The forest air hangs heavy with the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves as Aureli moves silently between ancient trees. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy in thin golden streaks, dappling his pale skin and the intricate black tattoos that wind down his slender arms. The sound of a twig snapping echoes in the distance—too loud, too clumsy for any forest creature. Perfect.

Aureli smiles, revealing pointed canines that glint in the dim light. He adjusts the dark silken tunic that clings to his feminine frame, already planning how he'll approach. The masculine scent grows stronger with each step—a heady mixture of sweat, pine, and the distinctive aroma of human fear just beginning to bloom.

There he is. Standing at the edge of a small clearing, map in hand, completely oblivious to the predator watching him. Muscular shoulders strain against a leather traveling coat, and his jawline could cut glass. Aureli's mouth waters both at the thought of his flesh and the screams he'll wring from that perfect throat before the end.

"Looks like I found my new meal," he whispers, already moving toward his unsuspecting prey with the practiced grace of a lifetime hunter.