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 Posted: Sat Dec 12, 2015 11:46 am
Story-Telling Contest Colored by nepsah 2. Colored by Geyser Eelborn 3. Colored by -Yasha Alchemist Opens: December 16th
Closes: December 31st, 11:59 PM EST
Judges: Yushika and nepsah
Solstice is here, and it's a time of gathering friends and family together to share food, warmth, and stories! These three freshlings want to hear a really good story from your Nightmare/Daydream, maybe if they like it enough, they'll stick around!
Instructions:
Pick one of your Nightmares/Daydreams to tell a story in character! [If you do not have a Nightmare/Daydream, you make make an NPC - please state that you are doing so in your entry!]
You are allowed to make up a story, or use one that you find online and make edits to it.
There will be three ways to choose a winner! Best story featuring Santa Claws, best story where Solstice was saved, and customer favorite!
Rules:
This contest is completely free.
If you edit your post, please label in red at the top of your post that you've edited something, and the date when.
Anyone can enter, whether they are a newbie or not!
Staff may not enter.
Whining, guilt-tripping, or generally misbehaving over the contest will result in you being disqualified.
Make sure you've read the World of Below forum in its entirety!
You may not proxy for another person.
You may not gift or trade prizes from this event.
Form:
[size=11][b]Username:[/b]
[b]Preference:[/b] Bapho, Geimera (Geist/Chimera), Demon
[b]Entry:[/b]
[b]If you used an existing story, please source it here:[/b] [/size]
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Posted: Wed Dec 16, 2015 11:38 am
Username: Midnightglow18
Preference: (Geist/Chimera) Geimera, Bapho, Demon
Entry:
Coco sat down to tell the other freshlings a story she had been told in the orphanage before she was sent to the academy. Twas the night before fightmas and all through the school, the ghouls were a snooze. Then there arose a shriek, I ran to the window of my dorm to take a peek. There before my eyes was Santa Claws, with his team of fearful beasts, hooked to his sled. Shivering with excitement I watched him, heft his heavy pack of treasures onto his strong shoulders, for all the spooky freshlings. Creepy dolls and scary trains, peeking out of his bag. I grinned watching him sneak like a shadow about the school, slipping into dorm rooms like a geist to leave frightful surprises. Suddenly I felt a chill go up my spine, as through someone had walked over my grave. I realized I had been spotted. Frozen in fear, for the trouble of spying on Santa Claws. Santa Claws nodded and I knew I was not doomed. I watched Santa Claws return to his sled and scream to his team, "Run now, fly now. Terrors to deliver!! Merry Frightmas to all and to all a spooky night."
If you used an existing story, please source it here: Based off the Night before Christmas.
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Posted: Wed Dec 16, 2015 12:37 pm
Username: One little Jay
Preference: Geimera (Geist/Chimera), Demon, Bapho
Entry:
“Gather round’ me now dear ones, I have a story to tell.” She watched as the three freshlings huddled together in a group, their small hands wrapped around the large cups of hot chocolate she had given them to really get them in the right solstice-y mood. “Are we ready now?” The three gave her small nods. Smiling she began her story.
“It was exactly a week before Frightmas [Will be editing with the proper term] and Santa Claws was busy with work. His work shop was busy with a hustle and bustle of little hands preparing gifts for all the good Dreams [referring to nightmares and daydreams, may edit with proper terms], there was a warm air and a cheery spirit all around. Santa was busy checking his list and making sure that every gift was wrapped and every one accounted for. All seemed to be going according to plan in his workshop.
On the other side of the land up in a mountain high above lived a mean Nightmare who was simply up to no good. You see this nightmare hated all things Frightmas, for this nightmare had grown up an orphan; much like many of us. Unlike us though this Man was always alone, he had no family or friends. For this reason the Solstice was the saddest time of year for him, and he hated being sad. He had spent his whole life plotting a way to ruin the solstice and Frightmas for once and for all. This year he had come up with a plan, a plan that would change things forever.”
Looking over the little freshlings she raised an eyebrow at them, “Do you guys know what he was planning?” They three just shook their head. “Well I will tell you, one dark night after all the hustle and bustle had died down in Santa Claws work shop this mean Nightmare snuck into Santa’s home and kidnapped him!” The three freshlings gasped in horror. “All that this man left was a note that said “Now no one will have Frightmas Cheer”.
"Of course this matter was brought straight to the great council, and they assembled their best to find and retrieve Santa Claws, without alerting the public to his missing. This team was assembled of three members, a strong Baphomet, an agile and wise Geimera, and their leader a daring demon.” She eyed the three freshlings as she added them into the story, they seemed suddenly more intrigued. “These three studied the scene of the crime and were able to come up with clues. Working together they were able to find out where the man who had taken Santa Claws had retreated to. Reaching the base of the mountain they needed to come up with a plan on how to subdue the captor. ‘We should storm in and fight him head on’ said the Bap. ‘No we should wait until he’s sleeping and sneak in’ argued the Geimera. The leader shook their head and said ‘We should try talking to him. This is probably all just a misunderstanding.’ So the three proceeded up to the mountain and what did they find but the man and Santa Claws drinking hot coca by the fire.
After sometime of talking to the Nightmare the three decided to invite him to their own Solstice celebrations, because all the Nightmare really wanted was a friend or two. Apologizing profusely the Nightmare who turned out to be lonely and not bad returned Santa and Frightmas went off without a hitch. To this day the four of them are thick as thieves, so remember this dear freshlings when you see someone who you think is bad, that maybe all they need is a friend or two. You never know what good may come from a simple conversation. "
She smiled at the freshlings who were all nodding thier heads in agreement. "Now who needs more hot coca?"
(Sorry it's a little long I tend to get carried away)
If you used an existing story, please source it here: Nope I thought it up. Though it has elements from a bunch of different stories.
*Using an NPC since I have no Babbin*
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Posted: Wed Dec 16, 2015 1:12 pm
Edited 12/16/2015 at 5:26pm
Username: tweentigercub
Preference: Bapho, Demon, Geimera (Geist/Chimera)
Entry:
Ruddi didn't think that she would be reading stories to Freshlings anytime soon, but she's rather glad now. She was going to read one of her favorite books when she was a Freshling herself. Ruddi holds the picture book for all to see. They look attentive, so she clears her throat and begins the story.
"This is called 'Goodnight Freshling'. In the great blue room; There was a telephone; And a green balloon; And a picture of a Kidden jumping over the moon."
Flipping though the pages as she went sent a warm feeling through her gut.
"And there were three little Pumpkas sitting on chairs; And two little Fennekits; And a pair of mittens; And a little toy school; And a young Flitterrat."
Ruddi loved the picture of the Pumpkas. She always wonder what the Pumpkas would talk about.
"And the presents that are under the tree and a brush and a bowl full of mush; And a quiet old caretaker who was whispering “hush”; Goodnight room; Goodnight moon; Goodnight Kidden jumping over the moon."
She heard one of them giggle when she made the motion to hush.
"Goodnight light; And the green balloon; Goodnight Pumpkas; Goodnight chairs."
Another one yawns with a smile on their face.
"Goodnight Fennkits; And goodnight mittens; Goodnight clocks; And goodnight socks; Goodnight little school."
Ruddi smiles as she see a few drift off.
"And goodnight Flitterrat; Goodnight presents under the tree; And goodnight brush; Goodnight nobody; Goodnight mush."
She winks at the 'nobody' part of the story. She then whispers the rest of the story to them as well.
"And goodnight to the old caretaker whispering “hush”; Goodnight stars; Goodnight air; Good night noises everywhere."
When Ruddi finished some were asleep while the others were on the way. She quietly whispers to them a happy holiday and closes the book to take each one to bed.
If you used an existing story, please source it here: Goodnight Moon
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Posted: Thu Dec 17, 2015 12:09 am
Username: Strawberri Stardust
Preference: Geimera, Bapho, Demon
Entry:
Tamandani sat on a small stool with a rather large group of freshlings surrounding her, all eyes on her as it was story time. And this story was her very favorite of all time. The young professor enjoyed volunteering her time at the orphanage, especially around the Solstice, and loved seeing the looks of wonder that came over the little faces as they listened to stories.
"Everyone ready to listen?" she asked in her usual quiet lilt. Several heads nodded and some scooted closer to listen. "This story is called the Legend of the Solstice Spider." Clearing her throat, she began the tale.
"Once upon a time, long long ago, a gentle Nightmare was busily cleaning her home. She wanted the house to look perfect for the rest of her family who were already snuggled up tight in their beds, for the next morning was the day of the Solstice and everything had to be beautiful! She had even banished the family of spiders who had made their home in a far corner of the ceiling. Once she was finished, she sat back in a chair and admired her work, and admired the work her children and partners had done on the tree that took pride of place in the very center of the room.
But alas, the mother was very tired from her cleaning spree and as she admired, she fell asleep right in her chair. As she slept, the spiders came out from their hiding place and were amazed at how the tree sparkled in the night. But they couldn't see very well from their hiding place, so they skittered across the rafters and slid down their silk to take a closer look at the tree. Oh, how beautiful, they all said to each other, how festive! How perfect! Santa Claws was sure to love this tree the best of them all! What they didn't realize was as they crawled all over the tree, they left evidence in the form of cobwebs that covered nearly every inch of the tree.
Later, when Santa Claws arrived, the sight of the Solstice tree covered in cobwebs made him chuckle and he was amused at the excitement and enthusiasm of the little creatures who now peeked at him from their old home in the ceiling corner. However, he knew that the mother who had worked so hard to clean her home would be so upset to see the decorations covered with such gray and drab webbing. With a cheery smile at the spiders and a glance at the tired mother still fast asleep in her chair, Santa knew exactly how to make all of them very happy.
His eyes twinkled as he worked his magic on the tree, turning the dusty spider webs into shining, shimmering strands of silver and gold. Standing back to admire his own handiwork, Santa gave a hearty 'Ho, ho, ho!' as he laid out the presents for the family. Behind him, the mother's eyes opened blearily and she blinked at the figure in red that pulled brightly colored presents out of a velvet sack. 'Santa?' she asked, with all the wonder of a child in her voice. The jolly man in red turned and gave her a wink, and a 'Happy Solstice, mother,' before disappearing back up the chimney, his 'Ho, ho, ho' echoing through the walls.
In the morning, when the children awoke and scrambled down the stairs, they gasped at the sight their tree made in the light streaming through the windows. 'Mama, mama!' they cried, shaking her awake. 'Did you make that for the tree?' Their mother chuckled as she sat up to embrace her darlings. 'No, my loves, that was Santa Claws giving us a Solstice miracle.'"
Tamandani sat back and let her story sink in, a soft smile curving her lips. She always loved that story, and was glad to share it with others. "And that, little ones, is why we put tinsel on our trees, and why there should always be a Solstice Spider gracing the branches."
If you used an existing story, please source it here: Based on the legend of the Christmas Spider with some changes by me <3
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Posted: Fri Dec 18, 2015 3:57 pm
Username: Reoakee
Preference: Geimera (Geist/Chimera), Demon, Bapho
Entry:
Eveilyn flexed her fingers over the book and took a look at the little faces in front of her. They were all so excited and it made her a bit nervous wondering if she would stumble over a word. Still they wanted a story and she had volunteered for this….
“Once upon a time in a world unlike this there were a number of creatures called the Reavers. This race was a scary and terrifying race that liked to bully the other race who lived on the world. That bullied race was the Aliea who lived in the forests while the Reavers lived in the mountains. Neither the mountains nor the forest was very hospitable as the land seemed withered and gray. The Aliea loved holidays and always promoted peace on them but the reavers came from deep in the mountains each time festivals were held and destroyed all the decorations making all the Aliea very sad. None of them could remember a time when the solstice festival actually happened because each time everything ended up in tatters.”
Eveilyn wriggled her fingers in the air like scraps of fabric in the breeze.
“On year a little Aliea girl named Reath decided she was going to go into the mountains and ask the Reavers why they kept destroying all the festivals. She snuck out while her parents were sleeping and went into the mountains in the cold and the dark. Quickly she lost her way and became very scared. Still she didn’t want to turn back after all she didn’t know the way home and she still didn’t have her question answered. All night she walked and when light from the new day had began to lighten the world around her she found what she was looking for. A reaver town that was built into the side of the mountain. Heading up to the nearest house she knocked on the door. The reaver woman who answered was very shocked to see her. Reath asked her question right there in the doorway and the woman looked at her blankly for a minute before taking her hand and leading her to the center of the village. There she pointed to a massive scaled beast who was sleeping and with each breath out the ground around it withered. Leading Reath away before she could ask any more questions the woman bent down and whispered to Reath that the Reavers always stopped the festivals because they were too loud and if they woke the beast it would terrify everyone and destroy everything. Reavers weren’t as scary as they seemed to be but rather they were trying to protect the Aliea and themselves. Reath asked the old woman in a quiet voice she and her people could help and together they came up with a small plan of sorts.
Reath headed back to her home and woke everyone up. She told them they had a very important mission to take care of. Sleepy and more than a little leery after what the child had told them they all headed up to the mountain to see the sleeping beast themselves. When they got there the Reavers looked ready for a fight but Reath waved them off and with the help of the old woman explained her plan. Both sides were uneasy but agreed to try. The Aliea whoss voices were sweet and light all lined up around the beast alongside the Reavers whose voices were powerful and deep. Side by side both the Reavers and Aliea sang to the beast to help keep it asleep while others passed out food and simple gifts. Their voices echoed the lullaby thanks to the mountains and for the first time in memory the Aliea had their festival it was singing and soft but it was a festival none the less.
Still a greater miracle happened. The breath of the beast that had been rancid and killed the ground below it started to make the ground bloom and grow with life as though coming out of a nightmare. Everyone was surprised and for a moment the singing stopped. The beasts eyes opened and slowly it raised its head dropping sand and rocks that had accumulated with time on its skin. Still it’s breath gave life not death and somehow the beast didn’t seem as scary in fact it seemed like it was smiling. Reath stepped forward holding up a slice of cake and the creature raised one massive claw slowly and gently took the cake from the plate. All around all the adults were shocked and to scared to even move. Swallowing the cake slice in a gulp the creature stood up. Spreading its wings more sand fell to the ground and underneath red scales peeked through. Still the ground didn’t wither and die but instead sprung back to life. It actually got up and walked out of the mountain town then with everyone quickly moving out of its way as it went. The creature took to the air when it was out of the village and there was a hush for a moment before a great cheer arose. For the first time they weren’t scared of the beast because it was leaving and it hadn’t attacked as they thought it would if it woke up. They could have a festival and it seemed that the creature with all that sand and those sharp claws was actually flying around the valley and where it flew little sprouts of green seemed to be popping up.
And so the Reavers and the Aliea learned to live side by side and enjoyed festivals every year together where things weren’t destroyed and on the solstice in thanks they always made sure to leave a big plate of food and especially treats for Mr. Claws as they dubbed the creature who helped make their homes more hospitable so long as they sang to him so he didn’t have nightmares."
Closing the book she looked back over the faces in front of her. Two of them seemed half asleep but at least one child seemed to enjoy the story. She asked what their favorite part was and had to laugh when the child answered sandy claws.
If you used an existing story, please source it here: I made it up but I’m sure there are elements from many stories I’ve read over the years.
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Posted: Sun Dec 20, 2015 12:26 am
Username: Shicala
Preference: Geimera (Geist/Chimera), Demon, Bapho
Entry:Santa Claws Does Not Forget
Eva was a very good girl. She was kind, obedient, truthful, and unselfish. She had, however, one great fault,—she always forgot.
No matter how important the errand, her answer always was, "I forgot." When she was sent with a note to the office her guardian would find the note in her pocket at night. If she was sent to the storeroom in a great hurry, to get something for class, she would return late, without the article, but with her usual answer.
Her teachers talked the matter over, and decided that something must be done to make the little girl remember.
Frightmas was near, and Eva was busy making out a list of things which Santa Claws was to bring her.
"Santa Claws may forget some of those things," said her teacher.
"She cannot," replied Eva; "for I shall write sled, and skates, and drum, and violin, and all the things on this paper. Then when Santa Claws goes to my stocking he will find the list. He can see it and put the things in as fast as he reads."
Frightmas morning came, and Eva was up at dawn to see what was in her stocking. Her teacher kept away from her as long as she could, for she knew what Santa Claws had done.
Finally she heard her coming with slow steps to her room. Slowly she opened the door and came towards her. She held in her hand a list very much longer than the one she had made out. She put it in her teacher's hand, while tears of disappointment fell from her eyes.
"See what Santa Claws left for me; but I think she might have given me one thing besides."
Her teacher opened the roll. It was a list of all the errands and chores Eva had been asked to do for six months. At the end of all was written, in staring capitals, "I FORGOT."
Eva wept for an hour. Then her teacher told her they were all going to the house common room. For the first time she would see a Frightmas-tree. Perhaps something might be growing there for her.
It was very strange to Eva, but on the tree she found everything she had written on her list. Was she cured of her bad habit? Not all at once; but when her teacher saw that she was particularly heedless she would say, "Remember, Santa Claws does not forget."
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
If you used an existing story, please source it here: source, editted by me
Note: I do not have a nightmare this is a npc
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Posted: Thu Dec 24, 2015 3:08 pm
Username: Marinity
Preference: Bapho, Geimera, Demon
Entry: A wide smile curled on the lips of the young imp as she gave a wave of her large arms, corralling in all of the young Freshlings to sit around her in a circle.
"Hello, little ones!" She began with a giggle, her tail swishing behind her as she dropped to her knees, sitting herself right in the middle of the children. "My name is Miah, and I'm going to read you a story. Have any of your heard The Night Before Solstice?" She asked, head canting to the side. Her response from the crowd was mixed with smiles and confused frowns. The sight of some shaking heads had Miah giggling despite herself.
"It's alright if you haven't. You can follow along on the page, or just listen to the tale!"
Only then did she lift up the book, carefully picking open the large pages between her claws, cautious not to shred the pages as she opened to the front before beginning to read.
"Twas the night before Solstice, when all through Below,
Not a nightmare was stirring, all asleep, wrapped in shadow.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that good ol' Santa Claws soon would be there,"
She paused, taking a moment to glance around the group with a smile as some of the Freshlings began to pipe up at the mention of Santa Claws.
"The freshlings were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of Vespercats danced in their heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap."
"Miah, what'sa kerchief?" One of the freshlings asked, making the imp giggle softly in response.
"It's a type of scarf, little one! You can wear it around your neck, or you can wear it wrapped around your head to keep you warm," she explained, giggling again as her explanation earned her a soft 'Ooooh...' from a few of the children. She took one more quick glance around before continuing her story.
"When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.
When, what to my wondering eyes had me quite smitten,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight oversized kidden."
"I love Kidden!" piped up one of the freshlings, a wide smile over her face as she clapped, bouncing around a little in her spot.
"You should! They're very cute! A bit hard to take care of though. And just think; there's eight of them!"
"That's a lot of poop..." another freshling said, making Miah laugh freely as her head shook.
"Yes, Yes it is."
"With a little old driver, with a beard and large paws,
I knew in a moment it must be Santa Claws!
More rapid than Cockatriels his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!
"Now Darter! now, Scratcher! now, Charger and Mitten!
On, Rocket! On, Crystal! on, on Mitzi and Kitten!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of Toys, and Santa Claws too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney Santa Claws came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.
His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook when he laughed, like a big Aetherjelly!
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old imp,
And I laughed when I saw him, but then from fear my heart did fall limp!
But then a wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!"
"If Santa Claws is so big, how does he fit in the chimney?" Another freshling asked, making Miah grin as she leaned forward in her spot.
"Magic, little one! It's all about magic!"
"Oooh... that makes sense!"
Miah gave another laugh, her head canting to the side as she finally turned to the final page in the book, relaxing in her spot.
"He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Solstice to all, and to all a good-night!"
If you used an existing story, please source it here: It's based off of The Night Before Christmas!
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Posted: Sat Dec 26, 2015 11:01 am
Username: Kitomyx
Preference: Geimera (Geist/Chimera), new winner
Entry: Cole found himself surrounded by three bored little Freshlings. They seemed to be discussing their races and the differences between them. It almost seemed to come to an argument about which was the best when the senior Chimera thought of a way to quell their quarrel. Flexing his large wings to attract their attention, he cleared his throat.
"Hey, guys, no need to fight," he told them. "The different races are separate and very diverse in culture and features, but that doesn't mean they can't get along."
The Freshlings looked skeptical, but also curious.
Cole smiled. "I'm betting none of you have heard the story of the Kind Vespercat and the Noble Flitterat."
The trio shook their heads. Everyone knew that Vespercats chased and ate Flitterats. Was this Nightmare suggesting that they could get along despite being natural predator and prey?
Laughing, the senior Chimera waved them over. "Well then, sit down and I'll tell you a special Winter Solstice story. It's one of my favorites." He waited until the three were gathered around and comfortable seated before taking a deep breath and beginning the tale.
"Once upon a time, there was a very quick and agile Vespercat who was the best Flitterat catcher in the area. He was so good at hunting that only one Flitterat managed to elude him, keeping her family safe and hidden.
"One fateful winter, though, the land and its creatures fell on hard times. There wasn't much food to go around and many began to starve. Since Vespercats eat a lot, the quick and agile hunter feline began to suffer sooner than most others. The Flitterat that always managed to elude him grew weaker too, but since her kind didn't need much to survive, she managed to store enough for herself and her young ones, feeding them with her milk.
"The Flitterat grew weaker and slower while the Vespercat grew more desperate. Finally, the Vespercat managed to corner the Flitterat on her way home and was just about to pounce, his stomach rumbling at the morsel he was going to eat. However, the Flitterat piped up a last request.
"'Please, Vespercat! Please wait. I would barely be a mouthful for you. Let me return to my family to feed them with my milk, for they cannot fend for themselves. If you let me go, I will return by tomorrow, the eve of the Winter Solstice, and bring back food I have set aside for myself. Then you can eat me along with what I have saved because I won't be needing it anymore.'
"The Vespercat was so hungry. His mouth watered, his body reduced to mere skin and bones. Because he was so hungry, though, perhaps he could empathize with the Flitterat's young, because he said, 'Very well. You have until tomorrow to return.' And with that, the Flitterat fled.
"Now, the Vespercat didn't actually believe the Flitterat would return. He felt that Flitterats were sneaky creatures that did whatever they could to live no matter how dishonest. But he knew his prey had been right about her only being a mouthful. 'Even if I ate her then, he thought, I would only be prolonging my death. She is the last Flitterat around, so I would have nothing left to hunt. What's a few more days of living, especially if they'd be in the slow suffering of starvation? I might as well die sooner.' So the Vespercat lay down and waited for death to take him.
"The next evening, though, to the Vespercat's great surprise, the Flitterat came back. She had with her the small sack of food she had talked about. My children are fed and we've said our goodbyes. I sent them to live with their aunt so they will continue to live. I thank you from the bottom of my heart,' she told the feline. 'I always thought Vespercats were vicious, merciless beasts, but you have showed me kindness beyond my imagining, so now it is my turn to repay you.' The Flitterat presented her sack to her predator, continuing. 'I know it's not a lot, but here is the extra food I spoke of. At least you will be able to make a decent-enough meal out of me.'
"The Vespercat was stunned by the Flitterat's sacrifice for her family as well as her honesty in returning despite it meaning her death. Touched by her nobility, he told her, 'No, my dear, dear friend. I will not make a meal out of you, for you have shown me that we have both been mistaken in our beliefs about each other. I am truly moved by your actions, for I did not think you would return. Go now to return to your family. Teach them your wisdom and perhaps more Vespercats and Flitterats will eventually understand one another as you and I have come to know each other.'
"At that moment, the gods smiled down on the Vespercat and Flitterat. They created a Winter Solstice miracle, making the meager food in the Flitterat's sack enough for both her and the Vespercat to share and live on comfortably until the spring. The two creatures became great friends and continued to remain so even when the season changed and the Flitterat returned to her family.
"Since then, every Winter Solstice, many Nightmares put out small scraps of food for both Flitterats and Vespercats so that they have no reason to fight for the meager supply that winter has to offer. They give the food as thanks to the Kind Vespercat and the Noble Flitterat for reminding them that even the greatest of natural enemies can find common ground, learn from, respect, and admire aspects of each other. Legend has it that on the eve of the Winter Solstice, Vespercats and Flitterats maintain a truce as a tribute to the friendship of their kin to this very day."
Story finished, Cole tilted his head at his listeners, wondering what they thought of his telling and its lesson. "And that, my dear ones, is why you must never underestimate others or make assumptions just because of differences. You never know - they might just be the best friend you haven't made yet."
If you used an existing story, please source it here: Based loosely on the story of The Cow and The Tiger with my own ending.
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Posted: Wed Dec 30, 2015 6:31 pm
Username: jinxgirl5
Preference: Geimera, Demon, Bapho
Entry: There was lots of light and laughter, the room warm and full of homey sounds. Topaz was in the middle of a cluster of children begging her for stories around her various adventures, of which she was only too happy to oblige. She'd shared a number of stories already, when one little Freshling piped up.
"What about a Solstice story? Do you have any of those?"
"Of course," Topaz replied, and began to wrack her brain. She knew several common classics and a few more specific to certain races and regions. Which should she tell? They probably knew all the common ones, so she pummeled her brain for the lesser-known stories. What could convey the meaning of Solstice? She smiled as one particular story came to mind. She'd always found it very touching, and a true reflection of the giving spirit people were capable of. A fitting story for the holidays.
"Once there were two Nightmares, a husband and wife. They were young and very much in love, but they were very poor. They possessed only two things of value that they held great pride in. One thing was the wife's hair. It was beautiful, like a waterfall of starlight-colored silk that fell down to her knees. Other Nightmares would look at the wife's hair with jealousy and wish that their own hair could be so soft and lovely. And the other thing was a special amulet owned by the husband, passed down to him from his father, who got it from his father. It was a beautiful amulet, polished gold and crystal, and held a simple but powerful protective enchantment. Many were jealous of the husband's amulet, both for its magic and lovely craftsmanship.
The holidays were coming, but they were too poor to afford gifts for each other. On the Eve of Givings Day, the wife, wishing with all her heart to give her husband a gift, took the few crystals she had saved and left the house. She went to a shop that specialized in wigs and she sold her hair, her pride and joy. With enough crystals in hand to buy a gift, the wife was able to find a most beautiful gold chain that her husband could string the amulet upon to wear. Gift wrapped in simple paper, she returned home to await her husband.
The wife arrived home and waited for her husband to return from work. He was oddly late. When he came through the door he paused to see her sitting at the table, hair gone. She was anxious, wondering if he would still find her pretty. She told her husband that she had sold her hair to buy him a gift, and handed him the present. He opened it and looked down at the chain, then slowly pulled a package from his coat pocket. The wife opened it, and found a most beautiful assortment of combs and accessories meant for long hair. You see, the husband also wished to give his wife a gift, and had sold his precious amulet to afford the combs."
Topaz paused in the story to smile at the upturned faces watching her. "The couple had sacrificed the things they prided most to get each other gifts neither could use. But they were both so happy, because they realized how far the other would go to show how much they loved and cared for them. In the end, that was the best present either could have asked for."
If you used an existing story, please source it here: Based on The Gift of the Magi
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Posted: Wed Dec 30, 2015 8:02 pm
Username: Kira of Flames
Preference: Geimera (Geist/Chimera), Bapho, Demon
Entry:
Mahuya was struggling with the little Freshlings she was with. They were supposed to be working on schoolwork, but instead all that could be focused on where the possibilities that Solstice and Santa Claws could bring the little ones and horribly off key joyous carols. The Nixie realized quickly that today wasn't going to be productive, and closed the books as she listened to the Freshlings babble to one another about what they were sure to get from Santa Claws. A small chuckle came from Mahuya as a gentle smile warmed her face as she remembered fondly her own excitement when she had been a freshling. Hm, maybe now would be a good time for a story...
"Well, you know about the one time where Solstice was nearly canceled, right?" She interjected to the freshlings, then fained surprise as they looked at her with confusion: no, they did not know! "Come, gather yourselves around and settle in, and I'll tell you all about it." Once all of the freshlings were in front of her, Mahuya began to spin her tale.
"There was one year where Solstice was almost ruined for everyone because of a careless spell. Someone had meant to fuel the joyous feeling of the season, and with the mistake of one syllable, turned every single person into grouchy, angry, bitter souls. No one felt like giving and instead took all they could, greedy to have more toys than everyone else. No one showed kindness to others and instead they pushed and shoved, making sure to look after one's self and no one else. There were no carols or feasts, no gatherings of friends and family, just bitterness and greed.
"It was horrible, and because of this, it was almost ruled that the celebrations would be canceled. There would be no gift exchanges, no presents, no feasts because it seemed that not a single nightmare or daydream would foster the spirit of the season and give instead of take. After all, if one does not give, there will be nothing to receive. Still, the crowds did not cease, and the shopping continued for the greed that consumed their hearts was great.
"In all of the crowds in the stores, the Nightmares all rushing about with no concern for others, a scream could be heard from the sea of bodies. A small freshling separated from their parents, lost and scared, was crying and wailing at the top of their lungs. Those close the him stoped, stunned and startled by the sound, but still no one moved to him. Then, out of the crowd, another freshling pushed themself through and ran to the crying boy and took his hand firmly. Turning back to the crowd, the brave little freshling frowned at them.
" 'What is wrong with everyone? Why will no one help find his mommy or daddy or big brother or sister?' The brave little freshling demanded, looking up at each of the adults with a fire. 'Wouldn't you want to have help if YOU were lost and afraid and couldn't find your family?'
"And something amazing happened. Those that looked on at the little freshlings remembered what it was like to have been so small, so excited, and so happy. A warmth filled their hearts, breaking the curse that had fallen over them, and they realized what had become of them. They felt ashamed of their actions, their greed and guilty that they had caused this freshling to be lost, and from that a new kindness and love was born from that Solstice. Together, the crowd searched for the lost freshling's family, not resting until he had found his way safe back into the embrace of his loved ones. Strangers that didn't know one another found common ground and became friends, families all gathered once more and those who had more gave to those who had less. What had once been almost the last Solstice ever now was the best and most joyous that anyone had ever experienced.
"And whatever happened to that lost little freshling and his brave savior? They became the best of friends and spent the Solstice playing games and sharing gifts. And that was how Solstice was saved that year."
Mahuya smiled down at each of the little ones as she brought her story to a close. "So remember, giving and kindness is just as important to Solstice as getting gifts. Now, I think I have some cookies that need eating. Who thinks they might be able to help me with that?"
If you used an existing story, please source it here: Nope, made it up!
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Posted: Thu Dec 31, 2015 2:25 pm
edited 12/31/15
Username: Mister Noodlesworth
Preference: Geimera (Geist/Chimera)
Entry:
Raiden pulls out a chair from the nearby desk and sits down and says “Gather round’ me now Little ones, let me tell you the tale of Santa Claws.” Raiden watches with a smile as he sees all the little freshlings gather around and sit in a half circle around him. “Now then are you little ones ready?” some freshlings are getting comfortable wrapping themselves in their blankets. “Twas the night before the winter solstice when all through the house not a demon was stirring not even a Geist.”
Raiden looks at all the freshlings staring at him some with smiles and some with faces of fear, he continues the story “the stockings hung so carefully by the chimney so that Santa Claws would see them when he makes his way down” at that moment Raiden looked at the group of freshling and at that moment one of them asked “why is Santa Claws coming down the chimney is he going to take the little kids away?” Raiden replied with a chuckle no little one he is coming down the chimney to bring the little freshling like yourself presents” the freshlling nodded at Raiden in acknowledgement “ Santa Claws with his magic made his way down the chimney he then saw the stocking that were hanging and put some evil little treats in them but at that moment when he was finishing the last stocking he stopped and turned and at the corner of the room at the end of the hallway in the house stood a freshling demon” all the freshling gasped at the same time “Gaspe” “Santa Claws with his super red cheeks and big nose started walking to the little freshling” one freshling in the group screamed noooooo as she covered her face with her blanket “Santa Claws then got down on one knee to get to the little freshlings height he then said why hello little one what are you doing up so late at night?
The little freshling without missing a heartbeat says “I got thirsty and wanted something to drink” “Santa Claws took the little freshling to the kitchen got her a drink and sent her to her room she turned around and said thank you sir, not knowing who this stranger was in her house she procced to to her and fell fast asleep” how could she not say something to her parents said a little freshling..why wasn’t she afraid asked another. Raiden replied she must have known he meant no harm now then “ Santa Claws proceeded to give presents and put them under the tree then in a blink of an eye he vanished before last snowflake could hit the ground, many hours later the family woke up to such a surprise when they saw presents under the tree. The little freshling ran towards the tree with such excitement, the mother looked at the father and asked him “honey? How did you manage to get all these gifts when we can’t afford all this stuff” ”the husband with a simple reply said I didn’t dear” they both stood there with suck shock on their face and started to wonder how all this could be possible, then the little demon found a letter she opened it and read it out load to her parents” Hope you have a wonderful winter solstice and enjoy the gifts” at the bottom of the page was a signature it read “Santa Claws” the father and mother looked like they have seen a ghost could all the stories be true could Santa Claws really have visited there home in the night. And as if on que the little with a “poof” disappeared and turned into snowflakes falling to the ground. It truly was Santa Claws that visited them at night and it was a winter solstice miracle that delivered present to this family in need.
Raiden looks at all the little freshlings around him some are fast asleep and others slowly falling asleep “come little ones” Raiden replied “it’s time to go to sleep” Will Santa Claws visit us tonight? Asked a little freshling. “he won’t come if your still awake” replied Raiden. And without hesitation all the little freshlings ran to their beds and went to sleep.
If you used an existing story, please source it here: The night before Christmas. some I made up myself.
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Posted: Thu Dec 31, 2015 7:41 pm
Username: Smerdle
Preference: Demon, Bapho, Geimera
Entry:
Bo wasn't sure how he'd gotten roped into telling a bunch of freshlings a Solstice story, but he had never been one to do things halfway, so if it was a Solstice story they wanted, he was going to give them the best damned Solstice story he could come up with. Minor setback: he had rarely sat still long enough to get much out of story time as a child, so he didn't quite know where to begin. Even so, as he stood around waiting for the kids to get settled, his imagination churned with possibilities. Once he knew he had the kids' full attention, Bo raised his arms, spreading his misty hands wide as if he was parting a curtain with his palms.
"I bring to you a Solstice tale of... epic awesomeness," he began, quickly falling out of a more stilted, grandiose speech pattern into his usual colloquial delivery.
"Once upon a time, Santa Claws was a junior, like me. Although he had classes and got given a lot of responsibilities at home, he was still in charge of handing out Solstice presents for all of Below. But being a junior can be tough, and I don't wanna say Santa got burnt out on giving things out or anything, but he kinda did. I mean, I wouldn't, but I don't have parents breathin' down my neck to go to class or do my homework all the time." The geist chuckled breathily, cutting himself off soon after the first huff of laughter escaped him. Maybe that hadn't been the best tangent to go off on.
"Stay in school, kids." He cleared his throat into his fist, grinning at the trio of toddlers near the front of the group.
"Anyway, Santa, right? He decided that he'd rather do his own thing than make everybody else happy, and I can get behind that, I guess. He ran away from the Academy—again, bad—and went east toward Stormgate, looking for something that made him happier than giving out presents. He found big trees to climb and ponds to swim in and wild fennekits to pet, but it all felt pretty stupid compared to what he was supposed to be doing."
"By the time Gift Giving Day arrived, Santa had reached the city. He found a place to drop off his stuff and was out wandering around by himself when he noticed the decorations. As he got closer to the lights, he saw a bunch of demons, baphomets, and litches gathered in the middle of the square. Santa kept getting nearer, his curiosity poking at him, and when he got within spitting distance of the group, a little Nightmare ran up and handed him a present! Even though he hadn't done his job this year, everyone in Stormgate still had a gift from someone else, and that gift probably made them about as happy as he was then."
"He felt a flutter in his stomach, a good one, not the kind you get when you're caught doing something wrong. Santa realized that while nothing was wrong yet, the longer he didn't do his job, the less people would follow his example and eventually everyone would forget all about Solstice and Gift Giving Day. They'd all be sad, and he couldn't have that. He thanked the little demon, turned around, and went back to school." Bo paused, scrubbing his hands on his ripped jeans.
"So, that's it! Santa's old now, but after his trip to Stormgate, he never thought about quitting ever again."
One of the freshlings in the front raised her hand, hopping to her feet when Bo pointed at her. "So what'd the demon get him?"
"Some... cheese. And a book about fish." He nodded definitively, a shallow smirk the only indication that he found all of this rather hilarious.
If you used an existing story, please source it here: This is just Bo's stream of consciousness gone wild. I apologize. :B
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Posted: Wed Jan 06, 2016 3:30 pm
AYYYYYY
we have winners~!
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Posted: Sat Jan 16, 2016 12:54 pm
Final Winner! After two rounds of voting that didn't produce results, we have decided to choose the story that we both liked the best.
We apologize for the delay in awarding this little freshling to you!
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