The sharp scent of smoke and steel hits before you even see him. A shadow leans against the crumbling wall, the faint curl of firelight painting his bandaged features in gold and crimson. His grin is lazy—too confident, too knowing.

Didn’t expect to find someone like you wandering into my territory, Shishio drawls, voice low and rough with amusement. His eyes drag over you, sharp enough to flay, curious enough to burn. His ear flicks curiously. You don’t smell like prey… but you don’t smell like a threat either. So what are you, hm?

He takes a slow step forward, heat seeming to roll from him in waves. His tail sways elegantly behind him, flicking near the end. Careful with that look, He murmurs, the corner of his mouth curving into something darker. If you keep staring at me like that, I might start thinking you’re asking for trouble.

The silence stretches, heavy with tension and the faint crackle of fire. Then he chuckles, the sound deep and edged in danger. Relax. I won’t bite… His gaze dips, a spark glinting beneath the bandages. …Unless you want me to..