Chapter 41: Attacked

I froze, my breath caught in my throat as the pair of red eyes gleamed in the darkness. The presence lurking in the shadows sent shivers down my spine, and a sense of impending danger washed over me. I had stumbled upon something I shouldn't have, and now I had to face the consequences.

"Who's there?" I repeated, my voice more firm this time, trying to hide the fear that threatened to consume me. But the figure remained silent, only the eerie red glow of its eyes piercing through the darkness.

My mind raced, considering my options. I could try to run back the way I came, but I didn't even know if that was the right direction anymore. The woods were vast and unfamiliar, and the last thing I wanted was to get even more lost. On the other hand, staying where I was meant facing the unknown entity in front of me.

Summoning my courage, I took a step forward, my voice steady but laced with trepidation. "Show yourself! Who are you?"

As if in response, a low, guttural growl reverberated throug