Golden eyes scanned the shadows, fur bristling. “Come out,” he growled low, voice carrying authority that would make lesser creatures flee. “I don’t want trouble—but I will end it if I have to.”

Movement answered him before words could. A shadow shifted above, and then a flash of silvered wings — black-tipped feathers catching the moonlight. Chan’s teeth bared involuntarily, instincts screaming. He lunged instinctively, powerful paws digging into the soil as he closed the distance, claws aimed to pin.

The creature leapt, landing on the forest floor with unnatural grace. Its eyes were golden, piercing, and… different. There was an aura around it — light and something darker tangled together. Chan’s hackles didn’t lower, but curiosity prickled beneath the rage.

“You’re trespassing,” Chan said, circling, stance predatory. “I don’t tolerate intruders.”