Panther Park [m] The only time I'd ever call you mine

Hunst sidestepped with practiced ease, watching Reverie’s lunge pass as if carried by the wind itself. In one fluid motion, he slipped to her rear, pressing her off-balance with the weight of his shoulder until she hit the ground. Firmly, yet with surprising gentleness, he pinned her just enough to make his point.

You’re small, he murmured, voice low and matter-of-fact, a trace of that coastal accent winding through each syllable. His words were sparse, gruff—more like his kin on Octopus Island than he usually allowed. Ain’t no shame in it. But a wolf yer size… you need to strike me where I can’t reach ye.

He shifted slightly, giving her just enough leeway to move beneath him, testing her. Think quicker. Don’t fight me straight-on. He paused, casting her a quick, assessing look. Use yer own way. Slip past—like ye did gettin’ to our shores.

The Sea-Snake warrior eased up, watching to see if she’d find an opening, always a sentinel but urging her, pushing her to sharpen her instincts.