Phantom Hollow Beings that live off our fears

He finally stopped, panting heavily. Ever since his brother's death, he kept seeing some white canine stalk him from the distance. It was strange, as he couldn't determine the canine's species by its scent: it had none. With an exhausted grin, he turned back to the river. He had no idea of the canine's swimming abilities, but he didn't see that...whatever it was anywhere close. He would be safe for a few hours at the very least.

With a turn of his head, he looked into the foggy forest awaiting him. He felt his breathing shallow and finally noticed how cold the area was, causing the fur on his back to stick up. It was as if he drowned in the river, and he was in front of some kind of afterlife. He nervously shifted his feet, thinking if he should continue further. While the dead silence would mean he could hear anything coming, it seemed too...unnatural to be here. He finally ignored his uneasiness and started to walk. He wanted to get through this forest as fast as he could.