Potential.
Even though Stingè was strong, he didn't have any magical ability that made him capable of seeing the future. In that aspect, he was just as clueless as the next guy... demon.
That was why when a bolt of black lightning came crashing down on him from a blind spot, he couldn't help but be surprised.
'A surprise attack? From where? Who?'
Stingè was shocked, but his years of battle experience made him react swiftly and accordingly.
'There doesn't seem to be a lot of power. Still...'
All this happened in a split second as Stingè and the Aether Beast exchanged world-shacking attacks.
It only took a moment for Stingè to make his mind up. He decided to tank the blow...
This decision didn't stem from arrogance. Instead, it was one that was rooted in his confidence. Confidence in his defensive abilities.
Especially in his transformed state...
'Even if I am injured, it can't be worse than what this foul creature is throwing at me.'