Time resumed, and Jack released the accumulated lightning in the same instant, the bolt crossing the minimal distance toward where his slowed perception had shown the serpent would be.
The electricity struck scales and....
Nothing.
The Phase-Winder's enhanced durability shrugged off the attack like rain hitting stone; the creature's biology apparently evolved to withstand far more punishment than a single lightning bolt could deliver.
Its charge continued uninterrupted, jaws snapping shut on empty air as Jack activated Lightning Steps to dodge clear of the strike.
But he'd landed a hit.
The first contact with a creature that had been untouchable moments ago.
The damage was negligible, but it proved the Phase-Winder could be struck during the brief windows when Abyssal Step let him track its movement.
He just needed more power. More force behind each strike to overcome the serpent's enhanced resistance.
