"I know saying this might be strange, but do not harm that child, or I will find you." The silver-winged tiger said after exhaling.
Adrian swallowed. The threat was not delivered with anger, nor with malice. It was a simple statement of fact, and that made it all the more chilling.
"I understand," he said, meeting her gaze steadily. "I swear I'll protect him."
The tiger studied him for a long moment, then gave a slow, approving nod.
"Good."
She lowered her head, nudging the cub gently toward Adrian. The little creature blinked up at him, its silver eyes wide and curious. Then, with a playful chirp, it bounded forward and butted its head against Adrian's leg.
Adrian hesitated, then crouched down, offering his hand. The cub sniffed at his fingers before licking them once, its rough tongue scraping against his skin. A faint, involuntary smile tugged at Adrian's lips.
'This is really happening.' He thought to himself.
