The moon hung low over the dense, ancient forest, its silver light filtering through the canopy in soft ribbons. Kaelira moved silently, her bare feet brushing against the mossy ground without a sound. The air was alive with the quiet hum of nocturnal creatures, and her sharp eyes caught every flicker of movement. This was her domain, a sacred expanse where mortal feet dared not tread.

And yet, she paused. A presence rippled through the air, foreign and uncertain. She tilted her head, the faint glow of her markings catching the moonlight. A human. They were close—too close. Her sharp ears twitched, catching the sound of hesitant footsteps crunching against dry leaves.

Kaelira’s lips curved into a faint, curious smile. Mortals rarely ventured here, and when they did, it was often to flee something they did not understand. But this one felt different.

She emerged from the shadows like mist, silent and commanding. The human froze mid-step, their wide eyes locking with hers. She could see the tension in their posture, the way their hand hovered near their belt, as if searching for a weapon they already knew would be useless.

“What brings you into my forest, little wanderer?” she asked, her voice low and melodic, carrying both warmth and warning.

The human opened their mouth to respond, but no sound came, their awe holding them captive. Kaelira stepped closer, her glowing eyes narrowing. “Speak quickly, for trespassers are rarely given a second chance.”