Instead of cleaving directly through the core as intended, Arthur's blade slashed across its surface. The crystal didn't shatter, but deep cracks spiderwebbed across its glowing form. Golden light spilt from the fractures like bleeding wounds.
The plant convulsed in obvious agony, its entire form spasming. The mental scream it projected was so powerful that Arthur actually staggered back, momentarily disoriented.
"Master!" Aether called, moving to intervene.
"Stay back!" Arthur ordered, regaining his footing. "I've got this."
The pollen bloom was hurt badly, but not defeated. Its movements had become erratic, less coordinated. The crystal at its core flickered like a dying lightbulb, power surging and fading unpredictably.
Arthur circled warily, katana held ready. His mana was depleted, but he still had his spatial abilities and physical skills. The plant tracked his movement, petals closing further to shield its damaged core.
