Within the Jaws

Cold water beneath. Pressure around my neck. A massive set of teeth held me motionless in the pond. I paused. Assessed the situation. Then, a pulse stirred along my spine. I moved my rear left claw. It worked. Carefully, I flexed my arms, pressing two foreclaws against the pale plastic snout above. The grip did not tighten. It was frozen still. I leaned my weight back against the damp reeds, holding steady.