The unusual sound was a deep, throaty growl. From out of the shadows ranged a trio of- dogs? wolves? -slinking across the grounds. The one in front, though its fur was shaggy and matted, was still large and muscular, and teeth as sharp as any top-of-the-heap predator. It turned its head and barked to the one on the left, then the one on the right, and continued stalking forward, hackles raised. The three seemed intent on turning a meal out of Goro-

Then the leader paused, raised its head. It sniffed the air, and for a moment its ears went back. The other two sensed their leader's uncertainty and also paused, watching as it backpawed a step or two. A high-pitched, warning growl to the air, then it turned on its heel and ran off again, quickly followed by the other two.

For a few moments, nothing seemed to happen. Then there were footsteps nearby and a young man in a cloak, shifting the adjustment of the gauntlet he wore on one arm. Reaching Goro he paused, shifting his hood up enough he could see him better.

"Everything alright here?"