Mystic Allure

Chapter One

The Hand Mark

     In the gentle embrace of a warm summer evening, Stella's steps were accompanied by a refreshing breeze rustling through the trees. The sky painted hues of orange and pink as the sun bid farewell, casting a golden glow on the horizon. Stella, a tall brunette with a heart full of dreams, walked homeward from her job as a florist. Her heart danced with the rhythm of nature, and a smile adorned her face as her home came into view, promising solace after a long day's toil.

Approaching the entrance with a quickened pace, anticipation bubbled within her. Eager to unwind, she fumbled with her keys, and that's when she noticed it – a mysterious mark unfolding on her right hand, its intricate design resembling a Celtic rune. Her furrowed brows betrayed her confusion, and a muttered inquiry escaped her lips as she managed to unlock the door, calling out for her aunt Maggie.

Amidst a symphony of kitchen sounds, Maggie emerged – a smaller woman with chic circular glasses, perfectly curled grey hair, and a robe that hinted at a world beyond the mundane. Stella, presenting her marked hand, sought answers. In response, Maggie's face lit up with joy as she revealed, "You became a Mystic!" Her enthusiasm, however, met Stella's perplexed expression, for the term "Mystic" held no familiarity for her.

Maggie, undeterred by Stella's lack of understanding, proceeded to unveil the mystical truth. The mark, now shared by both, symbolized their connection to a lineage of powerful beings known as Mystics. Stella, caught in a moment of disbelief, erupted into laughter at the notion of being a "powerful creature." The shift in Maggie's expression, from joy to stern scowl, marked Stella's sudden realization as she received a playful slap for her perceived rudeness.

Amidst the laughter and stern gestures, Stella's curiosity emerged. Why had she remained ignorant of this mystical heritage until now? Maggie's eyes locked onto Stella's, and a solemn exhale preceded the revelation – Mystics were forbidden to disclose their existence to humans until the latter manifested their powers. Stella stood, a blend of confusion and realization etched on her face.

As the conversation unfolded, Maggie proposed a day off for Stella, teasing a promise of something special yet time-consuming. A reluctant nod from Stella followed, who, resignedly, began crafting a whimsical excuse for her boss. Suddenly, the serenity shattered by an alarm, Maggie hurried back to the kitchen, leaving Stella to mutter about burnt soup as she dialed the nearest pizza joint, ushering in an unexpected twist to this enchanting evening.

     After placing the pizza order, Stella sank onto her bed, the enigma of Mystics swirling in her thoughts. Recollecting the past, she pondered moments that hinted at Maggie's mystical nature. One such memory unfolded when, at the age of eight, Maggie took Stella to the local arboretum, initiating her into the wonders of nature. Stella's innocent questions about the growth of Venus fly traps echoed in her mind, "Wouldn't it be amazing to see such plants hundred times the size?"and Maggie's promise to reveal more when the time was right lingered.

     The scene shifted to their visit to the orchid aisle, a place where Stella's fascination with nature deepened. Maggie, with an infectious zeal, pointed out the beauty of orchids, particularly the blue ones that captivated Stella's gaze. The air was filled with enchantment as they concluded their adventure, Stella running off to play with birthday toys, while Maggie, with a graceful incantation, transported herself to a magical realm hidden behind the facade of her pantry.

     In this ethereal world, Maggie strolled through a town bustling with mystical beings. From pixies to elves, the vibrant tapestry of creatures adorned the medieval-like streets. Maggie, seemingly a familiar figure, attracted attention, and snippets of conversations revealed her status as Magistus Malis, a name whispered with awe and disbelief by young elves. With purpose, she arrived at a shop, "Fae's Florals," hidden beneath a seemingly worn exterior at the corner of a street named Flicker.