ZHONG HUI knew he couldn't keep playing defense. Noctis was too fast and too slippery. If this kept up, the other would wear him down bit by bit. So, it's time to change tactics.
He waited, holding his mace low. Then he pretended to be off-balance. Just as expected, Noctis struck—materializing from a shadow behind him with daggers aimed at his back. But Zhong Hui was ready. He used [Brute Force], his muscles surging with temporary strength, and spun faster than Noctis anticipated. His mace crashed downward, forcing Noctis to abort his attack, and disappeared back into the shadow.
The elf reappeared near a cluster of glowing crystals, eyes narrowed. Zhong Hui didn't give him time to think. He used [Quake Slam] once again, slamming his mace into the ground. The shockwave shattered crystals, sending sharp shards flying. Noctis flipped backward, dodging most—but one grazed his cheek, drawing a thin line of blood.
