When he was focused on an enemy, there was very little that could distract Ji. He had been born for this purpose and it was rare for him to be swayed. Not even the sound of Nevenka's shriek pulled his attention from the beast, its body thrashing against the vines that his wife had smartly thought to conjure from the earth. If nothing else, it slowed the creature down for long enough that Ji was able to approach and swing his sword once more.
Landing a hit to the beast's side, Ji fluidly slashed the air with all the grace his species was known for. It was almost like a dance, like his nightly routine, ornamental yet deadly. The sound of the creature's anger informed him of the success of the blow, another wound having appeared on its side.
Yet as he turned in an arch with the intention of another hit, the creature seized the opportunity to spring forth with a speed that the fae had not anticipated. Claws dug into his shoulders as he was knocked to the side, fae and beast hitting the ground hard. There was a struggle then, Ji's hands gripping his sword and using it to shield his body from the snapping jaws of the creature, which seemed intent on aiming for his face. Teeth clenched, Ji held firm as he brought his legs up, feet planting on the creature's underbelly and pushing in tandem with his arms.
Feeling the skin and muscles of his shoulder tear as he shoved the weight of the monster off him with its claws still embedded in him, Ji clenched his jaw tightly and rolled to one side. He was on his feet again a moment later, both hands gripping his sword hilt as the creature recovered and prepared for another attack.