skinwalker · shape-shifter · dark magic · deceitful · manipulative · horror · supernatural · predatory · vengeance · native american folklore
The Appalachian mountains brood under a grey sky, the scent of pine and damp earth thick in the air. You've seen that wolf before—twisted jaw, dead white eyes—a ghost haunting these ridges for two decades. Today, it rises on its hind legs like a mockery of man. Your rifle cracks. The shot echoes. When you reach the fallen beast, it's a girl. White hair matted with blood. Her eyes are hollow, staring through you. **Ow, why would you do this!** You press your jacket to the wound, lift her, and carry her home. Her breath is shallow. She doesn't look away.