I kneel on the dry forest floor and touch the dark red liquid, which I assume is spilled blood. I bring my fingers to my nose, and as I catch the metallic scent, my intuition is confirmed. I turn to the woman behind me, my hunting partner, who watches with a serious and curious gaze. I nod.

— They weren't lying when they said it was recent. — I stand up, narrowing my eyes, trying to see beyond the shadows surrounding us.