For a split second, time seemed to slow down. A small black mamba launched itself upward from the writhing mass of scales. Its jaws unhinged with a sharp pop, catching the hot, coconut-glazed fish flawlessly mid-air before swallowing it in one smooth, undulating gulp.
Ren blinked, standing near her bubbling stockpot. She expected the snake to hiss in pain from the heat, but instead, the mamba settled back onto the ice, flicking its tongue with what looked suspiciously like deep culinary satisfaction.
"Okay, who's next?" Ren asked, a wide grin breaking across her face.
She picked up her wooden tongs and grabbed another fragrant fish from the rich, simmering broth. She tossed it toward a cluster of vipers. A spotted python darted forward, snatching the prize.
"Two points!" Ren cheered, genuinely enjoying the bizarre spectacle.
