Morning light filtered through the windows, casting soft golden hues across the wooden floor. Chase sat at the edge of his bed, deep in thought. Yesterday’s events still lingered in his mind—his failed attempt to rally the guild, the weight of responsibility pressing on his shoulders, and the realization that he needed to take a different path.

  As he mulled over his next move, he called out absentmindedly.

  Chase: Selena. Selena?

  Silence.

  He frowned. She had been here just moments ago.

  Chase (to self): Huh? I thought she was here...

  Pushing himself up, he stepped out of his room and into the common area of the inn. There, lounging comfortably on the sofa, was Selena. A book rested in her hands, though judging by her flicking tail and relaxed posture, she wasn’t particularly engrossed in it.

  Chase: Oh? There you are. I was calling for you.

  Selena turned a page without looking up. And with feigning innocence she says,

  Selena: You were?

  Chase raised an eyebrow.

  Chase: Yes, Selena...

  Selena finally glanced at him, her golden eyes gleaming with mischief.

  Selena: Really? I thought my name was “my lioness”?

  Chase froze.

  A wave of heat crawled up his neck as yesterday’s slip of the tongue came rushing back. His jaw tightened.

  Chase (to self): She’s not letting that go, is she?

  With a deep sigh, he continued.

  Chase: Don’t mess with me like that...

  Selena hummed, the corner of her lips twitching into a smirk. She closed the book with a soft thud, then leaned forward, resting her chin lazily against her knuckles.

  Selena: Alright, then.

  She tilted her head ever so slightly, her gaze locking onto his, sharp yet warm. And then—

  Selena: What is it, my prey?

  She said it differently this time. No longer just playful mockery, but something... else. Something softer. More intimate.

  Chase stiffened, his breath hitching as the words settled in his ears. Then, he muttered, as if to correct her.

  Chase: “Chase”.

  Chase then turns around as he masks whatever expression was forming on his face. Selena watched him with quiet amusement. The way his shoulders tensed, the way his ears burned just a little—oh, he was definitely flustered.

  Selena: (Smirk) Alright, “Chase”. I'm listening.

  She leaned back, her tail flicking playfully over the side of the sofa.

  The Plan

  Chase exhaled, rubbing the bridge of his nose as he leaned back into the small sofa directly across where Selena is sitting. He told her about his next move after failing to convince the adventurer’s guild.

  Selena: (Yawn) So? You plan to ask the beast race to fight instead?

  Chase shook his head, drumming his fingers against his knee.

  Chase: No, not exactly. But after looking at everything right now… if I’m right, things are going to spiral out of control as the demon army advances.

  He pauses and then takes a sigh.

  Chase: I still believe everyone need to work together if we want to survive this. So, if we can’t form a strike team, then we should at least form a unified front—to defend what’s left.

  Selena’s ears twitched slightly as she listened.

  Selena: And difference is?

  Chase met her gaze, his expression firm.

  Chase: The difference is, we’ll be gathering people who actually want to cooperate and stand their ground—to protect and not just those who fight because they have no other choice.

  Selena hummed, her golden eyes half-lidded in thought.

  Selena: Hmm. You say that, but beasts are a lot harder to talk to than you imagine. Sure, they might be ready to fight the demon army—but only because it’s about survival. Not because of some grand ideal.

  Her eyes look away slightly.

  Selena: I can’t say for the other tribes, but at least my kin would.

  Chase sighed, his fingers tightening into a loose fist.

  Chase: So… you’re saying it’s a waste of time?

  Selena: Not really. (Shrug) But if you want to convince them, you’ll need to give them confidence in your ability. No beast follows the weak.

  Chase: I see. Well, we won’t know unless we try, right?

  Selena’s eyes narrowed before a smirk tugged at the corner of her lips.

  Selena: Hm! Now, where did I hear that before…?

  He looks at Chase in the eye before leaning forward.

  Selena: Oh, right. That’s what you told me before.

  Chase let out a small chuckle, shaking his head.

  Chase: You have a better idea?

  Selena: None, actually. Let’s go then. Where do you plan to go?

  With that settled, the two gathered their things and set off toward the nearest beast tribe, the bunnies.

  Vantage Point – Hareveil Village

  To the northeast of Brookstead, Chase and Selena stood at the crest of a hill, overlooking a sprawling valley bathed in the bright sun of the afternoon. Below them, a patchwork of fields stretched across the land, their crops swaying gently in the breeze. Wooden houses dotted the landscape, their rounded entrances blending seamlessly into the earth, forming a quiet, self-sufficient village.

  Down in the valley, bunny beastfolks no taller than Chase’s waist moved nimbly between the crops, their floppy ears twitching at the slightest sound. Children darted around, giggling as they played, their carefree laughter carried on the wind. The sight was almost surreal—so untouched by the chaos beyond these hills.

  Chase: So this is the bunny tribe? It’s... peaceful. A little too peaceful for what’s happening in the world.

  Beside him, Selena suddenly burst into laughter. Chase didn’t even have to ask—he already knew why.

  Chase: Hey! It’s not my fault this was the nearest tribe according to the map.

  Selena: Sorry, sorry. It’s just—I really thought you’d go straight for the wolves. Or any of the more intimidating tribes, really.

  Chase: You really think this is going to be that easy, don’t you?

  Selena replies while still trying to suppress her amusement.

  Selena: Not really. But even though they have warriors, I know bunnies don’t participate in territorial disputes. And they’re not the type to rally for a cause. Still… you might find them difficult to convince.

  Chase exhaled, shaking his head.

  Chase: Yeah, yeah. Let’s just try, okay?

  You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.

  Selena’s ears twitched, her expression shifting as she gazed toward the town. She took in a slow breath through her nose.

  Selena: Their fields are rich. Their people smell of warmth and safety. It’s no wonder they’ve stayed untouched.

  There was something almost unsettling about it. No fear. No tension in the air. Just… life, continuing as if the war beyond these hills didn’t exist.

  As they descended toward the village, a pair of guards stepped forward to meet them. Their spears—nearly twice their own height—were held firm, their small frames standing with a confidence that left no room for underestimation. Their sharp eyes darted between Chase and Selena, scanning them like trained sentinels rather than mere gatekeepers.

  Guard 1: Adventurers? What brings you to Hareveil Village?

  Chase: Good afternoon, My name is Chase, and this is Selena. We’re hoping to get an audience with your tribal leader.

  Guard 1: And your business?

  Chase: We want to discuss the possibility of cooperation against the demon army.

  Guard 1: I see… Thistle, is the Burrow Master busy today?

  The guards exchanged a glance.

  Thistle: I think he’s just supervising the harvest today.

  The first guard nodded before gesturing toward a path leading further into the village.

  Guard 1: Visitors meet with the Burrow Master over there. Just follow this path and stay on it. And don’t try anything foolish.

  He narrowed his eyes.

  Guard 1: We might be small and cute, but we can reach you in an instant if you cause trouble.

  Selena grinned, her fangs glinting just slightly in the sunlight. She leaned in ever so slightly, lowering her voice to a smooth purr.

  Selena: Don’t worry, little one. We won’t.

  The guard stiffened, ears perking straight up as a brief shudder ran through him. He quickly recomposed himself, clearing his throat.

  Thistle: (Mutter) Predators…

  Chase sighed, rubbing his temple as they continued forward.

  Chase: You really can’t help yourself, can you, huh?

  Selena: (Smirk) I didn’t do anything.

  Inside Hareveil

  Chase and Selena walked along the cobbled path leading toward the Visitor’s Hall, the heart of Hareveil’s community. The air was crisp, tinged with the scent of fresh crops and baking bread. Wooden houses with thatched roofs nestled comfortably among rolling fields, and villagers bustled about, tending to their daily tasks. The place radiated an untouched serenity, as if conflict had never dared to reach it.

  Selena: You know, this place is too peaceful. Makes you wonder if they’ve ever had to deal with real danger.

  Chase: They don’t look like fighters, but they’ve survived this long. That says something. Maybe their relationships with the nearby towns protect them?

  Selena: (Shrug) Or maybe they’ve just been lucky. Demons don’t exactly pick favorites.

  As they strolled through the village, a young bunny child rushed past them, struggling to balance a basket of vegetables almost as big as they were. A misstep sent them tumbling forward, scattering carrots and leafy greens across the path.

  Chase quickly steps forward to help him.

  Chase: Oh no, let me help you with that.

  The child looked up nervously but nodded as Chase knelt to gather the spilled vegetables. He picked up the basket and handed it back.

  Chase: Here. You alright, kid?

  Bunny Child: Y-yeah, thank you. You’re not from here, are you?

  Selena: No, we’re just visiting. You carry a lot for someone so small.

  The child puffs his chest in response.

  Bunny Child: I’m not small! I’m strong! My father says so!

  Chase: (Chuckle) Of course you are.

  Bunny Child: Are you two... um, adventurers? You look like you fight.

  Chase: You could say that. But we’re not here to fight anyone. We’re trying to help.

  Bunny Child: Help? You mean, like protecting us from the big scary serpent that eats bunnies?

  Selena leans in slightly to the child, smirk widening, and her fangs glinting.

  Selena: Yeah. Big scary monsters that eat people.

  The bunny child froze, ears stiffening as their small hands gripped the basket tighter. Their nose twitched, eyes wide with a mix of fear and uncertainty.

  Chase: (Sigh) Selena, come on… Don’t scare the child like that.

  He turns to the child, offering a reassuring smile.

  Chase: Yes. We’ll help protect you, even with that.

  Chase ruffles the child’s ears.

  Bunny Child: Yay! We’re safe from the bunny-eating serpent!!!

  The child cheered, glancing between the two before scampering off with their basket. Selena watched them go, a thoughtful glint in her eyes.

  Selena: People here sure know how to scare their younglings, huh?

  Chase straightens up.

  Chase: Well, my parents told me a few horror stories when I was a kid, including man-eating monsters. I think it’s normal.

  Selena: Is that the reason why you bolted the moment you saw me back then? You thought I’m a man-eating monster?

  Chase stiffened. The memory of his initial prey-like reaction to her resurfaced, clawing at his pride. He averted his gaze.

  Chase: No!

  Selena: (Giggle) Right.

  They continued walking, their eyes drifting toward a stall displaying colorful potions and dried herbs.

  Selena nudges Chase to get his attention.

  Selena: Chase, there are some very useful items here. Look.

  Chase: You’re right. Might as well stockpile some supplies before we leave.

  The vibrant village life surrounded them—farmers exchanging goods, the scent of fresh produce lingering in the air, and cheerful voices weaving through the gentle rustle of the fields. A young bunny vendor waved at them from a nearby stall, offering a sample of freshly baked carrot bread.

  Selena accepts the bread, nibbling curiously.

  Selena: Hmm, not bad. Soft, sweet… though it could use a little spice.

  Chase: (Chuckle) You’d add spice to a carrot? You really are something else.

  As they continued strolling, Chase glanced at Selena just in time to catch a familiar look in her golden eyes—sharp, playful, and filled with mischief. His brows furrowed slightly in suspicion.

  Chase: Hey! You’re not thinking of pouncing on anyone that moves here, right?

  Selena grins, her tail flicking playfully.

  Selena: Hah! What gave you that idea? I’m just… appreciating the scenery.

  Chase replies, unamused.

  Chase: No, no, of course not. I know you can control yourself.

  Selena simply smirked, clearly enjoying his wary expression as they pressed on toward their destination.

  Farm Fields

  As the cobbled path ended, they continued down the dirt path. Selena’s gaze drifted toward the vast fields stretching alongside them. The crops were lush, vibrant, and oddly pristine—not a single weed in sight, nor a single leaf wilted. The bunny folk moved with practiced grace, tending to the land as though it were an extension of themselves.

  Selena: Their fields are impeccable. How do they manage to grow this much?

  A passing farmer, carrying a basket of freshly picked herbs, overheard her and stopped with a warm smile.

  Farmer: Oh, that’s thanks to our magic! We channel energy into the soil and remove toxins from the water we use. Keeps everything healthy!

  Selena arched a brow, intrigued.

  Selena: Sounds like you’re as good at farming as you are at curing poison.

  The farmer chuckled, adjusting the weight of his basket.

  Farmer: It’s all connected, you see. A sick land can’t produce good crops, just like a sick body can’t stand tall. We heal both.

  Selena tapped a claw thoughtfully against her arm.

  Selena: That kind of knowledge could come in handy.

  She gave the farmer a sharp-toothed grin.

  Selena: What a shame? Maybe I should just take you with me instead?

  The farmer stiffened, his ears perking up in alarm.

  Chase, immediately sensing the shift in mood, let out a nervous chuckle and stepped in laughing awkwardly.

  Chase: She means if she could ask you nicely to come. But don’t worry, sir, she’s just curious. We won’t actually take you with us.

  He shot Selena a knowing look.

  Chase: Right?!

  Selena: (Grin) Ah, of course. I was just curious.

  The farmer exhaled in visible relief, adjusting his grip on his basket.

  Farmer: I’m glad I could share my knowledge with you, young ones.

  Chase offered a polite nod before nudging Selena to move along.

  Chase: We’ll be going now. Thanks for your time.

  Selena cast one last glance at the fields before following Chase, her tail flicking in amusement.

  Meeting the Burrow Master

  As they approached the Visitor’s Hall, the scent of fresh earth and blooming flowers filled the air. The humble building was adorned with wreaths of delicate blossoms and carved wooden symbols representing growth and renewal. Inside, warm candlelight flickered against the polished wooden walls, creating an inviting yet dignified atmosphere.

  Soon, the burrow master arrived. Thayren, an elderly bunny with a calm, knowing presence, stepped forward with a welcoming smile. His fur had turned silver with age, but his posture remained steady, carrying the wisdom of decades.

  Thayren: Welcome, adventurers. Please, have a seat. How may I help you?

  The trio settled around a low wooden table as a young bunny server placed steaming cups of herbal tea before them. The soothing aroma of fresh mint and honey curled through the air, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.

  Chase took a deep breath before speaking. He explained his purpose—the need for allies against the looming demon army, the destruction he had already witnessed, and the desperate necessity of preparing before it was too late.

  Thayren listened patiently, his long ears twitching slightly as he absorbed Chase’s words. Slowly, he lifted his cup, taking a measured sip before responding.

  Thayren: I see. Your resolve is commendable, young man. But this is no simple decision for us. Our village thrives because we have remained neutral in conflicts. If we commit without assured allies to help, we may as well stand alone when danger comes knocking.

  He set his cup down gently, his keen eyes searching Chase’s face.

  Thayren: Besides, what can you offer us in return?

  Chase hesitated. The burrow master was right—he had nothing concrete to give them, no guarantees, no security. His hands clenched slightly atop the table, but after a moment, he exhaled and straightened his posture.

  Chase: I have nothing to offer—yet. But if I can meet your terms, will you fight alongside us?

  Thayren regarded him in silence before a faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips.

  Thayren: Of course, young man. If you can guarantee us an alliance, we will lend our strength. Until then, we will prepare quietly. When the tides shift in our favor, you will find us ready.

  Chase nodded, though the weight of uncertainty still lingered in his expression.

  Chase: Thank you, Burrow Master. That’s all I can ask for right now.

  Beside him, Selena tilted her head, studying his face.

  Selena: You’re not discouraged, are you, Chase? At least the Burrow Master didn’t shut you down like those humans in Brookstead.

  Thayren’s ears perked slightly at the mention of another failed negotiation.

  Thayren: Ah, so you’ve sought aid before. This must be very important to you if you continue despite these setbacks.

  Chase exhaled, his voice steady.

  Chase: Yeah, it is.

  Selena smirked, folding her arms.

  Selena: This guy is very stubborn, you know? Even if you rejected him, Chase would still fight this battle even on his own. That’s why I’m here for him—to ensure that he remains alive with all that recklessness he does.

  The burrow master let out a warm chuckle, his eyes twinkling with respect.

  Thayren: That is no small thing, young man. I pray your journey leads you to the allies and strength you seek. Return to us when the tides shift, and I guarantee you, you will not stand alone.

  Request from the Burrow Master

  Then, the burrow master leaned forward slightly, his ears twitching as he regarded Chase and Selena with a contemplative gaze. A moment of silence passed before he spoke.

  Thayren: I would be happy to offer you both a place to stay for the meantime, adventurers. But before that, I have a request—one that would greatly benefit my people.

  Chase straightened, his curiosity piqued.

  Chase: Sure. What is it, Burrow Master?