The Light Fury

Standing upon the very edge of the pointed cliff, the light fury watched the morning sun as it hung low in the sky. The golden globe still making its crawling journey up into the soft grey skies. Without a single cloud in sight, a silent decision was made within the dragon’s thoughts. A soft snort and what one might have claimed to be a nod of her large head seemed to have settled it.

     “ AH! ”With a surprised yelp, he watched as she took off like a frightened street cat, into the bushes and deeper into the forest treeline. Having wiggled her haunches and shoulders reminiscent of a dog, Kubo assumed that she was just playing.

      … That doesn’t excuse the fact that she had his shamisen in her mouth! Not even a moment later, he bolted after her without hesitation. These woods are not thick; the bushes are low and the cedar trees are tall and well apart from one another, so navigating isn’t difficult. Keeping up with the beast, however, is another matter entirely. He could pump his legs and keep himself running well past the point of burning lungs, but Kubo is still no match for ARASHI when it comes to speed. The child dodges branches and hops over bushes, trying to reach her.

        HE JUST HOPES SHE WON’T BREAK IT … She can’t break it, can she – “ OW! ” One clumsy misstep causes him to briefly wedge his foot under a root, and Kubo goes flying a few inches ahead, skirting just a short ways into the dirt on his side. He manages to shield his face with an arm to save himself from face planting.

The dragon’s quick steps skid to an immediate halt at the sound of Kubo’s cry, her pale head snapping around to watch as he fell onto the earth. Their one-sided game is forgotten as concern floods the light fury, her playful attitude silenced in an instant. She watches for a mere moment, looking to see if her boy will get up on his own; but, when he remains there on the ground, her paws lead her back to him. Retracing her steps to bring her to his side.

Stringed instrument still held tightly in her jaws, the white female gingerly crouches down to his level, crooning and softly whining as her soft snout nudges at the child’s arm.