Rowan's eyes fell on a terrifying dark creature that materialized several meters from him. Its head resembled that of an ancient owl, complete with a piercing red gaze that seemed omniscient. From the base of its head, the rest of its form was composed of nothing but swirling dark mist.
At the sight of the strange being, Rowan startled so suddenly that he nearly lost his footing.
Despite his abrupt movement, the creature held its ground, its gaze locked on him without the slightest twitch. It felt both lifeless and alive simultaneously.
Confused, Rowan regained his composure and studied the creature with curious eyes.
'I heard a voice earlier—did it come from this strange-looking creature?'
Rowan wondered as his eyes stayed fixed on the owl-faced being.
"Strange creature? Is that how you greet an old friend?"
The same voice spoke again, startling Rowan. His eyes remained on the owl-faced creature, and he hadn't seen its mouth move.
