Chapter 31: Difference
Rinni’s soft whimpers were drowned out by the sudden shift in Allen’s demeanor. His body tensed, his gaze snapping to the trees.
"Footsteps," he muttered under his breath.
Before she could respond, Fina’s ears perked sharply, her tail stiffening. "They’re coming from the west," she whispered, pointing with a clawed hand.
Rinni, still trembling and flushed, followed Fina’s gesture, her own ears twitching nervously. "I hear it too," she added softly, glancing at Allen for guidance.
Allen straightened, his voice low but commanding. "Get dressed. Now."
Fina was already moving, her hands quick and practiced as she slipped her top back on and tightened her feathered skirt. Rinni scrambled to grab her micro bikini maid outfit, her hands fumbling with the strings in her haste.
"Allen, who—" Rinni began, but he cut her off with a sharp look.
"Not now," he said firmly. "Just do it."
The rustling grew louder, and soon the foliage parted, revealing the source of the noise.
A group of adventurers emerged—a human man at the forefront, flanked by an elf woman and a stocky dwarf. But it was the fourth figure that caught Allen’s eye.
Trailing behind them, his wrists bound with chains and his body riddled with bruises, was a beastkin boy. His ears drooped low, and he limped heavily, one leg clearly injured. His tail hung limp behind him, and dried blood stained the ragged remains of his clothing.