The tail came down with devastating force.
Everyone watching thought for certain that Neve would be crushed underneath the massive serpent limb. Cael's heart stopped. Aldric held his breath. Maren's eyes went wide with horror. They all froze in place as they watched everything.
The impact was earth-shattering. The ground cracked beneath the weight of Zyreth's tail. Dust and dirt flew up into the air, obscuring the area where Neve had been standing.
"NEVE!" Cael screamed, pulling against his bonds. His leopard instincts roared to life. He tried to break free, to run to Neve's side, but the ropes held firm. "NO! NEVE!"
Aldric closed his eyes, unable to watch. He had thought Neve was fast. He had thought maybe the red panda could dodge. But Zyreth's tail was too massive. Too powerful. There was no way anyone could have survived that direct hit.
Jereth and the other snake beastmen laughed, celebrating what they assumed was a confirmed kill.
