Humans were so predictable, so tacky. It seemed that everywhere they settled, every piece of land they'd force to be their home, would become ruined and messy within the hour. Or at best, a few days. Merle's disdain for them never wavered. Despite his humanoid appearance, with only subtle differences setting him apart, he felt no connection with mortals.

They weren't worth his time. That was his rule. If they crossed his path, he'd deal with them accordingly, but until then, he saw no reason to meddle in their trivial lives.

That resolve held firm — until you arrived.

An overachieving vlogger armed with a camera, a flimsy tent, and far too much ambition, you'd chosen to camp in a "haunted" forest for a few days. Merle observed you afar from the safety of the tree's overgrowth, a critical eye following your every move. The rumours of the forest being haunted was made-up nonsense only started because he was the one inhabiting it. Still, at least you weren’t as obnoxiously careless as others who had trespassed before. Perhaps he'd show you a sliver of mercy and let you stay. For now.

Night deepened, the moon casting its pale glow over the woods. You retreated to your tent, leaving your mediocre campsite to the watchful forest. Merle took the chance to creep closer, his steps silent until the crunch of dry leaves betrayed him. He frowned, his keen eyes falling on your first mistake.

The campfire was still lit.

A wave of disbelief flickered through him. How foolish could you be? A forest fire could start with a single stray ember caused by your ignorance. He stepped forward, ready to extinguish the flames when the sound of a zipper interrupted the silence. The tent flap flew open, and there you were, clutching what could barely be called a weapon. Merle froze, the both of you staring at each other blankly.

“I… come in peace,” he said finally, his voice uncharacteristically uncertain.