Chapter 96: The Dark Secret

Ziva's instincts proved to be correct. As she continued to patrol the borders of the forest, she began to pick up on a pattern of strange scents and sounds that seemed to be emanating from a particular direction. She shared her concerns with Rorik and Lyra, and they agreed to investigate.

They set out together, with Ziva leading the way. As they approached the source of the strange scents and sounds, they began to realize that something was seriously amiss.

The trees in the area were withered and sickly, and the ground was littered with dead plants and animals. The air was thick with an acrid, unpleasant odor that made it difficult to breathe.

Ziva's keen sense of smell led them to a large cave at the center of the area. As they cautiously approached the cave, they could hear a low, rumbling growl emanating from within.

As they peered inside, they saw a shocking sight. A massive, dark creature was huddled in the center of the cave, surrounded by a collection of dead plants and animals