**Goshtas Attack**

Jiya has always followed an inviolable morning regimen. She used to get up at precisely six in the morning, stretch, and drink her herbal tea while reading the news. Mimi, her cat, was a reassuring presence in her life; she would curl up next to her. Today, though, was distinct. She froze as she saw the headline, "Goshtas Attack Leaves City in Panic."

An innovative phenomena were the Goshtas. Nobody was certain of their exact appearance or method. These enigmatic animals, which resembled a wolf and a hyena crossed, had been seen for months on the fringes of the city. They were merely a curiosity at first, subject of hoaxes and amateur nature photographers. However, of late, their behavior had gotten more aggressive and their sightings more regular.

Jiya's cell rang. Her friend Priya had sent her a message, telling her to stay inside. They claim that the Goshtas are currently attacking individuals.

Jiya's heart was pounding. She looked at Mimi, who continued to be blissfully oblivious to the mayhem outside. She secured the doors and swiftly shuttered all the windows. Situated on the fifth level of a recently constructed building, her flat had perpetually felt like a stronghold. It felt like a cage today.

The news kept coming in nonstop. Goshtas have allegedly attacked people in parks, on the streets, and even in their houses. Until further notice, the authorities were advising everyone to stay indoors. There was a lockdown on the city.

Jiya cleaned the flat in an attempt to divert her attention, but her thoughts kept returning to the news. Her folks, who were a few hours distant in a little village, crossed her mind. Although she didn't want to bother them, she wanted to call them. Rather, she texted her neighboring brother, Arun.

"Are you alright?" she penned.

Yes, I'm alright. Simply remaining inside like everyone else," he retorted. "How about you?"

The same in this instance. Isn't this absurd?

Indeed. Jiya, be careful. We'll overcome this.

She set her phone aside and made an effort to divert her attention. She took up a book, but the text became jumbled. She flicked on the TV, but she became even more nervous from the nonstop news coverage. She gave up and started to cook. She usually felt calmer after cooking.

She heard someone outside her window as she cut veggies for a hearty stew. The sound was faint but distinct—a deep, rumbling growl. Knife in hand, she froze and turned slowly toward the window. A shadow moved slightly in front of the window.

With her heart racing, she ducked in and glanced out. Two bright eyes gazed back at her. There was a Goshta on her balcony.

Jiya's thoughts were racing. How did it make its way up here? The structure was meant to be safe. She took a hesitant step back, trying not to move too quickly. She saw the Goshta's teeth, which were pointed and scary, as it snarled once more.

Taking out her phone, she called Arun. There's a Goshta on my balcony, Arun, she urgently whispered.

"Jiya, remain composed. Do the doors lock?

Indeed, but it's directly outdoors. How should I proceed?

Make a police call. These are the situations they are managing.

Despite her being invisible to him, she gave a nod and hung up. She rang the emergency number instantly. There was a long line. She made numerous attempts, but received the same result each time.

Fear and confusion whirled through Jiya's consciousness. She had to keep Mimi and herself safe. She went to the kitchen and got a large frying pan, which she grasped hard. This would have to do, even though she wished she had something more solid.

With its growls getting louder, the Goshta was now pawing at the glass. Sensing danger, Mimi arched her back and snarled. Jiya watched the balcony door as she retreated inside the living area.

Hours seemed to stretch into minutes. With its eyes fixed on Jiya, the monster persisted in scratching at the glass. She could see the resolve in its eyes. She was its prey, and it was ravenous.

Suddenly there was a deafening crash. The Goshta jumped into the apartment as the glass door broke. With all her effort, Jiya swung the frying pan and struck the thing on the side. It gave a start, then jerked back, growling and clenching its teeth.

Jiya retreated, her heart pounding. Mimi darted out of sight under the couch. Jiya struck again, hitting the Goshta in the skull as it advanced. Though stunned, the beast staggered but did not flee.

Jiya experienced a burst of resolve at that very moment. She refused to allow fear to rule her. She needed to struggle. She repeatedly swung the pan, getting more violent with each strike. Though it was growing weaker, the Goshta snapped and snarled.

Jiya finally gave the beast a straight blow to the head in a last-ditch effort. It fell to the ground, lifeless. With her hands trembling, Jiya stood there panting. It was her fault. She was alive.

She heard sirens in the distance as her adrenaline started to wear off. At last, the authorities were drawing near. She collapsed on the ground, relieved yet tired. She had overcome her fear by facing it head-on.

Later, Jiya sat on the couch with Mimi in her lap as the authorities secured the building and took out the Goshta. She calmed down and felt at ease as she caressed the cat's fur. Though she believed she could handle whatever happened next, the city remained in a state of anarchy.

IIn order to address the Goshta threat, the authorities worked nonstop in the days that followed. Gradually, the city began to resemble a normal place again. Jiya went back to her routine, but she was different. She had never realized the strength she has within herself.

She also experienced a revitalized sense of purpose every morning as she sipped her herbal tea. She had moved beyond being a bystander in her own life. She was resilient and prepared to take on any obstacles that could arise.