Suddenly, a low growl echoed through the trees, causing the entire party to freeze. A massive creature emerged from the underbrush a dark, hulking beast with matted fur and glowing red eyes. Its snarl reverberated through the air, sending a jolt of fear through the group.
"Get ready!" Kael shouted, positioning himself between the beast and Evelyn, his sword drawn and poised for battle. The creature lunged forward, its powerful jaws snapping just inches from Kael's face. With quick reflexes, he sidestepped the attack and slashed at the beast's flank, but the creature was agile, using its momentum to turn and face him again.
"Form a circle!" Evelyn commanded, her voice cutting through the rising tension. "Don't let it surround us!"
The warriors quickly moved into position, creating a protective formation around their leader. The beast snarled and paced back and forth, its eyes flickering with malice as it assessed its prey.
