Chapter 79 — THE RUNWAY.
As the new year drew closer, Ethan found himself discussing his plan to visit the Temple of Flames with Alrond. It had been a topic of debate for months, with both brothers reluctant to leave Silverwood. However, Ethan finally made the decision that he and Alrond would embark on this journey together.
Ethan turned to his brother, a sense of determination in his eyes. “Alrond, we can’t delay this any longer. The information we seek at the Temple of Flames is crucial. I’ve thought about it, and I believe it’s best if we go together.”
Alrond nodded, understanding the gravity of their mission. “You’re right, Ethan. We can’t afford to wait any longer. Let’s prepare and leave as soon as possible.”
Ethan smiled at this, the fact that Alrond accepted be by his side during this journey was so comforting to hear. He was extremely grateful to his little brother.
Amara was busy preparing for a glamorous runway show that was set to take place on Christmas Eve. She had decided to wear the diamond necklace Ethan had gifted her, a dazzling piece that had become a symbol of their love. She couldn’t resist the opportunity to showcase it to the world. She invited Ethan over as she had her makeup done by professional artists, while Ethan just sat by the side watching.
As she put the finishing touches on her makeup, she turned to Ethan with a smile. “Ethan, I’ve decided to wear the diamond necklace you gave me for the runway show. I want everyone to see its beauty. Will you be there in the audience?”
Ethan couldn’t help but be captivated by Amara’s beauty and grace. He nodded, his eyes filled with admiration. “Of course, Amara. I wouldn’t miss it for the world. You’re going to shine on that runway.”
On Christmas Eve, the streets of Silverwood came alive with a festive spirit. The air was filled with the sound of carolers singing joyful melodies, and the streets were adorned with colorful lights and decorations. Families and friends gathered to celebrate the holiday, their laughter and merriment filling the night.
In the heart of Northside Silverwood, where the snow-covered hills embraced the town like a protective guardian, the Christmas season arrived with an enchanting air of anticipation. The townsfolk had long prepared for this magical time of year, and as the days grew shorter and colder, the entire community came alive with festive spirit.
The cobblestone streets of Northside Silverwood were now a canvas of winter wonder. Twinkling lights adorned every lamppost, casting a warm, inviting glow that illuminated the path for townspeople and visitors alike. The old-fashioned houses, their roofs dusted with freshly fallen snow, exuded a storybook charm that seemed to come alive during this special season.
Families bustled about, wrapped in cozy scarves and mittens, their breath visible in the crisp, chilly air. Children laughed with delight as they sculpted snowmen with carrot noses and coal eyes, adding a touch of whimsy to the already picturesque streets.
The storefronts, each with its own unique character, donned holiday attire that rivaled the cheeriest of elves. Intricate window displays featured scenes of Santa’s workshop, complete with toy soldiers and reindeer, while others showcased a winter wonderland of glistening icicles and frosted landscapes. Shopkeepers had outdone themselves in creating a visual feast that drew shoppers seeking the perfect gifts for their loved ones.
And what would Christmas in Northside Silverwood be without the sweet sound of carolers? Dressed in Victorian-inspired costumes, they roamed the streets, their voices blending harmoniously to fill the air with timeless melodies. Songs of joy and goodwill echoed through the town, kindling the festive spirit in the hearts of all who listened.
In the town square, a bustling Christmas market came to life. Vendors displayed their wares in charming wooden stalls adorned with holly and pine. The aroma of freshly roasted chestnuts, cinnamon-spiced pastries, and mulled cider wafted through the air, tempting passersby with their irresistible scents. Shoppers explored the market, searching for handcrafted ornaments, unique gifts, and festive treats to savor by the cozy fireside.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the town square’s towering Christmas tree came to life in a blaze of twinkling lights. Its radiant splendor, reflected in the eyes of awe-struck children, marked the official beginning of the season’s festivities.
In Northside Silverwood, the Christmas season was not merely a holiday; it was a living, breathing enchantment that united the community in joy and togetherness. With each passing day, the magic of the season grew, weaving a tapestry of memories and traditions that would be cherished for generations to come.
At the runway show, anticipation buzzed through the crowd as they eagerly awaited the models to take the stage. The models came and left one by one, each more stunning than the other. When it was Amara’s turn, all eyes were on her as she gracefully walked down the runway. Her presence was mesmerizing, and the diamond necklace around her neck caught the light, creating a dazzling display that left the audience in awe.
Ethan watched in awe as Amara owned the runway, his heart swelling with pride. He knew she was destined for greatness, and he couldn’t have been prouder of her.
At the end of her runway walk, Ethan couldn’t contain his excitement. He rushed forward, swept Amara into his arms, and spun her around. Their love was palpable, radiating from them like an enchanting aura.
As they made their way to Ethan’s car, they relished in the private moment they could steal amidst the chaos of the event. Ethan’s gaze locked onto Amara’s, and he whispered, “You were absolutely stunning out there, Amara. You shine brighter than any star.”
Amara blushed, feeling overwhelmed by his words. “Thank you, Ethan. It means the world to me that you were here.”
Unable to hold himself back, he leaned over and pressed his lips against hers. They kissed for a long while, when Ethan’s breath became raspy. He began to kiss around her neck, and her chest. Almost like he wanted more than kissing.
“We are in the car Ethan, except you want to have sex inside the car, that would be a first,” Amara said.
“Just say the world, and I’ll make you feel so good,” he answered.
Their moment of bliss, however, was abruptly interrupted when a group of witches surrounded them, their eyes fixed on Amara.
Ethan wasn’t expecting this at all, so he told Amara to stay put while he went out of the car to meet the witches. When the witches saw it was Ethan, they hesitated for a while, but later stepped forward.
They demanded the gem that they believed Amara possessed.
Amara was bewildered, her fingers instinctively touching the diamond necklace. “I don’t have any gem. This is just a necklace.”
The witches, undeterred, insisted that she emitted the aura of a powerful gem. Ethan, not understanding the situation fully, stepped forward, ready to defend Amara despite his weakened state.
Just as the confrontation was about to escalate, Alrond appeared seemingly out of nowhere, his presence imposing and commanding. He stepped in to diffuse the situation, addressing the witches with authority. “Enough of this. We won’t be handing over anything. Leave now, or you’ll face the consequences.”
The witches hesitated for a moment before retreating, unwilling to challenge the authority of Ethan and the power he wielded as an alpha. They didn’t know about his weakened state, so they retreated almost immediately. As they faded into the shadows, the tension in the air dissipated.
Ethan turned to Alrond, gratitude in his eyes. “Thank you, Alrond. I didn’t know what they were after.”
Alrond nodded, his expression serious. “We can’t underestimate the supernatural forces at play. We need to stay vigilant. Let’s go back to the palace and discuss our next steps.”
“What gem were they asking for though?” Ethan asked.
Alrond turned to look at Amara who was still inside the car, her hand on the diamond necklace. It dawned on him that, that was what they came looking for.
The third gem of Arcata.