Morning Mist

Hicarry pressed her palms against the cool stone steps of Silver Stone Kitsune Temple. Cherry blossoms drifted down like pink snow, landing softly on her black hair with its golden swirls. She pulled her kitsune mask higher, making sure it covered most of her face.

"Today's the day," she whispered to herself, her amber eyes reflecting worry.

Her nine black fox tails, each decorated with gold swirls, twitched nervously behind her. She tucked them closer to her body and adjusted her school uniform—a crisp white shirt and navy skirt that felt strange after years of flowing robes.

The temple bells chimed seven times. Time to leave for Moonridge Middle School.

Hicarry had practiced hiding her ears under a special headband, but what if someone noticed? What if her tails appeared during gym class? What if her magic slipped out when she got nervous?

She took one last look at the peaceful temple, then stepped onto the path leading to the human world.

The Music Box Discovery

Hicarry walked through the school's front doors, her heart beating fast. Students filled the hallways, laughing and talking. She kept her head down, making sure her headband stayed in place.

"Welcome to Moonridge!" A girl with short brown hair bounced up to her. "I'm Maya. You look lost."

Hicarry's amber eyes widened. "I'm... new."

"Perfect! Follow me." Maya grabbed her arm and pulled her toward the music room. "We're setting up for the spring festival. Mrs. Chen needs extra hands."

Inside the music room, boxes of instruments sat everywhere. Maya handed Hicarry a small wooden music box. "Can you wind this? It's supposed to play for the opening ceremony."

Hicarry touched the delicate box. Her magic stirred without warning. Golden sparks shot from her fingers. The music box began playing three different songs at once, spinning wildly.

"Whoa!" Maya stepped back, eyes wide. "How did you do that?"

Hicarry's tails almost appeared from shock. She dropped the music box, which kept playing its chaotic melody. Other students turned to stare.

"I... I have to go," Hicarry whispered, backing toward the door.