One “good” turn deserves another

The desperate struggle of a dying beast is even more fearsome than that of a ferocious predator during the hunt.

Tyler's three arrows had inflicted a mere 32 points of damage upon the Giant Carrion Rat. Once ignited, the demon would suffer an additional 43 points of burning damage per second.

In ten seconds, Tyler swiftly calculated the outcome.

If he could withstand the Giant Carrion Rat's assault for ten seconds, victory would be his.

"Squeak, squeak, squeak!"

Alas, the four-legged Giant Carrion Rat was already faster than Tyler. Agonizing pain only served to further enhance its speed, closing the gap between them in an instant.

— 8 seconds!

Tyler had no choice but to raise his shield and brace for impact. With a resounding clang, he was sent flying once more. The shield cracked deeply, rendered useless.

The fractured shield fell to the ground, and Tyler's left hand, which had barely regained sensation, was paralyzed again.