Falling Stars [Story]

Nights upon the islands were tolerable, till the seasons began to shift and change. The soft crunch of snow underfoot gave away the presence of someone, an older anteosaurus, walking with purpose through the cold terrain. Though covered in a thick fur like pelt, he still shivered in the cold night air, each breath a visible reminder of how icy and miserable it was. With a grunt, the creature pulled himself up onto a rock to gain a vantage point. Looking up towards the sky, streaks of falling stars seemed to ebb and flow, the meteor shower a sight to behold to any onlooker, but that wasn't what this old creature was focused on. 

 

In the distance there was a soft, yet warm glow emitting from what looked like an old museum. Word had spread far and wide among the Kiama Isles about a carnival, and Erra wanted to know more. With another huff, the anteo launched himself from his vantage point, now increasing his pace towards the distant glow of the bustling festival. Even so far he could hear the chatter of others, and though weary of going towards a crowded place, he still wanted to see what this whole event was about. Plus with how bitterly cold it was, it was hard for anything to not want to converge on the warm glow of the museum. 

 

As he grew closer, Erra squinted his eyes to get a better view before approaching any closer. There seemed to be just about every known species here, and while Erra didn't mind the herbivores having fun and socializing amongst themselves, it was hard to not be weary of the other much larger carnivorous species present. For a brief moment the brown pelted anteo debated walking away entirely. Surely this wouldn't be worth it, right? As his mind turned his eyes caught a glimpse of something worth investigating further, followed by an all too familiar scent. Erra wasn't sure what to expect, but after all what is a festival without food?

 

Amongst the very same dinosaur species Erra was weary of, there was a bountiful feast. So many different carcasses from different creatures and all the carnivores sharing and laughing amongst one another. It was a scene straight out of a dream. Usually outside of this event they would be tearing away at one another for the chance to get food, but with so much to eat in excess, there wasn't a need for violence. Without anymore hesitation Erra quickened his pace and approached the bustling party. 

 

"Welcome traveler!" a voice rang through the crisp air, the sound making Erra jump for a moment before his eyes landing upon a unique  looking oviraptor. 

 

"Greetings, I presume you are in charge of this event?" Erra spoke with a gruff voice, though he was weary of everyone here, his eyes still had not broken contact with the free food provided.

 

The oviraptor beamed and nodded their head, "But of course! I am Ringmaster Cheron. Welcome! Please make yourself at home, and enjoy the festivities!" 

 

Before Erra could say another word the oviraptor darted off to welcome new attendants approaching from behind him, "Not a bad host I suppose..." Erra whispered under his breath. Turning his attention back towards the feast, he trotted over, mouth watering and stomach grumbling.

 

It was almost overwhelming the choices in which were provided. Deer, rabbit, fish, even some questionable meat that Erra couldn't pin down it's origin. Regardless he picked himself out a decent size rabbit before dragging it from the heart of the action to his own secluded spot. He was polite and well spoken, but big groups weren't necessarily his forte, especially given all the significantly larger carnivores present. 

 

Quietly he ate away at his food, the still warm body a heavenly taste. Even without socializing directly he couldn't help but people watch and listen to all those in attendance. It was interesting, seeing so many different dinosaurs from different places and different lives converge to one event. There were some from Morpheus labs, some from Atlantis, and some like Erra from just normal places scattered amongst the islands. It was truly a sight to behold, and even though Erra didn't dare interact with anyone too much, it was still a fun and enjoyable evening event for him. 

 

A slight breeze stirred his fur and he looked up once more, the meteor shower even with the warm glow was visible, a true spectacle to behold. As shooting star after shooting star whizzed overhead Erra found himself looking back to the crowd of the festival. Old, young, big and small, everyone was there. The old anteo couldn't help but allow a warm smile to grow across his face. So rarely did he see so many different dinosaurs with all different backgrounds come together peacefully. The ohhs and ahhs of the crowd as the stars above seemed to dance for their entertainment and celebrate their convergence, just made it more and more of a wholesome of a get together. The festival was a success from how Erra viewed it, and all attending dinosaurs didn't even have to get involved to enjoy the warmth and food it provided. 

 

"Lovely isn't it?" The same familiar voice broke Erra from his thoughts, causing the old anteo to spring back to his feet. 

 

"You startled me." His tone softening as his eyes rested upon Cheron, "How did you manage all of this?" Curiosity peeked in his voice.

 

The oviraptor smiled warmly towards Erra before replying, "Lots of careful planning and hard work. But it's all worth it, wouldn't you agree?" As he spoke he gestured towards the festival as a whole. All those in attendance, all those with differences, everyone together.

 

"It takes a lot to bring so many together in a peaceful manner." Erra spoke nodding, agreeing with Cheron's comment, "You should be proud of what you've managed to accomplish." A warm smile grew upon Erra's face once more as he spoke.

 

Cheron smiled back and chuckled softly, "Though let's be fair, many like you are only here for the food." As he spoke he gestured towards the already devoured rabbit.

 

Embarassed Erra opened his mouth to explain himself but stopped as Cheron raised his hand, "I promise I'm not here to judge. Just to bring the community within the islands together. After all, who doesn't enjoy watching the stars streak across the sky for us."

 

With that, both Erra and Cheron gazed at the stars for a moment in silence. The warm lights of the building, the faint chatter of those in attendance, everything felt... good. 

 

"You should be proud of what you've accomplished." Erra started.

 

Cheron smiled and began his approach back towards the heart of the festival, "Being able to bring so many together for good is a reward of it's own." Without any further words the oviraptor quietly walked off, the crunch of the snow beneath him slowly fading with each step.

 

Erra's smile lingered as he watched the ring leader walk off back into the heart of the chaos. It was a good event, a successful gathering of dinosaurs. Hopefully next year Cheron would return with the meteor shower and all of this could come back with him.