The Night Before the Storm

The night sky shimmered with stars, but within The Sage Rat, a storm was brewing.

After hearing the report from the Wise Crow, the small rat quietly left the celebration, stepping into the silent forest beyond the village. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves, carrying whispers of an uncertain future. The memories of the great war among the beasts were still vivid in his mind, but now, an even graver conflict loomed ahead—the impending clash between humankind and the natural world.

He climbed onto a large rock, gazing into the distance where the rolling hills faded into darkness. In that moment, he realized the peace that had been won with blood and sacrifice could crumble at any time.

"Is this truly inevitable?"

A solemn voice spoke behind him. The Wise Crow had silently followed from the festival. His sharp eyes, reflecting the moonlight, were filled with deep contemplation.

"We fought to unite the beasts" the Wise Crow continued "but humans were never part of that harmony. We only delayed the inevitable."

The Sage Rat did not respond immediately. He understood that while the beasts had found a path to peace, humans remained outside that realm. They were stronger, smarter, but also greedier. Now that they no longer faced threats from the united beasts, they had turned against the very creatures they once shared the planet with.

"I once hoped" The Sage Rat finally spoke, his voice calm yet resolute, "that if the beasts could overcome hatred, then humans could learn the same."

"Hope?" The Wise Crow let out a quiet chuckle. "You've always been a dreamer, but more than anyone, you know that human greed is boundless."

The Sage Rat turned to face the old crow. There was no anger in his eyes—only determination.

"Then I will teach them. With words… or with blood, if necessary."

The words silenced the Wise Crow. He had not expected The Sage Rat to speak with such conviction.

A sudden gust of wind swept through the trees, scattering dry leaves across the ground. In the distance, the horizon darkened, the first signs of an approaching storm.

This was only the beginning.