Within that frantic second, many things were processed through the robust mind of Tharraleos. His hold on the dear was lost instantly and it fell to the ground, painting the lightly grassed terrain in an explosion of gore and bone. As the hybrid watched the bullet careen towards him, it became clear he was not able to move in time and this projectile would find its way to his midsection. His immense body was a curse, but also a gift, as the bird cat was also aware of. Sure enough, the bolt burrowed into the midsection part just above where the bodies divided. Given his reinforced fur and hardened skin, it hardly broke the flesh, drawing only a minor amount of blood and forcing and irritated, growl from Tharr's agape beak, fangs and teeth bearing in response.

"At times I contemplate if I give humans too many opportunities for mercy." He started with retained tranquility, using a duo of his claws from his left minor paw like a pair of tweezers, the bullet was easily lodged from its place with nothing but a flesh wound remaining. His body abruptly reared upwards with feathered hindlimbs supporting his entire weight, golden talons clawing into the dirt for grip. From here, two things would happen simultaneously; his wings would flare outwards, their girth and low aspect ratio inherently unleashing a hefty gust of wind. Then his signature battle cry rattled the forest around them. The screech of a bird of prey pierced the air before it transitioned into a thunderous roar of a lion. If the torrent of air wasn't enough, the beast slammed his paws against the ground with such force it generated shockwaves with enough of a radius to ensure the hidden man faced some instability.

"Embrace your fear, and directly face the might of Tharraleos." He called out, body in a much more prepared stance for future deterrents.