The second Reaper surged forward without pause, its claws hammering down in a relentless flurry, each strike a blur of deadly intent. Kael blocked the first two, Abyssal Fang singing with each clash, but the third clipped his side, slicing through his armor like paper.
Flesh tore, blood welling instantly, and Kael grunted, stumbling backward. His back slammed into the cavern wall, a burst of pain exploding through his ribs, stealing his breath.
The third Wyrmkin dove toward him, all claws and primal rage, its eyes glowing with hunger. Kael rolled aside just in time, the beast crashing into the stone where he'd stood, the floor splintering under the impact.
He rose, wincing, blood soaking the left side of his robes, a crimson tide that marked his every step. Pain clawed at him, but he didn't back down. He *couldn't*.
