“I know,” he murmured. He tried again, tossing another cut closer. That was when it happened; a sudden, violent snarl ripped from Shira’s throat as she lunged a single step forward. Her claws tore into the dirt, teeth bared, tail lashing. Lily flinched, gripping her father’s arm. “She’s angry!” Ethan stepped back quickly, raising both hands.
“Okay, okay,” he said, his voice steady. “We’re done here. Nobody move.” The other keepers froze, tension thick in the air. Shira didn’t advance further, but she didn’t back away either. Her chest heaved, the rumbling growl continuing like an engine refusing to stop. It was then that Caleb noticed it. “Ethan,” he said quietly, pointing. “Look at her side.”