
Fie and the Lion's Heart
By 寛史

10 Jul, 2023

The sun was about to set, and the valley of the Balloonist Clan was bathed in a golden hue. Among the many balloonists, there was one named Fie, a spirited boy of twelve, who was always ready for his daily adventure.

Fie belonged to a legacy of balloonists. From his ancestors, he inherited the gift of navigating the skies, using nothing but a hot air balloon and a compass. Every day, he explored new territories, always seeking new adventures.

His balloon was a sight to behold, painted in vivid hues of red and blue. The locals often gazed in wonder as Fie sailed across the sky. Today, his journey was taking him to the unexplored Lion Island.

The island was so named for the colossal statue of a lion that rested on its peak. It was a mysterious place, full of unknown dangers and wonders. Yet Fie, with the spirit of an explorer, feared nothing.

As Fie's balloon ascended, he looked down at the patchwork of fields and homes, seeming smaller as he rose higher. His heart pounded with excitement. He was on his way to Lion Island!

The journey wasn't easy. The weather turned cold and windy, and his balloon swayed dangerously. But Fie was brave and focused. He adjusted the burners and steadied the balloon.

As he got closer to the island, the majestic statue of the lion emerged from the haze. The sight was awe-inspiring, but also tinged with a certain fearsomeness. But Fie was unfazed.

Landing the balloon, Fie set foot on the island. The air was thick with the scent of unknown flowers, and from somewhere deep within the island, he could hear the sound of rumbling water.

Suddenly, a rustle in the bushes made him turn. He saw a pair of gleaming eyes staring at him. Fie gulped. These were not the eyes of a statue but a real, living lion!

But Fie was not deterred. He remembered the stories his grandfather told him about making friends with wild creatures. He extended his hand, trying not to look scared.

The lion, to his surprise, was curious rather than aggressive. It approached Fie, sniffing his hand. Fie remembered to stay still, letting the lion take its time.

In the days that followed, Fie and the Lion developed a unique bond. Fie would share his meals with the Lion and even showed it the views from his hot air balloon.

In return, the Lion led Fie to the best sources of food and water on the island. It also kept him safe from other wild animals. Their bond was indeed something special.

After several days on the island, it was time for Fie to return home. He bid farewell to his friend, promising to return. The lion watched as the balloon ascended into the blue sky.

Fie arrived back home to a hero's welcome. His adventures on Lion Island had circulated back home, and he was greeted with cheer and admiration. But he missed the Lion.

Time passed, and Fie grew older. But he never forgot his friend on Lion Island. He would often gaze at the island from the shore, the memories of their time together, always fresh in his mind.

The story of Fie and the Lion circulated through the years. It served as a reminder to the people of the Balloonist Clan about the beauty of friendship, courage, and exploration.

Fie's story is a testament to the spirit of adventure that lives within us all. And so, every time a balloon takes off from the Balloonists clan, it carries more than passengers, it carries Fie's spirit of courage and friendship.