WattpadAsianFantasy prompt: You travel to China to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival, but quickly discover everyone is riding a real dragon from Chinese Mythology!
With Tiamat sealed away and the aftermath of their ordeal lingering in her heart, Evangeline lay sprawled atop her bed, her spirit heavy and her gaze vacant. With a sigh, she curled tighter into a ball, her gaze falling on the box of feathers beside her. Jackson's betrayal had impaled her soul more than she expected. She had trusted him with her life more than once and...he chose Tiamat over her.
Her phone chimed with a notification. With a resigned huff, Evangeline mustered the strength to check the text. It was Malik this time. Olivia had probably contacted him after being unable to reach her. To her surprise, it contained a picture of plane tickets and hotel reservations. Confusion furrowed her brows as she sat up, quickly dialing his number.
He picked up immediately, interrupting her before she could utter a single word. "Don't say anything. You deserve it."
Evangeline bit down on her trembling lips. "How did you know?"
"Olivia told me everything you've been up to...and Jack's been missing," Malik replied, his tone tinged with sympathy and understanding. "We found...strange papers at his place."
"What-"
"A topic for another day, Angie," he interjected, swiftly quelling her flames of curiosity. "Go. Have fun."
And so, a couple of days later, Evangeline found herself strolling through the bustling streets of Guilin. Malik truly knew her well to have chosen such a mesmerizing destination.
Situated in the Guangxi region of China, Guilin was renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes. Its iconic karst mountains, meandering rivers, and lush greenery created a picturesque setting that effortlessly captivated visitors. Traditional music filled the air and tantalizing aromas of local delicacies wafted around. Witnessing the age-old customs and rituals added depth and meaning to the celebrations.
Evangeline inhaled deeply, savoring the moment as she headed to the Li River. The crystal-clear waters and towering limestone peaks served as a mesmerizing backdrop for the exhilarating dragon boat races that took place during the festival.
With each step, she felt her anticipation grow, drawn closer to the enchanting scene unfolding before her eyes. The kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, the rhythmic beats of drums, and the euphoric laughter that permeated the atmosphere added an extra layer of enchantment to the already stunning scenery.
As she neared the river, a view beyond her wildest imagination greeted her. Instead of boats fashioned in the shape of mythical dragons, actual creatures inhabited the water. Their eyes were peacefully closed, their expressions radiating contentment.
Evangeline gasped in wonder, her heart skipping a beat as she hurried forward, almost losing her balance on the bridge as she leaned on the rails. Her eyes drank in the sight of these majestic beings, their presence evoking a sense of wonder and awe that transcended her wildest dreams.
Her draconian blood hummed with a newfound energy that rushed through her veins like wildfire and sent a surge of exhilaration through her entire being. Pure joy stretched her lips wide until her cheeks ached.
The dragons were a breathtaking display of colors and intricate details. Some boasted scales of iridescent emerald resembling the lush foliage of an enchanted forest, others transitioned seamlessly from fiery oranges to golden yellows reminiscent of a blazing sunset. Some displayed regal hues of sapphire blue like the sky on a clear summer day, others were adorned in shades of amethyst shimmering with royal elegance.
Teams of rowers, in colorful attire, skillfully navigated their dragons through the river in a dazzling exhibition. The synchronized and perfectly choreographed paddling, accompanied by the cheers and applause of the spectators, created a joyous atmosphere and a spectacle of unity, strength, and friendly competition.
Her heart nearly burst with excitement as she was too absorbed, marveling at their long, sinuous bodies. Their slender necks arched and they undulated gracefully, mindful of their riders as they moved with an innate fluidity.
"You must be a child of Asgorath," someone said and she turned to find an old man, his spine hunched from old age but his eyes brimmed with life still. An amber aura flickered around him.
"So are you," she mused, mirroring the warm smile he shot her.
After motioning for her to follow him, he clasped his hands behind his back and led her down a long flight of stairs.
"Only those of draconian blood can see the dragons."
"Humans can't?"
He shook his head. "They see a normal boat. Magic can do wonders, my child."
Her jaw went slack as they slowed to a stop beside the magnificent beasts. Up close, they looked even bigger and more spectacular. Delicate patterns of swirling lines and interlocking shapes traced along their bodies, creating a tapestry of ancient symbols and mythical motifs. Ornate crests embellished their heads and thin whiskers extended from their faces.
"Are you interested in a ride?"
"Are you kidding?" Evangeline squealed, "Absolutely!"
Eyes crinkling, the old man laughed before muttering a spell under his breath. With a flick of his wrist, she found herself astride the head of a dragon adorned in glistening emerald and gold scales.
"No one can see you so enjoy yourself to the fullest, Miss Evangeline."
Before she can ask how he knew her name, the beast emitted a thunderous roar and lunged forward, diving headfirst into the waters.
With a gleeful scream, Evangeline's heart raced as it effortlessly sliced through the current, sending sprays of water cascading in every direction. She clung tightly to its scaled neck, her hair dancing to the wind. They surged forward, the rhythmic strokes of the dragon's massive limbs propelling them with incredible speed.
Evangeline marveled at the enchanting sights that passed by in a blur, creating breathtaking scenery for their exhilarating journey.
Spellbound, she couldn't help but be swept away by the sheer thrill of it all. Immersed in the raw beauty and power of the moment, her worries and doubts slowly faded into insignificance as the creature carried her along. With each swish of its tail, she felt a newfound sense of liberation.
Word count: 1000.
Note:
With this, the Fantasmical journey of Evangeline ends. But, her actual journey to unravel more of her ancient, draconian lineage has just begun.