What hides within?

Kotori had taken it upon himself to train any wolves in Ashen that wanted to be fighters.  His job was to protect Venom and helping her pack grow stronger seemed more worthwhile than just hanging around for a time.  His time to help was limited but whatever knowledge the pack gained would last far more than a season.  

So, here he was with one of the pack's pups, Sitri.  The young male wasn’t far from being a year old from what Kotori understood, certainly, it appeared that way in his size and build.  With the need for fight training in mind, Kotori had chosen to take the boy away from the safety of the pack and into territory Kotori knew well.  The weeping woods were practically home away from home.  There were predators out here they could find for sure.  How many kills had Ko made here over time?  Enough he lost count.

The trees could hide many things from view but there was no hiding a scent.  Most of the bears were likely holed up somewhere but the land didn’t disappoint.  The scent of a large cat caught Kotori’s nose, his head turning to the left sharply, nudging the boy.  “Smell it?” Ko kept his voice soft, his body still.  So far it appeared they had the upper hand on surprise but would that last long?

Even as Kotori had the thought he heard movement, and the cat was standing up, stepping into sight from where it had been behind one of the tree’s curtained hiding spots.  “So,” Kotori lowered his head, ears flattening and snarling at the tiger.  “Feel bold enough?  I can keep the head busy this time, let you take the end without the teeth.” Kotori leaned forward even as the tiger moved towards them.  If the boy wanted to they could flee but he’d make sure that the tiger’s focus was on him.  “Get around behind if you are ready.”  

"Kotori Fatalis"