Tyger Tyger, burning bright

Usagi had been tracing the waters of the creek as well, halfheartedly attempting to track some prey. The koi wolf hadn’t meant to follow the dire wolf here - or should he say, his leader now - but that’s where some scents led him. Alas, they weren’t of much help. Usagi sighed as he reached the muddy shores of the overflowing creek banks, toes splaying into the thick mud as the prey scents disappeared. Upon seeing the Shogun a few paces away, he noticed the male was quietly observing the eerie silence, and Usagi did the same, his body stiffening as he noticed some large feline pawprints embbeded in the earth. Shit. They had tigers hereabouts, too? He’d fought a lion, a bear, and a cougar already, but he much preferred not to risk getting maimed if he could help it. He stood still as Hattori did, not wanting to barge on him and alert the striped beast that was undoubtedly nearby.

His and Hattori’s efforts to remain vigilant were not unseen. Unfortunately for them, the tiger was enraged. Perhaps it believed the wolves to be intruders, and this meant it would very likely end up in a fight. The striped beast lurched from the rain-pelted foliage, mud spraying about as it charged towards Usagi with a bone-chilling roar. Unafraid, but yet surprised this beast was so bold, the male quickly managed to sidestep the animal’s charge, and as it whipped towards him, he braced his himd legs and whipped one around to give the beast a firm, angry jab directly into its nose. Hitting animals on the nose was a sensitive spot, and it was his hope that the attack would force the animal to consider something less aggressive for a snack. Usagi growled, his temper flaring as his lips peeled back in a guttural snarl. Damn beasts. He didn’t want to fight this animal on his own - it’d be a foolhardy move - but if it meant preserving his life and his limbs as well as keeping it away from the Shogun’s reach, he’d do it.

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