The Crowns of the Gods.

A new chapter of loss

 Luna was finally under control two weeks before Bayo's birthday. Blair was very impressed with Luna and how she had changed, not just on the inside. Luna's transformation was remarkable. Her hair, once a plain brown, now shimmered with an ethereal black hue, the tips glowing a vibrant green. Her eyes, which had been a soft brown, were now a mesmerizing grey with a hint of teal, resembling the calm before a storm. Her lips, no longer a simple pink, had deepened to a dark red with a subtle green undertone, giving her an otherworldly beauty.

A radiant aura surrounded Luna, much like Blair's, but hers was a vivid green, a clear sign that Luna was the true goddess of earth. Despite this, Luna was reluctant to take on the full weight of her mother's responsibilities. She preferred to focus on her crown duties and her original roles as the Goddess of Necessity, Compulsion, and Inevitability.

Blair led everyone upstairs, the air thick with anticipation. The room was illuminated by the golden light of chandeliers, casting a warm glow on the polished marble floor and the richly decorated walls adorned with tapestries depicting ancient legends. The soft hum of whispered conversations filled the space, creating an atmosphere of both excitement and reverence.

Once they all settled, Blair called the meeting to order. The room fell silent as Bayo stood, her presence commanding immediate attention. The flickering light played off her features, highlighting the determination in her eyes. Everyone quieted down quickly, their focus shifting to Bayo as Blair gave a nod of approval.

"Persephone, Goddess of Spring, we call you forward," Bayo called out with a clear, commanding voice. The room, illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight, fell silent as anticipation hung in the air.

Peri stepped into the middle of the room, her presence serene and composed. The light caught the delicate floral pattern of her gown, which seemed to bloom and shift with each step she took. Her hair, a cascade of golden waves, shimmered as if kissed by the sun. Jinx moved toward her, her movements fluid and purposeful, her dark eyes reflecting the light.

"Peri, do you know why we called you forward?" Blair asked, her voice steady and filled with authority. The flickering flames cast shadows that danced across her stern features.

"Yes, you want to know what Bayo will be turning into," Peri replied, her eyes meeting Blair's with understanding.

Blair nodded, her expression serious. "Yes."

Peri took a deep breath, her gaze shifting to Bayo. "In order for me to tell you, I need to ask Bayo a question."

Blair gestured for her to proceed. "Go ahead."

Peri turned to Bayo, her eyes gentle but probing. "Where did you live when you were not on land?"

"Atlantis, you know that," Bayo answered, her voice tinged with curiosity. Her dark hair framed her face, which was filled with a mixture of intrigue and apprehension.

"Yes, I know. Can you tell everyone how you are able to live underwater?" Peri asked, her tone encouraging.

"I am not really sure. All I know is that I can breathe underwater," Bayo said, her brow furrowing slightly as she tried to recall more details. Her hands fidgeted with the hem of her robe, a nervous habit.

Peri smiled softly. "Yes, you can. Much like mermaids, you are very special."

Bayo's eyes widened with realization. "I am a mermaid?"

"A water nymph, actually," a voice said from the doorway, drawing everyone's attention.

"Welcome, Helio," Blair said with a smile, her eyes brightening at the sight of the newcomer.