This is from “Welcome to Anna” one tale in my fantasy anthology, Loves, Myths, and Monsters” published by Melange Books

Chapter 2

“The hounds’ve got somethin’,” yelled Guy.
“Keep those rifles ready and stay with the dogs,” ordered the sheriff. “They’re hot on the trail of somethin’.”
One hour later, the “hot” tracks suddenly disappeared and the dogs lost the scent.
“What the hell do we do now?” Jake asked, wiping away sweat.
“I know this area,” Guy said. “There’s a cave behind a waterfall just over this hill.”
“If anything happens, keep those dogs back,” the sheriff instructed. “The counties done paid enough for dead animals.”
The men and hounds climbed to the hilltop. Once there, they heard the sound of running water.
“A small stream runs through here, leading to the waterfall,” Darrell said, and the men continued.
Minutes later, Jake yelled, “Looks like a cave behind the falls. This could be the animal’s den. Coyotes often hunt in pairs. Better stay close together and load every bullet ya’ got into those damned things. We can’t let them escape the cave if they’re in there.”
Nodding their heads in unison, the men must have realized they were about to look danger””if not death””in the eye. They slowed, none too eager. Once the dogs quieted, the group advanced, led by the sheriff.
By this time, it was getting light, and the men knew if the coyotes were not already inside the cave they would soon return. Checking their weapons once more, they slowly entered, preparing to hide and wait if necessary.
“Turn on your flashlights, men,” instructed the sheriff in a loud whisper lighting up the cave like a Christmas tree. The men gaped””it was huge!
“Let’s look around” Jake suggested, and advanced while the rest hung back.
Their lights further revealed the true size of the cave, further amazing the officers. “From the outside, this is barely noticeable.”
“Do you think it’s a bear?” someone asked.
“How would I know?” the sheriff replied.
Guy, clutching his dog with one hand, held his outstretched weapon in the other, ready for the slightest movement. “Then let’s find out, damn it!”
A spine-chilling scream suddenly echoed throughout the length of the cave.

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