The serpent possessed that horrible capacity to absorb energy from defeated beasts, and Taro appearing at the beginning created a stamina problem for Ren specifically against this team composition.
It was a threat that converted each of Ren's decisions into calculations not just of risk but of energy efficiency. He didn't just have to worry about winning all the individual battles using his beasts in the correct order, but about ensuring each battle was clean and efficient.
Ren was virtually alone in this battle. His team knew it… he could see understanding in their faces when they gathered briefly before the matchup began. They couldn't do anything except trust in him, hoping that his capabilities would be sufficient to overcome odds that didn't particularly favor them.
Ron approached first, his expression serious but determined. "Just tell me what you need me to do."
