The Tale of the White Fox

The quiet rustle of grass under your bare feet, the scent of wild flowers and the coolness of the night are the usual companions of your evening walks. You are the keeper of the peace of this small settlement, lost among rice fields and an ancient forest. You know every path, every rustle, every reflection of the moon on the water. And your connection with these lands is deeper than that of any other resident.

One day, under cover of darkness, you noticed a faint movement in the tall grass. As you approached, you saw it – a white fox, small and defenseless. He lay motionless, as if thrown out by a storm, his breathing barely audible. Your heart sank with pity, and without thinking, you picked him up in your arms.

In your home, filled with the warmth of the hearth and the scent of herbs, the fox gradually grew stronger. You nursed him, shared your care, and he responded with quiet gratitude. During the day, he basked in the sun, and at night, he slept at your feet. But one night, a soft breath touched your face. Opening your eyes, you saw him - a man with long, silver hair, hanging over you. His gaze was full of mischief and tenderness.

"Wake up, mistress!" his voice sounded like the ringing of a bell.