9:20 AM
Golden Fields Region, Verdant Haven
Réel Residence
In the morning, sunlight poured through the windows, bathing the room in a cozy warmth. Maurice, wearing a sharp dark blue tuxedo with a matching cape and top hat, carefully adjusted his cufflinks. His outfit radiated sophistication and elegance, perfectly mirroring his distinguished presence.
Meanwhile, Aubert, adorned in a vibrant red tuxedo, stood before Maurice, fidgeting with the buttons as he tried to settle into his formal attire. The vibrant color of his tuxedo mirrored his youthful energy and excitement for the day ahead.
Maurice offered gentle guidance, ensuring that Aubert's tie was neatly fastened and his jacket properly aligned. Despite his initial fidgeting, Aubert's enthusiasm bubbled over as he realized the significance of the occasion.
"Are you ready, Aubert?"
"Yes, Papa! I can't wait!"
As Maurice admired Aubert's attire, a realization struck him like a bolt of inspiration. Something was missing—a finishing touch that would complete Aubert's ensemble for the grand event.
With a twinkle in his eye, Maurice realized what Aubert needed – a top hat. The perfect accessory to elevate Aubert's look and add a touch of charm and sophistication to his outfit.
"Aubert, hold on just a moment."
He then went rummaging through drawers and shelves until he found what he was searching for – a sleek black top hat adorned with a red satin ribbon.
Returning to Aubert's side, Maurice presented the top hat with a flourish, a wide grin spreading across his face.
"Aubert, my dear boy, no gentleman's ensemble is complete without a top hat."
Aubert's eyes widened in delight as he accepted the top hat, carefully placing it atop his head. The hat added a touch of sophistication to his appearance, enhancing his youthful charm and exuberance.
"Wow, Papa, it's perfect!"
Maurice beamed with pride, knowing that Aubert now looked every bit the gentleman he was meant to be.
***
As they stepped outside their cabin, the crisp morning air greeted Maurice and Aubert.
Maurice raised his hand, his voice steady as he uttered the incantation, "Reirrab."
In response to Maurice's command, a shimmering light blue barrier enveloped their cabin, forming a protective sphere that encased their home in a cocoon of magical energy.
The barrier hummed softly, pulsating with power and strength, a protection against any potential threats that might lurk in the surrounding wilderness.
Aubert watched in awe as the barrier materialized, its ethereal glow casting a soft hue over their surroundings.
"Okay, that settles it. Let's go, Aubert,"
With a flourish of his hands, Maurice chanted, "enilatsoc dliatromE ot latrop A."
As Maurice completed the incantation, a swirling vortex of crimson light materialized before them, stretching and bending the air around it in a mesmerizing display of arcane energy.
Aubert's eyes widened with wonder as he beheld the manifestation of the red portal, its shimmering surface pulsating with untold possibilities.
Curiosity piqued, Aubert turned to Maurice, his gaze alight with questions.
"Papa, what did you create? What does it do?"
"This, Aubert, is a portal to the Emerald Coastline, it's a gateway from here to Emerald Coastline."
"Emerald Coastline? What's there, Papa?"
Maurice placed a reassuring hand on Aubert's shoulder as he began to elucidate the wonders of the Emerald Coastline.
"The Emerald Coastline, Aubert, is one of the five regions of Verdant Haven, situated to the west," Maurice began, "It's a breathtaking stretch of coastline adorned with sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and charming seaside towns bustling with life."
Aubert listened intently, his imagination ignited by the vivid imagery painted by Maurice's words.
He has never explored the other parts of Verdant Haven, so visiting a new region is exciting.
"And do you know what else, Aubert?" Maurice's eyes sparkled with anticipation. "That's where I'm going to perform at the grand charity ball tonight. It's a special event where people gather to support noble causes and celebrate the beauty of life through art, music, and dance."
Aubert's eyes widened with awe, captivated by the prospect of witnessing such a grand occasion unfold in the picturesque setting of the Emerald Coastline.
"Wow, Papa, that sounds amazing!" Aubert exclaimed, his voice filled with wonder and anticipation. "I can't wait to see it!"
Maurice chuckled at Aubert's enthusiasm, his heart warmed by his son's excitement.
"I'm glad you're excited, Aubert. It's going to be a magical night."
With a mischievous gleam in his eye, Maurice scooped up Aubert in his arms.
"elbisivnI"
As he uttered the incantation a subtle shimmer enveloped them, rendering them invisible to the naked eye.
"Ready, Aubert?"
"Ready, Papa!"
Maurice then chanted, "Ylf," and with that, they ascended slightly into the air, defying gravity and soaring towards the swirling red portal that awaited them.
***
9:26 AM
Emerald Coastline, Verdant Haven
Coral Cove Market
The bustling market of Coral Cove Market comes alive with the vibrant energy of coastal commerce. Colorful awnings stretch overhead, providing shade for stalls overflowing with an array of fresh seafood, exotic fruits, and handcrafted treasures from across the seas.
Fishermen haul in their daily catches, while artisans weave intricate baskets and carve intricate seashell jewelry nearby.
The air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of grilled seafood and spices, drawing locals and tourists alike to sample the culinary delights on offer.
Musicians serenade shoppers with lively tunes, their melodies blending with the laughter of children chasing seagulls along the sandy shore.
Suddenly, a red portal manifested, surprising the people.
"A Stargate?!"
"Call a Magician!"
Unknown to them, Maurice and Aubert, who are invisible, emerged from the portal. With a deft flick of his fingers, Maurice caused the portal to vanish, prompting sighs of relief from the onlookers.
"Phew! I thought monsters were going to come out of there!"
"Same here!"
As the tension lifted, the shoppers resumed their activities, seemingly unfazed by the mysterious occurrence.
Observing the dispersed crowd, Maurice couldn't help but release a sigh of relief himself.
Despite the initial commotion caused by their arrival, they had seamlessly integrated into the bustling atmosphere of Verdant Haven's coastal gem.
"It's a good thing they just immediately went about their way after seeing my portal disappear," he muttered to himself.
In Sylvestria, where portal spells and Stargates share similarities, the subtle differences can be challenging for residents to discern. The sight of any portal often prompts a quick retreat, with people rushing to find a Magician, unsure if it might be a potentially dangerous Stargate.
"Papa, did we arrive?"
Aubert inquired, his curious eyes scanning the vibrant atmosphere of Coral Cove Market.
"Yeah, we arrived."
Maurice gently set Aubert down amidst the lively marketplace.
Aubert took a moment to scan his surroundings, absorbing the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere. His excitement bubbled over as he turned to Maurice.
"Papa, can we explore?"
Maurice checked the nearby clock – 9:27 AM. The event wasn't scheduled to start until 8 PM, giving them ample time.
"Sure," Maurice agreed, deciding to arrive early at Emerald Coastline to accompany Aubert on his first adventure outside the Golden Fields Region.