The animal makes an unsettling sound, but otherwise seems relatively unperturbed by Palamedes’ presence. It doesn’t come charging at him; it doesn’t growl or bare its teeth, and that’s enough to spark Pal’s curiosity. He’s never seen a living creature so large this close up.

Pal keeps his hands up and maintains his distance, but he comes to a stop, gaze growing inquisitive. A little awed, he murmurs, “What are you doing down here, anyway?”