Rakahn advanced slowly through the frozen forest, every sense on high alert. The mist thickened around him, dark and tangible, like a living trap. A sudden cold breath caught him off guard—a terrifying, overwhelming presence seemed to lurk nearby.
Every fiber of his being urged him to keep moving, to watch for any flicker in the mist that might reveal the elusive shadow.
He briefly caught sight of a figure, shifting between animal and humanoid forms. Rakahn stifled a sarcastic laugh, a challenge cast into the oppressive silence.
"So, is that all? Just a game of hide-and-seek in the mist?"
In response, a beastly, guttural roar echoed through the forest. A massive form suddenly emerged, striking him full force in the flank. The impact sent him sprawling to the ground, his skin seared by an intense cold that penetrated to his very bones.
