He didn't run to Amain and send him flying with a push.
There wasn't enough time for that.
Instead, he swung his axe at the mantis charging toward Amain.
With all his might, he struck with the axe...
Crack!
The axe embedded.
Simultaneously, the axe handle broke.
Phili stared dumbfounded at the handle-only axe remaining in his hand.
The mantis didn't stop.
The shield was in tatters and he'd lost his axe.
What should he do now?
Then, his conversation with Teacher Snake flashed through his mind like lightning.
'If it becomes a really desperate situation, just throw your body in.'
'What? How can I do that against a monster...'
'Your strength is incredible right now. Punch it, strangle it, whatever.'
'Yes...'
Though he answered, he had neither the confidence nor intention to do so.
Fighting hand-to-hand with a monster.
