Apologies that this poll is a little long. I've combined two stories into one as we're a little short on time and I'd like to see the story to the end!

Once you've had your fill of magic - your eyes seeing more than it has before in its entire life in one day, you set out on your journey once more. With your pockets a little lighter and your adventure pack a little fuller, you find yourself quite satiated - at least for a little while longer.

You make way through the town center when you couldn't help but overhear cryptic whispers nearby a notice board:

"Have you heard? This is the third missing this week."
"I heard it's the tenth missing this month-"
"Could it be that it is back?"
"Lower your voice!"
"Don't be daft- saying the wrong thing can cause panic."
"But we must inform others!"

With your curiosity peaked, you asked said individuals for more information. They hesitated, one even walked off shaking their head. The ones who paid you mind noticed your gear and perhaps your demeanor, given that you're somewhat of an adventurer and hero of smaller parts.

"Well," they started. Their eyes darting from side to side, making sure no one else was listening in. "Though we cannot confirm, we've heard rumors of the ichneumon appearing once more. Its burrow lay hidden within the forest...though, it's much too dangerous for any of us to face off against it!"

You puff your chest, though you felt your heart skip a beat. An Ichneumon? They were once a dragon's mortal enemy, one bite and you're done for. No, it must be some hooligans targeting easy prey...

Days long passed since you’ve first set foot on your journey. Through trials and tribulations, you’ve found yourself here - mere steps away from the burrow. Your sensitive ears hone in on the gentle rustle of dry leaves upon the damp floor. Your sharp eyes attuned to the dark surrounding as the tree canopy blocks out what light is left. Your nostrils flare, familiar with the scent of your kind’s mortal enemy: the ichneumon. Though you've heard only tales and seen crude drawings of this creature, your instinct tell you that the townsfolk were right.

It's here.

What feels like hours were mere seconds as you await the ambush of the creature. After all, you're in its domain. One misstep and this is the end of your journey. 

Suddenly -- there it is, to your left a shadow skitters between the bundles of bushes. Too slow. Above you! Leaves and branches fall as it climbs above. It toys with you for a moment longer before a sudden pain explodes from your backside as you feel a set of claws rake across your back. Though you hiss in pain, you’re not without your own tricks: with a quick whirl, you whip the creature with your tail, and a high pitch squeal emanates as you hear a thud against the bark of the tree. The burrow falls still once more. You turn to look at the creature - huh, a juvenile ichneumon, no bigger than your palm, matted, skin and bones. It hisses and cowers against the base of a tree. With a weaponed arm raised, ready to strike -