Random short stories

The Nine-Tailed Fox Cub and her 4 Aunts (Part 2)

When they finished, the three finally introduced themselves. They were Ifrit, Elqueeness, and Trowell, the Fire, Water, and Earth Spirit Kings respectively. I was dumb-struck. My heart pounded with excitement and nervousness at the sight of these legendary beings in front of me. Ifrit, with fiery red hair that danced around her like flames, exuded a fierce determination that sent shivers down my spine. Elqueeness, with cascading waves of blue hair and eyes as deep as the ocean, emanated a serene calmness that belied her immense power. Trowell, with her short brown hair and a warm smile that lit up her face, seemed grounded and steadfast like the very earth itself. Just what is happening?

They explained that they had been watching me from the spirit realm, their spirit servants whom usually resides in the forest would sometimes return to the spirit realm to check in. And when they do, they often mention me in their conversations which then piqued their interest, curious about the young fox who dwelled in the forest. It was a surreal moment, realizing that these revered entities had taken an interest in me. But wait. That means they have seen me in various number of embarrassing moments! I blushed and exclaimed in apology for showing such unsightly behaviour to them. There was a short pause and I felt my body being carried by a pair of hands. Noticing that it was Ifrit that held me with a smile. They start chuckling and teasing me. Calling me cute and pinched my cheeks. My face was most likely as red as Ifrit's hair.

They continued, I listened intently, absorbing every word like a sponge, or trying to. They expressed that they grew very attached to me as they watched me from their realm. They found out about me being curious about the world and knew I was scared to venture out alone with no guidance. So, they offered to show me the world beyond the forest, to be my guardians and guides as we embarked on a journey together. I think my little small brain might had fried as my eyes became the shape two little blue dots and let out, "Huh?"

Elqueeness's face then contorted into worry, "Oh dear! Was that too much for you, little one? Let me heal you really quick" Elqueeness swiftly picked me up into her arms and had her hand rubbing my head to try and ease my brain from the information overload. Elqueeness even used her special healing ability to do it which felt soothing to me. The other kings then looked at me worriedly too. They are probably thinking in their heads that what they told me was probably too much. I then finally snapped out of it and registered the words spoken to me. I was going to leave the forest. I will be going out and see the world. The thought both thrilled and terrified me, for I had never ventured far from the safety of my woodland home.

Perhaps sensing my feelings, Trowell, caressed my furry cheeks. She spoke, "Do not worry, Alaya. We consider you our little niece. We, the spirit kings, will protect you if anyone tries to hurt you. So, there is no need to worry." Listening to the comforting words, I was soothed. With excitement, I accepted their offer, knowing deep down that this was an opportunity I could not pass up.

The next day, we set out from the forest, my 4 aunts disguised as spirit summoners to conceal their true identities. They each worn a cloak to attract less attention but why do I get the gnawing feeling that they are going to get a lot of that in the future. Arriving in a bustling kingdom filled with diverse species and bustling activity, I, who was hidden under Minerva's cloak and carried in her arms, marvelled at the sights and sounds of the unfamiliar world around me. Elves, humans, and beastmen mingled in the streets, their conversations a symphony of languages and dialects. It was all new to me. Some even had strange things on their persons.

Curious, I looked up at Minerva and asked, "Miss Minerva, why are those people those strange things on them and going in and out of that big place?"

Minerva looked down, replying, "They are adventurers. And those strange things on them are weapons that they use to protect themselves, Alaya. And please, call me Aunt Minerva." I then shyly looked away with a red face.

I was still not quite used to the fact that I now have 4 aunts who, by the way, are Spirit Kings. I then sneakily glanced up at Minerva and sees that she was still smiling at me but I could tell that there was a look of hope and anticipation in her eyes. So, with much courage I spoke, "A-Aun-Aunty Minerva..." It was very soft, barely audible but Minerva being a spirit king could hear me clear as day.

I saw her smile grew ever so large by the new title but then, "No fair! I want Alaya to call me Aunt too!" Ifrit glared daggers at Minerva with envy. Even Elqueeness and Trowell looked somewhat sad and narrowed their eyes at Minerva disapprovingly. They were jealous.

Not wanting any attention being drawn to them, I tried to diffuse the situation. "Umm, A-Aunty Ifrit, Aunty Elqueeness and Aunty Trowell, please don't get angry. We might attract attention." Hearing the word aunty to their names by their adorable niece, the 3 women then became happy again and let it go. Thank goodness.