The Lost Element

"Surprise"

Liam stood in Emilia's old room, the pocket-sized gemstone glowing in his hand as he teleported back to the mansion. Memories flooded his mind as he gazed around the familiar space where they had first met.

With a deep breath, he ventured out into the grand hallway, his footsteps echoing off the walls. Suddenly, Emilia's aunt, Victoria, emerged from nowhere, a frying pan clutched in her hand, ready to strike.

Liam raised his hands in defense, shouting, "Wait! I'm here about Emilia!"

Victoria's eyes widened, and she halted, the frying pan hovering in mid-air. "Are you the one who took my poor Emilia?" she demanded, her voice stern.

Liam nodded, and Victoria's expression turned fierce. "What have you done?" she accused.

Liam took a deep breath and began to explain their entire journey, from the moment they met to Emilia's current recovery. He told her about the shadow creatures, the hunters, and their quest to protect Emilia.

Victoria listened intently, her expression softening as Liam spoke. The frying pan slowly lowered, and she looked at him with a mix of surprise and curiosity.

As Liam finished his story, Victoria's face transformed, and she looked at him with newfound understanding. "You love her, don't you?" she asked, her voice gentle.

Liam nodded, his heart open. "With all my heart," he replied.

Victoria's expression turned warm, and she nodded. "I see. Well, in that case, you're invited to stay for dinner. And we'll discuss the party plans for Emilia's birthday."

Liam sat down at the grand dining table, surrounded by the opulent decorations and warm lighting of Victoria's mansion. They feasted on a delicious meal, filled with laughter and conversation as they discussed the party plans.

Victoria's eyes sparkled with excitement as she shared her ideas for Emilia's surprise party. "We'll have to make sure she's completely surprised," she said, a sly grin spreading across her face. "I can hardly wait to see her reaction when she sees me walking through the door."

Liam chuckled, imagining Emilia's shock and delight. "She'll be overwhelmed with joy," he said, his heart swelling with love for Emilia.

As they finished dinner and the evening drew to a close, Liam realized that time had indeed flown by. It had been almost eight months since Emilia left the mansion, and so much had happened since then.

Victoria walked Liam to the door, her expression turning serious. "Thank you for taking care of my niece," she said, her voice filled with gratitude. "I know I wasn't always the most supportive, but I want you to know that I trust you now."

Liam smiled, feeling a sense of relief and appreciation. "I promise to always protect and love Emilia," he said, his voice sincere.

Victoria nodded, a small smile on her face. "I know you will. And I'll see you at the party."

With that, Liam teleported back to Emilia's side, eager to see her face light up when she saw her aunt walking through the door. The surprise party was going to be a moment to remember.

***

The morning of Emilia's 21st birthday dawned bright and sunny, filled with excitement and anticipation. Liam had been up early, cooking a delectable birthday breakfast for Emilia, complete with her favorite dishes and a sprinkle of love.

The table was set with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, and a handmade card from Liam, expressing his heartfelt wishes for her special day. The aroma of freshly baked pancakes and scrambled eggs wafted through the air, making Emilia's stomach growl with hunger.

Meanwhile, in the village, the others were busy putting the final touches on the surprise party. Ava, Elijah, and the rest of the group had transformed the village square into a vibrant celebration area, complete with balloons, streamers, and a large banner reading "Happy 21st Birthday Emilia!"

The villagers were all buzzing with excitement, eager to celebrate Emilia's special day. Marcus was bouncing with anticipation, barely able to contain his excitement.

As Emilia slept in, oblivious to the surprise awaiting her, Liam waited patiently downstairs, his eyes fixed on the clock, willing her to wake up and come down to start her special day.

The stage was set, the party was ready, and all they needed now was the guest of honor to arrive. Emilia's 21st birthday party was going to be a day she would never forget!

Emilia's eyes widened in surprise as she descended the stairs, taking in the sight of the beautifully set table and the delicious breakfast spread before her. Her heart swelled with love and appreciation for Liam's thoughtful gesture.

"Aww, Liam, you didn't have to do this!" Emilia exclaimed, her voice filled with delight.

Liam smiled, his eyes shining with love and adoration. "I wanted to make your birthday special," he said, pulling out her chair for her to sit.

Emilia's gaze fell upon the handmade card on the table, and her eyes misted with tears. "This is so sweet," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.

As she took her first bite of the fluffy pancakes, Emilia's eyes closed in rapture. "Mmm, this is amazing!" she exclaimed.

Liam chuckled, his face lighting up with joy. "I'm glad you like it," he said, pouring her a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.

Emilia opened her eyes, her gaze meeting Liam's, and she knew in that moment that this was going to be an unforgettable birthday. Little did she know, the surprises were only just beginning!

Liam's instructions were met with Emilia's delighted squeal as she hurried to put on the exquisite dress Ava had gifted her. The dress hugged her curves perfectly, its delicate fabric shimmering in the morning light. Emilia's eyes sparkled as she read the heartfelt card from Ava, her best friend's thoughtfulness touching her deeply.

With the dress in place, Liam gently tied a soft, silky blindfold around Emilia's eyes, his fingers brushing against her skin. Emilia's excitement grew, her anticipation building as she wondered what surprise lay ahead.

Sweeping her into his arms, Liam lifted Emilia effortlessly, cradling her like a princess. Emilia's laughter echoed through the air as Liam carried her out of the house, the warm sunlight dancing across her face.

As they reached the car, Liam carefully settled Emilia into the passenger seat, his hands lingering on her waist. Emilia's heart fluttered, her senses heightened as she waited for the journey to begin.

With a soft click, the car door closed, and Liam slid into the driver's seat, his eyes locked on Emilia's radiant smile. The engine purred to life, and they glided away, bound for a destination only Liam knew. Emilia's joy was palpable, her trust in Liam absolute, as she surrendered to the magic of the day.