Perhaps the most literal “between a rock and a hard place” I’ve read so far

Very enjoyable.

I really enjoyed how you characterized the saurians - it really made them feel distinct and alien instead of just "humans with scales"!

Some blue on blue battles does make it feel a lot more realistic. I did like the character titles given mid-story. Could see this done kind of like Kill Bill with THE CHOSEN ONE etc in bold yellow letters identifying what could essentially be a National Geographic Saurian Life episode. Go Saurians!

Colorful descriptions bring the reptilian races alive. You might just think about shortening the adjective sentences a little for more clarity.