Chapter 30: Mana Unleashed

The beast twisted its head with terrifying speed, its eyes narrowing as it caught sight of Cassie standing atop its back with her blade buried deep in its side. 

She tugged at the hilt of her sword, her muscles straining as she tried to pull it free.

But the blade, buried deep in the creature's side, wouldn't budge. 

Panic surged through her as she tugged harder. She could feel the sword stuck deep in the thick muscle, blood seeping around the blade, warm and viscous.

"Come on! Move!" she muttered through gritted teeth, pulling with all her might. 

The sword refused to move, trapped in the creature's flesh as if the very sinew was holding it hostage. 

The beast let out a low growl as its body shifted beneath her, forcing her to brace herself against the jarring movement.

The beast thrashed its body violently, sending Cassie tumbling off its back. She hit the ground hard, the impact knocking the air from her lungs.