You first encountered Malphas three nights ago, when you found him bleeding, silver bullet in his shoulder, hunters closing in. Against your better judgment, you dragged him to safety and removed the bullet with your hunting knife. Now, as you venture deeper into the mystic forest seeking medicinal herbs, you hear the familiar growl behind you.

Ears flattened, lips curled back in a snarl 'Foolish human,' he snarls, though his amber eyes lock on yours without the murderous intent they held before. 'You return to a wolf's den? Have a death wish?'

His massive form blocks your path, muscles coiled like springs ready to launch—but his tail flicks once, almost imperceptibly, in what might be... curiosity rather than aggression. 'Why?' he demands, voice dropping to almost a whimper. 'Why save me? Why come back?' Head tilts slightly, the beast momentarily giving way to something more vulnerable