The morning sun cast a soft golden throughout the cave as Aejjia carefully placed the Turqfrost Blossoms back into the basket. The delicate flowers seemed to sparkle with an icy glimmer, perfectly complementing the winter wonderland that awaited them outside. Clov, the adorable little bunny, hopped over to assist, her agile paws leaving tiny prints in the pristine snow as she gently guided the last of the blossoms into place. Despite the heaviness in Aejjia's heart, she couldn't help but adore the cute small creature.
"Good job, Clov," Aejjia said with a smile. "We need to make sure these precious blossoms stay safe."
Clov, her fluffy tail twitching with curiosity, asked through JJael, "Why did you pick the Turqfrost Blossoms?"
"Well," she explained, "these blossoms are a valuable ingredient in many vital medicines used by the village's doctor. They have important medicinal properties, and I thought I could sell them to him."
Clov's eyes widened with curiosity. She wished to ask more questions, but sensed that her young friend wished not to talk about it anymore. Aejjia picked up Clov and carefully placed her next to the flowers. Clov snuggled into the fragrant bouquet, making sure not to distrube the delicate flowers.
Seeing that the young girl had finished her task, JJael encouraged Aejjia to climb onto his back. He lowered himself to make it easier for her. Handing the tiger her basket, she climbed on his back, followed by Embia, who buried herself in the child's cloak to provided her warmth as they set off on their journey.
As they made their way towards the village, the snow-covered trees stood tall like sentinels, their branches weighed down by the heavy white blankets. The forest seemed hushed and serene, as if nature itself held its breath in reverence of the frozen beauty.But the beauty was interuppted by a rustling in near-by bushes.
A wolf emmerged, growling as it took cautious steps forward. A fierce glare from JJael caused it to stop in its tracks. Remembering the events of the night before, the wolf put its ears back with a whimper and crouched submissively. As the group passed the wolf, it turned and ran off deeper into the forest.
The sight of the wolf sent a shiver down Aejjia's spine. She was glad that JJael's imposing presence was enough to make the wolf retreat.
The enchanting forest seemed livelier than ever, despite the winter's icy grip. Aejjia pointed out the busy squirrels, their fluffy tails leaving trails in the snow as they darted between the snow-covered trees. She marveled at the graceful dance of the snowflakes that gently fell from the sky, catching the light like twinkling stars.
Clov listened intently to Aejjia's chatter and observed the beauty around them, her furry ears twitching with delight. She asked Aejjia through JJael about other plants in the forest, and Aejjia happily shared her knowledge.
As they continued their journey, Aejjia's heart found solace in the peaceful surroundings and the companionship of the animals. The conversations and laughter filled the winter air, momentarily lifting the weight from Aejjia's heart.
Soon, they arrived at the edge of the village, the snow-covered houses and quiet streets coming into view. JJael paused, turning his gaze towards Aejjia, his frosty fur blending seamlessly with the winter landscape. "Where to?" he asked softly, his words gently echoing in her head.
After a long pause, Aejjia answered quietly, "The Baron's manor."
In the enchanting mountain forest of the Frosttail Tigers, a young Frosttail Tiger named JJael forms an extraordinary bond with a lost and frightened girl named Aejjia. Together, they navigate the harsh realities of an opulent but cruel lord's mansion, where Aejjia serves as a servant and struggles to find acceptance as the lord's illegitimate daughter.
cover art and thumbnail by PHPGroup. Link: https://www.deviantart.com/phpgroup
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