"Sorry," Leo muttered as the beasts emerged. "Emergency situation. Your holidays are cancelled—but I promise a feast."
Neither Shyra nor Nyxa minded. This enemy was clearly no ordinary opponent.
As the mist dispersed, the beast was revealed.
A massive scorpion with reflective, diamond-like scales stood there, its drill-shaped stinger radiating lethal intent—enough to send chills down anyone’s spine.
Magic Scorpion (Intermediate 3-star) – Noble Bloodline
The man’s eyes narrowed as more beasts appeared.
"Singham. Go."
ROOOOAAARR!
A thunderous roar shook the forest as a monstrous lion materialized. Nearly ten meters tall, it rivaled the Treant in size. Its bright orange fur carried a metallic sheen, and its flame-like mane burned with majesty. Its fangs looked capable of biting through adamantium itself.
Even though Shyra shared its species, the difference was obvious.
Noble Lion (Peak 3-star) – Noble Bloodline
The lion’s slit pupils constricted and opened his maw facing up towards the sky and roared again—but this time, it was a mental assault.
Lily’s necklace flared bright blue—
Shatter!
Like glass breaking, it exploded. But it saved her to some extent as Miho collapsed instantly, unconscious. Lunaria and the damaged Treant flickered violently. Even Shyra and Nyxa staggered back under the crushing pressure.
The man smirked as he watched.
"Still want to fight?" he asked mockingly.
"If not, leave. Though..." His smile widened. "You won’t be getting any gold now."
Leo gritted his teeth.
"So mighty, huh?"
His form vanished.
"—?!" The man’s eyes widened.
Too late.
[Critical Strike]
Leo reappeared behind him and drove a devastating punch into his back.
He tried to react by turning his body, but was a bit late. The impact sent the man flying like a bullet through the dense forest, snapping trees one after another as he disappeared into the distance.
THAM! THAM! THAM!
He smashed through various obstacles and finally came to a halt. Leo did see that he had covered himself in that same orangish aura, reducing impact. But damages were there nonetheless.