At sunset, the fiery clouds in the sky were a dark red.
Zou, Mokomo Dukedom.
Amid a dense, emerald forest stood an ancient city. Its architecture still retained the old style of several centuries ago, with most buildings constructed from rough-hewn stone.
At the very center of the city stood an enormous tree resembling a whale raising its tail toward the sky. It was especially eye-catching, practically a landmark.
Rabbit Minks, Dog Minks, Cat Minks, Leopard Minks, and other Minks of various appearances came and went through the city streets. Their faces were filled with happy smiles as they lived leisurely, carefree lives.
Beneath the Whale Tree, a rabbit girl in an orange skirt, with shoulder-length golden hair and soft, snow-white fur all over her body, gazed up at the lush tree before her and said softly, "Boss Nekomamushi, why can't we leave Zou whenever we want? I really want to see the outside world..."
Hearing this, the plump cat Mink standing beside her, covered in golden fur and draped in a red cloak, burst into laughter. "Carrot, the outside world is dangerous! We Minks are a rare race out there! If you aren't strong enough, people might capture you and turn you into slaves..."
"I'm already very strong!"
As she spoke, the rabbit girl Carrot raised her right hand.
Blue arcs of lightning immediately crackled across her palm. Crackle!
Seeing this, Nekomamushi shook his head with a laugh. "Hahaha! You're still far from strong enough! Look at Pedro. Even though he was so powerful, after going out there, he lost an eye, gave up fifty years of his lifespan, and came back here in a miserable state. Besides..."
"Besides what?"
"Our agreement with Lady Toki will arrive in a little over three years! When that time comes, we Minks