In the middle of the night, a strange noise pulled me from my dreams. My eyes fluttered open, and I stared into the darkness of the cave, trying to pinpoint the source. The noise continued, a low, guttural growl that sent chills down my spine.
I sat up quickly, my heart pounding in my chest, and my eyes widened as I saw the massive silhouette of a creature looming at the cave entrance.
It was unlike anything I'd ever seen, with thick, matted fur and eyes that glowed faintly in the darkness. Panic surged through me, and I was about to scream when a warm hand clamped over my mouth. I looked up to see Zaya crouching beside me, her eyes intense and focused.
"Do not make a noise," she whispered, her breath hot against my ear. "He won't do anything unless you scream."
