Critter Cove

The sun had long since vanished beyond the horizon, swallowed by the dense jungle that stretched as far as the eye could see. In its absence, the night draped its vast, inky cloak over the world, punctuated only by the silvery glow of the moon and the twinkling stars scattered across the sky like glitter on black silk.

The rhythmic clatter of the wagon wheels against the uneven road had momentarily ceased, but the air remained alive with sound. A distant hum of voices, laughter, and music drifted through the cool night breeze, carrying with it the unmistakable energy of a bustling settlement.

Bon, seated at the front of the wagon, turned his head toward Kartia, who lounged in the back with her arms crossed. His eyes sparkled with excitement.

"I think the meat guy was right. I can hear something up ahead." He gestured toward the direction of the noise, his enthusiasm barely contained.

Kartia scoffed, tilting her chin up with an air of superiority. "Fool, I already knew it was there long before you did," she declared, folding her arms with exaggerated pride.

The creaking of the wagon resumed, the horses trotting steadily forward as the sounds of life grew clearer. And then, at last, it appeared before them—a city, vast and vibrant, nestled against the jungle's edge.

Buildings of stone and wood stretched toward the night sky, their surfaces illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns and torches. The streets, despite the late hour, buzzed with activity. Merchants called out their wares, musicians played cheerful tunes, and groups of travelers laughed over shared meals. It was a city that never seemed to sleep.

As they approached the grand entrance, their gazes lifted toward a large wooden signboard suspended above the archway. The letters were bold and neatly carved, marking the city's name in clear script.

Both Bon and Kartia squinted at it, trying to decipher the words. They leaned forward, tilting their heads this way and that, as though viewing it from different angles would miraculously help them understand.

"…C-r-i…uh…Critt?" Bon mumbled, his brow furrowing.

"Maybe it says Crater Cave?" Kartia guessed confidently.

"Crater what? That doesn't make sense."

"Oh, and Critter Cove makes sense to you?"

"I didn't say that—wait, what if it actually says that?"

They were so caught up in their incoherent debate that they didn't notice the man standing nearby, watching them with mild amusement.

"Welcome to Critter Cove!" A deep, cheerful voice rang out, full of energy.

Bon and Kartia immediately turned toward the speaker. He was a broad-shouldered man, likely in his late thirties, with the physique of someone who had spent years hauling heavy cargo. He wore a checkered shirt with sleeves rolled up to his elbows, revealing muscular forearms, and trousers secured with crisscrossed belts. A thick mustache adorned his round face, giving him the appearance of a seasoned merchant.

Behind him stood a wagon—much larger and far more well-kept than Bon and Kartia's own. It was pulled by four sturdy horses, making theirs look like a scrap pile ready for disposal in comparison.

"Uh… thanks?" Bon said hesitantly, unsure whether the man was addressing them or simply reading the sign aloud.

The man turned his gaze to them, offering a friendly grin. "Hey there, young ones! Are you here to venture into the wonders of Critter Cove Park?"

Bon perked up at that, his curiosity instantly piqued. "Well, not exactly… but I wouldn't say no to a little adventure."

His original plan had been simple—find a guide to navigate the Great Jungle. But hearing the words "venture into the wonders" triggered something in him. How could he not take a slight detour? What kind of explorer would he be if he ignored an opportunity for excitement?

He turned to Kartia, wanting to gauge her reaction.

And that was when his jaw nearly hit the ground.

Kartia's eyes were practically glowing.

She was shimmering with excitement, her usual guarded demeanor thrown aside like a discarded cloak.

"So, where do we start?!" she asked eagerly, fists clenched at her sides.

The merchant let out a hearty chuckle. "Oh my, what an enthusiastic pair you are." He took a moment to study them before stroking his mustache in thought. "Well, if adventure is what you seek, I can point you to a few interesting places."

But just as he was about to continue, a loud grumbling sound interrupted him.

Bon and Kartia froze, eyes widening.

It was their stomachs.

The growls rumbled so loudly they could have been mistaken for distant thunder.

The merchant blinked, then burst into laughter. "Well, well… I think before we talk about adventure, you two should start by filling your stomachs."

Bon sheepishly scratched the back of his head. Kartia, on the other hand, pretended nothing happened.

"Today must be your lucky day," the merchant continued. "I just returned from a long journey myself, and I could use a warm meal. How about you two join me? I know one of the best diners in all of Critter Cove."

Bon and Kartia didn't hesitate for even a second.

"Lead the way!" they chimed in unison.

And just like that, they followed the merchant through the lively streets of Critter Cove, their growling stomachs leading them toward their first stop in the city of adventure.