Took several steps out into a clearing, circling cautiously, waiting to meet the menace. It was there, somewhere close; he felt the oppressive channeling of energy directed at him. It was strong, much stronger than he had anticipated, beating at his mind with thoughts of defeat, an attempt to tear down his self-confidence. Had used such a mind trick himself on many occasions. It angered him that his adversary would think him such a rank amateur. It was easy enough to reverse the apprehension, sending it winging back through the night air, reinforced with his own power and strength. There was a moment of complete silence, the very insects seemed to hold their breath, as if his retaliation had struck and the recipient was in a cold, killing fury. The attack came from his left, a blur of motion impossible to see. It was 's hightened senses that saved him from the slashing, raking claws. The leopard materialized out of thin air, going straight for his belly with a terrible ferocity. The claws came within a hairs width of nailing him. actually had to hold his breath to prevent the cat from laying his belly wide open. Cursing, took to the air, shape shifting as he did so, acquiring razor sharp talons, a wicked, curved beak, and a six foot wing span. He dove straight for the leopard, talons outstretched. The leopard summer-saulted to avoid the lethal charge, heading toward the cover of the trees, knowing its huge, feathered opponent would not have easy maneuverability in the canopy of branches. stood perfectly still in a tree, he senses locked on the terrible battle. , her worst nightmare come true.