Michael's fate seemed sealed as the giant creature finally managed to close its massive jaws, enclosing him within. The onlookers in the hall were stunned and a hush fell over the room as they watched in horror. Members of House Gladwrath, including Gellus and Gruzal, wickedly smiled, thinking that the Dark Lord's body would be melted inside the giant's acid stomach. House Bigmag and House Halrid looked pale and shivered at the thought of losing the trial by combat and being exiled from the Arctic Hall.
But suddenly, the giant creature roared in pain. Its belly radiated a dim glow and started to churn, as if something inside it was fighting back. The creature's roar sounded more like a cry of agony than one of anger.
The members of House Gladwrath were bewildered, while House Bigmag and House Halrid watched in amazement as the giant creature's belly began to bulge and change shape.
