Two Jealous Faeries

At night, the four of them gathered at the tea pavilion once again, ensuring that there were no vampire lectures scheduled for the night to avoid being found by Professor Nightshade or by any other vampire professors.

Under Flare's guidance, Crystal took a deep breath, channeling her powers into her fingertips. With authority in her voice, she commanded as she flickered her fingers, "I, Crystal, the Aether Faerie, summon the elements to forge a portal before me."

As Crystal finished her command, the air around them stirred, causing everything to sway. They had to hold onto the pavilion pillars to maintain their balance. Gradually, the chaos subsided, giving way to the formation of a magnificent portal at the entrance of the tea pavilion.

The border of the portal emerged, crafted from intricate patterns that resembled delicate veins of crystal. They spread out like branches of a mystical tree, creating an enchanting framework that encased the void of the portal. The veins glowed with a soft, ethereal light, casting a gentle radiance that enhanced the beauty of the portal.

Embedded within the crystal veins, tiny gemstones sparkled like scattered treasures. Their shimmering presence adorned the border, adding a touch of elegance and splendor. The gems, each with its own vibrant hue, created a mosaic of colors that danced along the edges of the portal.

As the portal expanded, the void within came to life. Rainbow swirls formed a mesmerizing kaleidoscope, swirling and shifting in an intricate dance of vibrant shades.

Crystal's smile widened with pride as she gazed at the glorious portal before them. "Wow, now that's what I call a truly magical portal that is worth leaving my life on Earth," she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight. The others exchanged unbelieving glances, struggling to comprehend Crystal's enthusiasm.

Yet, they couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as well, knowing that this portal surpassed their expectations and truly belonged in the realm of enchantment.

Marina, her voice tinged with nervousness, chimed in, "We should not waste any more time. I have a strong feeling that this adventure will require a substantial investment of our time." Her words resonated with the group, their apprehension growing. They were well aware of the destination they sought last time and what they were dealing with. However, the unknown entity lurking in the depths, in the riddle added an air of mystery and uncertainty to their already challenging quest.

One by one, they mustered the courage to step into the mystical portal. Crystal, being the first to emerge on the other side, was greeted by a refreshing cool breeze that carried the unmistakable scent of the seaside and wet sand.

However, her initial elation quickly withered as she turned her gaze back to the portal behind her. It stood there, unaltered and unimpressive, an almost decrepit hut that failed to match the majesty of the one she had created.

Crystal couldn't help but let out a frustrated sigh and muttered to herself, questioning the point of her efforts. Flare had informed her beforehand that she could create the portal however she wanted but the portal on the other side of the universe would remain unchanged.

Marina, being an ocean faerie, felt a remarkable surge of power coursing through her being. The proximity to the vast ocean awakened a deep connection within her, amplifying her abilities in ways she had never experienced before. The waves seemed to dance in harmony with her every step, as if whispering ancient secrets of the sea.

Ambrose, remained somewhat indifferent to the ocean's allure as the fire faerie. He pragmatically suggested, "Let us continue moving forward towards the shore." His focus was on the objective at hand, undeterred by the surrounding beauty. The others nodded in agreement, acknowledging the importance of progressing forward in their quest.

Their journey came to an abrupt halt as a group of individuals emerged, marching purposefully towards them, their spears raised in a defensive stance. The four of them found themselves surrounded, the tips of the spears aimed directly at them. Anxiety filled the air, and tension gripped their hearts.

Yet, amidst the unease, Crystal's gaze was drawn to the precise details that defined the majestic figures before her. The individuals possessed pearlescent skin ranging from pale opalescent shades to vibrant coral tones, shimmering in mist. Flowing locks of hair, reminiscent of the ocean's depths, exhibited a remarkable array of colors—deep sapphire blues, seafoam greens, and silver-white strands that glinted like moonlight on the water.

Eyes, captivating and bewitching, mirrored the various shades of the sea; from tranquil blues to stormy grays. Their gaze held a depth that seemed to encompass the mysteries and wonders of the ocean itself.

Their physique, slender and graceful, seemed perfectly attuned to their watery realm, they were a foot taller than even Ambrose. Subtle webbing adorned their elegant fingers and toes. Delicate seashells, glistening pearls, and intricately woven strands of seaweed were meticulously incorporated made their attires.

The Marevates embodied the enchanting beauty of the ocean.

While Crystal remained mesmerized by the majestic presence of the Marevates, the group drew closer, their spears still pointed in their direction. Ambrose, stepping forward, spoke in an authoritative voice, "We mean no harm to you."

The Marevates, however, seemed unaffected by his words, their expressions filled with confusion. Crystal sensed their perplexity radiating from their aura, realizing that they were unable to comprehend spoken language. She took a step forward, intending to communicate with them through her communication abilities.

But as she moved, Ambrose and Aurelius instinctively grabbed her hands, their worried glances reflecting their concerns. Crystal met their gaze, a reassuring smile on her face, and shook her head. "Don't worry, trust me," she said, assuring them that she could handle the situation.

Reluctantly, Ambrose and Aurelius released their grip on Crystal's hands, not wanting to disrespect her wish words.

Crystal, undeterred by the Marevates' alertness, continued to walk forward until one of them, with deep sapphire hair and stormy gray eyes, pointed a spear near her throat. Crystal halted, sensing the tension in the air. Ambrose and Aurelius stood ready to intervene if necessary, their protective instincts kicking in.

Despite her nervousness, Crystal maintained a composed demeanor, offering a warm smile and extending her hand. The Marevate with sapphire hair hesitated, uncertainty flickering in his eyes. However, captivated by Crystal's pure gaze, he reluctantly placed his hand in hers, feeling a sense of calm wash over him upon their contact.

Communicating through their minds, Crystal introduced herself, "My name is Crystal. I am an Aether faerie, and I have come seeking something in the depths of the Blaze Kingdom."

The Marevate's initial wariness gradually subsided as he understood Crystal's intentions as one could never speak a lie with their mind.

A glimmer of curiosity emerged in his eyes. The Marevate's voice resonated in Crystal's mind, his words carrying a sense of respect and hospitality. "Welcome to the Kingdom of Blaze, esteemed Aether faerie. We shall be honored to assist you on your journey." Crystal's smile widened with gratitude, her eyes gleaming as she turned to her companions and Flare, assuring them that everything was under control. They couldn't help but marvel at her remarkable communication abilities.

The Marevate then relayed the message to his fellow kin, their voices sounding like the popping of bubbles as they conversed. Crystal sensed a shift in the atmosphere as their spears were immediately lowered, a sign that they understood and accepted her purpose. The tension dissipated, replaced by an air of cooperation and curiosity.

As their hands remained connected, Crystal and the Marevate continued their silent conversation. He suggested that they proceed to the center of their village, where their tribe's leader awaited them. Crystal nodded in understanding and gratitude, acknowledging his offer of assistance.

Turning to her companions, Crystal shared the news, her voice filled with anticipation. "We're heading to the center of the village. Their leader will be there, and I believe he can provide us with the help we need." The others exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of curiosity and hope, as they followed Crystal and the Marevate deeper into the heart of the island.

As they continued their journey through the Marevate village, Ambrose and Aurelius couldn't help but steal glances at the intertwined hands of Crystal and the Marevate with sapphire hair as the two shared some silent small conversations between them. A hint of jealousy tinged their expressions looking at Crystal smiling so fondly at the handsome and tall Marevate that they had to fight back the urge to step forward and separate their hands already.

Marina struggled to suppress her amusement, her lips twitching with the urge to let out a chuckle as despite their attempts to appear unaffected and maintain a friendly facade, their true feelings revealed themselves through their envious gazes.