Page 7 of Feuding with My Shifter Werewolf

I continue my patrol, every sense attuned to the slightest disturbance. The scents of pine and loam fill my lungs as I inhale deeply, searching for any unfamiliar traces on the breeze.

My paws make little sound on the mossy earth, allowing me to move swiftly yet silently through the undergrowth. The dappled sunlight filters through the canopy above, casting ever-shifting patterns on the forest floor.

An intruder has dared to cross into my territory, and I must deal with this threat swiftly. I am the apex predator here, a guardian of this wild land. Only a fool would challenge me.

Rex appears at my side, his amber eyes gleaming with alertness. He points his snout towards the remote trails, confirming my suspicions.

It's a woman, he communicates silently.

I skid to a halt, my claws digging into the soft underbrush.A woman? Alone on my mountain?

Curiosity battles with annoyance as I question her motives.

What could she possibly want from me? My wealth? My status?

Many have tried to win my favor, seeking the influence of a prominent werewolf in the Shaidunia Nexus. But I left that life behind when I sought solitude here.

Or perhaps she's another pawn sent by those who wish to recruit me to their cause against the Supernatural Council. I've refused their offers before, and I'll do so again. I have no interest in their petty politics.

A spark of hope flickers in my chest.

Could it be...

No.

I banish the thought before it can take root. Whoever she is, her presence here is an unwelcome intrusion.

I stalk forward, my movements predatory and purposeful. The forest seems to part before me, the earth thrumming beneath my paws. Every sense is heightened, attuned to the slightest rustle or scent.

As I draw closer to the intruder's location, a peculiar aroma reaches my nostrils. It's unlike anything I've encountered before—a tantalizing blend of wildflowers and sunshine, with an undercurrent of something uniquelyher.

Despite myself, I find my pace slowing, my curiosity piqued.

Who is this woman who dares to trespass on my land? And why does her scent call to me in a way I've never experienced?

I shake my head forcefully, trying to dislodge the unwanted thoughts.

It doesn't matter who she is or what she wants. My duty is clear. I must protect my territory and my solitude at all costs.

Yet even as I reaffirm my resolve, I can't shake the nagging sensation that this encounter will be different. Thatshewill be different.

Be cautious, my friend,Rex warns, his thoughts tinged with concern.We don't know her intentions.

I nod, acknowledging his wisdom. But as I draw nearer, a strange calm settles over me. It's as if some ancient, primal part of my being recognizes her, even before I see her face.

I'll take it from here, I tell Rex, my tone brooking no argument. He darts off into the forest, leaving me alone with her.

I lower myself into a stalking crouch, creeping forward until I catch sight of her. The moment I lay eyes on her, the air rushes from my lungs. She's stunning, with long, wavy hair and an athletic grace to her movements.

But it's her voice that truly captivates me as she mutters to herself, unaware of my presence.

"These markings are unusual," she muses, running her fingers over a tree trunk. Then she pulls out her phone and snaps a picture.

I find myself responding silently, drawn into her one-sided conversation.Very observant, city slicker. But you're in over your head out here.

She continues on, her determined stride never faltering despite the rugged terrain. I shadow her, intrigued by the way she seems to belong in this untamed landscape.

It's been so long since I've had any company, and I'm surprised by how much I've missed the simple pleasure of shared experience. Of a voice other than the one in my head.

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