FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Being on fire watch is honestly a dream come true, I get my own little place in the forest to sit back and drink some coffee while living in the moment. Sitting at my post I take in all the wonders of nature, the beautiful view of trees and mountains, the sounds of birds chirping, and deer galloping, and of course the wonderful breeze you can only find in the wilderness. It's days like this one that really show you just how great nature is. The lake is especially beautiful today, the water is sparkling and you can occasionally see a fish or two jump out. With such an appealing display the only thing on my mind is going fishing.

Standing up, I finish off my coffee before resting the mug on the fence post. Grabbing my fishing gear I head down the creaking steps of my tower, but for some reason as I reach the bottom, I get a strange sense of... deja vu.. something about this is overly nostalgic despite this being my first day on the job.. But, not wanting to waste such a perfect day, I forget the thought entirely and continue my trek to the lake. After a few blissful minutes in the woods I arrive at the lake, with a fishing pole in hand I can already tell today is going to be a great day. The dock was the perfect spot for it. So I placed my coffee cup next to me and set up for a day of pure relaxing fun.

Sitting down at the dock, I cast my line into the lake, waiting for a bite. But for some reason, as I sit here everything's getting a little too quiet. The birds aren't chirping, and the breeze is gone. The silence is making me crave some music, and lucky me! There's a radio right here, turning it on I tune into some jazz.

Then it finally happened, the bobber plunged into the water and the line went rigid. "GOT ONE!" I reeled back, then stopped, to give the fish a false sense of hope, before repeating. Slowly but surely, the fish was nearing the shore. "GOT YA!" Finally I obtain my bounty.. a fish made of pure gold?

That’s weird, golden fishes are saltwater, not freshwater. Perhaps it migrated from England. Suddenly, the jazz music ends.

The radio is interrupted by a harrowing siren that pierces the peaceful air "Warning! This Is Not A Test! I Repeat! This Is Not A Test! A Nuclear Bomb Has Been Launched Upon U.S soil! Seek Out The Nearest Bunker And May God Rest Your Soul."

...I remember now...

The sirens, the phone calls from my loved ones, and… a flash of light. My hands are on fire. I look around me, the forest is lit ablaze. And the lake. Once full with so much life, now a horrific scene of death. I barely see myself in boiling water. But I see what I became, a burning corpse. I remember how I died, how my skin melts off my bones with the wrath of the sun. The stench of brimstone is overwhelming; I am shown what true hell is.

I wake up screaming.

Falling off my makeshift bed onto the ground as the old dusty pile of blankets hit the ground right next to me. Eyes snapping at the large slab of stone that I have been calling my bed for the past week, as I am catching my breath. Sweat is dripping off my body and onto the cold stone floor, I laid there on the ground trying to gather myself. A nightmare. A stupid nightmare ruined my sleep.

Slowly, I get up and off the floor as I recover from my stupor. Before shambling to the door and opening it to the main room. Unlike the room I slept in, this room is covered in cobwebs and thick layers of dust. Only thing noteworthy about this place is the beautiful stone pillar keeping the whole thing standing. The pillar itself is fashioned with gold and gems. It won't surprise me if this isn't the only expensive thing this place has. Closing the door behind me I move toward the entrance of this place. I check my surroundings just in case something is out of place.

There were still some unventured doors here and there.

The lanterns are still lit, strangely. They were like that even when I first arrived. It's a mystery I doubt I'd ever uncover. Old art pieces and tapestry with writings in a language that I don't understand; decorating the walls. All slowly fading away due to time. But looking at them, The only way I can describe it is that it's very 'dwarf-ish'. Not even a joke: the art and tapestries are full of short guys with long beards, doing dwarven things. Fighting, drinking, mining, and I did find a forge in this place when I was exploring it. Most damning evidence to this conclusion could be that everything was the right size for me. Also, everything is so boxy in shape. Seems the architects have no clue what a curve is.

“Ha, it reminds me of that popular video game about mining when I used to play” I think to myself as I reminisce about my old life. A sad smile creeps up on my face as a bit of sorrow begins to build up in me.

But I ignore it and continue forward. Then down the many stairs led by many lanterns which keeps this place well lit. I reach the top of the stairs and go left into the hallway. There are a few doors on my right and left that are storage rooms if I remember right. I did find old weapons and armors. Enough to arm a small militia I suppose. Sure it is nice that I found these things but they aren't for me. I can't use these weapons since they are far too heavy for me. And I never swung a sword before. The only experience I have with a weapon is a wood cutting ax. I was a fire lookout for crying out loud before everything went to hell. "But I was happy when I found the janitor's closet right next to the weapons storage." I say to an empty room.

The armor has the same problem, too heavy and thick for me. Not even a good fit since I'm a rat. I am impressed that these guys can wear these and most likely not suffer from fatigue. Count myself lucky I haven't run into any dwarves in here or I might wound up dead again. I test out the crossbows when I discover one but for the life of me I can't pull the string back to save me. I already have a bow so taking the free arrows is nice for going on a hunt... you know, the more I think of it, I haven't found any gunpowder or guns anywhere. Maybe there is a proper room to hold them?

After shaking my head out of those thoughts, I make my way to the 10 feet tall wooden gate which is slightly covered by a tarp. Uncovering the tarp slightly reveals a 4 feet tall door which is convenient for me. This will allow me to go through without opening the gate.

Wasn't locked as well. What luck. I slowly open the door on the gate. First thing I see are the claw marks right on the other side of the massive gate. Some on the ground here and there as if it was trying to dig through stone. On my right I see rotten old boxes and barrels that have been smashed to bits. Debris littering the floor.

One of the few issues of living in this dwarven home is that something was out to get me. “It knows, doesn't it? Who am I kidding? Of course it did.” Cold chills go down my spine knowing how close the beast was. Just one sturdy wooden gate between us.

There are two exits then. This one and the one that kept me alive for a night.

Question is: is it still here?

Quietly I walk onto a... dock? I believe it is a dock. It has a railing on the side with two long wooden platforms which have a U shape with ramps on it. As well as a strange looking contraption in the middle. I simply deduce that it is an elevator.. “Huh... What even is this place?” The floor creaks as I put one foot on the wooden dock. It is then I realize how high up the mountain I am.

I can see so far over the forest. Mountains that reach the heavens. The unknown world now within my sight. So much to take in.

I glance back inside. This place is absolutely massive. A ship can definitely fit inside. Wait, ship? Dock? I search further inside. There is an old map on one wall, with the language that is beyond me. If I don't believe that I am in another world, then this is the biggest evidence yet. Now what exactly is this place? Signs are barely readable, sadly.

A trading post? Possibly be.

"But…" I say to the hollow mountain. "What happened to the dwarfs? There was no way they just left this place when they put so much work into it." A cold wind blows through the empty room. My hands wrap around my fur body as the chill hits me. “Wait, fur?” I look down at my own form. Everything is bare for the world to see as I forgot to put on my clothes.

"Oh wow, good thing nobody is here." I turn around to head back inside. With the tarp back on right after closing the door, I make sure it was locked so there won't be a surprise the next time I wake up.

When I return to my room, I put the dusty pile of blankets back on the stone bed, then grab my clothing off my backpack, and wear them. A simple white t-shirt and pants with a hole to fit my tail...

“God, I am still not used to this. I still don't understand how I became a rat, I should be dead, DEAD! Yet.” Then I check my only belongings within my large backpack: leather armor, a green hooded cloak and a rat skull mask. Arrows, a crowbar for some reason, a grappling hook, a bedroll…

What the hell!? I must've been too exhausted to remember that and ended up sleeping on some dusty blankets. Well, better late than never.

Back on the list of useful tools: flint and steel, some rope- what is left of my torch. It is the first thing I got my hands on when the damn monster attacked. I'll forever be grateful for it saving my life. Alright, chalk, soap, a waterskin, and finally, some rations. It won't last long sadly.

At the very bottom is a note with weapons under it, it wishes me good luck. Longbow, dagger, and rapier. “I will be honest to myself, when I was taking a death nap from a nuke and woke up to this world, I thought god or something from the afterlife was fucking with me, seriously. I woke up as a mutant rat, finding this backpack filled with the most Dungeons and Dragons rogue shit I could find, and being in a dense forest that I remembered was on fire... I thought I was dreaming.” I place my hands on my face as I try to remember how I end up here.

“This all sounds to me like those trash isekai stuff that my old friend talked about. Did god show up and tell me I was the chosen one and gave me power to make me bullshit powerful? NOPE! For day one, I woke up in a dense forest as a rat guy with these clothes on, finding that note and the backpack filled with those stuff. So thinking none of this was real, I grabbed it and walked in a random direction.” I scream into my own hands remembering how stupid that was. A decision that almost cost me my life.

“Then before I knew it, it was night time, I was starving, and I realized that all of this was real. Of course I panicked, yelled my head off that I was somehow alive again.”

I leave my room to make my way to the dining hall. My tirade hasn't ended there.

“I had trouble sleeping under a log that night. For the past two to five days I have tried my best to learn about this world and how my new body works. So far I have learned that I could partially see in the dark, and have a tail... I'm just a rat that can walk and talk.” I check the kitchen and… right... no food. Unless someone is willing to eat the moldy pile that's no longer edible.

“But I did learn that this world has almost earthly nature: there are trees, flowers, bugs, plants, water, and berry bushes which I did check which one was safe to eat or not. But that is where it ends. So far I saw mushrooms tall as trees, saw crystal coming out of the ground, and a lot of... whispering. Yes I did run out of there as fast as I could.” I sit in one of the many chairs.

“Then day six happened. I... I don't remember how I saw or met that thing that night. All I remember is that I just ran as far away from it. And it followed me all the way here. That tall thing yelling and howling non-stop as it tried to get me, I didn't get a good look at it but thank god I saw that open door at the bottom of that mountain or I might have been killed by that thing.” I start to shake with fright as the idea settles in.

"But hey, good thing that gate wasn't left open." I say to myself thinking it will help my frightened soul. I force a smile on my face as well. "At least... I don't have to pay taxes anymore, hahahaha." My broken laugh fills the empty room. I can hear myself echo throughout the abandoned place.

I'm going to die again, am I?...

Footsteps echo through the spiral stairs with every step. I slowly move my way down, keeping a watchful eye on the darkness. My backpack is rattling with my belongings with the cooking wares from the kitchen. Hearing my own breathing as I scan the series of stone hallways made by the dwarves. I still feel the uneasiness clinging to me as the memories of my past life lingers in my mind.

“Death.” As I continue down the spiral stairs “What will happen if I die again? Will I come back in a different body? If that is how reincarnation works right? l'm not much for Religion, it never really interested me until now.” I kick down one of the pebbles off the step and deeper down the spiral. It vanishes from my point of view, but the sound of it bouncing off a wall reminding me how deep the stairs lead. And how easy it can be if I stumble off here to meet my short-life once more.

I shake the silly idea away. Yet it reminds me just how mortal I truly am.

"I don't like how I could easily die again if I make one-mistake." I look over the railings and stare at the amazing architecture. Some lanterns here and there, a lot more carved out stone hallways. “Man, imagine if you fell off those stairs, breaking your head open-” I slap myself to chase off that dark idea. "God! I need to stop thinking about this stuff!" Exhaling out of my frustration, I tighten my fists. "I need to focus to get some food or I will starve to death" Moving down spiral stairs as I shake my head again. “My mind needs to stop wandering off like that.”

It takes me an hour to find the entrance of this mountain I call home. Opening the door just a crack to check if it is safe; only hearing some birds, and seeing that the sun was still up... “Don't see it, so I think I am good.” I step outside, feeling the warm light of the sun on my body is... nice. Clear blue sky, calm wind. Nature is so beautiful today, it might be my first nice day in this other world. But a bit of fear still lingers in the back of my mind. I don't want to live in fear all the time, I just need to be safe rather than sorry.

I set my backpack onto the ground before cycling through my stuff and take out anything that'll help me for this hunt. Equipping the leather armor for safety, a green hooded cloak I can use to blend with the forest and a rat skull mask... I still have no idea why this is in my backpack. Maybe it's a magical item? If so, then what can it do? I place it on my head and…

...nothing...

"Huh?... I was expecting something more flashy to happen. Maybe it did nothing. But it feels like it's where it belongs. So I'll be keeping it on." I shrug my shoulders at the maybe or maybe not magic mask. Then I grab my longbow and my quiver, as well as the dwarven leather sheath for my dagger. Stock up my quiver with arrows, before wrapping the straps of the dagger sheath around my leg. My attention falls on the last weapon in my arsenal: The rapier.

No holster for it, sadly. Though, of course it makes sense that I can't find any in a dwarf trading post. A rapier is certainly not their style. Which is shown in most media. So I just leave it in the backpack. To be fair, I lack any experience of using such a sword. Sure the same thing goes for the longbow but all you need to do is just pull it back and fire it. Can't be that hard right?

With my backpack in one hand and the longbow in the other, I look around at my environment. The sun is still high in the sky, so that means the north is right in front of me, the south is behind me, and so on. So if I just go to my right, maybe I can find fish or berry bushes, or I might have to eat bugs to survive. Which I will only do if I was ever so desperate.

Heading off to the west, I hope I can get lucky on my hunt and figure out where I am in this world.

Four hours later... So far, I found the used-to-be-outhouse that the mushrooms conquered. . A fog just rolls in out of nowhere when I trek deeper into the woods and can barely see anything. Some wandering later, I gathered more berry bushes, but now… I keep hearing whispers behind me, every time I turn around it just stops. I even did the dreaded horror movie stereotype by saying hello to the foggy woods and not just running the hell out of there... I was far too desperate for food to care, to be honest. A diet of only berries won't fill my stomach, so I need to find fish or hunt.

“Wait. What do animals actually look like in this world?” I mentally question myself. “Do they look like the ones back on earth or weird magic animals... or both?.” As I am walking, I imagine what magical animals would look like. Despite pondering the idea, I keep an eye over my shoulder. Glancing behind me for whatever beast lurks in the shadow. Call it paranoia, or reasonable. But I don't like all that whispering.

Then I see something. I freeze as my eyes finally catch something.

I see... a boar. Not a mystical beast from some fantasy, no. Just a normal boar on top of some rocks with tree roots wrapped around it. l am... a bit disappointed actually. But I guess not everything in this world is going to be crazy magic nonsense or something.

But the boar hasn't noticed me yet... God. I shrug off my backpack and quietly move as best I could. My arm reaches for one of the arrows from my quiver, then pairs it with my longbow and- I can't draw it back. "What?" Despite my confusion I try my best to pull it back even harder. This shouldn't have been an issue. No. Sure the bow is like 6 feet long, and touching the ground with one end- Oh, I haven't considered the ergonomics of my own size. I'm not meant to use a longbow!

I hear a deep growl, then look up to see the boar staring at me. And he seems to be infuriated. "UM?!" Out of panic, I slam my foot into the bow and draw the string back with an arm that extends past my head. Thanks to the terrible mockery of a yoga stance, I have drawn the bow fully. I look extremely ridiculous but I managed to fire it... which just trims a good part out of the boar's leg. It let out a loud high-pitched squealing as the sting registers. It looks angrier than before. The beast jumps off the rock to charge at me. I drop my longbow and dive out of the way just as it barrels through. It crashes face first into my backpack so badly that it somehow knocks itself over. The beast is vulnerable now that it is on its side.

Seeing my time is now, I unsheathe my dagger. With a mighty yell, I run up to it aiming right at the neck non-stop. My arms move on their own as they bring down the dagger over and over. I am fully immersed in my blind assault, so desperate to stay alive that it takes me a minute to realize that it is no longer breathing. "Holy... holy crap. I did it." I glance down at the bloody extremely-mangled boar and notice that my backpack is still on its face. I retrieve the bag, before taking a step back from the corpse. I felt somewhat sick, yet proud. "I actually killed something." My hands, dagger, and clothing are now red thanks to the encounter. A testament to my victory. Strangely, it doesn't bother me enough. "Great, I need to find a way to get this blood off of me." Miraculously, my bag is free of any filth.

"I can help you with that."

My head shoots up, I turn around looking for the source of that voice I heard. "WHO'S THERE?!" I snap at the foggy forest, my eyes dart around every shadow.

"Down here." The mysterious voice calls out to me.

Following instructions, I face down and see... a normal brown squirrel? “Hello there." He greets me while he waves its tiny paw. The normal squirrel continues to look at me as my brain reboots itself to try to understand what is going on, because a talking squirrel is the last thing on my mind.

"Is he good?" I hear another voice to my left, and I just now notice the gathering swarm. Just a swarm of squirrels everywhere. In the trees, on the ground, on the rocks. Just so many eyes looking at me. And the whispers, they were whispering to each other... Wait, are they the source of the whispering?

"I-I… Hi?" I don't know how to deal with this; I am surrounded by an army of talking squirrels. A frightening moment in my life.

The talking squirrel faces the dead pig. "Hey, we can find you a lake to clean that blood off of you." He points at the bloody boar's body with his tiny little paw. "In return, you give us that." Well, I didn't expect this, but it did give me an idea.

Breathe in, breathe out. "Hey!" The squirrels become silent as their attention is now on me, which is honestly terrifying. "W-what about this. Can you bring me to a river so I can find some fish and as well remove the blood off of me? And I will give you the dead boar in return?"

The talking squirrels look back and forth at each other. "Was that not the plan? You probably didn't hear me. Kinda hilarious considering those big ears of yours. Okay, it is a deal." He says with a nod of his head.

"Thank you." I thank the squirrel mafia, grabbing all my stuff and the arrow I shot. Then the swarm closes in on the dead boar and claims it. The sound alone is horrifying. Hundreds of little chewing noises tore through the corpse. A mound of bloodthirsty squirrels. All writhing and moving just to get a piece of meat. It takes them 10 minutes to finish it. All that is left are... yeah now I have a fear of squirrels.

After the squirrels finish up with their brutal assault, one of the squirrels or maybe the same one, runs up to me. Then motions me to follow. And so I did. Not like it is my biggest mistake. I follow the rodent for a while who is leading me the opposite way I came from, before revealing to me a river. Then the little critter vanishes into the fog.

“At this point in my new life. I need to just. accept it, yes there is still a part of me that doesn't believe any of this is real. And I'm terrified by all of this. But if I am going to survive in this new world, I need to try my best to understand stuff in this world and accept it.” I mentally monologue. I place my gear on the ground, then remove my skull mask off my face. I look down at the reflection in the water. A rat's face stares back at me, no longer human in appearance.

"This is going to take some time to get used to that." I tell myself. I take my gear off of me, as well as my clothing. Opening my backpack to get my bar of soap. Taking a step into the river only to sink down. I struggle up to the surface before coughing my lungs out. A minute passes by until I stop with a sore throat. "God... ok. forgot how short I am now. I need to remember that next time. At least it aint the ocean." My hand reaches out of the water for my bloody dagger.

The cleaning finally starts, and first on my list is my current favorite weapon. The one that brought me victory.

"Time to make a plan, first things first. I need to make a map of this place to find other food sources in this weird forest. Hunting animals is going to be a lot of trouble for me since I don't know what kind of tricks they can do now." With the dagger done, I place it back on the edge of the river before moving on. "Which it reminds me as well that I need to start to train with my weapons, I'm sure that boar could have easily gutted me if I didn't roll away from it." The blood finally comes off of my leather armor finally, now it's next to the dagger. Next is the mask.

"As well I should switch my longbow with a shortbow in that dwarf place, I need to try out something small to understand how the bow works before I start with the longbow. for last, medicine and money... which is weird that I didn't find any gold coins in that trading post, I'm guessing the squirrels must have grab all of it since it's very shiny for them.'' As I continue rambling on to myself and cleaning my clothing, a sudden gust of wind blows past me. I stop my chatter and remember that I need to make a fire so I don't end up freezing to death.

My mask is clean and yet there is still some blood stain on the clothing but it will do for now. After putting it on the pile of clean stuff, I crawl out of the river before shaking myself dry; it's the best I can do without a towel. "Time to find some-AAAHHHH!!!"

A sudden sting.

I lift up my tail to see a fish on the end of it. A... salmon, I think…? My dad told me about how they swim upstream from the ocean to spawn in freshwater rivers and that's the best time to get them. Wait, did that mean an ocean is nearby? Does that mean I am on an island? I need to explore to confirm that but now, fish time. Thank whatever jerk God that placed me here and gave me a tail. Easy fishing for sure.

5 or 6 hours later, and the day is still burning. I light up a campfire with some dry leaves and sticks. Using some boiled water from a pot, I refill my waterskin before cooking some fish. Prepping the fish is easy thanks to the tools I have on hand. I keep doing the same trick with my tail and end up with a lot more fish... it did hurt a little but it is worth it. It's been a good day so far. Other than the creepy fog that is still around, I keep seeing those squirrels up in the trees that stare at me before running away. Still, the day is good so far.

"Man, if dad sees how I am doing all on my own, he would be proud of me." I grin from ear to ear as I remember all the good memories I have with my dad. Fishing with him, watching horror movies with him, showing me how to change a tire... him getting a dog for my birthday. And when... Mom got me my first bike, got me ice cream when I am sad and- and… Grief settles upon me. All those good times with mom and dad are long gone, my pet is gone, my friends are gone, everything IS gone. I finally realize that I am truly alone, too busy trying to survive to even notice. “I.... This is just a nightmare. I wish I was home.”

Those same words repeat in my head over and over and over. Wishing to be somewhere I actually belong. While staring blankly at the campfire. Silence is deafening. I don't know how long I was staring at the campfire before I felt rain hit the top of my head. I sigh and look up to the sky...

… Why is it suddenly clear…? I touch the top of my head and look down at my hand to see blood. What? I stutter away and onto my feet facing toward the trees above. There I see. A dead. Giant. Bat.

"What could’ve killed that thing!?" I snap around at my surroundings for the culprit. The body is fresh, so whoever did it is still around. I dump what water is left in my cookware onto the campfire to put it out, then grab all my clothes and toss them in my backpack. I don't care that I have to run back home naked, I am not staying here to find out who iced that bat. I begin to make a quick inventory check. The mask in my backpack, the dagger, the quiver, and th-wait. Where is my longbow?

I scan my surroundings, finding it on the roots of a nearby tree. How did it get there? I run over to the tree to retrieve it but I trip on an exposed root. “Damn it.” I try to move my legs but for some reason, they aren't budging. Confused, I look at my legs and witness the tree roots snaking around me.

"What the f-AAAHHHH!" I am pulled into the air and toward the tree as I hold onto the longbow tightly. Never before was I ever fearful of my life. The roots bring me over to the center mass of the tree. And what happens next I can only describe as a scene from a horror movie.

The surface of the tree begins to shift in place, the bark slowly breaking apart to reveal the face within. It reveals beneath a mix of wood, blood, veins, and meat. The only thing that looks human is the face, and it is staring right at me. "Tserof Siht Stnuah Taht Tsaeb Eht Era Uoy!? Evac Nevrawd Eht Morf Era Uoy, Tiaw! Tsaeb, Ereh Eb Ton Dluohs Uoy!? Ereh Uoy Dnes Tnedor Das Taht Did!?" I can't understand what it said, it is pure gibberish. So... I strike it in the face with my longbow which in turn breaks my weapon in two. The action is enough to cause the monster to drop me.

I have no time to mourn my longbow, I climb up back on my feet as fast as I can, grab my backpack, and run like hell back home. I hear the creature wail as I escape, but as I am running, the forest seems to shift before my very eyes. Faces of fury and malice growing from the bark of the wood. All eyeing me as if I have done them wrong. Their dark black empty eyes staring right at my soul. I ignore them and just focus more on getting back home.

I am out of breath, my heart is beating like crazy but I make it back home. I take a look at the forest and my god… so many moving trees. It is against what's natural as these trees start crawling toward me. I open the door and slam it close behind me. Using anything to barricade the door with.

As I finish my work, there is a deep rooted dread in my chest. A harrowing nightmare is just outside that door.

"I think I know what happened to those dwarves.”

Scanning the many hallways carved by the dwarves, I wonder what their goal is. They all lead to nothing but a dead end. My guess is simply that they strip the mountain for ores and gems. Without prior knowledge of dwarven culture, I can only assume. The spiral stairs that are now inaccessible with whatever junk or furniture I can find to clog it up, just to prevent anyone from ascending and descending. Circling it, I make sure no blockade is out of place. Knowing what's out there, I can't be so careless. It's been two weeks, the temperature noticeably shifts, the mines feel hotter, and dealing with it makes me wish this place has AC or something to deal with it.

God... the stuff I live with, all the comforts of my old life, all the good things I used to have that I took for granted before it was ripped away from it. I look over at the table with my mask, cloak, and leather armor on it. Which I am reluctant to wear since it's too hot right now. How do these short people even handle this heat? There must be something that will help.

I have to deal with being a rat now, and other issues that come with the fact.

Finding out there are living tree people outside of this mountain after trying to find food is one thing, and now it's summer. Call it instincts, but I feel it in the wind. "I hate it here so much." I walk over to the table and swipe the mask off of it. I continue to wander around, aimlessly walking through one of the many entrances of the mines. Venturing deeper and seeking out a cold place in this hell hole. My only goal as of now.

From the end, I can hear my own footsteps echoing back to me. Amazing hearing is one benefit of being a bipedal rat. I look at the mask in my hand, the empty eye-sockets glare at me.

"What do you hope to achieve?" A deep, yet charismatic voice speaks to me. The skull feels a little heavier for some odd reason.

"Trying to find a cold spot in this place." I answer before staring ahead. It takes me a few seconds before I stop in my tracks. When I realize that the voice is actually that of the mask, I look around, thinking it might be a squirrel. So far... nothing. No pitter patter of their little paws. Their little chewing and chittering. No, it's dead silent. I am alone.

Which means only one thing.

"Oh great, Shepherd you are now hallucinating that your own mask is talking to you." I facepalm as I keep on walking in the mineshaft, my footsteps echoing once more.

I hear a chuckle coming from the skull mask. "Hallucination? You know hallucination means you are seeing things, not hearing things- right, my rat friend?”

I shake the skull vigorously as a precaution. Empty. “No, auditory hallucinations are a thing, you know. And I wouldn't be surprised if this damn heat is the cause of it.”

“Hm, indeed, Shepard. I was wrong about the subject. But perhaps this is real, not a figment of your mind. What then?” The skull asks me.

"Okay, I'll bite. " I sit down on the cold floor, it feels nice. Like the stone is siphoning the heat in my body. This is by far the best move I have yet made. "So, two things. One, tell me something I don't know if you are real, and two... Why are you talking to me?" If the mask has eyes, I am pretty sure it would be looking at me curiously.

"Let's see" The mask said "You are in the black forest or 'Elf Land' as some crudely call it, but for others, it's the place that nobody would ever enter alone. I am surprised that you have survived this long on your own."

"What" His words are confusing me. Or is it my words? I have truly gone to the deep end thanks to this lonely beginning of mine. "What do you mean 'Elf Land'? So far, I just met monsters, killer trees and squirrels."

I hear a noise from the mask that mimics my own confusion. "Do... do you not realize that those 'killer trees' are elves, right?..."

My brain just stops at hearing that information, it takes me a few minutes to understand what he just said.

"What... WHAT!? WHAT DO YOU MEAN THOSE GORE TREES ARE ELVES?!" I go into overlock, ranting and trying to think of theories of why they are just walking trees. Did they become trees on purpose, was it an accident, are they born this way?! My mouth is like a machine gun of words as I keep talking and talking. Endlessly, I try to justify my findings and how I even learned about it. The idea that those things out there are elves is somehow beyond my expectations. It is just unbelievable to me. Is it a curse? This monster that lurks in this forest must've done something. My mind races to find a proper answer as my view on elves begin to dramatically change.

The sound of laughter interrupts my thought process. Ceasing my barrage of sentences.

"HAHAHAHA YOU- you are fascinating! Did your parents never teach you about the outside world? It's understandable, the truth is terrifying for those who are too young to understand it. But for the other question you ask about me, the reason why I am talking to you is... I was... curious as to why a Ratfolk is out here all alone... but now. You have my attention."

"I......" I don't know what to say, this is not a hallucination, this is real. Which of course; I should have seen this coming since this is a magical land after all, everything is now possible and something like this in this world is normal. God I am an idiot.

Somehow, some way. I found an unlikely friend in this world. Moreover, it is a damn mask. I have truly gone mad.

I turn my head away from my mask and massage my eyes. I could have sworn I saw something in the dark looking back at me. I don't know what it is, real or not, I am not going to stay here all day. "So before I go out to find food and water, what is your name?" There is a moment of silence before he speaks.

"The name is Henry. Your new friend." I get up and make my way out of the mines to get ready for the day.

"Ok... Henry. Can you tell me about the elves of these lands?." When I inquire about the people of this land, it feels as if he is smiling back at me...

---

Somewhere else in a far away land, in a village somewhere else. A tiny magical creature that resembles a tiny brown bear sleeps peacefully on a pleasant, sunny day in their own home.

That is, until her alarm clock sounds.

After opening her eyes with a little groan of frustration, she slowly moves her hand to the offending machine and silences it. Her name is Daisy and she has been the familiar for magical girls or a mascot as it is called nowadays. For 30 years. As she gets off her back, she makes her way to her closet and opens it; trying to figure out what to wear for today. A black sunflower-patterned dress or a t-shirt and shorts? She decides to pick the sunflower one. It takes some time to put it on, then a yellow hair bow clip on her ear.

Once done, she takes a look at the mirror on her wall.

Sadly, Daisy's expectation isn't met as she stares at her own reflection. Her fur is faded, and the evidence of time is evident around her eyes. She is long past her youth.

The face of a woman who has been through so much stares back at her. She may be a bear, but she's also a person.

"Wow... right... I'm 48. Hitting 50 in a few years."

Daisy sighs, forcing a smile on face. Her hand goes for the makeup kit she keeps in the medicine cabinet. Something to lighten up her fur a bit.

"Pretend to be 20 Daisy, there are a lot of magical girls you gotta help today, got to make sure you are cool like them.”

To be relatable with the kids isn't as easy as it was back when she first started her job. To be the magical familiar of generations of magical girls. Instructing them for a full ten years, guiding them through life. This is her calling, like her ancestors before her. And it is up to Daisy to bring honor to her family.

Does she even have a childhood?

No time to think about it. There are teens to teach. And wisdom to unravel.

She begins to move toward the kitchen, which is tastefully decorated with a few flowers. Opening the fridge, seeing a leftover sandwich from last night, she grabs it from the fridge unceremoniously and eats it. She closes the fridge before moving her way to the radio on the table, then switching it on to see what is going on today.

"On today's news, there were reports of a monster at-" The radio goes silent, cutting the news reporter off completely. Confused, Daisy finishes her sandwich and checks on the radio why it stopped working. She opens the rear panel to examine the mana crystal. They are dead... great, and to make this worse, she forgot to buy some new ones.

"I need to remember to buy some when I get back home." But she needs to get to work first.

She gathers her things which consists of an ID, A hand bag that's known as the Spacious Pouch for holding a lot of stuff for when things go wrong- like always- and a sunflower straw hat. Who knows what the weather will be today, never wrong to be too careful.

"Now it's time to get ready for the day!" She opens the door and steps outside, a warm breeze goes by. Closing the door behind her, she sees her sunflower garden is in full bloom, a beautiful sight to behold. Taking pride, she can't help but smile at work.

Something in Daisy's heart is telling her that today is going to be perfect.

Walking out of her front yard, she sees her human neighbor watering can on some roses, she waves her hand at him "Hey" and he turns around to wave back.

"Hey Daisy!"

She continues on her way, taking only 4 or 5 minutes to get to the train station. Seeing there are a few people in line, she inquires with the person in the ticket booth about the news today since her radio didn't work. Just curious about the current events.

A minute has passed and she is now face to face with the ticket booth person, Jim. A frail and aging human who is 60 years old with glasses and a big beard on his face.

"Hey Jim, so um... My radio isn't working today so I miss the news. The only thing I heard was a report of a monster before it was cut out. How bad is it?" Jim just gives Daisy a smile.

"Well good news for you little gardenia, it was not an actual monster at the Autumn Kingdom. It was an art sculpture that someone was making of a monster."

Daisy feels a sense of relief that it is not an actual monster. "That's good. But why would someone make a monster sculpture?"

Jim just shrugs his shoulders. "Who knows, kids are always up to something these days, but here." He hands her a ticket which surprises her. Just as she is about to grab her purse, Jim holds out a hand and stops her.

"But I didn't pay for it."

Jim just pats her on her head "Don't worry my friend, it's on the house." Daisy smiles at him. "But one more thing, here." He pulls out an umbrella. "I forgot to tell you that it's going to rain later in the day. So be careful."

Daisy raises her hand "Don't worry, I always carry one in my Spacious Pouch, so I will be fine but thanks for telling me that, Jim." He nods his head and puts the umbrella away.

She moves away from the ticket booth, taking a seat on one of the many benches. She distracts herself by grabbing a book from her Spacious Pouch and reading it. After 10 minutes the train finally arrives at the station. The door opens to show a dwarven train conductor.

"All aboard! show your ticket please!"

One by one, everyone steps up to the conductor and gets their ticket punched. Daisy is the last to meet with the dwarf, her ticket ready in her hands.

"Hey Daisy, how's life treating you?"

She hands him her ticket. "I have been doing good. Have to buy some new mana crystal when I get to the city."

The conductor nods his head as he punches the ticket. "Good luck with that, I heard some jackass stole crates full of them. Because of that, some people jacked up the prices for it."

Daisy just stared at the dwarf in disbelief "...Wh...what do you mean someone stole some crates full of mana crystal?"

"Thieves. No clue what goes on in their heads." He turns around and enters the train with Daisy behind him.

"When did this happen? How did this happen, where did this happen?" So many questions firing off in one go, which makes the dwarf stop in his tracks. Turning around and raising a palm at her.

"Look, I'm just a train conductor. Not a news reporter. If you want to know more about that, go ask your magic guild or something. I got to train to run." With that, he opens a sliding door and moves his way to the head of the train. Daisy, still with a concerned look on her face, decides to take a seat near by the door. Her mind starts to wonder who and why want to steal crates full of mana crystals…? Well actually there's a lot of reasons.

Sell them for money, use the crystals for their own gain, or even worse... consume them!

The thought of that makes her shiver. She recalls the stories she had heard about a poor guy who tried it and was taken to the hospital right away; it took five hours to remove everything from his body while still keeping him alive. See, mana crystals have a strange effect when consumed. Altering the mind and allowing many to see images which are different for each person. Only a fool would even dare to turn a source of power into a recreational drug. "What was that person thinking?" She didn't seem to keep that thought in her head as she felt the train start to move.

As the train slowly picks up speed, she wonders what kind of magical girl she is going to meet. Like Daisy's mother before her, and her mother's mother, Daisy will be responsible for the next generation of protectors.

She would've returned to her book for the whole ride, but the scenery is just amazing. Farms and towns in the far distance, like a beautiful landscape painting. Soon the train enters the forest. It was the Elder Woods, a forest that covers most of the east side of the region. Covering even the skies as the train goes deeper. The tunnel of luscious green is a sense of calming effect. Whatever ray of sunlight that pierces through the thick forest sparkles on the dew of the leaves. Bringing the stars to her.

Once the train exits the forest, she meets the shining blue ocean. A series of islands not just in the distant waters, but high above the skies as well. Remnants of the old world, when the land was once one. Yet just as beautiful as the stories of old. The train rides the rails that span over the ocean, leading to the mainland. The sea is just as blue as the skies, but teeming with kinds of life. As she appreciates the awe inspiring scenery, Daisy takes a look around the cabin. From dwarves to humans, different races mingling together. Chatting to pass the time. A sense of unity brings a smile on Daisy's face as she returns to admiring the view outside.

Just in time to watch a seagull fly by.

Sometimes a book can't replicate the beauty of the world with mere words.

And as the train finally enters the mainland, Daisy sees the capital of her home country, Sunnyfalls. A grand city at the heart of it all. A symbol of peace and serenity. And above the city is the castle in the skies. Though massive and imposing, it doesn't cast a shadow no matter where the sun is. As if it doesn't exist. At the center of the castle, is the pride of her country, an undying tree frozen in the season of autumn. Which inspired the name of her home, the Autumn Trees. You can even see the roots of this titan of a tree protruding from beneath the castle. As if reaching out to the city below it.

This is where her responsibilities begin. The city of Sunnyfalls.

A series of towers litter the lands, ever watchful for threats that may come. An ethereal eye watches over them as the train goes by.

She can't help but smile as the train soon enters the station. Her heart pounds in her chess as she feels the excitement of her new job. This is what she was trained for!

She hears footsteps as the sliding door open on her right. "We are now at the Sunnyfalls city!" The dwarf makes his announcement. On cue, everyone gets up from their seats as the train doors open and start to leave one by one.

Daisy is the last one to get up and leave the train, she waves her hand at the train conductor goodbye and he waves as well. As she leaves the train and enters the city, she hopes she can make a good impression on the magical girl.

...Tick tock tick tock, as the clock goes by...

As she waits within a fancy and well decorated office, a nameless girl looks through the glass wall to her left to see how much life is happening in the city. She observes a variety of people moving about, whether on bicycles, trams, or, in a rare instance, an airship, as she witnesses someone going to the castle in the sky.

'It's... amazing. I've never seen the city up close like this.'

It felt like she could stare out of the window forever. That is until she hears the door open.

She sees a bunny holding a briefcase walk in. He is sharply dressed in a black suit and tie, his eyes look hollow and tired. The sunken shadow under his eyes is a clear sign of lack of sleep. He's about half her height, but only if he straightens his back. Seems like this bunny slouches far too often. His lips are locked in a tired curve as both ends point down. She can see it in his eyes, he has seen enough of the world and is ready to sleep the rest of his life away.

Despite having such a clean appearance, his true emotions make her feel bad for him.

He turns his head to look at her and catches the way she looks at him, which elicits a sigh. "Yes, I do look horrible and yes I am used to this reaction. Now, let's get to business." Saying in a deadpan voice. He has a voice that is unfitting for someone as adorable and cuddly looking. "Hello Marie, I am Director Butter, the head of this fine institution. And I will be your friendly mascot today. You will be working for the Bureau of the Starlight Defenders; so I welcome you with open arms." His introduction sounded like he rehearsed it throughout the years.

He hops over to the desk and leaps on top of it, then he turns to face her. He places down his briefcase and takes out a piece of paper. Despite owning this office, his desk is far too large for him. Perhaps it is not for him but for the larger people in the building. A tad bit awkward to sit in front of a tiny desk and have to look down on the Director.

“So let's check your biography. You are human with white skin, brown hair, green eyes, freckles-”

“Is this necessary, mister?”

“I prefer to be accurate with these interviews. I cannot ignore every detail. If I miss even one, I fear it might be catastrophic.”

She can only shut her mouth as he begins again.

“Now, where were we? Right. Of course it's obvious that you are female so let's skip that. From the countryside-" He continues on talking about her biography… The girl doesn't know how to feel about this. He keeps on talking about the information provided to him by her.

'Is this... normal in the big city? It feels awkward just sitting here and doing nothing. Maybe i can ask-'

"Marie."

Butter's voice derails her train of thought. "Y-yes?!" She trips on her words as she fixes her posture. Butter gives a hard stare with a blank look on his face.

"I hope you are listening because I want to ask you an important question: Why do you want to become a magical girl?"

Silence. For a moment, Butter waits for an answer.

"Well...um... I always want to see the world. And I am a damn hoot in this magical business, so I thought about taking responsibility and joining the Starlight Defenders." Marie smiles as she waits for a response from the Director.

It feels like hours before he did. "...Huh... Well, that is a surprise. Usually the other magical girls always say: 'I want to do good', 'help others out' etc. That is a new one. Many are always selfless, yes, but you are quite honest. A little too honest."

"Is... is that a bad thing?" She asks curiously, the Director shakes his head

"No. But I have to say, it will be interesting to have that with your mascot." He says while grabbing some more paper to check over. "Now... where is she?"

As if on cue, the door slams open to reveal a small bear in a sundress with a sunflower motif. "I'M HERE, I'M HERE!" She yells as she stops in place to catch her breath "I... I was... I was lost in the... city. For a bit..." She takes a moment to get some air before straightening her back. "I am here. To help with the new magical girl." She takes a look at Marie, which brings a bit of confusion to her face.

"Howdy there!" Marie waves her hand at her soon to be partner. "My name is Marie, and boy it sure is exciting to work with you!" She sticks out her hand, Daisy shakes it in return.

"Name is Daisy." She smiles.

Marie chuckles a bit. "Daisy? I thought your name would be Sunny since you are wearing so many sunflowers on you." Both of them laugh.

Which is interrupted by Butter clearing his throat. "So, since you are now here. I have a job for you, something easy for the both of you, just a simple scouting mission." He says as he pulls out a folder.

"The elves gave a report of a... 'disturbance' at Snowfall Mountain. Someone or something has been living there for some unknown reason. They didn't tell us a lot of detail, and because of that we don't know if this will become a problem or not." Butter hands the folder over to Marie. "Now you need to get to the Research Sector in level negative 3 and teleport to the dwarven kingdom BSD branch; hand them that file and take an airship to the Snowfall Mountain. they will do all the heavy lifting from there and you just report back if you find something there."

This causes Marie to raise her brow. "Can't we just use flying magic just to get there faster?" She asks innocently.

Before the Director can explain, Daisy speaks up first. "Because! It might catch the attention of the Iron Spears and which will cause us a lot of trouble if we just fly there all willy and nilly." Saying it with a smile on her face like a kid stating a true fact about dinosaurs.

"Oh... that makes sense actually." Marie says in surprise, a loud thump causing both of them to turn their heads to see the Director on the ground.

"Since that is done, let's head to the elevator." He hops his way to the door, jumps up the doorknob and opens it. He makes his way down the hallway as the new magical girl & her partner follows them, passing by Marie’s peers and some magical boys. If Marie remembers right, they are called Princes right?

The institute seems to be buzzing with activity as everyone walks in such a hurry to their destination. Some greet the Director with respect as they go by. A few give Marie a strange look. Considering how everyone is dressed, Marie stands out too much with her casual clothes. Even the animal familiars are far more stylish than the new girl. It is a very colorful workplace, straight out of a young girl's dream.

It takes a minute to find the elevator. They step in and Butter has to jump up to hit the button. As they slowly go down, part of Marie's mind doesn't believe that she is going to be a real magical girl. She feels nervous, but a small paw pats her leg and she sees Daisy look up at her.

"Don't worry, as long as we stick together, everything will be fine."

Marie smiles at Daisy, the small bear reminds her of her mom a bit. As the moment passes, they hear the elevator ding and the doors open. They watch Butter hop out of the elevator and gesture to follow him; they have reached the Research Sector.

As they walk down the hallway, they see different paths labeled with words that read 'Alchemical Research', 'Magic Theories', 'Monster Classification' and so much more. Even the workers on this side of the institute are wearing lab coats.

"This is the research area of the Starlight Defenders. Here, we study and record all forms of magic and life for the safety of the people. Forgive me if you aren't receiving proper orientation but time is of the essence. At the end of the hallway, you will meet Dr. Bob who is head of the teleportation division, he will give you your ID and start your first mission." He turns to face both of them "Good luck on your first day." He hops through the middle of them and back into the elevator.

Marie and Daisy stare at each other for a few seconds before nodding. They make their way to the teleportation division, and Daisy is the first one at the door. "After you." She insists, letting Marie open the door and revealing a very bald man with a beard standing in the center of the room. His lab coat is wrinkled and unkept, as if he is far too busy to even bother cleaning himself up. He is too deep in his notes to notice them at first.

"Hello there!" He greets them the moment he realizes he isn't alone. "You must be the new recruit! You may call me Dr. Bob, and I am here to help you with your first teleportation." Reaching out his hand to them, Marie shakes it happily.

"But what about our IDs?" Daisy asks curiously.

"Oh these?" He produces two cards out of his pocket. "These are made ahead of time." He hands both of them their IDs. Marie and Daisy look at their IDs in amazement. "With these, it will help you with your transformation."

Then he makes his way to a weird looking machine. He presses some buttons, and it begins to come to life.

"Now. When it's done charging up, you two will be teleported to the dwarven kingdom branch and yes, Butter told me ahead of time that you two are going." When he is done talking, the floor beneath their feet begins to light up.

A series of lines appear on the floor. All connecting to form a magical circle. A strange ring fills their ears as the circle rises up and disappears over and over in blinding speed. This goes on for a few more seconds before the strange ring turns into a soft hum as the world around them changes. One moment, they were at Dr. Bob's workplace. Next, they are here. The teleportation is seamless. As if they simply left through a door.

The architecture of the dwarven kingdom branch is a far cry from the main location of the BSD. In layman's terms, this place is less elegant.

A group of dwarves gathers before them. They are unlike the ones both have seen in their lives. Some might say that these are proper dwarves even. Robust and stout.

“Howdy!” Marie quickly greets them.

“Aye, let's be done with this. Come on, the both of you.” Marie and Daisy assume that this is the leader of the group. “Marie and Daisy. Butter already called and told me yer names. Call me Stonebreaker. Ship’s ready for us.”

The two follow the group out of the teleportation room. They see how different the Bureau of Starlight Defenders act differently in the dwarven kingdom. Of course the majority of the workers and magical girls are dwarves. And a surprisingly lack of magical boys, or Princes as they are officially called. Seems like the dwarven men prefer to pursue other careers than join the BSD. But… seeing the dwarven women… they are certainly tougher looking than the ones at home. As Marie goes by, a few of them give her a glare. This place is extremely different from the main branch.

The dwarves lead them to an elevator. A marvel of dwarven engineering. Able to fit even a car or two.

“Butter didn't tell you this, but this mission is under wraps.” Stonebreaker informs them. “Meaning this isn't recorded.”

“Why? Is this mission that important?” Marie questions.

“If it's that important… how come we're the ones going?” Daisy adds.

Stonebreaker sighs. “Because you two aren't in the records yet. We don't want anyone to find out about this mission not until we have some bearings of the situation.”

Daisy hums as she understands fully. “Because this might be a false alarm? Or perhaps some ploy from Iron Spears.”

“Now you get it.” The dwarf grunts. “For all we know, the elves are only seeing things. Or it's another prank. No, those woodland sprites were far too spooked to lie to us. So we can only hope it isn't about the Iron Spears.”

The elevator stops and they arrive on the airship docks. The group files out and approaches one airship ready to sail. Stonebreaker helps the two BSD agents aboard the airship and they embark on their mission.

Marie feels a sense of excitement as she looks over the rails. The ship begins to fly out with Stonebreaker at the wheel. The rest of the dwarves begin to keep the ship in top shape as they depart. When it leaves the docks, Marie gasps as she discovers that they just left the highest point of a mountain. This is where the dwarven branch of the BSD is at. And down at the base of the mountain is the rest of the city. They look like ants from where she's looking. The mountain itself is a grand example of dwarven might.

Marie can see dozens upon dozens of exits and entrances around the mountain. A few airships enter and exit the mountain from the number of docks. Some bigger, some smaller. It's hard to tell.

Even Daisy is enjoying the view.

As they reach the highest point in the sky, Daisy and Marie are treated with a hand scenery. The world is now visible to them. Many landmarks and cities can be seen across the lands. The ocean seems to grow the more they watch it. As they leave the territory of the Autumn Trees, they begin to see the largest mountain in the lands rising from the horizon. Snowfall Mountain.

The imposing mountain is far greater than they've heard. Once a place for dwarven unity and trading, now abandoned by those that called it their home.

“Didn't think I'd be here. My grandfather once told me about this place when he was a wee lad.” Stonebreaker tells them. “See… when the dwarves first made this place, they wanted it to be a neutral zone just so our kind could connect with the rest of the dwarves in the South. Despite it all, we are still blood.”

Stonebreaker eases the ship to the north face of the mountain where the docks are located. He and the crew slowly bring the ship down.

“Then what happened?” Marie asks.

Stonebreaker scoffs. “Both sides didn't like the idea very much. Think it'll allow spies to go through much easier. Then it started to teeter towards war. Bah! That's how the elves stole this island from us dwarves!” His knuckles whiten as his grip around the wheel clenches. “The Autumn Trees immigrated a population of elves into the forest below then claimed it as their land. Kicking out everyone from the island!”

“Don't remember reading anything about that.” Daisy confesses.

“Only the sons of Thornbeard know about it. Everyone else outside the dwarven lands are unaware. This is one of the many reasons why this mission of ours is under wraps. The BSD doesn't want the big wigs at Sunnyfalls city to know. So we better work fast.”

The ship docks and the dwarves immediately fasten the ropes to the bollards. Once the ship is safely docked, they extend the ramp down to the platform.

“Alright lads! Fan out and scout out the place in pairs! If you see something, report quickly and do not engage!” Stonebreaker instructs them.

The dwarves are quick and efficient with their work. Daisy tries to help out as much as she can but she doesn't stray too far from Marie.

As the dwarves scout the area, Marie stares at the withered map on the wall. Her eyes trace the claw marks that are all over the place. It is somewhat a frightening sight. Whatever they're supposed to find in this place, is something she hasn't seen before. A beast of sorts. The large gate is wide open, and a few dwarves are already going deeper into the mountain. She begins to use her detective skills and look for more clues.

There are some footprints on the dusty floor. Barely visible to the human eyes. Some traces of magic are in the air, something that shouldn't be around if this mountain is supposed to be vacant.

And she can smell it. Something that doesn't belong.

She catches the sound of tightening rope. Marie might have assumed that it is just the ship, with the tethers holding it in place to keep it from flying away. But there's the racket from working gears. Her eyes snap over to the source, an elevator is in use.

Marie rushes over to the edge and catches the sight of the elevator returning. “Daisy, do you have binoculars or anything!?”

Daisy reaches into her Spacious Pouch and retrieves a pair of binoculars. Handing it over to Marie, the girl begins to scan the forest edge below.

As she pans from left to right, she sees the culprit behind the report. Two of them. A Ratfolk and… his shadow? No… it's something else. The thing, whatever it is, is towering over the Ratfolk. The shadow snaps toward her, their eyes meet. Marie feels her heart skip a beat and her blood runs cold. That thing must be why the elves are frightened. This rat and its… true self. A beast.

“There he is!” Marie grabs Daisy and jumps off the edge. The small bear woman begins to scream out her heart as they plummet down the mountain. Stonebreaker can only hope she solves the issue before anything else happens.

The Ratfolk walk into the forest and the shadow follows.

Just before she hits the ground, Marie reaches her free hand and uses her magic to cushion their fall. She repositions Daisy in her arms just before she runs into the forest. Her boots leave tracks on the forest floor as she tracks down her target. Faces peek out from the forest as the elves wake up. But they don't bat an eye as they watch Marie dash before them.

Soon they find their mark.

The rat is busy grabbing some berries and mushrooms. Stuffing them into his pockets hastily. Marie places Daisy down gently then strikes a pose as she announces herself. “Halt! You've been troubling these elves for far too long!”

The rat jolts as he realizes he isn't alone. He stares at them strangely for a moment. Marie gets a good look at him and she can see the skull clearly under his hood. An undead. She scoffs at the sight of such faults against nature. And he seems happy to see them.

“Guess you're one of those types that don't talk!”

She grabs her ID. Her information is written on it, and though it may seem like a normal item to have, Marie can feel the magic within. She calls from it and draws out the power. The winds itself shift as she bathes the area around her in a pink light. The rat stares at her with an even stranger look than before.

The light begins to dance as she feels the magic envelope her. It feels so warm. A familiar sense of home. Marie closes her eyes as she lets herself be consumed by the magic. And in a burst of light, her transformation is complete. Gone is her casual wear as a pink frilly dress takes its place. The ID itself transforms into a wand, her weapon against the darkness of this world. And with it, she shall vanquish the foe.

“In the name of the Starlight Defenders, I will defeat you!”

The rat stares at her dumbly. His expression is frozen as if he is doubting what he sees. He looks confused by the whole thing. And his expectations seem to be questioned as she stands in front of him.

She wastes no time and casts a spell. “LASER BEAM!” Her wand charges up and a pillar of light erupts from it. Which strikes the undead and beheads him with his skull flying off as he lands on the ground with a loud thud.

"What... what the fuck just happen?" That is all I could ask as I am now staring up at the sky, wondering what just happened a few seconds ago.

Recalling my steps: I went down the elevator. Henry was explaining to me how elves work, then we entered the woods to find some food. Henry pointed out some non-poisoning mushrooms for me to eat. I slowly push myself off my back. Then I hear some noise behind me; turning around, thinking it might be some monster that I have run away from... but instead... It was a person.

Sitting on the ground, I look at the girl who yelled at me. 'A person, a real human being on this island, I thought I was saved. finally get the hell off of this place. no that didn't happen.'

She had a very confused look on her.

'She... she did something with that card in her hand, it felt like I just got flashbanged or something when she turned into pure colors.’ After thinking so long about it… ‘It's like a magical girl transformation!’ It makes this whole thing a lot more confusing.

I saw her move her head down her right to see. A talking teddy bear in a sunflower dress?... She looked confused as well.

'When that was done, she... hit me with magic?' I look over to my right, to see Henry on the ground, far away from me. I try to get up but I hear more yelling.

I turn my head to look at her, she points a wand at me before... talking?... I see her mouth moving but I don't understand what she is saying. Complete gibberish. I see the teddy bear talking as well. Now I come to an obvious conclusion: they don't speak English. So I place my hands firmly on the ground while keeping an eye on them, trying not to collapse under the stress. Then, I feel the mushroom and berries spill out of my pocket. Just as I am about to recover them, I realize something: 'Wait. I saw her in normal clothes, then used that card to change... oh no.'

The familiar feeling of fear wraps around my heart and is ready to crush it any second now.

'Oh, oh no, no no no no, oh god no. She's a magical girl and l'm a giant rat... A monster. A monster to a magical girl’s eyes who needs to put me down.' Panic isn't the only thing running in my head.

I try my best to keep calm but the tears are already beating me. My tears are beginning to fall out of fear. 'This- this is it. This is how you die for a second time, Shephard. Not because a monster got you, you die because you thought you were saved.' A cruel joke I can only mentally laugh at.

I look up at the person who is going to end my second life, I wipe my tears away to see her face. Yet she wears a look of regret? No clue. I don't have time to focus on her emotions since I hear even more yelling from far away. Both of them look away from me. Dwarves, actual dwarves running to meet them.

"Psst, Shephard!" I turn my head to Henry, hearing him whisper to me. "Grab me and run for your life while they’re distracted!" No need to tell me twice.

I run as fast as I can, grabbing my mask, and retreat deeper into the woods. I hear a lot of yelling, magic beams fly over my head; few nearly grazing me and while some hitting the trees ahead. I keep on running until I don't hear them any more. I had to catch my breath and take in my surroundings, there was just more of the magic fog, trees, rocks, grass, and the hot weather.

"Shephard." I lift Henry to my face to hear more of what he has to say. "This is bad, not only is there a magical girl on the island but dwarves as well. But why…? Why are they here?" I hear the fear in his voice which only puts me on edge. I look around one more time to gather a sense of where I am... and I see a tree- no. An elf looking at me.

The way flesh and bark meld together with no seams sends a rippling chill through me. It stares at me with those empty eyes. As if I'm nothing but a moment of distraction.

"I think the elves are the reason why those people are here." I start to run away again, hearing an annoyed sigh from Henry, who mumbling under his breath.

"Of course, who else would it be."

Somehow or someway, maybe by fate, but that talking bear is right ahead of me. I stop in my tracks, watching the bear point its hand or claw at me. Speaking in a language I don't understand; if I did understand what she’s saying, I won't listen since I already left. I look behind me to see the bear with a pure bewilderment on their face. 'Was it that shocking for them that I ran away than hear whatever they are saying?' I shake my head and look forward as I run.

"It looks like a 'mascot' is here as well, not a big surprise, but a bigger surprise that you just ran away from her when she was talking." Hearing what Henry just said confuses me.

"Okay, one: that bear is a she?! Two: what do you mean mascot? And three: why are you surprised that I just ran away from her?" As I finish my list of questions, a dwarf jumps out of a tree and tries to grab me! But somehow he over shoots it, misses me and hits the ground hard. It takes me a second to realize what just happened. I take a hard right into tall grass to avoid being ambushed anymore. I slow down and try my best to stay quiet as I blend amongst the foliage.

“You must have wool over your eyes if you couldn't tell.” Henry chuckled creepily. “A mascot or partner acts as a familiar to a magical girl. Their roles are simply to be of aid and keep the magical girls grounded. Guiding them. Though it seems they act like sidekicks, they play a vital role. These mascots also work as some form of PR manager when the public gets too nosey with official BSD operations. Because by the end of the day, these magical girls are still destructive brats with far too much power in their hands. None of these children knows a single thing about charisma, and it shows countless times. Which is why they need a ‘mascot’.”

I'm getting so much information I would have believed useless before.

“Also, running away from that mascot was honestly rude. She was putting all her heart into that speech.” Henry is truly disappointed by my actions. I'm starting to feel the same about myself.

"Well sorry, so far every person I met tried to kill or hurt me. You are the only one who has not done both." I keep my ears open as I slowly move through the tall grass. "And besides, I don't even understand what she was saying."

"...What…? What do you mean by that?" Somehow I can tell that he is turning his head in my arms. As if he is confused about the whole exchange. "You can't understand-"

Henry isn't able to finish his sentence because I feel something touch my back. my head snaps around to see. her. the magical girl. 'Oh no. How did she find me!?' She's trying to speak to me, but like the bear, I don't understand a single word. I unsheath my dagger and point it defensively at her. I see her moving her hands as if gesturing to me to calm down. But due to the fact that she did try to kill me... No way in hell I will.

I take a step back as I keep my eyes on here, making my slow escape from this threat. It doesn't last long before I bump into something heavy. Moments after, I feel the wind knock out of me, and the last thing I see before passing out is the dwarves closing in.

---

"I hope he's ok. Did you at least hold back with that punch?" Marie asks one of the dwarves who just hit the ratfolk with his shoulder. He simply just shrugs his shoulders at her.

"He will be fine, I think. If not, then we can just easily heal him with some potion." The other dwarves bring out some rope and start to tie him up, it isn't long before they get done with it and pick him up.

"MARIE! MARIE!" Marie turns her head to see Daisy calling out for her with Stonebreaker just behind the small bear. They stop in their tracks when they see the captive ratfolk.

"By my beard, you got him!" Stonebreaker laughs as he moves up to the ratman; he notices the dagger on the ground and picks it up. "I thought it would take much longer with how slippery this rat was. How did you find him?" Stonebreaker ask curiously

Marie just stares down at her feet with a bit of guilt. "I just... found him in the tall grass, mumbling to himself."

Daisy gives Marie a confused look and turns her head to look at Stonebreaker "... Wait, didn't someone in the team report about someone living in the mountain for four days?"

He nods his head. "Aye. But I didn't expect something like... this?" Stonebreaker starts to lead his team to move back to the mountain.

Marie just examines at the unconscious ratfolk as the dwarves carry him away... She... doesn't know how to feel about this. She first believes that she is about to meet some evil-doer and Marie is ready to bring out justice. But instead she almost...

Daisy notices the guilt on Marie's face and tries her best to comfort her by hugging the girl’s leg. "It's ok, we didn't know better, but if we ask him why he is living here and other things, then we can have a clue on what happened. I'm starting to believe he isn't much of a threat. Maybe he can forgive us? Also, I do want to ask him about why he ran away when I was giving my speech, which was a bit rude for him." Marie nods her head. But she still recalls the shadow looming over the ratfolk. How much hate and resentment the shadow holds in its eyes as it stares back at her. The memory is still fresh in Marie's mind.

As they follow the dwarves with the ratman in hand, unknown to them... A pair of shadows are trailing behind the group. And one of them picks up the skull mask.

The sounds of many dwarven footsteps echo inside what is once the dining hall of the Snowfall Mountain. Some of them are asking the others if they miss anything important or unusual. While some are just talking about the history of these old halls when it was still in use. But all can't ignore their latest catch. It's going to be a mess.

“You! Clear those stairs!” Stonebreaker orders a burly dwarf. The spiral stairs are blocked for some reason. So the dwarf smashes through the barricades as if it is paper. “If I had to guess, the elves spooked the rat real badly. Which explains the furniture clogging up the steps.” Stonebreaker deduces as he leads the group up the stairs.

“Right, a sound explanation.” Daisy comments.

Soon enough, the group find themselves back at the docks. One dwarf brings a chair and the one holding the ratfolk plops their catch on it. The ratfolk is still out cold despite the rough treatment.

“What now?” One dwarf asks.

“We need to get some answers!” Daisy informs them. “For so long, this island had been uninhabited by neither two factions. But now we have this guy running around. We need to find out if he's an Iron Spears agent.”

Stonebreaker grunts in agreement. “Aye! He could be scouting out the island for strategic points of entry!”

“Or maybe he's just lost?” Marie suggests to them.

“That’s possible!” Daisy takes in Marie's theory. “Still curious why he ran away though.”

“To be fair, I did try to kill him.” The girl mutters to herself.

Stonebreaker walks up to the ratfolk with his flask and pours its content on their captive. Moments after, they stir awake in a panic. The rat’s eyes dart around as they begin to breathe heavily.

“Better behave, rodent. Or I'll have to break more than stone.” Stonebreaker threatens on deaf ears.

Though the rat is in distress, it seems that the dwarf’s words don't reach him.

Daisy marches up and points an accusing finger at their prisoner. “Who do you work for and why are you here on this island!?”

The rat simply stares at her, his expression the same as before. Then he begins to speak, but much to their surprise, it is a language they haven't heard of before. Though, Stonebreaker feels as if he has heard it before. As the mascot tries to decipher the language, Stonebreaker delves deep in his memories to find out why the language sounds so familiar. It isn't one that's common for sure, it isn't even a language spoken by their captive’s kin.

The rat continues to speak, sounding as if he is begging. Then suddenly, Daisy gets an idea.

“Oh, right!” Daisy slaps her forehead. “I can speak ratfolk! I'm sure he will understand his own language!”

But before she can continue on with their interrogation, the entrance to the docks explodes, sending the old massive doors out of the mountain. Deep and menacing music fills the air as two figures stand within the smoke. The music echoes through their bones with its harrowing bass guitar riffs. A cackle erupts as one figure steps forward, revealing themselves to the group.

“Typical Starlight Defenders! Can't even break open a rat!”

A knight of black steel stands before them. The dark blade absorbs all light as he rests it upon his shoulder. His shield bears the symbol of the Iron Spears: a burning crowned skull with crossed spears behind it. The horns of his helm curve like a ram’s. And despite the lack of wind, his crimson cape is flowing in the questionable breeze. Accompanying this black knight is a massive orc.

A perfect specimen with a great muscular build. Shirtless just to show off his years of training. His hands are covered in wraps, which makes his choice of combat evident to all. A stoic expression beneath his orc warmask as he gazes upon the group. This brawler oozes with power, yet they feel a calm tide as if he brings wisdom with his brawn. And just to remind everyone that there's no wind going through the docks as of now, the orc’s ponytail upon his balding head stays static.

The music intensifies as the nameless black knight rests his shield on the ground. “Pathetic! To think we'd find these fools here sneaking around on this supposed forbidden ground!”

“It appears so.” The orc speaks as he eyes the bound ratfolk. It seems the prisoner is confused by their sudden appearance after being caught by Marie's group.

“Rejoice! For today, you weaklings stand against my companion and I! Let my name burn upon the code of your minds! Remember me when I send you to the depths of hell for one day I shall join you down below and slaughter you once more! I am Grim! Magical Knight of the Iron Spears!” As he goes on with his monologue, the intense music hits the climax. “And this is my partner! Grork Rock! Cower before us and wait for your utter demise!”

“I think that's enough, Grim.” Grork informs him as he takes up a battle stance.

Daisy scowls. “So this rat really is an Iron Spears operative! You two are here to rescue him!”

Grim scoffs. “We would never ally ourselves with such a weak rodent!” Grim reveals the skull mask that belongs to the ratfolk in the chair. “In our eyes, you all are trespassing on forbidden grounds. Something both factions are against. And thanks to the pretty girl for unleashing her power, our nearest fort detected her magic which revealed your presence on this island!”

Grork folds his arms together as he stands tall. “Whatever schemes you bunch are planning here, I advise against it. This stunt alone is enough to jump start a war.”

“Listen! This is all a misunderstanding!” Marie steps up to try and clear things out. “We were sent here to investigate the island for a disturbance, called by the elves!”

Grork’s scowl is hidden behind his mask. “You mean that rodent, who is trying to escape?”

All eyes land on the prisoner who is snaking his way to freedom. Sadly, the orc derails his pitiful attempt. The rat looks back at them for a moment then doubles his impression of a fleeing worm. The nearest dwarf is quick to bring the rat back to his seat.

“Woah! I didn't see him!” Grim confesses. “This rodent must be quite the rogue if he's able to hide his presence from me!”

Stonebreaker can't help but agree. ‘I hate to admit it, but this ratfolk is so elusive despite being at our mercy. The moment I look away… it's as if he vanishes from my memory.’

Stonebreaker has no time to think about it. There's a couple of threats in front of them that need his attention.

“So… the reason you all are here is because the rodent made too much noise?” Grim cackles once more. “Such a pathetic mission! It's just one rat! Oh how far the Starlight Defenders have fallen from grace! I always knew it was a rotting carcass. Poorly maintained to the point it is bloating with flies.”

“Let's not be too hasty, Grim.” Grork puts an end to Grim’s monologue. “If the rodent is enough of a reason for the BSD to break the rules, I think it is in our best interest to take them back to Fort Tortuga. All of them.”

Marie is quick to hold her wand defensively. Even the dwarves begin to prepare for the upcoming skirmish as they sense the hostility coming from these two warriors.

As his cape flows with the imaginary wind, Grim arms himself with his weapons. “As always, you are the brains of us both, Grork. Surrender to our might, for you all are now prisoners to our cause! But please, resist so I may show you true power!”

Daisy begins to panic as a storm is brewing within the docks. Two factions, long time rivals, are about to continue their feud. A group of dwarves and a rookie magical girl versus a showboating black knight and a stoic orc. And caught in the middle of it all is our little hero, Shepard.

“The BSD scum is mine, you deal with the short ones.” Grim is the first to make a move. In a blink of an eye, he covers the gap between him and Marie, sword high above his head for a deadly cleave.

Marie raises her wand to block the attack, but she falls right into Grim's trap as he slams his shield into her side. Sending the girl flying through a series of walls and deeper into the mountain.

“Stay out of my way.” Grim warns the dwarves as he strides after Marie with confidence.

The dwarves hesitate for a moment, they know that they are no match for a magical knight. But they still have an opponent to face.

Stonebreaker rallies his team as they stare down the orc. He puts his faith into Marie and hopes that she comes out triumphant. For now, they must battle this warrior who knows the way of the fist. Grork rolls his neck before taking his combat stance. Clenching his fists as he prepares to take on the dwarves alone. And like his partner, the orc is the first to strike.

Meanwhile, Marie recovers from the attack. The girl finds herself in the tunnel hub where a series of mine shafts decorate the walls; which surprises her greatly by how far she has gotten from that shield bash. She pushes herself back up instantly as Grim approaches. “Your magic is potent. But I wonder if you have enough instinct and will to use it.”

He thrusts his blade but Marie is ready for it; casting a barrier to protect herself. “Laser beam!” Her wand shoots out the spell, but the knight is quicker.

Dodging to the side, he swings his blade at Marie. Striking her across the shoulder. He takes pride in her pain and pushes forward. His attacks are precise. He isn't aiming to kill, but to simply weaken her. His abilities surpass hers. She was still a rookie compared to him, and it shows. But Marie is determined to win. She knows her life along with the others are on the line.

“Mage armor!” With a single spell, Grim’s blade bounces off an ethereal armor that now protects Marie. He is nearly blinded by the neon pink light that she now wears.

Taking advantage of this, Marie casts a series of firebolts that strike Grim on his chest plate. Every hit forces him back a step. This barrage of magic is enough to make the knight stagger.

Using this moment of weakness, Marie uses a powerful lighting spell in an attempt to vanquish him in one decisive blow. But Grim raises his hand in time and absorbs the thunderous current which travels through his armor and into the ground. Seeing her plan failed, Marie returns to her previous idea with the barrage of firebolts. But Grim uses his shield to block every single spell as he dashes toward her.

Unlike before, Marie is able to withstand his blade thanks to the mage armor spell. With levitation, she retreats away into the air where he surely cannot follow. But much to Marie's surprise, Grim sprouts a pair of bat-like wings and chases after her.

As the two battle it out, Stonebreaker is having trouble with a single orc. Daisy can only watch behind the ratfolk as Grork makes short work with half of the dwarves within seconds. His Flurry of Blows are powerful. Breaking light armor with only two strikes. It is even a greater feat when he's destroying dwarven forged armor.

Stonebreaker doesn't shy away from the challenge. He holds his hammer tightly as he joins his men to fight the brawler. With his leadership, the dwarves all pounce on the orc with all they have.

When Grork realizes that he cannot block all, he reaches within his soul and takes on a stance. When their weapons finally touch his skin, it all bounces away as if they are fighting a mountain. Stonebreaker scowls at the failure of their combined attack. While they are still distracted, Grork raises his foot and brings it down with all his strength. The stomp shakes the mountain around him, forcing the dwarves to their knees. With this, Grork slams his fist into the closest one, sending the poor dwarf flying.

Daisy screams out her lungs as the dwarf crashes into the two. Though she only suffers a minor damage, she notices that the orc accidentally frees the ratfolk. Seeing that he has control of his legs, the rat makes a run for it.

“Hey, wait!” Daisy runs after him, leaving the dwarves behind.

Grork stares at the two for a moment, but returns his gaze upon Stonebreaker. The only dwarf that stands his ground. “You are a skillful warrior. It's an honor to face you.”

The dwarf merely laughs.

With that, the two lunge at each other. Stonebreaker blocks a punch, but Grork still lands a hit with his other fist. Stonebreaker feels the wind leaving his lungs from the strike. The dwarf lands his own attack, but Grork recovers quickly. It's as if the massive hammer he holds I'd merely a toy to the dwarf. No, that's not it. Grork is merely strong enough to fight through the pain. Stonebreaker can see the pain his hammer causes through Grork's eyes.

Daisy chases the rat, right into the room where Marie and Grim are fighting. The magical girl is casting spells wildly as Grim flies around, dodging everything Marie throws at him. Every now and then, he flies straight at her to deliver one blow. Using a hit and run tactic in order to whittle down her defense. But Marie isn't letting up. She is as determined to win this fight as much as he is. With Daisy off his back, the rat begins to gather his belongings while avoiding the active battle. Like a slippery eel, this rodent is able to dodge any danger and come out of it flawlessly. He makes sure he isn't missing anything as he throws all of his belongings in his bag. But realizes one crucial item that's beyond his grasp. The mask. Currently, it is on Grim's belt which makes retrieving it impossible.

“Freeze!” A beam of cold touch strikes Grim square in the chest, encasing him in ice. But the ice shatters from his strength. No one is able to break free from this spell so easily, there must be a way to keep him still, just enough to expose his weakness to a powerful blow.

“Marie!” Daisy calls out as she pulls something out of her Spacious Pouch. Grim flinches when Daisy joins in all too suddenly. Giving Daisy the opening she needs. Wrenching her arm back, she throws a bottle right at Grim's helmet. The moment the bottle shatters a thick black cloud blinds him.

He uses his wings to clear out the air. Only to feel deep-seated dread as he comes face to face with Marie's wand. A series of magical circles surrounds the weapon and the caster. It's too late, there's no way he can escape. Marie grins triumphantly as she unleashes a powerful blast toward the black knight. He can't scream as the light devours him completely.

Daisy cheers for her partner as she vanquishes her foe.

When the spell finally ends, the knight falls to the ground but catches himself on a single knee. Now he's at Marie's mercy.

“Nice work, Marie! Knock out that idiot so we can go after our objective!”

A soft chuckle escapes Grim's lips. The spell leaves his helmet in ruin, shattering one side which reveals his crimson eyes. “I must confess, I did underestimate you. Believing a worm was merely such. But here I see now. You are my equal.”

“Please, don't get up. I don't want to hurt you any further.” Marie’s words are only a threat, with no hint of compassion.

“Hurt me? My dear!” His laugh bounces off the walls. “You've only excited me! Rarely do I have a chance to stomp on scums like you magical girls! Even rarer to find one that rivals my strength!”

“Enough!” Marie begins to utter the spell, but a fiery wall forces her to fly away.

And to her shock, a small dragon is poking its head from under his arm.

Grim pushes himself back to his feet. “Ah, you've finally met my precious pet, Blaze!” He doesn't have wings, nor is it magic. No, it's the small dragon he's been hiding under his cape. “To tell you the truth! I am no swordsman. I am like you, a user of magic. But mine is far different than yours. For I am a beast tamer!”

He returns his sword to its sheath and raises his free hand after. Blaze crawls out of hiding and perches itself on Grim’s arm.

“You have your wand, I have my beasts!” He proudly says as he and his pet dragon prepare to fight once more with renewed vigor.

As this is happening, the rat is scurrying about the tunnels, trying to hide from the chaos.

Blaze straightens itself on his arm and a series of magical circles appears around it. “Behold, the wrath of Grim! Dragon’s Fire!”

Marie is nearly engulfed in a pillar of flames. The stone ceiling behind her is now magma due to the powerful magic. Not only that, but the fire reaches far into the mountain. It is as if Grim manages to dig into a pocket of lava, which is now slowly flooding the floor.

Daisy can only stare as her blood runs cold. Witnessing such a powerful spell. Marie's earlier spell which is strong enough to break Grim's armor is no match for Dragon Fire. And it seems the knight isn't holding back this time. But Marie isn't quitting so easily. Exhaling and inhaling, she calms her nerves. The young rookie holds onto her wand as she sets her eyes on the knight. Determination now flows through her veins as she sees what is at stake. Though she is facing a powerful foe, she knows she has it in her to come out victorious. Interestingly enough, the moment the dragon comes out of hiding, Grim's cape is no longer flowing with the imaginary wind.

“You idiot!” Grork scolds as he drops Stonebreaker onto the floor. Walking into the room after defeating the dwarves, solidifying his superior prowess. “You have any idea what you've just done!? The Autumn Trees will sense your magic just like how we sensed theirs!”

“If they dare to send more pathetic magical girls, so be it!” Grim answers confidently. “Let them come! I will show them why fear exists!”

Without warning, Grim casts a fireball. Blaze eagerly spits the spell out, directing it at the magical girl. Marie dodges it but not the shockwave of the high tier spell. The explosion is massive, almost enough to bring down the room.

The two battle once more. This time, Marie knows she's fighting someone out of her league. Grork instinctively picks up both Stonebreaker and Daisy, bringing them to one of the tunnels. “That fucking idiot! If he faces her all out like that, then this mountain is going to be flattened thanks to them!”

“What do we do then!?” Daisy asks as she tends to Stonebreaker. Despite the threat of destruction, she still has a duty to fulfill. Even if an enemy is standing next to her.

“There's no point of return! Once Grim uses his full strength, we can't hold him back!”

As they hide, a rat on another tunnel entrance peaks his head out to watch the two magical warriors battle. If it isn't for the fact that this skirmish is destructive and chaotic, the whole scene might have been a beautiful light show. But everyone knows that getting hit by one single spell can kill them.

Grim and Blaze fight with such unity that you can believe that these two act as one. Casting fire spells with such might and power. These two are a force not to be reckoned with. But Marie is proving her worth. Showing them that she can stand amongst the greats. The two warriors battle it out, destroying the room they call a warzone. It is like a dance, exchanging spells as they follow a rhythm trying to beat the other. Marie uses all the spells she remembers. While Grim and Blaze simply release flames hot enough to melt steel within minutes.

“Let's end this!” Grim mimics Blaze’s roar as he aims the dragon toward Marie.

“I won't lose!” Marie proudly claims as she points her wand back at them.

The two begin chanting. Rushing to finish the spell in order to eliminate the other and come out the victor. Grork and Daisy can only watch as magical circles begin to surround both mages. With each ring showing them the amount of power their spells hold. Daisy quickly pulls Stonebreaker deeper into the tunnel but Grork stays to watch. To witness something he hasn't seen before. And that is two powerful spells crashing with each other.

The moment both finishes chanting, the island quakes with both spells colliding with each other. Unleashing their wrath upon the world. The shockwave is strong enough to bring Grork to his knees. He nearly loses himself in the tunnels but his grip on the entrance is enough to keep him from flying away.

Grim and Marie are stuck in a stalemate as their magic fights for dominance. The tunnel hub around them suffers greatly as walls come crumbling down. The ceiling cracking thanks to the might of two mages.

And between it all is Shepard.

He stares at the battle in awe. His lack of self preservation is evident as he watches from a dangerous spot.

Suddenly, the amount of power from both spells begins to warp reality around them. Right at the center of it all, a rift rips open which the two caster doesn't notice. Shepard feels a strange pull as the rift begins to grow. He tries to escape, but it's too much for someone his size. He can't even claw his way out in time as his feet leave the ground. Grim and Marie don't realize it when the rat slips into the rift. The two are too preoccupied to even care.

Grim and Blaze unleashes a mighty roar as Marie pushes them back with her sheer will and determination.

Her magic slowly takes ground as it overpowers Grim’s. And before he knows it, his spell falters. Marie's magic is victorious as Grim’s slips off target and instead shoots into the ceiling. A thick smoke engulfs the whole room. Marie stands as the sole victor of the battle. Though she has some injuries of her own, she holds her head high. Taking pride in the fact she is triumphant in the face of danger.

When the smoke clears, Grim is on both knees, hiding Blaze behind his shield. But the damage the spell has done on his armor is frightening. Some parts are glowing as if it is fresh from the forge. His helmet is no longer on his head, revealing his raven black hair. The large hole shows them the dark grey clouds in the sky. And soon enough, it begins to rain. The water cools the aftermath of the battle, and the raindrop cascades on Grim’s form. Soothing the glowing metal.

“You're quite strong.” Grim grins wildly. A manic look is in his eyes as he glares at the one who is capable enough to bring him to his knees. “You show promise!”

By the sound of his voice, Grim has no more fight in him. But Marie knows better than to underestimate her foe. “In the name of BSD, I demand that you surrender!”

“You think you've won!? You and your gang of shorties have no idea what you're dealing with! When I'm through with you, that rat is as good as ours!”

“You won't win, you evil knight!”

“Yeah!” Daisy returns from her hiding spot with Stonebreaker’s limp form she's dragging. “You won't win against the pure heart of good!”

“Bold claims. Sadly it won't be enough to save that stupid rodent! When I get my hands on him, he's as good as dead!” He cackles.

“What did you say?” Marie can't believe what he just said.

It starts low, but soon his cackle becomes an actual maniacal laughter. One that pierces their souls and sows the seeds of fear. “WHAT MAKES YOU THINK I WANT THAT RAT ALIVE!? SINCE YOU CAN'T MAKE THIS EASY, I WILL-”

“He's gone.”

All eyes land upon Grork’s imposing form. Who then points at a spot that's right at the middle where their spell clashed.

“A rift opened up thanks to your combined power. Not only that, we lost our only lead as well: that skull mask belonging to the rat.” Grork explains to them.

For a moment, the whole room is silent. But then that silence shatters thanks to Grim, Daisy, and Marie. “WHAT!?”

---

I'm running. I can't stop. My heart is still beating as if it is its last. My clothes and bag are absorbing the rain, almost weighing me down with the added weight. My eyes are darting around searching for shelter. I'm lost. This isn't the forest I've come to know, which only fills me with absolute dread. Worst of all, it's too dark to even see far ahead. I'm stumbling in the night, fearing for my own safety. I don't know why I was caught in that fight. I don't even know what those people even wanted from me!

All I know is that my life is in danger.

When that magical girl fought that knight, a massive rift opened up and I got sucked into it. Now I'm here, running.

This rain serves only to make me suffer even more.

“Shepard…” Henry whispers.

I have been holding onto Henry ever since I got him back. My arms wrapping around him as if I'm covering my own infant.

There's no time to stress about it, I need to get out of his rain! It's a damn storm out here and I'm stuck without an umbrella. Plus, my cloak isn't enough to keep the cold away.

Luckily, I see a cabin just ahead. Feeling that my luck is finally turning around, I rush to it as fast as my legs can carry me. An actual cabin. I haven't seen that in… weeks? Or is it a month now? How long have I been alive in this world? Doesn't matter. What does is that I can finally sleep on a proper bed.

When I reach the cabin, the lights are out. No one is answering when I knock on the door. Assuming that there's simply not a single soul within, I test out the knob; much to my surprise, the door is unlocked.

I shuffle inside and spot the fireplace. With haste, the fire lights up and fills the room with warmth. Sitting close to the fire hoping it'll dry my clothes, I take a moment to appreciate flames. It's just so beautiful. I have hardly had the time to even admire it thanks to all the chaos. With all things that just transpired, I'm glad I can sit here and feel the warm embrace of the fire. My stomach growls at me.

Though I feel some guilt, I can't deny my stomach, which is why I'm raiding the kitchen. But then… “Actual food!” I almost cried. The kitchen is well stocked! The bread isn't moldy! So much canned food!

I take my time to grab everything I can carry in my bag, then I gather some food for dinner. I have no time to feel guilty or regret, there's some food I need to eat. Cheese might be stereotypical for a rat to have, but I am about to live like a king just for tonight.

I bring everything back to the fireplace. But my feast doesn't start yet as I notice the door is wide open. And to my horror, a looming shadow is standing outside, watching me. It's tall, and no light reaches it despite the large fire. As if it is the actual void standing there. The rain rages on behind it. Something inside me snapped. This is supposed to be the moment I get some rest. But this thing. This awful thing has to come to ruin things for me.

With a growl, I unsheath my dagger and point it at the figure. “I had fucking enough of this! This week has been nothing but terrible for me! It's like one big prank thrown at me by Loki or something!”

I shout at the shadow who does nothing but stare in silence. I have no idea what it is but this is the last straw.

“Do you have any idea what I went through today? You don't! For the past weeks I've been in this damn world, all I experienced is pain after pain! So back off or I'll gut you like a fucking fish!”

The fire suddenly falters. I drop my blade as the shadowy figure reaches into the room with an arm that seems to be two dimensional, or simply put, a shadow on the floor which contradicts reality. And slowly takes away my only solace within the fireplace. Just as it does its deed, the arm retreats in the blink of an eye with a sharp gasp as if the light harms it as well. It's then that I see dozens upon dozens of pairs of eyes watching me through the doorway and windows.

I quickly drop down and wrap myself with my arms and tail; keeping my eyes on the figure that remains static under the door, as if it is a statue and nothing more.

As I stay close to the dying fire, I meet the glaring eyes that are full of so much hate and malice. All watching me with an unblinking gaze. My only solace is the light, yet the darkness around me is slowly creeping in. I begin to pray for my life as I lose myself to sleep.

I wake up as the fresh new rays of dawn cascades on my face from the open window. I'm on my side, with my back towards the smoldering fire. My hand is still around the dagger since last night. I recall the events vividly. Not just that, but the events that transpired as well before it.

I start to look around the cabin.

The front door where that shadow used to be is closed. Holding my dagger tightly, I begin to check my surroundings. so far it's... normal. I look on the ground to see that my bag is still there, I open it and the food is still there "Good." As I say to myself- and without hesitation, I start eating it like mad. The cheese, the bread, oh god, how much I missed this taste! I'm just glad that the monster last night didn't take it from me. It just feels like it has been years since I've eaten proper food.

I grab one of the canned goods and tug on the pull tab before eating its contents. After I am done, I take my bag and check the kitchen again if I missed anything. I open a cabinet and look like I did miss a few more canned goods, I put away the dagger and start to store the last of the cans into the bag. I look at the shelves and all I see are books... which I can not read or understand. Checking the drawers to find some silverware, so I take a fork, knife, and a spoon just in case, storing it all in my bag.

As I roam around the cabin, I find another waterskin in this place. Quite heavy in my hand, I check it and find clean water within. Not even an odd smell or anything. Which means someone is still living here... 'Shit.' Well that explains why this place isn't covered in dust. Also the fresh food. I slowly make my way to the door, carefully opening it and seeing... nothing. Just the sound of the birds and the wind.

I close the door, and just to make sure, I lock it. Sighing a bit since I have to worry about someone showing up here soon or later. Moving back to the kitchen to check anything else, as well as taking a drink of the waterskin I found. Looking around a bit more, and even checking behind the books if there is something hidden behind it. Nothing.

"Hm... Okay, so the kitchen has been picked clean." As I double check the room, just now I notice there's a staircase "Going to check that." Walking to the staircase and going up, I see three doors. One on the right, another on the left, and one more in the middle. Carefully I make my way to the door on the right, I put my ear to the surface to check if somehow someone is in there... All I hear is silence. I open the door to see... a closet. 'Oh, at least it's not a person.'

I do the same to the left door but instead of being another closet, it is a bathroom. Full of all the essentials needed. Of course it does. 'I am actually far more surprised that there is indoor plumbing in this place.' I check the cabinet, it looks like there are just towels here 'Just my luck.' Then there's the last door. 'Maybe there is something useful.' Doing the same as before, the door opens to reveal a bedroom, not only that but there is a chest at the foot of the bed.

Sure there are some other things in the bedroom but maybe there is something good in that chest that can help me. So I try to open it… emphasis on “try”. Because somehow I miss the big ass lock on it. 'This is just getting annoying.' I can feel my eye twitching right now. 'Guess I’ll check under the bed to see if there is a- oh my god, the key is right there'.

I am in shock, shock!. my luck is never this good, I craw my back under the bed to grab it. moveing back out under the bed, moveing the chest, putting in the key to unlock it and opening it to see...

I... can not believe it, it's a teaspoon and ladle! Even a cool looking spoon as well. A fancy set too. I can see why the owner stored this in such a big chest. Shiny and clean, I can tell that it's been kept in good condition. Taking both in my hands, it somehow feels right in my palms. The intricate design and engravings tells me the value of these

Before I can appreciate them even further, my rat ears pick up the tell tale sign of aggression. There's something rattling down below. My heart races as I realize that I'm no longer alone. The door. Someone or something is at the door. It's the monster, definitely back to finish me off. I see a way out thanks to the golden rays of sunshine pouring through the window which gives me a sense of hope. With the forest ahead as my sanctuary.

Opening the window, then jumping onto the tree branch exiting the cabin and crawling down before escaping this place. As much as I want to check for clothes that can fit me, I would rather not meet with that thing again. I feel a sense of relief as I touch the ground. Noticing that I am not wearing my mask, I quickly put it on while I make a break for the woods.

"I hope no one saw me."

---

Click, click, click, clack, ding. As the sound of the typewriter goes off, as he got done with the paper. The Grandfather Clock chimes, telling him that an hour has passed. Which means it is exactly 10 in the morning. He decides to get up to make another coffee, needing it as a substitute for the lack of sleep. He has been fighting off the sandman since last night. The chair screeches as he pushes away from his desk. He then makes sure his clothes are neat as he rises to his feet before taking his short trip to the kitchen.

The machine rattles and squirts as it begins to brew him a cup. The wonders of modern technology. But he isn't exactly one to like it Black, no, this man prefers to mellow his coffee out with some shots of milk. He prefers strong coffee, but he also likes it with some added flavor. He begins to appreciate the scent of a fresh brew as the milk gives it a golden color. He holds the hot cup tenderly in his palms as he makes his way back to the desk. Just as he is about to sit down, he takes a moment to glance outside. The silent town of Winchester.

It's a peaceful place, which he appreciates greatly due to his line of work. These townsfolk live their lives however they like, taking every step with a nice slow pace. And he lives his. Taking a sip, he enjoys this fantastic view as the sun slowly chases away the shadows as it nears high noon. Sitting back down, he isn't quite ready to go back to his typewriter. Instead, he grabs the newspaper to read about the latest catch.

Still no clue about the thieves who stole batches upon batches of mana crystals? Boy, that's just unfortunate. Celebrity nonsense? Not worth his time. Unless there's a murder. The grand council is donating to the poor? How kind of them, suspiciously kind.

Just as he is about to take another sip, his attention shoots toward the door. A pair of beady eyes is staring back at him as this stranger waits patiently in the shadows.

“Is this about the missing mana crystals?” He turns on a lamp on his desk. “No, Butter would have sent a simple letter.”

He stands up to meet with the stranger. A small axolotl. As pink as a bundle of carnations. She bows to him before approaching. “It is a pleasure to meet you, Sir Winterlock.”

“No need to be so formal, call me Sebastian. Would you like some coffee?”

“No need.” She smiles.

Sebastian takes a moment to look her up and down. Usually, a mascot is always around a magical girl like some accessory or a pet. Following the steps of their partner. Yet, Butter sends one to him. Said mascot managed to break into his home without his knowledge. This only tells him that whatever the Director needs from him, it's serious.

“The BSD is in trouble?” He made a reasonable guess.

“Butter was right about you. You're a feline of great observation.”

His tail flicks to the side. Sebastian Winterlock isn't human, no, his race is merely called catfolk. But he isn't famous for his origins, but his achievements. “It's easy to figure it out seeing as you snuck into my home. Doubt you've left traces of yourself anywhere. Not even outside. Whatever is happening, secrecy is required.”

“I would have believed a person like you would be surrounded by riches and live in a grand mansion. Not some old tower in the middle of nowhere.”

“A matter of preference.” He smiles which shines with great honesty. “I didn't catch your name.”

She bows once more. “I am Cherry, and I come at the behest of the Director.”

He arches his brow. The name and appearance now connect some dots within his mind. He should have known how easily she snuck into his own home without his knowledge. “The shadow of the BSD. To think I was this clueless. Well, to be fair on my part, I've only ever heard about you by name, so forgive me if I haven't recognized you.” His glasses sparkles from the light. “If he sent you, that means whatever the issue is, it needs to be beyond public reach.”

“The Director needs you for a job. We have suspicion that a subject of interest is within our borders. But we can't confirm this. So we commision you to take action and seek them out. Payment shall be generous, I assure you. The BSD has great expectations from you, sir.” There's something more to this. There's an odd light in her eyes. But Sebastian doesn't pursue it.

He takes a sip from his coffee. “For Butter, I shall accept. Is that all?” When he turns to face her, Cherry is no longer in the room. Vanishing without a trace. Not even a peep. As if she didn't exist at all. His keen senses would've heard her if she used the door. No point in thinking about it. There's work to be done.

Just as he is about to finish his cup, his telephone rings. The rotary telephone rattles on his desk with great urgency. He answers the call and is met with a panicking voice. "Hello?! Is this Detective Sebastian Winterlock!?"

This is interesting. "Yes, how may I help you today?"

The panicked voice replies. "My home got robbed by a monster- a... flying skull... thing? I don't know, I just saw it run into the woods. I have no clue on what to do and my friend used to tell me about you! Can you come here?!" Sebastian smiles, knowing that he has something very, very interesting on his hands.

---

"Now it has been... a few hours later I think." I say to myself, I recheck my pack yet again if I somehow missed anything in it: everything is still there. And I then check my surroundings; sure being paranoid is not keeping me calm but I rather keep my eyes out knowing that l'm safe than getting jumped by something when I think i am safe. I sigh heavily. Being alone in the forest is not doing any good for me, for all I know there could be something else in the woods other than the shadow man.

‘And... now I am thinking of all the things that have happened to me. It sounds ridiculous if I try to explain it to someone, like. Yes hello random person, can I tell you the tale of me being isekai to some fae living flesh trees elves that are horrifying to see, and the only reason I know that because my mask talk to me, tell me things I don't know about and the reason why I am still not dead yet? Not only that but I got jumped by a magical girl, a talking bear, dwarves, saw an epic battle of a lifetime, and got teleported here!' I put both of my hands in my face, screaming into my palm.

"All of this sounds so fucking ridiculous! All of this is real! All of this that happened to me is just..." I lay flat on the ground to try to keep my head clear "... At least I got you Henry...." Silence fills the air as I wait for a reply from him. "Henry?... Are you there buddy?" I take off my mask to get a good look at him. "You there dude? Come on, this is not funny dude." I begin to shake my mask in the hopes that it will wake him. "Come. On. Dude! Stop messing with me." After all of that...

Still nothing. Oh no.

"Did- did that shadow man do something to you Henry?" As before, silence fills the air as I wait for a reply from him. "No... no, no, no. Wait no, what if l'm just wrong? Maybe you’re sleeping, yeah? You are just sleeping dude, I’ll let you take a break....he he he." Inspecting the mask one more time before putting it back on.

Now looking at the sky which is getting somewhat dark. I get up from the ground, wondering what to do next. 'Maybe I can go back to the cabin and try to grab something else in there? There's probably clothes that are my size even.' Knowing what to do next, I make the choice to return to the cabin to check it out. Carefully I make my way back through the forest with reluctant steps. Slowly but surely I reach the cabin without a noise. Seeing the building, I begin to approach with the grace of a woodland critter. This forest is eerily silent. So much so that I can hear my own heartbeat.

Sneaking to a nearby window to check inside. 'I don't see anyone I think?' I try to open it... doesn't work. I try the door... same as before. 'Maybe I should go the way when I exit last time?' As I face away from the window, I see something for a split second in the corner of my eye. I look back into the cabin, only to be met with darkness. I take a step back from the window... I think I almost screamed when I saw it.

A tall humanoid figure with feline-like features stands behind the glass. Dressed in a grey trench coat. His dark fur hides his expression well. But those yellow eyes peers deep into my soul. Before I can think of why there is a cat person in this cabin, he opens the window with a silver cane. I already start to run back into the woods, "THIS IS WHAT I GET FOR BEING GREEDY!" I run as fast I can back into the woods.

Run, run, run. I use the trees, bushes, anything else I can just to get that cat person away from me.

Catching my breath as I press myself against a tree, hoping that I managed to escape. The sky is getting darker. Won't be long before night. "I- I think... I lost it- oh come on!" I look over to my right, under a tree, those piercing yellow eyes are looking at me. 'If this was a normal cat, I would be happy to see it and even pet it. But I am looking at a man sized cat, and it's so much nope right now!' As I step back, it takes a step forward. I stop, which it stops as well.

Slightly curious, I step forward... which it steps forward as well. Of course I immediately back off, I don't know why I did that, did I really expect the cat person to back off when I step forward? As I back off, it keeps walking, I stop, but it keep walking... fuck me. I pull out my dagger hoping they stop, which surprisingly works.

"Now!" I say to the cat person. "I know you don't understand what I am saying but can you just... go away? l'm not dealing with this." Which the cat person answers with a confused look on it. He takes one more step and stops. Then it puts the cane under its arm and reaches out a hand for a...hand shake?..... wait. I just now noticed that the cat person is wearing glasses.... How I didn't see that before? But forget that, I am not buying that hand shake. I immediately grab something from my backpack and throw it at them. It bounces harmlessly off their face, hitting the ground, it’s the non-cool looking spoon. I don't bother to see their reaction as I dash deeper into the woods.

I keep running. Knowing that my fate will meet a terrible end if I linger too much in one spot. Doubt that utensil will even hold them long enough.

Now it's night time, the moon is full and I see... light? I keep on running- a town! ‘Holy shit it's a town! But I don't have time, I need to hide somewhere fast!' I run to the town to hopefully escape my pursuer. Maybe even a place to sleep.

---

Sebastian just watches the masked rat run away from him, he doesn't bother to chase after them. He waits in place until he can't see them any more. He retrieves the spoon that the rat threw at him. Inspecting it for any signs or traces of magic but feeling nothing. Doesn't even look out of the ordinary. He looks back at the spot where the mask rat was before it ran off. Seems to be that the creature didn't understand him.

'Maybe it speaks in ratfolk? It's been some time since I heard a ratfolk talk in their native language. I need to check on that.' He pockets the spoon in his coat. 'But something else tells me that was the person that the BSD hired me to find... but why?' Sebastian starts to ponder.

"Why did Cherry go out of her way to get me to do their job to find that person who is just... scared and non-threatening? Usually when I meet a 'villain' they monologue, they boast of how great they are, and much more. Not backing off as if they... know... something that they shouldn't." This makes Sebastian freeze in place of him discovering something more going on. The pieces in his head begins to come together.

"Only reason why the BSD shadow shows up means whatever is going on in their HQ, it's bad, so bad that they get me to do their dirty work. The 'subject of interest is within our borders' as they said, and this masked rat that I never read in any newspaper or documents. Nor have I ever heard anyone talk about a 'flying skull' until that halfling called me... this. This is..." something in Sebastian lit on fire, thrill of excitement. Something unknown, something new, something more going on. Moments like these are a reminder of why he became a detective; why he went out to see the world for all it has and experience the unknown.

Sebastian thought he explored all the mysteries the world has to offer, but it looks like he missed one and it's one people have yet discovered. Now he is wondering what is going on in the HQ of the Starlight Defenders.

---

Chaos at the HQ of the Starlight Defenders; multiple flying mirrors of shrouded people are yelling, arguing, worrying of the repercussions thanks to recent event. Daisy is trying her best to keep a smile on her face, but for Marie. She is hiding her face in her palms out of shame. Daisy pats Marie on her back to make the girl feel better before looking over at Director Butter... He is not doing too well. His paws pressed at both his temples with a shot glass of a strong drink and the bottle within arm's reach.

But the look on his face says that he is ready to drink the whole bottle in one go, and he is just about to do so until one of the shrouded mirror people has enough of this. "ALL OF YOU! BE QUIET!" A loud booming voice bounces off the walls, this causes everyone to immediately go silent. Unlike the other mirrors, this one is the largest of the group. An aura of authority exudes from this mysterious person.

Director Butter sighs in relief because of this, he took a sip of a drink "Thank you." Butter clears his throat and reaches for a folder. "Now, can I recap what happened without anyone yelling this time?" A small number agree but not all of them are happy about it.

At the other end of their world, a group of magical knights sits at the round table: two of them being noticeable are Grim and Grork Rock. Grim has his hand on his head as he waits, his leg is impatiently bouncing. Waiting to see if they are done talking in a 'calm and patient' way. He finds this meeting boring, Grim wishes he has Blaze with him right now. Grork just sighs out of annoyance at how Grim acts when they face the Starlight Defenders, and going all out like that... he is lucky that the Grand Knight is a sensible person or this could get a lot worse than it needs to be.

The collected knights are discussing recent happenings. Of what transpired at the heart of their world. Few simply kept their mouths shut out of choice. Seeing no need to give an opinion without seeing the whole picture.

The Grand Knight raises his hand, silencing the room and catching everyone's attention. As he takes charge, this makes Grim stop bouncing his leg and straightening his back. Unlike the other magical knights who look intimidating enough to put fear in their enemies, the Grand Knight is the opposite of that. Covered from head to toe in silver armor that resembles one from a classic fairy tale knight, but his skills are the complete opposite to his appearance: a man of terrifying feats. Able to withstand the weight of his armor. Mighty is his hand, as he leads them with ferocious strength. He is not the knight in shining armor. No, he is the dragon of the story.

He sits at the center, back facing the fireplace which is decorated with his past victories. The Grand Knight is not one to boast, but he takes pride in his trophies. To remind everyone why he sits on his throne. None can contest and challenge him.

"Now." The Grand Knight speaks, and they listen. None dare to even make a peep, much less a squeak. "We are here to discuss the events that took place at Snowfall Mountain. Who shall go first?"

At the Starlight Defenders headquarters, Butter begins to summarize the events at the mountain.

"This is how it went down as the report stated, correct?" He opens the report written by Daisy to verify. "After you two were teleported by Dr. Bob, you meet up with the dwarves, then Stonebreaker briefs the mission to you, and... this part. Can you tell me how everything when... wrong?"

Daisy holds up a fake smile on her face while Marie still hides behind her hands. "Well you see, that part is... a bit long. When we entered the Snowfall Mountain, Stonebreaker and his men began scouting the place and discovered that someone had been living there."

Marie removes her hands from her face but dares not to look up as she speaks. Regret and shame showing in her downcast eyes, trying her best to keep it all together. "...And I was the one who found the footprints on the dusty floor in that place, and the sound of the elevator in use."

Director Butter raises his eyebrow at this. "Even when Stonebreaker specifically instructed you to first notify him?" Marie just nods her head. Director Butter doesn't push the question further and Marie can feel the flying mirrors looking down at her. "So, after that. Daisy gave you binoculars to see... a-" Director Butter tries to make sense of what he's reading. "A… Ratfolk with an evil shadow?"

Marie nods her head again, she feels Daisy at her side, trying to make her feel safe. The small bear is giving Marie all the support the girl needs as of now.

Director Butter continues reading the report. "Then you drop down, use your transformation and attacked unprovoked because you thought it was an undead?" Silence fills the room.

Right now, the Grand Knight at the round table is finding it hard to believe what he is hearing. Apparently, a BSD magical girl with her mascot and dwarves pursuing a... ratfolk were present when Grim and Grork Rock teleported to investigate the magical spike that appeared on the island. The Grand Knight's bewildered expression would be visible to them if he were not wearing his helmet. But he waits for Grork to finish before he moves on.

“The ratfolk was then captured by one of the dwarves and brought back to the trading post.”

“Anything to add, Grimforge?”

Being addressed by the Grand Knight, Grim strikes a pose. With his chair flying off as he stands. Grork can't help but look away from his partner’s actions. “Yeah! We smoked them! Bringing pride and power, we showed the BSD losers why we shouldn't be messed with! What really surprised me was the greenhorn they sent. The girl was powerful, yes, but truly, she was still fresh off the boat.”

As they listen, the room is eerily quiet.

“The rat seems to be the root of the problem, but like any true magical knight! I set my eyes at the weapons we were made to counter! The magical girl! Chaos reign the battlefield as we dueled to death! Our magic clashed with the strength of storms and typhoons! I lost sight of the rat, and the dwarves. Sure. But my eyes were only focused on the bigger fish! We would've torn that mountain apart! But somehow we both held back our power knowing it'll just-”

Lips smacking and chewing causes Grim to end his report abruptly. Someone is eating with their mouths open and it pisses him off. “Yo what's up?” He feels the greasy surface of chicken leg smearing his armor.

“You bas-” He catches his tongue in time when he meets the culprit face to face. “Captain Pickles!”

A short yet stout goblin, standing only half of Grim’s height. And a muscular body built for combat. With him, he carries a chicken leg that he's currently eating and a sandwich in his other hand. A look of boredom in his eyes as he stares at Grim. As if Grim's tale is worthless compared to the food in his hands. Pickles just walks past grim to meet Grand Knight, his friend.

"So... what in the hell is going on?" Pickles asks as he moves to the Grand Knight’s side. Speaking so casually with the man in charge. "Are you guys going to have a party or something?"

Grand Knight just pats Captain Pickles on the back. "Something interesting actually. Apparently the reason why the BSD operatives took a step on the island was because of a rat... and that Grim was bested by a rookie magical girl in a duel." Pickles nearly chokes on his food from laughing.

Grim had a look of embarrassment and anger upon hearing that.

"NO! I DIDN'T GET MY ASS KICKED BY HER!" Grim claims as he slams the table with his hands. "WE WERE AT A STAND STILL, EVENLY MATCHED! TO THE POINT WE OPENED A RIFT WITH OUR MAGIC!" Pickles gives him a confused look at the mention of a rift. "THEN WE-" Grim is cut as Grork grabs him by the face, silencing the fool.

"Sorry about that. As he said before. Yes, it is true that both of them caused a rift to open due to their magic and ended up allowing the rat to escape." Grork continues while Grim’s protest comes out muffled as he attempts to remove Grork's hand from his face. "After that, both us and BSD operatives decided to retreat to our respective places, knowing that the island would be under investigation from both factions. We would've captured them, but enemy reinforcements were likely on their way."

Then somehow, at the same time, both Director Butter & The Grand Knight are in sync. "Then this raises a question: how did a ratfolk end up on the island?"

Everyone falls silent, as though they are all in the same room, and they start to wonder: How did a ratfolk end up there? The island itself is inaccessible by air or sea. Not even through earth. And one doesn't simply cross the gap without anyone noticing. This rat is a bug in the system, one that shouldn't exist. Yet somehow, some way. It manages to elude both sides. Everyone cannot even grasp the idea of such a thing. An airtight seal that somehow has a hole.

Marie is the first one to raise a theory at the HQ of the Starlight Defenders. "Do.. do you think it is working for someone? Since it's very obvious that it doesn't work for the Iron Spears?" The flying mirrors begin to whisper to each other, Marie and Daisy can barely hear their hush and secretive discussion about... someone. About a king that has been missing for years, that he may have returned... Marie is curious about what they are saying but she doesn't want to interrupt them. After a moment goes by, Director Butter speaks up.

"Okay, so I think that covers everything." He says, fixing his tie. "You two may go now, I need to do some paperwork on this."

Daisy gets up, her brows furrowing as she expresses mild annoyance at this. "Why? We can just go now? But what about that ratfolk? We need to find them quick, or just some kind of trace."

Butter doesn't even glance at her as he returns the paper into the folder. "Because one: I need to conduct some private matters that do not concern you both. And two: we already have someone looking into that. So like I said before, you two can go now." Marie gets up from her chair and Daisy follows her out of the room. The bear gives Butter one last look before exiting, a hint of both concern and suspicion in her eyes.

All the flying mirrors start to disappear, all returning to their own business. Yet they know this is merely a short pause as this meeting has yet to end. The mirrors vanish... Except one: the largest mirror that brought order to the chaos earlier. The shroud that hides the person behind the looking glass begins to fade away to reveal an elf.

Like all the other elves of these lands, she is a hideous mix of flesh and bark. Black eyes, like the emptiness of a night sky devoid of stars. Although she looks beyond human, she exudes elegance and tranquility. As if she is more than a creature of the forest.

"Yes, Miss Maple?" Butter sets aside the paperwork and addresses the elf.

"A request.” In contrast to most of her kind, she speaks the common tongue. The way her eyes bore into him like a lifeless doll should disturb Butter, but he feels at ease. “I wish for Marie to work with another magical girl."

This takes Butter by surprise "Really?... after all of... that?"

"Yes." She answers without hesitation. "Because she matched the power of a magical knight who might as well be considered a veteran. Opening a portal with their combined strength. A rookie. Did. That. If this was like any other mess, she would be fired on the spot... But something like this has never happened before." Maple takes a step closer to the mirror, the glee in her eyes is as clear as day. "And I do not want to waste this opportunity we have right now."

Director Butter nods his head and pulls out a pencil. "Which magical girl are you thinking that can help her?"

The round table is quiet. Captain Pickles has already finished eating his food and decides to break the ice. "We should go grab that rat." All eyes land on him.

"Why, my friend?" The Grand Knight asks curiously.

"Well duh! I am pretty sure those BSD dickheads are already looking for that rat as we speak. And there’s a chance that rat is working for HIM! Why else does that rat somehow show up in that place?"

Everyone is taking in Pickles’ words, leaving them speechless as they ponder about the situation. Even the Grand Knight himself. "Could it... could it be that king somehow survived that fall?" He asks, his hand resting upon the chin of his helm. Of which Pickles replies to him with a look that just says it all. He has no clue.

"Look!" Pickles continues. "With magic involved and being part of everything, anything is possible as far as we know."

Grork Rock tries his best to hide the fear on his face, everyone in the Iron Spears heard stories of how much of a tactical genius that king was. To the point that he became the right hand of the Emperor of the Iron Spears himself. An influential figure that rose from nothing. To think that he could be back can only spell disaster for everything. Grork Rock glances over to see how Grim is doin- wait... Where is he?!

Grork shoots up from his seat, looking around the room. His action doesn't go unnoticed as all eyes land on the orc, questioning his sudden change of demeanor. "Where is Grim?" Grork brings up the fact that they're missing one knight. The room takes notice that there's indeed no sign of him. Somehow they didn't notice his departure. But Grork is first to notice that there is a skeleton butler in the room, leisurely cleaning a vase. "You." Grork interacts with the skeleton. The undead bows to him as the butler is addressed to by a superior rank. "Have you seen where Grim went?" The butler nods his head before a bony hand pulls out a folded paper from its pocket and hands it to him.

Grork opens it and sees a crude drawing of Grim holding up a peace sign with texts saying 'brb, going to grab the rat to win victory for us - from the great and Mighty Grimforge, the Unstoppable Hero of the Iron Spears.'

At this very moment, Grork Rock feels his blood pressure begin to rise.

There’s fire in the air, ashes fill my lungs and I can't hold in my cough as I struggle to run through this world of flames. I'm in a burning forest, a raging inferno that just consumes all indiscriminately. Despite the fire drowning out all sounds with its horrid howls of destruction and crackling wood, I hear something behind me. I can hear them following me through this chaos. I courageously glance over my shoulder to find out what it is... it's… It's that shadow monster, cloaked in darkness so devoid of light, that not even the fire is enough to unshroud it. It's walking toward me, and the moment I set my eyes on it, I freeze. My legs are stiff as if they are stone. Helpless, I try to look away from it, but no matter where I look, it's always within my vision.

"Shephard." It calls me, it knows my name, I notice the fire is closing on us. Bit by bit the flames grow closer. I try even harder to move, to escape, but I can't. "Shephard…" It's now in front of me, wrapping its hands around my neck, I can't breathe. The monster lifts me off the ground, forcing me to look at it. There is nothing to look at but it feels like eyes of pure hate are glaring right at me. Why does it hate me, what did I do?

I try to hit it but my arms feel like spaghetti. I try to bite, but all I can do is pathetically chomp at the air. Claw it, kick it, yell at it, something- anything try to get it off of me. Then a horde of hands burst out of its non-existent body, each one taking a hold on my body as it begins to tear me apart, I can only scream I become undone with such excruciating pain.

"WAKE UP!" My eyes shoot open as I swing my arounds around, attacking at nothing but straws of hay. I look around in a panic as I try to figure out where I am, it takes me a minute to calm down and figure out my surroundings. I'm in a barn... right. Now I remember; I saw a farm and decided this barn was a good place to sleep. I get up from the pile of hay that I call my bed and dust off any straws on me and… man, it's hot as hell in here.

"Look who's up." I glance to my left to find my belongings in a neat pile. And meeting my gaze is the boney mask that I know all too well. "So... how was your beauty sleep, friend?" Henry asks. I stand there dumbfounded before I slowly make my way to the mask. "Um? Shephard? Are you ok-" I cut him off as I pull the mask into an embrace, holding him closely, not daring to let go. Silence is the only thing in the room. I didn't want to say a word. I'm just too afraid.

I don't know how long I was hugging him before Henry decided to break the ice. "Bad dream?" My mouth is clamped shut but I nod as a yes.

"So," I finally speak after the moment of silence just so I can bombard him with questions. "What happened to you? You stopped talking when that shadow monster showed up? Why did you leave me alone?" I hear a sigh coming from him. "It's a long story but let's talk about that later. I want to know this, why are you in a barn?"

Oh boy.

I place down Henry on one of the hay bales and begin to explain what happened when he was 'asleep'. From me stealing food, finding these cool silverware, getting out of the cabin, and going back to the cabin to get one more thing. Then running into a cat person, and running away from him. As I talk about what happened yesterday, I notice that Henry is interested in the cat person.

"Hm... Shephard, he sounds dangerous. If I were you, you should start making a back-up plan."

I arch my eyebrow in confusion. "I'm all for it, but why?"

I realize that I should not take this lightly after Henry gives me a serious look. "Because that particular person who you met is intelligent and dangerous, known as Sebastian Winterlock. A detective that has not lost a case in his line of work. Since he saw you, you better somehow find a way to make him forget about you."

Paralyzed. That's what it felt like. I... I have no words for this. I just put him down by a hay bale, and I begin to stare blankly at the wooded wall of the barn.

I just stare at the wall, trying to figure out what the hell am I supposed to do now. I frustratingly run my hands on my face, trying to think of something, anything!

A minute passes as I face Henry with my answer. "I got nothing." Henry gives me a look of disappointment, which is a feat considering he's just a skull. "What?" I scowl, my brows furrowing together. "WHAT?! Don't give that look, what am I supposed to do? I got thrown into the deep end without warning and now I'm in the middle of something, which I need to add that cat detective guy to worry about also... Why is he here exactly?" I wonder.

"Because. After their stunt back in the mountain, the BSD are too busy trying to cover the mistake. The best choice of action would be to hire the country's best detective to track you down." Henry just rolls his eyes at me as if it was obvious. I raise one of my fingers to argue back but I immediately put it down.

"Oh yeah... shit." It is the truth, all my efforts only leave me in situations like this. I kick the hay out of frustration.

I make my way back to Henry. "So what happens now?" I ask him, and I hear him mumble under his breath.

"Well... since killing him will make things worse, and trying to pay him off won't do anything, also talking won't work since for some reason you don't understand anyone but me which we need to talk about later." As he continues on with his mumbling, an idea hits me.

"Hey Henry. I actually got an idea." His attention falls on me. "What if, get this, what if I just hide in plain sight?" Henry looks at me like I'm some idiot. "Come on, think about it. So far they only saw me wearing the skull mask and covered in a green cloak. If I just discard those two things, I will be safe." Somehow, I can see that metaphorical brow of his rising. "Dude, think about it. I met that cat detective guy yesterday, yesterday! Those magical girl teams or whatever is a mess for sure right now. Enough to send someone to get me that fast, which means that they didn't give him a lot of details about me." Now I can see the gears moving in Henry's head. He finally sees what I'm trying to sell.

"That... that is not actually a bad idea." Henry smiles at my moment of brilliance, I walk over to my backpack, storing my cloak inside after stripping it off me. "But still..." Henry speaks up. "The language barrier. We need to do something about it. Can you explain why you can't understand anyone?" My head turns to look at him.

'Do I... do I tell him the truth? Would he believe me if I did? Would he think I am lying if I did tell him?' I rub the back of my head thinking if I should tell him or not. 'No, not right now.' I rise to my feet before walking over to Henry to retrieve him. "It's. It's a very long story. But I do know sign language, so if anyone does talk to me, I will use that."

Henry just gives me a look of bewilderment. "Why do you know Sign Language, Shephard?"

I cough awkwardly into my fist. He seems to be curious about my past even more.

"That one is also a very long story about that one. So lets-" I hear the barn door open. I dive into the hay as I hear someone walk in. Two people are talking about something, and as expected, their language is beyond my understanding. I carefully keep the noise as low as possible so I won't be caught. As quickly as they enter, they thankfully leave. I get up from my hiding spot to check if they are actually gone; yep they are. A close call, and it won't be the last.

"You should get out of here." Henry advises me.

"Yeah, I should." I answer back. Putting him in my backpack, I start to move my way to a ladder and start climbing down. Once I'm at the floor of the barn, I check one more time to see if anyone is somehow still here. Nothing. Good. Walking to the barn door, I open it quietly as best as I can. From afar, I see the likely owners of this farm, and they are... sheep people?... huh, cool.

I keep an eye on them as I leave the barn, just in case they see me. They don't but you gotta be sure. Moving away from the door and going to the back of the barn, there I see the fence. I make a silent dash and climb over it. With that done, I begin the long walk to town.

The journey isn't exactly memorable, all I can see on the road are trees and squirrels. My stomach ties itself into a knot when I recall my first interactions with them. So here's hoping that these critters aren't as barbaric as the ones I met. Something else I notice is that the road is made of asphalt, a clue telling me how modern this world really is. That is all that happened.

Reaching the edge of town, I'm hit with a strange feeling in my bones. Weeks since I first got here, and I'm finally coming back to society. I visualize myself among them, imagining my own first impression. Preparing the words in my head the moment I can finally speak with another person. Well, speak with my hands, but still speaking. I feel excited. My palms are sweating, feeling a bit of dread crawling up on me as I start thinking about the ways it'll end badly. Shaking off the fear, I begin to approach the town with all my courage.

The town looks like home. A wave of nostalgia and hope crashes over me. It feels warm. The weeks I spent in that forest now seem like years. I just can't believe that I'm finally here. First thing I notice as I walk into town is the banner hanging above the streets. Neatly decorated and written in words I can't understand. All kinds of people are roaming the streets with smiles and laughter. People, actual people. And not ones that are trying to kill me. I'm almost overwhelmed by the sight, to the point of crying even. But I keep my composure and take my first few steps among society.

This town seems to be celebrating some kind of Halloween festival, considering how many children are in costumes. But strangely enough, there seems to be a running theme going on. All are dressed in black with six red eyes. I might have thought it was some dark blob monster, but a few kids are in some fancy clothes looking like an aristocrat. Wait, I don't think all them are children; there's one guy who looks like me.

But still, there's a theme. And I don't know if I should try and figure it out.

As I wander through the streets, I bump into a wall of colors. A mesmerizing collection of colors. Takes me a moment to even realize that a person is staring back at me. Turns out, these colors belong to a short bird-like person. A peacock in an expensive looking blue tuxedo. He has a strange glint in his eyes as he looks at me up and down. But it soon vanished, and instead, a soft smile forms on his lips. Somewhat welcoming one as well. At first, I was worried, but now I feel a little at ease.

He speaks to me, but as expected, I have no clue what he's saying. Words come out, and it's all gibberish to me. Not a lick of English at all.

Now is finally the time to see if I can actually communicate with this world.

With my hands high above my chest, I begin to “speak”. “Hello. I'm not from around here.”

The bird is taken aback by my hand signs. Did he understand me? Doesn't look like it. I begin to sweat thinking that this plan isn't going to work. But then a miracle happens. “Forgive me, I didn't know that you are deaf. I'm sorry if it sounds rude.” He understands me! Best of all, he knows sign language as well! His hands, though looking like a cartoonish hand belonging to a cartoonish bird, moves fluidly and similarly as mine.

I can't believe it, my plan actually worked.

I quickly begin to answer his questions. “No, I am mute. But I also don't know your language since no one taught me.” An excuse I hope goes through.

Luckily, he has genuine empathy written on his face. He nods as if he understands my situation. “I understand. So you're not from around here?”

“No, it's a long story.”

“Well, welcome to Winchester. Your timing is quite impressive since it is the start of the Fall of the King Festival.”

Oh, that's what this is all about. Really explains the theme. looking at the costumes now, I can see the attempt at looking like a king. A very, blobbish king. Do they not have a clue what he even looks like? “I'm guessing this king isn't exactly well liked?”

He chuckles strangely. “Heaven's no. He was a dangerous foe from ages long past. He once ruled these lands with an iron fist but thanks to the efforts of the founders of Autumn Trees, we finally live happily.”

What's the point in dressing up like him then? Honestly, that explanation only confuses me more.

“Come, friend. Let's celebrate together and I shall show you around.” Before I can even decline, the peacock takes my hand and begins to lead me away.

The avian takes me to a food stand with all kinds of sweets and pastries on display. I watch him speak with the vendor and pointing at some of the goods. My eyes then widen as he produces a silver card from his pockets. The item shines under the light of the morning sun, nearly blinding me. The vendor happily reaches out with an actual credit card swiper, showing me once again how far this society is with their technology. It is then I realize how this guy I'm with is absolutely loaded! A bird of riches. I should've known from how he dresses. Heck, the way he moves should've told me. He seems to be the flamboyant type as well.

I watch as the peacock confidently swipes his card and then receives a paper bag of… I have no idea.

“Strawberry Turnovers?” He kindly offers some to me. He even knows how to do sign language with one hand. This guy probably has more talents than I first thought.

Happily, and a bit too eagerly, I take one. It's been ages since I had a treat like this. And it's quite evident when I scarf it all down in one bite. Didn't have the patience to even enjoy it. Luckily, this peacock is generous enough to offer me some more.

“You must be really hungry. As expected from a vagrant such as you.”

Funny how we speak to each other without even saying a single word. That last comment is a little strange though.

“Oh, where are my manners? I am Sir Whimsy Gem Featherlock.”

I finish my second pastry and instantly answer. “Shephard J. Hillstone. It's nice to meet you.”

---

Featherlock leads Shephard around, showing the newcomer what the town has to offer. Especially on this day, the Fall of the King Festival. Originally, he had planned to simply spend some time waiting for his friend. But now he takes on the role of a tour guide for this wayward soul. His expectations for the day aren't much, but then he meets Shephard. Something about him caught Featherlock’s eye, he just can't put a finger on it.

Either way, he doesn't have to mindlessly wander around.

The peculiar person really appreciates the pastry Featherlock bought for him. Shephard is really consuming it like it's his last. Somewhat amusing. As if he is watching a child who has just discovered candy for the first time.

Featherlock shows Shephard around town, taking him to some stands with arts and crafts being sold. But it seems nothing catches both their eyes, so they simply move on.

“You should really see the Ocean Cave, it is quite awe inspiring, dear.” Featherlock speaks as he communicates with his hands. “Oh, also there's this nice place Renge and I always visit whenever we are in town. The food from there is truly to die for. Not that I expect you to know. But that is why I am here, to help change your point of view.”

“Hey, Mr. Featherlock!” A large and pudgy man approaches them. “Didn't know you'd be back for the festival, I would've prepared some premium steak for you! Who's your friend?”

“No need for that, good sir. As for my companion? This is Shephard, he's new in town if you didn't know. Poor thing, he is too far home and can't understand a thing we say.”

“Fish out of water?”

“There's some silver lining, I say. Our good rat here understands sign language. And lucky for him, I was here to keep him out of unnecessary trouble.”

“You truly are a saint, Mr. Featherlock. Will I be seeing you and Renge tonight?”

“Can't simply forget our favorite place in town, Gabriel. And do prepare some fine aged wine. A bottle of Elven Moon would be lovely.”

He then takes Shephard's hand and begins to lead him away.

“Come along, good friend, there's still some sights to see.”

The two share some goodbyes before Featherlock continues the tour. Shephard, throughout the conversation, was utterly confused. He couldn't understand them both at all, which is expected. All he did was stare at them both like a dead fish. No one can really blame him.

Showing him around town proves to be somewhat difficult due to the language barrier. Still, Featherlock can see the joy in Shephard’s eyes. As if the rat hasn't been to a nice town like Winchester in ages. Featherlock is curious about his past, so perhaps Shephard will enlighten him one day. Unless this meeting is merely a one off chance.

“Feeling charitable today, Whimsy?” He comes to a halt when another person approaches the two.

This time it's a young blonde woman wearing a beautiful and expensive dress fitting for nobles. She carries with her an aura of pride and power, as if she is one that rules above all.

“Mingling with the riff raffs? I had thought you to be more. Thought that you were smart about who you surround yourself with as well.”

Featherlock smiles despite the comments. “Darling dear, we aren't cold hearted. Besides, the poor soul is lost. Is it not our responsibility to lead such wayward souls?”

“Grow too lazy, and there might be a day you lose your head. Ohohoho!” She laughs obnoxiously. By now, Shephard is looking at the two as if he is witnessing the impossible. He even froze up when the woman laughed. “Whimsy, what have you gotten yourself into? We aren't babysitters.”

He clicks his tongue as he shakes his head at her. “Renge, dear, let us not be blinded by our pride. Can't you see within yourself to show some compassion?” He begins to speak to Shephard with sign language. “Shephard, darling, this is Renge, my good friend.”

Shephard is quick to introduce himself, so much so that if you didn't have a quick eye, then you might have missed it.

The young woman now known as Renge can only stare at the rat. She grimaces as she scans him up and down, noticing every little flaw. “Has he even showered? And I don't know sign language.”

“We can do some lessons next time. But I can simply translate for you. For now, let us enjoy the festival!”

---

I just can't believe what I'm seeing, it's just something I thought I can only see in fiction. But right there, right here. An actual anime character. She's just the spitting image of your typical rich girl rival in some show. She even has the damn hairstyle; spiral twin tails! When she laughed, I nearly had a brain aneurysm. It was just so sudden. Now I'm following the two around, and it's a picture that just seems wrong. Here I am in what might as well be rags, among two rich people that can probably buy out the whole town.

Heck, every time Whimsy pulls out that card of his it feels like a hit in the face. It's just so shiny and junk, that I can't believe I'm being treated so well by these two. Although, I can tell that Renge seems to dislike me a little. The way she talks with that look on her face whenever she addresses me. Still, it seems like Whimsy is doing everything he can to put me in a good light.

We come to a stop, just a few feet away from a crowd. I try to see over the people to find out what's all the commotion. So damn short, I can't even beat the humans. A shame that I had to be this way. But if I had to guess, there's a parade. Music is playing, the crowd is cheering as they stand by the streets. All of it points to a parade. I manage to see through the wall of people to confirm that there is indeed a parade, complete with floats and costumes.

There's a silly smile on my face. I just can't stop it. I feel so nostalgic as I watch this little event. It feels like back to normal. Like I'm with my family and friends, just enjoying the moment.

I feel a tap on my shoulder, it's Whimsy. “Are you alright?” He questions.

I didn't notice that there's a single tear rolling down my cheek. I quickly wipe it off and straighten myself. “Sorry, I just like parades.” A little excuse.

“It's a wonderful parade, that's true.” He smiles as he tries to watch. But we're both short, and only I got a good spot where I can see through a small gap. Pretty hilarious.

Renge says something, but it seems to be a good thing seeing as Whimsy smiles and answers happily. The girl is lucky that she's tall.

For a long while, the three of us just watched the parade. The floats are amazing, ranging from ships to dragons. But all seems to follow the same theme of having the king on top. I still wonder who that is, and if they're monumental in this world’s history.

Something catches my attention. Behind us is an unattended electronic store. One of the things that attracted me is a familiar looking radio with a golden fish for a logo.

Suddenly it screeches. A familiar tune I know all too well. Just a blink of an eye, a flash of fire consumes everything around me. I can feel my skin falling off my bones as that horrible noise deafens me.

I gasp, grasping my chest. My eyes snap shut, keeping the images out. It's not real, I know it isn't.

Slowly, I open my eyes to find things the way they are. No fire. No chaos. Nothing.

It takes me a bit before I compose myself, my hands are still shaking from that sudden flash of nightmare.

Glancing over to Whimsy and Renge, I notice that the two are too preoccupied with the parade.

Looking back at the radio, something is compelling me to approach it. It's an ordinary device, nothing much to say. Resembling the ones back home, I instantly know exactly how to operate it. I take a look over my shoulder in case anyone catches me before swiping the radio away. After finding myself a nice secluded corner, I begin to tinker with it.

“It's not turning on.” I mutter to myself. Henry audibly coughs in my bag for a moment. I completely forgot about him. “Oh, you need some air, dude?” I wonder if skulls do need air to live.

“No, I just woke up. Anything to share?”

“Later. I'm trying to get this radio to turn on.” I flip it around and open the panel. “Oh, it doesn't have batteries.”

I hear someone clear their throat. At first I thought I got caught by the store owner. But no, it is just Whimsy and Renge, which is far worse.

“What are you doing, Shephard?” He asks me while Renge stares down at me.

I nervously give him an answer. Literally caught with my hand in the cookie jar here. “I, um… wanted to listen to music?” My hands are shaking as I give out my answer.

“By wrongfully taking what's not yours?”

Chuckling awkwardly. “Yeah?”

When I expect him to scold me, he just laughs? “Ohohoho! Well, good luck with that. There's no mana crystals in that, like many devices.”

What the hell is a mana crystal? Also, did he really have to translate his laugh into sign language?

“...Fuck…” I hear Henry mutter inside my bag.

Worst of all in this situation of mine, Whimsy even used sign language for his laugh.

“Poor soul, cannot afford such trivial items, so much so that he needs to steal.”

Renge makes a comment, but as usual, I can't understand her. Most likely an insult.

“Do not fret, my poverty ridden friend, I shall grant you your desire and buy it for you. No strings attached.”

I can't believe it. All I can do is smile and chuckle. It's a little awkward, but I can't say no to some free stuff.

He takes me back to the store and we wait for the owner to come back. Still, I am honestly grateful that I met such a kind man. He has been so generous with me that I will be eternally grateful. As the three of us wait, I can not help but wonder what else this town has to offer me. Though I am somewhat suffering beneath the seams, it is nice to feel normal after all this time.

I'm still shaking. But I'm feeling better now.

It's nice to be normal for once.

---

As the parade goes on, a cat man known as Sebastian Winterlock watches from a food stand. His coat over his shoulder, with a cup of lemonade in hand, and a corndog in the other. Observing the crowd... It reminds him of his old days when he was a novice detective. Eyeing every person he sees with utter suspicion, wondering if they were guilty or not. Seeing the world in black and white, ignoring the grey. He laughs at his young and foolish self. How things have changed.

"So, how have things been, Sebastian?" Sebastian looks over to the vendor, Parker, an old friend of his. The man has a strange accent; he speaks quick and loud but clear. As if he doesn't have the time to talk at all. If you have bad hearing, you might even miss a couple of words.

He gives the human a warm smile. "Not much, got called in for an investigation for a Halfling. His home was broken into by some hooligan, not much else I found." He lies at the last part, he knows who broke in, it is obvious that ratfolk did. Still, he wonders what he did to be put on the BSD radar. But what?... Or maybe he's wrong? It's not his first time that he jumped the shark and was horribly wrong about something. So Sebastian is going to play it safe but keep some betting chips on the theory that it is the ratfolk.

Parker looks surprised by the news of it. "Oh my! I thought this cozy peaceful little town of ours would be safe?... So what did this bandit take?" Sebastian watches Parker lean over his food stand, as if the human is ready to hear a plot hook to get him interested in. Sebastian has to push him back so the man doesn't fall over his own food stand.

"Not much, the ‘bandit’ only took some goods with them." Parker looks disappointed. "But! The bandit did take some valuable silverware as well." Just like that, the human is interested once again.

"What kind of valuable silverware? Silver mixed with gold? Does it have gems or diamonds in it? A family heirloom passed down which was taken by our crook?"

Sebastian just pats Parker on the head. “No, no. None of that; my client wants it back because they got a really good deal for the silverware for cheap and they are not happy that it was taken away from them before they can use it."

And Parker is back being disappointed again. "Well, isn't that rather disappointing? So what, this bandit just took some food and cheap knick knacks?"

Sebastian just nods his head. "That's one way to put it, not everything has to be exciting, Parker." Sebastian finishes his drink and snack before handing the trash to Parker. "Thanks for the service, friend." Parker just rolls his eyes at him as Sebastian walks away.

Sebastian does some exploring here and there, saying “hi” to familiar faces at the parade. As he looks around, he notices someone far more noteworthy... a mascot and his charge. Miss Renge the Blue Rose and Mr. Whimsy Gem Featherlock talking to a ratfolk… could it be? No, it looks like Featherlock and the ratfolk are communicating in sign language, so they must know each other. So Sebastian chooses to go and greet them.

As I approach them, the first to notice is the ratfolk who he immediately ducks behind Featherlock. The duo turn their heads to look where their friend is looking, and are surprised to see Sebastian. "Ho ho ho! If it isn't the famous detective! How have you been?" Featherlock said while Sign Language as well.

Sebastian raises an eyebrow with a curious look on his face "Hello there Mr. Featherlock and Miss Blue Rose, how's your day been so far?"

Renge just sighs out of boredom. "It's been nice, I was checking on some things until Featherlock found this riff raff... this-" Blue Rose is holding back her laughter. "This poor rat who can't even buy a radio!" She goes full on laughing at how ridiculous that is, like a bad joke that somehow ends up being funny. Featherlock rolls his eyes at her before turning his head to look at Sebastian.

"A wonderful day it is, detective Sebastian, for right now I am helping out this boy who bumped into me." Talking and moving his hands at the same time so the mysterious stranger isn't left out. Sebastian looks at this person who is still hidden behind Featherlock like a frightened child. "Also, let's not beat around the bush, but our new face here isn't deaf, he simply knows only one form of communication between us."

Ah so that's why. Sebastian nods his head, completely understanding the misfortune of this ratfolk’s situation. The detective begins to think to himself, trying to make sense of things. 'I do know sign language, maybe he is the same ratfolk I saw last night, if so. They both share the same height and width. Though it's hard to tell the shape of a person since the one last night was wearing a baggy cloak. Much more, I'm unsure if it was a mask or an actual undead. This might simply be a coincidence, and not exactly uncommon, but two strangers from out of town showed up. It's not a good idea to flat out question his whereabouts last night, it's better to sit back and just watch.' Then Sebastian begins to communicate with the poor frightened rat. "Hello there, my name is Sebastian Winterlock. What's your name?" He says as he reaches out for a hand shake at the ratfolk, the ratfolk look at Sebastian's hand as if it is a trap. He slowly lifts his hand to shake it, after that is done, he signs his name.

"Shephard."

Sebastian smiles at him and signs back to him. "Well Shephard, I hope you like the festival of my little town here. This is a historical event we do every year, celebrating the fall of a tyrant. Have you tried the carnival games yet?"

Shephard shakes his head no.

"We should do that next!" Featherlock delicately speaks up, grabbing Shephard by the hand with a surprised look on his face. Sebastian watches Featherlock and Shephard walk away, with the former having a big grin while the latter seems confused by the sudden change. Sebastian sees Blue Rose just sigh in annoyance before following the two short people after. Sebastian, who is still doubting the identity of Shephard,follows them as well.

Shephard just watches Featherlock and Shephard with Blue Rose from a short distance. Sebastian keeps a close eye on how Shephard acts... Noticeably, and shockingly, the way he acts is almost like a kid. His eyes are full of joy from trying out the carnival games, and winning a ring toss game which Featherlock didn't do very well at. Wins at the balloon darts game and is rewarded with a teddy bear, which at that point, it turns into a competitive game of who can win the most.

Surprisingly, Featherlock is the victor of the challenge after winning most of the games. But the look on Shephard’s face shows that he didn't care about that. He is just happy to be with someone, as if he has been starved of company for years. Shephard turns his head to look at Blue Rose who is sporting a new look with a butterfly painted on her face. Accompanying that face is an expression that promises a painful punishment if anyone asks about the butterfly.

And like any other day, all fun comes to an end. And it is thanks to one loud ring coming from Featherlock's pocket. The mascot quickly draws his phone and answers. For a moment he is silent as he listens to the other end of the call. And with a look of disappointment, he pockets his device and meets the rest. “We will have to put a rain check on our visit to Gabriel's restaurant, the BSD wants us, Renge, first thing in the morning. Something important that we'd need our best clothes for the meeting.”

“Oh joy.” She growls unladylike, as her expression sours a bit, leading the butterfly on her face to look crushed. “I was honestly prepared to spend tomorrow in a nice spa. But we cannot go against our superiors.”

“It appears that this must be farewell, detective.” Featherlock shakes Sebastian's hand one last time. “A shame that we cannot stay longer.”

“What of our lost friend?” He asks. Shephard seems to be confused about the sudden shift in the mood. It's then that they realize that they haven't been using sign language to translate themselves.

Featherlock brightens up as an idea hits him like thunder. He then goes and “speaks” with Shephard, but making sure that Blue Rose can hear his idea. “Shephard, would you like to come with us? The city might be overwhelming for someone in your current situation, but I know that it will be quite the opportunity to have your new beginnings at Sunnyfalls. It'll be fine, I am willing to help you along the way.”

Blue Rose scowls even further. “You can't be serious? Why take him with us?”

“Renge, dear, I just feel generous. And what have I taught you? To always help those in need! And our friend here is in dire need of our help!” She is about to argue, but instead, holds her tongue. She can't argue at all. They are the symbols of heroism, justice, and peace. To shun someone like Shephard is to go against the core of the BSD. With that in mind, Renge concedes. “Brilliant!” Featherlock grabs Shephard's hand. “So, my friend, have you decided?”

There's a short second as Shephard weighs in his options. And it seems like he doesn't have much. So with a bright and wide smile, he nods excitedly.

Both the short people cheer under the setting sun. Shame that they have to leave so soon, Sebastian would have shown them more of the festival, especially the next few events the town has planned for tonight. A shame indeed. Sebastian takes in everything he can gather about Shephard and sees no danger. He's more like a child and nothing else. The detective can only shake his head at his own folly, believing someone so innocent to be a danger to everyone.

He decides to escort the three to the train station, it's the least he can do for the Blue Rose and her companion. The trip is lovely for sure, with people coming over to Blue Rose for some autographs and pictures. Heck, even Parker comes by and asks. Unsurprisingly, Parker’s personality seems to scare and confuse Shephard. Parker does that to a lot of people, especially strangers who visit their town for the first time.

Sebastian watches as the three board the train, being welcomed by a dwarf due to Blue Rose’s status. The detective bows to them as they wave goodbye.

He sighs as the train begins to leave the station. The sun is already beyond the horizon, painting the sky itself orange that slowly fades to blue, heralding the coming darkness of the night sky. It's been a busy day for sure, and it's about time Sebastian goes home. He still has work, and he can't disappoint.

But his thoughts are interrupted as he hears Parker screams out his lungs. Unconsciously, Sebastian bolts into action and dashes toward his friend to help. “Parker! What's going on!?”

The human grabs Sebastian and pulls him closely. “You need to see this!” Parker raises his digital camera and reveals his source of unease.

Sebastian gasps. He feels his blood run cold as he stares at the screen. His hands twitch as dread settles in. I grab the device and begin to cycle through the recent pictures. Parker didn't even complain knowing that I needed to see it all. I ignore the ones that don't relate to the current situation and focus on what matters. Every single one. It's just… terrible. All of it connects to one person, and one person only.

Shephard.

He isn't exactly in the pictures, that's much to say. No. In his place, in every picture, is a grotesque creature of sorts.

Human? Maybe. It's hard to tell.

In every picture, standing in Shephard's place is a corpse, skin looks like it is melting off him. His exposed bones are charred, as his face is locked in an eternal look of pain. Sebastian can't help but feel that those empty sockets that should have been where his eyes are, are glaring at the detective as if he is the cause of its pain. The corpse is screaming. And the scream seems to echo in Sebastian's head. A victim of fire. A walking nightmare in disguise.

There's something more about Shephard, and Sebastian knows that he needs to track the rat down. Just when he thought it was over, Sebastian was reeled back in. And with a shaky hand, the detective pockets the camera without a word and marches off. Parker tries to complain, but he is met by a sharp glare from the detective which silences Parker. Sebastian's suspicions about Shephard grow like a blazing fire. And there's no sign of stopping. This no longer feels like a moment of goodbye. No. The train down the tracks is housing something sinister, and he needs to deal with the problem before it blooms.

There's work to be done.

The sounds of the train track is all I hear as I stare out the window, admiring the night sky. It is so beautiful, an awe inspiring full moon, with the stars in the sky looking like gems. The top of the trees rises and falls as the locomotive runs by. A serene view that I didn't get to enjoy when I was alone. This cabin, fancy as it is, is itself head-turning. So amazingly decorated, that I look like a crinkled tissue compared to an actual room on a train. I'm also not alone. Glancing over to my cabin buddies; the living anime girl known as Renge Blue Rose, and the peacock known as Whimsy Gem Featherlock. Which has got to be the most rich person name that I have ever heard in my life.

Both of them are fast asleep on the passenger bed but not me, I am way too excited because... just... Featherlock, this peacock, this hero of a man who wants me to stay at their house in Sunnyfalls city, and knows a guy that can help me get a job. Is doing all of this out of the goodness of his heart?! I have no words, I... I can feel tears building up in my eyes. 'No. Don't cry Shephard, don't cry. If you cry, you might wake them up.' I think to myself. Just breathe in... and out. I look out of the window again.

I am in awe that my bad luck has finally changed for the better, this is the best thing that could ever happen to me. "Shephard?" I know that voice, immediately I grab my backpack right next to me and open it. Henry was right next to the teddy bear I won, a reminder of how much fun I had today. And a trophy I'll forever cherish.

"Hey Henry," I whisper to him, making sure that I don't disturb the other two. "You need something?"

Henry shakes the mask. Or is it himself? I'm not entirely sure. "No, I am here to check on you. Anything new going on?"

“Well…” I just take him out of the backpack so he can get a good look at my saviors. And somehow, I can read that surprised look on his face.

"Those... those two are the ones you've been talking to?" Whispering with so much concern in his voice, it almost scares me.

I raise an eyebrow in confusion, taken by surprise from his reaction. "Yeah. Did you go back to sleep after the radio talk?" Henry looks away from me with embarrassment on his face. Those red eyes might be frightening to others, but it just looks comical to me. A cartoonish expression. "I take that as a yes. Also why did you look so shocked to find out?" His expression shifts to more of a judgmental look. As if he is asking me “Really?” in a very sarcastic way.

"Because you are in a room with a celebrity magic girl and her mascot. I don't know how you manage to become friends with them. Much less earn the mercy of that stubborn girl."

For a moment, I just stare at him blankly.

Then slowly, like a transformation, my jaw drops and my eyes bulge. As if my expression is stuck in a silent scream, as the weight of truth crashes down on me like a piano from above. Complete with the terrible tune of all keys playing as it crushes me. If the two wake up now, the first thing they will see is my greatest attempt at predicting my encounter with Medusa herself.

There is a part of me that should have seen this coming but the other half of me is way too happy to meet someone that actually wants to help me. Yet, if they find out what happened at that mountain... "No." Henry looks at me confused.

"Wha-" I cut him off as I put him closer to my face.

"No!" I look over to the sleepy heads to see if I accidentally wake them up. I didn't, good. I look back at Henry with a serious face, the most serious I've ever been ever since I have taken the form of a bipedal rodent. "No, I won't let them find out that I was the rat that got out. I am going to get away from that mess and start a new life if it is the last thing I do, Henry." Henry is silent from my justified outburst.

"I...see." That is all he says to me before now trying to look away from me, great. Now I feel guilty for yelling at him, the person that has been helping me when I know nothing about this world.

"I'm sorry" I wrap my arms around the mask, embracing it looking for some kind of comfort. Anything to calm me down. "I am just... I just want something normal for once in my life, and I am almost there. A chance to finally be an actual person again."

I hear Henry sighs as he looks at me with his red eyes. "It's been a long day, Shephard, just... go grab something to eat. I am going back to sleep." I nod and return him into my backpack. I check the other two one more time if they are still asleep- yep, still asleep. As quietly as I can, I exit the cabin, making sure the door shuts with just a soft click.

Once I'm in the clear, I begin to scan the hallway. On one end, I notice that dwarven ticket guy, his name is Boiler Irongear if I remember that right. I walk up to him and communicate via sign language to him. "Hello Mr. Irongear, can you take me to the dining car?" Despite being a short person, he is still taller than me.

He is taken aback as if he just now notices me. "Oh! Hey there, Shephard... um." He pulls out a book with a very interesting cover. A very hefty book as well. With “World of Communication” written on the front, which clues me in as to why he has that book in the first place. After flipping through the pages, and a minute to figure it out, he closes the book and faces me. "Ok, follow me to the dining car." Right. I really need to learn the language once I get the chance. But I can only guess that he's going to lead me to the dining car.

I nod my head, following behind, listening to the rattling of the wheels of the train running on the tracks. If I'm being honest, this is actually my first time to be on an actual train. As we enter the dining car, I see more staff members of this train. It seems that they are all off the clock and are just chilling. I think they are playing poker? One of them decides to pipe up. "Hey, Boiler, want to join?" Poker, of course, is a game that transcends reality. Gambling addicts everywhere will always have a place in the world. I can see they have some gold piled up in a pot, it is somewhat alluring to my eyes.

The ticket guy nods. "Sure, but the cook needs to do his job first. We got a hungry tenant over here." One of the staff, the chef I assume from the way they're dressed, stands up and leaves. Boiler then turns to me, a single brow higher than the other.. "You can join them if you want to." I'm not sure what the dwarf just said, but I think he wants me to play as well, or offer a spot on the table. I'm not sure.

Huh... I never played poker before but I can give it a shot.

---

I think lady luck is trying her best to make up for all the horrible things that happen to me, because after the crew teaches me how to play. It takes me a bit to understand thanks to the language barrier but I get the gist of it. The chef comes back with a plate of chicken for me, nothing fancy. A little dry, but it fills my stomach. And so begins my newest experience in my second life. Unsurprisingly, I lose a few times, leading Boiler to laugh like a mad man (or a mad dwarf?) when he gets a full house to win the pot.... Perhaps he is the luckiest of the bunch?

The next round begins, and the card has been dealt.

When Boiler decides to go all in with his gold coins, everyone shows their cards with equally infuriating looks on their faces, knowing that they have lost. As Boiler is about to take another win, I show my hand. The whole dining car goes quiet as they look at my cards with pure and utter shock written on their faces, before everyone starts to lose it. I ask what is going on before they say that I won with a royal flush. I somehow got a royal flush to win. A. ROYAL. FLUSH! Boiler doesn't even look mad, he looks honestly impressed at my sudden change of luck.

They hand me the pot which I won, but I push it back, and use sign language to say that I want to play again. Boiler shakes his head and raises a finger at the window. "Nah, you keep it. And besides, it's about time for us to go back to work." I follow his direction... oh my god is that the sun? How long have I been playing???

One of them puts all the gold coins in a brown sack and gives it to me. It’s heavy as hell in my hands, the weight feels so different from all my belongings. As if the value itself doubles the mass despite maintaining the size. Yet, I feel a sense of comfort. It’s heavy, but now I have money... wait. I have money, money I can buy stuff and not steal things... This has opened a lot of things for me. As I sit there, everyone leaves one by one, returning to their stations despite a whole night of poker. I hear the diner door open and see a few people enter. Two of them being Blue Rose and Featherlock. Despite being the break of dawn, Blue Rose looks as if she has just left hours of make-up session. A diva compared to some dirty rat like me. Not to put myself down, of course.

I wave my hand at them; Blue Rose is too tired to notice or care that I am waving at her, but Featherlock does notice.

"Ah, Shephard, good lad, I was wondering where you went." As he signs to me, I pat the table to get them to sit with me. Before one of them says anything else, I show off the brown sack by dropping it on the table, which makes a loud thud. Reminding me just how heavy it is. Which catches the attention of Blue. "Is... is that a bag of gold you got?" Featherlock translates what she asks, and I reply back in sign saying, telling them of my small little interaction with the train staff.

"Huh, impressive," She says as if it is a confession to her sins.

Featherlock translates it before communicating with me. "You stayed up the whole night playing poker? Aren't you tired at all?" I give him a 'what do you think?' because the urge of falling asleep right here, right now is strong. The signs of fatigue are clear from my eyes alone. But sleep can wait, I want to have my triumphant celebration with some pancakes.

"Do you know how much money you won?" Featherlock asks me which. Um. Yeah. How much did I even win?...

“Meh, don't know. That question is for later- I want pancakes." Featherlock just smiles at me with that. With my intention clear, we wait for the waiter, so I can have breakfast before bed.

So waiting for a bit, the waiter comes by to take our orders, I ask for some orange juice. Featherlock, like a man of business, requests for coffee, and Blue Rose asks for... something. I still don't know what she is saying. But hey, you know what? I should ask one of them to teach me the language of this place. That comes later though, I want some pancakes. Those beautiful stacks of flour, milk, eggs, etcetera.

Featherlock and Blue Rose are talking to each other about something... man, my eyes are getting heavy, maybe I can close them for a bit.

---

"That was embarrassing," I say to myself as the train stops at the station. I can see Blue Rose & Featherlock are still silently laughing at me because I fell asleep and slammed my head on the table shortly after. Even Boiler, from the corner of my eye, is trying his best to hold himself. I give him an annoyed look as I hold my backpack waiting for the train door to open.

Once the door opens, I become awe struck by the scene. A beautiful city that one can only ever see from fiction comes to life. It is a city, man-made structures that reach for the skies, melding together with nature and becoming one. Roots and branches supporting bricks and concrete as if they are in a symbiotic relationship. Forming a new kind of beauty that is impossible from my world. Some structures are even built on mighty trees that tower over most buildings, with branches that seem to act as bridges for everyone to cross on. Of course, modern adaptation has guard rails on these branches to ensure the safety of the people. Some roots are even hollow serving as tunnels for the masses. A harmonious unity of concrete and nature. The early morning sun itself adds so much to the beauty of this city, as if it masks the industrial side of this world, and helps bring in a more natural look.

The roads below are devoid of any roots that will be of hindrance, as if someone has purposely controlled the roots to avoid the road way. The system works amazingly well. Their society has adapted with the titanic trees as if they were born and raised with it. The trams, trains, and even airships. All were part of the world they built. Seamlessly, they move without a hitch, as part of a path that spans for miles. This world is something that fills me with nostalgia, as it reminds me of my past. A memory of what used to be. The bustling streets, the roaring voices, and best of all, the people.

I feel someone tap my shoulder, I turn my head to see Featherlock smiling at me. I somehow lost myself to the scenery and view.

"Come on, follow me." He signs to me, and so I do. Following him, I keep seeing species I only see in fantasy fiction. Gnomes, goblins, halfling, and dwarves.. I did meet some dwarves before but they knocked me out, so they don't count. Some humans and hey, even a cat person, like the one I met at the festival. I shiver as I recall our first encounter, such a chilling moment. It felt like those eyes were staring right through me. Still, this world is populated with all kinds of people. Short, tall, big or small. Every person is like a new surprise for me.

As I keep following, we stop in our tracks, just as I was about to ask why, a carriage right in front of me with guys wearing full plate and carrying swords. The horses are also equipped with armor, which I got to say, it's really cool to see. I see one of them talk to Blue Rose which she reacts with 'really?' look on her face, oh, it shifts to a stoic look. The same knight who was talking to Blue Rose, opens the carriage and gestures to us to get in.

Just as I am about to enter the carriage when one of them stops me in my tracks, saying something to me before Featherlock waves his hand (or wings?) at them and speaks to them. The man relents and allows me to walk by.

And wow I have to say, this is the most fancy-ass carriage I've ever been in, well, to be honest, never been in a carriage before. But I do want to say that this is a really cool experience... But, the mood is a little sour with that serious look still on Blue Rose’s face. I poke Featherlock on his shoulder, he turns his head to look at me with a confused look. "Hey, Blue Rose has a serious look on her face, you should ask her what's wrong?." He looks at me with a puzzled look which tells me that he hasn’t noticed the change, weird.

After pointing it out, he goes over and asks her what's wrong. The two talk back and forth for a moment, and it didn’t take long before Featherlock mimics Rose’s expression... Did... did something happen?

"Um, Featherlock, is everything ok?" I sign to him, he looks away from Blue Rose and back to me.

"Well. Um. I can't say, it is none of your concern, good lad. Simply trouble at the work place, is all." He does his best to reassure me.

But whatever it is, I have a bad feeling in my gut. Like I just ate some bad corn infected with some eldritch horror. Or maybe a killer soup that uses bullets as the main ingredient. All examples express how I feel about those looks on their faces. Bad. It even leaves a terrible taste on my tongue.

I don't know how long they've been talking in their language, but the carriage stops. The both doors open with two of the knights waiting for us to hop out. But now it's Featherlock's turn to poke me on my shoulder. "It's going to be ok, Shephard, Renge and I are... Well, we just have things to do, that's all." He grabs my hand, following him out of the carriage.

As I hop out of the carriage, I nearly trip on myself when I find myself standing right in front of a grand mansion. Three stories high, with a historic look. Something that seemed to have been built in the 1800s or close to it. The surrounding garden gives it a good color. Blue roses. I can’t help but see this as a little vain from Blue Rose, considering her name. Though, it does raise some safety concern from me with how some overgrown stems are wrapping around the walls and pillars. As if the Rose bushes have gone out of control and started growing where they shouldn't. Much worse when they seem to have increased in size. Thinking about it, it almost makes the mansion a giant cactus- well, half way to being one.

Looking around, I come to realize that I must be in the richer side of the city. With mansions as far as I can see. A mix of designs, from standard stone and wood, to something far more exotic. Is that one floating? I just can't believe my eyes. And to think I was ready to see the world with no more surprises.

‘That thing is floating alright. It even got a wizard tower on top. Holy sh-’

I can't even finish my thoughts as Featherlock pushes me into their mansion. So distracted by all the architecture, both classic and strange, I fail to notice how I am just standing there like a deer staring at headlights. Entering their mansion, a butler and a maid are already at the door to greet us.

“Take him to one of our guest rooms, he may be staying with us for an indefinite time.” Says Featherlock.

If only I could understand their language.

Well, I can just take a guess after the maid communicates with me through sign language. So here I am, following an actual maid through this fantastic mansion. The interior design is far more than I could have imagined. Of course, hundreds of portraits of Featherlock and Renge Blue Rose. Or is it Blue Rose Renge? I have no clue which is her surname. Well, other than those two, there are also a man and a woman, who I can only assume are Blue Rose’s parents.

The three do look so much alike. And I can tell that she inherited her grumpy expression from her father. Heck, give him a little more make up and he might end up looking more like his daughter than the mother.

Speaking of Blue Rose, I notice too late that I am alone with the made. Seems like the other two have other business to attend to. So distracted with the portraits and decorations, I became unaware of my own darn surroundings. This simple mistake makes me want to kick myself. Still, whatever is going on worries me a bit.

Something to worry about later. Because the maid brings me into one of the best bedrooms I have ever seen. Far better than something I might see on television. Or some rich guy with a modern art taste. No, this room looks straight out of a fantasy. Well, in the most realistic way. It’s just like any other room, but the decor is just so stylish that I can’t help feeling like an alien on another planet. So pristine and clean. Turquoise sheets over the comfiest looking bed ever on a large oak bed. A beautifully designed bedside table stands next to it, with a lamp crafted out of crystal. The velvet curtains give this room a reddish glow, which somehow compliments the bedsheets well.

I am so short, that the wardrobe towers over me like a titan. Maybe I can even live inside it if I felt like it. Heck, even the dresser is far too big for me. This guest room must be made for normal sized folks.

Snapping out of my trance, appreciating the room and all that, I go give the maid my thanks. Well, her knowing how to communicate with me shouldn’t be a surprise, but I am starting to suspect that these aren’t ordinary servants. In this world, anything can happen. Or maybe I am just over thinking it.

As soon as the maid is gone, I do the one thing anyone in my place would. And that’s jumping straight into bed.

Like crashing into a cloud.

The bed is everything I dream of for the past few weeks I have been in this world. Soft to the touch, and comfy enough to soothe my aching body. At that moment, I feel myself collapse from all the days of running. I just go limp, letting the bed do wonders and embrace me into a warm hug. I never got to sleep during the train ride, so I didn’t get a chance to even appreciate a nice bed like this fantastic thing.

I spend some more time letting my worries fade away until I get serious.

Making sure that I am absolutely alone, and that the windows and door are locked, I go and rifle through my bag for one important thing in my life. Henry. The somewhat realistic skull now rests in my hands, his eyes lighting up as soon as I have it in my hold. Somehow I can feel a small smirk coming from the expressionless mask.

“Hello, Shephard, how are you on this fine day?”

“Glad to hear from you, buddy. Just a heads up- no pun intended, but we are in Blue Rose’s house right now. And boy, it is freaking awesome here!”

His eyes glow intensely at that information. “Is that so? Isn’t that a little dangerous? You might hurt yourself at some point.”

“No, these people are a good bunch, I can tell. SO, how have you been?”

He chuckles at the question. “Do realize I am just a mask. Though, I guess I can say that I had quite a nice dream. I grew legs!”

“I don’t know if I should laugh or cry at that.” I chuckle back. “Didn’t know that you dream. Makes me wonder how far your abilities are. Maybe one day you can do magic.”

“That would be useful! So, what will you do now?”

I stop myself just as I am about to answer. Thinking it through clearly, I began to weigh my options. Some part of me just wants to take things slow and enjoy what I have now. Another wants to go on my own and not be a leech. As harsh as that is, I can’t help but feel guilty. Featherlock is a good man, that’s true. But I just have no way to pay him back for all the trouble. His kindness for someone like me, a nobody, is so outstanding, that I feel the need to repay him somehow. One thing is for sure, I need to find my place in this new world.

“I have plenty of time to think, I’m sure.” I answer. I bring out my cloak, feeling a little nostalgic despite the short time of not wearing it. Putting it on feels like home. The one thing that fits on me better than the mask. “For now, I guess I gotta see what else is in this city. I mean, can’t be cooped up like last time.”

I place Henry back into the bag then push the bag itself under the bed. Not like I’m paranoid or anything, I just need to make sure no one messes with my stuff. Though, I hope I am not dressed strangely. This cloak is just one of my only pieces of clothing, other than my gear.

Peering out the door, I notice the same maid from earlier is standing close by. I walk over to tell her that I’ll be out for a walk. She just nods like a machine. Can’t help but notice how static she looks. Like a statue, another decoration in this mansion. A little bit awkward when I ask her to show me out since I am not familiar with the place. She does not say a single word at all.

After being escorted out of the mansion, I make a mental note of this place so I won’t get lost.

I feel more out of place when I walk down the street. Unlike everything else, I look like a homeless guy. Sure hope no one mistakes me as one. Unless they gave me some “donations”, I can use some cash in hand... but I do have that bag of money I won, which I need to know how much is in it, I need to remember that for later.

Like before, I can see the fantastic architecture of the mansions. Some are crazier than what the common man can think up. Heck, that floating mansion is enough to remind me that this world has a different kind of common sense. Back in my world, magic is just some sleight of hand or one big lie. Maybe a performance for the entertainment of many. Here? It is part of life. Everywhere I look, people use magic like a tool or an extension of themselves.

As I wander around, I notice someone very peculiar. Next to a hotdog stand is another rat!

Something in my chest tightens after seeing them. Someone who looks like me. Or someone I look like. The other way around since I am not entirely a rat man. Ratfolk? I should really learn what I am called as a race. Still, it is a little jarring to see another of my kind. It’s like seeing a ghost, or close to it. Swallowing that lump in my throat, I make the first move and walk over to them. My joints creak as I take step by step. I feel so heavy as I approach. This will be the first experience, so I have to make it good. So much doubt is weighing me down. But I don’t let it stop me.

As I finally reach them, I give the rat a small wave. “H-hello!” I croak out. Thankfully not having my voice break.

He glances at me and smiles. “Well, how are you-” But he stops short as he gets a good look at me. I flinch when his expression turns sour. “You new around here, boy?” He asks as if he is accusing me of some crime.

“Yeah, yes! Very new. My name is Shephard.”

He grunts. “Makes sense, you ain’t speaking common like everyone here.”

“Yeah, I… I don’t know the local language. Thankfully I can speak… rat?” By Joves! I am indeed speaking rat! This is actually great, that means I at least have somewhere to go. “So, I am new around here and need a little help-”

“Hold your horses, boy. Now, I don’t know where you came from, but something ain’t right about you. Not because you’re an outsider, but I can’t help but smell the difference in you.” I freeze up at that. Realizing the way he looks at me like some kind of pariah. “Now, are you here to buy? I don’t want to be around you. No offense.”

“Ah, no. Sorry for bothering you.”

I don’t believe it. That’s how my first experience went? This is just embarrassing and terrible. I can’t believe he just talked to me like that. Just when I wanted to ask them out for some help. Honestly, I wish I didn’t bother. Well, I’m sure that he’s just one jerk among others. I continued my walk down the street away from that hotdog stand, then I saw it.

'The park, I loved parks when I was still human. Something to help me to get my mind off of that bad encounter.' I walk to the park and pass by some people to enter it, and wow, there so many different types of flowers. Some nice trees that really sell the serene look. So peaceful, that I feel like just another piece in a set. Watching folks of all kinds just coming and going, using the park as a shortcut, reminds me so much of home. And like any public park, there are others who have come out for a picnic. With kids playing to their hearts' content.

Finding a nice little spot, a lone tree by the pond of ducklings and fishes, and taking a seat by the edge after a day of walking. I use that moment to think. Just, think. The reflection on the pond is a reminder that I am no longer… me. The face that stares back is the same face I have known since the day I woke up. The new me. The rat behind the mask. I pull away from the pond, finding my back pressing against the lone tree. I choose instead to forget about that reflection of mine, and listen to the world around me. This beautiful place where flowers bloom, and birds singing. Feeling myself drift back to my childhood days, when everything was just so simple. When I didn’t have to fight for my own survival. When I didn’t have to suffer day in and day out. Just, simple.

Remembering how I used to gather flowers to create a crown out of them. A faint memory takes me back to one day when a dog got loose from its owner. And after running wild around the park, it approached me. Tail wagging like crazy, as the dog looked like it wanted to play. Being a kid unsure of a lot of things, I placed the flower crown on the dog. Then announced to everyone that “This dog is now the king of all dogs.” which I am sure that my dad found hilarious enough.

How I miss that. My actual home. My parents. But that’s all memories now. These hands are not my original. And it is high time I start to accept that. All I have left from my past is only a name.

All I can do now is make another crown, all I can do to stave off that bad feeling in my gut. Sadly, I’m just too rusty. I’m not the same kid back then, because now I’m an adult in a new body. In layman’s terms: easier as a kid, now I’m bad at it.

“Well, this sucks.” I mutter. “Maybe I can try something else?”

I lose my concentration as my eyes catch an incoming group, a pretty big one too. I guess there’s some family outing right now. Seeing the children break off from the group to go frolic on the grass, laughing and giggling. While the adults gather on a spot to set up their picnic. And the familiar feeling in my chest coils up, like a damn spring raring to snap. Seeing my own kind, but doubt just drowns out any sense of meeting them. Fearing that it’ll be the same outcome as before.

‘I should leave,’ I think to myself. “Don’t want to bother them. Not like I am related to them, just a random stranger, that’s all.’

I push away from the tree and begin to make my way to the other exit. Only to find another group of rat folks walking in. Then another, and another. Like a well timed joke to make fun of me.

All I can do is go back to my little spot under the tree. Putting up my hood to help hide myself. Huddling on by myself, hoping that no one notices me. Even praying for my green cloak to help me blend in with nature. Watching this crowd interacting with one another. Chatting and joking. There’s a new feeling in my gut. Envy? Maybe that’s the word. I am feeling envious.

They all look so happy. Like one big happy family. Other people that belong with one another. Just the perfect piece in their lives. And all the faces I see are the ones I don’t recognize. Some of the children grow too close while playing tag. Not even noticing me, as they are too caught up with their game. Heck, even an adult walks by like I don’t exist. And telling the kids that there was food ready. Feeling like an outcast, I continue to remain still. Having no one to talk to thanks to something beyond my own control. I am just, utterly different.

I need to get out of this place. I don’t like this damn feeling in my gut. Feeling sick to the point I want to hurl. As natural as I can, I make my way to the exit, hoping that none of them notices. Just as I am about to be free, a voice catches me off guard. They are talking to me.

“Hey, friend, don’t think we met before.” I recognize that voice. The hotdog vendor. “We got a nice little birthday party here, and I’m sure someone like you needs to rest their feet.”

Why is he being nice and friendly now!? Didn’t he tell me to get lost just by asking him for some help!? That feeling in my gut changes. It just keeps swirling and swirling. Changing into something I have never felt like in a long while.

"Hey, you okay there buddy? You been just standing there.” The moment he goes to place a hand on my shoulder, I just snap.

“Hey, pal! You know it’s a bad idea to talk to strangers!?” I snap, both physically and vocally. Snatching his hand with a crushing force. Feeling myself let out my boiling rage that’s been bottling up. Speaking like I’m spitting poison out of my mouth. Glaring daggers at the two-faced rat.

The look on his face is enough to tell me that he recognizes me finally. And something more. Something primal in his eyes. Was it fear? Good. Let it undo him as a whole.

And the moment I let him go, he scrambles away with his tail tucked between his legs. Screaming like a banshee, enough to make everyone’s blood run cold. Of course, all eyes land on him. Even those just outside the park look on with curiosity and concern. He disappears into the crowd, still wailing in fear.

As for me, I just walk back to the mansion, back to someone I can call a friend.

I wrench open the mansion door, with a cocktail of emotions just writhing in me. Anger, loathing, hate. All coiling in my chess like a snake about to pounce. That's how l'm feeling right now and it feels like my whole day is now ruined. Walking by a maid, don't know if she notices me or not, but for right now. I don't care. I open the door of my room and close it right behind me. The lock clicking in gives me a wave of relief. Now finally alone and away from the outside world.

Running my hands on my face to try to rub the exhaustion off my face. Tired and angry is not a good combo. Part of me wants to go to bed, but the other half of me knows that I don't want to sleep during the day, and wake up in the middle of the night. I am in someone else's house after all. A house that is bigger than me, a house that is not... mine. A house... that is owned by a powerful person. A room that I don’t belong in.

"Shit, right. forgot about that" I sigh, rubbing my head, wondering what am I supposed to do next. What can I even do next?

"Shephard." I jump up to the air, turning my head to see Henry. Who is somehow on my bed?! I walk over to him to gently hold him in my hands. Glancing around the room for the culprit, but found absolutely none. I check my backpack if anything is missing, luckily no. Then how the hell?...

"Shephard, are you ok?" He is worried, great. I must look like a zombie or something.

"No," I reply. Just noticing how tired I sound. The word itself feels so heavy, that just saying it fills me with some sense of ease. "l'm not. But how or why are you on my bed, Henry?"

Henry just looks at me, taking in my question.

"What do you mean? I just let myself out." I give him the most flabbergasted look I can to him.

"Wha- what do you mean 'I just let myself out' since when?!"

He just rolls his eyes? At me? "Shephard, there are still a lot of things you don't know about me.”

He’s right. Ever since we first met, I hardly knew him. All I know is that he’s the only one I can turn to in this odd world. And maybe… maybe he can help me out as he always does. He knows better than me. And he can definitely give me the advice I need. So with a reluctant smile, I hold Henry to eye level, and ask.

“Can you help me out with something?” Henry replies back to me with an eyebrow raise. "With what?" He asks. I might just be tired, but I thought I heard a hint of excitement in the tone of his voice.

"I need to hide my stuff away from... them. Everyone. Just in case you know?"

I can feel his head- or mask? -moving my hands, guiding it toward an air vent just above the closet. "Right there," Henry suggests. "It is a good place to hide everything, and me."

Glancing at the air vent then back at him, I have a doubtful look on my face. "Are you sure?" Asking if he was fine with the idea. Dumping him along with my equipment in some dusty vent.

Henry nods as eagerly, then replies back. "I will be fine, Shephard. besides I don't have lungs, remember." I can somehow tell that he’s smiling at me. "But, the real question is, my rodent friend with skiing and muscles: What are you going to do next?" I put him on the bed, grabbing my backpack. Despite the short time being separated from it, this bag feels so heavy and unfamiliar in my hands. I have been lugging this thing around for weeks, yet here I am struggling to hold it.

"Well, first things first. I need to take a shower, get a hair cut, get a suit, and get some coffee. Because it feels like I'm going to pass out right now." My short list comes out of me like a gun going off rapidly. I hardly breathed when I listed off my future plans. Then I hear him laughing as if I told a joke.

"What are you trying to do, Shephard? Trying to impress the ladies?” Since when does he have that strange tone in his voice? It’s almost like he is making fun of me. “Maybe try to get a ratfolk girlfriend?"

As Henry asks me that, I get a flashback to that asshole. That rat at the hotdog stand, him, the look he gave to me as if I was some walking trash that was being taken out?!

"Shephard?" I hear Henry call out my name but I am too deep in my thoughts.

His voice is almost muffled. My ears barely register his words at all. All I wanted was help, why? WHY!? Because he smelled the difference in me!? What the hell does that supposed to mean?! I hold onto my backpack with a death grip. And all those other rats with those smiles on their faces, and family at their side, how damn lucky of them.

I want to break some, hit something, throw something! I hear Henry call out my name again but it might as well be static as I continue on with my rant in my head.

And him... HIM! The way he talked to me, asking if I wanted to join the birthday party as if we were friends, as if he forgot that he looked at me like roadkill. He was lucky I didn't try to kill him on the spot, HE IS LUCKY-

"Shephard!" I finally break out of my ranting, and focus my furious glare right at Henry. "What's going on with you?" He asks with a confused look on his face.

I breathe in and out, finally freeing myself from my own boiling rage. picking him up and looking at him with a focused look.

"Henry, you need to understand. You’re my only friend in this world and I do mean that. Why?" Before Henry can say anything, I continue. "Because when I took a walk, I ran into another... ratfolk you said. He was some hotdog vendor. I walked up to him and asked if he knew anything about this city. You know what he did instead?" Henry gives me a concerned look. "He looked at me as if I was some kind of pariah and told me that he 'smells the difference’ in me. I don't know what he meant by that but I left and walked into a park."

I put Henry back onto the bed and lay down right next to him. And I begin to retell my pitiful story of how much of a nobody I am. Starting from the moment I ruminate about my new life by the pond, right under a lonely tree. Remembering everything before all of this. It was nice. That is until more of my kind showed up. All of which were gathering for an unexpected celebration. Seeing how everyone was so happy, it made me both jealous and envious. Families gathering to celebrate together. Children were all just having fun, while the older ones mingled and chatted.

Something inside me just kept boiling. They belonged with one another, and there I was, just simmering in my own hatred. They were so close to me, but never had I ever felt so distant from anyone. It felt like I was staring through a window while I stood alone in the dark. Worse of all, they hardly looked at me. Like I was barely there.

So I did the only logical thing to do. And left. But then someone else caught up with me before I could even make it out. I tell Henry all of this. And now I looked my friend right in the eyes. My story leading up to the moment that damn hotdog vendor showed up again, who didn’t even recognize me at all. “You know what I did, when that jerk put his hand on my shoulder?”

He says nothing back. Not even making a wild guess. Instead, Henry listens to me, watching me like I’m talking about a soap opera.

“I snapped at him. My hand darted out faster than I expected and wrapped around his wrist.” Like a snake coiling around its prey. I can still feel his skin and bones being squeezed against each other. Reminding me how fragile some people can be under the wrong pressure. “He had the fucking gall, to invite me to their party. As if he forgot what he did to me.” What did he do? He just spoke the truth. That deep down, I’m not one of them. “I scared him off with just one look. He screamed like he finally knew why he didn’t like me. Like he understood everything. And ran.”

I need to calm down. I need to hold myself back. This isn’t me.

“I’m… I’m afraid that they will all be the same. I don’t want to feel that feeling again.”

Henry laughs. My eyes land on that skull on the bed. Something in me just screeches to a stop when he just starts laughing. My eyes narrow at him, trying to figure out what game he’s playing. But before I can even demand an explanation, he tilts his head. Somehow. He was always a strange one. Right when he first started talking to me. And I haven’t yet found out how.

“Shephard, Shephard my good friend.” He sounds different. More confident. As if he has no worries in this world. Makes sense seeing as he is a large rat skull that perfectly fits around my head. “All is not lost to you. For there shall be plenty of chances to redeem yourself. To find a neat little hole among the populace. And I am here to guide you, my lost sailor, drifting upon the stars without a compass.”

“You can?” I can barely say, being too stunned to even question further.

“Why yes, for you are different from most. In a way, I can see great potential in you. All I require… is your utmost obedience.” He’s grinning. By now, I can tell his “facial” expressions by the way he angles himself.

This was a strange request. I don’t know why he wanted that specifically. But what can I even do, and who can I even trust? So without another second wasted, I give Henry a short nod.

A deep chuckle rumbles deep in him. His eyes bore me like a knife through the chest. I half expected him to lunge forward. But by the end of the day, he’s just some skull that can talk.

“These rodents, fascinating and many, are quite simpler than one can believe. Some might see them as shortsighted, as they mostly keep to themselves. For me? I believe these rats build quite a strong bond. A community that follows strict social etiquette. Codes they must live by. No matter your upbringing.”

I keep my attention solely on him. The world around me becomes nothing but a blur.

“You may believe that you have no chance or room among their little world, but I will tell you now that you are mistaken. My good friend, hear me, listen to my whispers. You approached your first encounter entirely wrong. Where was your pride? Your courage? These are your KIN! Your new family! You must face them head on. This is your new war, and war requires your maximum effort. Fool. When you met that pathetic peasant, you hesitated. Weakness worn like a medal. Hear me, Shephard. Do not shrink in the face of an adversary, for it is important to stand your ground and prove yourself to these rodents.”

“But-”

“HEAR ME!” I go absolutely quiet before I can even ask a question. His eyes look like they are burning with hungering malice. A sense of fury coating his voice as he speaks. “You see, my lost sailor, the hearts of these rodents can easily be convinced. All it takes is true confidence. Something you seem to lack. But worry not, for I shall bring about a new dawn, a new you. No longer shackled by your fears. As free as the soaring bird, tasting the skies on its beak, and wings embracing the warmth of the sun.”

I have to say, he’s very convincing. A little theatrical, but his every word seems to strike deep in me. Setting something ablaze, which grows into a fire of inspiration.

“All you have to do… is attend their little parties.”

“Wait, that’s it? Is it that simple?” I just can’t believe it.

“Like many, they’re social creatures. But the bonds they make in these gatherings are stronger than iron. Not only will you have a chance to prove yourself in social gathering, you will have more chances in games and other sports. Do not hide, let yourself be known. Let them see who you are. It is truly that simple.”

“No, it just can’t be that easy. Can it?”

“Doubt. Seeding itself in the crevice of your mind. The roots snaking itself around your consciousness. It coils and binds. Do not allow it to control you.” He warned. “For weeks, you’ve only run like a coward. Faced against terrors beyond your imagination. No more. Stand, stand, Shephard!” He demands of me. “Will you continue to act like a frightened rat? Or will you finally brave the roaring ocean of fate!?”

He’s right. I’m taken aback by his words alone. Time and time again, I ran. The moment I woke up in this damn world, I did the only thing that came to mind. Survive. But now, Henry is offering me a chance to do something more. To finally bring me home. For so long, I have been fighting for my life. Facing twist after twist. Just when I thought I had figured things out, another bullshit just pops its head out and ruins everything. Not this time.

I hold Henry and raise him over my head. And like a ceremony, I lower the skull onto my face. The mask enveloping me like a new face.

Closing my eyes as I feel the weight upon me. Nothing but darkness. A deep and distorted laugh echoes around me. As he speaks, it’s as if there are others. “Hear me.” He says once more, but closer to a whisper. “With my guidance, you will witness a brand new world. Reborn. You are the captain of your ship; master the waves, conquer the winds, and see to it that you live through the storms that dare try to sink you.”

With a small smile on my face, I give Henry a short nod. Then I open my eyes. Everything comes back to me, and now I find myself back in the guest room. I am not alone, Henry will always have my back.

“And, maybe I can help your lonely heart? There are fair maidens among the rodents, I must say.”

The skull mask finds itself far from my face, as I recoil with embarrassment. “Henry!” Hissing out his name. “Come on, dude, that’s a subject for another day.”

I hear him quietly laughing at my embarrassment, this going to be a long day.

---

The train comes to a stop, entering the station with its piercing screech. The passengers follow the flow and depart. Among these roaring crowds is the one and only, Sebastian Winterlock. His sharp feline eyes glancing over the populace as he mimics their step. Like a shadow fading by the colors. He makes a final check of his belongings. More specifically his suitcase and silver cane. The latter being his most precious belonging. He prepares himself today, for one goal only.

To solve the mystery of Shephard.

Of course, he was indeed still concerned with a couple of cases, but this is the only lead he has for now.

Sebastian has been shooting off theory after theory. Trying to figure out the answer, which proves difficult without any clues or evidence. Is he a demon? A metaphorical wolf in sheep’s clothing? A specter locked in limbo and forced to live among the living? A mere monster? If only it is that simple. The picture remains in his pocket. A reminder that he has more things to see from this world. Still, so many questions, and barely any answers. All he knows is that the answers will help his case assigned to him by the BSD. The black cat takes a moment to push his spectacles back in place. Before bringing out his pocket watch from his coat.

The hands on the watch tell him that it is already high noon.

With a snap, the pocket watch closes. ‘As far as I know, Cherry, the shadow of the BSD, hired me to find their subject of interest. Who is within the borders of this great land, and possibly residing in this beautiful city. ‘Now, let’s sift through all the evidence we have gathered.’ He thinks to himself. First is the fact that Shephard comes in with only sign language being his form of communication. And for whatever reason, he broke into another client’s home and stole some valuables. And food, of course. ‘Then… the most confusing part: the way he acts. He is recluse, barely answering questions he sent his way. Focusing more on the entertainment of yesterday’s festival.’ Sebastian cups his chin. ‘As if leisure was far more important than hiding.’

The detective is stumped. He is facing something beyond his understanding as of now, something unknown. New even. Something to remind him of the reasons he became a detective. To experience new things.

His mind wanders back to the pictures. The faces once again flashing in front of him. A visage of nightmares reserved only for your dreams. Yet it was brought out thanks to modern technology. Captured by a simple camera, and showing the world Shephard’s other face. ‘What did you do to garner the attention of the BSD, and its shadow? They wouldn’t have wasted such precious resources on me if it were a simple task. So what crimes do you have under your belt, Shephard?’

The detective continues his walk through the city. Wondering whether or not to share his theory and evidence with the Blue Rose.

“No.” He mutters. “She will likely won’t believe it off the bat. And if I approach this in the wrong way, Shephard might give me the slip. One mistake, and he will catch on with my presence.” His grip around his cane tightens. The handle beneath his hand groans under pressure. As he walks down the streets, he spots an ice cream parlor. ‘I can figure out the story first. And some sweets will certainly help soothe the mind.’

The bell rings as he enters. Striding into the building with a confident step. The first thing he notices as he walks in is the pack of ratfolks occupying every table and corner of the room. It appears that he will have to have his ice cream to go. His approach to the counter stutters a bit, as his sharp eyes lands upon a lonely ratfolk who is sulking in his corner. He appears to be upset, Sebastian notes. This person stands out greatly among the crowd. While everyone here is enjoying what appears to be a birthday party, this rat is just there brooding. Though, the look on his face tells the detective that this person is a witness to something. Something beyond understanding.

Sebastian contemplates whether or not he should investigate. Then his sharp ears pick up something that attracts his full attention.

"That face, I can't stop thinking of that face. I don't- I don't understand why that guy had a human face." Sebastian’s eyes snap wide open when he hears that, it is just a hush whisper but Sebastian is close enough. The detective discreetly checks his surroundings for unwanted attention. Luckily, Sebastian is the only one who pays attention to this lonely rat. All of them seem to be in an entirely different world from this man. This is possibly the lead he’s been looking for. He just needs to know.

Weaving through the crowd, he approaches the recluse like a silent specter gliding through the room. His hand stretches out, offering a kind introduction. “Detective Sebastian Winterlock, at your service.” He introduces himself before the ratfolk can even say a word. His eyes light up like a blazing star from the name alone.

“No way, THE Winterlock? Here!?” Of course he takes the chance to shake the hand of a famous person such as Sebastian. “It is an honor to meet you, sir. I’m just shocked that I even met you, but also surprised to see a man of your stature here. So I gotta ask, what got you snooping around here?”

Sebastian can see the curiosity burning in his eyes. Gone is the melancholy gloom, only a starstruck look replacing its place.

“Just here to enjoy some ice cream, like anyone else.” Sebastian gives him an honest smile. But then his lips flatten into a line. “Though, I am curious about something you said. A rat with a human face? Sounds like the stuff of nightmares.”

Just like that, the ratfolk’s expression returns to that dreadful expression. He quickly looks away, suddenly finding the corner of the room fascinating. “It’s nothing…”

The detective would press for an answer, but he knows better than to do so. He can tell that whatever is bothering this rat is slowly eating him. He just needs to give him a little bait to bite on then. “Very well, I suppose my talents are ill fitted for your troubles.” He gives him a curt bow and spin on a heel. He counts down as he takes every step, starting from 3. And as he predicted, there’s a small tug on his coat, preventing him from leaving.

Sebastian just can’t help but smirk. Now it is his turn to look at the rat. “I… I want to talk about it.” And the detective just nods.

One thing led to another, Sebastian finds himself at the same table, both having their own bowls of ice cream. Sebastian’s choice was a tasty banana split; chocolate in the middle with strawberry and vanilla between it. Chocolate syrup coating each flavor like a snowcap of a mountain, only darker. Sprinkles, whip cream and peanuts, with red cherry on top of the middle scoop. As for the strange rat across the table, he got himself just a bowl of plain old vanilla. And he seems more interested with the wooden spoon that comes with it. Sebastian watches him nervously gnaw at the provided tool.

So begins his little tale. Bob, a common hotdog vendor, reveals to Sebastian about his run in with a strange ratfolk. It ended in a sour tone, he admits. But at first he didn’t care or mind. Their culture mostly revolves around earned respect, and this was a stranger to him. Now, his story leads up to when Bob was invited to a birthday party. But somehow finding himself with another encounter, a far terrifying one. Once he learns all he needs, Sebastian pieces together his findings. Sebastian believes Bob did this himself. He understands that their culture and society works differently than most, but this in turn makes Shephard an outcast. There’s one way to treat a stranger, but this is not it.

Of course, Sebastian won’t say it to Bob’s face.

But there are still gaps in the story that don't help the detective.

“You say you noticed someone under a tree? Yet you approached?”

“Thought they were just another guest. Didn’t recognize them at all. And you know how we ratfolk are, we know each other. My friend’s friend is my friend, all that jazz. So I just had to introduce myself. Make connections and junk.” He shuddered. His hand snaps to his other hand, the one that… thing grabbed. The feeling of pain is still fresh, as if he just escaped the jaws of a wrathful beast. He can’t stop himself from shaking like a leaf.

“What did he look like, the rat with the human face?” Sebastian asks in a whisper.

Bob hesitates. The wooden spoon snaps under his bite. “I… I can’t describe it. No, really, I can’t. I want to try, the damn face is always there when I blink. But I just don’t have the words for it.”

“You described his voice to be… hollow? Empty? Can you explain further?”

“When he spoke, there’s no weight to it. But you can just taste the hatred. When he snapped at me, it felt like he drove a dagger through my chest.”

“Did this face look dead?”

“Yeah? Actually, that’s one word for it. But also alive at the same time. Something in between, that’s for sure.”

“Did anyone else see?”

He looks away. “No. It’s as if they didn’t see him. No, they really didn’t or notice him. Like a damn ghost.” An overstatement, Sebastian believes. Sebastian of course knows that there’s a stealthy aspect with Shephard. Shepherd is able to blend into a crowd with ease, or disappear in his surroundings. “I tried to tell them. Ask them. But everyone just brushes me off.”

“I think I’ve taken enough of your time. Thank you for all the information. But I do believe that you should go and rest for today.”

A moment of silence before Bob sighs. “You’re right. This whole day has been stressful. Thanks for listening to me. And I hope you figure things out about that… thing.”

“It is my duty.” Sebastian reassures him.

He watches Bob depart, leaving his bowl of vanilla ice cream behind. His state of mind is far worse than Sebastian thought. Still rattled and scared. He can only hope that Bob forgets his encounter and recovers. He himself finishes his order. The banana split fills him up with enough energy to take on the day. And quite the treat it is, enough for Sebastian to make note of this place in case he comes back. Now, back to the case.

Once he’s done with his treat, Sebastian begins his work.

He darts around the room, mingling with the crowd, and a few fans. They are quite the entertaining group of people. He can’t help but take note of a few of them, especially with the interesting careers they have. A well knit connection, forming the foundation of their community. Making sure that nothing can break them apart. Families, friends, and something more. Sebastian can see through their pretty little lies, as he knows better than to trust anyone’s word. People have skeletons in their closet, and he’s the kind of man to drag it out. But that’s a case for another time. For now, he’s curious as to what they have to say about their little Bob.

Of course, some are vague, not wanting to share too much. Others are honest. While there’s a few who don't help him in any way.

“Bob? Yeah, something spooked the guy, no clue what.”

“Something about a strange rat? Didn’t see anyone in green, that’s for sure.”

“Marry me.”

“You a cop? Whatever, all I know is that he has a wild imagination.”

“A ratfolk with a human face. Next he’s gonna tell me the damn king is back.”

“My son thought a rock was talking to him once. I’m sure whatever bothered Bob will just be a distant memory.”

These testimonies didn’t provide him anything. He’s still in the dark. Sebastian needs to figure out the whole picture before it is too late. Can’t just act without a proper foothold. To strike blindly is to be stricken back by the shadow of doubt. He will not fall prey to the jaws of mistakes.

“Actually, yeah. There was a stranger there. But he didn’t belong.”

“Yes,” Sebastian pinched the bridge of his nose. The kid standing in front of Sebastian looks upon him with an innocent glimmer in their eyes. At least someone noticed Shephard. “I understand how easily your kind ostracizes outsiders of your kind.”

“No, like, really!” They stand on the tip of their toes. “He smells human.”

“He what.” The claim floors Sebastian. His jaw snaps open in shock.

“Really weird, all humans smell the same, but he smelled different, He smelled funny.”

Sebastian flips his notes to a fresh clean page. His pencil is ready to burn across to write down every word. “Explain.”

“If you focus on it, and have a good nose, you can totally smell everyone. I can smell elves easy!”

“And this stranger?”

“Weird, really weird. I don’t know why.” The kid then fiddles with their thumbs as they recall something. “Oh, there was also that weird shadow.”

Sebastian nearly snapped his pencil. “The shadow?”

The kid nods their head rapidly, to the point Sebastian expects it to fall off. “YEAH! The sun was here, so my shadow was there, but his was over there. Really freaky. Like, didn’t match at all.”

“Thank you, I think I have what I need.” He pockets his notes before walking to the exit. Right after he rewards the child a coin for their time.

No one pays him attention as he walks by, despite towering over them all. He stands out quite literally, and yet he is merely a phantom. One moment, he was talking to them casually. The next, he was gone. Doubt they even notice at all. He welcomes the open air as he exits the store. A newfound inspiration motivating Sebastian to seek out the throat of this snake he calls a mystery. Whatever Shephard is, there’s something far beneath the layers. And it is up to him to bring out the answer, by force if needed. The BSD will have their rat, but only after Sebastian finishes this case.

Weeks go by after the incident in Snowfall Mountain, after the meeting among the BSD and its supporters. The room, a fairly large gymnasium. Plenty of room for all kinds of sports. Gathering in this room is a select number of BSD agents. Starting with the rookie Marie and her partner Daisy, to known names such as Renge Louise Garnier, and the ever gentle Whimsy Gem Featherlock. Few notable characters linger, each with a reputation they are proud of.

Daisy watches Renge personally training Marie in the art of magic. Sharing her wisdom and experience with the rookie. And the little bear knows that Marie needs all the help she can find. She is just happy that Director Butter gave Daisy and Marie a second chance. Not only that, but allowing Renge to train Marie. Daisy is honestly surprised by this, as Renge is a known legend among the magical girls and in her generation. Talented in every way, and setting an example for her peers to follow. The Blue Rose, a title that evil doers fear.

Marie and Renge then spar with one another. Both holding back their power as they clash. No one seems to pay them a piece of mind as they battle.

As the two train, Featherlock is serving everyone tea and snacks. A special brew Daisy just can’t resist. Savoring the rich flavor with every sip. She heard many things about the avian, but didn't know that he was so kind.

Meanwhile, the rest of the magical girls and their partners are minding their own business. Some are waiting patiently with stern faces, some not. A few are just treating it as a casual meeting with friends, chatting and sharing about their day. And there are those that stay afar, those who avoid any kind of interaction. They even declined Featherlock’s kind gesture. But all in all, the atmosphere is quite nice and peaceful. Must be an aura of serenity with every magical girl. Daisy doesn’t know if that is a thing or not.

“Enjoying yourself, Miss Daisy?” Featherlock approaches with a tray of biscuits.

Daisy smiles. Popping a delicious biscuit into her mouth. “These are amazing, Mr. Featherlock.”

“Please, call me Whimsy. And it is no problem at all. After all, we are now on the same team.” Daisy smiles at that. And Featherlock continues. “Also, it was quite a surprise that the Director decided to have our dear Renge take Miss Marie under her wing.”

She can’t help but laugh at that. “I was thinking the same thing. Butter is certainly clever, so much so that I don't understand his decisions.”

The two mascots watch as Marie and Renge fight. Their friendly sparring evolves into a full on duel. Marie might be talented, but skill triumphs all. She is stuck in the defensive as Renge pushes the assault. Renge’s rapier leaves Marie no chance to strike back. There are times the tables turn, Marie managing to score some hits and dodging like a professional BSD agent, but Renge proves herself superior. Until Marie knocks Renge down to her rear.

Daisy, Featherlock, and Marie freeze up in shock. “Oh my god! I am so sorry!” Marie rushes over to Renge’s side, while Daisy and Featherlock stand where they are like statues. Marie moves to help, a kind hand reach for Renge. But the woman slaps it away, who then stands up on her own. Renge doesn’t spare Marie a glance as she storms off. Rage simmering as she walks away. When Marie meets the gazes of Daisy and Featherlock, it feels like she is caught breaking an expensive vase. Seeding a sense of guilt, Marie can’t help but feel at fault for Renge’s behaviour.

“Well… Oh, dear. Um.” Featherlock speaks up albeit with a stutter.. “It looks like I need to find Renge, and check the poor girl for any injuries. Or perhaps to heal her broken pride. Be back, ladies.” He hands the tray of snacks to Daisy and runs off. Leaving an awkward silence in his wake.

The two rookies can’t help but notice that all eyes land upon them. Hush whispers piercing the silence like screams. Judging stares bearing down on them.

Daisy tries her best to ignore the looks, as she shrinks at the spot with a sheepish smile. She and Marie feel another wave of shame when their names leave Butter’s lips. Thinking fast, Daisy hands the tray of snacks to a nearby dwarven girl. Grabbing Marie by the hand, she rushed out of the gymnasium with Marie. “Thanks, lassie.” Daisy hears just as she and Marie exits. Right before she even closed the door. Daisy just can’t believe it. She acted so brashly, that she didn’t even spare Butter a chance.

The little bear doesn’t even notice how far she has taken Marie away. It was a small spar, but to Daisy, it felt more. Their image has already been ruined by their first, yet unofficial mission. She takes her partner to a bench, giving a reassuring squeeze on Marie’s hand. Daisy’s mind is clouded by bad thoughts, so she races to chase it away. “Don’t worry.” She smiles softly. “It wasn’t your fault.” There’s nothing else she can think of to say. ‘Maybe I can get something for her? Yeah, that could work!’ With a promise to return, and assuring that she will come back, Daisy dashes away. As fast as her little legs can take her.

Marie watches as Daisy runs off to somewhere. Leaving her all alone with her thoughts. The young girl begins to wonder if she is even good at being a magical girl at all. It feels like she keeps messing things up. Her major debut. The Snowfall Mountain incident. Going all out against the Iron Spear, who started the skirmish in the first place. Then the yelling during the conference meeting with the BSD supporters and donors. Those glaring eyes of her peers were like those people behind the windows. All judging, and reminding her that she still has so much to learn. Her second chance came after that meeting. She was going to work with Blue Rose herself, and show everyone that she wasn’t some damn joke.

Too bad she went all out again. Marie hated how she just threw Blue Rose, a woman of great status, to the ground like nothing. Now look at her. Marie ran away when she’s supposed to face consequences. This frustrates her enough that she has to scream into her own hands, just to not disturb others.

Now her mind wanders elsewhere. A familiar face flashes in her eyes. She can’t help but think about that ratfolk. Butter informed her and Daisy that they already had someone tracking him down, as well as looking into why he was in Snowfall Mountain. The look on that ratfolk. His eyes held so much fear, as if he thought the end was near for him. Marie can’t help but see the innocence behind those eyes. To be against such a person, it filled her with doubt and shame. She feels so overwhelmed with emotions, that Marie wants nothing more than to curl up into a ball, and… Then what? What can she even do? Follow orders like some blind soldier? “Am I even a good person?” She asks herself.

“I think so.” Someone speaks, answering for her. Marie looks up from her hands, tears somewhat threatening to fall. An old kobold stands before her, his wings poking out of his back. On his horns are words written in a language she doesn’t know. But it catches her eyes still, as it intrigues her. In his hands is a book, which he holds against his chest, like a mother shielding her child. And with age, comes wisdom and warmth. His old and wrinkled face holds a soft smile, which brings Marie to ease. He reminds her so much of her grandfather. And Marie misses him so.

“You seem troubled.” The old kobold takes a seat next to her. “Go on, these old ears have already heard so much. I’m pretty sure they’ve fallen off a long time ago!”

He laughs out at his own joke. But she is torn, this kobold reminds her so much of her grandfather that she feels comfortable enough to speak. But she can’t possibly dump it all on this stranger. He seems like a great person. She doesn’t even know what to even say. Should she even say anything at all?

“OH! Where are my manners? I am Father Benedict of the church. A pleasure to meet you.”

A priest, here? But why? “Is.. is there a demon problem?” Worry coats her voice.

He barks a laugh as a reply. “Ha ha! No, no no. There’s no demon problem, I am just here to visit an old friend.” He says with a different kind of smile. More prideful, and experienced. It is as if she is watching a wolf smile in front of her. Then it returns to that kind face she knows.

Marie isn’t sure how to feel about that, as there is a part of her that is scared of that kind smile of his. A mixed message of both warm kindness, and an ominous aura. While the other part of her is wondering if this is merely a test by the priest, to see if she belongs among her peers. A good person. Someone with an incorruptible heart of gold. Against her better judgement, and perhaps with some bent in the truth, she tells the old kobold about her first mission as a BSD agent. She wasn’t even an official agent yet, as the mission itself was kept under wraps. So with some creative writing, she just tells a story that’s coated in layers and layers of lies. Still, it ends all the same like in Snowfall Mountain. To spill the whole truth will just make things far worse than they already are.

“Hm, I see.” Benedict hums to himself, a curious tone in his voice. “Did they give you any training beforehand?” Marie simply nods. Benedict continues to stroke chin, taking it all in. Then he grows confused, his brows knitting together. “It doesn’t sound like you’re a bad person. Just someone who needs proper guidance.” He smiles proudly as if he just figured out the answer to life. “You’re lucky to have the Blue Rose to help you out. But it feels like they just… dropped you into something that they never first prepared you for.

That’s true for sure, Marie thinks. Still, she has a sheepish look as she opens her lips. “Well, you see… About that. I was actually in the top 5 when I graduated from high school. Best of the batch, they said. A mage of big potential.” She laughs nervously, looking away from the priest as if she confessed a heinous sin. “Guess they thought I could handle it?” She feels a small reassuring hound on her shoulder.

There’s warmth in his touch, and something that reminds Marie of home. “It’s fine, lassie. Everyone makes mistakes. Part and parcel of being a person.

Though short, that sentence is enough to chase off the rest of her doubt. She feels a sudden sense of comfort as she looks upon that smile. Perhaps she can do it, she can show them all that she belongs in this agency.

“That explains why Butter wants you to work with me.” A different voice speaks up from behind her.

Marie jumps out of the bench, her rear landing on the floor a little too hard. She can ignore it for now. Because Daisy already reaches out with a gentle hand to help to her feet. But Daisy isn’t the one who spoke. No, Marie glances over her shoulder to find Renge standing behind the bench, a smug grin on her face.

Father Benedict quietly laughs to himself, finding the small interaction amusing. Featherlock is next to the priest, a look of surprise seeing the kobold there.

“Sorry for scaring you like that. Oh-ho-ho-ho!” Renge laughs haughtily. Featherlock clears his throat audibly as he gives Renge a look. The woman sighs tiredly as she looks back at Marie. “Sorry that… I just-” She swallows the lump in her throat. Perhaps it is her pride even. “I am deeply sorry that I stormed off like that. It was truly unprofessional of me. Both as a magical girl, and a person.” Featherlock smiles, clearly happy that Renge apologized.

Marie holds out a hand, a soft smile on her face as she faces Renge. “I forgive you.” Renge accepts the hand into hers, and they shake. Turning a page away from their little pointless conflict.

“Yes, a girl like you has potential. Those teachers of yours are right indeed.” Renge says, smiling proudly.

Benedict claps his hands, as if he just saw a stage play ending beautifully. “How nice to see the two of you get along. Truly, one small slight isn’t the end of the world. No, things can change for the better. Sadly, if I stay too long here, places to be and all that.” He hops off the bench.

As he does, Daisy steps into his line of sight, thumbs fiddling together. “I’m surprised to see you here, Father Benedict. Here to visit a friend?”

He merely nods his head, and walks away in silence. The four watches as he rounds a corner, questions stacking upon one another. Wondering who he’s meeting, and what they need from Benedict.

“Hey, Marie?” The girl glances over to Daisy, who pulls out a flyer from her bag. An advertisement for a restaurant’s opening day, right at the mall. Renge takes an interest, but does her best not to show it. “We should definitely go there, Renge is the one who picked it out!” Marie can almost hear Renge choke on air. Still, Marie can’t help but smile.

‘Maybe things will be okay in the end.’ Marie thinks to herself. “Alright, what are we waiting for? Let’s go there!”

---

Sebastian is about to lose it. Weeks, he has been following and observing Shephard for weeks. Yet so far, he found nothing out of the ordinary. Not a single sign or clue to whatever secret he’s hiding. Shephard leaves Garnier’s home for work every morning, making sure to catch the first bus early, and reading a book while he waits. A history book, Sebastian recognized it from afar. The cover, the title font, no doubt about it. When the bus finally shows up, Sebastian follows Shephard with reasonable distance. Far enough to be inconspicuous, blending in with the crowd. Keeping his eyes on Shephard no matter the angle. There’s always ways to track prey, especially in the big city. From the reflection on the window, to the predictions of their path direction.

The hard part is when Sebastian has to break away once Shephard arrives at work. Too suspicious if he just follows him in, the detective knew that as much. There’s only so much a detective can do until raising attention. Especially when one is in his summer clothes as some form of disguise.

Much to Sebastian’s surprise, Shephard works at a local library. After doing some background checks, and looking into some blueprints and layouts- legally of course, the library itself shows no signs of malicious origins. Nothing demon related, or any kind of foul occultism. Standard library design with no hidden secrets. The library is as simple as they come. Normal and plain.

But it looks like Shephard had forgotten that it is currently Sunday, and as expected, the building is closed.

“One thing I learned about him,” Sebastian whispers to himself as he continues to shadow Shephard. “He loves pizza, a little too much.”

As Sebastian expected, the two head straight to the mall, the closest place one can get pizza from.

And now… the best detective in the land is watching a person eat pizza. This is his breaking point. Nothing makes sense about Shephard over the week Sebastian has been observing. Because he’s as normal as anyone else. Right on time to work, leisurely walks in the park, sometimes feeding the birds even. He reads books, exercises, and comes to the mall to buy things. Anything essential to ratfolks, and maybe some music.

Whenever Sebastian starts to believe that he was tracking the wrong rat, he takes a picture.

Still that damn haunting appearance. A scorched corpse. Yet… the way he smiled at every normal thing as if it was his first experience. As if the pizza he’s enjoying was his last. The way he acts as if he wanted to be a part of something. No matter how mundane that thing is.

At that moment, Sebastian is starting to think things over, over and over and over. Every damn clue, every little hint. But it always ends the same way.

The detective frowns to himself. ‘Why did the BSD hire me to track him?’ He asks himself. ‘He is not like the shadows I fought, the villains I chased. Those who would be so grandiose, boastful, that they lose themselves in their own monologuing. Talking about how the city is theirs for the taking. Surrounded by their goons, who fight in their stead. Yet there’s Shephard. The silent one. A coward who is as charismatic as a rock. The one who hides in the shadows and steals food.’ Sebastian fishes something out of his pocket: a spoon.

The same spoon Shephard had thrown at Sebastian when they first met. The fear in his eyes was evident, as if he believed that he’d die then and there. No matter how many times he checked, the spoon itself is just as normal as the rat in question. Almost. ‘What did you do, Shepherd? What crimes could one commit to bring ablaze to the BSD HQ? So badly enough to have them send their shadow to employ me?’ He glances back at Shephard, who is finishing up his pizza with a look of a happy child.

Sebastian wants to know more about him. But he needs to tread carefully, or else risk revealing himself. And worse, scaring him off. Examining the picture, he can’t help but notice the creature’s smile. Despite being some haunting photo, he looks so happy. It is just so uncanny, to see a corpse smiling. Even then, no matter how disturbing it is, it feels so genuine. The problem is that Sebastian just can’t figure out if it is merely an act. If so, then he almost won Sebastian over. So normal, too normal.

“But what are you, Shepherd? What really are you?” Sebastian asks himself.

Moving on, he watches Shephard throw away his trash, before walking away from the food court. And like usual, Sebastian follows. Putting the spoon away, he stalks his prey. Watching Shephard who is busy staring through a window display. Trying to see if there’s anything that catches his eye.

Sebastian wonders if this is like before. Just Shephard going window shopping. Or perhaps this is one of the rare times he actually buys something. Suddenly, Shepherd stops dead in his tracks, the color draining from his face, as fear replaces that satisfied smile he was wearing. Mimicking him in his steps, Sebastian dives a little bit to the side to remain inconspicuous. And looking up, he freezes as well. There, ahead, are a group of magical girls and their mascots, agents of the BSD.

Sebastian’s lips purses. ‘Is that the Blue Rose? Why is she here?’ Then Sebastian notices something amiss: Shephard is missing. Vanishing the moment Sebastian takes his eyes off him. ‘What!? How!?’ Sebastian snaps around, his neck feeling the whiplash as he twists to every direction. Sadly, he has no time to figure out the trick of the vanishing rat, as the Blue Rose herself is already approaching.

She looks him up and down, her sunglasses hiding her intent. “You look like an uncle.” She says without prompting. Before he can even utter a word, she grabs him by his summer shirt, leading him away. Right towards the others. The group watches them with a bewildered look, both magical girls and mascots alike. They’re certainly a colorful bunch, Sebastian notes. They stand out as well.

“Now, how did you even know that it was me?” He looks at Renge with an arching brow.

She pulls down her sunglasses just a little. Her piercing gaze peaking over the eyewear. “I could tell that it was you, because you didn’t cover your face.”

A surprised look grows on his face. So far his disguise worked, as he has been ignored by everyone. Specifically his fans who want to meet him, or take a picture with. And to actually prove to himself that his disguise worked, the group slowly changes in expressions. It grows from confusion to recognition, then finally adoration. Featherlock even looks thrilled seeing him.

Once he comes to a stop, he realizes that Renge brought him to… a make your own food restaurant? If Sebastian remembers right, this place is called the Chop Goblin, which is run by goblins of course. Sebastian has no idea why they name it that. But so far, it is working out for these little creatures. The name itself and the employees really do catch people’s attention.

“Come on then, let’s go to our table.” Renge releases him and walks away. He wonders if she somehow planned this. Can’t be. Though she did show some cleverness before.

There’s something prodding him on the leg. Sebastian looks down to find Featherlock poking away at him. “Sebastian, it has been far too long. How have you been, old friend?” Something in Sebastian just knows that this is going to be a long day.

After joining them at the table, Sebastian begins to examine the group. A little habit he has, especially with strangers. He knows them by name, and reputation. Everyone but two. A new blood he assumes. Fresh out of the school and now an agent of the BSD. Sebastian will have to figure out Shephard later.

The newbie is seated next to him, so she raises a hand, offering it to him. “Hi my name is Marie, and this Daisy.” The bear mascot waves her hand. He can tell that the two are doing their best holding in their excitement. Sebastian has seen this thousands of times before. And as he predicts, Daisy pulls out a book. He can’t help but smile upon seeing one of his works. The first one to be in fact.

The one book that propelled his career, when he first debuted as a private detective. Simply just starting out from the bottom. “The Ghost of the Haunted Hotel” is the title. He remembers that day well. The case itself took him a bit since he was still inexperienced like Marie. But luckily he got it in the end. Uncovering the truth, and revealing that there was no ghost in the beginning. Simply the owner pulling a stunt to gain attention for their hotel. ‘Good Times…’

After that little trip down memory lane, Sebastian signs the book, and he watches as Daisy and Marie beams up with smiles. Quite adorable truly.

As the hours go by, he interacts with the two more than the others. Answering their questions while he asks them his own. In that few hours, he learns that Marie had only recently started. Far more recent than he expected. A few more casual questions here and there, nothing invasive. Though it is a bit of a habit, he manages to get a couple answers he didn’t actually need to know. One thing that stands out is when she said that she’s 20 years old. He wonders why she had to lie.

“So, why are you here, good friend?” Featherlock jumps in with a question of his own.

“What do you mean, Whimsy?” Featherlock raises a brow at Sebastian’s own inquiry.

“I mean, do you usually come out here?”

There is a part of Sebastian that wants to tell him the truth, but no… He needs to keep quiet about this. There are too many risks if the truth spills out.

“Indeed I do, actually. I was checking on an old friend. To see how they are doing.” Sebastian lies confidently. Hoping that the deception lands as easy as he breathes. And Whimsy believes it. He just hopes that the peacock will forgive him for this little lie. But for some reason, Daisy’s expression lights up like a beacon in the mist.

“OH! This is why Father Benedict is here; to meet you, Sebastian!” She claims as if it is the answer to some big question.

‘Wait what?’ His face nearly betrays him, nearly breaking his passive expression. But he now wonders why THE Undertaker is here. The fact surprised him, at first, but now it worries him. It makes no sense. “I see you have met him already.” Sebastian hums an amused tone. ‘Another mystery to solve, just my luck.’

“Yeah,” Marie says with a fondness in her voice, as if she is speaking of a close relative. “He was quite nice.” It is clear to Sebastian that the old man reminds Marie of her grandparent.

Benedict does have that effect on people, that much Sebastian knows. But he knows that underneath the cleric’s kindness is a wolf’s fangs, just readying to pounce at unsuspecting prey. Sebastian shudders at the memory of one of his biggest mistakes. Trying to pry into Benedict’s mind, to understand him better. And the detective did see behind the curtain. Something he rather not think about. That old man is like a hidden dagger.

Time goes by as Sebastian joins their conversations, enjoying a meal, and finally learning more about Marie and Daisy. The two new agents of the BSD. As he finishes his plate, Sebastian checks his watch. Whether or not it was an act, he himself doesn’t know. “It looks like I have to go. Any longer and I might end up running late.” He says as he gathers his things. ‘And I also need to figure out where Shephard is.’ As he rises, so does Renge.

“You’re right, Sebastian. This has been a nice team bonding experience for everyone. But Whimsy and I must go as well, we do need to check on Shephard.”

Just like that, Sebastian sees an opportunity to get some information about his target. “Oh, him? How is the poor boy doing? Last I’ve seen of Shephard, he was on the train with you.”

Renge shrugs her shoulders. “Don’t know a lot. I don’t exactly have the time to watch a commoner. But Whimsy keeps a close eye on him.”

Sebastian can feel the smugness from where he stands. Renge was always the prideful one. He glances over to the peacock.

“Oh, Shephard?” Featherlock places some cash onto the table. “He’s been doing good. Being a mute made things a little tricky, especially when communicating with the servants as none know sign language. So it is always up to me to help out whenever I can.” He hops off the chair then pushes it into the table. “Thankfully, getting him a job at the library was easy. Seeing him happy was… Something to see.”

Sebastian’s brow arches. “What do you mean by that?”

“Um,” Featherlock places a palm on his head. “Have you heard something called a boggling before?”

Sebastian knows where this is going. “I see. Until we meet again, Whimsy.” With that, he starts to walk away. The Chop Goblin slowly disappears from his view.

Marie and Daisy both have wide smiles on their faces. Their day has really been eventful and memorable. Spending time with their new friends. Having a good talk with a wonderful person such as Benedict, and finally meeting Sebastian himself. The day is just perfect.

Something catches Marie’s attention. As Sebastian rounds a corner, something falls out of his pocket. In an attempt to help out, Marie rushes over and grabs the picture, only to find that the detective is long gone. What he left behind is a photo. Curious, Marie goes to check the image. Only to have it taken away by Renge.

It takes Renge a few seconds to understand what she is staring at. The picture does not make sense for a moment.

“Is that Shephard?” She asks with a confused look.

This question attracts the attention of others. By now, the whole group is staring at a picture of a ratfolk, who is sitting on a bench. Leisurely feeding some rock doves, a bag of seed in hand. But what really catches their attention is the strange figure that looms over his shoulder. Almost shadowy at first, but its features are somewhat clear to them. An ominous spirit resembling a burnt corpse is standing behind the ratfolk, who doesn’t seem to notice said apparition. The image alone is enough to tell them that whatever this being is, it is dangerous.

As they continue to stare at the picture, Marie and Daisy can’t help but feel like they have seen this person before. The two just can’t put a finger on it. Renge expresses a look of bewilderment, wondering why this particular object was in Sebastian’s possession in the first place. Another part of her is questioning the existence of this spirit. Featherlock can’t help but look upon the image in fear.

Though it looks to be that the ghost is haunting Shephard, an oddity appears upon its face. The spirit is smiling. A genuine one that belongs more to the living. Someone who is happy with their life.

None of these girls knew what to do next. It feels like they discovered something they weren’t meant to find.