Chapter 60: The Crimson Spire
When activating the runes carved into my body, I relied on the Foundational Rune - its tree pattern purified the red sun's chaotic energy, making it safer to use.
But for manipulating plants, to save pure red sun energy, I prefer to draw energy directly from the miniature red sun in my inner world. The raw, unpurified energy was more potent, though it tended to cause... interesting side effects.
I channeled power from my inner world into the vine, watching as it responded to the red sun essence. Perhaps a bit too enthusiastically - the metallic sheen Elder Molric had given it darkened to a blood-red color, and crimson veins spread through its surface like corruption. The whole thing began writhing like an excited snake.
I then sent the vine shooting forward, aiming to wrap around Kiran's legs. He reacted instantly, bone spikes erupting from his shins to intercept. The vine struck the bones with surprising force, actually managing to scratch the surface before being deflected.
"Interesting," Azure noted. "The elder's modifications alongside the miniature red sun’s energy seems to have given it enhanced cutting properties."
Kiran didn't wait for me to try again. He charged forward, pulling more bones from his body to use as weapons. Each extraction looked agonizing, but his crazed grin only widened.
I jumped back as I made the vine lash out again, this time aiming for his upper body. But bone plates materialized just in time, deflecting the strike.
"Your tricks won't work!" Kiran's voice had taken on a manic villainous edge. "I'll show you true power!"
He thrust both hands forward, and dozens of bone shards launched from his palms like arrows. I managed to dodge most of them, but several grazed my arms and legs, drawing blood.