The Unicorn

The Unicorn Once upon a time… an incredible event occurred that was so sublime. On a warm summer night many years ago, awakened by the rhythmic tempo of hoof beats coming from the yard below, I peered outside my bedroom window. There on my lawn I was astonished to see, a silver-white unicorn peering back at me. Dressed in only a nightie, I dashed out my front door; and found him frolicking, prancing to and fro. Sparkling as he was under a silvery moonbeam, I wondered if this was only a surreal dream. He was handsome, noble, and dignified, so confident and assured trotting to my side. In awe of this mythical creature, I couldn’t speak, but gently patted him from cheek to glowing cheek. His well-groomed mane felt like satin and silk, with a faint scent of harvested hay and fresh milk. Then I heard from inside my head, a deep, masculine voice which stately said, “Your Majesty, it would be my great honor to take you on a tour of celestial wonder!” Reverently he bowed, as I, completely taken aback, hesitantly mounted his muscular unsaddled back. Time stood still as he swept me away, right through the heart of the magnificent Milky Way. We flew past amazing asteroids, planets, moons, and zillions of stars looking like fiery, bulging balloons. In flight, we traveled at the very speed of light, and I was exhilarated with unbridled delight. Returning me to Earth, he bowed his gallant head; and as I dismounted graciously said, “It’s been a pleasure, my dear Queen; so long, and I’ll see you in your dreams!” But even though our voyage of discovery was over, that mystical experience changed my life forever. Never again have I seen the unicorn on my lawn, but from time to time, between midnight and dawn, in my dreams, I hear a voice that’s oddly familiar call out my name in a velvety whisper. And somehow I know that it’s my old friend… who’ll be watching over me ‘til the end. 02-03-2017 Contest: Once Upon a Time Sponsor: Eve Roper Placement: 10th