“I’d like a story,” the Unicorn says. He’s been blowing on his hot chocolate to cool it. He stretches his snowy neck, leaning his nose down to taste the dark liquid. “You always want a story,” the Dragon snarls. The Unicorn shies away from him, but he’s not really scared. The Unicorn and Dragon are the best of friends. My best friends. In this collection of 44 enchanting and thought-provoking tales, Mary E. Lowd masterfully blends whimsy and wonder with darkness and depth. From unicorns sharing hot chocolate with dragons to the strange machinations of shadowy creatures, these stories traverse the spectrum of light and shadow, inviting readers into worlds both familiar and fantastical. Whether you're charmed by playful unicorns or haunted by mysterious forces, these flights of fancy examine the complexity of life’s bittersweet moments and the surprises that linger in the shadows. With each story, Lowd explores the magical and the mundane, reflecting on the delicate balance between joy and sorrow, hope and despair. Join the journey across realms where the whimsical meets the profound, and where every story is a reminder that even the lightest of moments can hold great meaning. Perfect for readers who love to explore the edges of magic, emotion, and imagination. This collection contains 44 stories, Three Ursa Major Award Nominees!Two Writers of the Future Honorable Mentions!The Penn Cove Literary Arts Award-Winning story "Cyclops on Safari"