Camila hadn't laid eyes on Eda's face for fourteen long years, an excruciatingly long time since her life had taken a turn for the better. It was then that she had taken in a radiant little bundle that Eda's note had described as a hope for light in Camila's life. As a result, Camila gave the child the name Luz; meaning light in Spanish.
Her love for Luz knew no bounds. She loved her daughter with her whole heart and soul.
From the very beginning, Camila and Manny decided to withhold the truth about Luz's origins. After years had swept past without a trace of Eda, they concluded that it was in Luz's best interest to remain unaware. In her eyes, Camila and Manny were her biological parents.
As time passed, Luz grew into a clever and independent young girl, mirroring the spirited nature of her adoptive father.
Luz and Manny would frequently go on hikes through the forest that lay just beyond their home. Together, they would explore the winding trails and streams. And whenever her schedule allowed, Camila would join them, momentarily getting away from her hectic life as a veterinarian. They taught Luz how to track animals through their footprints and droppings, and educated her on the identification of various plants and mushrooms. They passed along their knowledge of how to build fires and craft makeshift shelters.
Luz's affinity for the outdoors flourished as a result. She possessed a love for snakes and other reptiles and amphibians. With gentle care, she would capture these creatures, marveling at the intricate patterns and vibrant colours of their scales. She would give them names and engage in conversations, as if they understand her words. On occasion, both Manny and Camila were convinced that the creatures truly did understand her.
Amused by Luz's extraordinary ability to bond with any animal she encountered, Manny affectionately dubbed her his little Disney princess. While she was a bit different from the other little girls, both Manny and Camila found this trait endearing.
Manny worked as a zookeeper at the local zoo, a job he adored and enjoyed sharing with Luz. During closed hours, he would occasionally bring Luz to the zoo, where she would sit in front of the enclosures. Astonishingly, the animals would gravitate towards her, captivated by her presence. Luz would make playful faces and gestures, and the animals would reciprocate.
A similar event occurred whenever Camila brought Luz to the veterinary clinic. Dogs, cats, birds, and other pets would exhibit a curious behavior, unlike with anyone else. Instead of scratching or biting, they would purr, nestle, and display an unwavering trust in Luz.
Luz practically radiated joy, perpetually adorned with a smile that illuminated the world around her, even though she lacked friends her own age. She did not mind solitude as long as she had her books and her beloved animals. She had a very vivid imagination and a creative mind, she delighted in drawing, writing, and concocting fantastical tales and characters.
However, everything changed three years ago when Manny received a devastating cancer diagnosis, ultimately succumbing to the illness.
As Luz was forced to witness to her father's gradual decline, her light waned. She was determined to be brave and cheerful for him, but at night she struggled to hide her true feelings; anguish and fear. Each night, she would cry herself to sleep, clutching onto his old worn-out shirt.
Each year, on the anniversary of Manny's passing, Luz and her mother would visit his gravesite, tenderly laying flowers as a tribute. For hours, Luz would sit beside the tombstone and recount the cherished book he had left for her: "The Good Witch Azura." This fantastical tale told the story of a young witch embarking on magical adventures. Luz treasured the book above all else, finding refuge within its pages, a world where limitless possibilities abounded.
Although it took a long time, both Luz and her mother gradually embarked on a journey of healing.
Manny's legacy breathed life back into Luz's spirit, rekindling her light through the wondrous realm of magic he had given her. She eagerly devoured every book she could find on magic and witches, immersing herself in the realms of spells, potions, curses, and charms. With chalk and candles, she practiced creating intricate magic circles, pretending to cast spells using sticks and stones. In her dreams, she soared on a broomstick, accompanied by a faithful familiar, aspiring to become a witch just like Azura.
Camila was happy to see that. She thought Luz would be okay. She was always worried about Luz because as she unexpectedly became a single parent, she had to work extra shifts at the clinic. She left Luz alone a lot before and after school. But it wasn't all bad. Luz understood that her mother was doing her best for them. In an attempt to spend time together, Luz would go with her mom to work on Saturdays, then they would have all day Sunday together. They would watch movies, play games, and bake treats or perhaps go shopping or do whatever they felt like doing. They would hug each other and say "I love you" every day.
But as Luz grew older, she slowly started to spend less and less time with her mother. She wouldn't go with her to work on Saturdays anymore and she would sometimes disappear for the whole day on Sundays.
It was at that time that Luz became more absorbed in her fantasy books. The Good Witch Azura was only the beginning. After she read that book and its four sequels, she devoured anything and everything that had to do with magic and mythology. She read about witches and wizards, fairies and dragons, elves and dwarves, mermaids and unicorns. She read about ancient legends and modern myths, dark curses and bright spells, enchanted lands and hidden realms.
Her room was filled with metaphysical objects that she scavenged from yard sales and shops that sold discounted items. She would often bring home candles and incense, tarot cards and runes, crystals and pendulums, amulets and talismans. Her walls were adorned with books and journals, maps and posters, stickers and pins, figurines and plushies. She had a collection of wands that she made out of old twigs that she found in the forest by the old cabin. She decorated them with ribbons and beads, feathers and flowers, charms and crystals. Her room truly was a witch's paradise.
She would often go deep into the woods, feeling enchanted by the nature surrounding her as she made her way along the winding trails that she knew like the back of her hand. With a backpack brimming with many snacks and essential supplies, she embarked on her forest expeditions.
In this mystical realm of hers, she transformed herself into Azura, or as she dubbed herself, Luzura. She immersed herself in grand adventures. Armed with her trusty wands, she fearlessly battled imaginary monsters lurking in the shadows. She unraveled perplexing riddles and solved intricate puzzles, seeking hidden treasures and unraveling long-kept secrets with the aid of her maps. The animals and plants of the woods became her loyal companions, engaging in spirited conversations as if they were her dearest friends or loyal animal sidekicks.
Amidst these captivating escapades, she stumbled upon a weathered, old cabin nestled within the heart of the woods. Intrigued and inexplicably drawn to it, she couldn't resist the allure of its rustic charm. The cabin, adorned with a thatched roof and a stone chimney, exuded an air of mystery. The door, barely clinging to its hinges, beckoned her to explore its hidden depths.
After ensuring it was abandoned, she claimed the cabin as her own sanctuary, a haven away from the confines of her everyday life. Within its walls, she could be her authentic self, free from the torment of bullies and the weight of societal expectations... the expectations that her mother would place on her to make friends.
Luz carefully brought some of her treasured belongings from home, meticulously arranging them within the cabin's cozy interior. As she settled into her newfound refuge, a sense of belonging washed over her. It felt as though she had stepped into the very essence of her beloved fantasies, where her imagination could roam free.
Yet, while her mother had been concerned of Luz disappearing for so long and need to cling to a reality outside of this one. The sanctuary Luz sought in the cabin harboured a deeper concern. Luz's imagination blurred the boundaries between fiction and reality when she started to visit it more often, leaving her unable to discern the line that separated the two realms. As months passed these tendencies only intensified. She wholeheartedly embraced the belief in magic, accepting her role as a true witch. She diligently studied spells from the pages of her books, even attempting to concoct potions using the various ingredients she had meticulously collected and stored in her room.
One day, Camila even took Luz to see a psychologist for help. That initially didn't do anything to dissuade Luz. However, Luz accidentally overheard her mother's whispered concerns during a sleepless night, worry etched into her voice. Aware of her mother's apprehensions and her talks to Luz, Luz gradually reduced her visits to the cabin, choosing to spend more time at home instead. She was determined to make her mother proud and embody the person she envisioned for her, Luz wanted to prove herself. She wanted to prove that she did know the difference between her fantasies and what was real.
The only issue was that stood in her way was that to her, her fantasies were real just as real as she was.
One fateful evening, after devouring the latest installment of "The Good Witch Azura," Luz prepared herself to deliver a captivating book report. Determined to amaze her audience, she positioned herself in her room, capturing her animated self on the computer screen.
Luz found solace in the glow of her computer screen. With a delicate touch, she adjusted the webcam, ensuring that her face was perfectly framed within the screen.
Ever since her father's untimely departure, Luz found refuge in making video diaries. It became her sanctuary, a channel to express her deepest thoughts and unspoken conversations with her father. It was as if, through the lens, she could bridge the gap between their worlds, finding solace in the illusion of his presence.
The soft hum of the camera's recording echoed through the room as she began to speak.
"Mija, if you just applied yourself..." Luz mimicked, her voice tinged with both annoyance and longing, as she recalled the countless times her mother had uttered those words. The weight of her mother's expectations bore down on her, leaving her feeling both misunderstood and unseen. "But I am applying myself. Or, at least I thought I was..."
The weight of her emotions intensified as Luz's gaze shifted to the book resting gently in her hands. A gift from her father, it held immense sentimental value. The book, once a cherished treasure, had become a source of contention between Luz and her mother. Whispering almost hesitantly, Luz expressed her confusion and heartache, feeling a lump forming in her throat.
"Papa gave me this book... Why does she not want me to read it anymore?" Her voice quivered with a mix of sadness and frustration, tears threatening to spill from her eyes. The thought of her mother withholding something so precious to her felt like a betrayal. She felt an ache in her chest. It stabbed through her, just beside her heart like it always did when she struggled with her reality.
A single tear escaped, tracing a path down her cheek, as Luz grappled with the realization that her initial resentment towards her mother was misplaced. She knew deep down that her mother's intentions were rooted in love and concern. Her mother was simply trying to guide her to ensure she could have a more normal life, so that she could fit into society's box of normalcy. But she was unaware of the toll it took on Luz's spirit.
A bittersweet smile danced upon Luz's lips as she reminisced about the adventures she and her parents had shared, their bond forged in the embrace of nature's wonders. The hikes, the discoveries, and the laughter that once filled their lives now seemed distant, fading echoes of a past that could never be brought back.
"After papa died, we stopped going on those hikes... It must have been too much for her. I understand, I miss him too," she murmured softly, her voice laced with a sense of longing and acceptance. Though the absence of those cherished moments pained her, Luz recognized her mother's need for healing. To adapt to him being gone. She just wished that it didn't require her mother to push away everything that they used to do together as a family.
A surge of determination coursed through her veins as Luz's gaze shifted back to the camera, the lens capturing her unwavering resolve. The props strewn across her room, carefully collected from various nooks and crannies, now took on a new significance. A snake, a cloak, a crown, and a crystal ball, each symbolizing a facet of the magical tale she sought to weave for her upcoming book report.
With new determination, Luz picked up the snake and cradled her father's book in her hands, their weight serving as a reminder of her unwavering spirit. Meeting the camera's gaze, she spoke with newfound conviction, her voice resonating with a glimmer of hope and a strong desire to also be herself.
She could have both her fantasies and her mother's need for her to conform, right? She could make her mother proud of her without giving up everything that made her, her, right?
"It's been really tough for mom since the funeral. She's trying her best, but I still want to be me... which is why I'm going to wow my teacher's face off with this book report!"
Luz felt an overwhelming sense of pride in her book report. She had poured her heart and soul into it, dedicating countless hours to its completion. She had immersed herself in the book, reading it multiple times and meticulously jotting down notes. The report consisted of a comprehensive summary and a thought-provoking analysis. On top of that, she had prepared a captivating presentation and even planned a demonstration to engage her classmates. She had practiced relentlessly, ensuring that every word and every gesture was perfect. Finally, the day had come, and she was ready to showcase her hard work.
A confident smile adorned Luz's face as she whispered to herself, "Mom, I promise you won't have to worry about me ever again!"
Placing her belongings neatly on her desk, Luz switched off the laptop. She stole a quick glance at her reflection in the mirror, filled with hope that tomorrow would be the day she would finally make her mother proud.
***
"The end of what?" Luz's mother asked, her concern evident in her voice as she observed her daughter.
Luz had been summoned to the principal's office shortly after she began her book report. Her mother had to abruptly leave her double shift at work to come and for a meeting in the principal's office. Again.
When she entered the school, she discovered it to be a bit of a chaotic scene. She already knew who was behind the cause of it despite not being told as to why she had to come in. Luz sat in the principal's office, holding a book and a snake, appearing simultaneously thrilled and troubled.
"The end of my book report!" Luz exclaimed with unwavering optimism, her eyes darting between her principal and her mother. "I think I absolutely nailed it!"
She proudly displayed her snake, wand, and book, unaware of the chaos unfolding just outside of the door.
"The reason you're in here is precisely because of your book report," the principal stated, pinching the bridge of his nose in exasperation.
He gestured towards the door just as a group of children ran by, shrieking in fear. One girl had a snake latched onto her head, causing her to panic. Another boy had a firework inadvertently stuck to his shirt, emitting sparks and smoke. The mayhem caused by Luz was evident, with scratches and bruises adorning the other students.
"Oh! So that's where the extra snakes went," Luz said with an innocent smile.
Earlier that morning, Luz had ventured to the pet store to borrow a few additional snakes, intending to make her book report more interactive. Her aim was to illustrate how Azura had triumphed over the gilder snake. While she believed it would be impressive and captivating, it had instead ended in pure chaos. Her snakes had told her that they were hungry. She didn't mean for them to escape.
"And what were you planning to do with these?" Camila asked, her voice tinged with concern as she pulled out fireworks from her daughter's bag, unsure if they were even legal.
"That was for the grand finale of the act three closure..." Luz's expression turned downcast.
She had purchased fireworks from a dubious vendor at the flea market, intending to use them as special effects for her book report. Her intention was to demonstrate how Azura had employed her magical abilities to create a breathtaking explosion. However, before she could even ignite the large one, she was ushered into the principal's office.
"Mija," her mother sighed, kneeling down to Luz's level. Gently, she placed a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "I love your creativity, but it has gone too far. Do you recall why you were summoned to the principal's office the last three times?"
Luz slumped forward, overwhelmed by a sudden wave of guilt. The memories flooded back vividly.
The first time had been when she attempted to concoct a potion using various ingredients, but instead, she inadvertently created a stink bomb that permeated the entire school.
The second time had been when she tried to cast a spell from her books, resulting in a chaotic mess of chalk and candles that triggered the fire alarm.
The third time had occurred during the school play, where Luz was cast as Juliet. In a misguided attempt to add a dramatic touch, she used fake organs, scaring her fellow students and disrupting the entire production. She had tried to defend herself, claiming it was a trick her father had taught her. That resulted in a student making fun of her father, stating that it was good that he was dead. That student left school with a black eye and a broken nose.
Luz had promised herself that her mother would no longer have to worry about her. However, true to her nature, she had once again managed to screw up.
The girls who bullied her were correct. She was nothing more than a screw-up...
It was all she ever seemed to be good at.
"I love that you express yourself," Her mother stood up and dug through her purse. "But if you can't learn to separate fiction from reality, then maybe you'll have to spend the summer here."
She handed Luz a pamphlet that made her heart sink. It was for a reality-check summer camp.
The camp was designed for kids like Luz, aiming to teach them how to conform and fit in with society. It was a place where they were expected to abandon their fantasies and focus solely on their realities. It was a camp where they were supposed to change who they truly were.
Luz took the pamphlet, feeling a wave of despair wash over her. She struggled to hold back the tears that threatened to escape.
Her mother genuinely believed that she needed to be transformed. Every attempt to appear "normal" caused a twinge of pain in her chest near her heart. How could she make her mother understand that this was not her true self? That her fantasies brought her more joy and excitement than reality ever could? How could she explain that, no matter how hard she tried, she never felt like she truly belonged in this world? This reality just didn't feel right to her.
"Don't worry, mama," Luz promised, blinking away the tears. "I promise, no more 'weirdness'." She forced a smile.
She smiled even though it pained her. She smiled even though it felt fake. She smiled even though it shattered her heart.
It was at that moment that her pet snake suddenly leaped out of her hands and lunged at the principal.
Luz chuckled nervously, desperately attempting to lighten the tense situation. "That doesn't count, right?"
***
Luz sighed, her gaze downcast at the book in her hands as she stood outside her house. This book had been a source of immense joy for her after her father's passing. It was the very book he had given her before he died - the book that ignited her imagination further and allowed her to create her own world where she could be understood and accepted.
Yet, it was also the cause of her current pain and predicament.
Luz gasped, her chest tightening at the mere thought of her fantasy within those pages. She clutched her heart as the pain intensified, surpassing anything she had felt before. It was as if her heart ached at the prospect of being forced to abandon her realms of magic. It was as if her heart knew that something was amiss, that something essential was missing.
"Mija?" Her mother's worried voice broke through her thoughts.
"Huh?"
Luz turned to face her mother, momentarily forgetting her pain.
She noticed the concern etched on her mother's face, and a pang of guilt washed over her.
"Oh, Mija. Don't worry, the summer camp is only for three months. You'll be so occupied with lessons on budgeting and listening to public radio. It'll go by so fast," her mother reassured her.
"But Mama!" Luz interjected. "I don't like any of that stuff! I love my stories and being thrown into a world of fantasy! It feels right to me..." Luz tried to explain.
She attempted to convey to her mother the same emotions and experiences she had while immersed in those tales. She yearned for her mother to understand the significance those stories held for her, how they helped her cope with her father's loss. They provided her with hope and happiness.
However, she knew that words alone wouldn't convince her mother. Nothing would.
"Luz, your fantasy world is holding you back. You spend too much time down by that old cabin," her mother reasoned.
Luz often found herself drawn to the old cabin in the woods. She couldn't quite explain why, but it felt like a magnetic pull, a connection to her true self. It served as her refuge, where she didn't have to fret about bullies, grades, or societal expectations. There, she didn't have to pretend, hide, or attempt to conform.
She could simply be herself.
She had tried explaining this to her mother, only to have it brushed off as dangerous and unhealthy. Her mother insisted that Luz needed to socialize more and make friends.
That was why Luz had made an effort to stop visiting the cabin.
"But Mama, I don't belong... I mean, I..." Luz groaned in frustration. How could she articulate her feelings?
How could she express that she felt like an outsider in this world? That she didn't fit in anywhere? That she believed there was something more out there waiting for her?
How could she convey that magic made her feel alive? That it brought her immense joy? That it made her feel truly herself?
Camila placed a warm, reassuring hand on her daughter's shoulder, her touch filled with love and concern. The worry in her voice was palpable as she gently asked, "Mija, do you have any friends? Real ones? Not imaginary or drawn or reptilian?"
Luz's gaze shifted downward, focusing on the pages of her book. In that moment, she couldn't help but wonder if her mother was right. She knew that her fantasies had prevented her from fitting in, leaving her without any true friends. It had always been a struggle for her to connect with others. They couldn't comprehend her perspective, and she struggled to understand them as well. It often felt as though they spoke a different language, lived in a different world, and cared about different things.
The painful memories flooded her mind, reminding her of the times when people had rejected her. They were grossed out or weirded out by her behavior, calling her hurtful names like freak, loser, and screw-up. They laughed at her, ignored her, and even bullied her. Luz had felt like an outsider, someone who didn't belong. This sense of isolation extended even to her own mother, as if she couldn't fully grasp who Luz truly was... it was why she liked the old cabin. It didn't hurt while she was there.
Feeling the weight of her daughter's emotions, Camila tenderly placed a hand on Luz's chin, guiding her to meet her eyes. There was a soft smile on her mother's face, filled with hope and encouragement. "Summer camp will be a chance to make some friends. But you have to try," she said, her voice gentle but firm.
Luz's eyes flickered back down to her book, which she clutched tightly in her hands. With a heavy heart and a twinge of pain in her chest, she made her way to a nearby garbage can, standing ready for collection at the side of the road. Her mother's gaze followed her every move, a mix of concern and understanding.
"Puedes hacer eso por mi? (Can you do this for me?)" Camila's eyes searched Luz's face, seeking permission.
"Si, mamá..." Luz whispered, her voice tinged with sadness.
She tossed her book into the trash can with a resounding thud. She couldn't bear to look at it, lest she be reminded of her father and her fantasy. It symbolized her inability to connect with others and the pain she had endured.
Just as the silence settled between them, Camila's phone buzzed in her pocket, breaking the stillness. She glanced at the screen and frowned, a hint of resignation in her voice. "I have to go to work."
Luz rolled her eyes, her frustration evident. Of course her mother had to go to work. She always did. It was why Luz stopped going with her. Even when Luz went to the clinic with her mother, she would often be ignored. Or, when her mother did find free time, she would question Luz's inability to connect with friends. So, Luz figured, why bother?
Camila walked over to Luz, planting a gentle kiss on her forehead. But instead of feeling comforted, Luz flinched and looked away, a mix of anger and sadness surging through her. The words that followed seemed distant to her, as if they were spoken to someone else. "Your bus is coming soon. Text me when you get there. No te preocupes, todo va a salir bien (Don't worry, everything will be fine)." Her mother's soothing tone tried to offer solace, reassuring her that everything would turn out fine.
But Luz couldn't help but feel the bitterness rise within her. It was easy for her mother to say those words. She had never experienced the pain of not belonging, the constant feeling of being an outsider.
"Bye mom..." Luz muttered, the words tinged with regret as soon as they left her lips.
As her mother walked away, Luz suddenly realized she had just thrown away the only connection she had to her father. In a rush of desperation, she sprinted towards the trash can, hoping to retrieve her book.
But it was gone.
Shock washed over her as she gasped in disbelief. Instead of finding her book, she discovered it perched on top of a trash bag, held by a small, irresistibly cute owl. The owl cocked its head to the side, emitting a small hoot before taking flight, carrying both the trash bag and Luz's most prized possession.
"Hey, get back here!" Luz's voice echoed through the forest as she chased after the owl. Determined not to lose her treasured book, she followed the tiny creature as it darted through the trees, leading her towards an old, familiar cabin.
"Hey! Stop hopping adorably away, you little owl!" Luz called out, her tone a mix of frustration and amusement. The owl landed in front of the cabin and hopped through the doorway, beckoning her to follow.
Without a second thought, Luz rushed through the doorway, her determination overshadowing any hesitation. She had been inside that cabin countless times before, what was one more?
But this time was different.
As she stepped through the door, a gasp escaped her lips, and her eyes widened in astonishment. Instead of the familiar sight of cobwebs, torn-up floorboards, and rusty nails, she found herself standing inside a tent adorned with an array of strange and wonderful objects. Jars filled with glowing liquids lined the shelves, masks representing various animals adorned the walls, and books covered in enigmatic symbols were scattered across the tables.
"Whoa... I thought I had a lot of weird stuff," Luz murmured to herself, her voice filled with awe. She crouched down and picked up one of the peculiar objects—a doll head attached to a coat hanger. Its intricate craftsmanship and inexplicable allure fascinated her. "But this, this is... actually impressive," she whispered, admiring the intricate details before carefully setting it back down.
"There you are!"
Startled by a voice calling out, Luz quickly sought cover behind a large wooden box, fearing she had been discovered trespassing. However, her anxiety soon dissipated as she realized the voice was not directed at her, but rather at the mischievous owl that had stolen her book. Peeking out from her hiding spot, she glimpsed a woman with long, thick gray hair and a dark red dress, complete with a bandana tied around her head.
As the woman's attention remained focused on the owl, Luz seized the opportunity to make her way towards the tent's exit. Pushing aside the curtains, she was relieved to see the owl land on a wooden pole, seemingly unharmed. However, her relief quickly turned to horror as the woman's hand reached out and twisted the owl onto the pole, rendering it lifeless and resembling an eerie decoration.
Luz watched from the corner of her eye as the woman rummaged through a trash bag, dismissing various objects as mere trash.
"Trash, trash, trash," The woman stated as she rummaged through the trash bag.
To Luz's surprise, the discarded items appeared to be valuable and precious. Jewels, watches, phones—each dismissed with indifference.
Confusion twisted Luz's curiosity as the woman pulled out a pair of glasses with slinky eyeballs attached to them. The plastic eyeballs bounced up and down as she held them, a twisted grin spreading across her face. "Ah, now these will make me rich!" she declared triumphantly, slipping the peculiar glasses onto her face.
Luz's heart skipped a beat as she realized the woman's next target. She pulled out Luz's book. "And this? It'll make good kindling." Luz watched as the woman held her book overtop of a burning candle, singeing one of the sides. Panic surged within Luz, and without a second thought, she darted out of the tent, her sole focus on retrieving her beloved possession.
"Sorry, that's mine!" Luz exclaimed, her voice laced with desperation, as she snatched her book from the woman's hand. Clutching it tightly to her chest, she raced back towards the door through which she had entered.
But as she approached the door, her eyes widened in horror as it slammed shut in front of her, vanishing completely before her very eyes. Trapped inside with the woman, Luz's fear intensified as she noticed the knife clutched tightly in the woman's hand.
A scream tore through Luz's throat, reverberating through the air, as she struggled to comprehend the dire situation. She knew she had to escape, to survive. With trembling hands, she lifted the edge of the tent and burst through the opening, only to come face to face with a nightmarish creature—a red, eyeless being with a mouth full of razor-sharp teeth. It resembled a dog in size, but its twisted form sent shivers down her spine.
Driven by pure instinct, Luz sprinted away from the creature, her heart pounding in her chest. But her escape was interrupted when she collided with another sight—a colossal worm, its slimy green body slithering across the ground. The worm's small black eyes met hers, and in that moment, Luz questioned her very existence.
Where was she? How had she ended up in this surreal nightmare? With a myriad of questions swirling in her mind, Luz knew she had to find answers and escape this twisted realm before it consumed her entirely.
Luz turned around, feeling a sudden presence behind her. She expected to see some kind of humanoid creature, but instead, she was met with a gust of wind, causing her hair to whip around her face. Confused, she scanned the area, searching for the source of the disturbance.
Just as she was about to dismiss it as her imagination, she noticed movement out of the corner of her eye. A small figure darted past her, leaving a trail of pink hair in its wake. Luz's eyes widened as she turned to face the creature.
The tiny being flew before her, barely being bigger than her hand. Its appearance was whimsical, with delicate wings fluttering behind its back. But what caught Luz's attention was the mischievous glint in its eyes as it gave her an innocent smile.
"Oh, you're a fairy!" Luz exclaimed, surprise evident in her voice. She couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement at the magical encounter. "Are you here to tell me that this is all a magical dream?"
The fairy's smile widened, revealing a row of teeth that were stained and crooked. Luz recoiled slightly, unsure of what to make of this peculiar fairy. Suddenly, the creature's innocent demeanor changed, and it shrieked, lunging towards Luz, "give me your skin!"
Reacting quickly, Luz swatted the fairy away, sending it tumbling through the air. As she caught her breath, she felt a strong grip on her arm, pulling her away from the chaotic scene.
Luz's eyes widened as she recognized the woman who had previously tried to burn her book. The woman's long, thick gray hair flowed behind her as she smirked wickedly.
Fear gripped Luz as she cowered, shielding her face with trembling hands. "If you're going to eat my skin, please just do it now!" she pleaded, her voice laced with desperation. She hoped that waking up from this nightmare would be her salvation.
To Luz's surprise, the woman's voice held an air of amusement rather than malice. "Eat you?" she asked, genuine surprise evident in her tone.
Slowly, Luz lowered her hands, cautiously meeting the woman's gaze. Confusion clouded her features as she tried to make sense of the situation.
"Why would I eat a potential customer?" the woman stated matter-of-factly, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. She turned away, sauntering back to her peculiar stall.
Luz's brows furrowed in bewilderment as she followed the woman with her gaze. "Huh?" she muttered, completely baffled by the woman's response.
Intrigued by Luz's confusion, the woman turned back towards her, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Can I interest you in a human foot filled with holes?" she offered, holding up a croc sandal.
Luz gave the woman a bizarre look, her confusion deepening. The woman seemed to revel in the peculiarity of her offerings.
"How about a bar of human candy?" the woman continued eagerly, revealing a bar of men's deodorant. Its blue colour and strong scent were unmistakable.
"Oh! How about a box that reflects only sadness?" The woman offered, shoving the box in Luz's face.
Dismissing the absurdity of the situation, her lips curling into a bemused smile. "That's not all it can do. Here, let me show you," she said, her voice filled with a newfound confidence.
Curiosity sparked in the woman's eyes as she handed Luz the box. The woman seemed genuinely intrigued by Luz's insistence.
Luz rummaged through a nearby bowl labeled 'human candy,' her fingers grazing a pair of shiny, new batteries. She swiftly inserted them into the TV's battery compartment.
With a press of a button, the TV flickered to life, displaying an old-style workout video. A man with a mustache and a woman with big hair appeared on the screen, energetically performing aerobics routines.
The creatures that had gathered around the woman's stall were immediately captivated by the video, their eyes fixated on the screen.
"I'll pay 40 snails!" a blue creature with horns and a tail exclaimed, unable to tear its gaze away.
"I'll pay 100!" a yellow creature with feathers and a beak chimed in, eagerly joining the bidding.
"I'll pay 200 if I can eat the tiny person inside!" another creature shouted, its voice filled with both fascination and hunger.
Nervous laughter escaped Luz's lips as she observed the bizarre scene unfolding before her. What kind of world had she stumbled upon? She couldn't help but wonder if she was dreaming or hallucinating.
The woman's smirk grew into a proud smile as she watched the creatures' reactions. "That was pretty clever, kid. For a human at least," she commented, her voice tinged with admiration.
Luz tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. "That's a strange thing for another human to say," she remarked, studying the woman intently.
Comparing the woman to others around her, she seemed to be more normal-looking. She had two eyes, a nose, and a mouth. At first glance, she appeared to be human. However, there was an air of mystery about her that piqued Luz's curiosity.
"Oh, dear child. I'm not like you," the woman said with a mischievous smile, her voice tinged with a hint of magic. With a swift motion, she reached up to her bandana and pulled it off, revealing her very pointy ears. "I'm Eda the Owl Lady!" she proclaimed proudly, standing on top of her stall table. "The most powerful witch on the Boiling Isles!"
Luz's eyes widened in disbelief. "A witch?!" She never thought she would encounter real magic! Luz felt giddy. The woman before her resembled the witch who had guided Azura on her legendary adventures. Gray hair cascaded down her shoulders, and her pointy ears matched the tales.
"I'm respected, feared, and-" Eda's words were cut short by a loud, jarring interruption.
"Busted!" A man wearing a mysterious plague mask emerged from the crowd, wielding a hammer. In one swift, destructive motion, he smashed the nearby TV screen, causing sparks to fly and the crackling glass to shatter.
The onlookers scattered in fear, recognizing the masked figure as a member of the Emperor's Coven – the most powerful and ruthless group of witches on the Boiling Isles. Their presence alone was enough to send chills down anyone's spine.
"Eda the Owl Lady," the masked man spoke with an authoritative voice as he approached her stall. "You're coming with me."
Eda looked up from her pile of junk, her eyes gleaming with defiance. With a feigned smile, she retorted, "What? I didn't break any stupid laws... this time."
"And you're under arrest as well, for fraternizing with a criminal!" he declared, reaching out to grab Luz by her hoodie.
"What?! That's not fair!" Luz protested, her voice filled with determination. She squirmed and wriggled, attempting to free herself from his iron grip, but his strength was overwhelming.
Fear coursed through her veins as she realized the gravity of the situation. She had never been in trouble with the law before. In a split second decision and a fluttery feeling in her chest, Luz spun around and mustered all her strength, delivering a powerful kick to the masked man's shin. The impact caused him to release his grip, and Luz dropped to the ground.
"Argh, you stupid little--!" he growled, his anger evident.
"Duck!" Eda's warning came just in time.
Luz swiftly obeyed, instinctively ducking as Eda swung her staff with a resounding whoosh. The impact struck the masked man, sending him sprawling to the ground, his helmet rolling away from the impact.
Seizing the opportunity, Eda slammed her staff forcefully onto the ground. In a miraculous display of magic, her once bustling stall collapsed into a small bag, easily slung over her shoulder. "Whoops, can't forget about this," she said nonchalantly, pressing a peculiarly shaped key around her neck.
As if responding to her command, the strange door that Luz had entered through folded in on itself, transforming into a compact briefcase. Eda swiftly grabbed it and attached it to her staff with practiced ease. "Follow me, human!" she winked at Luz, her eyes gleaming with adventure.
Luz's heart raced as she glanced back, her breath catching in her throat. The figure she had been running from was slowly rising to his feet, his eyes burning with a mix of anger and hatred. Panic surged through her veins, and she knew she had to reach Eda, her only hope of escaping this treacherous situation and finding her way back home without facing arrest.
Together, they sprinted through the narrow streets of the quaint town, skillfully maneuvering past bustling carts and startled pedestrians. The urgency of their escape filled the air, propelling them forward with every step.
But their pursuer wasn't willing to give up so easily. In a matter of moments, reinforcements arrived, donned in sturdy armor and brandishing weapons. Their fierce shouts echoed through the air as they closed in on the fleeing duo.
"Hold on!" Eda's voice cut through the chaos, her staff raised high above her head. With a swift motion, she grabbed Luz's arm and effortlessly hoisted her into the air. A gust of wind enveloped them as they soared above the ground, leaving the pursuing guards behind.
Luz clung to the staff, her heart pounding in her chest as fear coursed through her veins. Her eyes squeezed shut, tears streaming down her face. Doubt and regret mingled with her terror, her mind echoing her mother's warnings about spending too much time lost in her own fantasies. This was the consequence of blurring the lines between reality and imagination, and now she was paying the price.
But Eda's voice, surprisingly cheerful, pierced through her panic. "Easy, human. You can open your eyes now."
Timidly, Luz pried her eyes open, gasping at the breathtaking sight before her. Everywhere she looked, fantastical creatures soared through the skies, a griffin flying gracefully by her side. Suddenly, the griffin let out a puff of spider breath, confirming the reality of this extraordinary world. Or maybe she had finally slipped further into her magical fantasies. Was this what her mother was worried about? Because Luz was surely okay with it!
However, her elation quickly dissipated as she lost her balance on the slender staff, her grip faltering. Panic surged through her once again as she found herself dangling precariously in mid-air, one hand desperately clinging to the staff for dear life.
Realization hit her like a punch to the gut. This was no trick, no mere illusion. She was truly suspended in the air, her life hanging by a thread. The consequences of her fantasies had materialized in the most terrifying way possible. And it was most definitely real!
Eda's voice broke through her terror, tinged with annoyance. "Jeez, do all humans frighten this easily?"
Eda grasped an arm around Luz's wrist and heaved her back onto the staff. This time, the witch grabbed her arm firmly, refusing to let go.
"Thanks," Luz muttered, her voice shaky. "I'm not used to this."
"Clearly," Eda replied dryly.
The tense flight continued until Eda skillfully guided the flying staff back to the safety of the ground, landing amidst the sheltering embrace of the dense forest. Luz's legs wobbled beneath her as she stepped off the staff, her body betraying her with its weakness.
"Okay... this is definitely not the PG fantasy world I always dreamed about," Luz confessed, her voice trembling.
Looking up at Eda, she saw a bemused expression on the older woman's face. Eda chuckled, her laughter filled with understanding. "Nope, I guess it wouldn't be."
With a gesture, Eda silently beckoned Luz to follow. Determination fueled her shaky steps as Luz ran after Eda, refusing to be left behind in this bewildering, yet undeniably enchanting world.
Within mere moments, they emerged from the dense tree line and were greeted by the sight of a decent-sized house. Luz's eyes widened with wonder and amazement as she gazed up at the structure before her.
The house stood out from anything Luz had ever seen before. It was a unique blend of wood and stone, with intricate shapes and symbols intricately carved into its exterior. Its architecture seemed to defy categorization, resembling a harmonious fusion of a cozy cottage and a majestic castle.
"Wow..." Luz murmured breathlessly, struggling to find words to capture the essence of her awe.
As they approached the entrance, Luz's attention was momentarily diverted by Eda's conversation with a peculiar creature perched in the doorway. Her eyes narrowed in curiosity as she took in the sight of the bird-like being.
"What's that?" Luz inquired, her voice filled with genuine intrigue.
Eda chuckled. "That's Hooty," she explained. "He's the house's guardian, although he tends to be more of a nuisance than anything else."
To Luz's astonishment, the seemingly stationary creature blinked and began to maneuver itself out of the doorway, revealing its elongated body. She couldn't help but wonder where the rest of its body resided when it was inside the door.
"Not without the password," Hooty sang in a sing-song voice, blocking their path.
A mixture of disgust and fascination crossed Luz's face as Hooty continued to extend its body, wrapping itself around her form. It invaded her personal space, preventing her from taking another step forward, while its face squished against hers.
"Oh, a new friend! I can't wait to get to know you!" Hooty exclaimed in an overly excited tone. "We can talk together for hours and hours and hours and--"
"Enough of that, Hooty. We need to get inside," Eda interjected, delivering a firm whack to the creature's head.
Hooty winced and reluctantly backed away from Luz. "Okay, ow! Jeez! You could have just said so! Hoot!" he whined, retreating back into the doorway.
With his mouth agape, Hooty allowed them passage into the house, his body retracting as they stepped inside.
Luz couldn't help but raise an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued further by the strange creature's behavior. She turned to glance back at the entrance, only to find it appearing as an entirely normal door, as if they hadn't just passed through the mouth of an enigmatic being.
The questions swirled within Luz's mind, leaving her even more bewildered. Where did Hooty's body go?
"Welcome to... The Owl House!" Eda proclaimed with a touch of dramatic flair, drawing Luz's attention back to the vibrant living area.
As if responding to Eda's words, the room suddenly came to life. Soft illumination cascaded along the walls, tracing intricate patterns and crawling up the posters that adorned them. The living area of the Owl House exuded a cozy chaos, with books, scrolls, potions, and artifacts scattered haphazardly. Some of the objects glowed or moved of their own accord, adding an air of enchantment to the space. Paintings, tapestries, and maps adorned the walls, each depicting scenes of magic and thrilling adventures. Luz's eyes were drawn to a prominently displayed giant wanted poster, resembling the one held by the guard they had encountered earlier.
In the center of the room, a lone burgundy couch commanded attention, positioned amidst the scattered items. A delicate coffee table, adorned with a crystal ball, stood proudly before the couch.
Stepping further into the living area, Luz felt as if she had been transported into a fantastical fairy tale. Her fingers itched to explore every nook and cranny, to touch each object and uncover its secrets. A sense of wonder and awe washed over her, igniting her imagination and filling her heart with a thirst for adventure.
"This is incredible!" Luz exclaimed, her eyes widening in awe as she surveyed the room filled with an eclectic collection of rare and intriguing objects. "How do you have all this stuff?"
Eda, a mischievous grin playing on her lips, leaned against a shelf adorned with peculiar trinkets. "I'm a collector of sorts," she confessed, her voice tinged with excitement. "I have a knack for finding unique and extraordinary items from all corners of the world. Some have practical uses, some are dangerous, and others are simply for the thrill of it. It's a never-ending treasure hunt, and you never know what you might stumble upon."
Luz's curiosity piqued, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of adventure coursing through her veins. "But aren't some of these things... unpredictable?" she asked cautiously, her gaze shifting to a peculiar contraption emitting faint sparks. It hissed at her as she looked at it, causing her recoil away.
Eda winked, a playful glint in her eyes. "Oh, absolutely. Some of these artifacts have a mind of their own," she warned, her voice laced with a hint of mystery.
Luz's wonderment grew, and she circled the room with wide-eyed fascination. "Wow, this is amazing," she breathed, her voice filled with childlike wonder.
Eda chuckled, her laughter echoing through the room. "You're just scratching the surface, kid," she teased, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. "It also makes a great place to hide from the law." She winked at Luz, the secret shared between them.
Suddenly, a dark shadow slithered along the walls, accompanied by deep resonating footsteps that reverberated through the room.
Luz looked started as Eda spoke up, "and I also have a roommate."
A booming voice interrupted their conversation, "Who dares to disturb the--"
Before the voice could finish its sentence, it morphed into a younger, more melodious tone. "--the King of Demons?!"
In the place of a fearsome creature, a small dog-like being stood, its fur as black as night, and its head resembling a skull adorned with two horns, one of which was cracked in half. He was wrapped in a ducky towel with a small rubber duck in its hand.
Luz's eyes widened with delight as she rushed towards the diminutive creature. "Ay, que lindo!" she squealed, scooping it up in her arms and holding it close to her chest. "Oh my gosh, Eda! He is so cute!"
The creature wriggled free from Luz's grasp, scurrying over to Eda and seeking refuge behind her leg. "Eda! Who is this?! I demand you kill her!" it exclaimed, its tone a mix of annoyance and fear.
Eda chuckled, her amusement evident. She gently restrained Luz, guiding her away from the creature and towards a nearby couch. "Alright, human," she said calmly, her voice laced with authority. "Take a breath and have a seat."
Luz complied, settling down on the couch, she drummed her fingers against her leg, unable to stay completely still. However, her eyes fixated on Eda as she awaited an explanation.
Eda raised an eyebrow, but didn't question the girl's inability to sit still.
She conjured a mystical circle in the air with her staff, revealing an image of a crown adorned with dazzling jewels and menacing spikes. She began to unravel the tale of King, a once-powerful being who commanded legions of demons until a rival stole his crown of power.
"And that's what turned me into this," the creature, now known as King, interjected bitterly, gesturing towards his diminutive form.
Luz's heart melted with sympathy, and she reached out to pet King, only to have him snap at her hand. "But you're so adorable!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine affection.
"I'm not adorable!" King huffed, stamping his foot in frustration.
Luz couldn't help but giggle at his antics. "Aw, he stamped his little foot!" she cooed, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
Meanwhile, Eda observed the exchange with a growing smile, a glimmer of mischief in her eyes. "The crown is hidden behind a powerful magical barrier that only a human can breach," she explained, her voice tinged with excitement. "A human like you!"
Luz's excitement reached a new peak, her eyes shining with a sense of adventure. "Wait, you're saying this is like a magical quest? And you need my help?" she exclaimed, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "Count me in! I've always been captivated by fantasy and adventure stories in my books. To be a part of something like this is a dream come true!"
With renewed determination, Luz scooped King into her arms once more, hugging him tightly. "Don't worry, little guy! I'm going to help you get your crown back."
King looked up at Luz, his eyes filled with uncertainty. He squirmed out of her grip, his mind racing with questions. "Wait, just like that? I mean, I thought we would have had to blackmail you or risk your life with immortal peril."
Luz shrugged nonchalantly, her vibrant eyes gleaming with a sense of adventure. Her voice carried a hint of excitement. "I've always been captivated by fantasy and adventure stories in my books. I've often daydreamed about stumbling upon a world like this one. And even though I'm not entirely sure if this isn't all just some incredible dream that I'll awaken from any moment now, I genuinely want to help!"
Eda, the seasoned adventurer, looked just as surprised as King. "Well, it seems luck is on our side today! Let's waste no time and embark on our perilous quest."
With determination etched on her face, Eda turned towards Luz, curiosity gleaming in her eyes. "By the way, what was your name again?"
Luz's smile widened, radiating warmth. "I didn't mention it earlier," she replied cheerfully. "My name is Luz!"
Eda's eyes widened in shock, her voice laced with disbelief. "I'm sorry, come again?"