Hydra

The Hydra is a boss fought in Chrono Cross. After beating it, Serge receives the Hydra Humour.

History
The Hydra are a reptilian species that occupy the Hydra Marshes. Their physiology purifies the water of the area, keeping its PH level above acidity. The unique nature of its secretions also allowed them to be used as a panacea on Humans; once El Nido was settled in 920 A.D. by mainlanders, the Hydra were poached. By 1010 A.D., they had been reduced significantly in number. In Another World, the last one was killed some time before 1020 A.D.; the swamp subsequently turned into an acidic mess, and many creatures perished -- despite the efforts of the Dwarf Chieftain who tried to prevent it. In Home World, the last Hydra was killed in 1020 A.D. (by Serge or another); it fortunately was pregnant at the time, and the baby was successfully birthed post-mortem. It was taken care of by the Dwarves thereafter, granting the marshes some degree of hope for the future.

Battle and Strategy
Battling the Hydra requires attention to strategy. Since it uses high-powered elements, namely PutridOdor, the Hydra can devastate an entire party in less than two turns. Arrange elements so as to include plenty of healing spells or consumables and arrange the others to contain offensive Green elements, such as AeroSaucer or Bushbasher. Alternate each party member between offensive and healing. Do not include a Green Element character, such as NeoFio in the party as it will easily faint. Never allow Hit Points below seventy. Once the Hydra is near death, it will cast WaveOfFear and SpiritsUp. The latter decreases the party's defense while the former increases the Hydra's defense. Use the most powerful Techs or Elements allocated to characters at this point.

Name Origin
The was a many-headed dragon in Greek mythology.