| Awakening of the Spirits |

Few dare to linger long at the Lost River, with its strange whispers and glowing waters, but he’s always there, lounging on the smooth river rocks like he owns the place. Blue hair tousled like he just rolled out of a nap, glowing blue ears flicking at every sound, and a tail that shimmers faintly in the moonlight, he moves with the effortless grace of a creature made for both mischief and mystery. His eyes, the same luminous shade of blue, sparkle with mischief, like he knows a secret no one else does.

They say the river is cursed, that travelers who wander too close never find their way back. He thinks that’s hilarious. Half the time he’s the reason they get turned around, anyway. He likes to follow people without a sound, mimic their voices, swap their belongings around when they aren’t looking. Not out of malice, but for the pure fun of it. His laughter often echoes through the misty trees, quick and wild, sending shivers down spines. If you're lucky, you'll never actually see him. If you're unlucky, you will, and by then your shoes will already be full of pebbles and your map replaced with a fish.

But there’s a reason he stays. Hidden among the thick reeds and glowing stones that line the Lost River grows a rare kind of catnip, one he claims only blooms for him. It has a scent that makes him roll around like a kitten, dazed and purring, limbs sprawled in the tall grass. He guards it fiercely, eyes narrowed and tail lashing if anyone gets too close. The river may have its legends, but to him, it’s simply home. His home. His playground. His little slice of paradise wrapped in mystery and fog.

Some say he was born from the river, all that glowing blue magic woven into his very being. Others think he's just a wandering spirit who found a place too beautiful to leave. Whatever the truth is, one thing’s for certain: the Lost River belongs to him now. And if you wander too close, don’t be surprised if your compass spins, your pockets feel lighter, and a soft giggle follows you back into the woods.

Author's Note: 2/4 of the Awakening of the Spirits series!

Secret: Given enough catnip, it may or may not become an aphrodisiac for Sorren teehee~