Chapter 29. Wolf Versus Draconian.
You need to focus, Master Gavin. There are enemy forces nearby. Veronica chastised him gently. She knew he tended to overthink at times and got lost in his mind. I swear it's like I'm on permanent baby-sitting duty.
Gavin's jaw dropped when he heard her warning and snarky remark. Are you really giving me crap at a time like this? His tone was indignation. He couldn't believe his AI partner was acting like an annoyed parent.
Yes, you are losing focus, and I always have to say your furry butt. Her reply was short and Gavin hated to admit but she was right.
Yes, that is two floor bosses I'd have lost if it wasn't for you. I'm sorry I've been relying on you so heavily. Gavin's words were sincere as he swept his gaze over the horizon, searching for the best way to approach the massive Draconian warriors.
She let out a sigh, an actual sigh as if she had a body to push air out from her lungs as she replied. It's fine. I have learned how hopeless, irresponsible, and most importantly, damn reckless you are. But that is what makes us a good team. My steady reasoning balances your stupidity.
Gavin smiled fondly, his cheeks lifted and flashed his canines at her reply. Damn right, partners?
Duh. Now, get ready. The first Draconian has noticed you and is lumbering this way.
Gavin turned his head and caught sight of the giant of a beast stalking his direction. No subterfuge. No trickery. Just running straight for him.
Even from this distance Gavin could appreciate the size of the warrior. I have a feeling that he is going to tower over me when he gets here. Gavin focused on his mana flow; his eyes glowed a vibrant red as he slammed his hands down on the ground focusing on harnessing earth magic.
Jagged spikes erupted in front of Gavin as they flowed like a tidal wave towards the Draconian. Let's see if that slows him down or anything.
Gavin watched closely as the spikes approached the warrior. The earth trembled as the spikes jumped from the ground. The enemy didn't stop or move out of the way. He continued his relentless charge and crashed through the stone spikes like they were made of paper. The stone shattered under his feet as he kept moving towards Gavin.
Well, that was expected I suppose. Gavin mused as he recalled Astrid's warning about magic not being effective.
As the Draconian grew closer Gavin was able to make out details about his appearance. He was covered in scales that shone with a red glow as it reflected the light of the sky. Besides being monstrously tall, he was broad shouldered and heavily muscled. Thick plate armor covered his body with spiked shoulder pauldrons.
In each hand was what would normally be a two-handed weapon. But with the strength of the Draconian, each was wielded in one hand without effort. One appeared to be a large double-bladed battle axe. The polished metal shone brightly against the sun and the plains. The other was a thick, impossibly heavy Warhammer.
In the cracks between his scales his skin glowed as if it was lit aflame. The air shimmered at his approach, the pounding of his feet on the plain like the sound of war drums.
Gavin swallowed, his mouth dry as he took a hesitant half step backwards before he caught himself. His heart raced as he watched the approaching beast. His palms were sweaty and the hair on his arms stood on end. Everything about the approaching warrior set his animal instincts off.
Gavin had been involved in several high-level battles so far. But this was a different league all together. None of the previous enemies gave off such murderous vibe and intent. What the hell? I don't retreat. I don't run. So why am I feeling this cold dread in my spine? Why do I want to flee from this monster?
Relax Gavin. You've overcome mighty foes already, you can do this too. Just remember your training and what you have learned. Veronica's reassurance managed to steady his heart rate as he nodded grimly.
The ground thundered as the Draconian came to a stop in front of him. He stood chest and shoulders above Gavin. Large and imposing with those weapons in his hands. The least he could do was to be winded after all that running, Gavin remarked as lifted his head to look at the beast in the eyes.
This was the first time that Gavin had to look up at someone in his were-wolf form since he learned to shift. He didn't like it. He narrowed his eyes on the hulking beast of a warrior.
Don't do it Gavin. Do not antagonize the beast. Veronica's warning came a moment too late as Gavin's desire for sarcastic wit won over.
"So, nice place you got here." Gavin remarked with a cocky grin as he took stock of the Draconian. Beautiful, polished scales covered his face. Gavin could see his mouth was filled with razor sharp teeth as the Draconian roared in laughter. His golden yellow eyes with narrow, slitted pupils cut through the haze. They were cold, predatory, and ancient.
"It's been centuries since one of your kind was last seen. I'm looking forward to skinning you and wearing your fur like a blanket." The Draconian's voice was a deep rumble. Gavin could barely make out the words as the warrior leaned in and invaded Gavin's personal space. He dared the wolf to do something stupid as he grinned in challenge.
The smell of the Draconian filled Gavin's senses. Ash, fire, sulfur. Pungent and strong. The stench was enough to make his snout twitch, and Gavin couldn't control the sneeze that came out, right into the Draconian's face.
You did that on purpose. Veronica chuckled as she watched on. The echo of her laughter filled Gavin's mind.
The warrior growled in anger as he backed away. He dropped the hammer and wiped his face. "That is so disgusting." The Draconian snarled as he glared at the wolf, only to realize the black wolf wasn't there anymore. A cloud of dust hung heavily in the air. The only sign of Gavin's movement. "Where did you run off to, wolf?" The Draconian shouted in fury as he looked around.
"I'm right here lizard boy." Gavin's whispered words filled the Draconian's ears as Gavin's shin connected with the back of his right knee. The force of the impact was enough to buckle the Draconian's knee, which caused him to drop down onto his other knee.
He growled out in frustration as he swung his axe blindly behind him, but Gavin was already clear. He jumped back the instant his leg made contact and dropped the massive warrior to his knee.
"Looks like what humans say is right, big, tall and dumb." Gavin's laughter filled his ears as the Draconian snarled in rage. He rose back to his feet as he searched around for the were-wolf.
"Quit running and fight with some honor, you coward!" The Draconian shouted in frustration as Gavin kept running circles around him.
I had a feeling he would be too slow, thank the gods that I put those extra points into speed. Gavin grinned as he continued his hit and run tactics. He would run in, kick out his legs and dart back out again before the warrior could respond. Under no circumstance can I win a battle of brute strength against him. I must be faster, smarter in this fight.
The warrior snarled out in fury, his face scrunched up as he was sent down to his knees once again. His bellow shook the air as he focused on his mana flow and a dark orange hue started to glow around his scales. Smoke started to flow from the corners of his mouth as he rose to his feet once more.
His eyes now burning orange as he inhaled deep and full. Then right as Gavin charged in again with a swipe at his legs, the Draconian warrior turned around and breathed a mouth full of sulfur and flame at Gavin.
The concentrated mix hit Gavin square in the face. It burned his eyes and blinded him to what was next.
Gavin watch out! Veronica's panic filled his mind a moment too late as the warrior swung with his massive hammer and smashed it into Gavin's ribs. The weight of the hammer felt like a freight train as it pressed against Gavin's side, and he could feel his ribs cracking under the weight before the force sent him flying over the plains.
Gavin spat out blood from the impact as he was sent hurling. He tumbled head over foot until he landed in a crumpled mess. Gavin struggled to breathe. Every time he tried to inhale, fire burned in his lungs and throat. He cursed himself at letting that strike land so cleanly.
Well shit. That didn't last very long. He complained as he held his busted side. I'm pretty sure that I just busted up some ribs. Gavin wheezed as his were-wolf healing skill kicked in. There was a static sting under his skin as his entire body itched suddenly.
The sensation was uncomfortable, but Gavin was able to breathe without coughing up blood on every inhale.
Damn. The Draconian's are monsters. It's no wonder that Ares is their patron god. Gavin glared at the beast as he considered his options.
Would you like to hear my suggestion now? Veronica's words gave Gavin hope, and he looked at the lumbering beast. He grinned like a maniac as he nodded.
Let's hear it, oh wise sage.