The panther's presence was both mesmerizing and unnerving. Lily's mind raced as she struggled to make sense of this surreal encounter. How had such a creature found its way into Nikolai's house? Was it a supernatural entity, or was there a more mundane explanation?
The panther continued its slow approach, its lithe body moving noiselessly across the wooden floor. Lily knew better than to make any sudden movements or loud noises. She had heard tales of shape-shifters and familiars, creatures that could take on the form of animals. Was this panther somehow connected to the cryptic note and the Moon Crystal's mystery?
She retraced her steps, moving backward toward the library.
As the panther drew nearer, it finally came to a halt a few feet away from Lily. Its amber eyes locked onto hers,
