Dripping Wings

Aestus was a rarity, a hybrid.
Being a crossbreed of mermaid and fae was just unheard of. Air and water. Flight and swimming. Wings and fins. Growing up half-mermaid and half-fae was more than just a challenge for Aestus. Half of her yearned to flitter in the sky, whilst half of her longed for the ocean to consume her entire being. Her magic being strong since she was born, she also fights to control it, not it to control her.

On Aestus twentieth birthday, she becomes eligible to attend the Consort Gala. An event hosted by powerful clans of all races, all wishing to extend their power through relations and marriage.
Being a hybrid between two of the strongest magic-channeling races made her an attractive candidate for powerful clans.
So how could she decline, when she receives a personal, blood-sealed invitation, all traveling and housing expenses covered, and a personal bodyguard to escort her on the trip to the gala?