Place : Hyden Castle
Realm : Aracaneaum
Ethan’s Status : 3 Zyk in Fairy age (5.5 yr in human age), 3’6’’ft, growing up.
Time : Morning, 1048th Rev of Timestar.
Population : 0.00000000000000001% (Only Ten fairies and Ethan)
The bedroom was a marvel of opulence, every corner adorned with the finest luxuries the fairy realm could offer. Sunlight streamed through the delicate, pastel-colored curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of morning dew, and the gentle breeze played with the silky fabrics that draped the room’s grand furnishings. The bed, an enormous expanse of soft, fluffy clouds woven together, seemed to invite rest and dreams, easily large enough for all ten fairies to slumber in comfort.
Lira, always the first to greet the day, stretched her muscular yet graceful form with a soft yawn. Her voice, though still hushed with sleep, carried the authority of a leader.
Lira: "Wake up, fairies. It's morning."
She glanced around, noticing the gentle stirring of others, though none were quite ready to leave the comfort of the bed. Flora, however was already awake, her eyes tender as they rested on a small figure nestled against her.
Flora: "Good morning, Lira."
Lira turned her head, her surprise evident as she took in the scene. Flora was already awake, and her gaze was locked onto Ethan, who slept soundly against her chest, his tiny form almost disappearing into her soft embrace.
Lira: "Flora? You're already awake?" Lira gasped, her eyebrows raised.
Flora: "How could I sleep when my little flower is resting so peacefully?" Flora's voice was filled with warmth as she spoke, her eyes never leaving Ethan. "Just look at him, Kanthia. I can't tear my eyes away from his adorable sleeping face."
Ethan, oblivious to the waking world, had burrowed his face into Flora’s chest, finding comfort in her softness.
Nia, still half-asleep, mumbled her agreement, her voice a sleepy murmur.
Nia: "That's...correct, Flora... He's like a small, warm..." she yawned, her words trailing off, "…when he sleeps on us."
Aria, always eager when it came to Ethan, perked up at the sound of his name. She sat up quickly, her excitement palpable, her eyes bright as she looked towards Flora.
Aria: "Is he awake?" Her enthusiasm faltered slightly as she saw that Ethan was still lost in his dreams. She pouted, though her heart swelled with affection at the sight of his peaceful face. "Still asleep," she muttered, though her disappointment was light, replaced by happiness at seeing him so content.
Flora’s smile deepened as she witnessed Aria’s eager reaction. She gently cradled Ethan closer, planting a soft kiss on his cheek.
Flora: "Yes, our little flower is still asleep,"* she murmured, her voice filled with love.
As the morning light continued to fill the room, one by one, the other fairies began to awaken. Each one took a moment to look at Ethan, still nestled safely against Flora. Their hearts filled with warmth and contentment as they admired his small, peaceful form.
Mira: (now awake, brushing her long, lustrous hair) "Did he wake up at all during the night? Any nightmares?"
Flora: (with a relieved smile, though concern lingers in her eyes) "No, Mira. He slept on me like this all night. It's such a relief that he didn't have that nightmare again."
Elara: (leaning close to Ethan, her curiosity piqued) "Let me check on him." She moves closer, her eyes softening at the sight of his little face nestled completely in Flora's arms. Unable to resist, she gently kisses his tiny lips. "Hey, little lovebug," she whispers, careful not to disturb his sleep.
Then, she places her fingers gently on his head and closes her eyes, using her telepathic powers to peek into his dreams. A moment later, she giggles, her laughter bubbling up uncontrollably. "Oh...you little rascal," she says, clearly amused by what she sees.
Zara: (smiling knowingly, her intuition sharp) "He must be up to some mischief in his dreams."
Elara: (still laughing, her shoulders shaking with amusement) "No, not quite."
Nia: (with a playful tone) "Teasing Mislyra again?"
Elara shakes her head, laughing harder.
Luna: (feigning offense, but clearly amused) "Hey! He never teases me. I just play along with him. Maybe he's running off with our clothes again?"
Elara: (gasping for breath as she tries to contain her laughter) "No, no...he...he’s running...naked...in the hall!"
At this, every fairy bursts into laughter, the sound filling the grand room.
Tara: (laughing, shaking her head) "Only Ethan could dream something like that. Running naked... Oh, Ethan!" She laughs again, wiping a tear of laughter from her eye.
Sylph: (giggling and making a playful jab) "Well, at least he's saving on laundry! No clothes, no problem!"
Flora: (joining in the laughter, her chest bouncing gently with each chuckle) "Oh, this reminds me of when he was this little! Remember how he always used to dash off naked whenever we tried to put his tunic on? He'd zoom down the hallways, giggling and squealing, while we chased after him with his clothes. It was like trying to dress a slippery little fhiwu! Those were such adorable, mischievous moments."
Mira : (giggling, her eyes sparkling with mischief) "Oh, I remember how he used to dash around naked and giggling. And how Caly would always be the one to scoop him up, showering him with kisses? We'd barely get his little tunic on before he'd squirm away again!"
Nia : (chuckling, a fond look in her eyes) "How could I resist? He was just too adorable, all pink-cheeked and breathless. And when we finally got that cute little tunic on him, oh my heart! It would hang so sweetly on his tiny body, making him look like the most precious thing in the entire realm."
Luna : (nodding in agreement, her smile warm) "Absolutely! I swear, that tunic made him even more huggable. It's like it was designed to amplify his cuteness!"
Elara : (smiling warmly) "Those were such precious moments. I wonder if he still remembers them as fondly as we do?"
As the laughter continues to ripple through the room, Ethan begins to stir in his sleep. His small body shifts slightly against Flora, and in a sleepy, muffled voice, he murmurs:
Ethan: "Floraaaa...why are you all laughing...I'm sleepy..."
Flora, ever the loving, First contactestles him closer into her arms, her embrace soft and warm.
Flora: (chuckling softly) "Oh, it's nothing, Flower. We just saw you running naked in the hallway." She laughs again, the memory still fresh.
Ethan, now more awake, blinks in confusion. His small face buries deeper into Flora's big, soft chest, seeking warmth and the comfort of her love.
Ethan: "What?" he murmurs, his voice still thick with sleep. "Floraaaa..."
Flora, sensing his need for comfort and affection, pulls him even closer, her heart melting at his vulnerable state. She begins to shower his cheeks with gentle kisses, her voice a soothing melody.
Flora: "I’m here, my little flower." She presses another kiss to his forehead. "But don’t spend the whole morning here. Why don't you get up and spread your love with us all?"
Ethan, now completely buried in Flora's embrace, clings to her, not quite ready to leave the cocoon of her affection.
Ethan: (mumbling sleepily) "Umm... Later. I’m still sleepy..."
The other fairies can't help but pout with a collective "aww" at his words. Their hearts yearn to hold him in their arms, each one eager to shower him with their own love.
Aria : (with a loving pout, her eyes soft) "Come on, Ethan. We want your love too." She opens her arms invitingly, her lap ready to welcome him.
Ethan, peeking out from Flora's chest, sees Aria’s open arms and smiles, the warmth of the morning and the love surrounding him making him feel secure.
Ethan: (with a small, sleepy grin) "Okay...just a moment more..."
Flora, smiling down at him, gently shifts her position and sits up on the bed, settling Ethan comfortably in her lap.
Zara : (with a gentle, loving tone) "Come on, my little cuddle atom. It's time to wake up and share your love with all of us. We're all eager to pamper you with our affection."
Ethan, still nestled deep in Flora's embrace, mumbles sleepily, his eyes barely open.
Ethan: (in a drowsy voice) "Mmm... just five more niuts, Zara... I'm so comfy..."
Flora: (chuckling softly) "Oh, you sleepy little bud. What am I going to do with you?"
Flora, unable to resist his adorable sleepy state, begins to shower him with a flurry of playful, quick kisses all over his face. Her soft lips tickle his cheeks, forehead, and nose, causing Ethan to giggle despite his drowsiness.
Ethan: (giggling and squirming) "Flora! That tickles!"
Flora: (between kisses) "That's... the... point... my... sleepy... little... flower!"
As Ethan's giggles grow louder, Flora gently sits him up on her soft tummy. She cradles his small form against her, one hand supporting his back while the other tenderly rubs his sleepy eyes with her impossibly soft fingers.
Flora: (in a soothing voice) "There we go, sweetheart. Let's chase away those sleepy cobwebs, shall we?"
She leans in and places a gentle kiss on his small lips, her eyes twinkling with adoration.
Flora: "Now, are you ready to spread your love and let us all shower you with affection? Everyone's waiting for their morning Ethan cuddles, you know."
Ethan, now more awake and still giggling from Flora's playful assault, nods with a bright smile.
Ethan: "Okay, I'm awake. But can I have one more kiss first?"
Flora: (beaming) "Oh, my little petal. You never have to ask twice for kisses from me."
She leans in once more, planting a loving kiss on his little lips before helping him stand up on the enormous, cloud-like bed.
After a few more playful kisses, Ethan tries to stand up on the bed, stretching his small body with a yawn, but the enormous, soft mattress beneath him causes him to wobble and nearly fall. The fairies burst into giggles, their eyes twinkling with amusement as they watch him regain his balance like a tiny tightrope walker.
Sylph: (grinning mischievously) "Careful, Ethan! That bed’s trying to swallow you whole!"
Aria: (giggling, pretending to wobble) "Look at him go! It’s like watching a little liuh (a small squirrel like rodent on their realm) on a trampoline!"
Ethan puffs out his cheeks in mock annoyance, his hands on his hips as he finally manages to stand tall—well, as tall as a 3-foot-tall human child can be among 12-13 foot-tall fairies.
Ethan: (with a playful scowl) "Hey, I’m not a liuh! And this bed is like quicksand!"
Nia: (laughing, reaching out to ruffle his hair) "Aww, our brave little explorer, conquering the mighty bed!"
Ethan: (grinning despite himself) "More like the bed’s trying to conquer me..."
Luna: (holding out her arms wide) "Come here, my little moon!" She wiggles her fingers menacingly.
Ethan’s eyes widen, and he tries to dart past Luna, but she’s too quick. She scoops him up and kisses him mercilessly, making him squirm and giggle uncontrollably.
Ethan: (gasping for breath between laughs) "Luna—stop—no—kissing!"
Luna: (unable to resist, pulling Ethan back for more kisses) "Oh, you're just too adorable! I can't help myself! (She peppers his face with quick, playful kisses, cooing) "You're sooo cute, my little moon! How can anyone resist this face? (Finally, she plants a soft kiss on his small lips and pulls him in her warm hug) "Mmm… That’s my moon. I love you sooo much." (She reluctantly lets him go, her eyes twinkling with affection)
Luna: (laughing, finally letting him go) "Alright, alright! But only because you’re so cute when you giggle!"
Ethan, now thoroughly out of breath but grinning from ear to ear, stumbles into Sylph’s waiting arms. She pulls him close and hold his small hand in her and inhales his hand’s scent.
Sylph: (grinning) "Now that’s what I call a morning!"
Mira: (teasing) "Are you sure you’re not a liuh, Ethan? You’re bouncing around like one!"
Ethan: (laughing) "I’m not a liuh! I’m just—" He suddenly leaps onto Tara, wrapping his arms around her neck, "—your little charmer!"
Tara : (laughing as she catches him) "That’s right, my cute little charmer!" She squeezes him tightly, then smothers his face with more kisses, making exaggerated kissing sounds.
Ethan: (laughing and pretending to struggle) "Tara*! No more kisses, I’m drowning in kisses!"*
Zara: (joining in the fun, pulling him gently toward her) "Don’t listen to him, Tara! He needs more kisses! And more hugs! And more love!" She gives him a big hug.
Ethan: (giggling as Zara kisses him) "Okay, okay! I give up! You win!"
Aria : (pretending to be stern, but with a mischievous smile) "Ethan, there’s no escape. You’re surrounded by ten loving fairies and kiss machines!"
Elara: (with a playful wink) "And we’re not letting you go until you’re properly smothered in love!"
Ethan: (grinning, finally surrendering to the playful assault) "Alright, you win! But only because I love you all!"
As the laughter and playful banter continued, Flora stretched gracefully and got up from the enormous bed. With a warm smile, she announced, “I’m going to whip up the morning brew for everyone. But remember, don’t spoil our little flower with too much love until I get back!”
Lira immediately pulled Ethan into her lap, kissing him on the cheek with an exaggerated smooch. “What? No one can resist spoiling this cute little cuddle champ with love! Mwah!!” she declared, making everyone burst into laughter.
Flora, shaking her head with an amused smile, leaned down to Ethan, who was now comfortably nestled in Lira’s lap. “So, which one will my little flower drink today?” she asked, her voice full of affection.
Ethan, now completely snuggled into Lira, thought for a moment, his brow furrowed in concentration. *“Ummm... that blue one that glows... what was its name again...?”
Flora chuckled softly, brushing a lock of hair from his forehead. “Never mind, my sweet. I know exactly which one you mean.” She winked at him and added, “One special Glimmering Mindew Elixir coming right up, just for my little bud.”
Ethan beamed up at her, his smile bright enough to rival the morning sun. “Thank you, Flora,” he said softly, his voice filled with gratitude. Flora squeezing his cute cheeks "No…Never say thank you me ....I'll always make your favourite for you"
Flora gave him one last kiss on the top of his head before heading off to prepare the magical brew, leaving the other fairies to continue showering Ethan with affection. Lira held him close, pretending to shield him from the others with a dramatic flair. “Now, everyone, don’t overwhelm him with too much love at once! We have to ration it until Flora returns!”
Stolen novel; please report.
Lira smirked and playfully reached over, ruffling Ethan’s hair. “Too late, Lira. This little one is a love magnet. We’re powerless to resist!”
Ethan giggled, enjoying every moment of the playful attention, feeling completely adored and cherished by his giant fairy family.
As Flora returned with a tray full of glasses adorned with intricate, embossed designs inspired by ancient motifs, Ethan’s eyes lit up with excitement. He rushed across the enormous bed, barely managing to stay upright on the plush mattress. When Flora reached the edge of the bed, Ethan threw his arms around her waist, causing her to wobble slightly.
Ethan: (excitedly) “Floraaa!”
Flora: (laughing, stabilizing herself) “Whoa! Ethan, easy there! You’ll spill the brew!” Her smile was filled with affection as she tried to balance the tray.
Ethan clung to her, his small arms wrapped tightly around her waist. Flora, with one arm around him, managed to distribute the glasses to the other fairies, who eagerly accepted their morning brew.
Sylph: (taking her glass and playfully patting Ethan on the head) “Careful, Ethan! If you cling any harder, Flora might need a new tunic!” She winked at him with a mischievous grin.
Ethan: (looking up with a cheeky smile) “I’m just making sure Flora doesn’t leave without me!”
Flora settled onto the bed in her spot, gently taking Ethan in her lap. With a loving smile, she held out the glass of special Glimmering Moondew Elixir to him.
Flora: “Alright, my flower. Here’s your favorite drink.”
Ethan took a sip, his eyes widening with delight. “Mmm…, Flora. You always make the perfect drink.”
Flora: (smiling and planting a soft kiss on his forehead) “Anything for my little flower.”
Nia: (taking a sip of her own drink and glancing at Ethan, who was comfortably nestled in Flora’s lap) “He never skips Flora’s lap while having his fill. It’s his favorite spot!”
Mira: (chuckling) “Look at him. He’s practically disappeared into Flora’s lap. It’s like he’s part of the cushion now!”
Ethan: (leaning further into Flora’s embrace, resting his head on her soft, big chest) “Flora is my feeding partner. I love eating and drinking in her lap. Just like I love reading in Zara’s lap and learning magic in Tara’s lap. For feeding, Flora is the best.”
Flora: (pulling him even closer, her heart melting) “Right, sweetie. It seems like you’ve assigned us all particular tasks, haven’t you?”
Luna: (smiling warmly) “Like you love stargazing in my lap at night.”
----------------------------------------
The laughter and playful conversation around the morning brew began to fade as a more serious tone took over. Mira, with a thoughtful expression, broached a concern that had been on her mind.
Mira: “I've been wondering if we could use Zylarian Quartz to figure out Ethan’s nightmares.”
The room fell silent, with every fairy’s attention focusing on the gravity of the situation. Ethan looked up, puzzled.
Ethan: “What’s Zylarian Quartz?”
Mira: “It’s a crystal from my realm, Lizgyth. It can project what the bearer is thinking or imagining. We could use it to see what’s troubling Ethan in his dreams.”
Nia: “Can it be used while Ethan is dreaming? I mean, is it safe to try it while he’s asleep?”
Mira: “It should be. I think it’s safe as long as we use it carefully.”
Zara: “I’ve read of this crystal before. I think... it was the Vdio... fairies who used it.”
Mira: “It’s Vdaaio, Zara. And yes, the Vdaaio fairies used it with great skill. However, there was a significant issue and Valkyra Rychelle eventually banned its use.”
Aria: (leaning in with a teasing tone) “What are you two actually talking about? Can you explain it so we can all understand?”
Ethan: (struggling with the unfamiliar term) “And who are these Vdu...Vadu...Vd... Floraaaaaa!!” (He looked to Flora for help, his face scrunched in frustration.)
The fairies laughed at Ethan’s attempt to pronounce the name, and Flora pulled him closer, her heart melting at his endearing effort.
Flora: (chuckling and kissing him) “It’s Vdaaio. Now listen to Mira.”
Mira: “On Lizgyth, the Vdaaio fairies were the first to discover this crystal. They excelled in its use and began exploiting it for illegal gain. As a result, our Valkyra banned its mining and store it in safe.”
Ethan: (grumbling) “Great. More complicated names. Lak... Valy... Ugh! Can’t they just use simpler names like you all?”
The fairies laughed again at Ethan’s exasperation, and Flora gave him another affectionate kiss, enjoying his adorable frustration.
Elara: “Is it safe to use? And how exactly are we going to use it?”
Lira: “And I’m certain we can’t find it here on Arcaneum.”
Mira: “That’s correct. We’d have to go to Lizgyth to retrieve it. That’s our main issue. Once we have it, Ethan would just need to hold it while he sleeps, and we’d be able to see his dreams.”
Luna: “Hmm... It sounds like a good plan, but we can't go to Lizgyth.”
Ethan: “I have an...Idea...But..”
Elara: “What’s on your mind, Sweetie? Go on, tell us.”
Ethan: “Never mind… It’s probably a bad idea. I know it won’t work.”
Zara: “Ethan, if there’s one thing we’ve know for certain, it’s that your ideas are never bad. So, what is it?”
Ethan: (still looking uncertainly at Elara) “Well, I was thinking… I mean... it might work, but you’d have to stay awake for it, Elara.”
Elara: (with a gentle but serious look) “Ethan”
Ethan: “I thought I could sleep with you tonight, and you could keep an eye on my dreams using your telepathic powers. But you won’t get any rest, so we should probably just forget it.”
Elara: (her eyes softening as she smiled at him) “Ethan, that’s a good idea. And it’s not up to you to decide what’s too much for us when it’s about your well-being.”
Ethan: “But I don’t want to bother—”
Nia : (grinning as she leaned over and kissed his cheek) “It’s good, Ethan. While we work on getting that quartz from Lizgyth, we can do this. And it’s settled—no buts, no ifs.”
Ethan: (pouting slightly) “I just don’t want to mess up your sleep…”
Elara: (leaning in close, her voice warm and reassuring) “Ethan, we’re fairies. We can go without food, sleep, or rest for days if needed. You’re asking for just one night, but if it meant keeping you safe, I’d do it every night for the rest of my life.”
Luna: (teasing) “Besides, Elara will finally have an excuse to stay up all night without us nagging her about it.”
Sylph: (chiming in playfully) “And we’ll make sure to bring her the strongest morning brew tomorrow to keep her going!”
Ethan: (smiling now, feeling reassured) “Okay, okay, I get it. Thanks, everyone.”
Flora: (gently brushing back Ethan’s hair as she looked around at the others) “We’ll all do whatever it takes to keep those nightmares at bay, Ethan.”
Lira: “And if anything happens while you’re dreaming, you can bet we’ll be right there to chase it away.”
The fairies all nodded in agreement, their resolve to protect Ethan evident in their eyes. The atmosphere, though serious, was filled with warmth and love, as they made their final plans for the night ahead.
As the day slowly turned into night, the air in the grand castle filled with a mix of anticipation and a hint of unease. The fairies had spent the day wrapped in the warmth of their joyful life, but now, the time had come to face the unknown lurking in Ethan's dreams.
Luna: (teasingly) "Well, well, looks like someone hit the jackpot tonight! Elara, you get to snuggle with our little moon."
Elara: (smiling warmly and playfully nudging Luna) "That’s right, Luna. Ethan’s all mine tonight. Come here, my little snuggle bug." (She opened her arms wide, inviting Ethan in.)
Ethan didn’t hesitate, rushing into Elara’s embrace, burying his face into her soft chest. He looked up at her with that innocent, heart-melting smile that always made her heart skip a beat. Elara kissed his forehead, squeezing him tighter, as if to shield him from the world.
Elara: "Tonight, we’ll be watching over your dreams, sweetheart. Just to make sure those bad dreams don’t bother you."
Ethan: (His smile faded, his small voice trembling with fear as he pressed himself deeper into her protective embrace) "I’m scared, Elara…"
Elara: (wrapping her arms securely around him, her voice a gentle whisper) "Shh, don’t worry, my love. I’ll be right here, holding you close all night. Nothing will harm you while you’re in my arms."
The other fairies exchanged worried glances, the sight of Ethan’s fear tugging at their hearts. Zara leaned in closer, her voice soft and soothing.
Zara: "Ethan, you don’t have to be afraid. Just let go of all your worries and sleep. We’re all here, watching over you."
Ethan: (his voice barely audible, full of dread) "I don’t know if I can sleep like this… knowing that a nightmare is waiting for me."
Elara felt a pang of sadness hearing his words. She and the others understood his fear all too well. Gently, she nodded to the others, signaling her decision to use her powers—something she had always hesitated to do on any of them, especially Ethan. But tonight, it was necessary, even if it pained her to use magic on him.
The other fairies nodded back in silent agreement, their eyes filled with concern but also resolve. They knew this was the best way to uncover the root of Ethan’s nightmares.
Elara: (kissing him gently as she adjusted him closer to her soft chest, his small face resting against the warmth of her chest) "It’s okay, baby. Close your eyes, and let go of everything. I’m right here, and I won’t let go of you. Just relax and sleep…"
With that, Elara softly began to use her telepathic powers, sending gentle, calming waves into Ethan’s mind, lulling him into a peaceful sleep. She could feel the tension slowly leaving his small body as his breathing evened out, his fears drifting away into the night.
Elara: (whispering tenderly) "Sleep well, sweetie. We’re all here…"
As Ethan drifted into sleep, his small body nestled securely against Elara’s chest, she gently began to tap into her telepathic powers, focusing on his dreams. Her mind connected with his, and she felt the subtle pull of his subconscious as he slipped further into slumber.
Elara: (softly to Tara) "Elysia*, take my hand. I can’t project what I’m seeing to everyone, but you can. I’ll send the images to your mind, and you create the projection for the others."*
Tara: (nodding, determined) "Alright, Rynous. I’m ready."
Tara clasped Elara’s hand, and a connection formed between them. Elara delved deeper into Ethan’s dreams, sending the images to Tara, who began to project them into the air for everyone to see. At first, there was only darkness, but then the projection revealed Ethan sleeping peacefully in Elara’s embrace, his face calm and content.
Aria: (with concern) "Anything, Rynous?"
Elara: (smiling softly) "Not yet, but I can see his sweet little memories, all that adorable mischief…"
The fairies couldn’t help but smile, their hearts warmed by the sight of Ethan’s peaceful dreams. But even as they enjoyed the playful scenes of his mischief, their minds remained focused on the reason they were watching.
The night wore on, and the fairies continued to watch Ethan’s dreams. He was making mischief even in his sleep, and they chuckled at the sight of his antics.
Flora: (chuckling) "Oh, look at him! There he goes again— as a jynaid!"
Laughter bubbled up among the fairies as they watched Ethan’s innocent, carefree dream.
Nia: (grinning, her eyes sparkling with affection) "How are his dreams so cute and adorable? Can I kiss him? I just want to smother him with kisses!"
Elara: (gently) "No, Caly. If we disturb him even a little, his dreams could fade away."
Sylph: (playfully and holding his small hand in hers) "We’re all in the same boat, Caly. But we have to resist. You could always kiss me instead."
Nia: (teasingly) "You? Never! My kisses are reserved for my little snowflake!" (She winks, playfully sticking out her tongue at Sylph.)
As time passed, the lighthearted atmosphere began to shift. The images in Ethan’s dreams started to blur, becoming less distinct. Elara furrowed her brow, strengthening her telepathic connection, but the visions remained fuzzy.
Luna: (frowning) "What’s happening? We can’t see anything."
Mira: (concerned) "Rynous*… is everything alright?"*
Elara: (straining to focus) "I don’t know… Everything’s blurry… I can’t make it out…"
A tense silence filled the room as the fairies stared at the projection, their hearts pounding with unease. The images were indistinct, swirling shadows that hinted at something darker lurking beneath the surface of Ethan’s mind.
Lira: (voice low, wary) "Maybe it’s his nightmare…?"
Suddenly, a distorted sound echoed through the dreamscape, chilling the fairies to their core. A single, ominous word cut through the blurriness: “Zovrath.”
At that moment, Ethan jolted awake with a terrified scream, his voice breaking as he cried out with sudden jolt. He was panting, his chest heaving as he struggled to catch his breath. Elara quickly severed the telepathic connection, cradling him tightly against her, her heart aching as she tried to calm him.
Elara: (soothingly, her voice soft and full of love) "Ethan...Ethan.., it’s alright, baby. I’m here, you’re safe. I’ve got you."
The other fairies rushed closer, their faces etched with worry, their hearts heavy with concern. They surrounded Ethan, their presence a protective barrier of love and warmth, but the fear in their eyes was unmistakable. The name “Zovrath” lingered in the air, a dark omen of the unknown that now loomed over them all.
Ethan’s small body trembled as he panted heavily, his breath ragged and uneven. Elara held him close, feeling his heart race against her chest. The other fairies immediately surrounded him, their faces a mix of concern and determination as they tried to soothe him.
Flora: (gently stroking his hair) "Ethan, calm down, .... It’s nothing, just a bad dream. We’re all here with you."
Luna: ( softly, brushing a stray tear from his cheek) "It was just a dream, Moon. You’re safe now, I promise."
Sylph: (holding his small hand tightly and firmly, her voice tender) "I got you, Ethan. Nothing can hurt you here."
Mira: (placing a comforting hand on his back) "You’re safe, baby. Just breathe, nice and slow."
Nia: (nodding reassuringly) "We’re not going anywhere.."
Ethan’s wide, terrified eyes darted around, trying to make sense of the lingering fear that clung to him. He clutched Elara’s arm tightly, his voice trembling as he spoke.
Ethan: (his voice barely above a whisper) "What… What happened? I got scared, Elara…"
Elara’s heart ached at the fear in his voice. She pulled him even closer, wrapping her arms around him protectively.
Elara: (softly, her voice full of warmth) "It was just a dream, baby. Nothing more. Just breathe, calm down…"
Flora quickly rushed to fetch a glass of water, her movements swift and graceful. She returned in moments, holding the water out to Ethan.
Flora: (offering the glass) "Here, sweetheart. Drink some water."
With tender care, Flora brought the glass close to Ethan's small mouth. Ethan, his hands trembling slightly, grasped Flora's hand as he leaned forward. He took a deep breath, and with her steady support, he managed to gulp down the cool water. The fairies watched intently, their concern deepening as they observed how shaken he was, yet grateful for Flora's nurturing gesture
Sylph: (leaning in, still holding his small hand) "What was it, Ethan? Did you see something scary?"
Ethan: (his voice still trembling) "I saw something… It was… dark…(He clutched Elara more tightly, his small hands gripping her like a lifeline.)...Elara…"
Ethan buried his face in Elara’s chest, his body still trembling. The fairies exchanged worried glances, their unease growing. Zara, sensing how fragile he was in that moment, spoke with soothing reassurance.
Zara: (her voice calming, as if she could melt away his fears) "Don’t worry, Ethan. Just relax. We won’t ask you about it again. Just know that you’re safe with us."
Ethan slowly began to calm, though the terror hadn’t completely left his eyes. Elara continued to hold him, her embrace a protective cocoon that sheltered him from the darkness that had crept into his dreams. The fairies were all deeply worried, the name “Zovrath” echoing in their minds. They knew what it meant, and the implications weighed heavily on them.
Seeing that Ethan was still too unsettled to sleep on his own, Elara gently handed him over to Flora, knowing that her nurturing presence could soothe him back to sleep.
Elara: (with a gentle smile) "Flora, you take him. He always sleeps soundly in your arms."
Flora nodded, taking Ethan into her lap with the utmost care. She cradled him close, humming softly as she stroked his hair. Within moments, Ethan’s eyelids grew heavy, and he drifted back into sleep, the tension slowly leaving his small body.
With Ethan now asleep, the fairies’ attention turned to the troubling matter at hand. Their faces serious, as they considered the single word they had all heard: “Zovrath.” Though they had been unable to see the full extent of Ethan’s nightmare, that name alone was enough to send a shiver through them.
Luna: (her voice low, filled with concern) "We need to talk about this… This isn’t just a dream. We all know what it is."
Sylph: (nodding) "If neshis is haunting his dreams, then something more is at play here…"
Aria: (her voice firm, resolute) "That's true. But how...? Neshis is captured in Midfold..."
Zara: (her voice grave, laced with concern) "This is not good. … It’s been ages since we last heard that name."
Tara: (shock evident in her tone) "But what does this mean? And why is it appearing in Ethan’s dreams? I can’t bear to see him like this every night."
Mira: (her voice rising with emotion before she tries to control it) "Right*, Elysia. It’s unbearable. Why now? After all this time. I can’t stand it. None of us can."*
Nia: (shaking her head, confused) "But Ethan captured neshis in Midfold? How he is doing this now?"
Elara: (anxious, searching for answers) "We can't say anything right now…."
Lira (her voice calm yet loving demeanour, her voice steady as she addressed the group) : "It's his memories," she began, her gaze softening as she looked at Ethan's sleeping face. "We all know how deeply he was broken after that negative day; it shattered us all too. Even he captured Neshis in Midfold, a part of him still remembers him—whether he realizes it or not." She paused, leaning in to gently kiss Ethan's sleeping face, her affection evident. Then she straightened up, her voice firm yet soft, carrying a weight of urgency. “We must remain vigilant. If he hears that name, he might utter it without realizing the consequences. We all know what happens when someone speaks that name. We cannot allow it to slip into his consciousness.”
Everyone nods and a tense silence fell over the room as the fairies absorbed the gravity of the situation.
Flora: (her voice trembling as she cradled Ethan closer, her tears threatening to spill) "But we have to do something. We can’t let neshis torment him every night. What if… what if he becomes so frightened that he’s too scared to sleep? We can survive without sleep, but he… he’s just a small human… our everything. I can’t bear to see him suffer, not even a little."
Mira: (sitting beside Flora, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder) "Don’t worry, Flora. We’ll find a solution. We have to. Amiraha, What do you say?"
Zara: (her voice steady but troubled) "I’m just as shocked as all of you. But Flora’s right—if nemesis continues to haunt his dreams, it could lead to something much worse. All we can do for now is care for him and protect him as best we can.
Lira: (her tone firm, frustrated) "But that’s not a permanent solution. How can we stand by and watch him wake up terrified every night? Even witnessing this once is painful enough for us."
Luna: (nodding, her expression resolute) "Lira’s right. We need a permanent solution. We can’t let this continue."
Tara: (nodding in agreement) "I'll protect him, no matter what it takes. Like he saved us..... He is our heart, and nothing, not even neshis, can change that. We'll protect him."
They all nodded, their resolve strengthening. The night was far from over, and their battle had only just begun.
Aria: (looking at Elara with hope in her eyes) "Rynous*, did you see anything different or strange in his dream? Something that might help us?"*
Elara: (her voice tinged with frustration) "Nothing specific. It all became blurred, just like you all saw… and then…"
Tara: (probing gently) "Was there anything before the dream? Anything unusual?"
Elara: (thinking hard, her eyes narrowing in concentration) "I don’t think so… it was just his memories… wait…" (pausing as if something clicks in her mind) "I did see something we’ve all seen before."
Nia: (leaning in, concerned) "What? What did you see?"
Elara: (hesitant, unsure) "The same place of Negative Day."
Flora: (curious, with a hint of worry) "You sure, Rynous? Negative day"
Elara: (nodding slowly) "Yes. The same dark place. I saw it in his memories."
Zara: (her voice serious) "But how are his memories showing? You wiped them."
Elara: (affirming) "Exactly. They are resurfacing."
~~Tara: (trying to rationalize) "Maybe his memories are returning...."~~
Mira: (thoughtfully) "It’s possible. Right, Elara?"
Elara: (reflecting on the distinction) "Could be. But if his memories are taking up back, then his mind will go through same split reality problem....But it's not...he is fine..."
The room fell into a contemplative silence, each fairy pondering the implications of Elara’s words.
Nia: (breaking the silence, her voice soft) "But what is it’s not his nightmare. Maybe his mind is going through the same split reality problem."
Zara : “Could be. That’s the only explanation we have right now.”
As the fairies sat in quiet contemplation, the weight of the situation bearing down on them, Flora's quiet sobs became the only sound in the room. She gently stroked Ethan's hair, looking down at his peaceful, sleeping face nestled in her lap. Her heart ached with love for him, and with newfound determination, she spoke up.
Flora: (voice steady, despite the tears in her eyes) "We will keep this from him for now. It’s better if he doesn’t know until we find a solution."
Lira: (nodding in agreement, her voice resolute) "None of us will take take that name before him. We will keep it from him"
Elara: (her voice trembling with conflicting emotions) "I never wanted to use my telepathic powers on any of us, especially not on him. I promised him.. But now… I have no choice." (her voice grows more determined, almost raging against the situation)
Sylph: (soothingly, placing a hand on Elara’s shoulder) "Don’t burden yourself with guilt, Rynous. We all know how much this means to you, but right now, it’s all we’ve got."