The air tore open behind Damon as Nara shadow-stepped mid-charge, appearing at Damon's flank with a dagger already angled for Damon's heart.
The blade never reached him. Damon didn't dodge. He didn't parry. Nara's dagger met Damon's palm and stopped as if it had struck a mountain.
Nara's eyes widened, but he didn't hesitate. Shadow blades erupted from the ground, slashing upward like a swarm of claws. The ground darkened beneath Damon as ten shadow spears burst forth.
BOOM.
A shockwave of blood essence erupted from him in a perfect circle. The shadow blades disintegrated instantly. The ground trembled. Nara's body jolted backward as he couldn't withstand the sheer intensity of the attack.
"You again," Damon said quietly, turning his head slightly toward Nara. "Still alive? That's disappointing. I guess my poison was indeed weaker back then. Did you try the new brew yet?"
