Jackie

When she was just a young pup setting out to seek her fortune, she befriended an old skydancer who tended a small, shriveled orchard all on her own. Jackie offered her services, and with their combined labor and love the trees grew lush and fruitful.

She was devastated when her friend revealed she was nearing the end, and horrified to find that the old farmer had no family or friends left to mourn her.

"Don't cry, darling," the Skydancer rasped on her deathbed. "I've simply outlived them. They'll all be waiting for me when I finally manage to kick it. I bet they're wondering what took so long!"

The funeral was simple and sweet, and the surprise that came after was sweeter still. The orchard had been left to Jackie, and it was now her responsibility to make sure it flourished.

Jackie loves the orchard, and talks to the trees like old friends. She can be seen in town selling fresh fruit at harvest, and jars of jellies and treats year-round. She takes her work very seriously, and leaves out offerings for the local spirits to guarantee the orchard's safety. Local teens are somewhat afraid of her, although she is hardly much older than them. If she catches you stealing from the trees, you're in for a hell of a tongue-lashing.

Still, she's always happy to spare a basket of peaches and apples for those who are polite enough to ask.