Inside the cave, Ember the Dragon wakes up curled in a pile of mossy blankets. His tiny wings stretch as he yawns, and his scales shimmer like little jewels when the light touches them. Today feels bright and hopeful, but Ember wonders what adventures might come. He rubs his sleepy eyes and listens to birds chirping just beyond the entrance.
Ember trots out into the meadow, his tail swishing behind him. He loves to chase butterflies, feeling the tickle of grass on his tiny claws. But when a butterfly slips away just as he’s about to catch it, a wave of frustration bubbles up inside. His cheeks feel hot, and before he can stop it, a little puff of fire escapes—startling the butterflies away.
Ember feels sad and worried. “Why do I always let my fire out when I’m upset?” he wonders. His heart beats fast, like raindrops tapping on a leaf. He hugs his knees and wishes he knew how to make the big feelings shrink, just a little.
Willow the Rabbit sits beside Ember, offering a gentle smile.
"Sometimes big feelings make us do things we don’t mean," Willow says softly. "Would you like to learn how I calm down when I feel upset?"
"Yes, please," whispers Ember, his voice as small as a pebble.
Willow closes her eyes and takes a slow, deep breath, her nose twitching. "I like to imagine I’m blowing out a candle, very softly," she explains. Ember watches and tries, breathing in slowly until his chest feels full of warm air, then blowing out gently, like the softest wind. The heat inside him begins to fade, and he feels lighter.
Ember practices his breathing when he feels a big feeling start to grow. Each time, the fire stays tucked away, and he feels proud and peaceful. Willow gives his paw a gentle squeeze.
"Sometimes feelings are very big, but you are even braver and stronger," she says.
"Thank you, Willow. I know my feelings are okay, and I can choose calm," Ember smiles, his heart soft and warm.
Ember closes his eyes, remembering Willow’s gentle breaths. He knows that when his feelings get big, he can pause, breathe, and choose kindness. As Ember drifts to sleep, he feels proud to be himself—little dragon, big heart, and always learning. Tomorrow, he will wake with the sun and remember: it’s okay to feel, and it’s always okay to choose calm.
