Chapter 120: The world tree is just a big tree (5)
“Kiiiiiek—!”
The Beast shrieked, drawn to the overwhelming life force emanating from Stale's burning flesh. In this moment, he was the most appetizing presence in the area—even more so than the World Tree sprouting just behind him.
It wasn’t that Stale’s life force surpassed the World Tree’s—physically or supernaturally, that was impossible. The sheer difference in the capacity to hold life force was astronomical. But the World Tree was, after all, a giant, immobile tree, and it wasn’t going anywhere. Stale, on the other hand, was alive, unpredictable, and could try to escape at any moment. It was as though the World Tree was an endless source of fruit, while Stale was an exotic, rare animal whose taste promised a unique experience.
“Come on, then.”
The Beast charged at Stale with blinding speed, an attack that would have seemed impossible for Flower’s body just moments ago.
But it didn’t matter. No matter how fast it was, nothing could outrun light.
“Hup—!”
Having spent his life fleeing from light, Stale effortlessly dodged the Beast’s attack. His body, now bolstered with unlimited life force granted by the scientist, was in exceptional condition. This gift enabled him to transcend his natural limits, constantly healing his sunburned skin under the merciless daylight.
Using that nearly boundless vitality, Stale lunged forward. Like a beam of light, he grabbed the Beast and tumbled to the ground with it. The force was so intense that even he struggled to control it.
Tumbling together like lovers—or pro wrestlers locked in a desperate grapple—they rolled across the ground, until Stale found himself on top of Flower. A flash of memory blurred his vision for a second, recalling a moment from just days prior.
The Beast seized on this brief opening. Holding his arms firmly, the Beast maneuvered in a way that made Stale chuckle inwardly. Based on his limited knowledge, it seemed like a poor attempt at an armbar, especially given her legs were positioned behind his back, which made such a move impossible.
But the Beast had something far more dangerous in mind. The arms it held disintegrated into dust, and the corrosive effect crept up toward his shoulders. Panicking, Stale abandoned his advantageous position, desperately pulling away from her.