Preparing for the Worst      

"Alright, let's get started," Rain said, rolling up his sleeves. He began demonstrating how to set up the traps, with his troops eagerly following his lead.

"First, we need to create snares using this rope. It's strong enough to hold even the largest Hobgoblin." Rain demonstrated the process, explaining each step in detail. The troops watched intently, absorbing the knowledge.

"We'll also make pitfall traps," Rain continued. "We can cover them with leaves and branches to disguise them."

The process was slow but steady, with everyone contributing to the construction of their defenses.

Rain glanced at the little wolf cub from time to time, noting how it watched them curiously. He hoped that seeing their cooperative efforts would further calm the cub and perhaps even make it feel a part of their growing community.

Chin and Chick quickly gathered the materials and started on the pitfall traps. Rain watched them for a moment, ensuring they understood the instructions before moving on.

"Chill, you'll be in charge of setting up the snare traps with the magic rope. Make sure they're hidden well and positioned where they're most likely to catch any Hobgoblins trying to sneak around."

Chill saluted and got to work, carefully unrolling the magic rope and selecting the best spots for the snares.

"Meanwhile, I will handle the barricades. Use whatever materials you can find — wood, stones, anything. We need to funnel the Hobgoblins into our traps and slow them down."

As they all set to work, Rain felt a sense of urgency but also a sense of purpose. They were transforming their territory into a defensible position, a place where they could stand a chance against the Hobgoblins or other creatures that came their way.

While the troops worked, Rain continued to refer to his book, looking for any additional tips or strategies. He made notes and adjusted their plans as needed, ensuring they were as prepared as possible.

Rain also kept an eye on the little wolf cub, making sure it was being cared for. Despite its initial fear, the cub seemed to be calming down, watching the activity with growing curiosity.

By the time Chi returned, the shelter was surrounded by a network of traps and barricades. Rain felt a surge of pride at what they had accomplished together. But there were still a lot of work to be done.

"Welcome back, Chi," Rain greeted her. "We've been busy while you were gone. How did it go?"

Chi's expression grew serious.

~Chi . . .~

Rain's smile faded, his face grave. "I see . . . The Hobgoblins are feasting on the wolves they've killed. But you encountered one of their scouts on your way back."

~Chi . . .~

"You killed it and hid the body. However, the others will still notice its absence. It's only a matter of time before they find the corpse."

~Chi . . .~

Rain smiled and patted Chi's head. "It's not your fault, Chi. You did a good job in finding their lair. I'm sure that you're tired. You should rest first and eat. It's already night. We'll talk more tomorrow morning."

Chi nodded and went by the fire to cook some meat for the team.

Alone, Rain took a deep breath, his body shaking, his hands trembling so badly they wouldn't stop. If the Hobgoblins found their shelter, it would be his first battle against numerous beasts.

Chi had said the Hobgoblins numbered at least twenty, and they were greatly outnumbered. It would be his first mini war if ever.

Rain really hoped and prayed that it wouldn't come to that. He desperately wished the Hobgoblins wouldn't find their territory and would search farther north, west, or east instead. 

According to Chi, who mapped the area, the Hobgoblins' lair was at least a hundred kilometers from their shelter. This distance gave him hope that the Hobgoblins might not stumble upon it.

Rain leaned back, massaging his temples, trying to stave off the growing headache.

Who was he kidding?!

Of course, that was only wishful thinking on his part.

I have to be ready for the worst.

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|| A/N ||

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