THE CURSED ONE.

ring the warm sunlight that speckled the woodland floor. The peaceful murmur of a nearby stream eased her senses, and Evelyn felt a deep sense of calm sweep over her. Evelyn had embarked on th

atural world's rhythm. Evelyn's tranquil daydream was abruptly broken by a frightening growl from the distance. The hair on the back of her neck stood on edge, and a shiver ran up her spine. Evelyn stopped in her stride and studied the foliage, her eyes straining to see through the growing shadows. A gigantic, shadowy figure emerged from the deep vegetation, its eyes gleaming with raw, predatory ferocity. Evelyn's breath froze in her throat as she realized the beast in front of her was considerably more powerful and dangerous than an ordinary animal. The beast's muscular frame and raw, animalistic energy sent shivers down Evelyn's spine, and she realized she was in serious danger at that moment. Evelyn's instincts kicked in, and without hesitation, she turned and bolted. But the creature was faster, with its massive muscles propelling it forward at breakneck speed. The beast pounced in a rush, clamping down on Evelyn's arm with its huge teeth. Evelyn let out a cry of terror and agony that echoed throughout the dense woodland. The pain was excruciating, and she struggled against the creature's tight grip, her claws raking at its fur-covered body. Evelyn felt blood streaming down her arm as the beast's jaws sank deeper. Evelyn summoned all of her might and landed a desperate blow to the creature's face, causing it to relinquish its grip briefly. She fell to her feet, her damaged arm clutched against her chest, and took advantage of the moment. The adrenaline pouring through her veins drove her motion as she pushed through the dense vegetation, her lungs burning with each labored breath. Branches and thorns ripped at her skin, but Evelyn refused to slow down, motivated by a basic desire to flee the ferocious beast that had assaulted