Draserraney

*****WPC OCT 2024 Entry*****
When Carl Suis, a fresh zoology graduate, lands an internship with MECCP (Mythical and Endangered Creatures Care and Protection), he expects to work with exotic animals—not be magically whisked into Mythica, a realm brimming with dragons, mermaids, and other magical creatures.

What starts as a dream job quickly spirals into chaos. Feeding creatures is the least of Carl’s worries as he tackles ecosystem meltdowns, interspecies feuds, and cultural clashes straight out of a fantasy fever dream. Forget the myths—these creatures are nothing like the books said.

With Mythica’s fragile world teetering on collapse and MECCP’s future at stake, Carl must rely on his zoological skills, quick thinking, and unexpected allies to save the day. But in this unpredictable land, survival means embracing the wild—and the wildly hilarious—at every turn.

Can Carl protect this magical world, or will his internship be his last adventure?

A Zoologist’s Guide to Surviving Magical Creatures

"Why is Hestia a prisoner of war? She didn't start it in the first place!" I asked, utterly shocked by the revelation.

Both Agnos and Jiuge exchanged hesitant glances. It was clear they weren't eager to explain, but Jiuge eventually broke the silence.

"The Mistress—Hestia—surrendered herself," she said quietly. "After Kaleon fell into eternal slumber and bound himself in the coffin within the Lake of Tears, she decided to ease Kaleon's guilt by giving herself up."

"That doesn't make any sense," I said, my voice rising. "Why surrender? The war was over."

"That's where you're wrong, Carl," Agnos interjected. He flipped his long purple hair—unconsciously, I think—before adding, "There are those who continue the war, exploiting it even after Kaleon chose to sleep."

I frowned, still not fully grasping it. "What do you mean, exploiting it?"

The Conspiracy