Chapter 3a

They all huddled together in a circle. Together with Leo, Whitey, and the other forest creatures, they devised a strategy to thwart the poachers. But none of the scenarios altered Leo’s predicted conclusion.

This is ridiculous! I am a caticorn. I do not want to hurt these humans even if they’re horrible. And if fight back they could come back in far greater numbers.– Whitey Meowed to all.

Did you forget the pile of corpses? They haul them out everyday with no end. –A deer spoke

I lost my sister! –A squirrel

They took my mother! –A bear

Whitey peered around. This forest and its inhabitants fascinate Whitey.

There was Maddy, a purple squirrel who appeared to control rainbow St. Elmo’s fire. When necessary, it can be used to zap trees out of sight. Then there was Peter, a timid blue fire fox. He had a special kind of fire that helped clear the way for new life by devouring dying lumber. He did not cause any damage wherever he went. And Casey, the flying fire goldfish of dreams. A fairy’s companion, or so I was told. Their glow guides creatures in the afterlife.
Even the smallest of creatures, the shroomucks. Every time they dug a hole, a new mushroom would grow. Allowing open communications with the roots of the trees in the forest (their network). They were all intimidating enough on their own. Born and raised in their own natural habitats. Despite feeling their fear and anger, Whitey was fascinated by every single one. 

You need to forgive them. –Whitey spoke out

You expect us to forgive THEM? THEY took away our family. I want vengeance! –A pink boar growled.

Yes, ~ she paused a moment~ I can make them see they’re wrong. I don’t know how to explain it but I can FEEL it. I can persuade them to never return to the forest but this has to be done my way. Please Trust me. Why else did you bring me here?

All the animals looked to Leo as he lowered her head as if to agree. The rest followed suit and agreed that none would intentional harm the humans on purpose. Then an idea dawned on Whitey.

Leo, can you create shadows in the forest?–whitey

Yes, I suppose I could by altering the lights of the crystals. –Leo

Purrfect!–Whitey

Whitey formulated a plan and shared it with Leo. Leo gazed into the future and witnessed merely blankness.

It was unpredictable but at the same time there wasn’t much options if they did nothing.

– The images are Ai-generated but engineered by I hence it’s working together to create them. Credit is due. However the story is mine. If you like my insane world consider following me. Zaps are always appreciated. You can also subscribe to my paragraph.xyz/@onigirl For the best reading experience please use Nostr!!