The afternoon sun hung high, casting long shadows as ten towering beastmen approached.
Their footsteps were heavy, their presence undeniable. Dressed in nothing but animal-hide skirts, their muscled bodies gleamed under the golden light, exuding raw strength and intimidation.
Ophelia shifted nervously beside Isabella, wringing her hands together. "They're so… big," she whispered, as if the mere mention of their size would make them notice her.
Shelia, on the other hand, crossed her arms, watching them approach with narrowed eyes. "Took them long enough."
As soon as the beastmen stopped a few feet away, their expressions turned serious. Then, to Isabella's surprise, they all lowered their heads slightly—not a full bow, but enough to acknowledge respect.
One of them, the tallest, stepped forward. His voice was deep, carrying authority. "The King has sent us to find an important woman," he declared. "One who will help improve our village greatly."
