by the skin of our teeth

He kept his paws on the bear’s shoulders, using his weight to hold it down until the last of its strength left its body. Once he felt certain it was dead, or at least on death’s door, he released his hold and raised his head. Sinew, blood, and spinal fluid dripped from his jaws, trickling down to his chest to create a rather gory image. Stepping away, his eyes rolled across the bear’s body, taking note of its wounds, feeling prideful in how they had killed it with moderate effort.

Pools of amethyst and emerald aligned with the boy’s gaze, and Rhazien couldn’t help but smirk at the bold posture he took on. He wanted the pelt, which Rhazien cared little for- but that didn’t mean he would give it up so easily. “Sure thing kid,” He took a step forward, wanting to loom over the pup, peering down at him with a sly smirk. “But I want something in exchange.” His gaze trailed over his body taking note of his markings, and the odd, bone-like spurs that protruded from his cheeks. Cat claws and spurs… you didn’t see that every day. “The name of the warrior boy who slayed the bear oh so bravely.” It was a simple request, one he assumed he would oblige to. And if he did, Rhazien would set his sights back on the bear, to begin the process of ripping the hide from the muscle.

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