The fox tilted its head, thinking. "A fragrant place… a big fruit tree… I'm not sure. I was born not long ago and only left the mountain a few days back. If my parents were here, they might know."
Mary studied the fox closely. Its gaze was steady, without obvious deceit.
"Where are your parents?" she asked. "Can I ask them?"
The fox shook its head. "They went out to do something. I don't know when they'll return."
Mary rubbed her temples. This was getting troublesome.
"Is this mountain covered by a formation your parents set up?" she asked.
"I don't feel any formation," the fox replied. "But we're the only ones living here. Other beasts, even powerful ones, don't dare come up this mountain."
That explained a lot.
Mary's eyes lit up with a new idea. "Then take me around the entire mountain. Help me look for her."
The fox hesitated, then raised its chin. "I'll help you—but on one condition. I want the spring water."
