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by Bill Tiepelman

Azure Eyes of the Celestial Dragon

In a galaxy not too far away, on a planet called Luminaris—a place that looked like an interstellar disco ball on acid—there hatched a peculiar baby dragon. His name? Glitterwing the Fourth. Not because there were three dragons before him (there weren’t), but because his mother, Queen Frostmaw the Shimmering, had a flair for drama and thought numbers made things sound royal. Glitterwing, however, had other opinions. He liked his nickname better: Steve. Steve's Grand Entrance Steve’s birth wasn’t exactly a serene, mystical moment. He cracked out of his egg with all the grace of a squirrel on caffeine, flailing his tiny limbs, his metallic scales catching the light like a disco ball having an existential crisis. His first words weren’t poetic, either. They were something along the lines of, “Ugh, this light is awful, and what is that smell?!” From the moment he hatched, Steve had one glaringly unique feature: his impossibly large, strikingly blue eyes. While most dragon hatchlings looked like a mix between a kitten and a medieval weapon, Steve looked like a giant plush toy with an attitude problem. He immediately became the center of attention in the dragon kingdom, which, as you can imagine, annoyed him to no end. “Can we all stop gawking like I’m the last pastry at the buffet? I’m just a dragon, not a fireworks display.” Destined for Greatness? Nah, Just Hungry. The elders of the dragon council, a group of ancient reptiles who spent most of their time arguing about whose hoard was shinier, declared that Steve was destined for greatness. “His scales glitter like the stars, and his eyes pierce the soul!” they proclaimed. Steve, however, had other plans. “Cool story, Grandpa, but does greatness come with snacks? Because I’m starving.” Steve quickly developed a reputation for his biting wit and his insatiable appetite. While most dragons his age were practicing fire breathing, Steve was perfecting the art of sarcastic commentary. “Oh, look, another fire-breathing competition. How original. Why don’t we try something new, like, I don’t know, competitive napping?” The Misadventures Begin Steve’s snarky attitude didn’t exactly make him popular with his peers. One particularly jealous dragonling, Blaze, challenged him to a duel. “Prepare to meet your doom, Glitterwing!” Blaze roared. Steve didn’t even flinch. “Okay, but can we schedule this after lunch? I have priorities.” When the duel finally happened, Steve won—not with strength, but by making Blaze laugh so hard he fell over and rolled into a pile of mud. “See? Humor is the real weapon,” Steve said, polishing his claws nonchalantly. Despite his reluctance, Steve’s fame grew. Adventurers from distant lands came to see the "Celestial Dragon" with the sapphire eyes. Steve found this both flattering and exhausting. “Great, another group of humans pointing sticks at me and calling them ‘weapons.’ Can someone at least bring me a sandwich this time?” The Day Steve Saved the Kingdom (Accidentally) Steve’s most famous misadventure occurred when a rival kingdom sent a group of knights to steal the dragons' treasures. While the other dragons were busy preparing for battle, Steve was busy eating his weight in moonberries. The knights stormed into the dragon cave, only to find Steve lounging on a pile of gold. “Oh, look, more tin cans. What do you guys want? Directions to the nearest McDragon’s?” The knights, thinking Steve’s enormous eyes and shimmering scales were some sort of godly warning, panicked. One knight screamed, “It’s the divine dragon of doom!” and fled. The others followed, tripping over each other in their haste. Steve blinked, confused. “Wait, that worked? Huh. Maybe I am destined for greatness. Or maybe they just didn’t want to deal with a dragon who looks like he hasn’t slept in weeks.” The Legend Lives On These days, Steve spends his time napping on his hoard (which mostly consists of shiny rocks and discarded armor) and coming up with increasingly sarcastic remarks for nosy adventurers. He’s still the talk of the kingdom, much to his annoyance. “I’m not a hero,” he insists. “I’m just a dragon who happens to look fabulous.” But deep down, Steve enjoys the attention—just a little. After all, who wouldn’t want to be a glittering icon with piercing azure eyes and a knack for making knights wet their pants? Bring Steve Home: Celestial Dragon-Inspired Products Can't get enough of Steve's snarky charm and shimmering brilliance? Now, you can bring a piece of his celestial magic into your own home with these exclusive products: Dragon Tapestry: Adorn your walls with Steve’s radiant glory, perfect for transforming any room into a mystical lair. Canvas Print: A high-quality art piece showcasing Steve’s celestial aura, ideal for dragon lovers and fantasy enthusiasts. Throw Pillow: Cozy up with Steve’s enchanting presence, a whimsical addition to your living space. Dragon Puzzle: Piece together Steve’s mesmerizing features with this fun and challenging puzzle, perfect for quiet evenings or dragon-loving gatherings. Embrace the magic of the celestial dragon and let Steve’s legacy light up your life—one sparkling scale at a time.

by Bill Tiepelman

The Snail Fairy's New Year Adventure

Deep in the enchanted garden, as the last stars of the year twinkled in the velvet sky, the Snail Fairy emerged from her golden rose. Her name was Spirabella, though most simply called her Bella, and she was the queen of sass, charm, and late-night shenanigans. As the guardian of all things whimsical, Bella had one mission every New Year’s Eve: to ensure the celebration was legendary. “Alright, darlings,” she chirped, fluffing her furry antennae in the reflection of a dew drop. “It’s time to party, and by party, I mean absolute chaos wrapped in glitter.” Her tiny, spiral shell gleamed under the moonlight, a cosmic swirl that sparkled like a disco ball. With a dramatic wave of her tiny paw, Bella summoned her entourage: the Firefly DJ, the Spiderweb Cocktail Master, and of course, the Mushroom Dancers, who always arrived fashionably late. The enchanted creatures of the garden gathered beneath the sprawling canopy of an ancient oak tree, which had been draped in glowing ivy for the occasion. Everyone knew Bella threw the best parties—after all, she’d invented the magical champagne bubble that never popped (and always refilled itself). Legends whispered that even the Wind Spirits got hangovers from her events. When the Trouble Started Just as the countdown began, a rival appeared. It was the New Year itself, a sleek, shimmering figure wrapped in silver vines, radiating pomp and unnecessary drama. They sashayed into the party, their spiral shell glistening with what Bella could only assume was store-bought glitter. “Bella,” the New Year said, their voice dripping with faux charm, “your parties are delightful, but it’s time for something... fresher. Bolder. A little less ‘furry snail’ and a little more ‘cosmic glam.’” Bella narrowed her eyes, her paw tightening around her martini glass. “Fresher?” she hissed. “Darling, I’ve been running this show since before you were a twinkle in the Timekeeper’s eye. You’re welcome to join, but don’t think for a second you’re taking over my spotlight.” The New Year smirked, clearly unbothered. “Oh, Bella. The past is so... last year.” The crowd gasped. Bella’s fuzzy fur bristled with indignation. She set down her drink, her spiral shell glowing brighter with every passing second. “Alright, glitter boy,” she said, her voice as sharp as a thorn. “How about a little competition? Let’s see who can bring the most magic to this garden.” The Legendary Face-Off The challenge was simple: Bella and the New Year would each create the most dazzling New Year’s spectacle. Fireworks? Check. Glitter storms? Obviously. A flying toadstool parade? Oh, it was on. Bella’s side erupted in cheers as she conjured a swirling galaxy above the garden, her antennae crackling with magic. Stars spun in intricate patterns, spelling out messages like, “You can’t out-snail the queen.” Meanwhile, the New Year countered with a cosmic rain of shooting stars, each one bursting into a thousand tiny flowers as it hit the ground. The garden creatures went wild, dancing, laughing, and sipping Bella’s infamous champagne bubbles. As the clock struck midnight, the crowd’s roar reached a fever pitch. Both Bella and the New Year stood at the center of the chaos, their glowing shells radiating pure magic. Finally, they burst into laughter. “Alright, alright,” the New Year admitted, raising a glass. “You’re good, Bella. Legendary, even.” Bella smirked, her fuzzy paw extended for a toast. “You’re not bad yourself, darling. But don’t get used to it. This is my garden.” The Aftermath By dawn, the enchanted garden was littered with stardust, empty champagne bubbles, and a few passed-out Mushroom Dancers. Bella watched the sunrise from her golden rose, her tiny frame glowing with satisfaction. “Another year, another legendary party,” she sighed, sipping her last martini. “Same time next year, darlings.” As the New Year disappeared into the horizon, they turned and waved, a knowing smirk on their face. “Until next time, Bella.” The Snail Fairy smiled, her antennae twitching with mischief. “Oh, there will be a next time. And I’ll still be fabulous.” And so, the legend of Bella and her sass-filled New Year’s adventures lived on, proving once again that even in the magical world, there’s always room for a little chaos, a lot of glitter, and one fabulous snail fairy. Bring Bella Home: Radiant Rose Dweller Collection Love the charm and sass of Bella, the Snail Fairy? Now you can bring a touch of her whimsical world into your own home with the Radiant Rose Dweller Collection. Featuring vibrant colors, enchanting details, and a splash of magic, these items are perfect for anyone who loves a little fantasy flair in their life. Explore our exclusive range: Radiant Rose Dweller Tapestry – Add a dramatic, magical vibe to your walls. Canvas Print – Perfect for art lovers looking to make a statement. Throw Pillow – A cozy touch of fantasy for your living space. Duvet Cover – Transform your bedroom into an enchanted garden. Shower Curtain – Start your mornings with a dash of magic. Celebrate the New Year and beyond with Bella by your side! Explore the full collection and bring the joy of the enchanted garden into your life.

by Bill Tiepelman

The Heavenly Tiger's Call

In a realm where the boundaries of earth and sky blurred into a perpetual twilight, the Heavenly Tiger reigned as a solitary sentinel. It was a creature of unparalleled majesty, its striped coat a testament to its earthly origins, while its vast, angelic wings marked its celestial transcendence. Few had seen it, and fewer still lived to tell of the encounter. Yet, for centuries, its legend endured, whispered across realms in tones of awe and reverence. The tiger's wings were no mere decoration. Each feather seemed alive, shimmering with a subtle iridescence that reflected the hues of the heavens: golds of sunrise, silvers of moonlight, and the deep purples of the coming storm. It was said that its wings had not been given but earned—each feather representing a trial, a sacrifice, a moment where the tiger had chosen duty over desire, others over itself. There were days when the tiger longed for simpler times, for the innocence of its youth when it prowled the dense forests of a forgotten world. Back then, its world was defined by instinct and survival. But that life had been torn from it the day it answered the gods’ call. It remembered the celestial voice, neither male nor female, that had echoed in its soul: "You are chosen. For courage. For honor. For the love of all things untamed." In accepting, the tiger had been transformed. Its body grew stronger, its senses sharper, and those wings—those impossibly beautiful wings—had unfurled for the first time. Yet, with every gift came a price. It was no longer merely a creature of the wild; it had become a bridge between two worlds, bound to neither and responsible for both. It was a heavy burden, one that no mortal could carry without cracks forming beneath the weight. An Eternal Vigil For centuries, the tiger roamed the liminal spaces: the edges of forests, the ridges of mountains, the distant horizons where the sky met the sea. Wherever imbalance threatened to tip the delicate scales of existence, the tiger appeared. Its roar was a balm to the broken-hearted, a rallying cry to the downtrodden, and a warning to those who sought to exploit the fragile harmony of the realms. But as time wore on, doubts began to seep into the tiger's once-steadfast heart. It wondered if its efforts were futile. No matter how many times it restored balance, chaos always returned, wearing a new face. Each battle left scars—some visible on its striped body, others etched deep within its soul. It had no companions, no kindred spirits to share its burden. The heavens were silent, and the earth, though beautiful, was indifferent. One evening, as it perched on a cliff overlooking a valley bathed in the silver glow of moonlight, the tiger let out a roar. It was not the commanding roar it had used to warn or protect. This was different—a raw, unfiltered cry of anguish that echoed across the heavens. The sound startled the stars, making them flicker as if unsure of their place in the cosmos. The Call of Reflection In the silence that followed, the tiger folded its wings and closed its eyes. For the first time in centuries, it allowed itself to feel the full weight of its loneliness. It remembered the faces of the creatures it had saved, the lives it had touched. Did they remember it? Did they ever think of the guardian that had silently ensured their survival? It thought of the gods who had chosen it. Were they watching still, or had they moved on to other creations, other champions? Was it a pawn in a game it couldn’t understand, or did its actions truly matter? These questions gnawed at its soul, but no answers came. Only the rustling of the wind through its feathers reminded it that the world moved on, with or without its intervention. Yet, even in its despair, the tiger could not ignore the faint tremor beneath its feet. Somewhere in the valley below, a fire flickered unnaturally, its light distorted and hungry. Shadows coiled around it, consuming the trees and spreading like a sickness. The tiger stood, its wings unfurling instinctively. The doubts, the loneliness, the questions—they didn’t matter now. Something was wrong, and it was needed. A Guardian’s Choice As it leapt from the cliff, its wings catching the cool night air, the tiger felt a familiar pang in its heart. This was its purpose. Not the answers, not the recognition, but the act itself. In that moment, it understood: the meaning of its existence wasn’t something to be given or found. It was something to be created, moment by moment, choice by choice. The fire roared louder as the tiger approached, its golden eyes reflecting the chaos below. It did not hesitate. With a final, earth-shaking roar, it descended into the heart of the darkness, a beacon of strength and light against the encroaching void. The battle would be fierce, and the scars would be many. But for now, in this moment, it was enough to know that it was fighting for something greater than itself. And so, the legend of the Heavenly Tiger continued, etched not in the annals of gods or mortals, but in the silent, unspoken gratitude of a world that, whether it knew it or not, owed everything to a creature that would never stop fighting for its balance. Bring the Legend Home Celebrate the awe-inspiring majesty of the Heavenly Tiger with exclusive artwork and products designed to transform your space into a realm of myth and beauty. Explore these premium offerings inspired by the celestial guardian: Heavenly Tiger Tapestry – Perfect for adding an ethereal touch to your walls. Canvas Print – A stunning centerpiece to inspire any room. Throw Pillow – Bring comfort and elegance to your living space. Duvet Cover – Drift into dreams of celestial balance with this exquisite bedding. Each piece is crafted with care to honor the story and spirit of the Heavenly Tiger. Click the links above to make a part of this legend yours today.

by Bill Tiepelman

A Dragon's First Breath

There are few things more awe-inspiring than the birth of a legend. But legends, much like dragons, rarely come into the world quietly. The egg sat atop a pedestal of stone, its surface a masterpiece of ornate carvings that seemed less the work of time and more of an artisan with a penchant for beauty and whimsy. Vines of delicate flowers and swirls wrapped around the shell, as though nature itself had decided to protect the treasure within. The room was silent, save for the faint hum of magic that pulsed in the air—an ancient rhythm, slow and steady, as though the world itself was holding its breath. Then it happened. A crack. It started as a whisper of sound, the faintest of clicks, as a single hairline fracture split the surface of the egg. From the fracture, a soft, golden light began to seep out, illuminating the chamber in a warm, ethereal glow. The crack widened, and then, with a sudden burst of force, a claw—tiny, yet unmistakably sharp—pierced through the shell. “Well, it’s about time,” muttered a voice from the shadows. The speaker, an ancient wizard with a beard that had seen too many years and a robe that had seen too few washes, stepped closer to the egg. “Three centuries of waiting, and you decide to make your entrance while I’m mid-breakfast. Typical dragon timing.” The dragon paid no attention to the wizard’s grumbles. Its focus was singular and instinctual—freedom. Another claw broke through the shell, followed by a delicate snout covered in shimmering pink and white scales. With a final push, the dragonling emerged, wings unfurling in a spray of golden dust. It blinked once, twice, its eyes wide and filled with the kind of wonder only the truly newborn can possess. “Ah, there you are,” the wizard said, his tone softening despite himself. “A little smaller than I expected, but I suppose even dragons have to start somewhere.” He squinted at the dragon, who was now inspecting its surroundings with a mixture of curiosity and mild disdain, as though unimpressed by the wizard’s décor. “Don’t look at me like that. You’re lucky you hatched here and not in some bandit’s den. This place has history!” The dragon sneezed, and a small puff of smoke escaped its nostrils. The wizard took a hasty step back. “Right, no need to start with the fire. We’ll get to that later,” he muttered, waving the smoke away. “Let’s see, you’ll need a name. Something grand, something that strikes fear into the hearts of your enemies—or at least makes the villagers less likely to throw rocks at you. How about… Flameheart?” The dragon tilted its head, unimpressed. “Alright, fine. Too cliché. What about… Blossom?” The dragon snorted, and a tiny ember landed dangerously close to the wizard’s robe. “Alright, alright! No need to be dramatic. How about Auriel? A bit of elegance, a touch of mystery. Yes, you look like an Auriel.” Auriel, as though considering the name, stretched its wings wide. They glimmered in the golden light, a tapestry of soft hues that seemed to shift and shimmer with every movement. For a moment, even the wizard was struck silent. The dragon, barely the size of a housecat, somehow commanded the room with the presence of something far greater. It was as though the universe itself had paused to acknowledge this small but significant life. “You’ll do great things,” the wizard said softly, his voice filled with a rare sincerity. “But not today. Today, you eat, you sleep, and you figure out how to fly without breaking everything in sight.” As if in agreement, Auriel let out a tiny roar—a sound that was equal parts adorable and pitifully small. The wizard chuckled, a deep, hearty laugh that echoed through the chamber. For the first time in centuries, he felt hope. Not the fleeting kind that comes and goes with a passing thought, but the deep, unshakable kind that settles in the bones and refuses to leave. “Come on then,” the wizard said, turning toward the doorway. “Let’s get you some food. And for the love of magic, try not to set anything on fire.” The dragon trotted after him, its steps light but full of purpose. Behind them, the shattered egg lay forgotten, its ornate shell a silent testament to the beginning of something extraordinary. As they left the chamber, a golden light lingered in the air, as though the magic itself knew that this was no ordinary day. Legends, after all, are not born; they are made. But every legend begins somewhere. And for Auriel, it began here, with a crack, a breath, and the promise of a world yet to be conquered. Bring "A Dragon's First Breath" Into Your Home Capture the magic and wonder of Auriel's journey with stunning products that showcase this enchanting artwork. Whether you're looking to decorate your home or carry a piece of fantasy with you, we've got you covered: Tapestry - Transform your walls with the majestic glow of this magical dragon. Canvas Print - Bring the legend to life with a premium-quality canvas that exudes elegance. Throw Pillow - Add a touch of mythical charm to your living space with this cozy, decorative piece. Tote Bag - Carry the magic with you wherever you go with this stylish and durable tote bag. Each item is crafted with care and designed to bring the story of "A Dragon's First Breath" to life in your everyday world. Explore these products and more at Unfocussed Shop.

by Bill Tiepelman

The Geometric Serpent

In a realm where geometry met magic, there existed a creature of unparalleled beauty and wit: a serpent named Kalidos, whose scales shimmered in intricate fractal patterns that shifted and glowed like the surface of a kaleidoscope. Kalidos was not your average serpent—he was the self-proclaimed "Guardian of Symmetry" and an occasional mischief-maker who thrived on riddles, pranks, and perplexing visitors to his domain. His lair, if it could be called that, was a labyrinth of glowing geometric shapes—impossible spirals, recursive triangles, and pulsating mandalas that defied the laws of physics. Travelers stumbled into Kalidos’s realm often, drawn by the legend of his jewel-like scales and the promise that he could solve any problem, no matter how complex. What the legends failed to mention, however, was his peculiar sense of humor. The Intruder One fateful evening, as the fractal forest hummed with its usual symphony of shifting patterns, Kalidos lounged lazily atop a glowing mandala, his tail coiled neatly in the center like an artist signing his work. He was just about to doze off when a voice pierced the stillness. “Uh… excuse me?” Kalidos uncoiled, raising his triangular head to peer at the newcomer—a man wearing a backpack and the unmistakable expression of someone deeply regretting their life choices. “You’re trespassing,” Kalidos said, his voice a velvety drawl. “But you’re in luck. Today’s a good day. I’m feeling generous and possibly bored.” The man blinked. “I’m, uh, looking for the legendary Geometric Serpent. They say you can grant wisdom and solve impossible problems.” Kalidos preened, his scales flickering in a self-satisfied glow. “You’ve found him. But wisdom isn’t free, my friend. It must be earned. Let’s start with something simple: Why does a circle never trust a triangle?” The man scratched his head. “Because… triangles are… pointy?” Kalidos burst out laughing, his laughter echoing through the labyrinth like a chorus of chimes. “Close enough! You’ll do. Now, what brings you here? A lost treasure? A broken heart? Or are you just terrible at reading maps?” The Bargain “I need your help,” the man said, ignoring the jab. “There’s a curse on my family. Every full moon, we turn into very awkward… ducks.” Kalidos blinked. “Ducks? That’s new. I usually get princes turning into frogs, or entire kingdoms frozen in time. Ducks is… creative.” “Can you lift the curse or not?” the man asked, growing impatient. Kalidos tilted his head, his eyes gleaming like twin galaxies. “Oh, I could lift it. But where’s the fun in that? Let’s make a game of it. If you can solve my labyrinth and reach the center, I’ll lift the curse. If you fail, you’ll have to leave behind your most prized possession.” The man hesitated. “That’s… vague. What counts as my most prized possession?” Kalidos grinned, revealing teeth that shimmered like opals. “That’s for me to decide. Now, off you go!” The Labyrinth of Laughter The labyrinth was a kaleidoscopic nightmare. Walls shifted and rotated, floors became ceilings, and every corner seemed to lead back to where the man had started. Adding to the chaos were Kalidos’s pranks—occasionally, a glowing fractal would explode into confetti, or a corridor would suddenly echo with the serpent’s disembodied voice delivering terrible puns. “Why don’t polygons ever get invited to parties?” Kalidos’s voice boomed. “Because they’re too edgy!” The man groaned but pressed on, navigating the shifting maze by trial and error. Just when he thought he was making progress, he tripped over what appeared to be… a floating Möbius strip? “Careful!” Kalidos called from somewhere above. “That’s a one-sided argument waiting to happen!” Hours passed, or perhaps days—time had no meaning in the labyrinth. At last, the man stumbled into the center, where Kalidos awaited, coiled atop a grand mandala that shimmered like a starry sky. The Resolution “Well, well,” Kalidos purred. “You actually made it. I’m impressed. Now, about that curse…” “You’ll lift it?” the man asked, breathless. “Of course,” Kalidos said, his voice dripping with faux sincerity. “But first, your most prized possession. Hand it over.” The man hesitated, then reached into his backpack and produced… a sandwich. A slightly squished peanut butter and jelly sandwich, to be precise. Kalidos stared. “This is your most prized possession?” The man shrugged. “I skipped breakfast.” For a moment, Kalidos looked as though he might protest. Then, with a dramatic sigh, he uncoiled and tapped the sandwich with his tail. “Fine. Curse lifted. Now go, before I change my mind.” The Aftermath As the man left the labyrinth, Kalidos watched him go, shaking his head in disbelief. “Humans,” he muttered, biting into the sandwich. “Always so dramatic.” And so, the Geometric Serpent returned to his mandala, ready to weave more pranks and puzzles into his ever-shifting domain. After all, what was the point of guarding symmetry if you couldn’t have a little fun along the way? Bring The Geometric Serpent Into Your Space Celebrate the whimsical charm and mesmerizing beauty of Kalidos, the Geometric Serpent, with these exclusive products. Whether you're looking to add an enchanting touch to your home or carry a piece of his magical world with you, there's something for everyone: Cross-Stitch Pattern – Bring Kalidos to life with this intricate and creative cross-stitch design, perfect for both beginners and seasoned stitchers. Poster – A vibrant and captivating print that adds a splash of magic and geometry to any wall. Tapestry – Elevate your space with this stunning fabric piece, showcasing the dazzling patterns of Kalidos’s world. Throw Pillow – Add a touch of comfort and enchantment with this beautifully designed pillow. Tote Bag – Carry a piece of Kalidos’s magic wherever you go with this stylish and functional accessory. Metal Print – A sleek and durable option that transforms Kalidos into a modern masterpiece for your home or office.