The golden light erupted outward, illuminating the lurking shadows and casting flickering reflections on the walls. Undertow was momentarily blinded, squinting against the relentless brightness as the essence of Maris surged around her like the ebb and flow of the tide. In that dazzling chaos, Undertow's heart raced, caught in a whirlwind of dread and an inexplicable thrill. The name "Kayleth Lira" echoed in her mind—a haunting refrain that felt both familiar and elusive, as if uttering it would unlock some long-buried truth. "Maris! What are you doing?!" she cried, instinctively retreating from the woman who still clutched the shell locket in her trembling hands. The blinding light threatened to engulf them both if she didn't act quickly. "Let go of it!"
"Blossom, listen to me. I don't expect you to understand any of this right away, but I think it's been long enough. This necklace, your shell locket—I've known about its power for some time now. I was just afraid to tell you what it could do. I was afraid that if I did, it might bring you into danger."
"But if you knew, why didn't you say something when I saw you in the market? Why risk me coming here? And Liora Coral…" she gasped, suddenly recalling the lifeless body of her closest friend, tears starting to well up in her eyes again. Guilt flooded her as she stared at the necklace still glowing in Maris's hands, a part of her crying softly inside as she realized she probably could have saved her life.
"Blossom, I was afraid," Maris confessed, her frail voice cracking under the weight of the truth. The shell in her palms pulsed softly between them, as if reflecting their shared pain. "Afraid of the darkness that Morgana had unleashed, and what it could mean for you if you were thrust into the center of it all. I thought…I thought I could protect you by keeping you away from this knowledge."
"Protect me?" Undertow choked on her words, the rush of memories flooding back—Liora's laughter, her infectious spirit cut short so violently. Maris looked at the ground, searching the tiles of the ballroom as if they could provide her with the right thing to say next, remorse deepening the lines etched across her wrinkled face. "I know it's unforgivable. You have no idea how guilty I feel. I understand that I brought you hope while I bore the secret of your destiny. I should have done better. I should have had more faith in you—that you could handle it."
"Faith in me?" Undertow's voice edged with anger. "But if I had known about the necklace—about its power—I might have been able to save her! I could have done something to save Liora Coral, Maris!" The ballroom felt as if it were closing in around her, a whirlpool of lost dreams, unspoken words, and shattered trust. Through the shifting shadows, she could almost hear echoes of Liora's laughter, the warmth that had once filled her heart now feeling hollow and distant.
"As much as I've been truly entertained, I think it's time I cut this little betrayal short." The mocking voice of Morgana sliced through her thoughts, wrapping around her and tightening like a vise. Undertow's eyes widened in horror as she turned to face the source of the darkness that had enveloped them. She had completely forgotten the queen was still in the room with them. But what had she been doing while Undertow and Maris had spoken? Surely she couldn't have just been standing there, silently overseeing their exchange, right? No, that wasn't it. Morgana had been busy—clearly, she was very busy—busy creating, molding, reshaping. From her shimmering, polished fingertips, a three-headed beast began to take shape, emerging from the depths of glowing orange-red lava that now bubbled and churned across the floor of the ballroom. The formidable creature, reminiscent of a dog—just bigger and much, much scarier—stood imposing and fierce, its dark gray and black form defined by flames that erupted from its snarling heads. Each canine muzzle wore an expression of hunger and fury, with large, glowing yellow eyes blazing with malice as they scanned their surroundings. Its open mouths revealed rows of sharp, pointed teeth, ready to unleash a roar of fire straight at them.
"Summon, shield!" cried Maris, her voice filled with urgency as she grasped the shell locket in her hands. Energy surged around them as she invoked its power, calling forth the magic that flowed through the emblem. Suddenly, a stylized shield materialized before them—vivid and imposing. The shield was dark gray, almost black, with an intricate gold design that caught the light, shimmering with an otherworldly glow. Flowing, ornate patterns resembling vines and leaves danced around a central, symmetrical motif that seemed to pulse with life. Scattered throughout the gold patterns were smaller light teal gems, each one sparkling like droplets of distant stars—a larger teardrop-shaped teal gem sat prominently at the center, capturing the essence of hope within its depths. The edges of the shield were outlined with a beautiful golden border, giving it an air of majestic artistry, as though it had been forged from dreams and ancient magic. As the shield solidified, it hovered protectively in front of both Undertow and Maris, absorbing the beast's attack, only to then return, radiating a warm light that pushed back against the encroaching darkness that came back for a second blow.
"What is this?! I mean, how did you summon this shield?!" Morgana swept her arms wide, a triumphant smile playing on her lips as she watched the horror unfold before her. "Behold, my guardian of darkness! A creature crafted from my own special emblem! Tell me, you didn't think you were the only one who possessed one!" The three-headed beast snarled fiercely, flames licking at the edges of its powerful body, as its glowing eyes locked onto Undertow and Maris, the promise of violence sparkling in the air. Panic surged within Undertow, mixing with grief and anger, but as the creature loomed closer, something within her ignited—a fierce resolve born from loss and betrayal.
"Tell me, Maris, where is that person you summoned? The one you called Kayleth! Why haven't they shown up yet?" Maris's jaw tightened as she focused on the monstrous creature before them. "Kayleth…" she started, her voice barely above a whisper, the weight of her realization settling heavily. "They can't be summoned with mere words! I can only summon things with the small bit of power I possess that I can channel into the locket, but it's not enough to make my summons strong! To be able to summon beings like that, the owner of the locket needs to believe! They must be called upon with the owner's strength and intent!"
"I—"
"Blossom, I understand you're upset with me right now, but I really need your help if we're going to get out of here!" The creature snarled, flames curling dangerously close as it seemed ready to unleash a second blast of fire. The heat from the previous one might not have been able to hit them, thanks to the shield, but the warm air still washed over them from the remains of the explosion, surging around the ballroom that was decorated for the lavish party. Undertow clenched her fists tightly, grappling with the chaotic whirlpool of emotions that roiled inside her. She thought of Liora Coral, of all the moments they had shared together—all the laughter, the dreams, and the warmth of their friendship. The bond that had meant so much to her had given her the strength she needed when there was none.
"I—I can do this," she finally declared, her voice steadier as she locked eyes with Maris, determination blossoming deep within her. "I—I will do this. But afterwards, I demand you tell me everything."
"Of course, dear," Maris agreed, her eyes lighting up with hope and gratitude. She reached for the locket, the metallic chill glinting in the flickering light of the shield. As she brought it closer to Undertow, she felt the energy pulsing, resonating with the power of their combined intent. "Alright, here you go." The moment the locket slipped into Undertow's palms, she felt warmth begin to radiate through her, coalescing with her very being, intertwining with her bones. With every beat of her heart, she swore the locket mirrored that rhythm. Locking her fingers around it tightly, she summoned every single memory she could—the joyful moments shared with Liora Coral, the soft whispers of their dreams, the unwavering support they lent each other in times of need. If she could do anything to save her friend now, it would be this.
In that moment of focus, a vision of greatness began to unfold as she channeled the power of the locket. Her vision blurred and transformed, transporting her to a breathtaking scene within her mind's eye. A radiant female figure appeared before her, ethereal and mesmerizing. She was dressed in a flowing white gown that shimmered like the first light of dawn, situated amidst a landscape of glowing, golden vegetation that swayed gently, casting a warm halo of light around her. With long, light-gold hair cascading around her like sunlit silk, Undertow felt anxiety waver in her stomach, her mind associating the figure with a godly presence. As she took in the background sparkling with a myriad of golden lights and ethereal effects, it added to the breathtaking display. Abstract shapes resembling triangles and other geometric patterns floated above her head, enriching the magical, otherworldly atmosphere that enveloped them and infusing the moment with a timeless beauty. ''Are you Kayleth Lira?'' she whispered, her voice trembling with a blend of awe and desperation. ''I need your help, please.'' As if drawn in by her plea, the woman turned her luminous gaze toward Underow, a warm smile spreading across her golden features. ''I am Kayleth Lira : Emblem of Magic. You are Undertow Blossom, my new user?''
Undertow's heart raced, a mixture of hope and disbelief flooding her system. The warmth radiating from Kayleth enveloping her, filling the void of uncertainty that had festered within her for so long. ''Yes,'' she stammered, gathering her courage. ''I am. I can feel the locket's power, but I don't know how to wield It properly, and right now my friend and I are in danger.'' Kayleth stepped closer to her, the golden light shimmering behind as she moved across the golden floor. ''You have been chosen for a purple, Undertow. You need not be afraid of it. Within you lies an innate magic, just waiting to be awaken. But understand this: true power stems not from the locket alone, but from the strength of your heart and the clarity of your pure intention.'' Undertow nodded, her breath hitching. ''But why? How did the locket even come to me in the first place? It's like all memory of it up to this point, has been lost from my mind.''
''I'm afraid I cannot answer such a question, as I know nothing up to the point when you finally said my name.'' Undertow's brow furrowed in confusion as frustration began to stir inside of her, here she was fighting with her self worth and wondering why he was given such a powerful artifact, only to have the power inside it, not even know how she stumbled upon it, or who gave it to her? ''So you mean to say you don't know I came to possess the locket? It feels like it's a part of me, yet I can't seem to recall its origins. It's as if it chose me, and I don't even know why?'' Kayleth's shimmering form seemed to shimmer slightly, the golden light around her flickering like candle flames caught in a gentle breeze. ''The threads of fate are woven intricately, and sometimes, their connections remain obscured until the right moment. The locket chose you because your spirit resonates with its magic. In times of great need, it often reveals itself to those willing to embrace their potential. Trust that you were meant to hold its power.'' Undertow took a deep breath, attempting to digest the weight of Kayleth's words. Her mind was swirling - a blend of anxiety and determination that felt both electric and terrifying. ''But I still don't understand how I'm supposed to find the strength within me to face the danger my friend and I are in. I feel so small. What if I fail? What if I lose more friends to queen Morgana and her dark powers?'' Kayleth reached out, her golden fingers brushing against Undertow's cheek, and in that brief contact, a surge of warmth spread throughout her body. "Remember, it is not the size of the individual that determines their worth, but the size of their heart. You possess courage within you, even if you have yet to see it shine. The danger you are facing may be daunting, but it is also a catalyst. It will compel you to awaken your abilities and uncover your true self."
Undertow looked down at the locket, feeling its cool surface against her skin. "What about my friend? She's in danger because of me." Kayleth's expression softened, her voice soothing as a gentle breeze. "Your bond with your friend is important, and it will be a strength. Share the magic that resides within you. When your hearts align, it will amplify your power, and together, you can face the challenges ahead. Do not underestimate the connection you hold; it is a tapestry interwoven with courage and loyalty." Undertow's heart soared and sank simultaneously as she was reminded of Liora Coral. The sadness settled in, remaining as her mind tortured her with an image of her dead expression. "Kayleth, please, I need the power to protect those I care about. I—I can't have another friend die like Liora Coral. Please help me," she pleaded, tears brimming in her eyes. She felt the weight of her plea rip through the ethereal realm. The golden light surrounding Kayleth shimmered as if responding to her anguish, growing brighter with each heartbeat that reverberated in her chest. Stepping closer, Kayleth reached a hand out to cup Undertow's cheek. "Your love for Liora is a powerful thing, Undertow. It is that same love that can drive the strength you need to protect those you cherish. But remember, true power comes not just from the magic you wield, but from the depth of your feelings and the courage to confront your fears."
Undertow felt a surge of energy rise within her at Kayleth's words. Each memory of Liora—their shared laughter, the dreams they built together, and the unwavering support they provided each other—ignited a flame of determination in her heart. "I will not let fear paralyze me," she vowed, her voice steadier now. "I will fight! For Liora and for everyone I care about!"
"Cronous?" Undertow echoed, the name curling around her mind like a riddle. It sparked a flicker of recognition, and her thoughts raced. Could that be the name of Morgana's spirit? After all, the queen had mentioned possessing an emblem similar to Undertow's locket, a mark of power that could harness both creation and destruction. The implications sent a chill down her spine. "What happened to Cronous?" she asked, her voice steady despite the unease settling in her chest. "Did Morgana... is he trapped in her power?" In response to her question, Undertow noticed Kayleth's glow dim slightly, reflecting sorrow and sadness in her expression. "Cronous was once an emblem used for good, much like I am. Back in the day, there were the three of us: the Three Ancient Shells of Aetherium. Cronous, the Emblem of Change; me, Kayleth, the Emblem of Magic; and Maisley, the Emblem of Health and Resurrection." An ache filled Undertow's heart as she listened intently, sensing the weight of Kayleth's memories. "That's incredible."
"We were. The gods saw great promise in what we could do, so, by agreement between Poseidon and Zeus, we were given to the realm of water. Our purpose was to nurture balance through our gifts with the help of the beings who were bestowed the strength to wield us. I was gifted to a young mermaid princess, soon to be queen, by her partner on their anniversary. Alas, Cronous and Maisley weren't so lucky." Kayleth's voice trembled with the weight of nostalgia and loss, her radiant glow flickering with sadness. Undertow felt a pang of compassion as she listened, imagining the vibrant world Kayleth had once inhabited, filled with laughter and love. "What do you mean they weren't so lucky?" Undertow asked gently, drawing Kayleth's gaze.
Kayleth's expression turned sober, the weight of her memories evident in her gaze. "Cronous had his emblem placed in the hands of a reckless young sailor who sold the locket to what he thought was a beautiful young woman with brunette hair. This woman, however, was Ursula, Morgana's older sister, in disguise. She manipulated the sailor's dreams of an adventurous life, promising him all the excitement and riches he could imagine, along with a charming partner by his side. In exchange for the emblem, she led him to believe that immense fortune awaited him." Undertow listened intently, the pieces of the tale weaving together like a tapestry of betrayal and loss. "And it didn't end well for him, did it?" she asked quietly, her heart heavy. Kayleth sighed, her voice tinged with sorrow. "No, it was a grave mistake. The sailor, blinded by his dreams and desires, never suspected the truth. Ursula's deceit not only cost him his life but also unleashed a series of events that led to Cronous's descent into darkness. After Ursula died in a confrontation with the forces of fate—caught in her own web of manipulation—the emblem somehow passed to Morgana. It became an instrument of chaos, wielded by a heart that thrived on power and despair rather than love and hope."
Undertow shuddered at the horrible thought. "So, Ursula inherited the power meant for good and twisted it for her own dark purposes. Then when she passed, Cronous was given to her younger sister Morgana, who uses it today to carry out her own personal gain?" Kayleth nodded, her expression somber yet resolute. "Exactly. The cycle of corruption began with Ursula's deceit, and now Morgana wields that power, channeling it into chaos and manipulation. What was once a force for positive change has become a tool of oppression." Undertow's heart raced as the weight of that truth sank in. "And because of this, Cronous is trapped within Morgana's grasp, lost to the darkness that has twisted his original purpose. What a tragic fate for an emblem that was meant to inspire growth and transformation."
"Yes," Kayleth replied, her voice filled with compassion. "Cronous was meant to embody the potential for change, the hope of new beginnings. Instead, he has become a reflection of Morgana's insatiable greed for power. We must act quickly to free him and restore his true essence before it fades beyond recovery."
"What can we do?" Undertow asked, her resolve hardening. "How do we reach Cronous?" Kayleth considered her words carefully, her eyes reflecting a determination that resonated deeply with Undertow. "We must confront Morgana and challenge her control over Cronous's emblem. This will not be easy, as she has fortified herself with dark magic and deception. But if you bring the love and strength you draw from your friends, along with your own strength, you may stand a chance." Undertow took a deep breath, feeling the warm weight of the locket in her hands. "I won't let Morgana's darkness overshadow the love we've shared. I will fight for Cronous and everyone she has ever harmed."
"We might stand a better chance if you can somehow locate Maisley's emblem." Kayleth nodded thoughtfully at Undertow's suggestion. "You're right. If we can locate Maisley's emblem, we might not only strengthen our chances against Morgana but also offer hope to her spirit. Maisley's healing powers could prove invaluable in our fight, especially as we confront the darkness that has consumed Cronous."
"How do we find her emblem?" Undertow asked, urgency lacing her voice. "If she's been hiding all this time, how can we reach her?" Kayleth's expression shifted as she focused, her brows furrowing in concentration. "The emblems are intrinsically tied to their wielders. If I can tap into the essence of the water and the currents that flow through our realm, I might be able to sense where Maisley's emblem has been concealed. The waters have a memory, and they may reveal the truth to me." Undertow felt a surge of hope at Kayleth's words. "Then we must do that! We have to find her before we confront Morgana. If we can rally together, we may be stronger than we realize." With a resolute nod, Kayleth began to chant softly, her voice weaving through the fabric of the water that surrounded them. The air shimmered with energy as she called upon the currents to guide her, the magic pulsating with each word she spoke. "Speak to me, oh depths of the waters," Kayleth intoned, her eyes closed in concentration. "Where lies the emblem of Maisley, the healer? Show us the currents of fate that bind us together." As if on que the golden floor began to flow as if it were made up of water, visions began to coalesce within the currents, glimpses of a serene underwater grove, vibrant and untouched, where light broke the surface, illuminating a small, glimmering emblem nestled among the coral. At the sight Undertow's heart raced as she realized they were on the verge of discovering Maisely's location. ''There! It's right there!'' she shouted, pointing toward the swirling golden water, where the image of the grove became clearlier and clearlier the more the water worked its magic. ''I see it! The emblem! It's there!'' she repeated, however her heart sank as the vision seemed to pull back a little, only to reveal the sign which read a place that could only be coincidence.
''Eldoria. Maisely's emblem is in the realm of Eldoria.'' she whispered. Kayleth's expression shifted with a mix of recognition and concern, following Undertow's as they both seemed to show concern, knowing what it meant. ''Eldoria,'' she repeated softly, weight the name like it was a delicate feather upon her palms. ''Home to the elves. I heard stories from Maris about their celebration called ''The Night of Stars'' she told me that's the only day in which the realm is opened to other creatures from other realms who don't live there. How am I even supposed to get inside a place like that? I'm not a elven citizen and with ''The Night of Stars having passed, who knows how long it'll be until there's another one?!''
''Perhaps a transformation spell would be helpful right now.'' Kayleth suggested. Undertow's heart sank further at the mention of the transformation spell. The idea felt daunting, and the clock was ticking against them. ''A transformation spell?'' she repeated, her brow furrowing. ''But I've never performed one before. The only reason I was able to come here in the first place, was because Maris told me your name. If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't even know my locket possessed this kind of magic, or that it was a token from the gods?'' Kayleth's expression softened at Undertow's admission. "You are underestimating yourself, my dear. Just because you have not performed a transformation spell before does not mean you cannot do so now. The magic within the locket—the magic within you—is connected to the very essence of this world. It responds to your intent and your desire to protect those you love. Also now that you've said my name, and our contract is in effect, you shouldn't have any limitations on your spells, you have my full power, so use it.''
"But what if I can't do it?" Undertow's voice trembled with uncertainty. She could feel the weight of the task pressing down on her, a mixture of fear and responsibility swirling within her. "What if I mess it up and it ends badly? What if I transform into something I can't control?"
"Every great sorceress began with doubts," Kayleth reassured her, her voice firm yet gentle. "You possess a courage that is rare, and I can sense the potential inside you. Remember, it is not just about casting a spell; it is about embodying the spirit you wish to invoke. Transformation is as much about the heart as it is about magic. Believe in yourself, Undertow." Taking a deep breath, Undertow closed her eyes for a moment, trying to steady her racing heart. "What do I need to do to ensure the spell works? How can I channel my intent fully?"
"Focus on the qualities that define the elves—grace, agility, wisdom, and connection to nature. Visualize yourself as one of them, feeling the magic that flows through Eldoria and their lands. Let that connection be your guide," Kayleth instructed. "And when you are ready, I will help you with the incantation. You are not alone in this."
Undertow opened her eyes, determination beginning to replace her doubt. "Okay. I'll try."
''Very well. Just think of the locket while you do it,'' Kayleth prompted, her voice soothing yet commanding. ''Feel its magic, and allow it to amplify your intent. Let the essence of the elves wash over you.'' Undertow took hold of the locket once more, feeling it warmth pulse against her skin, a rhythm that matched the beating of her own heart. A vision of the elves fitted through her mind: their laughter, their elegance, the way they moved with such ease and grace, everything she could think of as each image ignited a flicker of magic within her, sparking a connection she hadn't fully realized existed. ''I want to become one with the magic of Eldoria.'' Taking a deep breath, she raised her voice, allowing every ounce of her hope and determination to flow into her words. ''By the grace of the ancients, I embrace the form of the light, to move through shadows and into the night. Let me blend with the forest's embrace as I walk the path of the elven race!'' As the final syllable left her lips, magic surged around her, a shimmering light enveloping her like a cocoon. She could feel the energy swirling, metamorphosing her very essence. Colors danced before her eyes, and the sensations of fear and doubt melted away, replaced now by a sense of belonging and purpose. When the light finally receded, Undertow opened her eyes, and her breath caught in her throat at her new transformation.