Despite the pain lancing through his back, Usato immediately focused, his thoughts racing. Sky, heal my back! Now!
Sky's response was immediate. "Acknowledged, Host. Initiating rapid tissue regeneration. Prior to this encounter, the nanobots have been continuously devouring and processing various indigenous healing herbs encountered within this jungle environment. Utilizing the stored and refined bio-matter, the healing process will now commence."
A wave of warmth spread across Usato's injured back as the nanobots, like microscopic surgeons, began to repair the damaged tissue. He could feel a tingling sensation as the torn muscles and nerves were rapidly knit back together. The sharp, searing pain gradually subsided, replaced by a dull ache. Though still weakened and likely bruised, the deep, immediate threat of the back injury receded.
Usato pushed himself up from the ground, testing his back with a cautious movement. It was still stiff and sore, but the debilitating pain was gone. He could move without the immediate fear of further injury in that area. Glancing back at the raging Alpha Wolf, its "Bloody Frenzy" showing no signs of abating, Usato knew he had only bought himself a precious few moments, thanks to Sky's proactive harvesting of the jungle's natural remedies.
As the Alpha Wolf's "Bloody Frenzy" showed no signs of abating, its relentless attacks continuing with undiminished ferocity, Usato knew simply enduring might not be enough. He focused his thoughts on Sky. "Sky, this 'Bloody Frenzy' isn't letting up. What are our options? What countermeasures can we try?"
Sky's response was immediate and analytical. "Host, based on my understanding of similar skills, prolonged 'Berserk' states often come with certain drawbacks. While the target's power and aggression are significantly increased, their focus and tactical awareness might be diminished. Here are a few potential countermeasures to consider:"
"1. Exploit the Frenzy: The Alpha's movements, while fast and powerful, might be less controlled. Try to be unpredictable, use feints and dodges to make it expend energy wastefully. Look for moments of overextension."
"2. Target Existing Weakness: The wound inflicted by 'Sudden Strike' is still there. While the 'Bloody Frenzy' might be masking the pain, it could still be a point of vulnerability. Focus attacks on that area if an opening presents itself."
"3. Utilize Specialized Nanobot Configurations: Consider deploying a restraining weapon, such as a temporary nanobot net or binding tendrils, to try and momentarily immobilize the Alpha and create an opportunity for a more decisive attack."
"4. Environmental Tactics: Attempt to maneuver the Alpha into a more restrictive environment or use the terrain to your advantage. Perhaps lure it into a narrow passage or try to use the other wolves as temporary obstacles (though this is highly risky)."
"5. High-Risk, High-Reward Attack: If a clear opening appears, focus all available nanobots into a single, powerful attack aimed at a vital point, such as the eyes or throat. This would be extremely dangerous but could potentially end the fight quickly."
"Host, proceed with extreme caution. The Alpha in its current state is exceptionally dangerous."
"Alright Sky, hear me out: I will waste the Alpha's energy. In the meantime, during my attacks on its wound, deploy nanobots into the wound to devour its blood and energy. Can you do it?" Usato mentally asked Sky, his gaze fixed on the raging Alpha Wolf.
"Are you sure, Host? The moment we do it, some nanobots will uncontrollably explode," Sky responded, its concern palpable in his mental voice.
"I'm so sorry, Sky. I know it's hard for you to..." Usato began, a hint of regret in his thoughts.
"Host, the risks are substantial. We might lose a significant portion of our nanobot reserves in the process," Sky cautioned, its tone heavy with worry.
Usato's expression hardened with determination. "We don't have much of a choice, Sky. The 'Bloody Frenzy' isn't stopping, and the tribe is struggling. We need to take this chance, even if it's risky. It's the only way I see us potentially turning the tide."
A pause hung in the mental air between them, the weight of the decision pressing down. Finally, Sky sighed internally. "Very well, Host. I will deploy the nanobots as you instruct. But be warned, the moment they begin to devour the Alpha's blood and energy, the unstable reaction could trigger unpredictable bursts. Maintain distance and be prepared for sudden explosions. I will focus as much processing power as possible on maintaining control, but there are no guarantees."
Usato nodded grimly, his resolve unwavering. "I understand, Sky. Thank you. Let's do this."
With the risky plan agreed upon, Usato faced the berserk Alpha Wolf with renewed focus, his nanobot daggers held ready. The crimson-eyed creature lunged again, a whirlwind of teeth and claws. This time, however, Usato didn't just evade. He moved backward with practiced agility, his movements honed by his unique training. As he retreated, the nanobot daggers in his hands flowed and reformed, lengthening and solidifying into a sleek spear. With a focused grunt,"NOW" Usato hurled the nanobot spear with precision, aiming directly for the open wound on the Alpha's flank.
The spear struck true, embedding itself deep within the gash. Because the spear was constructed from numerous individual nanobots, they could automatically disconnect from the main structure upon impact and begin to surge into the Alpha's flesh, commencing their perilous task of devouring its blood and energy.
The initial effect wasn't immediately visible, but Usato could sense a subtle shift in the Alpha Wolf's movements. Perhaps a fraction less fluid, a hint of confusion flickering in its crimson eyes. Then, the unstable reaction began. Tiny bursts of golden energy flickered around the Alpha Wolf's wound, like miniature explosions rippling across its dark fur. The creature roared in pain and surprise, its berserk fury momentarily mixed with confusion.
Usato knew this was his chance. The nanobots were working, but the uncontrolled bursts were dangerous, both for the Alpha and potentially for him if he got too close. He had to press this advantage, exploiting the Alpha's momentary disorientation while dealing with the volatile nanobots within its body. The fight was far from over, and the outcome of this desperate gamble was still uncertain.
The nanobot spear, embedded in the Alpha Wolf's flank, began to glow with an internal golden light as the detached nanobots spread through the wound, fulfilling their task. The Alpha Wolf roared again, a sound filled with more agony than fury this time. It thrashed violently, attempting to dislodge the spear and the intrusive nanobots, but the spear was anchored deep, and the microscopic invaders were already at work.
The golden energy bursts around the wound intensified, becoming more frequent and erratic. Chunks of the Alpha's dark fur around the injury began to singe and fall away, revealing raw, blackened flesh underneath. The "Bloody Frenzy" seemed to flicker, its intense crimson aura momentarily dimming as the Alpha recoiled from the internal assault. Its powerful movements became jerky and uncoordinated as its own life force was being consumed from within.
Usato, seeing the Alpha's distress, knew he had a limited window of opportunity. He couldn't get too close due to the unpredictable energy bursts, but he had to keep the pressure on. He shifted his stance, preparing to launch another attack, his nanobots ready to form a new weapon.
Meanwhile, the Evergreen Tribe, witnessing the Alpha Wolf's sudden vulnerability, pressed their advantage against the remaining Dark Wolves. Their totemic powers shone brightly, each member fighting with renewed hope and determination. Kael's massive bear form slammed into a wolf, sending it flying. Gorthok's warhammer cracked against another's skull. Vala's swift strikes found their marks with deadly precision, and Syka's arrows continued to rain down, finding gaps in the wolves' defense. Even Ren, though unawakened, fought bravely, protecting the younger members and using his shield effectively.
The battlefield was still a chaotic scene of struggle, but the momentum had begun to shift. The Alpha Wolf, the seemingly unstoppable force that had descended upon them, was now faltering, thanks to Usato's daring plan and Sky's nanobotic assault.
The Alpha Wolf, weakened by the internal assault of the nanobots and the agonizing pain, thrashed one last time, its "Bloody Frenzy" finally flickering and dying out. Its powerful body shuddered violently before collapsing onto the blood-soaked ground, its crimson eyes now dull and lifeless. A collective sigh of relief swept through the Evergreen Tribe as they witnessed the fall of their formidable foe. The remaining Dark Wolves, their leader defeated, whimpered and began to scatter, their earlier ferocity completely extinguished. The hard-fought battle in the gorge had come to an end.