Not long ago, an uninvited guest arrived at the Elda Territory.
It was a giant squirrel, half-human tall, with pure white fur, looking extremely cute.
Its fur wasn't snow white but a creamy white with a hint of warmth, shimmering with a gentle luster under the rising morning sun.
What was most astonishing were its eyes, like two meticulously polished obsidian stones, deep and clear, lacking any trace of ignorance and fierceness typical of wild beasts.
It sat squatting at the gate of the territory with an elegance akin to a noble, its front paws gently clasped together.
This peculiar squirrel called itself the "Holy Tree Guardian" and claimed to be a friend of Lord Herbert.
Since it was the lord's friend, the guards seemed to have no reason to block its way.
But Guard Captain Sofia hesitated.
Driven by some instinct lingering in her soul, she sensed the difference in strength between herself and the seemingly adorable large squirrel before her.
