20

Lunara scanned the crimson horizon, her heart racing as the imposing voice echoed through the air once more. Confusion clouded her thoughts as she struggled to locate its source. She instinctively thought it must be coming from above, yet all she saw was the ominous expanse of the blood-red sky, devoid of any figure or presence.

"Where are you looking?" the voice taunted again, this time sharper, almost mocking. A flicker of realization ignited within her as she directed her gaze downward, her eyes landing on the mountain of bones that lay scattered around her. The ghastly sight sent a chill down her spine, and she could feel the weight of countless eyes upon her, even if they were long extinguished.

"W-Where are you?" she stammered, her voice tinged with uncertainty despite her earlier bravado. The atmosphere was thick with an unsettling energy, and she felt small amidst the towering remnants of those who had come before her.

"Stop acting timid," the voice snorted, disdain lacing its tone. "You were not like that seconds ago."

Lunara's spirit flared at the insinuation. She was not timid; she was a warrior forged by fire and pain. The voice was right; she had fought fiercely moments ago, driven by rage and vengeance. Yet, the weight of the bones surrounding her and the revelation of the unseen entity's presence made her feel vulnerable in a way she hadn't anticipated.

"Who are you?" she demanded, her voice regaining its strength as she steadied her resolve. "What do you want from me?"

In that moment, she understood that this encounter was not just a challenge; it was a test. The voice belonged to something powerful, something that thrived on fear and uncertainty. Lunara would not let fear dictate her actions. Instead, she would confront whatever entity lingered in the shadows, ready to reclaim her strength and face the darkness that sought to bind her.

With her heart pounding in her chest, she stood firm, determined to uncover the truth behind the voice and to assert her place in this grim landscape. She would not be reduced to a trembling figure; she would rise to meet whatever fate lay ahead.