The deeper they traveled into Shadowroot Forest, the darker the path became.
Strange glowing plants grew along the ground. Some trees had twisted shapes that looked almost alive.
Arian kept looking around nervously.
"Why is this forest so quiet?" he asked.
Draven answered calmly.
"Because most animals avoid this place."
Lyra touched one of the glowing plants.
"Shadowroot Forest is filled with ancient magic," she explained. "Many creatures here are not natural."
Suddenly, Arkon stopped walking.
"Something is wrong," he whispered.
The ground began to shake slightly.
Branches above them started moving even though there was no wind.
Then a deep growl echoed through the forest.
Arian felt his heart beat faster.
"What was that?"
Draven slowly drew his swords.
"A guardian beast."
From behind the trees, a giant creature stepped into view.
It was nearly three times the size of a horse.
Its body looked like a mixture of wolf and bear, covered in dark fur and glowing red markings.
Sharp claws dug into the ground as it growled.
"The Shadow Beast," Arkon said quietly.
"It guards this part of the forest."
The creature's glowing eyes locked onto Arian.
And then it charged.