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The Title: Following Traditions
The Players: Cerylia, Tallulah, Tiranna (by mention)
Word Count: 882




As the new year waved to the prior, a brilliant, perfect snowfall had painted the land in glistening white. Some of the lingering birds began chirping merrily as the sun started to rise, creating a shimmer across the fluffy snow. The land breathed once more, allowing its inhabitants to awaken and begin their routines.

One such creature was the one named Tiranna, a native maiden whom most of the Soquili called a two-legger. She was the one who kept things tidy, along with making the most delicious treats. She could always read the feelings, thoughts, and love of the creatures that gathered around the campsite. Of all the Soquili in the area, one particular slender mare graced Tirranna with company while her mother traveled high in the mountains. Sure, it was lonely, but Cerylia believed in her mother's words with all her heart. During the windy snowstorm before the morning, both Cerylia and her timid wolf, Tallulah, rested in the teepee with Tirranna. Now that it was morning, it was time to begin the yearly routine. Naturally, Carylia learned from her mother the ins and outs of helping around the campsite. She yawned, rising to her feet before nudging Tirranna, acknowledging it was time for preparations.

She then walked out of the teepee, leaning downward to pick up a bucket. Moving forward, she headed past the lake till she found a fresh running stream. Dipping her head downward, she filled the bucket with a sway of her head.

"Why do you gather water?" came the shy voice of her companion, Tallulah.

"It's tradition for Celendria to help with the festivities. In her absence, I must prepare things. Only then will the New Year treats appear".

Tallulah cocked her head, "Treats? I'm going to tag along since I'm usually out hunting when all this goes on".

Cerylia smiled, "Certainly. You can even help if you want to. It's a lot of prep, but it's worth it in the end". She then picked up the bucket, carrying it back to Tiranna, who was already prepping the fruits. positioned the bucket on the ground. Cerylia moved inside the teepee, bringing out a woven cloth. Tiranna took everything inside the teepee after patting Cerylia on the shoulder.

Tallulah tilted her head, That's the treats? What is the water, and the other stuff for?" She sniffed the air, hearing the crackling of fire in the darkness. Before she could speak, Cerylia was off gathering things, while Tiranna exited the teepee with an armful of things. Tallulah whimpered, completely lost. How did this all become treats? Throughout the day, she watched Cerylia and the two-legger making things. She tried herself with the dreamcatchers, but her paws only got in the way. Instead, she retrieved things when Tiranna requested them. It wasn't an amazing experience, but she loved listening to Tiranna's singing. Tradition. Such was the new year to bring good fortune to the area. Perhaps, better crops, new friends, and perhaps the joy of spring would bring the elder mare back. She had been gone so long now, yet Cerylia believed in her mother and her return.

Throughout the day, several activities took place, leading the sun upward, finally descending downwards. The smell was undeniable to the wolf as she followed Cerylia and Tiranna into the teepee. There, the unmistakable aroma of delicious hard work awaited them. Cerylia pulled herself downward, knees buckling beneath her. The teepee smelled new to the senses, as things today were freshened and cleaned. Now, as the sun was preparing for sleep, they all enjoyed the feeling of sanctuary and good tidings.

Tallulah couldn't believe everything they accomplished today. It seemed a blur, and yet it was more of an onset play with cleaning and revival. Putting her head between her paws, Tallulah listened to a soft yet beautiful tune on Tiranna's flute. Afterward, the maiden finally prepared the treat Cerylia had mentioned. While all their tasks took precedence over most of the day, the result was a tasty treat that sang thank you in a delicate aroma of berries, flowers, and, of course, apples. As Tallulah swallowed her bite, she turned to Cerylia, "Why all that? I mean, the treat was a good reward."

Cerylia smiled, "This tradition was something my mother and Tiranna shared from the first day they bonded. Even in winter's chill, they worked together to create a new memory. I'm not my mother, but I try my best to savor that sweet snack".

Tallulah looked upward, blinking in satisfaction at the beautiful creation hanging above them, "I got to help too. Well, my paws did get caught in the weaving...."

Cerylia chuckled, "Yes, but you fetching the other things was a big help. I can't do more but hold the string, but look at the finished result. It will protect us from misfortune and bad dreams ".

Tallulah smiled, "It's nice. Say, Cerylia, do you think your mom is coming back this year?

Cerylia closed her eyes, "Yes".

Tallulah seemed to smile, understanding that the New Year preparations were essential to carry on through the year. Once more, she looked up at the dreamcatcher as the flute carried on its tune. All of their effort had ensured the tradition of Celendria and Tiranna would never be forgotten.

~Fin

The Title: Spring Festival News
The Players: Cerylia, Glory, Cella Luna, Lady Arendelle, and Tirranna (by mention)
Word Count: 1,368




The year had been exceptionally hard when Cerylia saw her mother leave for the mountains. It had been months now, awaiting her return. Doing her best, she assisted Tirranna, wondering if she'd spend time with Eton during the Spring festival. It seemed frivolous at first to still honor this special season, yet Cerylia welcomed the chance to speak with siblings once more. Tiranna was busy making the favored treats of Celendia's bloodline. So many family members faded off into the future with their own families. An amusing thought occurred to the young spotted ice mare as the winds tossed her braids from the mountains. Had her mother chased a dream of a new mate who would stay with her and Cerylia's siblings? What if she returned with new siblings to look after? Those who chose to stay in the area would be overjoyed to see foals running around in the meadows and playing in the effervescent streams. Perking her ears, she heard Tiranna's call. Cerylia walked over to taste the delicious treats. Nodding her head, she agreed that everything was ready for full bellies. Picking up red streamers, she craned her head upward so Tirranna could grab the end, tying it nicely in place. Cerylia then repeated the same step; the streamers were hanging perfectly.

She was the hostess this year, leaving nothing undone. The tables were set, covered in a silken red fabric with beautiful designs. Now, all that was left was for the family to arrive. Tossing her head, Cerylia flicked an ear as her head turned toward the mountains, a longing stirring in her heart. Her mother was precious, not only to those arriving but also to Tirranna. Celendria was the Matriarch who stood the test of time. Cerylia mused, her memories flooding back to her age as a filly. Stepping up beside her mother, little hooves contrasting with those solid, crystalline hooves of her mother. She was massive to the tiny hooves that stood within her shadow. Thinking back, how would she ever be able to stand in those hooves? Celendria seemed ethereal at times, a floating Ice Goddess tethered to this lifetime.

"Hey there, sister," came the voice of a familiar mare. "Long time no see, huh?" Standing in the campsite was a white unicorn that grew with age over the years. While she wasn't bloodline, her solo lone basket made her family true blood. "Cerylia? You doing alright?" The mare known as Glory, adorned with deep purple hair, looked worried, "Where is Mother? Did something happen?" Glory's spiral glistened in the phantom sunlight filtering from the clouds.

Cerylia turned quickly to see Glory standing here, those blue eyes deeply concerned. She shook her head, "No, I mean... Mother is on a quest in the mountains for something". The truth of the matter was that Cerylia had no clue why her mother was having dreams; she just had to accept it. Cerylia was about to speak when a tall shadow loomed over them both. Turning quickly, she noted her other sister had arrived.

Standing before Glory and Cerylia was none other than Cella Luna. She was definitely the odd one out of the bunch. That storm had brought bad tidings, mystical, spiritual energy, and strange baskets. "Heyas!" the voice of the tall dinosaur-appendaged sibling. She always seemed to walk on claws, which was unheard of in the family. At least she wasn't born a shifter that could have gobbled them up, right? Cella Luna chuckled at that one. She knew she was different than the rest of them, thus her jokes, she knew they whispered. On the table, there was a plate of fish set out just for her. Walking over, she snapped one up faster than the others could blink. Following in suit, Cella Luna also enjoyed a freshly made treat, still devouring things like a heron in the late.

Glory was first to say something, "Gah, sis, you know that is just not Soquili nature. I swear you are more bird than Soquili".

Cella Luna chuckled, "What can I say, it's who I was born to be".

Glory laughed with a chortle, "That you are!"

Cella Luna clicked her tongue, "Pleased to amuse you, Glory". She then turned to Cerylia, "You are really down for the celebration. What's going on?" Craning her head downward, Cella Luna snapped up another fish, swallowing it quickly.

Glory interveined, "Mother is off on a quest. The thing is, we have no idea why" . She then looked at Cerylia. "Do you know when she'll return"?

Cerylia shook her head, "No. I know she is safe, but it's unknown when her return will come."

Another figure arrived as if the winter winds were gently helping her. She seemed strange, yet Cerylia knew who this elusive mare was. Perhaps, when Cerylia was merely a foal, she saw her for the first time. The mare stood still, as she glistened like Glory's horn. Nodding, she smiled to Cerylia and her sisters. "I bring news of your mother," speaking softly, hoping Cella Luna was listening as well.

Cerylia's eyes widened, "Good news, I take it?" Her eyes lingered for information about her mother's well-being.

Glory's concentration and attention lie on the mare she'd never met before. Who was this mare? How did she know of Celendria's quest?

Before she could speak once more, she was cut off by Cella Luna, who stared directly at the stranger, "How do you know our mother? You just appeared from out of nowhere. Like a ghost. Wait, are you a ghost?"

The newcomer laughed, "No child, I am not a ghost. I am your Great -Aunt. Lady Arendelle "The Winter solstice" she nodded with a dip of her head, "I am Isodla's sister".

Glory blinked, "What of our Mother, is she doing alright?" She didn't want to be forward, but Arendelle said she had news.

Arendelle nodded, "Very well. Your mother is safe, freed from her visions. She has found what she sought for many years".

Cella Luna blinked, "Which is...what?" She couldn't help but be relieved of this pending news once it was delivered.

Cerylia stepped forward, her eyes shimmering, "She found him... didn't she? The one from her visions that called to her".

Glory blinked at Cerylia, "Him? I'm so out of the loop right now". She moved to the plate, taking a berry as it squished upon her tongue.

Cerylia nodded, "Mother was having visions about someone calling out to her. She has found him at last."

Cella Luna scrunched her nose, "So, she took a new mate. Does that mean she's coming home now?"

Arendelle shook her head, "She will be on the mountain top for some time. She worries about you three more than anything". Celendria needs time with Thorleif and your new siblings growing within her".

Cerylia's eyes widened! Could it be she was going to have more siblings to watch over and care for?! She stilled her inner joy, responding, "I'm so happy, Arendelle. She finally found peace after dad".

Glory blinked, "Siblings? I wonder what they'll be like? And Thorleif? I can't wait to meet him. I bet he's handsome!"

Cella Luna snickered, "Gee, Glory, I wonder if they'll be dino birds like I am. Lots of fish. Oh, wait, I'd have to share... hmm."

Arendelle laughed. "In time, ladies. In time". She then ventured over to the table, looking at all the goodies. There was time to talk about Celendria's new mate and new siblings. "Let's enjoy the festival and be excited about your mother's return, shall we?"

Cerylia breathed with a relieved sigh, knowing her mother was protected from the unknown. Moving toward the table, she felt a moment of happiness wash over her, knowing this year had started unknowingly. Now, the news of Celendria and siblings brightened the mood of the conversation and the festival. In time, she'd get to see her again. For now, focus on celebrating those who brought them to this point. As Glory, Cella Luna, and Arendelle feasted on fish, berries, and fresh-baked snacks, Cerylia chose her own snack that she enjoyed. "Thank you, Mother. Thank you for a better year to come...when you return once more."

~Finn

Title: Dragons by the River
The Players: Cynder, Silver Fire, Tieguanyin, Shaylee (mention)
Word Count: 1,596
The Plot: Three female dragons are all drawn to a river...


A story carried around the Kawani lands of dragons who met for the first time.Not just any dragons, but three very different species of dragons. The Kawani lands are well known for many things, but dragons were few, far, and in between in sightings. A silly flutter by the name of Shaylee witnessed this odd event, being the first to spread the news far and wide...

One amazing spring day near a free-flowing river, a large kalona appeared. Her winged appendages, torn in places, matched the rest of her form with a warning to stay away. Her green, menacing eyes surveyed the area, seeking something to agitate or inhibit to be her dinner for the day. Tail lashings wildly with a tip like a silver blade, she grew annoyed that this area was too simple, boring even. Craning her head downward, the dragoness partook of the drink that seemed cool and refreshing upon her palate within her muzzle. For the moment, it was calm, which she hadn't really found comforting beforehand. The birds' songs and the insects chirping were unnerving to a dragoness such as herself. She pondered resting beneath this gallant tree whose foliage filtered out the sun that baked the fur upon her shoulders and hindquarters.

Then she sensed something moving swiftly from toward the west, incoming quickly. Hissing, the dragoness with the torn wings moved further into the shadows. Her green, devious eyes narrowed; a winged creature was incoming. Soquili were, in essence, easy prey, though some didn't taste too appetizing. The draoness blending with the foliage and shadows kept a vigil over the incoming. If it were prey, she'd surely feast well. On the other hand, if it were a shifter, it was something she would not take a chance with.

From the sky descended another dragon, appearing much smaller, yet it carried wings possibly larger than those of the first dragoness. The descending dragon landed gracefully, her steps moving her in a circle before stretching her wings, later placing them by her sides in an eloquent manner. Making an odd noise, she first glanced around as if sniffing out danger. The first dragon had herself downwind of the other, standing perfectly still, evaluating who or what species this other dragon was exactly. She seemed rather timid, uneasy. The second dragon slid her finned tail around her side, walking towards the stream uneasily. A feeling like she was being watched, possibly. Shifters were found in many places, which she'd rather not run into any in her opinion. Her species essentially was a dying breed, so being wary was key to survival. Still feeling uneasy, she opened her wings and quickly flew to the other side of the river for peace of mind. Creating another foreign sound, the other dragon craned her neck downward to drink, ears moving to capture sound that possibly waited in the shadows. The strange lantern moved just above the water, barely lit but carrying something precious within.

Once she was sated, her head rose at once, feeling that ominous presence leering into her soul. She is defensive, a strange sound followed by a hiss escaped her muzzle. Eyes narrowing, she spoke without hesitation, "I know you are there. Stop playing games.". Her stance grew rigid as her wings flared outward. A cracking noise could be heard deep within her chest and nostrils. She'd fight for her own survival of her species. Just as she was about to fire a small bolt of lightning as a warning, another creature was coming toward the West of the river. Ears perking, swiveling, she was curious yet frantic about what moved swiftly, yet barely any sound of pounding on the ground.

The first dragoness hissed as the other female threatened to fire lightning. Who did this other female think she was, honestly? She was about to reveal her identity when the incoming other captured her attention. Staying perfectly still, she spoke, You are a dragon, correct? Why not be civil and tell me what species you really are? Stop being cowardly," the first dragoness growled.

Meanwhile, the other incoming Soquili was unique from the previous two. While she had no wings, her gait was fast enough to lift her from the ground as if for most of her traverse was above the ground. She seemed longer, mane swaying, as the breeze captured her essence. In a word, she was purely ethereal in anyone's eyes. Her tail was thick with no fins or points as she carried antlers and scales unseen by others. As she moved closer to the river, her claws dug into the ground till her snake-like movements slowed; her elegance was beautifully sculpted. Her head shifted back and forth. The last dragon dipped her head downward, soaking in the life-giving drink. She felt at ease momentarily, then she heard the voice of the first dragon, and then gazing upon the other with raised wings, rigid with uncertainty. Her head tilted curiously, wondering what was causing the female distress. Quickly, she moved fast till she was near the white and purple dragon. "Why are you on defense?" she asked with a tilt of her head. "Surely, there is no reason for aggression. "

The white female turned slightly to gaze at the third dragon, "You don't sense them hiding in the shadows? They are chaotic, devious, and ruthless".

The third female tilted her head, "I sense only lightning within your breath. There is a feeling of uneasiness, but I didn't deem it threatening: "Possibly another of our similar species?"

The first dragoness, black as a canvas of night, grew tired of this strange female's questions. She emerged from her shadows, letting both the white, smaller female and the elongated one see her. "I wasn't doing anything of the sort. If I wanted to kill either of you, it would have been done moments ago".

The third female shook her head, "Very blunt, yes".

The white dragon muttered, "I told you that she was trouble. Hence why I showed her I wasn't a pushover."

The tallest of the females clicked her tongue, "So I was evaluating both of you for strength, intelligence. Is it really a sin to be curious about who you are?" She snorted, a puff of smoke left her nostrils. "Let's be civil, shall we?" She then looked from the second to the third female, "I'll go first. I'm known as Cynder. Yes, I am a dragon. There was that hard... how about you?" She queried the smaller of the three, "What is your species and name?" Eyes narrowing, Cynder wanted to know just how dangerous these two were. Dragons could be prey, but mostly, they could defend themselves if need be.

The white one stood still, not knowing why this was all happening. Pulling her finned tail toward her, she responded, "I'm an elder light Fury dragon. I'm known as Silver Fire". She still couldn't believe two other dragons were here, at the same time she was. Maybe it was something about this river that drew them in. She sighed, her head turning toward the oddest of them all. "Guess it's your turn... I've never seen your kind before."

The third nodded with a tilt of her head, "Very well. I'm known as a Fairy Lung Dragon. While I can not fly, I can move extremely fast as if I could take flight". She then smiled, tilting her head once more, " I'm known as Tieguanyin".

Cynder smirked, "So we are all dragonesses, which is fine with me. While I do enjoy the hunt, dragons are not on my menu".

Silver Fire breathed with relief, "That's good to know. I saw this river and wanted to taste the water. I need to be off soon, though".

Tieguanyin nodded, "I'd definitely agree it was the river that brought us here, together". She flicked an ear as a claw scraped over the ground, "While I'd like to stay and converse, "I, too, must be on my way.

Cynder looked around as the evening was setting in. How long had this day moved onward without her knowledge, she wondered. Still, her curiosity was sated as both of the other females prepared for departure.

Silver Fire moved first, bidding her farewell to the others as the rising evening light of the moon caused her hidden markings to appear. She then took off into the sky till she disappeared into the darkening clouds.

Tieguanyin watched in amazement as the moon's light revealed Silver Fire's secret. A feeling of awe danced around her, knowing that Light Fury was spectacular to converse with. Perhaps she gets to see her again, maybe ask what the lantern attached to her was significant. Then he nodded to Cynder, bidding her farewell. In the light that filtered downward, Tieguanyin seemed to sparkle and glow in a strange yet beautiful display. She took off running back the way she came, moving increasingly faster by every stride till she appeared airborne in perception.

Finally, Cynder was wondering what had just happened. Both Silver Fire and Tieguanyin were two different dragons she herself had never heard about or witnessed till this day. Both held valuable secrets, which possibly intrigued Cynder. Silver Fire still captured attention most of all. Just what was that lantern for anyway, she wondered. Shrugging, she moved back to her space in the shadows to wait for a timed creature to sate her hunger over the questions that had surfaced within her mind. Leaving one eyelid open, she rested herself beneath the tree, letting her thoughts drift away for now.

~ Fin