The **ground trembled** beneath their feet.
The earthquake had **barely stopped**, but before Manav and Priya could catch their breath, **a new terror arrived.**
A **low growl** rumbled through the air, vibrating through their bones.
From the shadows of the ruined entrance, **a monstrous figure emerged.**
---
He was **massive.**
His body was covered in **thick, crimson fur**, matted with old blood and scars. His **four muscular arms** flexed with raw power, each clawed hand **the size of a human torso.** His eyes—**burning gold, filled with rage.**
Manav and Priya **stared**, frozen for a moment.
The monster **spoke**, his voice a deep, guttural snarl.
*"Where is Dr. Moraeu?"*
Manav took a step forward, his expression unreadable.
*"Who the hell are you?"* he asked, voice cold.
The beast's eyes **narrowed**.
*"Answer me, mortal. Where is she?"*
Priya felt **a chill crawl up her spine.** There was something in its voice—a deep, ancient **hatred.**
Manav didn't flinch.
*"First tell me who the hell you are,"* he said **flatly**.
The monster's nostrils flared.
*"I am Erythros."*
His voice **shook the air.**
*"During the Crimson Nova Disaster, I was one of the creatures that escaped. I am the strongest of them all—stronger than any bioengineered horror, stronger than any mortal. I have spent centuries growing in power, waiting for this moment."*
His claws scraped against the stone, leaving deep **gashes** in the ground.
*"And now, I have returned to end the one who created me."*
Silence.
Priya felt her breath **catch in her throat.**
*"Dr. Moraeu…"* she whispered.
Manav's lips curled into a **smirk.**
*"Let shit come out of your mouth,"* he said, rolling his shoulders.
Then, his **eyes darkened.**
*"I'm gonna fight you."*
Erythros **snarled**, his massive form towering over them.
The **storm outside howled**, lightning flashing across the sky.
And then—
The **battle was about to begin.**
---