Stalking the Grey Giant

I vaulted the fountain rim and sprinted straight into the open plaza. Mid-stride, an obstacle landed with a heavy flutter. A massive grey pigeon touched down directly across my path. It cocked its eye at me, bobbing its neck like a challenger. I didn't flinch. I lowered my stance, tightened my grip on my red blade, and charged straight at its scaly pink feet. The bird let out a startled coo, flapped its heavy wings, and backed off two paces. It pecked nervously at a crumb instead. I held my line. Ground defended.