Bab 40: The Powers That Be (2)

Panting heavily, Arthur took the opportunity to create some distance, his injured arm hanging limp at his side. The pain was excruciating, but he couldn't stop now. Not when he was this close.

The Crystallon Rex snarled, shaking off the effects of the psychic assault. Its crystal began to glow once more, energy building in the core. Arthur braced himself, knowing that another laser strike would be deadly at this range. He needed a plan—and fast.

The Rex charged again, its eyes locked on Arthur. He could feel the heat of the energy building in the crystal, the faint crackle of electricity in the air. Arthur darted to the left, barely avoiding the Rex's gaping jaws, but he wasn't quick enough to dodge the swipe of its claws. The beast's talons raked across his side, sending sparks and chunks of scales flying.