The moment Ralph collapsed, Ethan shifted back into Panther Form and leapt onto its back. His claws lashed out, each strike precisely aimed at the back of Ralph's head—universally the weak spot of all monsters, designed to inflict bonus damage.
Still, there were no critical hits. A Fatal Strike trigger wasn't happening.
Three seconds later, Ralph stirred. It shook its head groggily, trying to rise. Its health had dropped below 50,000.
Ethan launched off its back and shifted into Owl Form mid-air. Before even landing, he cast Bramble Bind, locking Ralph's feet in place.
The monster had barely stood up before vines snaked around its legs, pinning it to the ground. Ethan landed three yards away, near the corner of the wall. The corridor's staircase was narrow—only about six yards wide—but the bend worked in his favor. Monsters outside couldn't see in.
