Rising from the Ashes BY Only For You

"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 on. Besides, we have tried everything by now, and we still haven't been able to kill it."

He scoffed. "You outsiders come in with a few fancy gadgets and suddenly think you're invincible. In the end, you'll just wind up as that thing's next meal."

That contemptuous tone hit Ralph like a slap, and his face flushed red with rage. "You hillbilly bastard, are you seriously looking down on me? The reason you haven't killed that freak is because you Patoajo bumpkins are useless!

"Look at those pieces of junk you call weapons. They're nothing more than sparklers! When I get back to the city, I'll bring submachine guns and grenade launchers. Hell, I'll blow that freak sky high, ghost or not!"

in our territory? Do you really think ticking off the locals here is

Patoajo warriors exchanged

hard, realizing he had gone too far.

to say something

explanation, Logan stepped in front of Ralph and delivered a massive slap that made the latter

219

Ralph, who'd just taken a brutal hit, was furious

blade in his hand with bloodshot eyes, pointing it straight

Andrew remained expressionless

two

up against the blade. "What? You want to takea swing at me? Go

was ice-cold

and his hand holding the blade trembled twice before he ultimately could not bring himself to strike, reluctantly lowering

you son of a bitch,