SHADOW: (outside, a step in snow) I hunt what’s left. I learn human sounds. I do not howl at them. I watch them like they watch me.

Scene 3 — Encounter (They step outside. Moonlight washes the clearing. SHADOW stands on a ridge, visible and calm.)

LENA: (breath caught) He’s not attacking. He’s watching us as if we’re new.

LENA: (soft) The trail turns here. Not a pack—just one. Big paws, long stride.