As Yves attempted to pry open the Numbing Rat's jaws, he encountered resistance. The creature's mouth was tightly shut, making the extraction of the sharp incisors a bit challenging. Yves struggled initially, carefully working to find the right angle and leverage.
However, with determination and some trial and error, Yves managed to loosen the creature's jaws. The first incisor came out, and though it took some effort, it served as a valuable lesson. Yves then placed the extracted incisor on the forest floor.
While Yves kept at it, taking out the other three teeth became easier. With each tooth, he figured out better ways to do it. By the time he got to the last tooth, Yves had gotten the hang of it.
"Well, that was a little tricky at first, but you know what they say – practice makes perfect. Now, let's see about those claws and tail." Yves said, a pleased smile showing on his face.
Yves concentrated on the claws, carefully addressing each paw of the Numbing Rat. He went one by one, cutting through the joints with his obsidian dagger. In no time, he removed all eighteen claws.
Inspecting his work, Yves smirked. "Removing these claws turned out to be easier than dealing with the incisor. Guess I'm getting better at this."
With the claws neatly collected, Yves shifted his attention to the tail. Locating the base where the tail connected to the rat's body, he sliced through the tissues. The process was executed efficiently, and Yves cleanly disconnected the tail from the Numbing Rat.
Yves wiped a small bead of sweat from his forehead. "Finally done." With a satisfied sigh, he attentively stored all of the extracted materials in his exploring bag.
After making sure his bag was secure and fixing the straps, he stood up. Yves stretched his limbs, easing the tension that had built up during the extraction process.
Turning towards Taro, he quietly said. "Well done, Taro, we're good to go."
Quickly checking the surroundings, Yves added. "Just like before, stay alert and ready as we explore. Let's see what else this forest has in store for us."
Taro emitted a satisfied squeak, acknowledging Yves' approval. The duo resumed their exploration, venturing deeper into the forest.
Yves and Taro were walking for about five minutes in the forest when they spotted another Numbing Rat. This time, Taro knew how to handle it well, having learned from their previous encounter. Taro took care of the rat without any trouble, showing off his improved skills.
Yves, pleased with Taro's progress, approached the defeated rat to collect valuable parts. He gathered the incisors, claws, and tail efficiently, like it was a routine they were used to.
As they continued their journey, Yves felt the weight of his bag increasing. He couldn't help but smile at the growing pile of monster materials.
"I'd like to capture some pet monsters, but I don't have a space bag or ring for storage at the moment." Yves thought out loud. "But maybe, after we sell these materials, who knows? I might just have enough to buy one."
All of a sudden, Taro snapped to attention. His ears perked up, signaling his awareness of another monster nearby. At the same time, the creature he sensed rushed at him with aggression.
The monster, unlike any they had encountered before, had the appearance of a robust and muscular rabbit. Its fur, deep brown in color, gave it a rugged and wild look.
What immediately drew attention was a singular horn that proudly extended from its forehead. This horn resembled a piece of brown rock, sharp and dangerous, with rough edges and a pointed tip.
Yves felt a surge of caution as he observed the creature. Unlike the numbing rats they had previously faced, this monster radiated a far more intense aura. It carried an undeniable air of strength, making it clear that dealing with this creature wouldn't be as straightforward as their previous encounters.
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⊂ Rocktail Horned Rabbit ⊃
Grade: Green Bronze-order
Realm: ☆☆
Species: Stonetusk Cuniculus/Petrus
Special Trait: Rocky Armor
Affinity: Earth
Ability: Quake Stomp, Quake Spike, Stone Shield, Crystalized Horn
Evolution Route: Rocktail Dual-Horned Rabbit
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Yves instinctively took a step back as he read out the information. "No wonder it freaking felt powerful. It's a Green Bronze-order monster."
Turning to Taro, Yves instructed, "Taro, this one is a serious opponent. Don't hold back. It's the same grade as you. Go all out."
Yves tapped into the ability section, checking the skills of the Rocktail Horned Rabbit.
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Ability:
⊂ Quake Stomp ⊃
: Rocktail Horned Rabbit delivers a powerful stomp, causing shockwaves through the ground. This ability can disrupt the balance of opponents and potentially immobilize them, leaving them vulnerable to follow-up attacks.
⊂ Quake Spike ⊃
: Rocktail Horned Rabbit controls the ground, causing spikes to erupt and create a dangerous area. Opponents within this zone can be impaled and damaged by the sharp spikes.
⊂ Stone Shield ⊃
: Rocktail Horned Rabbit forms a protective shield made of solid rock and compacted soil, reducing incoming damage.
⊂ Crystalized Horn ⊃
: Rocktail Horned Rabbit can temporarily infuse its horn with earth magic. When activated, the horn becomes harder and sharper, enhancing its piercing capabilities during attacks. This ability also grants the rabbit increased resistance to certain magical effects.
⋖ ⸻ +++:-:+:-:+:-:+:-:+++ ⸻ ⋗
Yves quickly absorbed the monster's abilities and was about to warn Taro, but the Rocktail Horned Rabbit wasted no time. It leaped forward, its horn shining with an earthy glow as it triggered Quake Spike.
As the sharp spikes burst forth, Taro activated his skill, Shadow Veil. Darkness enveloped him, making him immune to physical harm. The spikes passed through the shadowy silhouette of Taro, brushing against him but failing to pierce or cause any harm.
"Nice one, Taro!" Yves exclaimed, impressed by his pet monster's reaction. Taking a moment, Yves quickly briefed Taro about the skills of the Rocktail Horned Rabbit.
Recognizing the need for more distance, Yves stepped back, creating a reasonable gap between Taro and the Rocktail Horned Rabbit. He knew that attempting to intervene might only burden Taro rather than assist him.
In this moment, Yves found himself in the role of a spectator and a strategist. All he could do was watch and instruct Taro. Despite currently facing a formidable monster, Yves had confidence in Taro's abilities. He believed that, even against this strong opponent, Taro had what it took to emerge victorious.
The Rocktail Horned Rabbit, surprised by its missed attack, unleashed another ability—Quake Stomp. The creature's powerful stomp sent shockwaves through the ground, creating a ripple effect in the surrounding area. The earth itself seemed to shake as the rabbit attempted to disrupt Taro's balance.
However, in his shadowed state, Taro remained undisturbed by the Rocktail Horned Rabbit's attempt. Seizing the moment, Taro closed the distance between them. As he neared the creature, he initiated one of his abilities—Shadow Fang Barrage.
Taro's mouth opened wide, and shadows oozed from his snout as he aimed a series of quick bites at the creature. The darkness around Taro intensified with each bite, creating an eerie sight.
However, the Rocktail Horned Rabbit wasn't one to be underestimated. It quickly set up its Stone Shield ability, making a shield out of rocks and soil.
The dark bites collided with this tough shield, and the clash of shadows and solid earth produced a series of loud and echoing impacts.
Taro's barrage managed to break through the shield, shattering the rock defense with a thunderous crack. Chunks of rocks and soil scattered in all directions as the darkness overwhelmed the shield's durability.
As the dust settled, the Rocktail Horned Rabbit, quick on its feet, leaped back, putting a safe distance between itself and Taro. The monster assessed the situation, acknowledging Taro's strength.
Taro, on the other hand, gradually shifted back to his normal form. The shadows that had enveloped him during the intense exchange dissipated as the Shadow Veil ran out.
Feeling his shadowy protection wears off, Taro knew things were about to get tougher. With some time before he could use his Shadow Veil once again, he had to rely on his speed and instincts.
Yves, seeing this change, said urgently. "Taro, your Shadow Veil is on cooldown, and we can't rely on it for a while. Move fast, and trust your gut. Dodge when necessary, and when you spot an opening, strike swiftly. This one's tough, but I still believe that you can win."