The legacy of blooming estate book two

Chapter ten a trap set in shadows

As twilight descended over the Blooming Estate, the members of the Society gathered in the main hall, their faces illuminated by flickering candles. The air was thick with anticipation as they worked to finalize their plan. Sophia stood at the front, feeling the weight of their collective gaze, each pair of eyes filled with determination and a hint of fear.

"Here's what we'll do," she began, her voice steady. "We'll create an illusion of the Heartstone, drawing Thalia and her followers to the edge of the woods. Meanwhile, we'll hide ourselves in the shadows, ready to confront them when they arrive."

Beatrice stepped forward, her brow furrowed in thought. "We'll need to be careful with the wards. If we create an illusion, it has to be convincing enough to draw them in but not so powerful that it reveals our presence too early."

"I can weave the illusion," Milo volunteered, excitement flashing in his eyes. "I've been practicing! I can make it look like the Heartstone is pulsing with energy."

"Perfect," Sophia replied, feeling a surge of confidence in their plan. "And Leo, I want you to coordinate our positions. We'll need to flank them when they arrive."

Leo nodded, his expression serious. "I'll make sure we're spread out enough to surround them but close enough to move quickly if things go south."

"Then we have our roles," Sophia concluded. "Let's move quickly. We don't have much time before they gather."

As the Society members dispersed to prepare, Sophia felt a mixture of hope and trepidation. They were finally taking a stand against Thalia and her followers, but the risks were greater than ever.

Outside, the sun dipped below the horizon, leaving the world cloaked in shadows. Sophia and the others moved stealthily through the estate's grounds, each step deliberate as they approached the designated spot near the woods where they would set the trap. The air was cool against her skin, the night filled with the distant rustle of leaves and the occasional hoot of an owl.

Once they reached the clearing, Milo began to weave his magic, hands moving gracefully as he conjured an illusion of the Heartstone. It flickered into existence, a radiant orb pulsating with vibrant energy. The light danced in the darkness, drawing the eye and creating an irresistible lure.

"Now we hide," Leo whispered, motioning for everyone to take their positions behind the trees and bushes that lined the clearing.

Sophia felt a rush of adrenaline as they settled into the shadows, hearts pounding in unison as they awaited the arrival of Thalia and her followers. Time seemed to stretch as they held their breath, anticipation building with every passing moment.

After what felt like an eternity, the stillness of the night was broken by the sound of footsteps crunching on leaves. Shadows began to emerge from the treeline, figures cloaked in darkness moving with purpose. Sophia's heart raced as she recognized the lead figure—the tall man from the confrontation in the estate. He was accompanied by several others, their faces obscured by hoods.

"They've come," Beatrice whispered, her eyes wide with focus.

The cloaked figures approached the illusion of the Heartstone, their eyes drawn to its radiant glow. "There it is," the tall figure murmured, a mixture of awe and greed lacing his voice. "The Heartstone's power is within reach."

Sophia exchanged a glance with Leo, silently urging him to hold their positions. The time was drawing near.

As the figures moved closer, the lead man reached out a hand, fingertips brushing against the illusion. "It's just as the legends foretold," he said, his voice thick with desire. "We can harness this power for ourselves. Thalia will be pleased."