The beast slowly rose to its feet, its entire body now enshrouded in searing black flames. As it began to grow in size, its form became a mass of fire, and it prepared to pounce. Rain watched with cold indifference, letting the creature make its move. Just as the beast lunged, another water mirror appeared in front of him. The creature, expecting only one spear, was caught off guard when sixteen bolts of water shot forward. It managed to dodge a few, but eight found their mark, forcing the monster to the ground.

Rain quickly advanced, summoning a water clone, and together they channeled Aqua Vortex around their staffs. They thrust forward simultaneously, double-impaling the creature. The vortexes dissipated, and the beast collapsed to the ground.

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[“Obsidian Blaze Leopard Slain. High Rune of Agility awarded. High Rune of Dexterity awarded.”]

Rain turned toward Tide's lifeless body, sorrow welling up inside him. His mistake had cost Tide his life—there had been no reason to hold back, but he had. Rain knelt beside his fallen comrade, grief and regret heavy in his heart. Tide hadn’t been with him long, but he was one of the few allies Rain had in this place. After a moment of silent reflection, Rain buried Tide and skinned the leopard, taking its fur for a project he had in mind.