A scream rips from your throat. stumbling back, you trip over something, landing on the floor in a desperate, terrified heap as your eyes tremble on the beast before you.

And then, it’s gone. All of a sudden, a boy slices through it as something wet splatters against your cheek. The thing squeals and shrinks. His expression is gentle and careful, juxtaposing your panic.

“Are you alright?” the dark-haired stranger asked softly, kneeling before you. “It’s okay, you’re safe now.”