"I'm not moving!" Dylan insisted.
With no other choice, the two sides were locked in a standoff for nearly half an hour.
Finally, an archer fired a tranquilizer dart, aiming for a spot the two boys couldn't cover. It struck Monty's belly, and the startled python began to thrash wildly.
A group of men moved the surrounding bonfires closer to Monty, making him even more agitated.
Countless more tranquilizer darts flew through the air. The two boys watched with wide, grief-stricken eyes as Monty lost control. Before the tranquilizers could take full effect, he swiped at a bonfire, sending flames onto the dry branches. They caught instantly, as if doused in gasoline.
Seeing this, the chief immediately ordered, "Put out the fire, quickly!"
But the wind fanned the flames, and the fire grew larger. Monty lay there, barely breathing.
His whole body was paralyzed.
The snake's head rested on the ground, its eyes still open.
