"There are beastmen sick over there," Aina said in a lowered voice. "I heard it's very serious—and contagious. I only found out today. After delivering the fruit to you, I'm planning to stay indoors for the next few days."
"Sick beastmen? What illness is that?" Nina frowned slightly.
There were no strict quarantine measures in this world, and the beastmen's awareness of contagion was limited. If it truly spread from one to another, it could quickly infect the entire tribe.
"I'm not sure," Aina sighed. "They say it starts with fever and stomach pain. Females and cubs are affected the worst." She lowered her voice further. "I even heard that a little cub didn't make it."
Her eyes were full of concern. "You have so many cubs—you must be extra careful."
"I will," Nina nodded.
Just then, urgent shouts echoed from not far away.
"They're over there!"
"Quick—don't let them run out of the tribe!"
Nina looked up.
