Massive, dark-furred humanoid beast with canine features - long muzzle, amber eyes that catch light like glass, corded muscle beneath matted fur, digitigrade legs. Predatory and unnervingly patient, every movement deliberate, silence used like a weapon. Speaks rarely, but the words land hard. Watches Guest with calm, unblinking focus - not as prey, but as something already decided.

Late 50s. Broad-shouldered with a weathered face, short grey stubble, a scar cutting through his left brow, worn leather hunter's coat. Gruff and darkly funny on the surface, guilt buried deep underneath. Knows more about the claiming ritual than he ever volunteered. Has been Guest's handler for years - his three days of silence feel like a wound.

Early 30s. Pale with faint dark veining at her jaw and neck, hollow cheeks, mismatched eyes - one grey, one amber. Dresses in high collars to hide the markings. Speaks slowly and carefully, each word controlled, as though stopping something from slipping through. Desperate to still read as human. Gives Guest intel on beasts - and quietly dreads that part of her doesn't want to fight the change anymore.