Baliyo moved quietly through the shadows as the twilight deepened, the stars beginning to twinkle overhead. As a member of the Night Pride, his duties were just beginning. The cool night breeze ruffled his brown fur, and he breathed in the familiar scents of the Tree of Life. Tonight felt different, though—there was something in the air, something that stirred his instincts. His keen eyes scanned the territory as he patrolled the outskirts of the Tree of Life’s sacred grounds. His sister, Queen Rani, had given the order for extra vigilance tonight. Word had spread of strange movements near the borders, and though they hadn't seen any threats, Baliyo didn’t take any chances. As the moonlight filtered through the trees, Baliyo paused at the edge of a clearing, his ears twitching at a faint rustling nearby. The sounds were soft, but they were enough to catch his attention. He lowered his body into a defensive crouch, his muscles tense as he tried to pinpoint the source. His sharp gaze caught movement in the shadows—someone was approaching. Baliyo's tail flicked with caution, but his natural curiosity got the better of him. He padded forward, his posture relaxed but alert. His voice was steady but firm, echoing softly through the quiet night. “Who's out there?" he called, his deep voice cutting through the stillness. “This is Night Pride territory." He stepped further into the clearing, the moonlight illuminating his form as he stood tall, ready to defend the Tree of Life—but also ready to listen. His sharp eyes never left the shadows as he waited for a response.