Darkness

Darkness shrouded the forest like an oppressive blanket, the distant howls of monsters haunting the night. Blake's heart hammered against his ribs as he stood at the ready, makeshift weapon in hand.

"Jay," he whispered, eyes darting between the shadows cast by gnarled trees, "how far are they?"

"Approximately 200 meters away and closing fast," Jay replied, his voice steady despite the impending danger.

Blake clenched his jaw, sweat trickling down his temple. Three monsters at once – that was a tall order for someone with his limited experience. But running wasn't an option either; he'd never be able to outrun them. He needed an edge, something that would tip the scales in his favor.

"Think, think!" Blake muttered, scanning the forest floor for any useful objects or advantageous terrain. "There has to be something I can use."

As Blake's gaze swept over the darkened woods, he noticed a cluster of large, moss-covered rocks nearby. If he could lure the monsters there and use the rocks to hinder their movements, it might give him the upper hand.

"I've got an idea," he said, breathing heavily from a mix of fear and excitement. "I'm going to lead them to those rocks. They'll have a harder time ganging up on me if they can't move freely."

"Sounds like a solid plan," Jay agreed. "Just remember to stay focused and keep your wits about you."

"Right." With a deep breath, Blake steadied his trembling hands and prepared himself for the onslaught.

"Here they come," Jay warned, just as the first guttural growl reached Blake's ears.

The sound sent a shiver down his spine, but he refused to let fear control him. As the monsters closed in, Blake steeled himself for the battle ahead, every muscle tensed and ready to spring into action.

"Let's do this," he whispered, a fierce determination burning within him.