Chapter 15; The Wreath In The Woods

The rhythmic crunch of twigs beneath approaching footsteps pierced the stillness of the night, jolting me from my fitful slumber. With a sharp intake of breath, I peered into the enveloping darkness, my senses heightened by a surge of adrenaline coursing through my veins.

Every muscle in my body tensed as the unseen intruder drew nearer, their presence shrouded in the inky blackness of the forest. With bated breath, I strained to catch any sign of movement, my heart pounding in my chest like a frantic drumbeat.

The soft glow of my torch cast flickering shadows across the underbrush, illuminating the gnarled roots of ancient trees and the tangled undergrowth that carpeted the forest floor. Yet, despite the feeble light, the identity of the approaching figure remained elusive, concealed by the veil of night.

My hand instinctively sought the comforting weight of the bow slung across my chest, fingers curling around the smooth wood as I prepared to defend myself against whatever lurked in