Story 415: The Howl in the Dark

The tremors in the tunnel grew stronger, shaking dust and debris from the curved ceiling. Rook steadied himself against the wall, his shotgun ready, while Shadow crouched low, her blades glinting faintly in the flickering light. The distant roar reverberated through the tunnel, a guttural sound that sent chills down their spines.

“What now?” Rook muttered, his voice tight with unease.

Shadow’s sharp eyes scanned the shadows ahead. “Whatever it is, it’s big. We need to move—now.”

They broke into a cautious jog, the narrow confines of the tunnel amplifying every step. The distant roar turned into a series of growls, low and menacing, echoing closer. The creature wasn’t just behind them; it was hunting them.

Suddenly, the faint light ahead revealed a junction where the tunnel split into three paths. Shadow skidded to a halt, her mind racing. “Which way?”

Rook glanced back, his instincts screaming that they didn’t have time to debate. “Left looks clear—”