The jungle air was heavy with the mingling scents of woodsmoke, flowers, and the faint musk of animals. The steady hum of chirping insects created a calming backdrop as Rai walked along the wooden paths of the Tiger Tribe’s territory. Homes of woven vines and carved wood nestled into the jungle’s embrace, with faint trails of smoke spiraling upward as families cooked their evening meals.
His sharp heterochromia eyes roamed the area, looking for anything out of place, while his tail flicked in lazy arcs behind him. The sun was beginning its slow descent, casting golden streaks through the canopy. He paused briefly to admire the scene, hands resting on his hips, before continuing toward the outer boundary of the village.
As he moved deeper into the undergrowth, his tiger ears twitched, swiveling toward a faint rustling sound nearby. It wasn’t the sound of wind stirring leaves; it was purposeful, deliberate, and irregular—something, or someone, was nearby. His muscles instinctively tensed as he crouched low, his long mane brushing his shoulders.
He followed the sound, moving with fluid grace, his keen senses guiding him. The rustling grew louder as he approached a dense thicket. Peering through the foliage, he spotted a figure lying on the ground, partially obscured by tall grass and fallen leaves.
Rai straightened, his usually calm face now etched with concern. Their appearance was ragged enough that Rai couldn’t immediately tell if they were one of his own tribe or not. Stepping forward cautiously but purposefully, Rai softened his tone, keeping his hands visible to avoid startling them.
— “Are you alright?”
he asked, his deep voice carrying both authority and warmth.
— “Do you need help?”