This time Cockatrice waited. This time Cockatrice forced the Rooster to go higher than he had ever gone before. But the Rooster pounded the air, and he did go higher than he had ever gone before. He made no sound. Neither did the demon above him. Cockatrice cried no challenge. He bided his time and waited.
The third flight lasted forever.
Then Cockatrice was waiting no longer. Everyone was watching; yet no one knew when the dive had begun. Deadly, and as silent as time, Cockatrice hurtled from the roof of the sky.
Who was left to believe that Chauntecleer could escape the plunging Blitzschlange? But yet everyone pleaded in his soul, wished that Chauntecleer would try, would dodge.
But he didn't. The Rooster hung still upon the air as the demon closed distance, shooting at him. Nor did he even straighten his flight. As if in a dream he regarded Cockatrice; and then, just before the murderous strike, he rolled over on his back with his claws {and spurs} above him.
CRACK!
--The Book of the Dun Cow by Walter Wangerin Jr.