Read by Matilda Longbottom

IIn the soft glow of late afternoon, Twinkle Star leisurely makes her way back to the fairy village. Lost in thought, she reflects on the enchanting sights of the gnome village, drawing parallels between the worlds of fairies and gnomes. As she nears her tiny home, a sudden shout and gasp pierce the air. Looking up, she sees her friends Ellie, Lemon Drop, and Aria rushing towards her.

Amid the jumble of excited voices, Twinkle Star struggles to comprehend their words. After a brief pause, Ellie takes a deep breath and explains, “We were so worried when you didn’t join our afternoon gathering in the town square. Searching everywhere, we feared something might have happened to you.”

The other fairies nod in agreement, and Lemon Drop adds, “Remembering your interest in the gnome village, we ventured as far as the Dragon Bridge but found no sign of you. The thought of you being eaten by a dragon terrified us!”

Aria gulps and admits, “I’ve never been so frightened.”

Twinkle Star looks at her friends, overcome by the love and concern that she sees reflected back at her. She apologizes for the worry that she caused them and invites them into her home. They settle on dandelion couches with tiny thimbles of tea and plates of biscuits.

Twinkle Star, looking at each friend in turn, begins recounting her morning adventure. Gasps fill the room as they hear about the rumbling voice of the dragon and the surprising encounter with Igor. Laughter ensues as Twinkle Star describes her tumble after being caught off guard. For over an hour, she shares the wonders of the gnome village and her promises to visit again soon.

The four fairies fall into a quiet, contemplative mood, reflecting on their preconceived notions and fears. After a thoughtful pause, Twinkle Star softly declares, “I want to go back and help the gnomes. What they do is noble, and they deserve our support.” Her friends, nodding and smiling, express their eagerness to join her. Even the overly cautious Ellie agrees.

Overwhelmed by their kindness, Twinkle Star suggests, “When should we go?”

Aria, peering out the window and seeing that dusk is rapidly approaching, exclaims, “There’s no time like the present.” Smiles break out, and the friends jump up from the couches, rushing out the door towards the Dragon Bridge.

Confidently, Twinkle Star leads the way, having crossed the bridge before, while the others follow nervously. As they step onto the bridge, a familiar rumble sounds, but this time, they stay on their feet. The dragon swoops down, addressing Twinkle Star, “It’s you again, but who are the others?” She introduces her friends, explaining their intention to help the gnomes. The dragon, sensing their pure intentions, bows, allowing them to pass.

The four friends hurry along the Dragon Bridge and into the gnome village. Twinkle Star points out the enchanting homes of the gnomes with the various brightly colored doors. The friends are in awe as they look all around them. Unlike this morning, there is quite a bit of activity in the village. The gnomes are bustling about, getting ready for their evening trek into neighboring gardens. Several gnomes that Twinkle Star met earlier in the day wave and call out greetings that she happily returns.

The friends continue on to the village square, where several gnomes have gathered, including Igor. Twinkle Star rushes up to him and introduces her friends. She explains her idea of the fairies helping the gnomes with their evening chores in the gardens. Igor listens intently with a twinkle in his eye. He thinks it is a grand idea. He looks around at the other nearby gnomes who are all nodding excitedly.

As the sun sets, fairies and gnomes collaborate on a garden plan, assigning tasks in all directions. Throughout the night, they painstakingly pull weeds, pat soil, and lovingly care for the flowers and vegetables found in the gardens. Just before the sun begins to rise, they realize that their work is done for the night and all head back to the gnome village. Before dawn, they return to the gnome village, grateful for the shared magic.

In the village square the group of garden helpers cannot contain their yawns but still take time to bask in joy at a job well done. The gnomes’ express gratitude, anticipating lush growth. Fairies thank them for the experience, promising to return. Parting ways, tired but fulfilled, they look forward to future adventures, knowing there’s a special kind of magic in helping others. ❖