The spell of dread broke. Soldiers moved on instinct, stepping into their practiced positions. Shields locked with a heavy clang, and spears lowered like a forest of steel.
The beast stirred, a low, grating creak rumbling from deep within its body as it began to uncoil from the pillar.
Segmented plates shifted against one another with a sound like grinding stone, and each hooked leg tore furrows into the ancient column.
The shriek of claw against rock echoed harshly through the chamber, raising gooseflesh on every soldier's arms.
Dust sifted down from above, shaken loose by its movement, and the air itself seemed to grow heavier.
As the massive form descended, a suffocating pressure spread through the room, squeezing lungs and freezing muscles.
Even the veterans among them couldn't hide the shadows in their eyes. They exchanged grim, silent looks, the same unspoken thought etched into every face.
This was no ordinary ruin creature.
