But it wasn't just the British they had to worry about. A series of gruesome murders had taken place in the countryside, with reports of a massive, wolf-like creature stalking the night. The locals were terrified, and Claire couldn't help but feel a shiver run down her spine as she thought about the stories she'd heard.

Jamie nodded thoughtfully. "I know what you mean. I've seen things too. But we'll face whatever is out there together, aye?"

Jamie raised an eyebrow. "You don't believe in the superstitions of the locals, do you?"

Jamie sheathed his sword, his eyes still fixed on the creature's retreating form. "Aye, I think we've just met the Beast of Cumberland."

As they spoke, a twig snapped in the underbrush nearby. Claire's heart skipped a beat as a massive, shadowy form emerged from the trees.

Claire hesitated, unsure of how to share her concerns. "It's just... I've been thinking about the creature. What if it's real? What if we're not just dealing with a ordinary animal?"

As the sun set over the rolling hills of Cumberland, Claire and Jamie Fraser made their way through the dense forest, their horses' hooves quiet on the damp earth. It had been weeks since they'd escaped from the British at Prestonpans, and they were still trying to make their way to France, where Jamie's family had a farm.

The creature was huge, its eyes glowing in the dark. Claire felt a scream rising in her throat as Jamie drew his sword, ready to defend them.