Elise's involuntary shriek reverberated across the subterranean hall before the acoustic shockwave finished dissipating against the distant masonry walls.
The scarred swordsman pushed away from the wall, one calloused hand dropping toward his scabbard as his eyes narrowed suspiciously.
"What improper conduct is occurring over there?" he barked, advancing toward the huddle with his lips curling into an aggressive sneer.
Juna detached herself from the perimeter wall, gliding across the floor to intercept his path before he covered three paces.
Her white-furred wolf ears flattened against her hair while her tail locked into a rigid, defensive bar behind her hips.
"Step aside, demi-human," the warrior demanded, attempting to peer over her shoulder with an arrogant scowl.
"Mind your low station and let me inspect what that favored youth is attempting with the female candidates," he commanded, puffing out his chest.
