The survivors scrambled, grabbing torches and makeshift weapons. They struck at the fire-sensitive plants, sending embers flying.
The moment the first flames erupted, the creature let out a deafening screech, recoiling violently as the fire spread. It was afraid.
Athena didn't hesitate. She grabbed a burning branch and charged, swinging it toward the monster.
The flames licked at its skin, and this time, it didn't heal. It stumbled back, its hollow eyes filled with something almost like terror.
Xavier joined her, hurling another burning log at its feet. The creature howled, its body convulsing as the fire consumed it.
Then, with one final, anguished shriek, it collapsed, writhing as the flames devoured its flesh. Within moments, there was nothing left but smoldering ash.
The silence that followed was deafening. The survivors stood frozen, staring at the remains. Then, one by one, they let out ragged breaths, the weight of what had just happened settling over them.
