Neka, a curious boy from the crimson hills, encounters a terrifying Beast long feared by his village. Instead of fleeing in fear, he bravely leads the creature into an ancient stone circle, hoping to uncover its secret. There, Neka learns the Beast is not truly a monster but a prisoner of a magical curse. Faced with a choice to keep it bound or free it, Neka chooses compassion over fear, breaking the circle. To everyone’s surprise, the Beast bows peacefully and disappears into the hills, finally free. Neka is remembered not as prey, but as the Guardian of the Hills, the boy who turned a curse into understanding.
Breathless, Neka reached the ancient stone circle, carved with symbols that glowed faintly in the moonlight.
The Beast lunged at him, its claws tearing through the soil.
Neka pressed his hand against one of the stones, and the circle lit up with radiant light.
The Beast froze, trembling as if caught between rage and sorrow.
In that moment, Neka realized the Beast wasn't chasing him out of hunger - it was bound to the curse of the stones.
