The following morning, Nanami awoke early, stretching as the first rays of sunlight filtered through the trees. She had slept well, the quiet of the forest lulling her into a peaceful rest. After a quick breakfast, she packed her things and mounted her broomstick.
It was still early, and the sky was painted in soft hues of pink and gold. The wind felt warm as she soared through the air, her red dress billowing like a red ribbon against the sky.
As she flew, Nanami spotted a small cottage nestled between the trees far below. Smoke curled from the chimney, and the garden was filled with vibrant flowers and herbs. Intrigued, Nanami decided to land nearby and investigate.
She touched down softly, the ground cool beneath her boots. She approached the cottage and knocked lightly on the wooden door.
A moment later, an elderly woman with a kind but weary face opened the door. Her eyes widened in surprise when she saw Nanami standing before her.
"A witch? What brings you here, child?" the woman asked, her voice raspy but warm.
"I'm Nanami, a witch traveling to help those in need," Nanami explained, offering a friendly smile. "I couldn't help but notice your beautiful garden. I thought I might offer my assistance."
The woman hesitated, glancing around as if unsure of what to say. Finally, she sighed.
"Perhaps you could help after all," she said, stepping aside to allow Nanami in. "Come in, my dear. I'll make tea."
Inside, the cottage was cozy, filled with the comforting scent of herbs and the soft crackling of a fire. Nanami sat at the small wooden table, watching as the woman prepared the tea.
"I've heard that witches can do all sorts of things," the woman said after a while, her voice trembling slightly. "Can you help me with something... personal?"
Nanami nodded, curious.
"I'm an herbalist, you see. But lately, my hands have been shaking. I can't even brew a simple remedy without spilling everything. My daughter was supposed to come and help, but she hasn't returned from her travels. I fear something has happened to her."
The woman's eyes filled with worry, and Nanami's heart went out to her.
"I'll do what I can," she said gently. "Tell me everything you know."
The woman's story was one of misfortune. Her daughter, a fellow herbalist, had left on a journey to gather rare herbs from the northern mountains. But months had passed, and she had not returned. The woman feared the worst.
"I need to find her," the woman said, her voice barely above a whisper. "If you could help me, I would be forever grateful."
Nanami's mind raced. This was the kind of thing she had hoped to do with her travels—to help those who truly needed it.
"I will find her," Nanami promised. "I'll go to the mountains and bring her back."
The woman's face softened with relief.
"Thank you, dear. I will tell you everything I know."