A Gentle Step Back

My fingers unclasped with a soft tremor, and a sudden breath filled my chest. Directly before me, a fearsome horned creature loomed with claws outstretched, separated only by a tiny companion and a brave figure in red standing steadfast. My heart fluttered with dread—oh, goodness! Instinctively gathering my poise, I stepped backward along the cool tile, smoothing down the folds of my gown. Even as my hands trembled slightly, I lifted my chin to stand gracefully beside the figure in front of me.