The creature’s roar echoed through the barren field, shaking the earth beneath Amara and Damon’s feet. It towered over them, its grotesque form a chaotic blend of shadow and fire. Its glowing red eyes bore into Amara, filled with an unrelenting fury that made her knees buckle.
Damon growled low in his throat, his stance shifting into a protective posture. His body was tense, muscles coiled like a spring ready to strike. Amara’s heart raced as she stood frozen behind him, her light flickering faintly at her fingertips.
“What is that thing?” she asked, her voice trembling.
Damon didn’t look back, his focus locked on the beast. “It’s not just a thing,” he said. “It’s a shadow beast—pure darkness. And it’s after you.”
The creature lunged, its massive claws slashing through the air. Damon s
