The heavy aura surrounding the courtyard still vibrated, even after the initial roar.
The winds swirled around Strax and the colossal creature before him, kicking up dust and fragments of stone.
The smaller tigers behind the white beast moved restlessly, growling softly, as if awaiting a command.
The tigress—now clearly a woman in human form—took a step forward.
Her silhouette began to change, the bestial lines softening, the white glow condensing.
In a few seconds, a woman with pale skin and sparkling blue eyes revealed herself, silver streaks marking her body like natural tattoos.
Her white hair fell to her waist, and a fur cloak draped her shoulders.
Even though she wasn't in her full form, the aura emanating from her was one of savage sovereignty—cold, noble, dangerous.
She lifted her chin and looked directly at Strax.
Her voice was deep, firm, each word carrying the weight of restrained thunder.
