“Just a smooch, Panny.”

“Yeah, whatever man. Don’t let it get to your head.”

~

• A Hearth’s Warming Day tradition in the Farasi Tribe is similar to our real-life mistletoe tradition. They, however, store the skulls of panthers over the period of about 5 years, shrinking them in a special brew to a size fit for decorating. In celebreation of gift-giving, they take the day to appreciate the gift of their loved ones, and that they’re all still alive and well. Since panthers are a main threat to the tribe, each skull added to their collection means one more life saved. It’s not as morbid as it seems.

• Panther and Zena are best friends. They’re comfortable with each other in every possible way. Zena gives him a lil smooch on his nose every Hearth’s Warming, ever since the first holiday he shared with her. They’re teens here, still in training, but this year, the kiss sends a wave of butterflies through his stomach. He doesn’t know why he’s so flustered this time- he genuinely just considers her his best friend. They love each other, but they’re not in love with each other… yet.

• They’ve never actually kissed. Not a real one. Both of them make sure to remind everyone of that when the elders start spreading rumors.

• Panther grows a pretty fluffy coat during the wintertime! Even though the land they live on is dry and barren, it snows every year.

• For a lot of their lives, they’re the same height (if you disregard Panther’s horn). Panther eventually outgrows her (and basically everyone else in the tribe).

• Zena is the only one who’s allowed to call him “Panny.” Occasionally, very rarely, some tribe members are allowed to get away with “Pan.” Panny is Zena’s special nickname for Panther.

Merry Christmas everyone!! <3 The best present I’ve gotten is all of your love, support, and friendship. I know, that’s maybe the cheesiest thing I’ve ever said. But I do mean it! I’ve loved my experience here on DeviantArt, and I give full credit to all of you for being so sweet and thoughtful. All the favs, comments, conversations… they really do mean everything to me. Thank you so much for that gift <3

If you don’t celebrate Christmas, I hope you enjoy your holidays and have a wonderful New Year’s celebration!! :D