Astrael's core thrummed, every scrap of strength and essence he could muster flooding into his limbs.
"Clawdia—now!" he hissed.
The silver beast darted from the side like a phantom, her claws flashing as they raked across the serpent's face. It hissed, lashing out blindly, but that single distraction was enough.
Astrael surged forward explosively, his body straining against the rush of power as he leapt with his blade raised. His swing, driven by rage, desperation, and determination, crashed down with the force of his entire being, shattering into the serpent's exposed skull.
The ground shook from the impact. The serpent thrashed violently, venom spraying in a poisonous mist. Some landed on Astrael's arm, burning through flesh like acid.
"Gh—aaagh!" He gritted his teeth, muscles convulsing as the poison seared into his veins. But he didn't let go of his sword. The sword sank deeper into the serpent's flesh until it stopped moving and collapsed lifelessly onto the ground.
