The artromus's body began disintegrating, its particles reconfiguring into a weapon of earthen tones: a massive hammer, a form none present had ever seen.
Elio tried to reach for it, but his legs finally gave out.
He found himself on his knees, the reality of his exhaustion suddenly hitting him. His resistance had dropped to dangerous levels, his muscles screaming in protest from the superhuman pressure he had subjected them to.
Unconsciousness threatened to claim him, just like after his battle with Aranto.
But this time was different.
This time he knew what to expect, and maintained consciousness through sheer force of will.
Zara and Lila were the first to reach his side, immediately followed by the rest of the main group, even Ren and Diana had recklessly jumped behind Zara despite being lower level than the others.
Kriz stepped forward to pick up the hammer, a smile forming on his face.