The lost soul

VENTURING INTO THE UNKNOWN

As Mano began his journey, he left a trail of glowing mushrooms to mark his path. Not far from the cave there was a bush filled with plump bright red berries. Mano picked one and examined it closely. It looked relatively safe to eat. He pulled out a leather pouch and filled it with as much berries as it could hold. Just as he was about to carry on, he heard a branch snap. His muscles tensed as he darted behind a large tree. Crystal let out an irritated cry. 'Shhh', he murmured in a soft tone, trying his best to soothe her. He peaked around the corner of the tree and what he saw shocked him. A creature measuring 20 feet high emerged from the darkness. It had a long thin face with beady black eyes. Wispy black hair framed its face. Its pale ash leathery skin bore an array of scars. Moss and dead leaves covered its body, helping it to blend in perfectly with its surroundings. Its long black horns were coated with dried blood. Afraid to move a muscle Mano prayed fervently for the creature to continue its journey. An unsuspecting deer was not so fortunate as it crossed path with the monstrous creature. A hungry snarl followed by an eerie howl saw the deer's body ripped to ribbons as the creature's long sharp blackened claws tore into its prey. The dear flayed its limbs helplessly as it was eaten alive. The creature unhinged its jaw showing off its rows of sharp teeth that gleamed in the sunlight, dripping blood. It stood still for a moment staring in Mano's direction. He held his breath praying Crystal would stay quiet. After what felt like eternity the creature finally retreated back into the dark depths of the forest, content with its meal. It was what felt like hours later before Mano let out a sigh of relief, feeling the tension leave his body. He looked down at Crystal, checking to see if she was well. Mano headed in the opposite direction. He did not want to run into the hellish creature. He soon reached the banks of a river. Mano knelt down, filling a few clay jars with water. The riverbank was littered with pebbles and other stones. He collected a few rocks knowing they would come in handy in the future. He surveyed his surrounding one last time, scanning the area for anything that would aid him in both his and Crystal's survival. Following the trail of glowing mushrooms, Mano made his way back to the cave. Praying he would not  face any danger a long the way.