The Shadow in the Woods
In the dense, shadowy woods of Pine Ridge, rumors swirled of a creature that lurked in the darkness. Some called it the Shadow Beast, a phantom with eyes like burning coals and a roar that chilled the bravest hearts. Others dismissed it as mere legend, a tale to scare children into obedience.
But on the night of the full moon, the veil between myth and reality thinned.
Elena, a wildlife photographer, ventured into Pine Ridge to capture the beauty of the untouched wilderness. As she set up her camera near a tranquil stream, a rustling in the bushes caught her attention. She raised her camera, hoping to capture a glimpse of a deer or a fox.
Instead, a pair of glowing eyes met hers from the shadows. She froze, the hairs on the back of her neck standing on end. The creature emerged — a massive black bear, its fur matted and unkempt, its eyes filled with a primal hunger.
Elena’s heart raced as she fumbled for her bear spray. The bear stood on its hind legs, towering over her, emitting a low, guttural growl. She backed away slowly, her eyes never leaving the beast.
Just as she thought the bear would charge, a gunshot shattered the silence. The bear roared in pain and fury, turning to face its attacker. Through the trees, Elena saw a man, his rifle smoking in the moonlight.