4. Fairies in Danger

Fairies in Danger Kirsty stared down at Ruby, sitting sadly on Rachel's hand. "Of course we'll help you!" she said. "Just tell us how," added Rachel. Ruby wiped the tears from her eyes. "Thank you!" she said. "But first I must show you the terrible thing that has happened. Follow me — as quickly as you can!" She flew into the air, her wings shimmering in the sunshine.

Rachel and Kirsty followed Ruby across the clearing. The fairy danced ahead of them, glowing like a crimson flame. She stopped at a small pond under a weeping willow tree. "Look! I can show you what happened yesterday," she said. Ruby flew over the pond and scattered another shower of sparkling fairy dust with her tiny, red wand. All at once, the water lit up with a strange, silver light. It bubbled and fizzed, and then became still. With wide eyes, Rachel and Kirsty watched as a picture appeared in the water. It was like looking through a window into another land! "Oh, Rachel, look!" said Kirsty.

A river of the brightest blue ran swiftly past hills of the greenest green. Scattered on the hillsides were red-and-white toadstool houses. And on top of the highest hill stood a silver palace with four pink towers. The towers were so high, their points were almost hidden by the fluffy white clouds that floated past.

Hundreds of fairies were making their way toward the palace. Some were walking and others were flying. Rachel and Kirsty could see goblins, elves, and pixies, too. Everyone seemed very excited. "Yesterday was the day of the Fairyland Midsummer Ball," Ruby explained. She flew over the pond and pointed with her wand at a spot in the middle of the scene. "There I am, with my Rainbow sisters."

Kirsty and Rachel looked closely at where Ruby was pointing. They saw seven fairies, each dressed prettily in her own rainbow color. Wherever they flew, they left a trail of fairy dust behind them. "The Midsummer Ball is very special," Ruby went on. "And my sisters and I are always in charge of sending out invitations." The front doors of the palace slowly opened to the sound of tinkling music. "Here come King Oberon and Queen Titania," said Ruby. "The Fairy King and Queen. They are about to begin the ball." Kirsty and Rachel watched as the king and queen stepped through the doors. The king wore a splendid golden coat and crown. His queen wore a

silver dress and a tiara that sparkled with diamonds. Everyone cheered loudly. After a while, the king signaled for quiet. "Fairies and friends," he began. "We are very glad to see you all here. Welcome to the Midsummer Ball!" The fairies clapped their hands and cheered again. A band of green frogs in purple suits started to play their instruments, and the dancing began. Suddenly, a gray mist filled the room. Kirsty and Rachel watched in alarm as all the fairies started to shiver. Then a loud, chilly voice shouted out, "Stop the music!" The band fell silent. Everyone looked scared. A tall, bony figure was pushing his way through the crowd. He was dressed all in white, and there