A warming orange Sun began to set. Its red color indicated it was nearing its lifespan. Twilight crept upon the already darkened canopy, enveloping a rich bed of foliage which just recently began to harbor new life. Small, freshly built hovels littered the edge of the forest. Within one of these semi subterranean structures, two shadowy and oblong figures huddled near one another. Their weak sight allowed for a strengthened sense of smell, which let them find each other in the increasing darkness.

“Lord Shrewington, have you given thought to the council’s most recent decision?” The figure that spoke moved sporadically, unsure of its actions.

“Since the end of the war, I have paid little attention to the council’s actions. They have shown how little our concerns mean to them. I have no doubt they will continue their dirty plans. Their stubbornness will be their downfall. I am nearing the end of my time here, Jarvis … ”

Shrewington was average in appearance for his kind. What made him unique though, besides his dapper way of dress and nose for the finer things in life, was a worldliness that seemed to cause more trouble than good. He had been beyond the forest, and had seen the spectrum of suffering and life wrought by nature. His tiny beady eyes lifted upward from a half-finished termite.

“Our concerns? Surely you must be mistaken my old friend. They were nothing but a nuisance. They drove us from our homes! I for one am glad we are finally able to claim what is rightfully ours.” Jarvis became more rigid in his speech, thoughts of victory and glory he share in only name began to flood his mind with pride. He gained a sense of self in the defeat of others.

Jarvis, now inspired, continued “We owe them nothing! They treated us like a common rodent! We’re not mice! Don’t even get me started on those vile vermin”

“Yes, yes…” Shrewington muttered, “but do you not realize that we have become the same monsters?”

To Be Continued…