"This thing is already much taller than the dragon, and its strength..."
Before he could finish, the serpent moved in an instant, compressing the air so violently that it created a sonic boom as it landed directly on Eryke.
Eryke's face paled, and he hastily tried to dodge.
But the attack was far too fast and devastating.
It struck him square in the back, sending him hurtling through the air and crashing into a distant tree before finally coming to a stop.
A plume of smoke rose, blurring his vision as he lay there, dazed.
Hiss. Hisss.
The serpent hissed, its voice venomous:
"Human, who sent you here?"
Coughing violently, Eryke forced himself to his feet, choking on the smoky dust that filled his lungs.
His back seared with pain, and it was no small torment.
"I've endured worse," Eryke muttered, his face remaining expressionless as he clenched his fist.
He tightened his grip on his sword, determination in his eyes.
