In that brief moment of hesitation, the shadow insect struck. It launched itself towards Lyra with frightening speed, its form stretching and warping as it closed the distance.
A wave of darkness, edged with ember-like flames, sliced through the air straight for Lyra's skull. The attack was swift and silent, a deadly strike meant to end the fight before it could truly begin.
"You!" Lyra's cry of surprise cut through the air as her battle instincts kicked in.
She twisted away from the attack with preternatural speed, her body moving almost before her mind had fully registered the danger. The starlight gathered on her staff flared brightly, momentarily illuminating the area and revealing the true horror of the creature that had nearly claimed her life.
