Adam's fist, aligned for the killing blow, drove toward Derek's chest—Monarch's Pierce, concentrated into a single point of annihilation.
It struck true.
Derek's aura blazed, trying to absorb the impact, but Adam had adjusted. Void energy wrapped around the strike, eating through the crimson light, seeking flesh beneath. The fist connected with Derek's sternum—CRACK—and drove through, not quite piercing, but close enough. Ribs shattered. Flesh tore. Blood sprayed.
Derek's eyes bulged, agony twisting his features. But instead of falling, instead of screaming, he laughed. A wet, bloody sound that bubbled up from ruined lungs.
"Heh... heheh... you're strong," Derek gasped, his voice a ragged whisper of pain and triumph. "So damn strong. You should never have existed. The world will curse a monster like you."
Adam's eyes narrowed. "Say whatever you want. This is the end."
He pulled back his fist, preparing another strike—one that would finish it for good.
