Disclaimer: I do not own Kino no Tabi or any of its characters. Please keep in mind that this is a fanfiction that is unofficial and is solely based upon the imagination of its writer.

"So where are we going now, Kino?"

"I don't know, where the road leads us, perhaps?" replied the other.

And the journey continued once more until destiny took its course and leads the pair to a fork in the road. Both roads seem to have a lot of differences, causing the individuals to make a decision once more.

"I guess the country on the left has a tower. It seems interesting enough. Why not go there?" said the female traveler after a sigh.

"Whatever you say, Kino"

"So let's get going, shall we, Hermes?"

And so the two stopped talking and took off to their desired path. It was definitely a hot day but it's no surprise since the sun is still up and as they continued, they seemed to be closer and closer to it. This went on until the partners reached high walls and gates. There, a man in uniform approached them.

"Welcome to the country of the sun, travelers. To be honest, I'm quite surprised. There haven't been many travelers here nowadays. Maybe they had gone there instead", said the man.

"There?"

"Oh, it's nothing. So how long will you be staying here?"

"Three days and two ni-"

"So that would be three days then. Please enjoy your stay", said the man before the two exchanged farewells.

At an instant, the gates opened, showing the enormous city within. It was much of a sight. The rays from the sun caressed the buildings, giving them a creamy yellowish color. The clear bay ahead has a wide horizon, making it the ideal place to watch the sunset. Everyone was busy doing their work, with the majority filling the fields, harvesting crops.

"Kino, why do a lot of people here go to harvest?" mumbled Hermes.

"I don't know. Why not ask them?" said Kino in reply.

Before they had a chance to ask, a man possibly in his 20's came from behind to answer them.

"Winter is coming soon and our people will not be able to survive then without enough food supply."

"Oh… Then why aren't you?"

"I've already done food gathering on my behalf yesterday. My other business involves selling flowers. I guess there's not much to food to gather there, right?" said the man with a smile.

The other giggled.

"I haven't introduced myself yet. I'm Haru."

"I'm Kino and this is my motorrad, Hermes", replied Kino.

"I see that you're new here. Mind me showing you around?"

"No. No. I'd be happy too."

Together, the three walked along the road. Kino was amazed at how beautiful the country was. The air was warm; the sea was clear. The list could go on and on. The traveler just can't help but think of how the country she's at right now compares to the others she had seen. When she went back to reality, she saw Haru pause for a moment.

"It's nearing dusk already. Let this field be our last stop today."

"Ok."

"The sunflowers… they're just beautiful aren't they, Kino?"

"Of course they are."

A long moment of pause followed, only to be broken by the younger person.

"You surely love this country. Do you, Haru?"

"Of course, I do."

With that, the two parted ways for the day. Immediately, Kino went to a hotel to sleep. There was not much to see there at night, anyways. Everyone's already asleep and there's no one in sight in the streets.

Feeling the cold breeze brushing her cheeks, Kino said, "You know, Hermes? The moon is such a wonderful sight even in here."

"Now that you mention it, it sure is", mentioned Hermes.

"Do you think if people here have ever seen it?"

"Let's sleep now, Hermes. I'm so drained…" said Kino before making a long yawn.

- End of Chapter 1 -

A/N: This is my first fic. I'm soooo nervous about this. When Kino no Tabi is mentioned, several thoughts come to mind. This is one of them. What is the connection of the country of the sun to the other country? Why are they behaving like that at nighttime? You'll have to read the next chapter to find out. XD

Hopefully, there will be a whole new section solely for Kino no Tabi in the near future. Please rate and review. Comments are appreciated.