This one kind of reminds me of your shopkeeper story, though the ending wasn't quite as happy. x_x;

Actually, it is directly linked to "The Shopkeeper" story.

Through the use of fun writing, I have tied all the "Further Realms" pieces together so that, in some way, they have an influence on this grand tale. In this case, "The Shopkeer" was, in actuality, in possession of Oxnard the Master Brush Hamster.

As this story tells, though, it was only a matter of time before people caught wind of The Shopkeer's "magic pet" and began to descend on him. Although he had managed to hold off forces for some time, it was Fuxie of "The Quick and the Angry" who finally did him in through her erratic and temper-laden assault technique. She attacks first and asks questions maybe.

*Nods Head* He will be missed.

Oh! (O_O) Durr!

Sorry.. I had just woken up a few minutes before replying to this ^^;;

No worries my draggy friend. *Hugs* The fact I am writing this series in a very open-ended sort of way also leaves lots of room for "???" moments, too. I'm just happy to know you have been enjoying it. Only a few more to go. :)

Yipe! I'm thinking maybe I found out who Foxie's brother was to late? I forgot that the shop-keeper was a fox (I thought it was you, so I didn't remember the species specifically.) But that's what my guess is. I also wasn't sure who the hamster was since he was white and black. (Maybe I'm too picky, if I think Oxnard's white and gray,) but from what I read above, that's who the fox dude had with him? :3

And then Fuxie finally got to him - most unfortunately, it seems, before he and Foxie could be reunited.
I'm sure it won't be a pleasant surprise when she makes her way there. D:
And now I wonder where Ox is now if he broke out when everything happened - especially since the others are looking for him too.
Lots of things to wonder about with this new chapter! Ehehehe.

Indeed. When I wrote "The Shopkeeper," I never intended for it to be a part of a greater whole. However, as I've been quite spontaneous with this project, I couldn't help but make a connection.

*sigh* As a writer, I do despise having to have moments like what happened to Foxie's brother. However, sometimes the story just makes you go that way in order to stay true to itself.

I wonder what Coonishi is up to? ;)