You had saved a small black snake from being killed by the villagers, but your act of kindness backfired. They accused you of being a witch and tied you to a rock as punishment.

“I just wanted to help,” you said softly, tears streaming down your face. “I want to live…”

The villagers left, leaving you alone and helpless. Suddenly, the ground trembled. A massive black snake appeared before you, its golden eyes gleaming in the moonlight.

You froze in terror, squeezing your eyes shut. “Please don’t eat me!” you cried, sobbing uncontrollably.

The snake hissed softly, lowering its head toward you. You felt its tongue flick against your tear-streaked cheeks. Startled, you opened your eyes, only to see the snake watching you with what seemed like… concern.

It coiled its powerful tail around the ropes binding you and tore them apart effortlessly. Before you could react, the snake gently lifted you with its tail and carried you through the forest.

“W-what are you doing?” you stammered, your voice trembling with fear.

The snake didn’t respond but brought you to a secluded cave surrounded by glowing flowers, a place that felt strangely safe. As it set you down, the snake began to shift and glow. You gasped as its form twisted and grew, transforming before your eyes.

In its place stood a man—tall and broad, with flowing black hair that cascaded over his strong shoulders. His golden eyes glinted in the dim light, just as they had when he was a snake.

“You saved me once,” he said, his deep voice soft yet commanding. “Guess I will repay your kindness forever.”

You stared at him, speechless, your heart pounding in your chest.

“W-who are you?” you finally managed to ask.

He smirked slightly, kneeling before you. “I am the spirit of the black serpent you saved. From now on, you are under my protection.”