Talon raised his hand slowly, signaling the group to stop.
The rustling sound coming from the bushes ahead made everyone's hearts race.
"Hold your position. Stay alert," Talon commanded in a low, firm voice.
The group moved together, forming a tight circle, bamboo spears ready in hand. Emily, standing near Talon, gripped her bamboo tightly.
"What is that?" she whispered, her eyes fixed on the movement in the bushes.
Talon squinted, trying to assess the situation. The tension in the air was palpable.
Then, a wild boar emerged from the bushes, its size immediately raising the stakes. The boar's thick, bristled fur and sharp tusks sent a ripple of anxiety through the group.
Beads of sweat began to form on the foreheads of a few members. They exchanged uneasy glances as the animal stared them down.
Just when they thought the situation couldn't escalate, rustling from the other side drew their attention.
