Perla had always felt a longing for adventure, stifled by the rules of her strict upbringing and surrounded by her older brothers free to do as they wanted. She longed to carve her own path, to seek out excitement and perhaps even a little romance along the way. One day, while escaping yet another tedious piano class, she stumbled into the hollow of a massive tree. At its base, a mesmerizing green light beckoned her, and before she knew it, she was transported to a bizarre forest teeming with colossal, long-extinct creatures and menacing carnivorous plants. 

This was the realm of Beastkin, where men could transform into mighty beasts. Here, the constant threat of war had led to a peculiar imbalance, with most females giving birth to male Beastkin, resulting in a dire shortage of women. The land was a battleground, filled with mercenaries and adventurers seeking glory. While the males formed companies to embark on quests, their females stayed behind, living a life of comfort. But not Perla—she was determined to break free from the mold, to grow stronger, and to join her new love interests on exhilarating escapades.

Then, my mind wandered to my beloved Oliver. What if I were to have some adorable little chipmunk daughters someday? The mere thought sends a chill through me—wouldn't they be at risk? It's terrifying to think that there are even beastkin out there who might see female chipmunks as a meal! How utterly horrifying!


We strolled in a quiet contemplation for a bit, each lost in our own thoughts. It was clear she had her own worries, just like I did, but the quiet between us felt warm and reassuring rather than awkward. There was a sense of comfort in knowing we were together, both seeking solace in the presence of someone who meant no harm.


Chapter 71 - Why They Can't Leave