Bearclaw Valley asa no mori

@Drust Backdated to Oct 29th

The early dawn was calm. Silent. All the forest animals were still asleep, nestled in their dens. A frost made the autumn foliage look like it was bedazzled with white fillagree. Peach-color clouds reflected the rising sun, which was still hidden beneath the treeline.

Keiko awoke alone – but not really. Hokkyokusei-sama’s spirit was always in her heart, even as he roamed. The Miko knew that a divine forest spirit could never be contained or ordered. All of nature was their entire domain to enjoy – and this was one thing Keiko admired most about him. The grandeur. The freeness.

The young woman stretched and shook out her furs, which had thickened as an answer to winter’s call. Then, she found a nearby stream and washed the right paw, and then the left, before taking a small sip to clean the mouth. Only then, did she take a long and deep drink.

A deep breath. Satisfied. Whole. Oh, she had many plans today!