While attempting to distance myself from the Mournfoon's presence, I couldn't shake off the unsettling sensation that the merciless eyes of the (F+) Ilosphat were fixed upon me, seething with an intense desire for revenge.

Regrettably, against my better judgment, I dared to steal a glance behind me, only to be greeted by the sight of the (F+) Ilosphat locked in a fierce skirmish with Doervus. Yet, much to my vexation, it seemed that the wretched creature's attention was abruptly diverted to none other than yours truly. Oh joy, how flattering! Of course its eyes burned with a seething desire for revenge, as if I were its sole object of contempt. Yes, I acknowledged the transgressions I had committed against it, but my choices were few!

It forcefully pushed past the Eldriyssal deer and swiftly lunged into the trees, emanating a spectacular burst of seemingly overwhelming fury. Its venomous maw opened wide, poised to unleash a deadly stream of toxic fumes. I had to act quickly, for self-preservation demanded no less.

As I swiftly turned on my heels amidst the eerie and desolate tangle of tree branches, a plan formed within the recesses of my mind. I harnessed the profound potential of the abyssal particles residing within me. These unruly energies were tamed, transmuted into a singular attribute: [Lightning]. A surge of electrifying power surged through my very core, igniting every fiber of my being.

Summoning all my concentration, I molded this potent energy into a compacted sphere of sheer might. The [MereSphere] underwent a remarkable transformation, infused with the volatile essence of doom and electrifying intensity. Oh, now this was no ordinary orb! Behold! The birth of the fearsome [DoomZap MereSphere]! Brighter it grew, more volatile it became, a swirling storm of raw power poised to wreak havoc upon its target.

A snarl escaped my lips as my gaze met the furious advance of the (F+) Ilosphat. Ah, revel in your vengeance, you beast, for your fate is sealed.

With a savage yowl that echoed through the hallowed realm, I hurled the [DoomZap MereSphere] with all my might—a beacon of destructive potency hurtling through the stygian depths of the forested arena.

It streaked hurriedly towards its target with devastating purpose: colliding with the awestricken (F+) Ilosphat's malevolent form, triggering a cataclysmic explosion of crackling energy and searing heat. The aftermath engulfed the rainforest in a blinding cascade of power, causing it to tremble heavily within the clutches of an electrifying embrace.

Amidst the deafening roar of the explosion, with smoke and debris thickening the pungent air, I plugged my paws into my ringing ears. With grim delight, I beheld the sight of the now-impotent (F+) Ilosphat hurtling towards the ground, its shrieks of fury piercing the air like the wails of a fallen comet. Upon impact, the battered creature erupted into a sickly blaze of putrid green flames, engulfing its immediate vicinity in a treacherous firestorm—a stern warning to any foolhardy enough to venture close.

And so, they arrived.

In that nerve-racking moment, my gaze shifted, and I bore witness to the Mournfoons descending upon the vanquished (F+) Ilosphat without a care. The Mournfoons' spectral bodies emitted an eerie luminescence, casting a ghostly aura upon the desecrated scene. Their mournful cries blended with the sinuous crackling of the engulfing flames, weaving a haunting symphony that resonated throughout the scorched rainforest. It was a fortuitous turn of events, for these monsters would be better preoccupied with each other's malevolence.

A weary sigh escaped my lips, accompanied by the pounding of my heart—a potent concoction of adrenaline and triumph, preventing me from succumbing to the agony prickling throughout my body. Another deep breath filled my lungs, as the realization settled: by sheer happenstance, I emerged victorious against the (F+) Ilosphat! How splendid, at least for the present moment…

My attention then shifted to the ashen field, where I spotted the agile figure of the Doervus sprinting, weaving and leaping to find refuge within the burning zone below.

Returning my gaze upon the Mournfoons, my eyes lingered on their fluttering forms circling above the fallen (F+) Ilosphat like vultures drawn to a carrion feast. These contemptuous creatures, with their translucent colors and ghostly wings, hovered uncannily over the fallen (F+) Ilosphat. I couldn't tear my gaze away from the spectacle that unfolded before me. And then, an astonishing phenomenon revealed itself: the creatures were conjuring droplets of water, suspended effortlessly around their inflated forms. Indeed, droplets of water floated mystically in the air, encircling their bloated bodies—a truly extraordinary sight to behold.

Without delay, the Mournfoons unleashed a barrage of water pellets with a flap of their wings, aimlessly but purposefully directed at the flaming figure of the (F+) Ilosphat. It seemed as though their intention were twofold—to extinguish the engulfing flames and to inflict harm upon the creature.

Yet, despite their insistent efforts, it became glaringly obvious that the Mournfoons' attacks were nothing more than feeble attempts to dent the impenetrable exterior of the (F+) Ilosphat.

> [MOURNFOON] SKILL ANALYZED:

>

> Skill Name: Sorrow Shower

>

> Description: The Sorrow Shower is a unique ability possessed by the Mournfoon, enabling them to conjure droplets of water and unleash them as a barrage of water pellets.

>

> These pellets, infused with a melancholic energy, cascade down like a mournful rain, delivering both physical and emotional impact to any unfortunate souls caught in their path.

I eagerly absorbed this invaluable piece of information, my mind already weaving plans around the intel. However, I found it odd that the G.A.I.A. offered such insights sparingly, leaving me with an insatiable curiosity. Why does it choose to divulge information in such a selective manner? I couldn't help but wonder at the motives behind its selective sharing of knowledge...

A question for another time, perhaps… time was not a luxury I could afford.

Bounding forth from the charred confines of the trees, I swiftly made my way towards the Doervus. As I ran, the Mournfoons persisted in their relentless assault on the (F+) Ilosphat, their water-based abilities aimed at breaching its defenses. Wave after wave of water droplets cascaded forth, intended to dismantle the impervious fortress in the head scratching (F+) exterior of the Ilosphat. Their endeavors proved to be consistently futile, their efforts merely washing away into insignificance as the formidable Ilosphat thrashed about on the floor, unaffected by their onslaught.

A gasp involuntarily escaped my lips, aghast at the sight that unfolded before me. Rising from the ashes, the battered (F+) Ilosphat shook off their assault with disdainful ease, retaliating with a venomous barrage of projectiles. The Mournfoons scattered in disarray, sent spiraling away by the force of the Ilosphat's wrath, their feeble attempts at confrontation shattered in an instant.

Recuperating in an instant, the Mournfoons regrouped, their mournful cries reverberating through the rainforest. The air grew heavy with moisture as the balloon-bodied beasts unleashed a chilling wail, enveloping the surroundings in an eerie dampness.

Their lamenting dirge of despair weighed heavily upon me. Each step I took toward the Doervus felt like a burden, the atmosphere thickening with every passing moment. And as I observed the eldritch deer forging ahead, I realized it was not just I who was affected. The same encumbering effect took its toll on the Doervus as well. Truly, the abilities of these Mournfoons were as cumbersome as they were vexing!

Seemingly immune to the effects of their own mournful wails, the Mournfoons wasted no time in capitalizing on the activation of their encumbering technique. Descending upon us with swift swoops, their talons sliced through the air as they sought to impede our progress. By Yrstaf-jikoth's name, would they not leave us be! (This piece of wisdom was bestowed upon me by the Doervus.)

Swooping and darting from various angles, the Mournfoons launched their attacks. Though not as formidable as those of the (F+) Ilosphat, their assaults possessed the insidious potential to erode our strength, draining us with each chilling touch.

But I managed to resist, to some extent. Employing a combination of evasive maneuvers, quick rolls, and strategic use of cover, I fought back with well-timed thrusts of my spear to puncture the airborne adversaries. Frustratingly, the Mournfoons' dampening effect gnawed at the momentum of my strikes, reducing their potency to a discernible degree. Each connecting blow failed to fell even a single (Common) variant.

This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

Narrowing my eyes, I tapped into the power resonating within my vocal cords, channeling my energy into a different form of countermeasure. With a [Melodious Shout], I unleashed a shockwave of sound that disrupted the Mournfoons' assault. Their spectral bodies faltered, their movements momentarily thrown off balance.

Seizing the opportunity, the Doervus sprang into action, its electrified antlers crackling with renewed vigor. It charged through the weakened Mournfoons, its lightning-infused strikes leaving trails of crimson sparks in its wake. The surrealistic creatures dissipated into mist and particles, their mournful cries fading into silence.

I rushed to the feet of the Doervus, and glanced up to it, "Let's get out of here, while we have the chance!" I exclaimed with a flick of my tail. The Doervus simply nodded, and together we galloped through the blazing wreckage surrounding us.

Glancing back, I caught sight of the Mournfoons continuing to launch an assault on the weakened (F+) Ilosphat.

Some of the Mournfoons were eagerly trailing behind, and I growled as I watched their spectral bodies flickering with an eerie light as others swooped down from the skies, their movements resembling water ripples cascading through the air.

This time these beasts emitted a sound resembling a cough, a tangible mist was cast from their quivering forms.

Daringly ignoring this for the time being, I pressed on, forging a path through the lingering mist and dampened air.

We navigated through the charred remains of the rainforest, the echoes of our footsteps mingling with the distant, mournful cries of the balloon-like Eldriyssals. The path ahead was treacherous, but my spirit burned brighter than ever as relief overtook me. This was a chance to recover our energy. Just enough to fend back the Mournfoon, but there was zero. Zero chance that we were prepared to take on the (F+) Ilosphat, even in its diminished state.

Speaking of the ruthless (F+) Ilosphat. Its presence still loomed ominously behind us during our escape within the UvoSath forest's wicked embrace—blue, red, and green ferns blurring in our bolt for freedom—the (F+) Ilosphat and Mournfoon still hot on our heels.

However, I could tell. I shuddered. It was an incredulous terror as I couldn't shake the feeling that those merciless eyes of the Ilosphat remained fixated on me, seething with a burning desire for revenge.

And I couldn't blame it after our bout.

. . .

Continuing our escape, I couldn't help but think back to my time on Earth. Though, I had survived an apocalyptic world overrun with machines… this realm, this horrid dimension was a completely different kind of hell.

Monsters and creatures beyond my wildest imagination threatened my every step, and the power dynamics were unlike anything I had ever seen before. Yet, through it all—through it all I must not forget that I had one last chance.

I breathed, processing the circumstances that clouded my mind, despite weighing heavily on my shoulders, I had to shatter them now.

The burn of my injuries and the ache in my muscles were pushed aside as we ran.

Each step felt like it was an eternity, but we pressed on, toward an uncertain destination. To doom? More enemies? I had to hope for better. Things got to become better.

I glanced over to the Doervus who hurtled next to me. I was glad and grateful to have someone alongside me. I breathed. However, the (F+) Ilosphat remained a hot topic on my mind: The conversation I had with the reptilian creature.

But there was another question lingering within me, weighing heavier as a thought. Taking a deep breath, I decided to broach the subject cautiously.

"So, Doervus, I can't help but wonder... Have you ever crossed paths with it before?" I asked, trying my best to sound casual.

The Doervus cast me a knowing glance, their eyes brimming with caution, as if harboring a profound secret. Their voice, carrying a somber undertone, resounded with a deep rumble.

"Yes, indeed," the Doervus murmured, its words carrying a weight of sorrow. "The Ilosphat bear deep-seated grudges. Their essence rife with an intense animosity towards other Eldriyssals, even extending to members of my fallen herd..." The Doervus paused, the weight of painful memories lingering in the silence. "Members of my kin fell victim to the wrath of the Ilosphat. While it may not have been that specific Ilosphat that was responsible for the annihilation of my herd, it and others of its kind played a significant role in the downfall of my fellow Doervuses."

I felt a pang of sympathy for the Doervus and the tragedy it had endured. The devastation wrought by the (F+) Ilosphat must have been unimaginable. "Doervus, my stalwart companion, I share in your pain."

I lifted my gaze to meet the majestic creature, empathy gleaming in my eyes. I found myself lost in the depths of its sorrow. I understood, all too well. I knew what it felt like to be lost in the depths of such sorrow.

"Is there any insight into the origin of its animosity?" I pressed, my curiosity getting the better of me. I knew that time was a luxury we could ill afford, but I couldn't help but seek knowledge while I still drew breath.

The Doervus slowed its pace momentarily, a solemn expression crossing its features. "Legend has it that a bitter conflict arose between the Doom Deer and the Ilosphat eons ago. It was a battle for territory and scarce resources. The (E) Ilosphat yearned to perpetuate this feud, to expand its dominion—and my kind stood firmly in its path."

I listened intently, the weight of the story sinking deep within me. The Doervus's words painted a grim picture of the past.

E… The Doervus had said. E… The designation struck a chord, a fearful one at that.

"My brethren fought valiantly alongside me, but the Ilosphats were cunning and ruthless. They unleashed their venomous attacks upon us, decimating our numbers and leaving only a few dozen survivors..." The Doervus's voice trembled, its crimson eyes mirroring the pain of those harrowing memories.

"Dozens..." I mused, sensing that there was more to this tale. Yet, I lashed my fiery-tipped tail in self-restraint. Emotions, Aera! I scolded myself. The thirst for knowledge should not blind me to the very essence that fuels and empowers our adversaries—negative energies they were. It was best to tread lightly and refrain from prying further into the Doervus's past, at least for the time being.

Casting another glance at the resolute Doervus, I could see the fire burning in its eyes, an unyielding spirit that refused to be broken.

"I have sworn to avenge my late herd and family," the Doervus continued, its gaze fixed ahead as we maneuvered through the dense forest. "And now that the (F+) Ilosphat has resurfaced, I must confront it once more."

"Admirable," I responded, my tone measured. "However, pursuing the Ilosphat alone may not be worth the sacrifice if it means forfeiting your own life." I sighed. "The path of vengeance is treacherous, and it has the potential to consume one entirely." Even so, I respected the Doervus, it had chosen to bear the burden of its past and face its greatest nemesis head-on.

"We shall face the (F+) Ilosphat together," I declared, my eyes narrowing. "Allow me to lend my assistance in ending this cycle of revenge, in bringing justice to your late herd and family."

The Doervus solemnly nodded, remaining focused on weaving through the gnarled trees.

Suddenly, a loud screech pierced the air, causing both the Doervus and I to jump in surprise. As I looked up, my eyes widened at the terrifying sight of numerous shadows looming above us. It was none other than the infamous balloon-winged monsters: the Mournfoons.

We ran, my heart pounding, adrenaline coursing through my veins, as their ferocious onslaught never wavered. For each step we took, the rainforest's dense foliage seemed to conspire against us, slowing us down, tangling our every move.

The sound of our thundering footsteps echoed ominously, growing louder and clearer with every passing second. Our breaths came in ragged gasps, our muscles ached with exhaustion, but still, the Mournfoons pressed on, unyielding in their relentless pursuit. We desperately searched for an escape, our eyes darting to and fro, desperately clinging to any glimmer of hope. But in this treacherous labyrinth of trees and shadows, it seemed as if hope itself had abandoned us.

Every dodge, every leap, demanded all our strength, but our resolve matched that of our despondent pursuers.

As we turned a corner, our path was suddenly blocked by a violet waterfall of spectral energy, shimmering with an eerie blue glow.

Clutching onto the rushing currents were the grotesque forms of the Mournfoon, exhibiting the ability and expertise to conjure this waterfall-like barrier.

I felt a pang of frustration, realizing that the Mournfoon had devised this obstacle to ensnare us, as more of them swooped down from the edge of the precipice, joining the waterfall.

We were trapped.

However, we refused to be easily vanquished.

Harnessing the might of the [MereSphere], I channeled my energy into a concentrated pulse of explosive force.

With a resounding crack, the pulsating sphere of energy surged forth from my mouth, colliding with the spectral aqueous wall and the Mournfoon, obliterating them into countless fragments with a formidable impact.

The Doervus and I maneuvered through the field, our movements swift and forceful. I flung and retracted my Merecritt ears [MereEar Slash], each ear slicing through the air, directing them at any Mournfoons blockading our path.

One fell with a slicing strike. Others continued to make use of their airborne advantage.

The Mournfoon's spectral bodies fluttered around us, their eerie cries blending with the crackling flames and the approaching rumble of the (F+) Ilosphat's pursuit. Their projectiles, akin to water ripples, blasted through the air, creating mesmerizing yet dangerous obstacle.

With a cacophony of wailing and screaming, the Mournfoons let loose their water droplets and pellets, their wings flapping furiously as they unleashed a relentless barrage upon us.

We dodged and weaved, narrowly evading the projectiles that threatened to douse and dampen our spirit. The Mournfoons' attacks were drearily endless, their coordination impressive as they tried to overwhelm us with their numbers and synchronized assaults. But we were not defenseless.

Screaming, I released a piercing cry, a [Melodious Shout] that disrupted the Mournfoons' harmony. The sound-waves rippled through the air, disrupting their control over the water-like projectiles and momentarily disorienting them.

Using this opportunity, the Doervus unleashed its own electrical prowess. Bolts of lightning [Doom Zap] crackled from its antlers, striking the Mournfoons with precise accuracy. The electrified assaults disrupted their spectral forms, causing them to dissipate momentarily before reforming with displeasure.

Though outnumbered and outmatched, I knew we needed to make an attempt—any attempt was better than rolling over and accepting our defeat.