A threat to the tribe

Ignoring the others, she moved swiftly toward the valley's entrance, her heart pounding in her chest. The closer she got, the more oppressive the air became, as though the very atmosphere was resisting her advance.

And then, she saw it.

A tall, shadowy figure, its form shrouded in writhing darkness, moved with an unnatural, silent grace. Shadows began to twist around the figure, stretching like living tendrils.

Belan's eyes widened as soon as she saw the shadows, but she didn't falter.

It was heading toward the edge of the valley, where the sand dunes began. Something about it made her blood run cold, yet she forced herself to follow.

"Stop!" she called out, her voice echoing in the silence.

The figure slowed but didn't turn. Belan quickened her pace, her hand tightening around her sword. But as she got closer, the figure abruptly stopped and turned to face her.

That was when her resolve shattered.