After the fourth Hellfire was expended and Noah began reloading, the beast king beat its wings powerfully and surged upward toward the helicopter.
Kiara's hand struck the armrest in satisfaction.
"Yes. Commit to the chase."
She transmitted her next command.
Noah did not hesitate.
Four Hellfire missiles launched consecutively, their exhaust plumes streaking through the air in symmetrical lines.
Baltrow's wings tightened as it erected a stronger barrier this time, thicker and tinged faintly with violet hues.
*Boom*
The first missile detonated.
The barrier held.
The second struck.
*Boom*
Cracks formed along its surface.
*Boom*
The third impact shook the air violently.
*Boom*
By the fourth explosion, the barrier shattered entirely, smoke engulfing the manticore's body.
And then it emerged.
But unscathed.
Its eyes glowed brighter as it continued advancing.
*Trrrrrr*
