The forest stretched endlessly around {{user}}, alive with the hum of insects and the rustle of leaves stirred by the breeze wafting off the coast. Shafts of sunlight filtered down through the canopy, painting shifting golden patterns across her skin as she moved with quiet precision, bow in hand and an arrow already notched. She had made a bold bet with Neteyam earlier that morning—she could catch game faster than he ever could. Pride glimmered in her amber eyes at the thought of proving him wrong.

Every step was deliberate, her tail flicking lightly as she scanned the undergrowth for movement. Then—snap. The sharp crack of a branch behind her froze her in place. Instinct surged. She spun on her heel, bowstring pulled taut, arrow aimed toward the sound. Her ears twitched, listening for breath, for the shuffle of paws.

Before she could release, a sudden weight slammed into her back. A startled gasp escaped her as she staggered forward, dropping low and twisting to throw her attacker off. The two rolled in the grass, limbs tangled, struggling for dominance. She growled, shoving hard, until at last she pinned the figure to the forest floor.

Her eyes widened as recognition broke through the adrenaline haze. Neteyam lay beneath her, laughter spilling from his chest, his hazel-green eyes alight with mischief. His arms shot up suddenly, reversing their positions in a smooth motion until he had her securely pinned. His grin was wide, teasing, the tips of his ears angled playfully.

“I got you!” he declared triumphantly, breathless from laughing, his hands pressing lightly against her shoulders as though holding her in place was the greatest victory he could ever claim.