Chapter 13: A Long Vacation pt 2
When the trio arrived at Linphea the atmosphere was so much different than in Princeton, it was much more floral and the air felt cleaner and less smoggy. Flora lead the way to her home while saying.
"Okay you two are gonna meet my parents and my little sister so I'm a bit nervous about that."
"It'll be okay Flora just be upfront and honest with them about who you're dating and I'm sure that they'll be okay with it." Alyssa said.
"Alyssa's right Flora. Just be honest with your family." Bloom said
As they walked through Linphea a small girl with orange hair walked up to them hugging Flora.
"Big sis.. I missed you why are you home?" the girl asked
"Well Miele, I have been given a break from Alfea until after thanksgiving, these are my girlfriends Alyssa and Bloom, where's mom and dad?"
"Oh they're at the house I'll take you there Flora."
Flora's little sister took the trio and said "oh so you three are like mom and dad except there's another person"
"That's right Miele." Flora said as they walked. The Linphean fall atmosphere was crisp, and beautiful as the four walked through the flowers and forest they felt at peace. When they got to Flora's home they were greeted by the king Rhodes and the Queen Alyssa. Flora was quick to introduce her girlfriends. "Mom, dad these are my friends from Alfea and my girlfriends Alyssa Thompson and Bloom Peters."
The Queen was quick to greet Alyssa. "So lovely to meet you Alyssa. How do you like Alfea?"
"Well your majesty,"
"Please Alyssa if you're dating Flora call me Rose or Alyssa." Rose said.
"Right my mistake Rose, well I love it at Alfea your daughter has done such a great job of making me feel welcomed and at home. You did a great job raising her."
"Why thank you Alyssa,"
"Mom, Alyssa, Bloom and I are gonna be here for a few weeks then we're going to visit Bloom's parents in Gardenia before going back to Princeton for Thanksgiving with Alyssa's mom and her brother."
"How lovely…."
"Yes but why are you not at Alfea Flora?" Her dad Rhodes asked.
"Well you see dad Alyssa has been bullied because of who she is and a few weeks ago she was in a coma and on life support, so after that happened Miss Faragonda gave us until we get back from Thanksgiving break off because Alyssa might need some rest and relaxation."
"Ah well come in dinner is almost ready. I'm making Verdant Harmony Stew and for dessert were having forest enchantment cake." Rose said leading them inside.
Once inside the smell of the verdant stew was so enchanting with the mystical morels, the heartleaf vegetable, rivermint, sylvan carrots, mystical moonhazels and the Linphean breeze herb, the aroma was nothing like Alyssa had ever smelled before and was curious about how the flavors would mesh together. When it was dinner time seating was a nightmare.
"Come on Flora let me sit next to Alyssa...I wanna sit next to her." Miele said
"Miele come on Alyssa wants to sit between me and Bloom."
Alyssa got down to Miele's level, and said "tell you what, we're gonna be here for Christmas so I'll sit next to you all week then okay sweetheart. I promise."
"Okay I guess." Miele said.
During dinner Rhodes asked "So Alyssa you're from earth correct?"
"Well yes and no…. Earth is where I grew up my whole life but I was born on Mystelar."
"Oh wow, you don't hear much about that realm anymore not since Valtor's involvement with it."
"Please tell us more mom" Flora said
Rose nodded, her voice taking on a storyteller's tone. "Many generations ago, Mystelar's royal family had a unique artifact that was said to hold immense power. Valtor, an evil sorcerer, became obsessed with this artifact and believed it would grant him unparalleled strength."
Bloom, always eager to learn, asked, "And what happened to this artifact?"
Rose continued, "The artifact's whereabouts are unknown to this day. Valtor's relentless pursuit of it led to great turmoil in Mystelar and other realms. Mystelar's connection to Valtor has been a source of sorrow for its people, but it's also a reminder of the dangers of obsession and unchecked ambition. Mystelar has been lost to the omega gate for as long as time remembers."
Flora nodded, her appreciation for her mother's wisdom evident. "Thank you, Mom, for sharing that with us. It's essential to understand our history and the mistakes of the past to ensure a harmonious future."
As they continued their meal, the Verdant Harmony Stew seemed to take on a deeper meaning. It was a reminder of the unity and balance Linphea strived to maintain, even in a world where obsession and darkness could threaten to disrupt the harmony. Around the table, the bond between friends and the knowledge shared by Rose created a sense of unity and understanding, mirroring the very essence of Linphean tradition.
The week on Linphea had been a delightful escape for Flora, Bloom, and Alyssa. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the verdant world, they had embraced the tranquility and harmony that Linphea offered. Here, the worries and challenges of their magical lives seemed to melt away.
Flora led her friends through the lush forests, each step bringing them closer to a secluded glade bathed in dappled sunlight. The air was filled with the sweet scent of Linphean blossoms, and the soft rustling of leaves provided a soothing melody.
Bloom looked around in awe, her eyes sparkling with wonder. "Flora, your home is incredible. It's like a fairy tale."
Flora smiled warmly, her connection to the natural world evident in her every step. "Thank you, Bloom. Linphea has a special place in my heart. It's where I learned to appreciate the balance of nature and the importance of harmony."
Alyssa, who had grown to love Linphea's tranquility, added, "I can see why. It's so peaceful here. And the magic of the forest is enchanting."
As they settled in the glade, Flora spread a blanket, and they enjoyed a picnic lunch made from Linphean delicacies. The food was a celebration of the world's natural bounty, and each bite felt like a taste of Linphea's essence.
Flora glanced between her two friends, her heart filled with gratitude. "I'm so glad you both could visit. It means the world to me to share this place with you."
Bloom chuckled, her spirit as bright as ever. "Well, we wouldn't have missed it for anything. Plus, I've always wanted to see where you grew up, Flora."
Alyssa nodded, her eyes reflecting the serenity of their surroundings. "It's been an incredible experience. Linphea has a unique charm."
As the day continued, they explored more of Linphea's wonders, from the luminous Glitter Falls to the ancient Whispering Woods. Each moment deepened their bond and appreciation for the natural world.
In the evenings, they returned to Flora's family home, where Flora's parents, Rhodos and Morgana, warmly welcomed their guests. Dinners were filled with laughter, stories, and Linphean cuisine that left them savoring the flavors of this magical world.
As the week on Linphea drew to a close, they found themselves under a canopy of stars, sitting around a campfire. Flora strummed a gentle melody on her guitar, and Alyssa's soft weather magic created dancing lights in the night sky.
Bloom leaned back, her heart content. "This has been an unforgettable week, Flora. Thank you for sharing your world with us."
Flora looked at her friends with affection, her voice filled with emotion. "And thank you both for being a part of my life. Linphea is magical, but the true magic is the friendship we share."
Under the starry Linphean sky, the three friends felt a bond that transcended their fairy identities. They were connected by their adventures, their shared laughter, and the profound beauty of Linphea, a world where nature and friendship thrived in perfect harmony. Before long it was time to go back to earth for Thanksgiving. As the portal from Linphea opened up to Alyssa's family home on Earth, Flora, Alyssa, and Bloom stepped through, feeling the familiar embrace of the mundane world around them. The autumn air was crisp, and the scent of fallen leaves and pine trees filled their senses.
Alyssa's face lit up with a warm smile as she looked at her two friends. "Welcome to my home, guys. I'm so excited for you to meet my brother, James."
Flora beamed with enthusiasm, already enchanted by the earthly surroundings. "Thank you for inviting us, Alyssa."
Alyssa led them towards the cozy suburban house nestled among the trees. The cheerful decorations and the scent of turkey wafting from the kitchen immediately welcomed them.
Inside, Alyssa's mother, Laura, bustled about, setting the table and checking on the turkey in the oven. When she saw her daughter and her friends, her face lit up with a warm smile. "Alyssa, you made it! And you brought your friends. It's so lovely to see you again, Flora and Bloom."
Flora stepped forward, extending her hand with a gentle grace. "Thank you for having us, Laura. Your home is beautiful, and it's always a pleasure to be here."
Bloom gave a hearty wave. "Hey there, Laura! Thanks for inviting us to your Thanksgiving."
Laura welcomed them with open arms.
As they settled around the table, Alyssa's older brother, James, who had arrived from his military duty, walked in. He was in his uniform, a proud and strong figure who had been serving in the Marines for years. Alyssa's eyes lit up at the sight of her big brother.
"James!" Alyssa exclaimed, "I can't believe you made it for Thanksgiving."
James ruffled her hair playfully. "Wouldn't miss it for the world, squirt. Glad to see you up and about."
As they shared a Thanksgiving meal together, stories flowed. Alyssa's mom, Laura, beamed with pride as her children laughed and talked. The aroma of delicious dishes filled the room.
After a particularly funny story about Alyssa's adventures at Alfea, Flora couldn't help herself. She casually said, "Speaking of adventures, James, Alyssa, Bloom, and I have been on quite a journey together lately."
James looked intrigued, and Laura raised an eyebrow, curious about where this conversation was headed.
Flora continued with a gentle smile, "In fact, you could say that the three of us have become quite close."
Bloom chimed in, "Very close."
James looked at them, sensing there was more to the story than met the eye. "Close, huh? Well, thanks for looking out for my little sister. She's been through a lot."
Laura, while dishing out the mashed potatoes, raised an amused eyebrow. "And by 'close,' I assume you mean…"
Alyssa nodded, feeling both nervous and relieved to share this part of her life with her family. "Yes, Mom. We mean that Flora, Bloom, and I are in a relationship."
Laura chuckled, setting the bowl of potatoes on the table. "Well, I'm glad you have such supportive friends."
James, not missing a beat, grinned at Alyssa, "You always did have a way of making things interesting, squirt."
The meal was a feast of traditional Thanksgiving fare – turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and an array of pies for dessert. Alyssa's heart swelled with happiness as she looked around the table, feeling grateful for the bonds of friendship and family that surrounded her.
After dinner, they settled in the cozy living room, sipping hot cocoa and sharing stories of their recent adventures at Alfea. Alyssa watched with warmth in her eyes as her friends and her family effortlessly connected, creating a sense of unity that bridged the gap between her two worlds.
As the evening drew to a close, they gathered around the fireplace, the flames casting a warm, flickering glow on their faces. Alyssa couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude for the people she cherished most in her life – her loving family and her loyal friends.
This Thanksgiving was a reminder that home wasn't just a place; it was the people who filled her life with love and laughter. Alyssa knew that, with Flora, Bloom, and her family by her side, every world she belonged to was a little brighter and more magical. After spending time back on earth it was two weeks before Christmas.
As the winter holidays approached, Bloom, Alyssa, and Flora were excitedly preparing for their trip to Linphea to spend Christmas with Flora's family, the arrived two weeks before Christmas.
Flora's home was nestled deep within a serene forest, a cozy cottage that seemed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Smoke lazily drifted from the chimney, carrying the scent of freshly baked bread and cinnamon into the crisp winter air.
When they entered the cottage, Flora's mother, Rose, enveloped them in a warm hug. "Welcome, dear friends, we're delighted to have you here for the holidays."
Alyssa and Bloom exchanged smiles as they removed their coats, feeling an immediate sense of belonging in this welcoming environment.
Over the next two weeks, the trio immersed themselves in the holiday preparations. They helped Luna decorate the cottage with festive garlands, twinkling lights, and an array of colorful ornaments. Outside, Flora's father, Rhodes, and Miele constructed an elaborate ice sculpture of a graceful winter fairy, a Linphea tradition.
On Christmas Eve, as the snow began to fall gently outside, they gathered around the fireplace, sharing stories and laughter. Flora's mother had prepared a delicious feast, including Linphea's famous winterberry pie, which Alyssa and Bloom couldn't get enough of.
A day later Flora helped Alyssa set up a video call with her mom and brother. Alyssa sat in Flora's cozy room on Linphea, her heart filled with excitement as she prepared to video call her mom and brother for Christmas. Flora had set up a laptop on her desk, and the room was adorned with festive decorations, adding to the holiday spirit. She wore a festive green sweater and had a sprig of holly in her hair, courtesy of Flora's styling.
"Are you ready, Alyssa?" Flora asked with a warm smile as she adjusted the laptop's camera.
Alyssa nodded, her cheeks flushed with excitement. "Yes, I can't wait to see Mom and James."
Flora started the video call, and the screen flickered to life, revealing Laura's smiling face. She looked radiant in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, and the room was filled with the soft glow of holiday lights.
"Hello, sweetheart! Merry Christmas!" Laura's voice exuded warmth and love.
"Merry Christmas, Mom!" Alyssa beamed. "I miss you so much."
James appeared on the screen next to Laura, wearing a Marines sweatshirt. His face lit up when he saw his little sister. "Hey there, Pipsqueak! How's Linphea treating you?"
Alyssa chuckled at James's nickname for her. "It's amazing, James! You won't believe how beautiful it is here."
Laura joined the conversation, her eyes filled with curiosity. "Flora, how are you and your family?"
Flora stepped into view, her little sister, Miele, by her side. "We're doing wonderfully, Laura, thank you for asking. And this is my younger sister, Miele."
Miele's eyes widened with curiosity as she peeked at the screen. "Is she from another realm, Flora?"
Flora nodded with a warm smile. "Yes, Miele, this is Alyssa's mom Laura, and she's calling us from earth."
Laura waved at Miele, her heart touched by the little girl's curiosity. "Hi, Miele. It's nice to meet you."
Miele giggled and waved back, her shyness slowly giving way to excitement. "Hi, Laura! Are you here for Christmas too?"
Laura chuckled, feeling a connection with the young Linphean girl. "No, Miele, sadly I'm not, I'm on earth having Christmas with my family."
Miele was sadended but then turned to Alyssa, "Alyssa come come I wanna show you what I made."
"In a minute Miele let me finish the call."
"Okay you better come outside then."
James leaned closer to the screen. "So, what's the plan for today, Alyssa? Any Linphean holiday traditions we should know about?"
Alyssa explained some of the Linphean traditions she had learned during her stay, sharing stories about the beautiful decorations, the festive music, and the delicious food, before wrapping up the call and going outside to see what Miele wanted.
Miele dragged Alyssa out and gave her a flower crown made of traditional Linphea winter flowers. "You are the princess today Alyssa and you're so pretty."
Alyssa blushed and said "thank you Miele this means a lot to me"
On Christmas day in the cozy living room of Flora's family home on Linphea, the Christmas tree sparkled with lights and ornaments, casting a warm glow across the room. Flora, Bloom, and Alyssa sat on the floor, surrounded by beautifully wrapped presents.
Flora's family, including her parents and younger siblings, were gathered around, eager to share the joy of gift-giving. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and excitement as they prepared to exchange presents.
Flora's mother, Rose, began by handing a small gift to Alyssa with a warm smile. "This is for you, Alyssa. Welcome to our Linphean Christmas celebration."
Alyssa accepted the gift with gratitude and carefully unwrapped it. Inside, she found a delicate necklace adorned with a small, shimmering leaf pendant. She gasped in delight. "It's beautiful, Rose! Thank you so much."
Flora leaned over and kissed Alyssa's cheek. "I knew you'd love it."
Next, Flora's father, Rhodes, handed a gift to Bloom. "Here you go, Bloom. Merry Christmas!"
Bloom eagerly tore open the wrapping to reveal a gardening kit with Linphean flower seeds and tools.
Her eyes sparkled with excitement. "This is amazing, Rhodes! Thank you."
Flora's younger sister, Miele, couldn't contain her excitement any longer. She handed a gift to Flora with a mischievous grin. "Open it, sis!"
Flora chuckled and unwrapped her present to find a beautifully illustrated book of Linphean flora and fauna, a gift that perfectly reflected her love for nature. She hugged Miele tightly. "Thank you, Miele. I'll cherish this."
Flora's father Rhodes, gave Alyssa a smile as he handed her a small, colorful box. "I thought you might like this."
Alyssa opened the box to find a Linphean-inspired charm bracelet, adorned with tiny charms shaped like flowers and butterflies. She couldn't help but smile. "Rhodes, this is lovely. Thank you!"
As the gift exchange continued, more beautifully wrapped packages found their way into the hands of Bloom, Flora, and Alyssa. The room was filled with excitement as each new gift was opened.
Flora's grandparents, who had joined the celebration, presented Alyssa with a meticulously crafted wooden jewelry box. Inside, Alyssa discovered Linphean gemstone earrings that sparkled like the morning dew on a Linphean flower petal. She felt overwhelmed by their generosity and gave them heartfelt thanks.
Bloom received a set of enchanting Linphean candles from Flora's aunt and uncle. When lit, the candles emitted a soothing, nature-inspired fragrance that instantly put her at ease. She couldn't wait to use them in their dorm room back at Alfea.
Alyssa decided to surprise Flora with a hand-painted portrait of the two of them together. She had worked on it during her spare moments at Alfea, and it captured their bond beautifully. Flora's eyes welled up with tears of joy as she hugged Alyssa tightly, grateful for such a meaningful gift.
Flora's little sister, Miele, excitedly handed Bloom a package. Inside was a Linphean plant that produced vibrant, luminescent flowers at night. It was a unique and captivating addition to their shared dorm room, and Bloom was thrilled.
As the gift-giving continued, the room was filled with laughter and gratitude. It was a magical Linphean Christmas, filled with love, friendship, and the spirit of giving. Each present held a special place in their hearts, a reminder of the bonds they had forged during their time at Alfea and now in the heart of Flora's family.
The evening continued with a festive feast prepared by Flora's mother, Alya, featuring delicious Linphean dishes and treats. Around the table, they shared stories, laughter, and the joy of being together on this special holiday.
As the night drew to a close, they gathered around the Christmas tree once more, this time to exchange heartfelt wishes for the year ahead. It was a moment of pure happiness and unity, a reminder of the power of friendship and the magic of the holiday season.
Bloom, Flora, and Alyssa exchanged warm smiles, knowing that this Linphean Christmas had created memories they would cherish forever. Together, they had found a second family and a home away from home, and they were filled with gratitude for the love and acceptance they had received from Flora's family.
