The heavy footsteps drew closer, their echo mingling with the steady rhythm of Adrian's pulse. His grip tightened on his sword as the growl rumbled again, a deep, menacing sound that made Selene shrink further into his side.
"Hurry," Adrian commanded in a low and urgent voice. He motioned for Selene to run in front of him, his body moving to shield her.
She didn't hesitate, sprinting ahead as her feet pounded the forest floor. Adrian followed closely behind, his eyes scanning the dense trees for any sign of the beast.
But nothing came after them—just the unsettling sound of movement, always just behind them, never revealing itself. It was as if the creature was toying with them, letting them know it was there without fully revealing its presence.
They ran for what felt like miles, the mountain looming closer with each step.
