The System message hovered in Nora's vision—sterile glowing text against reality's warm canvas. Before she could even process what that 'Invite Sumi to become a part of the Harem [Y/N]?' truly meant, Sumi's arms tightened around her with desperate intensity. The foxkin's soft fur tickled Nora's cheek, carrying the wild scent of pine and something uniquely Sumi, while her breath came in shallow, excited gasps that warmed Nora's neck.

  "What the hell is this? Is it going to keep happening?" Nora exclaimed, almost dropping Sumi and rolling her eyes.

  "Yes!" Sumi's voice trembled with raw urgency, her golden eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I don't want to lose you again… I couldn't stand not knowing where you were."

  Nora turned to face Sumi, her brow furrowed. "So, you understand what's happening? How did it manifest to you? Did you get a message or what?"

  "Message? No…" said Sumi, a bit unnerved. "I just felt this intense desire to be united with you. And a sensation of the System offering me to be one with you."

  Her expression was now dreamy as Sumi brushed her cheek against Nora's shoulder.

  The ginger-headed woman gently set Sumi back on the ground and muttered under her breath, "We need to talk about this," Nora said. "It's not a spur-of-the-moment decision."

  Nora shifted her gaze toward the shadowy figure that stood a few steps away and had not yet said a word. "And you too, Guardian. You also have to explain… things…"

  ***

  Sumi and the Guardian settled into the wooden chairs that belonged to Nora and Lucan at the dining table. The Guardian's form rippled and flowed like oil on water, darkness folding into itself as their towering silhouette compressed with unsettling fluidity to fit the cabin's modest dimensions. Even in this diminished state, power radiated from them in waves that made the wooden walls creak and the flames in the hearth dance nervously. The air itself grew heavy, as if gravity had suddenly doubled its pull wherever their presence touched. And then, seemingly defying all laws of physics, they further condensed their form to fit behind the modest table.

  Nora and Lucan moved briskly around the cozy space, steam rising as they poured boiling water into teapots and carefully set mugs with steaming liquid on the table. As Lukan leaned forward to place the Guardian's cup before them, a strange play of shadow cast both their profiles against the far wall. Or was is just steam from the cup playing in the sun? The moment passed as soon as Lukan straightened. The comforting aroma of chamomile and fresh mint lingered in the air, curling through the small cabin. However, even the warmth from the hearth couldn't fully dissipate the anticipation lingering in the room.

  "So," Lukan stage-whispered, his ears twitching with barely contained amusement, "looks like we've cracked another mystery wide open. Behold—your destined mate!" He swept his arm in a mock-ceremonial gesture toward Sumi. "May the Goddess of Love shower her blessings upon this most fortuitous union!"

  He wasn't able to finish as Nora's face darkened, and she punched him. "Not. Funny."

  With a thoughtful expression, the Guardian finally decided to speak up. "Nora," they began, their deep voice carrying a sense of gravity and wisdom, "I am relieved to see that you have successfully passed through the trials. And I commend you for taking the time to consider and reason through your decisions. These challenges are not just mere tests but opportunities for self-discovery and growth. They reveal much about who you are as a person and the skills you possess."

  The Guardian paused before continuing, "As I mentioned before, I cannot divulge too many details about the Goddess' of Love plans. But it should be obvious that no plan crafted by higher beings is ever as simple as it may appear on the surface."

  "What could the Goddess possibly want from me?" Nora's voice cracked under the weight of frustration. "Unite the world with Love? Sounds like something out of a bad motivational speech. How am I supposed to do that when I don't even know where to begin?"

  "The Guardian's face shifted like clouds before a storm, shadows playing across features that seemed both ancient and ageless. "My lips are sealed, I'm afraid," they finally said, voice resonating with the weight of cosmic secrets.

  Nora's shoulders slumped. "Not even a hint?" she pressed, that part of her that had always hated unsolved puzzles refusing to yield.

  The Guardian's eyes flickered with something that might have been sympathy—or perhaps warning. "The threads of fate are delicate things," they murmured, their voice dropping so low Nora had to lean forward to catch it. "Some, once pulled, unravel entire tapestries. Others, when snapped, set universes adrift." Their form seemed to momentarily dissolve at the edges. "I've already tugged more strings than wisdom permits."

  They paused before continuing, "All I can say is that as you embark on your journey through this world, your path will reveal itself in time. I don't have any doubts about that. However, I am glad to see how you approached the trials. If you continue with the same balanced approach, there still may be some hope…"

  "Hope for what?" asked Nora.

  The Guardian mimed zipping their mouth. "I've already said more than I should. Explore your skills. Work hard," they looked at Sumi, paused momentarily, and then shifted their gaze toward Lukan. "Cherish and cultivate your… connections."

  Nora's gaze followed the Guardian's, but then her eyes settled on Sumi. "So, connections…" she muttered. "How are you, my dear? Are you feeling ready to merge with me in pure ecstasy?"

  Sumi paused, setting down her cup of fragrant herbal tea and meeting Nora's gaze. "Are you serious? You would accept me as your mate?"

  Nora smiled softly, her eyes sparkling with affection. "I truly wish to," she said. "We have something special between us, my dear Sumi. But after all that we've just been through, I believe it would be wise for us to take a moment to reflect and process everything. Would that be agreeable to you? Would you be happy with a short pause before taking the next step? I'm sure we'll find a lot things to do together in the meanwhile."

  "Well, yes…" Sumi looked away, visibly slouching. She pushed her mug of tea away. "Not that I can make you."

  The Guardian let out a deep, hearty chuckle. "Good! A measured approach is the key," they boomed. "Let's leave this forgotten place behind and be on our way. Chop-chop!"

  Reality folded without warning. One moment they were seated at the wooden table—the next, the cabin dissolved in a silent explosion of soft light that washed over Nora's skin like warm water. Her stomach lurched, and suddenly they stood beneath a cathedral of ancient trees, their massive trunks stretching skyward like nature's pillars. Honeyed sunlight spilled through gaps in the emerald canopy, painting their skin with dappled gold and throwing intricate shadows across the springy moss that cushioned their feet. A breeze whispered past, carrying the sharp tang of pine sap, wildflowers, and the earthy perfume of soil teeming with life.

  It was peaceful. Just a bit too peaceful after the chaos of the trials. And nothing reminded of the presence of the Guardian or the trials that Nora and Lukan had to brave through besides the changes deep within these three people.

  "But wait!" gasped Nora, her eyes widening in realization. "I forgot Sumi's blanket!"

  "Don't worry, I got you!" said Lukan, taking out the blanket from his backpack.

  ***

  As the orange sun dipped lower in the sky, its warm glow bathed the forest in a golden hue, casting long, dancing shadows through the tall trees. The trio exchanged knowing glances and silently agreed to set up camp for the night, postponing making any decisions until the morning light.

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  Lukan walked around the clearing, measuring distances, touching trees, and placing markers in different places. He was practically bouncing with excitement, eager to demonstrate his newly acquired magical talents. The thrill of uncertainty buzzed through him as he was yet to start exploring the extent of his power. He had to figure out everything by the feel. And one of the first things he decided to try was to do what he was taught. But involving magic.

  Standing in the center of the clearing, Lukan rubbed his palms together, a grin spreading across his face. "All right, folks," he declared, glancing around at his companions, "what do we need to make sure we spend tonight in comfort?"

  Not even waiting for a response, he took out his axe and prepared all the materials. Lukan moved with astonishing swiftness, not stopping for a second until he gathered everything that was needed.

  "Is that how you feel when your strength skill kicks in?" he asked Nora. "I feel like I can lift up a whole house with my bare hands."

  Nora and Sumi only looked at each other and giggled, but their amusement quickly transformed to wonder as Lukan set to work in earnest. They found themselves stepping back, giving him space as his movements flowed with supernatural grace.

  Lukan's axe became a silver blur, each stroke finding its mark with uncanny precision. Chips of wood exploded outward in golden arcs that caught the sunlight. Where his fingers brushed against wood, branches seemed to bend willingly, twisting and intertwining of their own accord.

  He'd pause occasionally, head tilted as if listening to instructions only he could hear before his hands would dart out in quick, decisive movements. The trees themselves appeared to offer their limbs, bending at impossible angles before snapping into place with soft sighs of contentment. Under his touch, dead wood awakened, gaps sealed themselves, and the emerging shelter pulsed with an energy that made the air around it shimmer like heat rising from summer stone.

  The weather was pleasantly warm, with no clouds to hide the bright moon. They didn't need much to spend this night in the wild—just a shelter to protect them from the soft breeze and the morning sun's light.

  "Not bad for an apprentice," Nora said, checking out the structure. "You know we don't plan to stay here for longer than one night?"

  Lukan grinned, his ears twitching. "I'll take that as a compliment, coming from someone who just learned that magic existed! And, yes, I know that, of course. I just… I had this burning urge to try… To experiment!"

  "And what do you think of your new abilities?"

  "I… I love it!" Lukan exclaimed. "I want more! I need… a project!"

  Nora laughed, the sound light and musical in the evening air. "Fair point. Thanks doing this for us, Lukan," she said. "As for the project… Maybe we'll find something for you. What do you think, Sumi?"

  Sumi curled her fluffy tail around Nora's leg as they sat close together. "Oh, I'm sure we will," she said with a sly grin, "You know, Nora, you looked pretty cute back there, all stern and serious with the Guardian."

  Nora's cheeks flushed with a tinge of pink, and she nudged Sumi. "Oh, stop it. You're the one who looks cute all the time."

  Sumi's eyes sparkled mischievously. "Well, if you're going to flatter me, at least make it more convincing."

  "You two are something else," said Lukan. "Get a room! Oh, wait... you can't!"

  ***

  As the first rays of sunlight peeked through the trees, Nora, Sumi, and Lukan sat around the crackling fire in their makeshift forest camp. The smell of pine and smoke filled the air as they discussed their next move.

  "So, you need to make a decision," Nora said, looking intently at Lukan and Sumi. "Are you going to stay with me or are we splitting now."

  "Don't look at me!" exclaimed Sumi. "I'm not going anywhere without you!"

  "I'd join you, if you'd have me," said Lukan, making long pauses between the words. "I owe you. Without you I'd never become an Apprentice, I'd never get my magical skills. If that's fine with you, I'd join you and see where this adventure leads us. Gods or no gods, that doesn't matter to me."

  "Good, I'm glad to hear that," Nora leaned forward, her brow furrowed in concentration. "As you know, I'm new to this world. I don't know how the things work. And now, as it seems, I have two perfect guides for my quest!"

  Sumi purred in delight, softly touching Nora's arm. Lukan sat a bit further away, patiently waiting for more information.

  "We need to find a location to establish our base," Nora said, gesturing with her hand. "Somewhere secure but also easily accessible for potential allies. If there are any allies to gain. Are there?"

  "This is a peaceful land," Sumi said. "If you help people, you'll gain friends and connections. And, as a matter of fact, I know just the perfect place for us to settle. It's a hidden glade, not too far from my ancestral region, surrounded by towering trees and natural barriers."

  "How far is it?" asked Nora.

  "It's close enough to a few smaller settlements where we can find allies and trade partners, but remote enough to stay hidden from those who might oppose us." A sense of excitement filled Sumi's voice as she described the peaceful sanctuary that could serve as their refuge. "And we can get there pretty soon if we pack fast."

  "That sounds perfect," Lukan agreed. "But we need more than just a location. What about supplies, shelter, all that stuff? Also, do we need to think about how to attract and welcome people who might want to join us?"

  "Let's take it one step at a time," Nora said, her mind already racing with ideas. "First and foremost, we must scout the glade thoroughly, taking note of its potential for our cause. Then, it would be wise to create a comprehensive list of resources we will need to gather. However, we must also be discreet in spreading word about our plans."

  She paused, giving everything a thought. "Luckily, the three of us seem to possess at least some of the skills necessary for this undertaking," "I'll handle the planning and strategy, while Sumi's knowledge of the area and her attunement to nature will prove invaluable. And Lukan, with his skilled hands, or should I say that they are doubly skilled now, will construct a sturdy home for us to call our own. What say you to this plan?"

  Sumi stood, her tail swishing with excitement. "I love it! A home! What a dream! I'll lead the way. It's not far, and we can get there before the evening if we start right now. Let's go!"

  But then she halted mid-step, her earlier confidence evaporating like morning dew. Sumi's tail, usually a barometer of her boundless energy, hung unnaturally still as she took a hesitant step toward Nora. The foxkin's golden eyes, normally dancing with mischief, now shimmered with vulnerability that made Nora's heart clench.

  "And when we arrive..." Sumi began, her voice dropping to a whisper so fragile it might shatter if touched. Her fingers twisted nervously in the fabric of her clothing, claws catching on threads. "Will you..." She swallowed visibly, ears flattening against her head. "Will I become yours, Nora? Will you claim me as your mate?" The final words rushed out in a breathless tumble: "Allow me to join your harem?"

  ***

  With their new goal set, the trio set off into the forest, following Sumi's lead with careful steps. The journey was quiet, their footsteps muffled by the thick carpet of fallen leaves and moss, each of them absorbed in thoughts about the mission ahead.

  Nora surveyed her surroundings with wide, curious eyes. The towering trees and the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy reminded her of the Natural Reserve she loved to explore back home. Yet, everything here seemed softer, as if the very air was imbued with a gentle, warm magic.

  Thoughts of home ambushed Nora without warning—not the abstract concept but a visceral assault of memory. Her father's baritone laugh over Sunday morning coffee. Her mother's reading glasses perpetually perched atop her head, never where they belonged. The faded coffee stain on their kitchen counter that nobody had ever properly cleaned. These fragments clawed at Nora's consciousness with the precision of surgeon's tools, carving hollows where certainty had been.

  Were they searching still? Had they found her abandoned hiking gear, her last footprints disappearing into unremarkable forest? Did they wake each morning with that first, blessed millisecond of forgetting before remembrance crushed them anew? The weight of their imagined grief pressed against her sternum until each breath became deliberate labor.

  As these thoughts swirled in her mind, she stumbled over a twisted tree root protruding from the ground. Despite the enchanting warmth of this world, she couldn't shake the awareness that her absence had likely caused her family great pain. Would she ever find a way back to them to see their faces again?

  The answer to that question likely lay in expanding her magical abilities and training. Perhaps the Goddess of Love, who had marked Nora as her Chosen One, would offer guidance and assistance once her mission was accomplished. Even if it was she, the Goddess, who stole Nora from her ordinary life.

  They crested a gentle rise just as the midday sun reached its zenith, and suddenly the forest parted like a theater curtain drawn back to reveal its masterpiece. Sumi froze mid-step, her outstretched arm halting them as surely as a physical barrier.

  "There," she breathed, reverence transforming her voice.

  Before them stretched a perfect circle of land cradled in the embrace of ancient trees whose massive trunks stood shoulder-to-shoulder like silent guardians. Their uppermost branches reached toward each other across the open space, creating a natural dome that allowed sunlight to pour through in golden shafts. A crystalline stream bisected the glade, its waters catching the light and fracturing it into diamond sparkles as it tumbled over smooth, moss-covered stones.

  Wildflowers in shades of violet, yellow and white carpeted the edges of the clearing, their sweet perfume mingling with the rich loam of forest soil and the sharp tang of pine. The very air seemed different here—clearer somehow, as if time itself moved more gently within this hidden pocket of wilderness.

  "This is it," Sumi said, her voice hopeful. She was almost jumping on the spot, barely containing her energy and feelings. "Is that…? Is that good enough to be our starting point?"

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