Story 379: The Beast Unleashed

The roar echoed through the air, reverberating off the crumbling walls of the stronghold. Zara’s heart pounded as the massive figure stepped into view, its silhouette illuminated by the flickering flames of the detonated charges. Standing at nearly eight feet tall, the creature was a grotesque fusion of decayed flesh and jagged armor. Its eyes glowed an unnatural red, and its clawed hands dragged a rusted steel chain.

“Rowan,” Zara muttered, her voice low but sharp, “keep moving. We can’t let it corner us.”

Rowan tightened his grip on his rifle, his eyes fixed on the monstrosity. “What the hell is that thing? One of the King’s experiments?”

“Most likely,” Zara replied, backing into a defensive position. “Whatever it is, it’s here to stop us.”