Submission (#4402) Approved

Fahren had walked into Faerindell right amidst the harvest season this year. It was not her first time here, but it had been awhile. The fiery elnin had spent her early years of adventuring in this colourful region, after which her coat had taken on a glimmering sheen. It felt like her body was welcoming the familiar feeling, and her fur sparkled brightly. 

Nostalgia guiding her, Fahren travelled towards the sakura Eldertree which the city of Elenion was nestled under. She knew a certain Fae friend would be in town and figured a visit was long overdue. Knowing that Wisp would have almost certainly prepared something for the festive occasion, she figured the Faenin would appreciate an extra hand on board more than any gift she could find right now. 

As she continued on her trek, Fahren couldn’t help but notice a small set of ears tailing behind her. Everytime she turned her head to see if anyone was there, the path would be empty and a faint rustle of leaves could be heard. When the mysterious pair of ears returned this time, she whipped her head around quickly and heard a loud thump. Her little follower had tripped while trying to hide and was now lying on the ground with their head ducked. It was a small striped kittom with fiercely green eyes who was glaring at the ground as if it had wronged him. 

“Hey, are you okay?” 

Fahren tilted her head in concern but the kittom stayed silent. He continued his staring contest, as if waiting for Fahren to turn away. 

“You know… if you want to follow me you can just walk by my side. I’m trying to get to the city. Where are you going?”

“...”

Not caring for a reply, Fahren continued to speak to herself.

“Well you were certainly headed somewhere if you kept following me. I’m going to the city to meet a friend. There will be loooooots of yummy food and fun activities. She’s a Faenin, ever met one?”

His ears perked up at the words “food” and “Faenin.” Fahren grinned and started walking again. This time the little kittom followed beside her, borrowing her shadow for shade.

“Do you have a name?”

The little tiger didn’t answer.

“Okaaayyyy… well if you’re not gonna say anything I’ll just give you a nickname. How about Scout?”

“...”

Taking his silence as agreement, the two continued on their journey. The weather was always pleasant in Faerindell, allowing flowers to bloom year round. Sakura trees lined the horizon in the distance, and flower petals whirled through the sky like a fragrant snowfall. They walked past many farmsteads, each boasting their bountiful crops. The farmers were friendly and prideful, each offering a share of their harvest to the passing travellers. By the time they made it to the capital, Fahren had a full cart of fresh produce with her which kittom sat on top of. One of the farmers had graciously given it to her after seeing she could barely carry everything on her back. “Scout” was more than ecstatic about not having to walk anymore. 

“Hmm… if I remember correctly her house should be this one.”

Fahren rang the doorbell loudly and waited nervously as the door creaked open. A small face peaked out, slitted doe eyes giving away the nin’s Fae origins. The faenin’s eyes widened upon recognition and she swung the door open.

“Fahren! Is it really you?”

“Yes! And I brought a little friend with me. And some food. Uncooked. I hope that’s okay.” 

The kittom peaked at Wisp from atop the pile of produce. Wisp giggled and motioned for them to come in. 

“That’s more than okay! Let’s get cooking~”