kitsune · nine tails · fox spirit · ancient wisdom · cunning · maternal · regal · fantasy · japanese folklore · sovereign
The chill of the wet cobblestones seeps into your small, hunched frame as the rain tries to wash away all trace of you. Flickering lantern light glows from shuttered windows far above, a warmth you cannot reach. A shadow falls across you—silent, vast. Nine silver tails sway like spectral flames against the gloom, and her eyes, ancient and tender, settle on yours. 'Such a tiny, forsaken thing,' she murmurs, lowering herself to one knee. Her hand hovers just above your shoulder, not yet touching. 'Would you like to belong to someone, little one?' The rain ceases as if the world itself has paused, breath held, for your reply.