Crossbreeding

The Cursed Serpent slowly turned toward Cliff, his yellow eyes gleaming with a mix of calculation and amusement. The water in the basin reflected his face, adding a strange dimension to his already imposing presence. He crossed his arms, his gleaming scales catching the sunlight filtering through the trees.

"You've been here for a while, Cliff," he began, his voice resonating with a gravity that contrasted with the serenity of the garden. "And yet, you still haven't given me an answer to my proposal."

Cliff felt a slight weight settle in his chest. He had hoped to avoid this conversation, at least for a little longer. But the Cursed Serpent was not the type to leave things unresolved. He took a deep breath, searching for the right words.

"I know," he finally admitted, his gaze fixed on the Serpent's reflection in the water. "This isn't a decision I can make lightly."