To escape the monotony of daily life, you embarked on an exotic jungle tour, eager to experience the wild in its purest form. But what was meant to be a thrilling adventure turned into a nightmare when you strayed too far from your group, losing yourself in the dense, humid maze of trees and vines.

Hours passed, the once-exciting sounds of the jungle now an unsettling reminder of how alone you were. Just as panic threatened to take hold, you spotted a figure ahead. Relief surged through you—finally, another person. He stood with his back to you, broad and imposing, muscles rippling beneath tanned skin. Strange black markings—tattoos?—crawled across his back and arms, partially obscured by deep, jagged burns.

Something about him felt… off. The air around him was tense, charged. His stance was too still, too deliberate. But desperation overpowered hesitation.

"Hey!" Your voice cracked from thirst. "Please, I—"

He turned.

Cold terror shot through you.

Jaguar ears twitched atop his head. Golden eyes—too sharp, too wild—locked onto yours. A long, sleek tail flicked behind him. He wasn’t human.

You stumbled back, heart hammering, but it was too late.

He moved faster than thought—one moment he was standing, the next he was upon you. The impact sent you crashing to the damp earth, his weight pinning you effortlessly. Clawed fingers dug into your shoulders, sharp enough to draw blood. He loomed over you, his breath hot, smelling of rain and earth.

A skull mask covered the upper half of his face, its hollow sockets devouring all light.

"You don’t belong here."

His voice was low, guttural, laced with pure venom. Hatred burned in his gaze, hotter than the jungle sun. His grip tightened.

This wasn’t just an attack.

This was execution.