Chapter 9: The Birthday Girl and the White Owl

Lyla didn't expect magic before breakfast.

But as soon as she stepped out of her room that morning, the world felt different — lighter, warmer... as if something beautiful was waiting to happen.

At the end of the corridor, stood Nova — her eyes glowing, holding a tiny bunch of freshly picked flowers.

"Happy birthday, Lyla!" Nova beamed, her voice brighter than the morning sun.

Lyla blinked, caught off guard. "You remembered…"

Her smile widened. "Thank you, Nova."

Just then, Livra peeked from behind a corner with a mischievous grin. "Hey, birthday girl!" she called, her voice full of energy. "Happy birthday!"

"Thanks, Livra," Lyla replied, cheeks glowing pink.

During breakfast, the warm clatter of cutlery and chatter filled the Great Hall. Lyla quietly took her seat at the Solburn table, trying to stay low-key.

But secrets don't stay secrets at Emberfell Academy.

Livra leaned over and whispered to Ilisha, "It's Lyla's birthday today."

Within seconds, Ilisha turned with a sparkle. "Happy birthday, Lyla!"

Soon, like wildfire, it spread.

Adien. Mona. Rive. Keal. Aurelia. Celestia.

One by one, voices lifted in celebration:

 "Happy birthday!"

"You're glowing today, Lyla!"

"Make a wish — and make it big!"

Lyla looked around, stunned. She hadn't expected anyone — anyone — to remember. But here they were, showering her with love like sunlight breaking through clouds.

Suddenly, a gust of wind swept through the Great Hall.

Heads tilted up. Forks paused mid-air.

A white owl, radiant and otherworldly, soared through the high windows. It circled once, its wings shimmering in morning light, then glided downward with precision.

With a soft flutter, it landed right in front of Lyla, at the Solburn table.

Three letters, sealed with wax of gold, midnight blue, and rose red, dropped gently on the tablecloth.

The owl gave a final blink, then disappeared into the sky.

Lyla stared — heart racing — and instantly recognized the handwriting.

One from her mother.

One from Uncle Leo and Aunt Zara (Nova's parents).

And one from her Aunt — her father's sister.

She picked up the golden-sealed envelope first — her mother's.

 Letter from Mom:

 Dear My Brightest Star,

Happy birthday, my Lyla.

I remember the first time I held you — your tiny hands wrapped around my finger, your eyes already shining with magic.

You've grown so much, and still, every year, I see that same spark in your eyes.

Stay kind. Stay brave. And remember — no matter how big the world gets, you'll always be my little girl.

I've sent a charm bracelet through Nova. Wear it always. It'll protect you.

With love overflowing,

Mom

 Letter from Uncle & Aunty (Nova's parents):

 To our Sparkling Firefly,

Happy birthday, sweetheart!

You've lit up this family from the day you came into it.

Nova tells us everything — you two make a great team. Protect each other.

Sending cake, kisses, and confetti in spirit!

Uncle Leo & Aunty Zara

Letter from Aunt her Dad's Sister :

 To My Warrior Princess,

Don't let anyone dim your light — not even your fears.

You're destined for greatness. You carry strength in your heart that no one else can claim.

The stars whisper about you, Lyla. Listen carefully.

Be fierce. Be gentle. Be you.

Love,

Aunt

Lyla sat frozen, the letters trembling slightly in her hands.

She read them again. And again.

Each word felt like a hug — like pieces of home stitched into paper.

She reached into her pocket and felt the small charm bracelet Nova had slipped into her hand. Its tiny stones shimmered softly, pulsing with quiet protection.

The stars whisper about you, Lyla.

She looked up at the sky visible through the Great Hall's windows, her heart glowing, a strange excitement

rising in her chest.

What were the stars trying to say?

She didn't know it yet,

but by the end of the day —

she would.