Chapter 2372 - ESM 41

Odd Grad, having evaded the reinforced 'Watcher of Fear,' did not attack us.

He merely kept his distance, staying alert.

Before the evasion, he had shown an air of arrogance, but now, that was entirely gone. He was extremely wary of us—no, of me.

My wing movements, the angle of my head, the auxiliary organs swaying gently in the wind, and even the tentacles of the glowing monster in shades of purple and green.

'I don't understand.'

His gaze was fixed on the monster's tentacles, as if he knew they posed a threat to him.

'Black Gallagons don't possess reconnaissance-related abilities.'

Gallagons don't have characteristics like 'clairvoyance', which gathers surrounding information to detect entities beneath the ground or behind walls, or 'insight', which analyzes the opponent's equipment or traits based on their appearance. Not even the Red Gallagons, which appear only in events, have such abilities.

Gallagons are perfect creatures, capable of surviving even in space with their robust physical strength, powerful psychic abilities, long lifespans, and social nature that allows them to hunt in packs with their kind. There's no need for them to have reconnaissance-related abilities.

'But that's uncertain.'

Even Adhai, after all, had shown a different side compared to ordinary Gallagons. Odd Grad might also not be a typical Black Gallagon.

'Let's try using insight.'

In truth, when we went to find the Helside Hornet, I did try using insight on Adhai once. It didn't provide any useful information, so it wasn't much help.

There's a high chance that no new information will come from this one either, but there's nothing to lose by trying. I flapped my wings, approaching it.

[ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZ (I'm going to get closer to it. Help me.)]

｢Sure.｣

Though I had planned to use the coordinated attack of Abyssal Hue and Number 26 as a trump card, the situation had already escalated. Number 26, who had been moving cautiously to conceal its power, no longer needed to hold back.

I struck the air hard with my wings, propelling myself forward. As the distance between us narrowed, Odd Grad's horns began to glow a vibrant purple.

From far above my head, I heard the growling sound of a tiger. It was the sign that a psychic storm, influenced by the 'Maelstrom', was about to be unleashed.

Purple lightning bolts cascaded behind me, and a tornado over 100 meters in diameter blocked my path ahead.

The tornado sucked in the air with such force that my flight speed suddenly dropped. In that brief moment, just as the psychic lightning was about to strike me, Number 26 intervened.

｢Ugh!｣

Have you ever seen a lightning bolt frozen in mid-air? What you could only see in a photograph was now happening right above my back.

I could feel it through my auxiliary organs. Thousands—no, an uncountable number—of threads shot out from Number 26's body, grabbing hold of the lightning. The psychic power, now immobilized, gathered at a single point in the air, directed by his will.

｢!｣

Odd Grad, who had cast the Maelstrom, tried to regain control of the lightning too late. The psychic power that Number 26 had seized had already transformed into a purple arrow aimed at its life.

Like an arrow shot by a god to slay an evil dragon, the psychic power sliced through the dark clouds. Failing to maintain control, Odd Grad flapped its wings frantically, dodging out of the way. The arrow changed course to target him, but his erratic movements made him difficult to hit.

｢Big one, I'm exhausted. I can't keep this up much longer.｣

[ZZZ (It's okay.)]

Thanks to its efforts, I was able to close in on the creature without any hindrance.

[ZZZZ ZZZ (Help Adhai.)]

｢Okay.｣

Just then, the small-bodied White Gallagon, Adhai, was fiercely attacking Odd Grad at close range. Number 26 used its psychic power to support Adhai's energy blasts.

｢You wretched creatures!｣

Odd Grad, with a wave of irritated psychic thoughts, began unleashing a barrage of psychic breaths. As Adhai dodged the high-speed beams with evasive manoeuvres, I activated insight.

｢Name: Odd Grad

Species: Black Gallagon

Status: Enhanced (Dragon's Power, ■■■ ■■■)

Abilities: Hyper-Acceleration, Psychic Breath, Dragon's Heart, and many more…｣

'I see…'

Confirming the information through insight, I activated my own psychic breath. Unlike the usual purple glow, a bizarre mix of green, purple, and various other colors swirled around my body.

This was a psychic breath enhanced by Abyssal Hue. The devastating bubble of unending hunger formed at the tip of my tentacle.

The bubble-like breath flew towards him, aiming to engulf him. As soon as he saw the bubble, Odd Grad, which had been targeting Adhai, swiftly retreated.

'He noticed again…'

Odd Grad's retreat gave me a brief moment to recall the newly obtained information.

'He has a special ability.'

This was evident from his 'status'. In addition to the 'Dragon's Power', there was another enhancement effect.

All Gallagons stronger than Black Gallagons possess the unique ability 'Dragon's Heart.' When an ordinary player has Dragon's Heart, they gain the enhancement known as Dragonification. For Gallagons, it results in the enhancement known as Dragon's Power.

The issue lies in the enhancement effect following Dragon's Power. A typical Black Gallagon should only possess Dragon's Power, but this one had two enhancement effects.

It's highly likely that this additional enhancement effect is related to the mysterious ability.

Unfortunately, insight did not reveal all of his abilities. Insight randomly shows an opponent's equipment, skills, and traits rather than displaying everything.

It would be ideal to get closer and use insight again, but that doesn't seem feasible. Having narrowly evaded my attacks twice, he was now extremely wary of me. Being a clever creature, he won't allow me to approach it again.

'Maybe it's fortunate that he's being passive.'

I don't know how Odd Grad figured out my abilities, but because of that, his movements were restricted. If he had been more aggressive, this fight would have been much harder.

'I need to change my strategy.'

I sent a brief wave to Adhai. Although she hesitated and seemed flustered upon receiving it, when I sent a stronger wave, she eventually agreed.

｢Big One｣ ｢Body｣ ｢Be careful｣

With those words, she flew off in the opposite direction.

Odd Grad, whether Adhai left or not, kept his focus solely on me. He knew that even if Adhai attacked, she wouldn't be able to cause any significant damage.

'He thinks the fight will end easily if he just takes me down.'

For him, that's a perfectly rational judgement. Of course, I expected him to think that way, which is why I acted accordingly.

Then, the battle with him resumed. Thanks to Number 26, he adjusted the Maelstrom's range so that lightning wouldn't strike within his domain.

Instead, he increased the number of tornadoes descending from the clouds to disrupt my movement. His intent was clear: to keep his distance and wear me down gradually.

As expected, he kept as much distance as possible while unleashing his breath attacks.

Although Number 26 had once neutralized the heat rays of Ham Ort, it couldn't control Odd Grad's breath. So, instead, it slightly altered the trajectory of the breath attacks to make them miss, assisting me in that way.

'That alone is a huge help.'

In truth, I had one trump card up my sleeve.

If Odd Grad hadn't been so much stronger than I anticipated, or if he had been as dumb as the Black Gallagons I knew, I would have used this strategy earlier.

There's a trait I acquired after capturing the Mother of the Sky—a fusion physical trait that combines with the existing 'Synthetized Organs' physical trait I already possessed.

[Mimicry Organs: Inherits and enhances the effects of Synthesized Organs. When repeatedly subjected to energy-based attacks, this trait mimics the properties of the energy and reflects them onto the body.]

[Note: Originality isn't what matters in nature. What matters is how you survive.]

'Mimicry Organs' is similar to, yet different from, the 'Metal Absorption' trait, which allows one to consume metal and reflect its properties onto the body. As the description suggests, Mimicry Organs mimics the energy attacks of an enemy, providing resistance to that specific type of energy.

For example, if I were repeatedly attacked with a plasma launcher, the Mimicry Organs effect would activate, significantly increasing my defense against plasma-based attacks—to the point where even a shard of my scales couldn't be broken by a plasma weapon.

This trait greatly enhances an Amorph's survivability, but it comes with a drawback.

You can't gain resistance to another type of energy while already having resistance to one kind. For instance, if I'm immune to plasma, I can't simultaneously become immune to psychic power. I'd have to wait for the existing immunity to fade before acquiring resistance to psychic power.

'That's why Cult Players used to switch between various types of weapons.'

Of course, in my current situation, this isn't a major drawback. Gallagons mainly attack with psychic power.

The problem is that in order to gain the resistance effect from Mimicry Organs, I need to be continuously hit by the enemy's attacks.

When facing an enemy like Odd Grad, whose attacks my body can't withstand, it's hard to benefit from this trait. I'd be dead before the Mimicry Organs could even activate.

'If the plan hadn't gone awry, I could have made proper use of it.'

Originally, I intended to gain the resistance effect of Mimicry Organs during the hunt for the White Gallagon. I could easily endure their psychic breaths.

'I should have prepared for this in advance.'

With Adhai and Number 26 around, I could have activated Mimicry Organs, albeit slowly, but I was complacent. This situation arose because I didn't anticipate that it would attack so quickly.

'…Regret can wait.'

I curled my body and spun, using my winged arms to shield myself. A heat ray narrowly missed the surface of my wings by a hair's breadth.

'As expected, this won't work.'

I considered letting the breath hit me to activate Mimicry Organs, but that's not going to happen. That dark purple heat ray isn't something I can just block with my body.

'I can't take risks without knowing his abilities.'

Whether I use Mimicry Organs or some other method, I first need to figure out his abilities to devise an effective countermeasure.

'It's unlikely that he can read information.'

Upon reconsideration, it seems improbable that he could be aware of the Abyssal Hue's effect, which even players don't know.

'That leaves only one possibility.'

A power to sense danger in advance.

Just like my 'Predator Sense', he might be able to analyze his surroundings and produce miracles akin to foresight.

'This seems the most likely.'

He moved in advance, reacting to my plans without receiving any reports. Moreover, out of the twelve White Gallagons, he came to assist the exact one I was targeting. Actions like these would only be possible if he had knowledge of the future.

However, there's a lingering doubt. To my knowledge, there's no ability that can see the future on such a broad scale. Even my Predator Sense only warns me of imminent deadly threats.

If he could perfectly foresee the future, there would be no way for me to win.

'No, that can't be it.'

If he had such an ability, he would have killed me long ago. There were plenty of opportunities, like when I first arrived on this planet or when I was weakened after my battle with Jason.

The reason he didn't act then is simple.

'There's a limit to his ability to see the future.'

The crucial point is figuring out what those limitations are. Only by understanding them can I find a way to defeat him.

'I'll have to start figuring that out now.'

And the ones who will assist me in this experiment are coming up here.

｢Black kin｣ ｢Support｣

Two Gallagons, one large and one small, with white scales, were following behind me—Adhai and Nel Germa.

It seems like he thinks I'm acting as bait while Adhai escapes, but that's not the case.

She only pretended to retreat and then circled around to assist Nel Germa. Thanks to that, the two of them were able to quickly take down the White Gallagon with broken wings and join me up here.

Odd Grad glared at us coldly.

｢Nel Germa｣ ｢Did you kill Jer Garuda?｣

｢Yes.｣

｢Odd Grad's mate｣ ｢What made you betray?｣

｢Ham Ort｣ ｢Told me｣ ｢Odd Grad｣ ｢Liar｣ ｢Tyrant｣ ｢Abandoned weak kin｣ ｢Killed them｣ ｢Agreed｣ ｢Impossible｣

Odd Grad fell silent in response to Nel Germa's rebuttal.

After a brief pause, it transmitted its thoughts.

｢Unfortunate｣ ｢A rebel who does not repent｣ ｢Only death awaits｣

｢Nel Germa｣ ｢Will not die｣ ｢The liar Odd Grad will die｣

｢The great Odd Grad｣ ｢Will not die｣

After saying this, he shifted his gaze from Nel Germa to me. The wariness that had filled his eyes moments ago was replaced with a completely different emotion.

'Mockery?'

｢The great Odd Grad never retreats｣ ｢No matter how strong the enemy｣

Though the situation hardly seemed one for confidence, he was clearly mocking me.

In that instant, it felt like lightning struck my mind.

As soon as I realized what was happening, Adhai and Nel Germa urgently transmitted their thoughts to me.

｢Great Elder｣ ｢Over there｣ ｢Kin｣ ｢I can feel them!｣

｢White kin｣ ｢Approaching｣

Although I couldn't see them yet, it was clear that his group was heading this way.

'Maelstrom! He used that to call his allies!'

There aren't many beings on this planet capable of causing such localized weather anomalies.

With the exception of the Black Dragon Odd Grad standing before me,

It was true that he was wary of my attack, but he also had a hidden plan.

｢The mighty Odd Grad｣ ｢Formidable foe｣ ｢Dangerous｣ ｢I have defeated them all｣

He sends out a triumphant psychic wave. Despite his words, it was clear that he intended to stall for time until his kin arrived.

'Don't make me laugh.'

Those words about defeating all formidable foes and dangers apply to me as well.

I, too, have overcome countless formidable foes and dangers to get this far.

'Don't think you're the only one who can call for allies.'

This time is no different.

——————

As soon as Odd Grad sneered at me, he immediately retreated. Despite his triumphant demeanour, he flew off in the direction where his kin were coming from.

'He doesn't want to leave any risk behind'.

He's the type that doesn't shy away from showing his ugly side to win. The claim that he has overcome every trial doesn't seem to be an empty boast.

The number of Gallagons sensed by my auxiliary organs keeps increasing. Most of the ones from the nest must have rushed out. Winning under these conditions is nearly impossible.

'I need to change my strategy'.

To be honest, killing Odd Grad here doesn't seem feasible. He has a crisis detection ability that surpasses my 'Predator Sense'. Gaining information through combat would be nice, but given our absolute disadvantage, that method is out of reach.

So, there's only one option left for me.

'I need to retreat and regroup'.

However, I have no intention of fleeing helplessly as he desires.

'I'll destroy as many of his weapons as possible right here'.

For instance, the approaching minions. If I can reduce the number of those Gallagons, it'll make it much easier when I face Odd Grad again.

'For that, I need allies'.

To reduce their numbers while evading his foresight, I have no other choice.

The 'Predator Sense' collects and calculates various surrounding factors to project the 'most likely future'. I don't know exactly how his crisis detection works, but if it's similar to mine, then the more unfavorable variables for him, the better for me.

And those unfavorable variables are ultimately my abilities and my allies.

'At the very least, I need to call PS-111'.

It can pilot the cruiser, which would be a huge help in getting us out of here.

The question is how to summon it here....

'I have just the thing'.

Just as he called his allies with 'Maelstrom', I too have the power to cause weather disturbances—the Divine Spectre, which twists the atmosphere and shatters the sky.

'PS-111 will recognize my signal.'

It's stationed on the cruiser and would have noticed the oddities in the sky caused by Odd Grad's Maelstrom. If I use the 'Divine Spectre' here, it will understand my peril and move immediately.

I raised my head toward the direction Odd Grad had retreated, where his forces were coming from.

With my will, the powers spread throughout my body began to surge. As a result, my black carapace and scales turned gold. The golden wave started from the tip of my tail's pincers, the ends of my fingers, and the edges of my fully spread wings, flowing into my chest.

Under the tumultuous sky, filled with countless whirlwinds, my body shone brilliantly.

I didn't need to think to know that Odd Grad would avoid my attack. But his incoming Gallagons were a different story.

To inflict proper damage on them, I gathered more energy than usual.

It had been a long time since I gathered this much energy, not since the battle with the Imperial Carrier. The firepower was about one-tenth of that time.

Of course, that didn't mean it was weak by any means. On this planet, nothing but the Mother of the Sky could survive this attack.

Having finished all my preparations, I opened my mouth. My upper jaw rose, and my lower jaw split open wide. Like a snake swallowing its prey, my mouth opened to its limit.

And then, the energy gathered in my chest burst forth like an erupting volcano, unleashing the Divine Spectre. True to its name, the Brain God's Lightning shot out from my mouth.

Like the chariot that drives the sun across the sky in ancient myths, the golden beam tore through the atmosphere.

Whirlwinds, lightning, snowstorms followed in its wake. An immense thunderous roar, unmatched by any natural phenomenon, shook the planet's atmosphere.

Even Adhai and Nel Germa, who lacked ears, shuddered at the supernatural vibrations caused by my divine power.

Odd Grad, sensing the danger, abruptly dodged as he was retreating. The Divine Spectre passed beyond Odd Grad and stretched far beyond the horizon.

Golden webs spread across the black clouds that covered the planet's atmosphere due to the power of the Divine Spectre.

As expected, the Gallagons couldn't evade the invisible attack in time. I deactivated the translucent text box that appeared in front of me and spread my wings wide.

[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZZ (PS-111 will come. We just need to hold out until then.)]

｢Yes! I'll punish those bad guys for messing with the little ones!｣

｢Black kin｣ ｢Strong｣ ｢Acknowledged｣ ｢Order｣ ｢Obey｣

｢Elder｣ ｢Awesome｣

Adhai seemed pleased as Nel Germa's thought waves became more respectful. Just moments ago, both had been terrified, but now there was no trace of fear. The thought of being near a being with transcendent power had given them courage.

'Thank goodness'.

Flying ahead of them, I checked the energy remaining in my body.

I had used far more energy than usual, but I still had reserves. It was thanks to the 'Berserker Synapse', which helped me manage my internal energy efficiently.

'I can use it two more times'.

I could fire more if I weakened the power, but I have no intention of doing that.

As I sped forward, the enemies came into view.

Seven large White Gallagons, nine relatively small and lean White Gallagons, and fifteen Green Gallagons. Behind them was the Black Gallagon, Odd Grad.

They were communicating with each other through thought waves. I couldn't tell what they were saying, but one thing was clear.

The Green Gallagons and the smaller White Gallagons were frightened. They had just seen their kin turned to ash in midair.

'If it weren't for their leader, they would have retreated…'.

One of the large White Gallagons whipped a nearby Green Gallagon with its tail. The other Gallagons reluctantly prepared for battle.

'So, those must be Odd Grad's chosen ones'.

They had indeed been nurtured well under Odd Grad's favor. Judging by the psychic power emanating from them, they weren't as strong as Ham Ort, but they were far more powerful than the average White Gallagon.

'I should target those seven if possible'.

With my targets in mind, I charged toward the cluster of enemies. Following Odd Grad's command, the Gallagons unleashed their Psychic Breaths in unison.

Dozens of purple beams shot towards me.

These were attacks made of destructive psychic power. I adjusted the angle of my wings, weaving through the onslaught of breaths. Of course, even I couldn't dodge them all, and some of the attacks struck my scales and carapace.

｢Pain Reduction Activated!｣

Each time, a text box appeared, and the heat beams reflected by my psychic repulsion armor bounced off into the clouds.

A dull pain throbbed from the hit areas, but I paid it no mind. To gain the benefit of the 'Mimicry Organ', I needed to take their attacks head-on.

My current task was to get hit just enough to avoid critical injuries or death while still fighting. While engaging the enemies, I also had to calculate the cumulative damage to my body.

'This is when the Amorph's unique hyper-senses really come in handy'.

If I had to keep track of everything, my head would have exploded before the battle even started.

Dodging what needed dodging and enduring what couldn't be avoided, I continued my advance. Behind me were Adhai and Nel Germa, using me as a shield and closely following.

No matter how fast Adhai and Nel Germa were, they couldn't dodge all the breaths fired by the dozens of Gallagons. So it was only natural for them to hide behind me, as I was bigger and had superior defenses.

Once I judged that the distance had been sufficiently closed,

With Odd Grad's group ahead of me, I prepared to unleash a Psychic Breath of my own. But this time, it was the Abyssal Hue version.

The tendrils of the creature dangling from the back of my head and neck writhed ominously. Seeing this, Odd Grad quickly sent out a thought wave.

｢Be careful!｣

Odd Grad's chosen ones retreated swiftly, but the other Gallagons were slower to react. I unleashed my enhanced psychic breath towards them.

The bubbles of destruction that dripped from the ends of my tendrils moved toward their targets, ready to consume them. Though these bubbles were minuscule compared to the Gallagons, their power was not to be underestimated.

One unsuspecting Gallagon learned this the hard way. The Green Gallagon, too busy firing its heat rays at me to move, was startled the moment a bubble touched its tail.

In an instant, the small bubble engulfed the tail like dye spreading in water, creeping up to consume its lower body.

Gallagons cannot scream due to their unique mouth structure. Instead, the thought waves of pain it emitted echoed through the air.

I charged at the Gallagon, which was still being dissolved by the bubble. With my lower jaw wide open, I aimed for the neck close to its head. The searing pain of its entire lower body melting rendered the creature unable to react to my attack.

I clamped down on the thin neck of the Gallagon with my jaws and yanked hard. With a sound of bones snapping and flesh tearing, the creature's head came off completely.

As its unpleasant thought waves, like nails scraping metal, abruptly ceased, the headless Gallagon's corpse plummeted to the ground.

Satisfied with the result, I called out to Number 26.

[ZZZ (Do your thing.)]

｢Sure!｣

Number 26 waved its tendrils like a conductor, and the bubbles that had been devouring Gallagon's corpse rose into the air. The bubbles then hurled themselves at the other Gallagons.

One of the bubbles controlled by Number 26 engulfed a sluggish Gallagon. Just as I had done before, I ended its suffering.

｢Everyone scatter!｣

Odd Grad commanded, and the Gallagons quickly spread out. With their distance widened, the coordinated psychic breath attacks with Number 26 had come to an end.

'Could've taken down more of them. Shame'.

I swallowed the Gallagon's head in one gulp. If it weren't for the current situation, I would have savored it, but there was no time for that.

With his subordinates retreating, Odd Grad launched another attack. A powerful, dark purple breath, stronger than anyone else's, came hurtling toward me. I beat my wings and soared upwards to evade it, heading towards his underlings.

'This way, he won't be able to attack…what?!'

Despite the risk of hitting his own underlings, Odd Grad fired his breath without hesitation. The psychic-powered blast just missed my tail. However, a young White Gallagon behind me was struck by Odd Grad's breath, leaving a hole in its wing.

｢Great Odd Grad!｣｢Young kin｣｢In danger!｣

｢Black traitor｣｢More dangerous｣｢Sacrifice｣｢Necessary｣

One of the chosen ones hurriedly sent a thought wave to his leader, but it had no effect. I grabbed the plummeting White Gallagon with the hole in its wing and bit its head. The creature, which had been struggling in resistance, ceased all movement as its head was crushed.

At that moment, an unexpected message appeared.

[Predation Effect Activated!]

'What? Let's check it quickly!'

Normally, I'd be thrilled at such a lucky break, but this was a battle. I quickly scanned the details and then called out to Adhai.

[ZZZZ (Adhai).]

｢Acknowledged.｣

Adhai, who had been fighting alongside Nel Germa against the other Gallagons, shot toward me like a bolt of white lightning.

For Adhai to grow, she needed to consume a White Gallagon. But in the current situation, devouring a whole one was nearly impossible.

'Not sure if sharing it will work…'

Given the paradox of 'Ship of Theseus', it's likely that it won't, but this is the only option we have right now.

Grabbing Adhai and the White Gallagon's corpse, I leaped into a nearby waterspout.

The violent vortex would obliterate an unprotected human in an instant, but for me, with a body tougher than a ship's hull, it posed no threat.

[ZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZ (I'll shield you, so take this.)]

｢You insignificant creature!｣｢How dare you!｣

As I sought refuge within the waterspout, attempting to feed Adhai the Gallagon's corpse, Odd Grad's furious thought waves penetrated the storm, accompanied by an overwhelming surge of energy rapidly closing in on us.

Adhai and I quickly dodged, just in time to avoid the breath attack that obliterated the Gallagon's remains I had been holding.

'So, he knows'.

It was clear that Odd Grad was aware of the secret behind Adhai's growth. The fact that he reacted so violently showed how much it feared this.

'He fears Adhai's growth…'

This was vital information, and I made sure to remember it as I shielded Adhai and exited the waterspout. The moment we emerged, a halo of purple light greeted us.

｢Great Elder｣｢Are you okay?｣

[ZZZ ZZZZZ (I'm fine. Don't worry.)]

Adhai, noticing the shattered scales and carapace on my body from the enemy attacks, was concerned.

To be honest, it hurt a lot but I had to endure it.

'We're almost there'.

The silver lining was that the pain was gradually diminishing with each hit, a sign that the 'Mimicry Organ' immunity system was kicking in.

As I closed the distance with the nearby Gallagons, enduring the heat rays, the creatures retreated the moment I got too close.

Seizing the opportunity, I released Adhai and expelled a fungal mass into the air. The green, sticky clump began to defy gravity, propelled toward its target by Number 26's psychic power.

The target was one of the larger White Gallagon companions.

It attempted to retreat, but Number 26 was faster. The flying fungus exploded like a claymore, dousing its wings in acidic spores.

The once-white wings were quickly stained red as the acid did its work. The Gallagon retaliated with a burst of purple lightning, burning away the fungus.

A decent countermeasure, but it made a crucial mistake—it failed to prioritize the immediate threat before it.

It noticed me only at the last moment, firing a psychic breath as I swung my clawed tail. Some of the psychic breath I absorbed reflected back, striking the Gallagon's body.

The White Gallagon was momentarily stunned, confused by what had happened, but my natural flail was already on its way to its abdomen.

Just as the clawed tail was about to strike, a massive black dragon materialized above me.

｢Die!｣

Odd Grad had used its companion as bait, luring me in for a devastating blow. He smashed his heavy forelimbs down on my head.

[Pain Nullification Activated!]

Even in his aged state, Odd Grad's power was immense—nearly equal to an Ice Horror's charge. The force nearly broke my neck.

I pulled back, using the Gaze of Terror on Odd Grad. There was no time to add the Abyssal hue, though.

For a brief moment, Odd Grad's eyes clouded over before clearing again. It had been affected, but as a Black Gallagon with immense psychic resistance, he quickly shook off the effect.

Then, images flooded my vision—my Predator Sense was triggering a warning of impending death.

｢Insignificant wretch｣｢Tricks｣｢Won't work｣

Odd Grad unleashed another psychic breath. Thanks to Predator Sense, I detected the attack and ducked, narrowly avoiding death.

'Ugh!'

[Pain Nullification Activated!]

The proximity was too close; although I survived, I couldn't escape injury. The dark purple breath obliterated the lower portion of my tail, leaving nothing but a clean stump where my clawed tail once was.

｢Weak creature｣｢This will be your end｣

Odd Grad's tendrils darkened into a deep shade of black-purple, gathering power for a final, devastating attack. It was too late to dodge.

I sensed Number 26's energy reaching out in desperation. Despite its impressive abilities, there was no way it could shield me from such an overwhelming force at this close range.

｢Great Elder!｣

Adhai, who had spotted my peril from afar, raced to my aid, only to be intercepted by another Gallagon.

Time seemed to slow as Odd Grad's tendrils coiled tighter, focusing immense power. The moment of attack was imminent.

But just as Odd Grad was about to unleash his deadly strike, a blinding light appeared from the opposite side of his head.

'The sun? No, that's not…'

This planet, like many others with life, has a star. But that light wasn't the sun—it was too close, too sudden.

I recognized the energy; it was familiar to me and the Gallagons, akin to psychic power but mixed with strange impurities.

I knew what it was.

Odd Grad, blinded by the thrill of killing me, realized the danger too late.

｢What…?｣

As he turned his head, I quickly folded my wings and dropped below. Less than a second later, a massive explosion erupted above me.

As I fell towards the ground, I caught sight of a familiar craft.

"We have arrived to provide support, responding to Sub-Controller 'Amorph's' signal".

｢Wow! the friend has come!｣

The broadcast, emanating from the ivory-colored, diamond-shaped cruiser, belonged to a being both Number 26 and I knew well.

The mutant Screamer, PS-111, developed by Star Union.

It had followed the golden beacon and arrived just in time.

——————

'What happened?'

Mother of the Sky, who had been hiding, lifted her head to confirm that they had left.

Not long after she began monitoring the nest, the Gallagons suddenly started rushing out in large numbers. It was as if they were responding to some urgent matter, quickly flying into the sky and disappearing from sight.

'Why are the Gallagons... Could it be?'

She looked up at the overcast sky. It was still filled with dark clouds, but something was different. A golden light flickered intermittently within the clouds, which were pouring down snow and hail. It was as though lightning was flowing between the clouds rather than striking the ground.

She realized that something was wrong. Something had gone terribly wrong.

That lightning, or rather the psychic power that resembled lightning, was created by her companion. It was a trump card that her companion would use when fighting a formidable enemy. The fact that they were using this ability meant that her companion was in danger.

She hesitated, wondering whether she should go help, but then made up her mind.

'Let's do what I can.'

She rose to her feet and dashed toward the cliff where the nest was located.

Thanks to the Gallagons' recent mass exodus, there were no White Gallagons left in the nest. To be precise, there were none except for the captured Ham Ort.

'If I don't do it now, it'll be hard to rescue her later.'

She had already been informed by the Amorph that Ham Orth was of great value. With the Amorph drawing their attention now, this was the only opportunity to save her.

'And besides, she's Adhai's biological mother.'

She thought of the small-statured Gallagon. Adhai harboured a mix of love and hate toward the mother who had abandoned her.

If something were to happen to Ham Orth, Adhai would forever lose the chance to resolve those feelings.

'She can be a bit of a pain sometimes, but…'

Somehow, she didn't want to see Adhai suffer.

'If I can just get past the Green Gallagon, I can make it.'

She would use the special power she possessed: "the Camouflage of the Huntress".

"It's better to use Wendigo."

Though not the most powerful of the mystical beasts she could transform into, the Wendigo was far more suited for infiltrating enemy lines and rescuing key figures, as she needed to do now.

She also had to consider the possibility of consecutive battles.

Once she used the Camouflage of the Huntress to transform, she wouldn't be able to shift into another mystical beast for a month. To transform again, she would have to revert to her Griffin wolf form and wait a full month. So, given the potential for prolonged conflict, the Wendigo, with a transformation duration of five days, was the better choice.

As she sprinted on all fours, she activated Wendigo.

Then, the black wave-like patterns on her body spread widely, enveloping her entire form. Her skeleton twisted, and the dense muscles that had been anchored across her body receded.

As her skeleton reshaped, her spine straightened, and her hind legs grew thicker and longer than her forelegs. Where she had once run on all fours, she now sprinted on just her two hind legs.

As she ran on two legs, she roughly tore away the remaining fur on her body. Golden fur and chunks of flesh were ripped away, revealing obsidian-black bones and thin layers of skin beneath.

Finally, she tore off the skin on her face. Beneath the torn skin was the black skull of a bird, with massive horns rising majestically from her head. It should have been the head of a stag, but traces of her Griffon form remained.

In the empty eye sockets, her distinct amber eyes glowed like will-o'-the-wisp.

Now transformed into a Wendigo, her body structure was similar to when she took on her humanoid form, suited for bipedal movement. Of course, her appearance was far more eerie and grotesque than in her humanoid form.

As she ran, she glanced down at her body and let out a small sigh.

｢This form is really not my favorite.｣

Now a Wendigo, Mother of the Sky, began to crawl down the cliff using her hands and feet.

The nest's inhabitants had not yet detected her intrusion.

The flames created by the cruiser's main cannon had obscured Odd Grad from view. While he burned in the inferno, I flew toward the cruiser where PS-111 was stationed.

The other Gallagons also targeted the ship that had attacked their leader. The ivory-colored ship began firing its cannons at the approaching enemies.

Medium and small-sized cannons mounted on the ship's outer walls unleashed a barrage of fire. The purple-glowing bullets were aimed at the flying Gallagons.

While the White Gallagons skillfully dodged, the younger Green Gallagons weren't as fortunate. A few of the green-scaled Gallagons fell, their wings riddled with holes.

Seeing this, a White Gallagon became enraged and began charging its breath attack. Noticing its tentacle bundles glowing purple, I accelerated and rammed into it.

｢!｣

The White Gallagon was caught off guard and whipped its head around to face me.

Its psychic breath struck the carapace of my head. The creature must have expected to see me plummet with a hole through my head, but unfortunately for it, reality defied its expectations.

The reflected heat ray pierced through its neck instead. The light in its amethyst-like eyes faded away. I opened my jaws and bit down on the Gallagon's head where it stood.

'I'd like to give this to Adhai, but...'

I tried earlier, but their interference was too intense—it's too difficult here. I tossed aside the headless corpse and prepared my own psychic breath.

As the latent energy within me transformed into psychic power, a voice echoed from the cruiser.

"I'm glad everyone's safe. Do you have a plan?"

The reason I called PS-111 here was because of the cruiser it's piloting. That cruiser is our only means of safely escaping this place.

Just as I was about to relay my thoughts to it, a high-powered psychic breath shot toward me from behind. I quickly ducked to avoid it.

The target of the dark purple psychic breath wasn't me but rather PS-111 at the far end of the direction I was flying toward.

The ship it was piloting urgently performed an evasive manoeuvre. However, the heat ray was so fast that it couldn't completely dodge it and was struck near the rear.

The rhombus-shaped cruiser staggered heavily, and I sensed the psychic wave emitted by Odd Grad behind me.

｢Pathetic little dwarves!｣

Of course, the cruiser's main cannon can't kill a Black Gallagon. As a psychic creature, it has resistance to cult weapons, and by the time a Gallagon turns black, its skin becomes extremely thick.

But that's not to say it took no damage at all. The scales on his left lower body, which had taken a direct hit from the main cannon, were peeling away, and blood was dripping down.

Though the injury was closer to a severe scratch than a deep wound, he seemed enraged by the fact that he had been hurt by a surprise attack. From the look in his eyes, which were oozing malice, he seemed ready to tear the cruiser apart at any moment.

｢Traitors!｣ ｢For the crime of attacking Odd Grad｣ ｢You shall pay with your lives!｣

'Good.'

The more it focuses on the cruiser, the better.

[ZZZ ZZZ ZZZ (Just keep him distracted for a bit)]

"Five minutes… No, due to the recent hit, make that three minutes. We won't last any longer than that."

That should be enough.

While PS-111 kept its attention, I flew toward where Adhai and Nel Germa were.

The two of them were moving in perfect sync, as if they were twins.

Adhai was using her small stature and quick movements to her advantage, weaving through the enemies. When she disrupted the Gallagons' formation, Nel Germa, with her powerful firepower, sniped the isolated Gallagons.

｢Small one｣ ｢Trouble｣ ｢Big one｣ ｢First｣

After falling for the same tactic several times, Odd Grad's companions began moving to eliminate Nel Germa.

'Not on my watch.'

With no intention of letting that happen, I fired a prepared psychic breath at them. This time, it was a standard breath, not infused with the Abyssal Hue.

They hurriedly scattered to avoid my attack, but one of them didn't escape in time. It was the one that had acted as bait for Odd Grad earlier. As it tried to ascend to safety, its lower body was blown off.

[ZZ (Grab it)]

｢Black kin｣ ｢Command｣ ｢Acknowledged｣

Hearing my psychic wave, Nel Germa quickly moved to grab the upper half of the corpse.

With one of their own falling so easily, the remaining six companions were thrown into disarray. While they were still in shock, I called out to Nel Germa and Adhai.

[ZZZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZ (We'll retreat for now)]

｢Many enemies｣ ｢How?｣

As they asked how we would escape, I explained the plan to them.

｢Difficult｣ ｢But｣ ｢Only way｣

｢Agreed｣ ｢Big one｣ ｢It's possible｣

｢Don't worry! I'll protect the big one!｣

Honestly, this plan is quite risky, but they trusted me. I handed over the corpse of the companion to Nel Germa and retreated. Leaving them to engage in another aerial battle with the Gallagons, I flew toward the cruiser.

It had only been a few minutes since the battle began, but the cruiser was already in shambles. It was barely floating in the sky with only its thrusters still functioning.

As I flew, I sent a wave to PS-111.

[ZZ ZZZZ ZZZ (Can you overload the engine?)]

"The ship's computer system is more complex than expected, but it is possible."

[ZZZZ Z ZZZ ZZZ ZZZ (Overload it and get ready to escape.)]

"Confirmed"

As expected from something that's half-machine. Despite the dangerous command that could get it blown to pieces, it immediately complied.

'Of course, I won't let it die.'

As I drew closer, Odd Grad turned his head and finally realized that I had killed one of his companions.

｢You...｣

Odd Grad didn't react much to the death of his companion. Instead, the dark purple flames in his eyes just intensified.

I bit into the female Gallagon's head, then tossed the corpse toward him. For a brief moment, his gaze shifted to the corpse.

The moment Number 26 used the corpse to obstruct his view, I unleashed the Abyssal Hue-infused "Watcher of Dread".

The bubble that formed on top of my cranial shell flew toward him, hidden behind the corpse. This time, he must have sensed the danger in advance, as he hurriedly widened the distance.

Using that opening, I quickly sent another wave to PS-111.

[ZZZZZ ZZZZ (Now. Jump off.)]

A few seconds after my wave reached it, the hangar of the ship opened, revealing PS-111. Without hesitation, it jumped off the platform of the hangar.

The mutant Screamer was free-falling without any support equipment. I adjusted my wings to catch it.

Folding my wings, my body plummeted sharply. Just as I was about to grab it, a second sun appeared in this planet's atmosphere.

The clouds I had split with the "Divine Spectre" were swept away by a massive explosion, disappearing once again.

I tightly embraced Number 26 and PS-111 with my winged arms. Then, the explosion reached where I was.

The force of the explosion, combined with the speed of my descent, brought me rapidly closer to the ground. Soon after, a violent impact struck my body.

'What about Odd Grad?'

Despite the pain relief messages flooding my mind, I ignored them and quickly looked up at the sky. Amid the dense clouds, only a blindingly bright orb remained.

And outside that orb, I saw small dots. There weren't many dots outside the explosion's boundary.

｢Black butcher!｣ ｢Butcher!｣ ｢Unforgivable!｣ ｢Unforgivable!｣ ｢Unforgivable!｣

A psychic wave so intense that it could be felt even from the ground. The owner of the message, whose vocabulary had become impoverished due to extreme rage, was Odd Grad.

It's unclear how much damage he and his subordinates sustained, but I suspect it wasn't insignificant.

Adhai and Nel Germa, who I had warned in advance, quickly escaped the blast radius as soon as they felt the vibrations, but the others weren't so fortunate.

[ZZ ZZZ ZZZZ ZZ ZZZ (Now we'll hide and escape. Help me out.)]

｢Okay! I'll help Big kin since you're hurt!｣

Due to the impact of the fall, the bones in my wing arms were shattered, and part of my cranial shell was broken. Fortunately, Number 26 and PS-111 were unharmed, having been protected in my embrace.

Number 26 emerged and inflated its body, using its psychic power to lift me slightly off the ground. Following my instructions, it began digging a tunnel using the Demon Crash.

[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZ ZZ ZZ ZZZZZ ZZZ (We'll take the corpses along the way. PS-111 will assist with this.)]

"Understood."

There are many Gallagon corpses around here that fell during our fight. Even if we gather only some of them, it will help Adhai grow.

PS-111 started to move upon receiving my command, but then suddenly paused.

"I have something to say."

[ZZ (What is it?)]

"I am modified to withstand atmospheric re-entry without significant issues. What was the meaning behind your recent actions?"

I was momentarily at a loss for words upon hearing its statement. That's because I didn't know it either.

'Wait, now that I think about it, I might've heard something like that before….'

As I remained silent, having nothing to say, Number 26 answered in my stead.

｢Big kin helped because he didn't want his friend to get hurt! Friends are like Big kin's family. Right?｣

"Is that so?"

Even though it was an action taken out of ignorance, there was no need to deny it. I quietly kept my mouth shut, and PS-111 bowed its head to me in gratitude.

"Thank you for your consideration, Amorph."

[ZZ (Alright.)]

After that, we hid in the tunnel Number 26 had dug, out of the enemy's sight.

An enraged Odd Grad cursed me and fired his psychic breath wildly into the forest. He seemed intent on not stopping until he had killed us all, but surprisingly, his onslaught soon ended.

It appeared something had gone wrong at his nest, as his subordinates hurriedly returned the way they had come.

｢Black butcher!｣ ｢I swear by the name of the great Odd Grad｣ ｢You will die by my hand!｣

With that final psychic wave, he disappeared along with his subordinates.

'Did the Mother of the Sky intervene?'

Just as PS-111 had come running upon seeing the "Divine Spectre", she might have also recognized that I was in danger and launched a diversionary attack.

'She'll be fine.'

It would be a lie to say I'm not worried, but she's a ranker like me. I trust she'll escape safely.

And so, the first encounter with the black dragon ended.

This time, it ended in what could be called a draw, but next time will be different.

The next time we meet, he will die by my hand.

---

——————

'Ah, I almost forgot.'

After the Gallagon herd left, I emerged from the burrow and checked the text box.

During the battle with them, the Predation Effect had triggered. Normally, when I don't use the Mark of Formidable Foe, the chances of obtaining a genetic essence are very low, but this time I got lucky. And it wasn't just any Gallagon's essence, it was from a White Gallagon, not a Green one.

When I opened the text box again, there were only 10 seconds left to make a choice. Startled, I quickly selected the trait acquisition.

｢You have acquired the trait 'Gallagon's Horns' from the 'White Gallagon.'｣

｢The 'Gallagon's Horns' trait has been applied.｣

'Phew, that was close.'

As the trait was applied, the horns on my head began to mutate.

The six horns grew significantly larger than before. While my head carapace remained the same, the enlarged horns made my head feel noticeably heavier.

There were also some detailed changes beyond just size.

For one, thin scales sprouted in reverse across the surface of all the horns. These scales had a white tint, making it look as if the black horns were cracked with white fissures.

Moreover, two of the six horns had been broken before the mutation, and this was reflected in the change.

Originally, there were two main types of horns on my head: a pair twisted into spirals, pointing forward, and four spike-like horns protruding sharply, aligned along my head carapace.

Due to Odd Grad's breath attack, the left spiral horn and the last of the four aligned horns had been damaged. They were in the process of regenerating, but with the mutation applied, their size and shape became uneven.

The right horn was thick and robust, while the left one had jagged scales sticking out like saw blades. The same went for the four aligned horns.

'Hmm.'

It was an unexpected change, but it didn't seem to hinder their use as weapons. I reached out and touched my now even more grotesque horns.

'Gallagon's Horns, huh?'

The psychic trait associated with the 'Gallagon's Horns' is very straightforward.

It completely negates the effects of psychic power techniques.

For example, take 'Reflection,' which often annoyed me.

Even if an enemy uses Reflection to protect themselves, my horns can pierce through it. The horns penetrate the Reflection barrier without resistance. Not just Reflection—any other psychic power shield technique is also nullified.

The nullification is limited to the horns. So, if my head carapace touches Reflection, my whole head will be repelled. However, the horns are so large that it's not much of an issue when fighting regular cultists. Each horn easily exceeds 1 meter in length, which is only natural.

'This trait is extremely useful when fighting cultists.'

Unfortunately, when battling Gallagons, there's little opportunity for these horns to shine. They don't use techniques like Reflection.

After confirming the changes to my horns, I also reviewed the messages that had appeared during the fight.

Although I failed to kill Odd Grad, this battle was still highly rewarding. I had successfully hunted 28 Apex creatures by now.

The Apex condition only counts creatures I kill directly. Thanks to using 'Divine Spectre' against the Gallagon herd, I was able to meet the quota all at once.

'Just two more, and I'll have met the Apex condition.'

Of course, that doesn't mean I'll stop hunting Apex creatures afterward. I still need to obtain 10 unique traits and 6 different types.

The Transcendence System has made acquiring unique traits somewhat easier, but it wasn't always like this.

In the game, the traditional way to obtain unique traits was by hunting creatures that possessed them. This involved hunting high-tier Apex creatures like the Black Gallagon or killing players who had unique traits.

The latter involved killing enemies who utilized genetic essences, such as Outspacer players or genetically modified MegaCorp players.

Naturally, even a Black Gallagon is extremely difficult for a player to hunt alone. Creatures like the Red Gallagon or Arcane Orca are far more formidable.

And players who manage to obtain unique traits from hunting these creatures? Needless to say, each one of them is an elite, ranking among the top-tier players.

Therefore, acquiring unique traits in the game was never easy.

So much so that fewer than ten people, including myself, managed to reach the adult stage of the Amorph. It was an incredibly tough barrier to overcome.

'In that sense, the Transcendence System is really groundbreaking.'

It hasn't even been a year since I arrived in this world, and I've already become this strong. As I was thinking that, my body suddenly floated into the air.

Number 26 was using its psychic power to lift me, likely to move my injured body.

[ZZ ZZZ (You're okay now.)]

｢No, I'll carry you since you're still hurt, Big Kin.｣

The lower part of my tail hadn't fully regenerated yet. My wing arms were also in the process of bone regeneration.

'I might as well accept its help for now.'

After wobbling a bit, it seemed to get the hang of it and began to carry me properly.

Soon after, PS-111 arrived, dragging the Gallagon corpses along, and lifted them as well.

'Impressive.'

It showed no difficulty in lifting both me and the Gallagon corpses with its psychic power. Truly befitting of a creature at the quasi-raid boss level.

We carefully moved, carrying the Gallagon corpses with us. There was no choice since Odd Grad could send more pursuers at any time.

I had already informed Adhai and Nel Germa to meet at the nest. They were probably hiding somewhere in the forest, moving cautiously.

About half a day after we started moving, the bones in my wings had nearly healed. So, I asked Number 26 to let me down.

｢Big Baby, you're still hurt. You should rest when you're in pain.｣

[ZZZ ZZZ (I'm fine now.)]

The pincers on my tail still had a long way to go before fully regenerating, but they didn't hinder me much from moving on the ground. I received a few Gallagon corpses from Number 26 and secured them tightly with my corrosive tentacles.

"Those tentacles seem very versatile and useful."

[ZZZZ (They are indeed.)]

"If we want to incorporate this into future upgrades, we'll need genetic information."

[ZZ (No.)]

I flatly refused its request and continued to move with the Gallagon corpses. Other than feeling a bit off-balance due to my lower body, I seemed fine.

After a brief rest, we resumed our journey toward the nest.

Since I was now moving on my own, our pace had picked up considerably, though it was still slower than flying. After nearly an entire day of travel, we finally arrived near the nest I had built.

As we approached the nest, Adhai and Nel Germa, who had arrived earlier, emerged from the forest.

"Sub Controller 2 confirmed as Little Baby. It's good to see you."

｢Hello, Little Baby!｣

｢Little Elder｣ ｢Wounded Child｣ ｢Safe｣ ｢Relief｣

Adhai greeted Number 26 and PS-111 before noticing me, with my still-regenerating tail, and looked startled.

｢Great Elder｣ ｢Injury｣ ｢Severe｣ ｢Are you alright?｣

[ZZ ZZZZ (I'll be fine soon.)]

｢Rest｣ ｢Necessary｣ ｢Return｣ ｢Qui...｣ ｢?｣

She stopped mid-thought, tilting her head in confusion. Her lavender eyes, like flowers on the snow, were fixed directly on my horns.

｢Horns｣ ｢Different｣ ｢Feeling｣

[ZZ ZZZZZ ZZZ ZZZZ (They broke because of Odd Grad earlier.)]

｢Broken｣ ｢Different｣ ｢Horns｣ ｢Changed｣

[ZZ ZZZ ZZ ZZ ZZ ZZ (They changed because I consumed prey.)]

｢One side is bigger.｣ ｢The other sharper.｣ ｢It's got a wild charm.｣

｢I agree.｣

Adhai nodded, seemingly more pleased with the current appearance of my horns. Beside her, Nel Germa sent a telepathic wave of agreement as well.

｢Do you like it when your appearance get bigger?｣

"Some species of males use elaborate tails or horns to attract mates."

｢I don't understand what you mean.｣

[ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZ ZZ ZZZZ (Enough with the chit-chat. Was everything okay at the nest?)]

At my words, Adhai suddenly remembered something, and her telepathic waves came flooding in.

｢Great Elder｣ ｢There's something important.｣ ｢Very, very, very important!｣ ｢We need to go to the nest right now!｣

[ZZ ZZ (What's going on?)]

｢Nel Germa｣ ｢Daughter of the Meteor｣ ｢Agrees｣ ｢Black kin｣ ｢Home｣ ｢Must check｣

Seeing the usually composed Nel Germa act this way made me uneasy.

'Could something have gone wrong at the nest?'

Or perhaps something severe had happened to the Mother of the Sky. I quickly checked the parasite in her head. Seeing it intact, I realized that there wasn't a critical issue with her body.

'Then why?'

[ZZZ ZZZZ (Is something wrong with the nest?)]

｢Nest｣ ｢No problem｣ ｢Problem｣ ｢Something else｣ ｢Hurry｣ ｢Confirm｣

Following the frantically urging Adhai, I rushed to the nest.

Between the trees in the distance, the entrance to a half-buried underground cave came into view. Beside the entrance was something massive, red, and white.

'Huh?'

Just as the shape started to feel familiar, someone emerged from the cave.

It was a beast with a thin, skeletal black body, massive antlers like those of a stag, and the head of a wild animal, resembling a skull.

This creature looked just like the malevolent Wendigo from "Space Survival".

And that Wendigo-like beast stared at me. From its empty eye sockets flickered an all-too-familiar amber flame.

The Wendigo was, in fact, the Mother of the Sky disguised in the ' Camouflage of the Huntress'. She had successfully returned from observing Odd Grad's nest.

As soon as she saw me, she gestured urgently.

｢There's no time! The injuries are too severe; it won't last much longer! You need to use the Symbiotic Bio-Spores immediately!｣

It wasn't until she spoke that I realized what the massive object at the cave's entrance was.

Tattered wings, broken and twisted limbs, a torn tail, and shattered horns. This was the body of a brutally injured White Gallagon.

And I had encountered this Gallagon before.

'Ham Ort? How?'

Adhai's mother, whom I thought was dead, was still alive.

'No, I have something more urgent to do first.'

This creature is a critical source of information. I can ask how she survived and why she's here later.

I created symbiotic bio-spores and applied them to the dying body of Ham Ort.

As I attached them, I touched her body, but there was no movement. I couldn't even feel it breathing, making it clear the creature was on the brink of death.

It was likely left outside the nest because the numerous harmful elements present within my nest could be lethal to any creature without my permission.

Due to the traits I possess, the nest emits many harmful substances to other organisms. While these aren't strong enough to threaten a White Gallagon's life, Ham Ort was critically injured. If she were left inside, she would most certainly become nourishment for the nest.

'Now that I've attached them, let's move her inside.'

Once the Symbiotic Bio-Spores were attached, Ham Ort could begin to benefit from their healing effects. I carefully lifted her body with my corrosive tentacles and gently placed her inside the nest.

Perhaps it was due to the warmth rising from the nest, but I could sense a faint return of vitality in Ham Ort's body.

[ZZZ ZZZ (What happened?)]

｢It's a long story. I'll explain it later, so you should rest as well.｣

She was right, my tail injury hadn't fully healed yet either. Without another word, she left the cave.

'There's a lot to think about, but….'

As the tension eased upon returning to the nest, I began to feel the weight of fatigue.

'For now, let's rest.'

I closed my eyes above the warm mire.

——————

I woke up in a hospital after clearing the Space Survival.

My parents, who had separated after I became an adult, were there, hugging me and crying. They held me tightly, repeatedly murmuring how relieved they were that I was alive.

To some, this might seem natural, but to me, it was an unfamiliar sight. While I was in the hospital, my parents would always blame each other.

But was I also hoping for a harmonious family? For some reason, tears welled up in my eyes, and I cried together with them.

Once they finally calmed down, my parents spoke to me.

They wanted to start over.

Although, legally, they were already strangers, they hoped to slowly rebuild their relationship.

Seeing them, I realized an unwanted truth.

I was dreaming.

My parents loved me, but their relationship with each other was never good. Even if I were to die, there would be no chance of them reuniting.

The moment I realized it was a dream.

I opened my eyes, finding myself above a swamp.

'How long have I been asleep?'

I checked my lower body and tail. My tail, covered in mucus, was intact, with no wounds. Even the completely lost claw had fully recovered.

Perhaps because I glimpsed reality through the dream, I suddenly wished I had this kind of healing ability when I was human. If I did, my parents wouldn't have divorced, and I wouldn't have lived a lonely life at home without a single close friend.

'…Such pointless thoughts.'

It wasn't even time to evolve, so why did the past suddenly appear in my dream? It only left me feeling worse.

I shook my head, trying to shake off both the mucus and the negative thoughts. The ripples I caused in the swamp were blocked by an object in front of me.

It was Ham Ort, a White Gallagon lying there with symbiotic bio-spores attached.

Compared to when she first entered the nest, she had improved, but she still wasn't in a good state. While her broken legs and torn tail had healed, her wings hadn't even half-regenerated.

The horn on her head remained broken. Although we'd have to wait and see, it seemed there was a chance she might never fully recover.

After checking on Ham Ort's condition, I stood up. As soon as I stepped out of the nest, the first thing I saw was an enormous, bright pink jellyfish.

It was Number 26, with its body maximally inflated. Through the gaps in its pink tentacles, I could see the heads of Blue Gallagons with blue scales. Just as it had done on the cruiser, it was holding the cold-sensitive Blue Gallagons tightly within itself.

｢Little one, are you not in pain?｣

[Z ZZ ZZZ (Yes. I'm fine now.)]

Seeing me, it raised one of its tentacles and waved it gently.

Looking around, I noticed several pits that weren't there before I fell asleep. Branches were covering the tops of the pits.

'So they were hiding here.'

It seemed that when the cruiser left, the Green Gallagons and Blue Gallagons dug into the pits. We had also maintained body temperature in a similar way after the fight with Jason, so it was easy to figure out.

Currently, instead of Green Gallagons, the pits were filled with the corpses of other creatures.

｢The middle one brought them. You can eat too if you're hungry.｣

The recovery of my body and the emptiness in my stomach were separate issues. Gladly following its suggestion, I pulled out one of the corpses from a pit.

It was a Snow Banshee, grotesquely twisted, with its tongue ripped out. The cold emanating from it suggested it had been dead for quite some time.

I had eaten this one a few times before. It tasted like a mix of jerky and dried squid.

I put the meat in my mouth and chewed. Since it already tasted like a snack, the coldness didn't bother me much.

While chewing on the cold Snow Banshee, I asked PS-111.

[ZZ ZZZ (Where are the others?)]

｢The flappy one went hunting. The middle one has something to say to the little one and the big flappy one.｣

The "big flappy one" it referred to was Nel Germa.

Number 26 gestured with one of its tentacles, pointing toward the forest.

｢They went that way together.｣

[ZZZ (Thank you.)]

After quickly finishing off one of the corpses, I crawled in the direction it indicated.

A forest emerged, where only black and white existed, like a chessboard. The ground was lightly covered in snow, with black trees growing above it. Dim light filtered through the densely intertwined branches.

As I moved through the sombre forest, I sensed the movements of three creatures, all varying in size.

And then, the scent of blood.

The scent of blood lingering low in the forest was quite familiar. It was the blood of a White Gallagon.

'Adhai must have fed on the Gallagon's corpse.'

It seemed they had noticed me as well, as a small creature approached from the other side. Soon, the Mother of the Sky appeared between the trees, resembling a Wendigo.

｢You're here? How's your body?｣

[ZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZ ZZZ (I'm fine. Thanks to you, I even managed to eat.)]

｢I wasn't sure when you'd wake up, so I caught a lot, just in case. I'm glad to see you're okay.｣

[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZ ZZ (How did you manage to bring Ham Ort?)]

｢Oh, but there's something I need to tell you first, about Adhai.｣

[ZZZZZ ZZZZ ZZ ZZZ (That reminds me, where is Adhai? Is she fully grown now?)]

She fell silent at my question, scratching her skull with a hand covered in black fur.

｢It's hard to explain… you should see for yourself.｣

She signalled me to follow with a slight beckon of her finger.

For a moment, I wondered if something had gone wrong, but her demeanour suggested otherwise. Her reaction was more akin to the awkwardness of encountering something unexpected.

Following her led us to a small clearing. Amidst scattered chunks of meat lay the white Gallagon, Nel Germa. She noticed me and gave a slight nod.

Behind her was a Gallagon I had never seen before.

Its length was around 4 to 5 meters—slightly larger than the Mother of the Sky when she transforms into a Griffon.

It had six horns on its head, long tendrils dangling from its mouth, and a serpentine body—all traits characteristic of a Gallagon, except for one key difference.

The wings. The small Gallagon had four wings instead of two.

Gallagon wings are usually located on the upper back, close to the chest. Like the others, this Gallagon had large wings positioned on its upper back, near its front legs.

Additionally, it had a smaller pair of wings attached near where the hind legs connected to the tail.

In the game, there is only one type of Gallagon with four wings.

The most powerful of all Gallagons, possessing strength comparable to the Vortex One: the Red Gallagon.

'But…'

The Red Gallagon, as the name suggests, is covered in red scales. Unlike the psychic powers used by other Gallagons, the Red Gallagon wields a unique energy system known as Dragon Power, which makes its scales shimmer with a mystical, ruby-like brilliance.

However, the Gallagon standing behind Nel Germa was not red.

Or more precisely, the red color was limited to its wings and horns. Its wings and horns glowed a vivid crimson, as if soaked in the blood of a Gallagon.

Yet, the rest of its body remained as white as the snow piled up in the clearing.

A faint wave of thought emanated from the hybrid Gallagon, whose red and white colors were intermingled.

｢Elder｣｢I｣｢Failed｣｢I'm sorry｣

Hearing the apology from the half-grown Adhai, I found myself at a loss for words.

Disappointed? Honestly, it would be a lie to say I didn't feel that way, but that wasn't the reason.

The real reason for my shock was that I couldn't understand the situation.

'A half-grown Red Gallagon…'

There wasn't any creature like this in the game—not even as an event.

The Red Gallagon was supposed to be a raid boss, a transcendent being that ruled over all Gallagons. There should be no middle ground in its growth.

Moreover, if the transition from White to Red Gallagon failed, it would naturally turn into a Black Gallagon, wouldn't it? I couldn't understand why Adhai had become this hybrid, with traits of both White and Red Gallagons.

My mind raced as I examined it again. No matter how I looked at her, she clearly had four wings. Although they drooped and hung above the snow, they were unmistakable. The wings, like the horns, were as red as blood.

At that moment, our eyes met. Her eyes, as beautiful as amethysts embedded in ice, were filled with an anxious light.

I flinched, suddenly reminded of a similar gaze from long ago.

Whenever my parents fought, I would hide in the closet. Every time, I would face the mirror attached to the closet door.

The look in her eyes now was very much like someone's eyes reflected in that mirror back then.

'...Calm down.'

Forcing myself to stay calm, I sent out a wave of thought.

[ZZZ ZZZ (What happened?)]

｢I｣｢betrayed｣｢the Elder's expectations｣

[ZZZ Z ZZZ ZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZZZZ ZZZ ZZZ (That's not true. I've never once thought you've let me down.)]

It was the truth.

Number 26, Adhai, the Mother of the Sky, and PS-111—they all supported and sustained me. Not once had I ever felt disappointed in them. They always exceeded my expectations, and if I lacked in any area, they filled in the gaps.

My emotions must have reached Adhai, as she seemed to calm down a bit. Seeing that she was stable, I asked again.

｢Corpse｣｢After feeding｣｢During growth｣｢I felt something bad｣

[ZZZ ZZ (Something bad?)]

｢Growth｣｢Completion｣｢I｣｢transform into the Savior｣｢The only ruler of my kind｣｢The Red Queen｣

[ZZ ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZ ZZZ (Yes, when you fully grow, you'll become the Red Queen of your kind.)]

At my words, Adhai shook her head, looking at me with sorrowful eyes.

｢If that happens｣｢I won't be able to stay by the Elder's side anymore｣

[ZZZ (What?)]

｢The Red Queen｣｢must lead the prosperity of her kind｣｢That is her sole mission｣｢Elder｣｢Little Elder｣｢Friend｣｢Sick child｣｢We all must part ways｣

Hearing those words, something suddenly clicked in my mind.

According to the lore, the Red Gallagon was akin to a king among Gallagons—a being that commanded all Gallagons and reigned over them.

And a king cannot exist without a kingdom.

｢I｣｢struggled with this｣｢I resented my kind｣｢Ham Ort｣｢But I didn't want to see them die｣｢So｣｢I thought of walking the path of the Savior｣

As I quietly listened, Adhai continued to send her thoughts to me.

｢I chose｣｢to have both the Savior and the Elder｣

[ZZZ ZZZ ZZZ ZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZ (So, you gave up on becoming the Red Queen?)]

In response, Adhai sent a wave of denial.

｢I cannot refuse｣｢the mission of the Red Queen｣｢But I postponed it｣

[ZZZ (Postponed?)]

｢I'm still lacking｣｢I have much to learn from the Elder｣

Adhai emerged from behind Nel Germa and approached me. Then, she respectfully bowed her head before me.

｢I belong to the Elder's group｣｢Will the Elder accept me?｣

While I was sleeping, Adhai had made an important decision.

Though it was a decision made in a short time, I didn't think it was a rash one. Even if it was, I couldn't belittle her decision.

It chose to forgo the throne and stay by my side.

'Adhai will be helpful to me.'

I wasn't sure how much stronger she had become, but she must have surpassed a regular White Gallagon. With some luck, she might even be able to use the Red Gallagon's unique Dragon Power.

It would be a valuable asset not only in battles against Odd Grad but also in future confrontations with other formidable foes.

'...But it's not just that.'

If I had intended to let her leave, I wouldn't have come this far. Neither her nor Number 26 would ever be given away to anyone else.

I approached Adhai, extended my arm, and patted her trembling head.

[ZZZZ ZZZZ (You're always welcome here.)]

It was uncertain whether she would eventually grow into a Black or Red Gallagon. However, the nuance of postponing suggested that growth wasn't entirely impossible.

So even if she doesn't become a Red Gallagon, she might still evolve into a Black Gallagon later on, though I don't know how.

'That's something to figure out later.'

Adhai, now transformed, seemed like she would be useful in the fight against Odd Grad. Even if she hadn't grown stronger, that was fine.

The red horns and wings.

The meaning behind those symbols would be better understood by Gallagons than by me.

'It might even provoke internal strife if things go well.'

With that thought, I continued to pat Adhai's head.

——————

Adhai's growth issue is resolved, but there are still some matters left to address.

Originally, I had included the Red Gallagon in the plan to conquer Odd Grad, but that card is no longer playable.

'So, I need to revise the plan to fight without the Red Gallagon.'

Despite her decision, it's hard to ignore the missed opportunity.

The Red Gallagon is, both by design and in actual gameplay, a top predator more terrifying than the Sea Demon or Black Gallagon. There are very few creatures more powerful than the Red Dragons.

However, I can't expect such strength from the current Adhai. How much of the Red Gallagon's power she can wield remains uncertain, but it will definitely be weaker than the original.

'I'll look into that later.'

For now, there are things I need to check first. I looked up at the Mother of the Sky.

She had entered the nest herself to rescue Ham Ort. There are many things I need to ask her, like how she managed it, the size of the enemy forces, and their condition.

｢I knew you used the Divine Spectre by looking at the sky.｣

Already aware of what I wanted to ask, she slowly began to explain what happened in the dragon's nest.

｢I debated whether I should retreat to support you, but since I can't fly, I thought rushing there wouldn't be helpful. It seemed better to attack the nest instead, so that's what I did.｣

[ZZ (Makes sense.)]

｢I thought it was worth a try since the White Gallagons had all left the nest. Entering the nest wasn't difficult either.｣

The black fur of the Wendigo hosts minute-sized bacteria. While these bacteria don't cause significant harm to other beings, they do induce temporary cognitive impairment.

The Wendigo can intentionally spread the bacteria from its body. Those who inhale or become infected experience a temporary loss of direction, confusion of the senses, and other disorienting effects.

'A perfect ability for infiltration or surprise attacks.'

She must have known the Wendigo as well as I did, which is why she transformed into it.

For reference, this ability can only be used when transformed into a Wendigo, as the bacteria are generated from its black fur by design.

[ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZZ (How many Gallagons were in the nest?)]

｢I couldn't check accurately since I tried to avoid them as much as possible, but just the Green Gallagons alone seemed to number over 50.｣

[ZZZZ ZZ (That's a lot.)]

Considering the Gallagons she didn't see, as well as the hatchlings, the Odd Grad group likely has close to 100 members.

As far as I know, a single Gallagon group rarely exceeds 60 members. If their numbers grow beyond that, it becomes difficult for them to secure enough food.

'Now that I think about it, when I first fought the mutant Screamer here…'

Because of its self-destruction, a fire broke out in the forest, burning many creatures alive. The Gallagons that flew in at that time were busy grabbing food rather than anything else.

Gallagons enjoy hunting live creatures. They do eat dead ones, but it's a lower priority. Yet, the Gallagons were focused on carrying away the charred remains.

[ZZZZ ZZZ (They must be starving.)]

｢I didn't check where the eggs were stored, but I think so. They have too many mouths to feed.｣

[ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZ (Even with all those numbers, you managed to rescue Ham Ort.)]

｢It was a close call. But the situation was favorable.｣

[ZZ ZZZ (What do you mean?)]

｢Ham Ort was also waiting for the right moment. As soon as I met her and briefly explained, she understood right away. Thanks to her cooperation, we were able to minimize the fighting.｣

I was slightly surprised by her words. Indeed, it must be said that Adhai's mother has an extraordinary sense of judgment and courage.

She explained that, thanks to the rescue target's active cooperation, she didn't face much difficulty escaping the nest. It was due to the Wendigo's powerful special ability, "Spirit of Ice."

Creatures afflicted by the Spirit of Ice lose all reason due to an abnormal hunger. She used this to cause the Green Gallagons circling the nest to go berserk, diverting the enemy's attention.

Moreover, the cliff, which she had anticipated would be the biggest obstacle in the escape, was easily overcome thanks to Ham Ort's suggestion.

｢Originally, I planned to climb up and escape, but Ham Ort mentioned that there was water flowing below the cliff. So, we made our way out through there.｣

As they jumped off the cliff, Ham Ort used her psychic power to slow their descent. As a result, both of them landed on the water without sustaining any serious injuries.

｢If we had been even slightly slower, it would have been dangerous. Odd Grad returned while we were escaping.｣

It was a remarkable coincidence. If she had returned to the nest or if the rescue of Ham Ort had taken just a bit longer, they both would have been doomed.

After escaping through the waterway, she returned to the nest.

｢When I got back, everyone was hiding in the pits they dug in front of the nest.｣

'So, those were the pits I saw earlier.'

They almost attacked the Mother of the Sky when they saw her transformed into a Wendigo, but thanks to Ham Ort, a fight was avoided.

｢After that, I went out for food hunting and scouting whenever I could. Just in case you brought a Gallagon back with you.｣

[ZZZ (Good job.)]

As expected of a Ranker, her situational judgment and actions were appropriate. When I praised her, the amber flames that flickered in her eye sockets swayed gently.

｢Praise has become common from you recently, Amorph.｣

[ZZZ (Should I take it back?)]

｢I'm kidding. By the way, Ham Ort also mentioned something strange about Odd Grad having a peculiar power.｣

[ZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZZ ZZZ (Yes. He can predict danger.)]

｢Predict danger?｣

At my words, the Mother of the Sky scratched her black skull with her hand.

｢Are you talking about foresight? It wasn't that great in the game.｣

[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZZZ (Not here. He can actually read the future.)]

Understanding the implications of my words, she straightened her posture. She knew as well as I did how problematic it was for a top predator like the Black Gallagon to have the ability to read the future.

｢…This won't be easy. How far into the future can he see?｣

[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZZZ (Less than 5 minutes before a life-threatening situation occurs.)]

I couldn't say for sure how far ahead he could see, but it was certain that he could respond to life-threatening situations.

'Now that I think about it, Ham Ort mentioned fighting him.'

[ZZZZ ZZZZ ZZ ZZ ZZZZ ZZZZZ (You said Ham Ort told you, right? I'll have to ask her when she wakes up.)]

｢Huh? I'm not sure if Ham Ort knows.｣

[ZZZ (What?)]

｢The ability she described wasn't the foresight one. It was something different.｣

[ZZ ZZZ Z ZZZ (He has another ability?)]

Her words caught me off guard.

｢It's not a combat-related ability like foresight. Actually, it's debatable whether it's even an ability at all.｣

[ZZ ZZZZ (What is it then?)]

｢According to Ham Ort, he possesses a mineral that has the power to deceive his own kind.｣

[ZZ (A mineral?)]

As soon as she said that, something came to mind.

'A gemstone? Could it be?'

He was wearing a large ring with a refined gemstone set into his forepaw.

Gallagons are intelligent, but they have no concept of adorning themselves with equipment or clothing. So, I thought it was unusual when I saw his ring.

[ZZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZ ZZZ (Now that you mention it, he was wearing a ring with a gemstone.)]

｢A gemstone ring. That must be it. Ham Ort said that he never separates himself from the mineral that holds this power.｣

If Ham Ort's words are true, it explains why Odd Grad, despite having an abnormal personality for a Gallagon, could command so many of his kind. Never mind where that ring came from.

'Whatever it is, the fact that the ring is the key to his control is crucial information.'

What if he loses the ring during battle?

His followers would be thrown into chaos. They're already starving, and their leader is using a suspicious method to control his own kind.

If used wisely, this could be a fatal blow to Odd Grad.

I looked down at Adhai, who was rubbing her head against the back of my hand.

Seeing her gave me ideas on how to approach the battle against Odd Grad.

'Good.'

I had gathered enough information from the Mother of the Sky. As I organized the information, I thought about what needed to be done next.

There were three tasks remaining.

Wait for Ham Ort to wake up, and then…

'Check Adhai's abilities and activate my mimic scales.'

Both were related issues and could be dealt with at the same time.

[ZZ ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZ ZZ (Let's head back to the nest. There's a lot to do.)]

｢Right.｣

｢Finished｣ ｢talking?｣

[ZZZ (Yes.)]

At my response, she gently lifted her head from my hand. Perhaps due to the mixture of Red Gallagon traits, she looked somewhat different.

Of course, her body had grown larger, and the color of her horns and wings had changed, but there was something fundamentally different about her.

'Her thought waves have changed.'

Previously, her thought waves were sent in short bursts, filled with raw emotion. Now, they were much more refined, similar to how Number 26 or Odd Grad conveyed their thoughts.

[ZZ ZZZ ZZZZZ (You've gotten better at communication.)]

｢Is｣ ｢change｣ ｢bad?｣

[ZZ ZZZZ ZZ ZZZZ (No. Growth is a good thing.)]

Her thought waves were simple, which sometimes made them difficult to understand. This was much easier for me.

'Though, I do feel a bit nostalgic.'

With that thought, I picked up the remaining Gallagon corpse.

As Adhai, the Mother of the Sky, Nel Germa, and I returned to the nest, we saw the Green Gallagons that had gone hunting.

They were clinging tightly to Number 26's body, just like the Blue Gallagons had done before. The cold of this planet was something even Gallagons found hard to withstand.

'Should I implant them with symbiotic bio-spores?'

Then, the Gallagons noticed us and detached themselves from Number 26. They approached us, lowering their wings and upper bodies close to the ground while bowing their heads.

'What's this?'

All of their horns were pointed toward one single being.

It was Adhai, who was perched on my back.

'Hmm.'

This was the first time other Gallagons had reacted this way to Adhai. Although she hadn't fully become a Red Gallagon, it seemed that the other Gallagons didn't see it that way.

After bowing in unison, the Gallagons raised themselves and brought out the corpses they had buried in the pit, placing them in front of me. Their actions resembled servants offering food to their master.

'No, in this case, it's more like subjects presenting a gift to their queen.'

Adhai tilted her head in confusion, not understanding why they were doing this.

｢I'm｣ ｢full｣ ｢No need｣ ｢to give｣ ｢food｣ ｢You｣ ｢eat｣

｢Thank you｣

Only after she declined did the Green Gallagons begin to eat the food they had caught. While they ate, I attached symbiotic spores to their bodies.

Then, I gave a portion of the remaining White Gallagon remains to Number 26.

[ZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZ (Eat up. We have work to do.)]

｢What work?｣

[ZZ ZZZZ ZZ ZZZ (I need both you and Adhai.)]

｢Got it. Big baby can count on me!｣

She's always so encouraging, never failing to say something nice.

Feeling grateful, I raised my winged arm and gently patted her. She shimmered with delight, glowing brightly.

After sharing the Gallagon corpse with Number 26, I set out from the nest with the two of them.

'This should do.'

Stopping at a suitable clearing, I explained to Adhai and Number 26 what we would be doing here.

[ZZ ZZZZ ZZ ZZ ZZ ZZZ ZZZ (First, we'll test the new power Adhai gained.)]

We needed to see how much of the Red Gallagon's power she could harness.

'The Red Gallagons use a new type of power called Dragon Power.'

Depending on how much she can wield it, our schedule might need some adjustments.

To grant psychic resistance to my mimic scales, I need to be exposed to pure psychic power attacks. Developing resistance to Dragon Power wouldn't be useful right now.

The resistance effect provided by the mimic scales only applies to one type of energy at a time. It takes several days for the immunity to reset, so we have to be careful not to waste time.

｢Should｣ ｢I try it now?｣

[ZZZ ZZZ (Yes. As much as you can.)]

As I nodded, Adhai's eyes sparkled with excitement.

Then, a red aura began to emanate from her body.

——————