I love to write and I published two fantasy novels a few years ago called FALCON'S PREY and LYMERIA. They are fun, easy reads for ages 9 and older and I'm told they are great for book reports! When FALCON'S PREY was published, I was asked to go to schools to talk about writing. I found that my talks were putting kids to sleep, so I needed to think of another way to keep them awake! I decided to to take examples from my books where the main characters had to overcome challenges and compare them to what kids in middle school are going through today. I introduced what I call THE PURPLE WIG THEORY and to keep things entertaining, I even put on a purple wig during the program. I called my program SHINE THROUGH. I never imagined that my SHINE THROUGH program would become so popular. I love presenting them to schools and youth groups. Having so many requests for a program for elementary grades, SHINE THROUGH is now available for grades 1 through 8!"How About This"Written and composed by Kristina Coia"The Way of Love"Written by Al Stillman, Jack Dieval. Chappell & Co., Music Sales Corp."All American Girl"Written and composed by Kristina Coia"National Anthem" Performed by Kristina Coia

HOME

ABOUT

MUSIC

KC LIVE

SHINE THROUGH

BOOKS

PHOTOS

CONNECT

HOME

ABOUT

MUSIC

KC LIVE

SHINE THROUGH

BOOKS

PHOTOS

CONNECT

HOME

Welcome to my website!

Kristina Coia

Music ~ Motivation ~ Make Believe

ABOUT

"Performing has always been a part of my life. It defines who I am and gives me something to believe in..."

Kristina Coia has always dreamed big dreams.

With accomplishments in all areas of the arts, Kristina has defined herself over the past few years as an author, a motivational speaker, an actress, a singer, and a songwriter.

She is a talented young performer with the determination to find her place among the stars.

MUSIC

selections from

kristina's demo cd

"How About This"

and more...

How About This
The Way of Love
All-American Girl
National Anthem

(Click on player to hear songs)

Copies of

"How About This" CD

are available upon request

How About This

The Way of Love

All american girl

national anthem

Kristina is a proud member of

ASCAP

KC LIVE

Kristina Coia singing "Iris"
Guys and Dolls
All American Girl
West Side Story
"Shine Through" Program

Kristina Coia singing "Iris"
Guys and Dolls
All American Girl
West Side Story
"Shine Through" Program

Featured Video

for more videos, visit Kristina's youtube page

SHINE THROUGH

Shine Through
WebQuiz 1
WebQuiz 2
Blog

Shine Through st_logo2 (2).jpg

Shine Through

was developed to encourage positive values and morals through the eyes of a peer.

Through the stages of Shine Through

~ Discovery ~ Experimentation ~ Being Comfortable With Who You Are

students learn how to acknowledge and understand the importance of being true to

themselves and the ability to say NO when faced with challanges in their lives.

Student interaction is encouraged!

Grades 3-8

If you would like to schedule a SHINE THROUGH Program at your school

please call toll free

MOBILE ED PRODUCTIONS, INC.

1-800-433-7459

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

Based on fairy tale characters, this program delivers the same messages on

anti-bullying and encouraging self-confidence ,

but in an even more playful and interactive environment.

The three stages follow a simple storyline:

~Be Creative~Be Yourself~Be Strong

Student & faculty participation is encouraged!

Grades K-4

WebQuiz 1

WebQuiz 1 - Which Magical Creature Are You?1. A new kid on his first day of school asks you to show him where the cafeteria is. You:A. Take him there, and then offer him half of your PB&J while telling him all about the school's extra cirricular activities.B. Trick him by sending him to the janitor's closet instead.C. Point to it. It's just down the hall!2. Your best friend loses her brand new bracelet. You:A. Make a pledge to never rest until it is found.B. Don't care. It's not your fault it's missing!C. Make her a new one with the bead kit you got for your birthday.3. Oh no! The power in your house is out because of a storm! Now what will you do?A. Invite the rest of your family to sing some campfire songs together.B. Mope around. Who can live without television.C. Cuddle up with a flash light and a fairy tale.4. You were so busy last night that you forgot to study for your English test! Now you're stuck on a really tough question. You:A. Hum that song about verbs that you made up weeks ago. Hopefully it will refresh your memory.B. Peek over at the person next to you. You can't help it if they don't cover their answers!C. Skip it and plan to come back to it later. Maybe it will come to you in a little while.If you picked mostly:A's - Your most like the Centaur! Centaurs are known for their hospitality and entertaining nature.If you picked mostly:B's - Your most like the Dragon! Dragons are hot-headed and known for being much too grumpy in the morning (and the rest of the day too).If you picked mostly:C's - Your most like the fairy! Fairies are kindly, generous, and tend to work best alone. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

WebQuiz 2

WebQuiz 2 - Are You Wearing a Mask?Coming soon!!!

Blog

Hey everyone!

Welcome to MY PURPLE WIG Blogspot!

This is where I talk about living life

and loving every minute of it!

Please click on the purple wig to read my blogs!

BOOKS

Lymeria
Falcons Prey

Lymeria

Lymeria
Coloring Pages
Character Chart
Bonus Chapter

Lymeria

Lymeria

by Kristina Coia

When a young girl finds a mysterious silver bauble in her grandmothers house,

a spellbinding, epic story begins.

Wynne, a kitchen maid, has led a humble life as a servant in the Monidek palace.

But her life changes forever when she discovers her magical powers and falls into

the trap of the evil wizard Cepheus.

Now she, the dashing Prince Jared, the beautiful Princess Avariella,

and the charming stable-hand Aric, must solve a series of magical riddles

in order to defeat Cepheus and save the world.

The four must learn the value of friendship, the power of love,

and the significance of faith in this enchanting and captivating tale.

Coloring Pages blackline

Click

PDF

Download

Wynne.pdf

Raine.pdf

Avariella.pdf

Character Chart LymeriaCharacter ChartWynneHer friends say shes: Generous and energeticFavorite color: Lily whiteShe says: The only thing I know to be true is this: all the people in those books follow their hearts, even as far as beyond the stars.Favorite thing to do: Ride her favorite horse, Raine, through the royal fields.JaredHis friends say hes: Kind and courageous Favorite color: Royal redHe says: I have faith in you. We all do. The problem is that you dont have faith in yourself.Favorite thing to do: Stargaze.AvariellaHer friends say shes: Proper and intelligentFavorite color: Sapphire blueShe says: Im a lot smarter than you think. Im a lot smarter than everyone thinks.Favorite thing to do: Read books. (But dont tell anyone!)AricHis friends say hes: Loyal and trustworthyFavorite color: Forest greenHe says: I dont know how much use Ill be, but Im going wherever shes going.Favorite thing to do: Tend to the royal horses

Bonus Chapter Lymeria Bonus Chapter (not in book)The Littlest HeroCmon Scerna. Dont be afraid. Shes Wynnes horse. She wont hurt you! Lerick comforted his little sister as he petted Raine on the nose. The horse stayed very still; she knew that she had to behave now that she was the Queens Royal Mare. Scerna was still frightened.But, Lerick, youre only ten years old! You cant be a hero like in those storybooks! Youre just too small! She tugged on his hand, wishing he would heed his warnings.I am, too, old enough! If Prince Tanwyd in that story could have an adventure, then so can I! said Lerick, and opened the door to Raines stall while little Scerna cowered behind.***Everythings been looking up since King Jared and yourself let us work here at the palace, said Mira to Queen Wynne. The kitchen was full of life, as always.Well, someone had to take my place! smiled Wynne. Im glad you and the children like it here.Oh, yes, your Majesty, Mira responded. The little one has finally had some peace and quiet in the palace nursery. And Lerick and Scerna have had such a marvelous time exploring the palace. Ive hardly seen them since we moved here! Im so glad that theyre happy again. All thanks to you!You are always welcome in my home, Mira, said Wynne. She patted Mira on the shoulder. I guess I must get back to the throne room. Theres a never-ending pile of decrees to sign! Ill see you at dinner, then!Good day, your Majesty! said Mira as Wynne departed. Now, let me get back to baking those egnaro pastries***I still dont think this is a good idea, Lerick, Scerna said worriedly as her brother lifted her up onto Raines back. The boy then swung himself onto the yellow-colored horse.You can trust me, Scerna. Im the hero in this adventure. I wont let anything happen to you! he replied.How can I be sure? asked Scerna as she wrapped her arms tightly around her brothers waist.Well, Lerick said, craning his neck to look back at her, youre the damsel. The hero never lets anything bad happen to the damsel! And, with that, he urged Raine forward and out of the stable, his little sister clinging tightly to him.The day was warm and sunny. Prince Lerick sought out an adventure in the palace gardens. Princess Scerna was still uneasy about the whole idea. She wished that her brother didnt always take things so literally. Every time Wynne had come to their home and read to them, Lerick always wanted to play Prince and Damsel. They had never had a real horse or a real palace to play with before. But now that they lived in Queen Wynnes castle, they had everything they needed to play the game: a real horse, a real palace, and real danger.This is our first stop, my lady, said Lerick as he pulled on the reins and slowed Raine to a halt. They were in the rose garden surrounded by the sweet smelling blossoms. Lerick jumped down from the horse, then helped his sister down. This is where I rescue you from a tower.Scerna raised an eyebrow. Are you sure this is a good place? I dont see any towers around.Lerick looked around the garden. There were some stone benches...No. Not high enough.There were a few treesNope. They were too scrawny.There it was! Lerick spotted a water fountain over by the yellow roses. It was perfect!Cmon, Scerna! Ive found you a tower! Lerick grabbed his sister by the hand and pulled her away, leaving Raine to munch on a few blossoms. The fountain had been turned off for the evening, leaving only a few stray puddles inside.Scerna clambered in with a little help from Lerick. She made sure her hair was tidy and straightened her dress. Alright, Lerick, she said when she had finished. Im ready now!Lerick plucked a stray tree branch off the ground and brandished it over his head. I have traveled very far to rescue you from this tower, fair lady! Ive slain twenty dragons, sailed a hundred oceans, fought a thousand armies, climbed a thousandI get the point, Lerick! Get on with it! Scerna said, crossing her arms impatiently.Alright, fine, your Highness, Lerick retorted. Scerna stuck her tongue out at him.My lady, if you wish to be rescued, send me a sign! he called.Scerna looked around. Will a flower do?Lerick rolled his eyes. Youre not supposed to ask me! Youre just supposed tonever mind, then. A flower is fine. Just send it down, already!So Scerna twisted a yellow rose off its stem, careful not to touch the thorns, and tossed it over to Lerick.He put it to his nose and sniffed it, then tucked it into his shirt pocket. And, now, fair lady, I shall save you from your tower, and we shall run away to my palace where you shall become my queen!But, Prince, Scerna called back, if you take me away, the evil dragon will be very angry with you! You will have to fight him!It will not be a problem, my lady! For I, Prince Lerick, have slain twenty dragons, sailed a hundred oceans, fought a thousand armies, climbed a thousandJust rescue me, already! And so, Lerick rescued Scerna from her tower, helped her onto his royal mare, and the two rode off to find their dragon.***Mira pulled the steaming egnaro pastries from the oven and set them onto the table. The sun was setting outside and the children had not yet come inside from playing. She was starting to get worried***Have you found the dragon yet, Lerick? Its starting to get dark! Maybe we should skip the dragon part of the story, said Scerna from behind.We have to include the dragon! Thats the fun part! I cant just skip to the castle part! We need to find a dragon! said Lerick as he led Raine through the vegetable garden.Just then, Tussle, the kitchen dog meandered by, heading back to the kitchen after his evening stroll.Thats it, Scerna! Tussle can be our dragon! said Lerick.Thank goodness, said Scerna.Lerick hopped down off Raines back and brandished his stick-sword again. I challenge you, foul dragon, to a duel! The winner gets to keep the lady! Do you accept these terms?Tussle raised a floppy ear. All he wanted to do was nap by the kitchen stove.Come on, Tussle! Ill give you a belly rub! Please? Scerna called, still sitting on the horse.Scerna, Lerick began, you cant talk like that to a dragon. Dragons are mean and nasty! Tussle growled. Lerick continued, You cant be all polite! You have to be heroic, like me!No you dont! she shouted back. Mother said you have to be kind to everyone, even if theyre mean and nasty. Isnt that right, Tussle?The old dog woofed in agreement. Lerick crossed his arms. Fine, then. Tussle, will you please be the dragon for us?Tussle trotted in a circle and sat at Lericks feet, his tail wagging happily.Have at thee, then! cried Lerick, and the two ran about the vegetable garden, chasing each other among the rows of cabbage and lettuce. Scerna clasped her hands, adding oohs and ahhs when it seemed most fitting.Tussle, though old, was the faster of the two, and managed to get the better of Lerick.Stop that, boy! Stop it! Tussle was on top of Lerick, licking his face. Dragons are supposed to roast their victims, not slobber all over them! Stop it, boy! Tussle woofed in victory.Scerna giggled. I thought you were supposed to win, Lerick!Oh, but the fight is not over yet, fair lady! I just let him think hes won! And, at that, he began to rub the dogs belly.Tussle couldnt resist a belly rub. He rolled over onto his back and let his tongue hang out to the side. Lerick stood and picked up his sword. Tussle didnt move; he was still dazed from his belly rub.I have won your freedom, my lady! Lerick shouted. Now you must come back to the castle with me and we can have some dinner!That sounds very good, said Scerna. Lerick began to hoist himself up onto Raine, when he heard someone calling from behind.Who destroyed my cabbages?I think its time to go! Lerick whispered, and urged Raine forward as quickly as possible. They raced out of the garden before anyone could see what had happened.***Queen Wynne and King Jared had just sat down to dinner when Mira rushed in. Your Majesties, I need your help.What is it, Mira? asked Wynne.Its dark out and the children havent come inside yet! Im very worried. Is there any way you can help?Jared stood. Well go look for them with you. It will be faster if we split up.Mira stepped back. I couldnt ask you to do that. But, Queen Wynne, if there is any way you can use your magic to show me where they areYes, of course, Wynne replied. She closed her eyes.Foriath Ni-hamdaForiath Ni-leshemLidiamre o AiliaMusta bellei perialon.Then, in midair before them, a shining orb appeared. The perialon bobbedup and down, its white light illuminating the walls of the dining hall. Slowly, within its depths, an image of two children appeared.Mira gasped. Theyre in the gardens, all alone!And theyve taken Raine! Jared added.We must find them quickly! said Wynne. Graaji sein-tri-ci perialon. The orb of light flickered once, then dissolved into the air.***Lerick, its dark out! I want to go back to the castle! Scerna whimpered.Lerick sighed. Im trying, Scerna! Ill figure it out!I think were lost, Lerick! Im frightened! I want to go home!Were not lost! Heroes never get lost. And, you shouldnt be frightened, my lady. Its my duty to keep you safe, just like Prince Tanwyd in the story, Lerick said, though he was a bit afraid, himself.The two children had been riding through the garden for what seemed like agesthrough hundreds of flowers and trees, bushes and hedgessearching for the way back to the castle. All of a sudden, the two felt tiny droplets of water splash on their hands and faces. It was starting to rain.Lerick, I dont want to play this game anymore, Scerna cried. I want to go home, Lerick! Take me home!I will! I promise! he replied, and urged Raine forward.Ever since Raine became the Queens Royal Mare, she learned to behave with riders other than Wynne. But the one thing she hadnt overcome yet was her fear of loud noisesespecially thunder.CRASH!The horse whinnied, kicking up her front legs. The two children clung to her tightly. She straightened again and shook her head violently, pawing the ground nervously.Quick, Scerna! We need to get off! Lerick shouted, and swung down onto the ground, then helped his sister down as well. He then put his hand out to try and calm the frightened horse when another bolt of lightning shattered the night sky.CRASH!Raine whinnied and bolted, sending Lerick stumbling backward. She was long gone in a matter of seconds.What do we do now, Lerick? Scerna whispered.I dont know, Scerna. I dont know***Raine! Where did you come from? Where are the children? Wynne asked as she petted Raines head, trying to calm her. The horse tossed her head, pointing toward the path she had just come from. Wynne understood and hoisted herself up onto Raines saddle, and they raced to Lerick and Scernas rescue.***Im sorry that I got you into this. You were right, Scerna. I really am too small for this, Lerick said as he hugged his sister close. They were huddled underneath a willow tree, hiding from the storm.No, Lerick. You were right, said Scerna.Lerick looked down at her. What do you mean?Well, you promised me that you would protect me. And you did, Lerick! You are a hero! At least, you are to me. Youre the best hero I have ever met, Lerick! she hugged him tightly.I guess we are alright. We arent hurt, were just a bit soggy, thats all. And, once this rain clears up, well get to the palace and have our dinner.That sounds good, whispered Scerna. That sounds very good.Lerick! Scerna! Where are you? a voice called.Lerick sat up straight. Were over here!Its Queen Wynne! Ive come to take you back to the palace!Scerna grinned at her brother. I told you!The willow branches parted and Wynne crawled under the tree, her shadow darkening the childrens faces. Are you two alright?They both nodded and Wynne smiled. What in the name of Lymeria were you two doing out here so late?Scerna giggled. Its a very long story.Wynne took Scernas hand and led the two out from their hiding place. Well, I cant wait for you to tell me the story over dinner, she said. Then, Wynne, Lerick, and Scerna headed back home.***Thank goodness youre not hurt! Mira said as she hugged Lerick close. They all sat around the royal dining table, sharing a well-deserved meal.Youre quite a hero, Lerick, said Jared. Lerick blushed.Scerna bounced up and down in her seat. Hes the bravest hero I know! He saved me from a tower, fought off a dragon, and kept me out of the rain! Hes even more of a hero than Prince Tanwyd! And thats saying a lot!When the meal was finished and the two children were almost asleep, Scerna whispered to her brother. That was a fun game today.Yes, it was fun, wasnt it? he replied.She giggled and yawned. I cant wait to play again tomorrow.He yawned, too. Sure.Lerick?Yes, Scerna?I love you, Lerick.Yes. You, too, Scerna.Ill see you in the morning, Prince Lerick.Goodnight, Princess Scerna.And the two fell fast asleep. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This is my second novel which I wrote and published when I was 16.

Click on Book Cover to order.

Falcons Prey

Falcons Prey
Word Find
Bonus Chapter
Lullaby

Falcons Prey Falcon's Preyby Kristina CoiaFor years, the two kingdoms of Delmaa and Prantarr coexist peacefully. But when months of unprecedented rainfall cause a landslide of mud and rock to close the only route of commerce between the two countries, that peace is shattered. With war erupting between the nations, Princess Cristiana Ana of Prantarr and her brother must flee for their lives over a range of treacherous mountains to the safe land of Lentanne. En route, they meet Darius, a mysterious Delmish stranger, who joins them on their journey. When a fierce attack by a falcon kills, two must continue their journey alone.Confronted by dragons, mermaids, the forces of nature, and an array of magical creatures, they struggle to find their way over the mountains. Through it all, Ana learns to believe in herself and discovers just how strong she really is, for the hardest task is yet to come. Everything Ana knows to be true is turned upside down and a choice must be made...

Word Find Falcon's Prey Word FindHidden Word Story Word PageRoyal Prince Layor Ecalap 44Noble Elbons 44Magical Lacigam 47Bread Daerb 53Ripe Epir 53Land Dnal 79

Bonus Chapter Falcon's Prey Bonus Chapter (not in book) The Story of Sir Norr the Centaur How is it I came to be a dragon slayer, you ask? Young Princess Ana wondered the same thing when she first saw my tapestry upon the wall of the Layor Ecalap. Well, to tell the story, I have to start from the very beginningSurely it is uncommon for a centaur to be known for knightly deeds. We have mostly been remembered for the ways we have helped others with our magic. (Except for Sir Leonard the Uncoordinated. No one really wants to remember him)My story actually begins long ago in the kingdom of Anavrin, in my home of the Western Lands, when I was just a boy. (Actually, I was 87, which is a bit older than a boy in your eyes.) My home was within a centaur herd, who have lived in the Western Lands for centuries, and have always been able to avoid dragon attacks.You see, our clan has always relied on our leaders magic to protect us. Our Alpha was a powerful magician and could calm any savage beast simply by playing his lyre. But, at the time, the Alpha had come down with a bad case of the Centaur Chills, a virus that makes even the warmest summer day seem frozen. The Centaur Chills are easy enough to cure; you must stay under exactly ten wool blankets, fast asleep, for precisely forty-eight hours.When a small centaur foal spotted the dragon off in the distance, the entire herd fell into a panic. No one knew what to do! The only way they could be saved was if the lyre was played by someone with Bard-Magic, or the magic of song. But no one knew of any Bard-Magics but the Alpha! Not one centaur even knew how to play a lyre!I was working as an apprentice to my uncle in his store which sold magic potions. Quite honestly, I didnt like potions very much. Who could possibly enjoy mixing brews made of bat wings and toads warts? My secret love was music. I would often daydream about playing songs for kings and wizards alike, but I knew that my place was working in the potions shop.That day, my uncle burst into the shop, shouting, The Alpha needs some of my Quick Fix potion! He needs to play for the dragon! He needs to save the herd! He needs some Quick Fix potion! Quick! Quick! He rushed past all his customers and into the storage room, nearly knocking over a shelf of Turn-Into-Frog potions. I excused myself from the front counter and went to see what my uncle was up to.He was standing on the tips of his hooves, trying desperately to reach a blue-green jar on the very top shelf.Here, Uncle, I said. I can reach it! But my uncle was a stubborn centaur and wouldnt trust an apprentice to do his job.I can handle it, Norr, he said as he wobbled. The whole wall of shelves began to teeter as he leaned on them to get closer to the blue-green bottle. Go back to the counter where you belong. The bottles began to quiver as my uncle reached higher. Youre just a foal, Norr, he said. The more he leaned on the shelves, the more they shook. This is an important duty. I must hand-deliver the potion to the Alpha myself. Its no job for an apprentice!Just then, the shelves gave way, and dozens of jars of potions came crashing down. Sparks flew and smoke sizzled, rainbows of light exploded from the room in a magical storm. I threw my hands in front of my face. Customers poked their heads into the doorway to see what was going on.When the smoke finally cleared, I looked around the room to see what the damage was. My uncle was no where to be found! I stepped carefully around broken jars, trying desperately not to step in the Swooning-Love potion or on the puddle of I-Cant-Believe-Its-Not-Glue. I was about to put my hoof down, when I heardRibbet!Oh, no. Ribbet!I reluctantly peered down to find that my uncle had been turned into a frog. What else could go wrong? Now, my uncle could never deliver the Quick Fix potion to the Alpha! What were we to do? The dragon was hardly two hours away!Wait a minute. I could take the potion to the Alpha, myself! And then, maybe, my uncle could appreciate me as more than just an apprentice! But wait! What if the Quick Fix potion bottle was broken? I looked around.No, that wasnt it.No, that one was the Instant Oatmeal potion.What was that in the corner? I leaned over and brushed away splinters of wood. It was the blue-green bottle, and it was still intact! I picked it up and placed it gently into my shirt pocket, then turned toward my now-frog uncle.Wish me luck, Uncle! I wont let you down! I started to head out of the door, then turned back again. I promise, when I get back, Ill try to change you back to a centaur.Ribbet!***When I got to the Alphas tent, I became nervous. I had never gone to the Alpha by myself before. He was very kind, but still, I felt uneasy. What if I said something wrong? But, before I could run away, a guard stepped out and addressed me.What is your business, son? he asked.IIve come from the potions shop, sir. Ive brought some Quick Fix potion. My uncle thinks it will help to cure the Alpha.Well, then. Come in. The guard held open the door flap of the tent, and I stepped inside. The tent looked no different than my familys, and we were nowhere as wealthy. The Alpha slept on a plain sleeping mat, no bigger than mine. A few Medicine-Magic centaurs were gathered around, chatting quietly and writing on pieces of parchment.One of them came over to me.Are you the one with the potion? he asked.I nodded my head.Well, Im not sure its going to work, but well try it anyway.I nodded again and reached into my pocket, pulling out the bottle carefully. I handed it to the Medicine-Magic centaur, and he uncorked it. A thin wisp of blue-green smoke floated from the bottle, and suddenly, the whole room smelled like the ocean. The other two centaurs helped to pour some of the potion into the Alphas mouth while he still slept.We waited. And waited. And, finally, after one hour, one of the centaurs announced, It didnt work. I sighed. How would we ever defeat the dragon now?Then, something leaning against the wall caught my eye. I hadnt noticed it there before. It was the royal lyre, gold and glistening within a glass case. A crazy idea popped into my head.What if I tried to play the lyre and calm the dragon? It probably would never work, but it was the only hope we had! But first, I had to distract everyone inside the tent. I thought fast.What was that noise? I shouted. They all looked around.What noise, son? one asked. I didnt hear anything!Its the dragon! The dragon is here! I waved my arms. Didnt you hear its mighty roar?We must flee! a Medicine-Magic centaur cried.No, we should fight! shouted another.The centaurs all argued in a panic, rushing outside to see where the dragon was. I crept over to the lyre and grabbed it, case and all, and headed out the back of the tent.The glass case was heavier than I had expected. When I was far enough away from the tent, I knelt and opened the case. The lyre sparkled even brighter in the direct sunlight. I pulled it out and placed the carrying-strap around my neck. Then, quickly, I headed toward the forest, where I knew I would find the dragon.***Why cant I get this right? I asked no one in particular as I strummed the lyres strings. I had been walking for a while, and had not yet reached the dragon.Ive figured out how to play it, but it doesnt sound nearly as good as when the Alpha plays it! How am I ever going to calm the dragon, now?I was losing hope quickly. This idea was never going to work. I sat down on the damp forest floor in shame. I strummed the lyres strings absently, waiting for the dragon to come and eat me. I would make a good appetizer before it ate the whole herd.Thats not how you play the lyre, said a voice from behind. I turned around and saw no one except a little gray rabbit, sitting on its haunches.Whos there? I called.Dont you have eyes? Im right in front of you! it said. I couldnt believe it. The rabbit just spoke to me. Was I really that crazy? The little furry thing hopped over to where I sat. You cant play a lyre like that! Its disrespectful! You should be ashamed!I stared at it wide-eyed. How can youTalk? it said. Oh, I guess Im still a rabbit. Sorry about that. And, with that, the rabbit transformed into a scrawny little boy, right before my eyes.Is this better? he asked.WhyyesI guess so I replied in astonishment.Good, then. Let me introduce myself. My name is Bernard, and I am a shape-shifter of the forest, the boy said.Oh! Youre a shape-shifter! That does make sense, I said, still a bit bewildered. My name is Norr.Well, then, Norr. I must teach you how to play the lyre properly, said Bernard.You know how to play?Where do you think lyres come from, magic moths? My family makes them. Its our profession. We make all kinds of instruments for Bard-Magic centaurs, he explained. Are you a Bard- Magic centaur? If you are, youre not very good at it.Actually, I began, Im not sure what type of magic I am. But I will find out soon enough. All centaurs find out eventually. But Im sure Ill be a Potion-Magic centaur, just like my father and my uncle, and their father before them.Do you like potions?Actuallywellno. I rather dislike them. But I have no choice!Are you positive youll become a Potion-Magic? Because centaurs dont often dislike the magic they receive. I think you look like a Bard-Magic. That is, if you try hard enough. Bernard spoke as if he were an expert. Do you want to learn to play the lyre or not?Of course I do! I know how to make a tune, but I cant seem to figure out how to make a song.Bernard plopped down onto the ground beside me and held out his hand. I removed the instrument from around my neck and passed it to him.Thats because the strings dont make a song. You do, he said. He strummed a few strings. Thats not a song. Thats not music. Here, he said, and passed the lyre back to me. You try it.I looked down at the strings and then closed my eyes. I plucked one string, and then another. I tried very hard not to think about what my hands were doing, and focused on the song I was creating.Soon enough, I heard beautiful music, not the silly little tune I had played before.Youre doing it! You are a Bard-Magic centaur! I knew it all along. Bernard said.I was really playing the lyre! I was a Bard-Magic! No more potions for me!The song ended, and I felt overjoyed.Bernard, I said, how could I ever thank you?Dont thank me! I had to do something about that awful playing before it was too late! But, youre welcome anyway.Say, Bernard?Yes?Do you want to help me fight a dragon?Bernard raised his eyebrows. You centaurs are weird. But, I dont need to be home for supper until after dark, soalright!***It was not long before we heard the dragons mighty roar.KRAKKAAAW!Bernard quickly turned into a rabbit and darted under the nearest bush. I swallowed hard and gripped the lyre tightly. Out from behind the trees came the dragon, its silver and green scales shimmering brightly.This wasnt just any dragon. This was Ivana the Terrible, the most feared dragon in all of Anavrin. And I was the only one who could stop her.She spotted me in a moment, and her eyes seemed to pierce me with hunger and ferocity. I shuddered, but held the lyre high above my head. It was not the first time she had seen it.She roared again, this time, it was a mocking sound, almost like laughing. She knew that I was no more than a foal, and didnt believe that I could work the lyres magic.Bernard poked his rabbit head out from under the bush. You can do this, Norr! Just remember what I told you, and youll be fine! And hurry, before youre toast! Literally!With shaky hands, I began to play.O, how the morningCame this dayIn fearful criesAnd disarray.The dragon cryRang louder stillBut naught could cureThe eerie chill.The potion-makersCure was triedBut, no cureDid it supply.The music, takenFrom the tentBoldly to theForest went.And here he playsTo calm the beastAnd send her gentlyOff to sleep.So listen, dragon.Hear me, true.On this day,Ive defeated you.I looked up slowly when my song was done, expecting the worst. But, to my surprise, the dragon was fast asleep! I had done it! I had calmed the dragon!Nice work, Norr! Bernard stepped out from behind the bush, in human form. Now, what?Well, the herd usually works together to move the dragon back into the forest, where it sleeps for a few weeks. Then, when it wakes up, it doesnt remember anything that happened, which is good, because otherwise, it would want revenge on the herd. But instead, it heads home until it remembers. That usually takes a few years! I replied.Thats great, Norr! You can go home a hero!I can, cant I? But the Alpha will probably be angry at me for taking his lyre.Well, maybe he wont be, Bernard suggested. Hey, Norr...Yes, Bernard?Youll come back to visit me here in the forest, wont you? Maybe slay a couple ogres, or something?Of course, Bernard. I think were going to be good friends for a very long time.Wonderful! Maybe next time, I can teach you all about skunk hunting! Im really good at that!I think Ill pass.Norr?Yes, Bernard?Ill see you later.Goodbye, Bernard. I said, and turned to leave the forest.Goodbye Norr! Bernard called.***And thats how I became a dragon-slayer. When the Alpha woke up, he wasnt angry with me at all. In fact, he was so grateful, he even let me keep the lyre! Ever since, I have been the official Bard-Magic centaur of my herd! Bernard and I have remained good friends ever since, and eventually, he did teach me how to go skunk-hunting. Thats a story Id rather not tell.Oh, and I almost forgot! My uncle was turned back into a centaur, though he never could get rid of that ribbet soundNow that you know the story of how I defeated Ivana the Terrible, I hope you also know the moral of the story. Nothing is impossible as long as you believe in yourself. (Also, dont let your friend talk you into skunk-hunting. But thats a story for another day) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lullaby

The Way Home

This lullaby can be found on pages 95 & 96 in Falcon's Prey.

It is the first song I wrote and recorded at age 15.

I hope you like it!

The Way Home

This is my first novel which I wrote and published when I was 15.

Click on Book Cover to order.

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