Crystal Explosives

Before John could even slash his dagger at Merlin, the man's skin grew large crystal thorns that blocked him from proceeding with his attack. John had to use a powerful shock of air to push himself away from the old man, leaping back and landing on the ground with a thud.

"You're fast after all," John chuckled. "But how long will you last?"

John created clones of himself and surrounded Merlin with them. All the clones could move as they all ran around Merlin, trying to confuse the man.

"Is this all you got?" Merlin chuckled. "I could say that I'm fairly disappointed."

He raised his hand and threw the staff away. His hand glowed with a pale blue color and the light expanded to the rest of his body. John watched as the shape of Merlin's body changed from the petite old man to a taller, much leaner man.