After several hours of riding, the group finally crossed the border from the Kingdom of Ardia to Theragor, the land of beast men. The change in landscape was subtle at first, but it soon became apparent that they were in different territory. The vegetation seemed denser, the trees taller and more robust, and the air carried a different freshness.

The sun was already high when they began to see vast agricultural fields, something Miguel did not expect to find in a land inhabited by beings that many humans considered wild and primitive. As they walked along the road next to one of these fields, Miguel saw something that left him amazed and surprised.

In the fields, wild men worked diligently. There were bipedal bears, huge and powerful, moving with unexpected grace as they ploughed the land and carried large baskets of crops. Beside them, bipedal rabbits, agile and fast, tended the crops with an almost poetic dexterity. Bears used their strength for heavier tasks, while rabbits, with their delicate hands, managed plants with care and precision.

Miguel was impressed by the harmony and efficiency of the work. The beast men worked together in perfect coordination, showing an organization and sense of community that rivaled any human society he knew. He had heard stories about beast men but seeing it with his own eyes was something else entirely. Every movement, every gesture, showed an impressive symbiosis between distinct species, something he had never seen in his own land.

As they rode down the road, the curious eyes of the beast men followed them. Some stopped working for a moment to observe the group of humans passing by. Miguel noticed the variety of expressions on the faces of the beast men – curiosity, caution, and even a slight distrust. He knew they were entering uncharted territory and that they needed to be careful in how they behaved.

Miguel felt like an intruder, a silent observer of a life that continued independently of human concerns. He couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to live in a society as diverse and integrated as Theragor's. The idea that cooperation and difference were normal here contrasted sharply with the exclusivity and prejudice he had experienced at Ardia.

The soldiers around Miguel were also silent, absorbing the unusual sight and preparing for any eventuality. Ricardo looked at Miguel and noticed the fascination in his eyes, but he knew that now was not the time for arguments. Safety and focus were essential, especially in a territory where they were not welcome.

After a few more hours of travel, the road began to open, revealing a walled city on the horizon. The view of the city was impressive – the walls were tall and sturdy, built with huge stones that sparkled in the sunlight. Watchtowers were stationed at regular intervals, and Miguel could see sentry beast men diligently patrolling the walls.

The city appeared to be a center of activity and commerce, with several structures visible above the walls. The architecture was unlike anything Miguel had seen – a mix of practicality and beauty, with towers that seemed to rise in elegant spirals and bridges that connected various parts of the city in a harmonious labyrinth.

The group slowed the horses as they approached the entrance to the city. Miguel felt a wave of apprehension mixed with excitement. They were about to enter a place where few humans in search of friendly relations had gone before, and the mission that had brought them there was of utmost importance. They needed to ensure the success of the negotiations to save the barony of Drakmoor from starvation.

The curious and wary eyes of the beastmen followed their every move, but no one made any hostile move. Miguel knew that he would need all his diplomatic skill and the support of Richard and the soldiers to navigate the delicate situation that was approaching.

As the city approached, Miguel reflected on the incredible diversity of this world and the magic he had witnessed. This land was an enigma, a mixture of wonder and danger, quite different from his old world on earth, now all these events were more of a confirmation that this world is real, and he is part of it now, not like Luiz, but like Miguel. He mentally prepared himself for what was to come, determined to do everything in his power to ensure a better future for his people and to build bridges of understanding between the two peoples.

***

As the group approached the imposing city gates, the air was charged with tension. Miguel, Ricardo, and the soldiers kept a firm but careful step, their minds heavy with the uncertainty of what they would find. The sound of horses' shoes echoed ominously in the silence that preceded the approach.

When they were about a hundred yards from the gate, it began to slowly close with a loud, menacing creak. Not before, however, fifty well-armed guards came out, positioning themselves in defensive formation. The spears gleamed in the sunlight, and the bows were ready to be fired. Miguel's group stopped, keeping a respectful distance.

One of the guards, a bipedal leopard with a golden coat and black spots, advanced a few steps forward. His sharp eyes scrutinized each member of the group suspiciously.

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"What do you want?" asked the guard, his voice deep and authoritative.

Miguel took a deep breath, remembering Thomas' words and Ricardo's advice. He stepped forward, keeping his hands visible and his tone of voice calm.

"We came in peace and sought to do business," said Miguel, trying to convey security and sincerity.

The leopard narrowed his eyes, clearly suspicious. Before he could answer, Ricardo advanced a little, displaying an expression that mixed authority and diplomacy.

"We understand that our arrival may be unexpected and even unwanted. But we are desperate to help our people. If we can talk to someone in a position of authority, we believe we can find a solution that benefits both sides," said Ricardo, his words full of sincerity and urgency.

The guards murmured among themselves, some more suspicious than others. The leopard kept his gaze fixed on Miguel and Ricardo, pondering his words.

"Wait here," he said finally, signaling to the nearest guards.

As the leopard walked away, a tense silence settled. Miguel could feel the curious and skeptical looks of the guards, and he himself couldn't help but feel a little unsure. He exchanged a glance with Ricardo, who gave him a slight nod, a gesture of silent support.

A brief time later, a different figure appeared. A bipedal pig, dressed in a cloak that gave him the appearance of a priest, approached. His small, cunning eyes watched each member of the group intently.

"I am Brother Boromir," he said, his voice surprisingly soft and thoughtful. "I have been informed of his arrival and intentions. Let's talk about these things you talk about, but before you go in, leave your weapons with the guards, they will be returned as soon as you leave."

As Miguel, Ricardo, Lila, and the soldiers were escorted through the city, the tension was almost palpable. The guards surrounded them, keeping a watchful eye as they guided the group through the narrow, busy streets. The architecture of the city was impressive, but the heavy atmosphere meant that any appreciation was overshadowed by concern.

Soon after entering, the guards had ordered them to leave all their weapons at the entrance. Miguel had reluctantly agreed, knowing that it was a sign of confidence they needed to show. However, the loss of their weapons left everyone feeling vulnerable.

Ricardo approached Miguel, his expression showing frustration and discomfort. "I don't like that, my lord. Leave our weapons with them... We are totally at their mercy now."

Miguel nodded, perfectly understanding Ricardo's concern. "I know, Ricardo. But we need to demonstrate our goodwill. It is a calculated risk. We need to trust that they also want a peaceful negotiation."

The surrounding soldiers murmured among themselves, clearly unsafe without their weapons. Miguel could see the uncertainty in his eyes and felt the weight of responsibility for his safety. He needed to stay calm and show confidence.

"Listen, everyone," said Miguel, trying to keep his voice steady and reassuring. "We are here on a peacekeeping mission. Laying down our weapons was a gesture of good faith. We need to trust that they will respect that. Be careful, but don't provoke any conflict."

While Miguel was trying to comfort his companions, the priest, Brother Boromir, who was walking ahead, turned, and listened to the conversation. His cunning eyes shone with a quiet understanding.

"We will not harm any of you," said Brother Boromir, his voice soft but firm. "Unless you do harm to the inhabitants of this city. Here, we value peace and coexistence. You are under our protection, as long as you respect our rules."

Miguel met the priest's eyes, trying to gauge the sincerity in his words. He saw a mixture of authority and compassion in Boromir's eyes, which gave him a spark of hope.

"We thank you for your hospitality and protection, Brother Boromir," said Miguel, bowing his head in a gesture of respect. "We are here to negotiate in good faith and seek a solution that benefits both of us."

Boromir nodded, a faint smile crossing his lips. "So, let's move on."

As they continued to walk through the city, Miguel watched the inhabitants. Beast men of various shapes and sizes worked, talked and lived their lives. The diversity was impressive, and Miguel felt a growing admiration for this unique society. However, caution remained, knowing that any mistake could be fatal.

The group was taken to a large building in the center of the city, which was a type of meeting hall or temple. The walls were adorned with intricate designs and symbols, and the atmosphere inside was solemn and respectful.

"Please come in," Boromir said, gesturing for the group to follow. "We will discuss their needs and see how we can help."

Inside the hall, Brother Boromir gestured for the group to take seats. Miguel sat down obediently, but Richard and the soldiers remained standing, keeping alert. Lila, the rescued girl, stood by Ricardo's side, holding his hand tightly for safety.

Boromir, noticing the tension in the air, offered a comforting smile. "Please feel at ease. You are safe here."

Miguel tried to relax, but the situation was still tense. "We thank you for your hospitality, Brother Boromir."

The priest nodded, his expression serious but welcoming. "Before we begin our meeting, I must inform you that I am part of the elected council of this city. In order that we may discuss their needs fairly and thoroughly, I will call upon the other members of the council to attend this meeting."

Miguel was impressed. A democracy, even a primitive one, among wild men was something he did not expect. In his homeland, leadership was often determined by birth and power, and to see a form of government where leaders were elected was remarkable.

"Have you an elected council?" asked Miguel, surprise evident in his voice.

"Yes," Boromir replied with a smile. "Our community values everyone's voice. We make important decisions together, to ensure that all aspects of our society are represented."

As Boromir retired to call the other members of the council, Miguel looked at Ricardo, sharing a look of fascination and respect. It was clear that these beast men had a complex and well-organized society, something that humans could learn to appreciate.

The soldiers remained in their positions, visibly tense, but Miguel noticed a slight relaxation in the postures of some of them. Lila squeezed Richard's hand tightly, but her expression was a little calmer, relieved by the protective presence of Ricardo and Miguel.

The hall was silent, except for the occasional murmur of curiosity from the inhabitants passing by outside. Miguel looked around, noting the intricate decorations on the walls, which told ancient stories of the beast man community. The atmosphere was solemn, but also inspiring.

As they awaited Boromir's return with the other members of the council, Miguel reflected on what lay ahead. This meeting could be crucial to the survival of the Barony of Drakmoor, and he was determined to do what he could to ensure the success of the negotiations.

With the tension in the air beginning to ease slightly, the group mentally prepared for what was to come. They knew that they needed to be ready to present their arguments clearly and persuasively, and that cooperation with the beast men could be the key to overcoming the crisis they faced.

And so, everyone waited patiently, anticipation growing as they waited for the council members to arrive.