Chapter 4, Burden: Part 14

While caught off guard, Nina doesn't panic. Years spent studying monster anatomy and behavior, ingrained from her childhood amidst her family's unsettling trade, kick in. Her mind races, comparing this grotesque creature to the myriad of beasts she's encountered in her studies. The creature's elongated limbs, reminiscent of a shadow spider's spindly legs, suggest a reliance on speed and agility. The rotting flesh, however, speaks of a vulnerability - a weakened physical structure. The burning eyes hint at some form of dark energy fueling its actions.

It moves with unsettling fluidity, a quality reminiscent of wraiths, but is physical form, though decaying, is undeniably solid. "Rex, stay close!" she whispers, her voice barely audible above the creature's guttural growls. The creature lunges, its claws slashing through the air where Nina stood a moment before. Her quick reflexes, honed by years of carefully observing the creatures her family bred, allow her to dodge the attack. She uses her knowledge to avoid its attempts at striking her legs, understanding from her studies that many such creatures are unbalanced, their focus centered on rapid movements and close-range attacks. This creature is relying on speed and the element of surprise.

The creature's next attack is predictable, a swipe at her face, but she is prepared. Using a quick and light step she avoids it, forcing it to overextend. She realizes this creature is not relying on raw power, but on calculated movements. A chance to exploit its weakness appears. She recognizes that a direct confrontation would be suicidal. She tells herself that she needs to find a way to disrupt its movements and exploit its weakened state. The whispers of the Shadowfen intensify, weaving a tapestry of fear around her, but Nina's focus remains sharp. The battle is far from over.