"But you didn't run or freeze. You stepped forward and squared up like you were ready to fight," Buzz said, locking eyes with Andrew, his tone unreadable.

He added, "I've seen plenty of tough guys among outsiders, but someone like you, Mr. Lloyd, this is a first for me."

Andrew smiled. "Like you said, it's just a beast. And beasts aren't anything to be afraid of."

Buzz shook his head, his face looking ominous and uncertain in the flickering torchlight. "That's no ordinary beast—it's a man-eating monster. We lose at least three hunters or children every year to that creature's bloody jaws."

Ralph stood up shakily with help from Logan's two men, gritting his teeth as he roared, "That damn beast better not let me catch it. When I get back, I'm bringing people to level this entire forest and skin it alive!"

Buzz sneered. "This primitive mountain forest backs up against an entire mountain range, stretching thousands of miles. Do you seriously think you can level this place? Dream