Mystic Allure

Chapter Two

Whitelock Academy

     Stella, sensing the weight of the conversation, walks closer to Maggie and Fae, a warm smile spreading across her face. "We were just thinking, Stella..." Maggie pauses, looking to Fae for support. The fairy interjects, "We were thinking that maybe if you would like to stay here for a while, it would be fine since Blairania time moves slower than in Lerundus."

     Fae gives a sheepish smile, her eyes planted to the floor. Maggie gently grabs Stella's hands, holding them in hers. "You belong here, Stella. I know you do," Maggie pleads, feeling a rejuvenated aura emanating from Stella after spending time in the floral shop. "It feels welcoming here, everything about this is enchanting," Stella breathes, tilting her head up towards the ceiling as a warm glow envelopes her face.

     "Lerundus..." Stella starts. "Lerundus was home until I finally came home," Stella finishes, a small smile cracking from her lips as her gaze lands on Maggie and Fae. Their faces light up, turning towards one another before engulfing Stella into a bone-crushing hug. "What is there to do in Blairania?" Stella squeaks out. Maggie and Fae let go quickly, hearing Stella's labored breath.

     "Well, that depends on you really, little light," Maggie's voice as smooth and soft as silk, looking over Stella. "When your father and I were still young, we went to this school for mystic arts," Maggie reminisces about her golden days. Fae snickers as she continues explaining Whitelock Academy, Maggie seemingly in a world of her own.

     "The school is named Whitelock Academy; it's open to talented mystics that want a real career here in Blairania," Fae says, her eyes lighting up just thinking about it. "I work there as a teacher and would be happy to give you a recommendation, but that's all. I can't help you pass the entrance exam," Fae sighs, dejected.

     Stella's face contorts into confusion, unable to process the steps to attend the prestigious school. Taking a deep breath and feeling even calmer with the mystical blooms' combination of scents lingering in the air, she reassures Fae, "How hard can it be?" Suddenly, the doorbell chimes, and Stella spins on her heels to see Illiad, but an older version of him.

     "Ms. Flor, congratulations on your reopening," the elf says, his expression hard and unreadable. His eyes fall onto Maggie, Fae, and then Stella, showing a glint of curiosity. Fae rolls her eyes before muttering a few words of empty appreciation. "Who might this young lady be?" The tall, dark-haired elf speaks, his eyes studying Stella's features carefully.

     The man mutters to himself with a few audible words; Ociel being one of them. "Nice to meet you, sir. My name is Stella, I'm Maggie's niece," the brunette chirps, giving her best smile to this seemingly mysterious yet powerful man. "Pleasure," is all he replies with before turning towards Maggie. "Magistus Malis, may I have a word?" He growls as Maggie finally snaps out of her reminiscing. Maggie clears her throat before speaking. "Yes, High Elf?".

     Adrien, the high councilman elf, locks eyes with Maggie, his expression growing increasingly hostile. "Magistus Malis, your niece's arrival has not gone unnoticed," he states, his tone laced with a veiled threat. Maggie, equally defiant, crosses her arms. "Stella is under my care, and she's not here to cause trouble."

     Adrien's gaze sharpens, his suspicion evident. "Blairania is not a place for outsiders, especially those with untapped magical potential. It disrupts the delicate balance." Maggie, defensive, retorts, "Stella belongs here as much as anyone. We won't let your council dictate her fate."