Guardian of Vulnerable Flames

Chapter 29

The next morning, Furie, Leaf, Ash, and Blaze prepared to attend the meeting with the Queen and her advisors to discuss the developments in the Obscure world. They gathered near a private portal that would swiftly transport them directly into the heart of the Queen's castle. Furie remembered the strenuous hike up the steep mountain and she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief and anticipation at the prospect of using a private portal. The convenience and speed it offered were a welcome change, and she looked forward to a more efficient journey.

Leaf and Furie exchanged greetings with Ash and Blaze as they assembled next to the portal. Leaf inquired, "Are you ready for this?" His gaze shifted to Blaze and Ash, who wore contrasting expressions. "So ready," Ash replied with his ever-flirtatious smile. "I can't wait to see what an official meeting with the Queen is like." Blaze, rolling her eyes at Ash's enthusiasm, added a touch of realism, "Don't expect much. I am sure it's going to be pretty boring. I expect the advisors to ignore us since we are not old important Guardians." Furie and Blaze locked eyes as the latter expressed her skepticism about the advisors listening to their insights. In that moment, Furie's determination shone through. She gazed at her sister with unwavering resolve and asserted, "If they don't want to hear what we know, the Guardian world is going to be in danger. I'll make them listen." Blaze, looking into Furie's eyes and sensing the strength of her determination, believed her sister's words. The intensity on Furie's face conveyed a conviction that Blaze could not ignore. After a brief moment of silent understanding, Blaze finally nodded and said, "Alright, let's get done with this." With that, Blaze stepped through the portal, and Ash, Furie, and Leaf followed suit. The group of four Guardians emerged on the other side into a beautiful circular room within the Queen's castle.

The circular room exuded an air of grandeur and sophistication. Bathed in bright natural light, the space was expansive and inviting. At its center stood a remarkable circular table, a majestic centerpiece that commanded attention. The table was not only sizable but also beautifully crafted, adorned with intricate designs and fine detailing. Its surface gleamed with a polished finish, reflecting the sunlight that poured in through the surrounding glass windows. Encircling the impressive table were a dozen elegant chairs, arranged with precision. Each chair boasted a regal design, contributing to the overall atmosphere of importance and formality. The arrangement suggested a space ready for discussions, decisions, and the exchange of significant information.

The room's crowning feature was its ceiling, which stretched above in a stunning display of glass or windows. This architectural choice allowed natural daylight to flood the room, creating a bright and uplifting ambiance. The radiant light accentuated the room's grandeur, emphasizing the sense of openness and transparency.

Entangled vines, adorned with lush greenery, climbed gracefully along the walls, weaving an intricate tapestry of nature within the refined interior. The vines seemed to reach for the high glass ceiling, as if aspiring to touch the boundless sky beyond. Their presence added a touch of organic beauty to the room's otherwise formal setting, creating a harmonious blend of the natural and the majestic. As the Guardians entered this resplendent circular room, the ambiance spoke of both authority and a connection to the surrounding natural world. It was a space where important discussions and decisions unfolded, bathed in the gentle glow of daylight and surrounded by the delicate embrace of climbing vines.

The once-empty circular room suddenly came alive with the entrance of the advisors. Each advisor represented one of the four elemental domains and served as a vital link between the Queen, the Guardian world, and the human world.

The Fire Advisor, a woman with long, straight black hair, entered with a purposeful stride. Her eyes, sharp and focused, quickly scanned the room. With a shy look towards the group of four Guardians standing on the other side, she made her way directly to her designated chair. The high back of her chair seemed to complement her authoritative presence as she settled into it. The Air Guardian Advisor and the Earth Guardian Advisor were engaged in a brief conversation as they strolled into the room. Their discussion held an air of familiarity and seriousness, perhaps a reflection of frequent talks about important matters together. Without sparing a glance towards the group of Guardians, they took their seats next to each other. Their posture conveyed a sense of unity, yet their attention remained focused on their private conversation. The final entrance was made by the Water Advisor, Sprinkle. Calm and composed, he moved gracefully towards his seat. As he took his place at the table, he solemnly gave a head salutation towards the group of Guardians. There was a sense of reverence in his gesture, acknowledging the presence of the Queen's daughters.

The room, once still and silent, was now filled with the presence of these elemental advisors. Each brought with them a unique aura, representing the elements they served. The air was charged with anticipation as the group of Guardians stood on one side. They had not taken a seat yet, waiting for a sign or anything that would allow them to do so.

As a hushed anticipation filled the room, the Queen made her grand entrance, as majestic as ever. Her gown, adorned with intricate details, flowed behind her, creating a theatrical and regal atmosphere. A very long cape trailed gracefully, adding a dramatic touch to her every movement. The Queen's long, vibrant red hair cascaded down her back, swaying in unison with her cape as she rushed towards her throne. Her every step exuded authority and grace, leaving a trail of elegance in her wake. Placed in between her advisors, the throne awaited her, a symbol of her position as the leader of the Guardians.

Amidst the formality of the moment, two Guardians attempted to keep pace with the Queen, running to catch up with her as she made her way to her seat. One Guardian clutched a pile of papers, while the other tried to engage the Queen in conversation. Their efforts were almost comical, reminiscent of juveniles attempting to match the pace of their sovereign. The Queen, focused on taking her seat, seemed almost oblivious to the two Guardians trailing behind. It was only when she was comfortably seated that she finally acknowledged them. With a stern gaze, she addressed the young Guardians, instructing them to wait for her outside. They looked at her, a hint of disagreement in their expressions, but the Queen waved them off with a frown, signaling that their presence was no longer needed. The two assistant Guardians exchanged glances, their faces reflecting a mixture of sadness and annoyance. In unison, they left the room, their departure marked by a subtle air of disappointment. The Queen's entrance had not only captured the attention of the entire room but had also showcased the strict hierarchy and protocols that governed the Guardian world.

The Queen, having settled into her majestic throne, turned her attention toward the group of four Guardians with a soft, welcoming smile. Her eyes, a reflection of wisdom and authority, conveyed a sense of appreciation for their presence. In a commanding yet gentle tone, she addressed the Guardians. "Take a seat," she said, gesturing toward the open chairs arranged around the circular table. The arrangement symbolized a collective space for discussions and decisions, a forum where voices could be heard and insights shared.

With the simple instruction, the Queen set the tone for the meeting. Her demeanor was both regal and approachable, inviting the Guardians to engage in the forthcoming discussions. The soft smile remained on her face as she declared, "Alright, let's start this."