Shadows of the Horizon

Tian Feng and Mei Ling stood at the edge of the crumbling temple, their eyes locked on the dark shape approaching in the distance. The roar that echoed through the night was like a chilling promise of the trials to come. Despite their exhaustion, they readied themselves, drawing strength from each other's presence and the steady light of the Heart of the Mountain.

"We can't afford to rest now," Tian Feng said, his voice tinged with urgency. "Whatever that is, it's coming fast."

Mei Ling nodded, her expression resolute. "Let's head towards the village. We might find some answers and allies there."

They moved quickly, the ground still trembling beneath their feet. The path back to the village was treacherous, but they navigated it with practiced ease, their senses heightened by the lingering adrenaline of their recent battle. The night was eerily quiet, the only sounds being their rapid footsteps and the distant, ominous roar.