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XX, XX/XX/XXXX | noon |

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Waiting for them to leave might not be the best decision after all. The Duram he observed were still grazing for eternity as if it was their last day on this world, whatever this world was called.

Thanks to them taking their fucking time grazing, he was forced to eat one ration instead of the freshly cooked meat. Since he had no time to test the inventory's features, he didn't know whether it had freshness preservation. Hunting the two-horned wolves? Ha! Why would he if he lacked information about them?

Moments ago he got attacked for letting his guard down. It was miracle that he somehow fooled the lizard, but it wouldn't happen the second time! To attack enemies, he must know both side's strength.

Ivan took a sip from his water skin. Like a hawk, his eyes never left their target.

Damn it, just leave already! Ivan groaned, feeling annoyed laying prone and watching some dumb cows eating grass.

To him, time was as valuable as precious metals. Time dictated his destiny, his life and death. Not being able to locate a safe spot before sunset spelt doom.

Finally!

A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

The herds of Duram slowly returned to the forest. The thumps of their footsteps were heavy and powerful just like a steel forging machine, and they headed for his direction. The ground underneath him trembled as they plodded past him. The adults clearly were aware of his whereabouts, but decided to ignore him.

Ivan couldn't stop shaking. His heartbeat was uncontrollable and his breathing shallow. The thunderous footsteps passed him and disappeared into the forest for the reason unknown. When the sounds disappeared completely, he found the courage to move his body. He was powerless under their powerful gaze, like an insect caught in a spiderweb.

Slowly he stood and walked towards the specific location in his doodle. The tall grass felt nice to his hands and the serene green colour radiated peace. This place was a haven in this hellish forest.

Far in the distance he saw another Duram herds returning to the forest, but beyond that he could see nothing but jungle and mountain range.

This looks like the place.

He remembered one of the Duram eating something over here. Crouching, he groped around among the tall grass to find... a plant with two wide leaves.

What is this? Is this edible?

It had no particularly strong smell and looked normal, just like any other leaf on a tree.

All of a sudden everything clicked.

The Duram survived on this plants and they willfully walked a long distance to consume this. This, whatever this plant was, depended on sunlight to grow as opposed to mushrooms that did not need light to grow.

Alright! With this I can tame them.

Ivan gathered more and reluctantly returned to the forest, whilst being haunted by a nagging thought.

Why would they travel so far and then come back to the forest?