Chapter 55: Devious

Alden sprinted toward the Dark Elf, intent on finishing this duel. He had already spent far too long in this fight alone. He needed to kill more Defiled. 

A hint of suppressed bloodlust escaped its seal.

Alden imbued himself with [Haste], his figure turning hazy within the thin mist. 

As if sensing his desire to end the fight quickly, the Dark Elf's grin widened. The corrupted creature followed his lead. It dashed forward swiftly, wishing to meet Alden in the middle. And converge they did. 

Alden circulated his mana and sent a burst to his feet, throwing a devastating punch. The Dark Elf nimbly evaded the strike, shifting its neck, before responding with a jab of its own. 

Alden dodged the blow, turning his torso to deliver a violent kick. The Dark Elf blocked with its forearm, thrusting its other palm into his chest. 

He immediately set up a [Shield].