Flicker and the Tempest of Turning Leaves
by
Thomas
A story about What causes a tornado?
for your 3rd Grader.
Flicker Sparkleaf, a mischievous yet wise elf, lived in a spellbinding meadow where flowers glistened under the golden sunlight. She loved to explore every vine and hidden path, always prepared for an exciting quest. The tall, looming mountains beyond the meadow filled her heart with wonder.
One bright morning, Flicker Sparkleaf heard a low rumble in the distance. At first, she thought it might be a gentle thunderstorm, but the sky darkened faster than usual. A sudden swirl of wind sent leaves flying, and the ground trembled beneath her feet.
A towering vine twisted itself into a spiral, clinging to a large stone. Thunder boomed overhead, shaking bright petals free from the flowers below.
Startled by this wild tempest, Flicker Sparkleaf decided to seek help. Rumor spoke of an old sage who knew all about the mysteries of fierce weather. Determined to learn, she set off across the meadow, following the sound of crashing winds.
While journeying, Flicker Sparkleaf spotted small, glowing creatures darting among the stems. They fluttered anxiously, as though they sensed danger in the air. “Do you know where the old sage lives?” she asked softly, but the creatures only flickered brighter and vanished.
Despite feeling a twinge of fear, Flicker Sparkleaf pressed onward. She remembered that, when storms turn wild, it helps to stay calm and find shelter if things become too dangerous. Still, her curiosity about the swirling clouds was just too strong to ignore.
Standing tall at the meadow’s far edge stood a stone arch covered in glowing runes. A mighty gust rattled the arch, causing dust and sparkles to fall from its carved symbols.
At last, Flicker Sparkleaf reached the arch and stepped through. On the other side, the old sage awaited her in a small clearing. He stroked his wispy beard and said in a gentle voice, “You have come to learn about the swirling storm, haven’t you?”