The creature had finally 'adapted'. Instead of leaping high with its claws, it barreled forward low, fangs bared, having already anticipated another roll.
But Renlo didn't roll.
He darted sharply to the left, slipping past the lunging maw. Gritting his teeth, he tightened his trembling right hand on the spear, steadied himself, and drove it forward with everything he had.
The tip pierced the creature's neck with a wet, meaty squelch. The beast spasmed once… then collapsed, lifeless.
Renlo yanked his spear out with shaky hands. A burst of black ichor sprayed from the wound, pooling across the floor.
He stood there, panting, wide eyed.
"I… I did it?" he muttered.
Even he couldn't believe it. He stared down at the dead creature, then at his bloodied arm, then at the shocked faces of the other youths.
And then it hit him.
"I did it! WOOAAAH!!" he screamed, his voice filled with excitement.
"That's enough, Renlo."
