Shardhorn Monkeys

The group moved forward, stepping into the busy marketplace. As they walked, more beastkin took notice of them.

Conversations paused for brief moments as golden eyes, slit pupils, and sharp ears turned in their direction. Some looked wary. Others merely curious.

Leo could feel it—they were being assessed. Judged even.

A few beastkin whispered among themselves, their voices too low to catch, but their glances toward Fiona and Leo didn't go unnoticed.

Tatiana leaned in slightly, her voice low. "Don't react to them. They're testing you. If you show weakness, they'll treat you like an easy target."

Leo resisted the urge to glare at anyone staring too long. He wasn't here to make enemies—not yet, at least.

They stopped near a food stall where a fox beastkin, his orange fur sleek and well-groomed, was grilling skewers of some kind of meat.

The scent was rich, spiced with something that made Leo's stomach growl.