A silver aura approached from the eastern sector—General Ruan responding to Ethan's signal.
His reinforcement would provide crucial support, but Ethan calculated it wouldn't arrive for at least two minutes.
Two minutes they might not have.
The Serpent reared back for another poison assault, venom glands pulsing as they prepared a larger volley.
Ethan made his decision. Defense had failed. Only offense remained.
"Hold this section!" he commanded the nearest captain. "Reinforcements are coming. Survive until then."
Without waiting for acknowledgment, Ethan vaulted over the battlements. Enhanced Speed activated as he descended, slowing his perception of time to navigate between attacking monsters.
He hit the ground running, Crystal Hardening activated to protect him from any surpise attack.
The Serpent noted his approach immediately, massive head swiveling to track this unexpected development.
