Just as Xiao Fan briefly froze, the Boss ahead suddenly let out a low, deafening roar. An enormous claw burst out of the churning, dense black fog, trailing a howling gale that tore through the air as it slashed down at Xiao Fan with devastating force.
Xiao Fan's heart clenched. Without a moment's hesitation, he issued a mental command, ordering the Shield Puppet beside him to move across and block the attack.
The Shield Puppet abruptly raised its thick alloy shield to meet the enormous claw wreathed in black fog!
"BANG!!"
A deafening crash erupted, and a violent shock wave swept outward from the point of impact. Loose stones bounced off the ground, while the surrounding black fog churned and scattered under the tremendous force.
Weblike cracks spread across the rocky ground beneath the puppet's feet. Its heavy body sank slightly under the enormous pressure of the claw, and fine cracks rapidly spread across its shield.
The piercing screech of fracturing metal echoed through the hall. The puppet's body shuddered violently, its health bar plunged, and a glaring damage number popped up above its head.
‑4287.
A single blow had left the Shield Puppet critically low on health.
Xiao Fan felt an immense force surge back into his mind through his mental link with the puppet. His temples throbbed, and his chest tightened. Gritting his teeth, he poured all his mental strength into keeping the puppet's shield steady, not daring to retreat even an inch.
When its first strike failed, the Boss in the black fog let out another low growl. Its beastly eyes, hidden within the fog, glinted with a savage red light.
The enormous claw drew back slightly, then gathered dense dark energy once more. After charging its strength, it swept across with even greater speed,