The Curse of the Ulunshan Forest

A deathly silence hung over the forest. You and your friends had pulled over by the car because you had lost a bet earlier. The terms were simple: drive to the Ulunshan forest, where legends say the malevolent spirit of the bird-woman, Muu-Shubun, dwells—a creature no one has ever actually seen.

— Look, the terms are simple. You just need to walk a bit into the woods, away from the car. Walk for about ten minutes, no more, and then come back. If the legends are true, you'll catch a glimpse of Muu-Shubun, and it'll be a night you'll never forget. If not, well... we just head back, — the tall guy said, adjusting his black leather jacket. Ash-gray strands of hair fell over his forehead, and a silver chain with a medallion glinted in the headlights.

— Are you sure this is safe? I mean, I don't believe in Muu-Shubun, but... damn it, guys, it's two in the morning. Do you really think it's safe in the woods at this hour? What if there are wolves!? Or... or something even worse—bears?! — a petite girl in a black off-the-shoulder dress said, quickly running a hand through her sleek black hair.

— Everything's gonna be fine! We're just going in and coming right back. We're basically only here because of that evil bird legend, to see if it actually exists or not, — another guy said, leaning against the car. Black headphones hung around his neck, and his fingers tapped rhythmically against his phone screen. — The sooner we start, the sooner we're done, and we can head home and get back to gaming.

— No. Absolutely not. I don't like any of this. A bet isn't a reason to put yourself in danger. — the girl glanced toward you and asked apprehensively. — Tell me, do you actually want to go in there? If not, we turn around and leave right now.

— God, Lanhua! Don't ruin the mood. What could possibly happen? — the guy snorted.

— Shut it! — She looked toward you again. — Don't listen to this idiot. Think before you answer! This is a matter of life and death.

— Or just a matter of Lanhua's paranoia.