As they ventured deeper into the valley, the ground beneath their feet began to change. The rocks grew slick and wet, covered in a thick, dark moss that seemed to pulse with a life of its own. The roots that crisscrossed the path became more twisted, like the tendrils of some ancient, malevolent creature.
Suddenly, there was a rustling sound from ahead, followed by a low, guttural growl. The team halted, weapons drawn, their eyes scanning the darkness.
"Stay together," Lyle ordered, his voice calm but firm.
The growl grew louder, and from the shadows emerged a grotesque creature, its body twisted and deformed, covered in sickly, mottled skin. Its eyes glowed with a malevolent red light, and its mouth was filled with jagged, needle-like teeth. It was hunched over, its limbs long and sinewy, ending in razor-sharp claws.
