"Pick between these outfits," KiAera motioned her paw toward her bed. "That's called a tracksuit, those are shorts, that's a tank top, and that one is a robe. I even have an Oni-themed one. Try them all on. We'll adjust the size if necessary."

  Mina stared at her as if she had grown a second head. "You want me to wear that?"

  KiAera nodded. "Yes. Now pick one and try it on. I'll wait outside."

  The Minokaurbo shook her head in disbelief but began to inspect the various outfits. After a few minutes of deliberation, she settled on the tracksuit.

  "This one, then." Mina held up the outfit, which was black with white stripes and an oni symbol on the front.

  KiAera then handed her a pair of boyshorts. "Here, these will go well with that outfit. Go ahead and try them on."

  Mina took the clothing and headed into the bathroom to change. When she emerged a few minutes later, she was only wearing the tracksuit's top and the boyshorts. "How do I look?"

  KiAera's fur bristled. "Where's the pants?"

  Mina smirked. "What? There's nothing wrong with showing off a little leg, right?" She struck a pose. "Anyway, I didn't like how they felt so I tore them to shreds. Sorry."

  KiAera sighed. "Fine. But at least keep the shorts on from now on. And stop tearing up the clothes."

  "Sure thing, bunny." Mina grinned, looking rather pleased with herself.

  KiAera couldn't help but smile at the sight. "You know what, this is a good look for you. You look cute in it. Try this outfit on next."

  Mina flushed slightly. "C-Cute? Really?" She hesitated, then took the other outfit and disappeared into the bathroom. A few minutes later, she re-emerged wearing a tank top and baggy pants. "This one's not too bad. What do you think?"

  KiAera nodded in approval. "It looks good on you. And you're right, it's not bad at all. Keep it on for now."

  The Minokaurbo nodded and began to model the outfit, striking various poses as she admired herself in the mirror.

  KiAera watched her with amusement. "You're really enjoying this, aren't you?"

  Mina flashed a grin. "Hell yeah! I've never worn clothes like this before. It feels… nice."

  KiAera chuckled. "I'm glad you like it. But we should probably get back to the main hall. The others will be wondering where we are."

  Mina shrugged. "Whatever. Let's go." She took off in the direction of the main hall, leaving KiAera to follow behind her.

  Mina suddenly came to a halt, her face curling into a sulking scowl.

  "I'm the sparkliest Merecritt in the whole forest—maybe the whole world!" Skadicritt sang to herself, not paying anyone any heed, as she skipped down the hall merrily. She spun, chasing her tail with a grin.

  Mina frowned and stomped over to the oblivious Merecritt. "Hey, you! Pinky!"

  Skadicritt paused mid-skip and turned around. "Hm? Oh, hi, Mina! Is something the matter?"

  Mina narrowed her eyes, clearly annoyed by the other monster's cheerful demeanor. "'Something the matter?'" she repeated, scoffing. "You're what's wrong, Pinky. What's with that annoying singing of yours? Can't you go bother someone else?"

  Skadicritt blinked, tilting her head to one side. "Annoying? My singing?" She looked genuinely confused, which only served to further irritate Mina.

  "Yes, your singing," Mina said through gritted teeth. "I haven't forgotten what you've done to me before I arrived here."

  Skadicritt stared up at Mina for a moment before her eyes widened in realization. "Oh! You mean when I beat you up? Yeah, sorry about that. But it's not my fault. You were going to be a big meanie to KiAera!" She glanced past Mina's legs to wave at KiAera. "Hi! Hi!"

  Mina bristled at the mention of the word "big meanie," her annoyance quickly morphing into anger. "I'll show you who's a big meanie, Pinky," she growled, taking a step toward Skadicritt.

  KiAera, sensing an impending fight, hurried forward to intervene. "Skadi, why don't you go play with Amber?"

  Skadicritt glanced between KiAera and Mina, a hint of uncertainty in her eyes. "But I don't want to leave you alone with Mina. She might hurt you again."

  Mina snarled. "I'm not going to hurt her. Unlike some people, I don't pick fights for no reason. Now get lost."

  Skadicritt frowned but nodded. "Alright, fine. I'll go find Amber." She turned and skipped off down the hallway, leaving KiAera and Mina alone.

  KiAera gave Mina a skeptical look. "She… beat you? That's hard to believe."

  "It's true," Mina grumbled, crossing her arms. "I underestimated her. She's stronger than she looks. But that doesn't change the fact that she's annoying as hell."

  KiAera sighed. "I'm sorry about that. She's just… energetic, I guess."

  Mina snorted. "Whatever. I'm not going to let her get to me. Anyway, I'm no longer interested in the main hall. Show me a room where I can sleep! I'm tired."

  KiAera nodded. "Sure, follow me."

  They made their way through the shelter until they reached the sleeping quarters, where several beds were lined up against the walls.

  Mina walked over to one of the beds and flopped down on it. "This is my bed now. No one else can use it."

  KiAera raised an eyebrow. "You sure are a pushy one."

  The Minokaurbo glared at her. "Don't test me, bunny. I'm not in the mood for games."

  KiAera shrugged and turned to leave. "Whatever you say. I'll let you get some rest. We'll talk more later."

  "Don't wake me up before I wake up!"

  "Fine, I'll let you be. Just don't cause any trouble, alright?" KiAera replied and left the sleeping quarters. "Good night, Mina."

  Mina grumbled as she curled up on the bed, closing her eyes. "Yeah, yeah. Night."

  ??. .????. .????. .??

  Zeldritzon [Cycle 16] - Morning

  Current Location:

  [Lylore Zone]

  [Crystal Shelter]

  [UvoSath Forest of the UvoSath Realm]

  "You're up early," KiAera remarked as Mina walked toward the main hall. "How was your sleep?"

  Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

  Mina yawned and stretched her arms over her head. "It was fine. The bed was more comfortable than I expected. Better than the soil and grass."

  KiAera smiled. "That's good to hear. Would you like some breakfast?"

  Mina nodded. "Sure. What are we having?"

  KiAera gestured to where a variety of food was laid out. "We have a few different options today. There's crystal dew pudding, crystalberry pancakes and waffles, and shimmer omelet. And of course, there's smoothies and tea."

  Mina stared at the food with wide eyes. "All this food? It's... it's all for me?"

  KiAera nodded. "Of course! You must be hungry after everything that's happened. Go ahead and help yourself."

  Mina began to drool as she rushed over to the main hall. She grabbed a plate and piled it high with food, almost toppling the pile over.

  Skadicritt, meanwhile, bounced around the lounge area, her heterochromatic eyes glimmering with endless curiosity as she sniffed the great variety of foods.

  "Oi, Pinky!" Mina hollered. "I'll kill you if you take my food!"

  KiAera sighed and rubbed her temples. "Mina, please try to get along with the others."

  Skadicritt tilted her head with a giggle. "Skaditty's not going to steal your food, silly! I'm just curious about what these new foods taste like!"

  Mina snorted, narrowing her eyes at the other monsters. "Yeah, well don't get any ideas, Pinky. I won't hesitate to beat you up if you try anything."

  Skadicritt stuck her tongue out at Mina. "I can beat you up anytime I want! Don't forget, I'm stronger than you!"

  Mina growled and clenched her fists, but KiAera intervened before things could escalate further. "That's enough, both of you. Please try to get along. You don't have to be friends, but at least don't try to kill each other."

  Skadicritt sighed, her ears drooping slightly. "Fine. But only for KiAera's sake." She skipped away from the table, seemingly unfazed by the confrontation.

  Mina glared at the Merecritt's retreating back before returning to her meal. KiAera could tell she was still fuming, but at least she had calmed down somewhat.

  KiAera poured herself a cup of tea and sat down at the table, watching as Mina devoured her food. "So, how is everything?"

  "It's good," Mina mumbled around a mouthful of waffles. "I've never tasted food like this before."

  "Really, now? Well, I'm glad you like it. Feel free to help yourself to as much as you want."

  "Don't mind if I do." Mina grinned and continued to stuff her face, practically inhaling the food.

  Sapshorla entered the shelter with a serene smile as she carried a basket of fresh crystal berries. "Ah, sunlights to you two, KiAera, Mina. Seems the new seed is enjoying herself."

  "Morning to you as well, Sapshorla."

  KiAera couldn't help but smile at the sight of Sapshorla's radiant presence. The plant-like monster had become an invaluable part of the group, and the new garden's bounties were all thanks to her, Saptal, and the Dimetfern.

  Mina looked up from her meal and raised an eyebrow. "You planted these, Sapkin?"

  Sapshorla chuckled softly. "I take it you've never ate anything like this before, Minokaurbo-Mina? These crystal berries were foraged from the groves not far from here. They're rich in nutrients and help Zelzons like us recover strength quickly." She set the basket down on the table, her vines arranging it neatly.

  Mina narrowed her eyes. "Don't call me 'Minokaurbo.' I'm not just a Minokaurbo. And no, I've never had food like this. I wasn't exactly living the high life before."

  Sapshorla tilted her head, her leafy hair cascading gently to one side. "No offense intended. You carry a heavy spirit—one that's endured much. Perhaps that's why the food tastes so sweet now. Hardships do tend to make joys more vibrant."

  Mina blinked, momentarily caught off guard. She looked away and grumbled, "Whatever. You talk weird."

  KiAera chuckled, sipping her tea. "She has a point, though. Sometimes you don't realize how good things can be until you've been through the worst. Trust me, I've been there too."

  Mina shoved another bite of pancake into her mouth and muttered, "Yeah, well, I'm not here for life lessons. I'm here to eat and not starve for once."

  KiAera hummed to herself. "Interesting…"

  Sapshorla offered a patient smile and began distributing the berries among the other dishes. "That is enough for today. Your path will show itself in time."

  KiAera leaned back in her chair, observing the two. "Sapshorla, where's Saptal? I haven't seen him all morning."

  Sapshorla gestured toward the forest. "He's gathering fresh dew from the glade. He mentioned wanting to prepare something special for the shelter's evening meal."

  "Ah, Saptal's cooking?" KiAera grinned. "I can't wait."

  Mina snorted. "What's so great about that guy's cooking?"

  KiAera smirked. "Let's just say you'll regret missing it. He's got a knack for turning even the simplest ingredients into something amazing."

  Mina raised an eyebrow but didn't comment further, too engrossed in her breakfast.

  Suddenly, the sound of small, hurried footsteps echoed down the hallway. Tailza appeared, slightly out of breath and clutching a broom. She froze when she saw Mina.

  Mina glanced up, her eyes narrowing. "You again? What do you want, runt?"

  Tailza hesitated, clutching the broom tightly as if it were a lifeline. "I-I just wanted to ask if you slept well," she stammered.

  Mina blinked. She quickly masked her surprise with a scowl. "Why do you care?"

  "Because…" Tailza hesitated, then took a deep breath and stepped closer. "Because I just—" She fumbled for words, her cheeks flushed. "I wanted to make sure you're okay now."

  Mina stared at Tailza, then to her plate.

  Finally, Mina scoffed and leaned back in her chair. "You've got some nerve, bringing up the past like that. But whatever. I guess I slept fine." She waved a hand dismissively. "Now go do whatever it is you do. I don't need your pity."

  Tailza's ears drooped slightly, but she nodded. "If you need anything… just let me know," she said softly before turning to leave.

  KiAera watched the exchange with a mixture of curiosity and concern. Once Tailza was out of earshot, she turned to Mina. "That was… harsh. She was just trying to be nice."

  Mina bristled. "I don't need anyone’s pity or their kindness, alright? Especially not hers."

  KiAera frowned. "It wasn't pity, Mina. It was compassion. There's a difference."

  Mina didn't respond, her gaze fixed firmly on her plate. After a long silence, she muttered, "I didn't ask for her compassion."

  KiAera sighed but decided to let the matter drop for now. "Finish your food. We've got a lot to do today."

  Mina grunted in response, focusing on her meal. But as KiAera watched her, she couldn't help but wonder if there was more to Mina's hostility than she was letting on.

  ??. .????. .????. .??

  KiAera's Exploration Squad:

  KiAera {Leader} = 3218 Units

  Oath Osseod = 5333 Units

  Viz the Nexperbax = 5119 Units

  Mina the Minokaurbo = 11210 Units

  Skadicritt the Merecritt = 5064 Units

  ??. .????. .????. .??

  KiAera dropped to her hunches as she observed the entrance to the Dareloop Dungeon. The maw of the cave oozed with that same grim feeling as last time.

  "Tsk. You want to enter a dungeon? Wait—" Mina unfolded her arms, her lips twitching as she stood over KiAera. "This is where you managed to collect those darn crystals? This trip may perhaps be worthwhile. Heh."

  Not responding, KiAera tilted her head to Oath the Big Osseod. The large creature pointed a stubby leg toward the entrance. "Oath and group head in. Search for tasty crystals!"

  Viz nodded. "Y-yeah. Just f-follow me and we'll manuever down those depths safely… I guess. I'll try my best," he lowered his head as he shared a glance with KiAera.

  Skadicritt patted the bat creature's back. "Come on, Viz! Skaditty thinks you need to be more confident in yourself! You will be a great guide!" She giggled as she stepped closer to the dungeon with a sniff. "There's plenty of foul monsters down there! Yep!"

  KiAera rose to her feet, brushing dust from her knees. The entrance to the Dareloop Dungeon yawned wide, its jagged maw cloaked in shadows and the faint glow of bio-luminescent fungi.

  "Alright we go in together, but stay alert," her thoughts flashed back to the purple furred Merecritt she encountered. "If we're lucky, we might also find new resources or even clues about this realm's mysteries."

  Mina rolled her eyes, adjusting the straps on her arm bracers. "Sure, sure. Crystals, mysteries, whatever. Just make sure it's worth my time, or I'll hold you responsible."

  KiAera glanced at Viz, who shifted uncomfortably under Mina's gaze. The bat-like monster tugged at his fur nervously, his four eyes darting between his feet and the cave. "I—I'll try. I mean, I'll definitely do my best!"

  Skadicritt hopped in place, her ears twitching with excitement. "Vizzy, you'll do great! Skaditty's got your back! I'll even take care of any meanies we meet down there. Right, KiAera?" She gave KiAera a toothy grin.

  KiAera smirked. "I'm counting on you, Skadi. And you too, Viz. Your guidance will be crucial in avoiding unnecessary risks."

  The hulking form of Oath Osseod shuffled closer, its crystal-coated body gleaming faintly. "Oath ready. Oath find many shinies."

  KiAera took a deep breath and turned to face the group. "Alright, here's the plan. Viz, you take the lead. Use your senses to map out the safest route. Oath, you're second, in case we encounter traps or collapses. Mina, you'll cover our rear, and Skadicritt, you'll flank on the left to handle any ambushes. I'll stay in the center to coordinate."

  Mina scoffed but didn't argue, while Viz gave a nervous nod. "Got it. I—I think I can manage that."

  Skadicritt bounced on her toes, practically vibrating with excitement. "Let's go, let's go! Skaditty's ready to fight!"

  With a wave of her paw, KiAera signaled for the group to move. "Stay sharp and stick together. We don't know what's waiting for us down there."

  As the squad descended into the dungeon's dark embrace, the air grew heavier, and a chilling dampness clung to their fur and scales. Strange sounds echoed through the tunnels—drips of water, distant screeches, and the faint rustle of unseen creatures.

  "Oi," Mina muttered from the rear. "This place reeks of trouble. How deep are we going, anyway?"

  KiAera glanced over her shoulder. "Deep enough to find what we’re looking for. Just keep your guard up."

  Ahead, Viz's ears perked, his body tensing as he raised a wing to signal the group to stop. "Wait… there’s something ahead."

  First, the cringeworthy screech of a squeal, eerily similar to a pig's, was heard. In the low light of KiAera's tail flame, emerged the snout of a creature that would tower even Mina in height.

  ??. .??

  Hostile Creature: Vandaquil

  Species: Vandaquil

  Sobriquet: "Thornback"

  Brief description: fledgling territorial thornback.

  Alignment: [Aggressor]

  APeX: [6110 Units]

  Attributes: [Beast]

  Evolution Stage: [Fledgling] (F)

  Current Variant Grade: [Uncommon]

  ??. .??

  The group paused as the hulking creature stepped forth, a beast with the mixed appearance of a bear and a porcupine—the Thornback.

  "CAVE MINE! INTRUDERS BEGONE!"