Tales of the Flower Kingdom (Part 1)

Hi! My name is Clara Elrod. I’m a biology scientist living in the city of Luminara. It’s December 24th, and I’m really excited for Christmas tomorrow. But tonight, I can’t seem to fall asleep. I keep hearing strange voices coming from my backyard. I try to ignore them, hoping that watching TV and drinking a warm cup of milk will help me sleep. But an hour later, the voices are still there, and they’re getting louder.

I decide to go outside. The December air is chilly, and the backyard is covered in a light layer of snow that glitters in the moonlight. I shine my flashlight toward the pond, where cornflowers grow nearby, their petals bright and beautiful. Just as I get close, the flashlight flickers and goes out, leaving me in the dark. Suddenly, a soft glow starts coming from the pond, and bright figures appear, looking like they’re made of light.

One figure steps forward, her presence calm but tense. Her voice is gentle yet urgent. “Dear Clara Elrod, princess of the cornflower,” she says, “I am the Rose Queen, and these are the Flower Princesses. Your world is in great danger. Snow people have invaded your city, bringing endless winter and causing trouble. We need your help.”

I’m confused and unsure of what’s happening. But since I’ve always loved books and fantasy, a part of me wonders if this could actually be real. I’ve read about magical worlds and fantastical creatures, and now it seems like one of those stories is happening to me.

The Rose Queen continues to speak, and I begin to process what she’s saying. “You have a special connection to the magic of the cornflower,” she explains. “This pendant has powers meant just for you. Wear it and read the words on this note. It will take you to the Flower Realm, where more princesses like you live.”

I look at the Cornflower pendant she hands me. It’s delicate and glowing softly, and I can’t help but feel a sense of wonder. I’ve always liked cornflowers for their wild and free spirit. I put the pendant around my neck and read the note she gave me. The words glow softly in the moonlight.

“Take me to the Flower Kingdom,”

As soon as I say the words, a bright light surrounds me, and I feel like I’m being gently lifted into the air.