The night was unnervingly still as James stood atop the village walls, his heart pounding in anticipation. The villagers were quiet, their fear palpable as they waited for the inevitable attack. The thick forest that surrounded their home seemed to hold its breath, the dark shadows between the trees hinting at the horrors that lurked within.
James scanned the treeline, every muscle in his body tense. The ominous sound of heavy footsteps, each one making the ground tremble, echoed through the silence. It was a sound that grew louder and more foreboding with every passing second, signaling the approach of the monstrous force they had feared.
"Everyone, get ready," James called out, his voice steady despite the rising dread in his chest. The villagers along the walls nodded, their expressions a mix of determination and fear. Archers readied their bows, and warriors gripped their weapons tighter, preparing for the coming battle.