The beast stood before Nate, its heavy breaths echoing in the dense atmosphere, its powerful muscles twitching as it realized there was no escape. It had been driven into a corner, its usual paths of retreat blocked, its predatory instincts now clashing with the bitter truth that there was only one option left—to fight.
The beast's body was monstrous, its limbs long and sinewy, its sharp, jagged claws glinting under the dim light. Its skin was rough and layered, resembling cracked stone with streaks of dark crimson running along its form. But despite its intimidating presence, Nate had no fear. He had tracked it down, watching its movements, predicting its patterns, leading it to this very moment.
Then, without warning, the beast threw its head back and let out a piercing scream, the sound so loud it sent a sharp pulse through the air.
And then—it charged.