Back with Viola, the shadows between the ancient trees began to shift and ripple.
From every direction, dozens monsters emerged from the gloom.
They advanced slowly, cautiously, well aware that their prey was now cornered and had nowhere left to run.
Kirian's expression turned sharp and wary.
His fingers moved swiftly, drawing an arrow from his quiver and nocking it against the taut string of his recurve bow. He raised the weapon and fired shot after shot, hoping to pierce the creatures' hides or at least drive them back.
But no matter how many arrows he released, it wasn't enough. The creatures were simply too numerous, and his attacks barely slowed their advance.
His arrows were useless against them.
