Chapter 57: Village Party
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Luna smiled, stepping closer so that her tall ears nearly brushed Kai’s antennae. Her presence felt strangely comforting to him and, at the same time, stirring in ways he did not fully understand. "Come," she said, "the village is not far. We can find food, medicine, and a place to rest."
So, with cautious steps, the ants followed Luna through a winding forest trail. The sun climbed higher, sending gentle warmth through the trees. Kai walked near the bunny girl, catching glimpses of her playful grin. Somewhere inside, he felt his pulse quicken. Something about her lit a spark of longing in him, a mix of curiosity and powerful attraction. Could she sense it, too?
A few moments later.....
They arrived at a small village nestled among rolling hills. Simple huts dotted the valley, each one made from wood and baked clay. A soft breeze carried the scent of fresh bread and blooming flowers.
People... no human shape beastkin, and other bunny folk moved slowly through the dirt paths, smiling politely at the newcomers. A few turned to stare at the ants, but no one seemed alarmed. It was as if the village was used to travelers.
"This is where I came," Luna explained, her long ears twitching as she guided them through a rustic wooden gate. "I have a friend here who helps me with herbal cures. I thought you might want to see if they have potions or bandages for your wounds."
Kai studied the village’s relaxed air, noticing many different species of children giggling and playing near a shady tree, while an older woman with cat or fox ears sold fruit from a woven basket. The group was weary, so they took up Luna’s suggestion. Darius, though tense, could not deny that a safe rest stop was welcome. He told the ants to remain on guard, but they agreed to at least settle for the night.
They could heal Lomar and eat some good food. It’s been days since they eat a proper meal. Since the beginning of their journey they were eating only dried meat.
Their first stop was a humble lodging type building, a small wooden village hall with a thatched roof. Inside, a friendly hall keeper welcomed them, unconcerned about the unknown people. Perhaps the bunny girl’s presence vouched for them or he revived many travellers visiting the village hall for rest. The ants were given a big room with straw beds. Basic, but better than sleeping on damp leaves. At last, the group could relax.
Luna, having seen the travelers safely to a safe spot, smiled at them. "You rest now," she told everyone. "I’ll come by tonight and bring you some food. Then... maybe we can talk more." Her last words were aimed at Kai, who felt a flutter in his chest.