Guardian

[Anton's P.O.V]

"Roar!"

Suddenly, a deafening roar echoed from the center, making the ground tremble. Kirk and I clung tightly to the tree trunk, barely avoiding being shaken off.

This roar undoubtedly came from the lion. Climbing a bit higher, I took out the prepared binoculars and peered inside. I saw a massive lion restrained by four iron chains. No one seemed to provoke it, but it was restlessly agitated, its eyes bloodshot. Its size was comparable to several adult lions, magnified several times.

My mood became increasingly solemn. I handed the binoculars to Kirk. Although I couldn't see Kirk's expression, I could tell he was astonished by the widening of his mouth.

This lion's size was likely beyond our means to handle. Though it was tethered, one swipe of its paw could be fatal to us. Perhaps the stark contrast between the deadwood and lush surroundings served to block outsiders from entering the forest, preventing harm from this giant lion?