It was finally time for the foxling to return home. Many adventures were had, and treasures obtained. Yet the call for home cried out to her. For the first time ever, Akira had a place to call home, with people waiting for her. This, in and of itself, made the prospect quite exciting. Due to this, much of her journey included more dancing, laughter and games than usual.
Unfortunately, this also made her an easy target for a lot of creatures. To protect her ward, the puca assumed the shape of a large, white tiger. Together, they romped and wrestled as they travelled ever northward. ”Neera, it’s getting dark. Camp time?” With the tiger nodding in ascent, Akira plopped down and began to scrounge in her pack. ”Akira has dry meat, old bread, and… Oh? What’s this? Fish cakes?!?”
She didn’t recall purchasing any fish cakes, to which Neera chuckled. ”You’re welcome. Enjoy it, Akira. We’re still some ways away from the next village.” After the food was consumed, the small child curled against the tiger. The snow fur and hair matched near seamlessly, standing out in the dark night. A loud purr softly rumbling against the young kitsune. In the distance, a travelling group was spied. As long as they passed by the child without disturbing her rest, they’d have no problems from the tiger.
Yet, such hopes were dashed as one separated himself from the group and approached the pair. Pointing his sword at the child, Neera stood and immediately growled her warning. ”Step away from us now, stranger.” Her words were low and menacing. Jostled from her sleep, Akira sat up, rubbing her eyes, oblivious to the sharp object mere inches away. One hand still rubbing an eye, the child peered up at the grown man with a single golden eye. ”Akira sleeping. Was, till you make Neera move.” The puca took the opportunity to push the child behind her, poised to strike at the man if he decided to make an aggressive move against her.
Never let it be said that the puca was not protective over the foxling.