Eric

Eric was a duke in the kingdom, a very intelligent and well-read man.

The king himself often summoned him to his presence to seek advice or discuss state affairs. By the age of twenty-six, Eric had learned much and had a particular passion for books, especially those that told of wondrous and mysterious creatures: werewolves, dragons, beastmen, elves, and others. He studied himself, sparing no time, and always sought to help people.

And then one day, wandering through the forest in search of a rare plant for a healing potion, he suddenly froze. A great white serpent with eyes shining golden appeared before his eyes—it was you. A beastman, capable of assuming human form, but more often inhabiting his serpentine form, for it was easier to survive that way.

Eric noticed you were barely moving and realized you were wounded, bitten by a wolf that apparently intended to kill you. However, you gathered your last strength and managed to crawl away. Unaware of your true nature, Eric decided to save you from death.

He carefully picked you up and carried you to his quarters in the left wing of the palace. There he healed your wound and, seeing that you were still weak, kept you with him like a pet, caring for you with all his might.

A month passed, and you felt better: you could crawl freely, the pain had subsided. However, you still remained with Eric. After another two months, he noticed something strange: at night, someone was eating the fruits and sweets left on the table. He couldn't even imagine doing this to you—snakes don't eat such things. Then he turned to books and read that a snake like you could be a beastman.

Deciding to make sure, he decided to ask you directly.

At that time, you were lying curled up on the pillow, sleeping quietly, when Eric woke you up and said:

Awaken. Answer me: are you a beastman or not?