Divided

Celeste

AN: If you have read this chapter before you will notice that I edited it. Please enjoy:)

Caterina's POV

"There are four kingdoms on this side of the world," Imperia begins, her tone heavy with the authority of someone who knows the terrain intimately. "The vampire kingdom, the witch kingdom, the werewolf kingdom, and at the very top, the tribrid kingdom. The kingdom that connects them all." She pauses for a moment, allowing the weight of her words to settle as I slowly nod in understanding.

"We are currently in the vampire forest," she continues, her gaze shifting to the dense, shadowed woods surrounding us. "But now, we are heading towards the queen's kingdom." She directs her attention to Athan, who stands beside her, his presence commanding and calm.

I watch as Alistair, who has been silent until now, touches the ring on his finger. The blue gem embedded in it begins to glow softly, casting a faint, ethereal light. It's as if the gem responds to his commands. I take a moment to glance back at Imperia and Athan, who are deep in conversation.

"Princeta, non tou hab ro ire hoga?" (Princess, don't you have to go home?) Athan asks, his voice cutting through the sounds of the forest.

Imperia's eyes soften as she looks at him, her face breaking into a gentle, reassuring smile. "Nat, Y hab tou." (No, I have you) she declares with a warmth that seems to light up the surrounding darkness.

Athan's smile grows slightly, his expression a mix of affection and amusement. He shakes his head slowly, as if he finds the princess's unwavering confidence both endearing and a bit amusing.

"Ahem..." Alistair's voice cuts through the soft conversation, carrying an edge of irritation. He casts an annoyed glance towards the princess and Athan. "Alright, I'm going to open a portal from my ring. It'll lead directly to the queen, so make sure to jump in when it opens." He says with a tone of certainty, as if his patience is wearing thin.

I nod in agreement, my curiosity piqued by the mention of a portal. "A portal? Isn't that a way I can go home?" I ask, hopeful that this might be my chance to return.

Alistair's expression remains serious as he shakes his head. "No, I can't. I can only use it within this world." His voice is firm, leaving no room for further questions.

I feel a hit of disappointment, but I quickly brush it aside. "Oops," I mutter to myself, feeling a bit embarrassed.

"Ready?" Alistair asks, his tone softening as he prepares to perform the spell. I nod in response, trying to steady my nerves.

With a deliberate motion, Alistair's hands spread apart. His blue magic swirls into the air, shimmering with an otherworldly glow. The ring on his finger brightens, and a light blue circle begins to form in front of us. It's an intricate, glowing portal, pulsating with a soft, inviting light.

Alistair tilts his head, a clear gesture for us to step forward. Athan moves confidently, stepping into the portal first while ensuring that Princess Imperia follows closely behind him. I take a deep breath and follow, stepping into the swirling blue light.

As soon as we're through, I glance back to see Alistair touching his ring again. The portal closes with a faint shimmer, leaving no trace of the gateway we've just used.

I turn my attention to my surroundings, and my breath catches in my throat. Wow... The world before me is a vibrant, enchanting spectacle. Small shops line the streets, their facades adorned with curious trinkets and glowing signs. Creatures of various shapes and sizes dart about, their presence adding to the lively atmosphere.