As the snake's jaws snapped shut, Captain Ruger's battle axes gleamed in the sunlight, raised high above his head. The snake's teeth sank deep into the earth, mere inches from Ruger's face.
"Captain!" the elite fighters screamed in unison, their voices laced with horror.
Garciel arrived just in time, his sword flashing with a magical glow in the sunlight. He struck true, aiming for the snake's wounded neck. The blade bit deep, releasing a spurt of dark blood.
The snake's hiss was ear-piercing, its body thrashing wildly. The attack had struck a vital spot, preventing the snake from moving its head or closing its jaws.
But the snake's fury was far from spent. With a swift motion, it swung its massive head at Garciel, striking him with incredible force.