Before the first light of dawn, a soft rustling came from the edge of the valley. Ling's eyes opened instantly.
"Everyone wake up," she whispered, her voice calm but firm. "Something is near. Stay alert."
Han Yi groaned, rubbing his eyes.
"…Already? My body refuses… I just slept!"
Mu Chen sat up quickly, scanning the shadows.
"…I don't see anything yet… but I don't like this."
Yue's eyes darted to the trees at the valley's edge.
"…I feel it… something's moving… slowly, quietly…"
Lei Feng stood, tense.
"…After everything yesterday… we can't let our guard down now."
Ling gestured for them to form a tight circle.
"Keep your weapons ready. Watch the perimeter. No sudden movements."
The rustling grew louder, leaves cracking under something heavy.
Suddenly, a pack of strange, wolf-like creatures appeared, moving fast and silent. Their fur was dark, almost blending into the shadows, and their eyes glowed faintly in the dim morning light.
Han Yi's voice trembled.
