There was little sound when hooves treaded the air. A soft whoosh was the wind’s only protest when legs pumped against it. Every so often, a light grunting echoed on the breeze. Perhaps even a reindeer could giggle.
A gentle arctic day was the most appealing to a herd of flying reindeer. When the gray mists were light and shared space with a juicy blue atmosphere, a reindeer’s senses could find delight in the skies.
Youthful spirits darted about the breezes. They relished the unharnessed freedom of the air. Only speed fulfilled enjoyment of every moment to its fullest. So they dashed between their herd mates with impatient flair.
More experienced reindeer simply drifted along with the winds. They preferred to savor the tingle of each moment. A slow sky melody was the sweetest for these wise souls.
The bluster of the holiday had passed. Pressures of the next season was months away. This was the most relaxing time of the year.
Various ears began to notice a sound unlike their own. The rhythmic beats of wings in the wind were known to the herd. For the sound to be this high up in the crispy air was unusual. An elderly bull was the first to see the wings’ owner. Instant shock froze the bellow within the elder’s throat. Others were alert enough to notice the elder’s reaction. Widened eyes gawked at the newcomer. Before long the entire herd stared at the incredible sight of a dragon flying along with them!
A wispy snow white flash caught the attention of some of the reindeer. A few of the more daring juveniles cautiously crept around the dragon’s side. Their eyes were greeted with a more amazing sight still. A passenger rode on this dragon’s back.
Beneath a swaying mane lay the unmistakable form of a unicorn. Gem-blue eyes accented its tranquil gaze. While both its mane and tail wafted in the wind, its head surveyed the scene with a controlled turn.
There was no hunter’s glare in the dragon’s lantern-gold eyes. No hint of malice showed in the creature’s deer-sized mouth. In fact, the dragon seemed as serene as the drifting mist itself. Under all of those mossy green scales was nothing but benevolent curiosity. Its extensive wings kept time in the wind as it sailed along beside the herd.
Slowly the herd spread their group across the sky. The dragon and unicorn rose into the unoccupied air. A few of the calves scampered playfully around the dragon’s tail. The herd’s ranks closed around the dragon while allowing enough space for the creature’s wings to flap a steady beat. With subtle winds adding a melodic accompaniment, the increased herd flew on.
Leloni Tabbyra's Peculiar Fables 