"I think we should call it a day," Keith said, holding Lylah in his arms.
"You're right," Sienna agreed.
"Please, go ahead. I'll be behind you; I want to check something," I said. They nodded and headed off. Phoenix lingered nearby but didn't say anything.
I walked back to the flowers, my curiosity and concern guiding my steps. The garden, lush with various blooms, had a few patches where the Drityl flowers grew. I approached them with a mix of fascination and caution, as these plants had always intrigued me with their unique properties and potential.
I carefully plucked a Drityl flower from its stem, holding it up to the light to get a better look. The flower's petals, a deep, vibrant hue, contrasted sharply with the sharp, toxic green of the nectar glands nestled at its center. I inspected the flower closely, noting the delicate, almost iridescent quality of the petals. They were known for making a fine lotion, prized for its smooth texture and subtle fragrance. However, the real issue lay in the nectar—the part of the plant that marred its otherwise perfect qualities.
The stems of the Drityl were often harvested for their use in herbal medicine, valued for their properties in ancient remedies. They weren't typically considered for use as catalysts due to their limited chemical activity in that regard. Still, there was something about the way the Drityl seemed to almost want to be useful that captured my interest. The plant was a paradox: its potential overshadowed by its inherent danger. The nectar was notoriously poisonous, capable of causing severe harm if ingested or improperly handled. It was a perfect example of nature's duality—a plant with valuable uses but tainted by its own defenses.
The more I examined it, the more I felt a pang of frustration. Such a resourceful plant, wasted due to a single harmful trait. It made me wonder about the possibilities of overcoming its toxic properties, to harness its beneficial aspects without the risk. If only I could find a way to neutralize the poison or find a safe method to utilize its nectar, this plant could become a cornerstone in many of my research applications.
I sighed, the weight of the challenge ahead settling in. The potential for Drityl was clear, but so were the hurdles. It was a reminder of the delicate balance between nature's gifts and its perils. As I turned away, I couldn't help but think about the possibilities that lay ahead and the potential breakthroughs that might come from unraveling the mysteries of such a complex plant.
As I turned to leave, I found Phoenix's piercing gaze fixed on me. He sighed and said, "Not everyone can touch a Drityl and remain unaffected. That's impressive."
"Thank you," I said, stepping closer.
"Let's go. They're waiting," he said, and I followed him outside.
On our way back, Phoenix left at the flower shop, and Sienna didn't bother him again, preoccupied with Lylah.
When we returned, I made a small concoction for Lylah, just in case. Although she was back to her cheerful self on the road, I couldn't take any chances.
I asked Sienna about the library and spent the rest of the day there, delving into a broad study on Drityl.
"Aunt," I heard Lylah's voice and looked up to see her climbing into the chair opposite me. "You've been in here since yesterday," she said.
"I'm studying for my research," I replied.
"Thank you for saving me," she said sincerely.
"It's nothing," I said, feeling awkward.
"Is your research very important?" she asked.
"Yes," I said.
"How important is it?"
"It's a matter of life and death," I said, and she gasped.
"Then it's very important," she said, nodding. "I shouldn't bother you then," she said, but remained seated.
I tried to focus on the books in front of me, but it was difficult with her watching.
"When I grow up, I want to be like you, Aunt," she said. Can she be any cuter?
"You shouldn't try to be like me. Instead, stay confident and healthy," I advised, though she probably didn't fully understand.
"When will you be done?" she asked.
"I don't know," I replied.
"Do you want something to eat while you study?" she offered.
"Okay, thank you," I said, and she smiled before running outside.
I continued reading, absorbing as much knowledge as I could about Drityl before I resumed writing the theoretical part of my research. I needed to determine if Drityl could truly be effective.
"Mom said you should take a break," Lylah said, running back in.
"Okay," I replied, standing up. She took my hand and smiled as we walked outside.
We went to the garden where Sienna, Keith, and Dax were sitting. I hadn't realized it was noon already.
"Faina, you've been rare all day," Sienna commented.
"I was studying for my research," I explained.
"We always clear the garden," Sienna said, as if reading my mind.
"Once it starts snowing, we won't have to worry about them," Keith added.
"What do you do with them?" I asked.
"They're burned in the forest," Sienna replied.
"Can I order Drityls?" I inquired.
"Drityls?"
"Yes, I think I can use them," I said.
"Okay, well, since you asked, that's possible," Sienna said.
"It's good you asked now because once it starts snowing, they'll all be gone," Keith said.
"Does that mean you want to go back to the academy?" Sienna asked.
"Not yet. I'd like to confirm my hypothesis before moving forward," I answered. Sienna nodded.
"Just don't be scarce," she advised.
"I'll take care of your order. No need to pay; they're basically trash," Keith said, and I nodded.
I hoped everything would work out this time. I was tired of the frustrating results and couldn't afford another failure.
"Aunt, can you show me how to use magic?" Dax asked.
"You'd have to awaken your magic first," Sienna said.
"Really? How long will that take?" Dax asked.
"It depends on the person," she said. He couldn't hide his disappointment, he just looked down and stayed silent.