The sun filtered through the dense canopy of trees, casting dappled patterns of light across the soft mossy ground. Louis, the ever-loyal mole-hog, trailed after Peaches as they wandered through the lush forest. She was busy marveling at a patch of wildflowers.

“Isn’t this place amazing, Louis?” Peaches said, her trunk gently brushing a cluster of blossoms.

“Yeah, amazing,” Louis replied, though his focus was elsewhere. His small eyes darted to a nearby bush laden with berries. “Uh, hey, Peaches? I’ll just… be over there. Foraging. You know, just in case you get hungry later!”

Peaches waved him off with a laugh. “Go for it, berry boy.”

As Louis scurried toward the bush, his nose twitching with excitement, he dove into the underbrush. He meticulously picked through the bright red berries, his small paws quick and careful. But just as he was stuffing a few into his makeshift pouch, something caught his attention—a soft rustle in the bushes nearby.

“Probably just a bird,” he muttered. Then, the rustling grew louder.

Louis froze, clutching a berry in his paw, as a figure stepped into view.

He blinked, his jaw dropping.

Before him stood a mammal unlike any he’d ever seen. Their fur shimmered faintly in the morning light, sleek and glossy in a way that seemed almost otherworldly. Their eyes, bright and curious, scanned the area with a calm confidence. Louis felt rooted to the spot, unable to tear his gaze away.

They turned and caught sight of him, tilting their head with a warm, curious smile.

“Uh… hi,” Louis squeaked, his voice barely audible.