David failed his arms helplessly on the water’s surface, struggling to keep himself afloat. Just as he was about to go under, Mortimer grabbed hold of his arm. He locked his fingers firmly against his palm and pulled with all his strength. But the creature lurking in the water refused to let go of David. Suddenly Mortimer felt something slimy grab hold of his left leg. He tried to kick at it with his right foot, but it landed him in even more trouble. Another slithering tentacle coiled itself around his free leg. Mortimer wriggled in its slimy grasp, trying to break free, but the creature kept pulling him down. It was impossible for him to hold on to David and fight this creature at the same time. And so he had to let go of David’s arm.
Immediately, the creature pulled David under the wat
