Chapter 66: Abomination
The stone-plant monstrosity's six heads loomed above me, each one a unique fusion of granite and twisted vegetation. My makeshift shield of purple leaves wouldn't last more than a second against those massive jaws.
"Any suggestions?" I muttered internally, trying to ignore the burning pain in my side.
"Several," Azure replied. "Though none particularly promising. The creature appears to be a fusion of both earth and wood elements, likely one of Elder Molric's more... ambitious experiments."
"Ambitious is one word for it." I watched as the heads weaved back and forth. "Have you got a better reading on its energy levels?"
“Yes, it seems to fluctuate between Rank 1 and Rank 2."
My eyes narrowed at this information. A Pseudo Rank 2 then, or as some would say, half-step into the second rank.
The distinction was important - if this thing had been a true Rank 2, I wouldn't have even survived that first hit. The gap between a Pseudo Rank 2 and a true Rank 2 was like the difference between a pond and an ocean - both contained water, but only one could drown continents.
"Master, I…I don't know if we can beat it," Azure's tone held genuine concern.
I nodded slightly, keeping my eyes fixed on the monstrosity. "But I think we can survive long enough.”