Lyerin's breath caught in his throat as he took in the sight. He had heard tales of this creature, of the guardian beast that bore the symbol of the Borgias Family. But to see it in person was another matter entirely.
The panther was a creature of legend, a manifestation of the ancient magic that had kept the Borgias Family at the pinnacle of power for generations.
Forcing himself to remain steady, Lyerin spoke to himself in his mind. 'I didn't expect they would send the Borgias Family's symbol animal. But aren't they a fool? Do they really want to make things easier for me?'
The panther didn't move, didn't even blink, but its voice resonated in the air, deep and resonant, as though coming from the very shadows that surrounded them. "Where do you intend to take these hooved creatures?"
Its question hung in the air like a blade poised to strike. Lyerin knew he had to choose his words carefully.