Stone Circle Way down inside honey, you need it,

Cole did not move as the heavy footfalls approached, the stranger emerging from the stone forest with all the weight of a storm behind him. Massive. Scarred. Reeking of carrion—like the other one he'd met days before. Likely from the same band, if the scent and build were any indication.
His stance shifted only slightly, ensuring he stayed firmly on his side of the border, one eye on the piss-soaked marker between them.
I'm not here to cross, Cole said plainly, voice low and gravel-worn. Just scouting.
He held the stranger’s stare without flinching. There was something old in the man’s eyes—worn and war-heavy—but Cole had seen worse, fought harder. He knew when to hold ground.
This circle, he continued, nodding toward the stones behind the other male, was claimed by others before. Is it yours now?
The silence that followed was taut, but Cole didn’t press. He didn’t step forward. He didn’t challenge.
I'm Cole.