The Soul of the Wildlands

Written by George Sanders

The mayor and her chief of staff hurried around the courtyard to put the last place settings on the tables. The chief of staff went over a mental checklist while the last utensils were straightened.

"First, you'll give the greeting. Then we will distribute the food. Ribbons and string will be delivered to each table after the meal is over. Do you think we should have baskets for everyone to store donations while they eat? What am I thinking? Of course, there should be baskets."

The chief of staff job appeared to be the only thing the colorful Tawo took seriously. Other chores and tasks were done chaoticly. Creative disinterest ruled the Tawo's day until the mayor called. The mayor stepped over to her devoted friend. They were her rescuer and hero, and a little over the top today.

The mayor took her friend's hand and spoke. "Gift, do you remember what you said a year ago? Wind and fire started this mess. You are like the wind today. Share my calm for a moment."

The town hall nearly burned to the ground that night a year ago. Since then, two of them have been governing this small community. They tackled a thousand challenges, big and small. In most ways that could be counted, they had huge success.

The mayor continued, "The entire community will have a wonderful evening. Even if we forget a spoon."

Gift looked down at the place setting beside them. "No!" She stomped off to get another spoon.

When Gift returned, the mayor stopped them again. "What trinket and wish will you put on the tree tonight?"

Gift put their arms on their hips when they replied, "Lavani. I have everything I ever wanted helping you."

Lavani replied. "I know self-reflection may not be your favorite thing, but I still have that dream about a door you need to open."

Gift waved the mayor's concern off with a laugh, "I open doors every day."

The mayor replied with an order. "I'd like you to read some of the gifts put on the tree. Each one you read and add to the wind will allow you to grow and bind you to the donor's dream."

Gift looked at the mayor for a moment. "I knew there was some fey magic involved in the ceremony! I knew it!"

Lavani smiled. "Yes, but you must help the donors step toward their dream."

The two of them laughed and planned for hours. The Festival of Gifts did not start until dusk, and the sun still had a ways to go. The mayor knew from the time Gift helped pull her from the burning town hall that there was an important aspect hidden within them. Fate would demand a realignment, but for now, they could enjoy the festival. Her friend deserved that, too.

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