From the shadows, a figure staggered forward. At first glance, it resembled one of the villagers—its frame thin and hunched, its skin the same earthy tone. But as it emerged into the faint light, its unnaturalness became clear.
Its eyes were dull and lifeless, staring forward without focus. Its movements were jerky, as though strings were pulling it along. And though its mouth never moved, a hollow, echoing voice filled the room, sending chills down the spines of everyone present.
"Offer yourselves to me," the voice demanded, reverberating as if spoken from the depths of a cavern. "You cannot escape. You cannot resist. Submit, and you will know peace."
Lana's eyes widened slightly, her hands instinctively moving to prepare a spell, while Allison growled low, her claws flexing in readiness.
