But something gnawed at him. Where was the system notification? Why hadn't he felt that familiar rush of power?
Arthur froze. The Serpent's body was too still. Too quiet. Slowly, realization dawned. He turned, eyes narrowing just in time to see the Serpent's jaws snap shut, crushing the salt crystal inside.
"Currrseee Youuuuusssss!" it hissed, voice ragged but alive. Before Arthur could move, the Serpent lunged, its massive maw catching his arm. There was a sickening crunch.
Arthur roared in pain as the creature tore through his thick hide, ripping his arm clean from his body. Blood poured into the water, thick and black, clouding his vision. The Serpent thrashed again, and Arthur's mind blanked with agony.
But something stirred within him. Rage.
