The Great Forest's rainy season, which had lasted for months, finally ended on a silent dawn.
The familiar patter of rain was gone, replaced by the clear echoes of droplets falling from the leaves-drip, drop-as they joined the pools below.
The air carried the damp scent of fresh rain.
Today, footsteps rang out across the wooden walkways of the Beastfolk village far more often than usual.
The Beastfolk warriors emerged from their homes and stretched in the long-awaited sunlight. They began inspecting and maintaining their weapons.
The women worked together to carry hides and fabrics out onto the terraces to dry; the children's bright laughter echoed through the forest.
On the Treehouse terrace, Cui Ciyou stood by the railing, a breeze stirring the black hair over his forehead. He took a deep breath of the fresh air after the rain.
"Ciyou, look! The sky's cleared!"
Alice burst out of the house in a flash of scarlet. Like a cat finally released from its cage, she bounded excitedly across the spacious terrace, her fiery ponytail dancing through the air. Sylphy followed behind her, her short, pale-blue hair gleaming softly in the sunlight. She tilted her face up, enjoying the sun's long-awaited warmth.
A gentle smile spread across Cui Ciyou's face as he watched their delight.
After a simple breakfast, Cui Ciyou straightened his clothes and headed to the Great Tree Main House, where the two chiefs held their joint discussions, accompanied by Alice, Sylphy, Rujierd, and a bleary-eyed Keith.
The two elderly chiefs, Gustav and Bruddo, were there.
"Chiefs, thank you for your people's generous hospitality all this time." Cui Ciyou bowed first, then spoke sincerely:
"Now that the rainy season has passed, the roads should be open again within a few days. We have important matters to attend to, so