They say that if you stand by the lakes of the Chistlyn at sunrise. Before the mist has fully lifted, before the birds dare to break the quiet you hear it.
A single, heavy exhale.
Like the world itself taking a breath.
From the tree line emerges the Black Leaper. A spirit-steed older than the villages around Cannock Chase, older than the Forest Kings, older even than the Stormborne line.
Its coat is the colour of midnight after rain, slick and shifting like a storm cloud gathering its strength.
When it moves, the air warms with the scent of wet grass and pine sap. The ground trembles just enough to remind you that it is real.
Some say the Leaper was once a war horse belonging to a forgotten chieftain.
A beast so fiercely loyal that it refused to pass on when its master fell. Others whisper that it is no creature of this world at all. But a guardian born from the lake’s deepest waters, shaped from moonlight, fog, and old magic.
Whatever the truth, one thing is certain:
the Black Leaper does not walk. It flies.
Witnesses speak of the thunder of hooves striking the earth for only a heartbeat. Before the creature rises, soaring over lakes and treetops in a single, impossible leap.
Many who see it feel a sudden pull in their chest . As if the horse carries every unspoken longing for freedom with it.
This artwork captures the creature in that moment between worlds.
When the sun glows warm on its back, the wind twists its mane into wild ribbons. The forest watches in held breath as the guardian crosses the sky.
Some believe the Leaper appears only to those who feel trapped or lost.
Others say it is a sign of protection, a reminder that the path ahead is wider than it seems.
Authors Note : Chistlyn is the Anglo Saxon name for what is now known as Cheslyn Hay.
For the artists or those interested. The drawing was drawn using Ohuhu Markers on A4 plain paper.
I wonder if the Black Leaper passed you by, what would it be urging you to run toward. Or away from?
Thank you for reading, if you have enjoyed this story or like the illustrations. Please support me by liking and follow.
Further stories can be found at
Unlocking Ancient Powers: Lore Stormborne’s Awakening
Join the Adventure in Tales of Rayne’s Universe
The Prophecies and Tales of Taranis Unfolded
You can find more art on
StormborneLore 