Gerome and Kendhall the Grig
Gerome is an incredibly old Pine Sprite and one of the very unique few who took to
'the ridding', found his grove and settled back in as a rooted tree, becoming once
again young Pine Sprite. In fact, he is so old that he has become overgrown with
mosses and the like, though he suffers no rot or decay. Gerome has long since ceased
worrying about the outside world and his ancient grove lies outside the realms of
mortal man and more within the realms of Faerie. These days Gerome mostly sleeps
dreaming magical dreams. Otherwise, he can be seen or heard conversing with his
constant companion Kendhall the Grig.
Kendhall is a member of a sub-species of pixie, known as Grigs. They are small even by pixie standards. Grigs are closely related to peapod pixies. Grigs prefer the more wild places of the world, frequenting woodlands where they will often attach themselves to older Pine Sprites. Grigs will actually take up residence within the cones of Pine Sprites-but only rather larger individuals.
Initially, I had thought this a parasitic relation, but as it turns out, it is mutually
beneficial and even borders on symbiotic. Grigs keep Pine Sprites clear of predation by
parasitic insects, plants, humans, and members of the Unseelie court who might bring harm
to the wise old Pine Sprites. Kendhall and Gerome are very close friends by choice as much
by necessity, and thoroughly enjoy one another's company.
© The World of Kevin Buntin