Chapter 48: Dangerous Confrontation

The creatures halted, their eyes widening slightly in surprise. One stepped forward, raising its hands in a gesture of peace.

"Wait," the first creature said, its voice a mix of urgency and caution. "We mean you no harm. We are in need of your help."

Renzor narrowed his eyes, studying them carefully. They didn't seem hostile, but he remained wary. "Goblins? why should I trust you?" he asked, his grip on the dagger unwavering.

The second creature stepped forward, its golden eyes locking onto Renzor's. "Because," it said softly, "our lives depend on it."

"What do you mean? Goblins asking for help? That's a first," Renzor said, his tone skeptical.

The first goblin nodded. "Yes, we are desperate. We saw your giant friend that just disappeared, and we were hoping he could help us," he said, his voice pleading.

"Shadow tendrils," Renzor whispers, a dozen shadows extend from each of the goblin shadows, like snakes the tendrils wrap around the goblins.