While both Cassius and the serpent were in disbelief, the girl went on, her voice pitching higher as if she were trying to sell it a cursed teapot in a shady market.
"Just, just look! Look at me, Mr snake!" She jabbed a finger toward her own body. "See? Even though my top half is human, my bottom half is completely snake! Watch, I'll prove it!"
She wiggled her tail, the tip flicking back and forth like a child showing off a new toy. Then, with a determined look, she slithered a little circle on the ground.
"See? Ta-da! Snake! Half-snake, just like you!" She spread her arms wide, beaming with desperate pride. "I'm the same as you! We're family! Snake buddies! Same species!"
Cassius's mouth fell open.
And then she added, in a muttered tone, "But of course, I'm not as big and scary as you, though...and also not nearly as ugly."
Cassius nearly choked. 'Did she just insult a Leviathan's face?!'
But she wasn't done.
"I'm much cuter. Much more beautiful, too!"
