Chapter 36: Eyes Like red moons

Talia The red eyes had to be something like a willow wisp, even though they were getting closer. Willow wisps, according to folklore, existed in the forest, and one such as this would definitely not be so far-fetched. Scratch that. I was wrong. There were definitely red eyes. Then I heard it: the low, guttural growl of the beast. My heart leapt into my throat, and I froze, every muscle tensed. The beast stepped into the small clearing where I had collapsed. Its massive form was barely visible in the dim light, but its eyes glowed with a predatory intensity. I could see its muscles rippling under its fur, its teeth bared in a snarl. I was sure this was the end. It was tall, the same way she had described it. Seven feet, she said, but this one was more than that. It was at least nine or maybe ten. It towered over me so much so I had to crane my neck backward to look at it. Black fur covered its body, and its large, powerful thighs propelled it forward. To my surprise and my great ex