Chapter 404: Cordyceps (2)
As soon as I laid eyes on the creature, an irrepressible cry burst from deep inside me — not unlike a desert spring suddenly gushing forth, or a volcanic eruption from the ocean floor.
It was almost reflexive.
‘Gyaaahhhh!’
But the creature looked pissed, so I could only cover my mouth and marvel internally.
‘No way. That’s definitely based on that one, isn’t it?’
The thing that suddenly appeared before us was a locust the size of a grown man’s forearm.
Its body shimmered in a mix of black and orange, and the texture of its wings resembled bark.
Between its black plating were vivid orange spots, and a crimson hump on its back practically shouted venomous, like it was proudly displaying a certification.
Just from its appearance, I could tell — this was a spirit beast. And a venomous one, at that.
One that, unmistakably, was based on an insect I knew well.
Which is exactly why I was overwhelmed — with awe, wonder, and sheer admiration.