Kira noticed the hesitation. “Well? Am I… Is he my… Are we…?”
Suddenly Kanade could no longer hide her emotions “I just saw three blue dots in your mouth. I appears you do not need to start over. You now have Odin’s most comedic son for a mate. Not bad. You two do fit well. You’re serious and he’s… well… Baldr.”
Hangover completely forgotten, Kira leapt to her feet and went to take off back to her room where the handsome Ogre remained. Till a hand on her forearm stopped her. “Let me go, Kanade. I need to find out myself.”
“Don’t forget these.” She held out the loose papers filled with many runes and pen.
“Oh, thank you.” She took the supplies and fled as if the hounds of hell were nipping at her heels. Her expression wild with entertainment.
“Crisis averted.” Ethan commented and heard Kanade laugh as she came around to sit thigh to thigh. “She’s probably loathed herself since she woke up in bed with a man when she’s been so good lately.”
“Probably right, but even drunk she likely wouldn’t have had a lapse in judgment. I think Baldr was attracted to her since it’s known he hates dancin’. Alcohol and proximity were likely what got them together. I’m just glad she doesn’t need to start over. Think we’ll see them?”
“Really?” He raised an eyebrow. “Really? You think Kira, the strongest Witch at this house, known for her sexual appetite since she was fifteen, will return after more than four months of no touching, not even by herself? That Kira Penbrooke? Did you hear what you said?”
“And I knew how stupid it sounded the moment it came out.” Kanade sighed before laughing. “Still… She has nothin’ on me in that area, but I won’t hold my breath.”
“Think we should tell the team?”
“Not at all.” She shook her loose, curly mane on blue tendrils slowly. “We’ll keep it for a surprise.”
Everyone started showing up an hour before the castle chime that comes from the entire building. The team got their seats taken and Nell commented “Pretty dress, Kanade. What happened to the last one? Did the flames come alive and destroy it?” her green eyebrows wiggled.
“It survived somehow.” Was the calm comeback. “But I’ve already outgrown the already form fitted dress. And thank you for the kind words, but Dress is the miracle worker. I’m just his pretty mannequin displaying another masterpiece.”
“Well my dress was thrown into the bonfire right after it was all over.”
After a few minutes Blake asked “Anyone know where Kira is? We all agreed to be here before the castle sounded.”
“She’s a bit… preoccupied and said not to wait up on her account.” Ethan said with an outer calmness that didn’t arouse any suspicion.
Turns out he and Kanade were wrong. Kira and Baldr came out hand in hand, glowing with joy seconds before the castle made a soft chiming sound. First words out of her mouth was “Lads, meet my soul mate!”
Jaws hit the floor.
“And my busty Witch!” Balder grinned proudly. “I finally found my woman after a millennia of waiting. We won’t stay long I’m afraid. We have no memory of last night and need to get back those memories and make dozens more before noon. Elemental, I’ll be joining your team. Word of warning.” He still grinned. “Is that a good enough for an introduction, Beautiful?”
“Aye.” She squeaked and went to turn around till Nell jumped across the table and pried Kira’s mouth open.
“Welcome to the club!” The Nymph crowed as she hugged the glowing Witch. “Take good care of her, Lord Baldr.”
“He better not.” Kira smirked. “I plan to have balls to the wall sex and get nailed eight ways to Sunday. Later, Lads!”
“Now THAT’S a woman!” Baldr merrily said and chased her back to her apartment, letting others reel from it. Soon the table was looking at Kanade as they explained earlier. Then there was laughter now that they got a new and well known master swordsman added to the team.
So now everyone on my team has a soul mate. Ethan realized first.
Outside as Ethan was heating Jormungandr’s boulders once again he turned to the sound of large wings flapping quickly in landing. Kanade and the World Snake also turned to find Mikhale and Valande over by the rest of the team. Ethan made quick work of the rocks and walked away as the snake picked them up and swallowed them to keep warm before sinking back down into the cold moat.
“It’s time, Daughter.” Mikhale said solemnly as soon as they came in comfortable range.
“For what, Daddy?” Kanade asked in confusion.
“Two weeks were all we were permitted.” He reminded her. “We must return to Spirit World forthwith to keep it safe and get our next assignment.”
Kanade came up and gave a deep hug. “I’m so happy you got to come, Daddy. I’ll miss you.”
“And you, Little One… Or should I redefine ‘little’? You’ve certainly had a growth spurt.” He didn’t show emotion behind his dropped faceplate.
“Awe, Daddy, I’ll always be your little girl.” She lifted the faceplate and kissed his cheek before going over to Valande and wrapping her arms tight. “I’m really goin’ to miss you too, Mother.”
“As will I, My dearest Hatchling. As will I. I will mostly miss the excitement of this little group and my son always making a fool of himself. He is endearing. I haven’t had so much fun in centuries.” Valande kissed her daughter’s brow. “But I am going to miss my petite little child who’s not so little anymore. Now you have grown taller than I and I’m so proud. Keep that angel of yours out of trouble.”
“It is a full time job.” Kanade joked dramatically.
“Aren’t all men the same, Val?” Floa said as she appeared. “And you were just going to leave without saying goodbye?” The two hugged.
“Ethan, stay good to my daughter and I’ll continue to tolerate you.” Mikhale held out a hand and Ethan shook it. “And be well. But before I go… here.” The green winged enforcer pulled out six discs all about two inches long. “I enchanted these personally to help suppress and burn off your excess aura. The one on your neck will last maybe a few more days before failing. My enchanting skills will last a bit longer than Val’s. Hopefully your changes will be discovered so a permanent solution can be found.”
“Thanks, Old Man. I appreciate it.” Ethan said as he put them in a pocket.
“Don’t ‘old man’ me little whelp. I’ll shove this where the sun don’t shine.” Mikhale said playfully while brandishing his light spear.
“Leave the boy alone, Husband. Ethan, give me a hug farewell.” He did just that. This time he didn’t get suffocated between her breasts now he was larger than both Enforcers. “Don’t change, Child. When we get another leave I want to come back and enjoy myself.”
“Will do, Val. Have a safe trip.” He replied, pulling away.
“Ready, My Angel?” Valande asked. Mikhale nodded and took off into the storm without fear. “Farewell till next time, Children.” Valande told them all before following after her angel, quickly disappearing from sight.
Chapter 11
As always when together Ethan and Kanade could not help being in both mental and physical contact. They walked the hall hand in hand, still glowing from love that hadn’t settled, nor would it likely ever happen. At least not anytime soon. Kanade walked in a flattering red dress and heels as always nowadays. Ethan wore blue jeans, a white shirt with a thick jacket. Still, he walked barefoot since his unique feet couldn’t have normal shoes made, but he’s become used to it in the past weeks. Kanade’s free hand twirled a lock of blue hair born out of a new habit now that she had finally grew her hair long enough to her liking. Being in each other’s mind all the time meant they quickly ran out of things to talk about, but now simply enjoyed the feel of one another or commenting on certain ideas.
It was January third now, thirteen days since the massive wedding of Floa and Odin. Work had begun on building the new expansion at the shop so they could fit since they had taken up residence
on Blue Angel Island for the past six days since they could no longer stand properly anymore in the bedroom. Ethan though was a great help carting around thick slabs of granite and placing them where the foreman told him.
Since the day the in-laws went back to Spirit World, Ethan’s day consisted of three large square meals per day, working on his new home for three hours, learning from Kira’s father on the male aspect of rune invoking for another three hours, spend eight hours rapidly pumping out weapons for Celestia and the rest was done spending time with the one person he was addicted to.
Of course, so much time meant they’d get on one another’s nerves, but any upsetting feelings or resentment was over in no time at all. The longest spat lasted less than an hour. The best part of telepathy was there were almost no secrets or misunderstandings. Being able to mentally multitask meant they could hold multiple conversations in private while enjoying the company of friends. It also meant she also helped further his casting abilities so that now he no longer got winded invoking powerfully complex spells.
Casting became easy ever since leaving Merlin’s tutelage. Especially since he graduated to the twenty third class. After twenty, there is no A, B or C and he was considered a Master Wizard spellweaver after being tested yesterday by five random High Wizards. Since he couldn’t properly activate the much more complex ones, he failed becoming a High Wizard. It didn’t bother him since it was something worth striving for. Even though he had power up and above the High Wizards, the intricacies needed to accomplish the finer points meant he was still green.
On Christmas, it seemed even Order celebrated good tidings and cheer, just not the religious side. Christmas trees were decorated and old friendships met up or old flames rekindled. Cook made grand feasts, untold kegs were tapped and actual gifts were exchanged. No one simply gave their points or cash. Real thoughtful presents were given to those you wished to give, but none expected any in return. Selfless gifts were given and no one was obliged to reciprocate.
Christmas morning Ethan awoke in their island paradise to the mouthwatering smell of Kanade frying up bacon, eggs, sausage, biscuits and toasting fresh bread. If that weren’t amazing enough all she wore was an apron, nothing else. Cook was a great teacher and gave Kanade all kinds of recipes. By that day, Ethan knew to stay out of her space when cooking or else get thumped on the head. She truly loved cooking for him, even though it was difficult to not help. Nonetheless, she marked the kitchen as her territory, just like the forge in Scotland was his. But after she was done cooking she sat naked in his lap and they ate in the large hammock feeding each other intimately.
Afterwards Ethan looked up and told Dress to spit out the presents. There weren’t many, but neither liked useless ornaments or useless gifts. Kanade giggled as she unwrapped hers first, not vacating his lap for anything. She was thrilled when he had gotten her the two box set of two classic shows she had searched unsuccessfully for for months. He managed to find and procure the entire box DVD collection of Benny Hill and classic Addams Family digitally re-mastered since her old discs were scratched from overuse.
Kanade likewise gave him two small presents. He opened the little one and his jaw dropped. In hand was a long sought after dream of owning Amazing Fantasy number fifteen, first introducing Spider-man. His Spider-man collection was now complete and up to date. Like her, he was ecstatic to find something long sought after. Apparently it was a trade she bartered. In exchange for enchanting Tattoo’s new exo-skeleton creation she’d get the copy from his own collection. To Kanade, Ethan’s joy told her the trade was so worth it. The second box was of a much improved necklace he could easily exchange talismans without trying to hurry and thread another before anyone got hurt. It made quick changes simple and safe.
After the private gift exchange they returned to Scotland for the rest of the festivities. Together Ethan and Kanade gave out presents to their dearest friends, but what was unexpected was all the gifts many warriors in the First House and all those who were saved earlier in the year gave of themselves, so many gifts that storage was needed and even to this day they hadn’t finished opening them. Most embarrassing of all were from many Nymphs who gave sex paraphernalia and letters offering to come by for some fun. Kanade crushed those letters and threw them away. Quite a few though gave exotic foods, spices and magical ingredients so he could further his study in the arcane arts.
Ethan waved when they were greeted and went back to thinking of recent events.
And as always for centuries, at exactly midnight on New Years, Odin had fallen into the Odin Sleep where he would rest in slumber. During this sleep cycle he was vulnerable, the only seven days each year the All Father could be killed. Any other time he never slept, got tired or could be killed. Only Pegasus stayed in the same room, as they were connected in life and in death.
Myth and history never spoke of Pegasus and Odin like this.
Standing guard outside the door in their giant white wolf form were Geri and Freki. Ethan learned that a few years after Odin’s wish to fight forever for Order was granted, he came upon the two Shifters who were sided with Chaos. As one might imagine, Odin eagerly flung himself into battle, but the male and female wolves proved themselves skilled, fighting day and night for five days… or so Blake told the story. When it looked like there wasn’t going to be a victor anytime soon, Odin lowered Gungnir and Geri and Freki paused long enough to listen to a proposal. Apparently if they changed sides for just a day, he would show them worthy prey. As wolves, they were intrigued so they accepted. Odin took them to battle and indeed he kept the promise as the three of them brought down a Dragon. Since then, Geri and Freki were magically bound to Order, first ever wolf shifters to do so. And into this day, they are bound to protect him as he sleeps and fight at his side whenever he calls upon them. And they remain faithfully and fiercely loyal to him.
Even now, they sit ready and waiting for anyone to dare come near his sealed solid gold door with thousands of name magically engraved, quite a few crossed out. The white wolves would give their lives for him.
Not even Floa could near the door with them standing guard. No meant no and nobody passed. Till the door opened from the inside at midnight on January eighth, it would stay sealed. None passed.
Unfortunately even the Demons knew of this weakness. And at midnight, attacks increased dramatically here at the First House, but like the swelled number of Demons, more warriors were called in. But no loyal Demons to the five Lords attacked as per the agreement. Only Sheedan’s wild bunch who were out of control were sent to try and infiltrate and slit Odin’s throat.
Fat chance of that happening.
But the warriors didn’t relax their vigil. Guards were posted at each entrance and stairwell leading to the top floor of the castle. No chances were taken. Even if the barrier remained strong and constantly monitored.
Intrigue shifted the calmness of Kanade’s thoughts as they continued down the hall. This therefore had Ethan looking in the same direction and instantly spotted the cause. Her perky side was roused as she said “About time y’all came up for air!”
Kira and Baldr turned to her dainty southern bell accent, as did the rest of the team and family. The happy couple hadn’t been seen since the morning after the grand wedding. No one other than Dress had seen them till now and Kira glowed with happiness as her skin was radiant, much more than usual. And she was pressed up against her new soul mate who remained cocky and full of comedic humor. The Witch smiled so wide it just had to hurt. “Top of the morning, Kanade, Boyo.” She was bursting with energy despite it being seven thirty in the morning, a time she absolutely despised until she had a fix of coffee. “Aye, I’m back. Kanade, I thought you were lying about having sex with a soul mate… or at least exaggerating the orgasms a wee bit.” She held up fire engine red fingernails to show a tiny space as reference. “It’s no wonder you are the way you are. I’ve never had so many orgasms, especially those that make me forget who I am.”
“The pleasure wa
s all mine. I assure you.” Baldr quipped and rubbed her leg. Her smile somehow widened.
“You know I’m unable to lie. I am glad you finally found a true love like the rest of us though.” Kanade sat right beside her. “You are radiant.”
“I knooow. Endless hours of sex will do that. You should know since you have the after sex glow every day.” She swooned and laid her head on her man’s large shoulder.
“Oh, by the way, Baldr, your transfer to my team has been cleared by Thor. He wanted me to tell you to not make wise cracks while on mission. Other than that, welcome to the team.”
“My brother was probably eager to get me out of his hair since I’ve been bugging him for the past thousand years. Even Loki was probably the first to throw a party after my transfer was finalized. My brothers never got my sense of humor.” Baldr grinned. “Don’t worry. I’ll be good. I’ll be too protective of my new bride to cause conflict on mission.”
“Well that can be an issue.” Ethan said an instant before Blake cut him a look. “Kira’s our Witch. Like Magnus, you’re an Ogre and therefore not very fast, but judging by your horn almost as large as his, you will be his partner on defending Kira and Nell as our long range specialists. Your kind are like tanks. Tough, can take a beating and keep going, but are slow. Blake and Ellen are our front line and I’m equipped to take any place needed, but I’ll be airborne usually. Every other day we hold skirmishes with Vitalli and Reevy’s teams to help me get used to flying on mock missions.
“Magnus is protective of Nell, but not so much as to get in her way. Kira will need space as well and if you get in her way, it can get us all killed. Her curses are lethal. Kira and Nell are partners. Not you and Kira. If you screw up our formations, I’ll throw you to the front lines or transfer you myself to another team. Is that clear?”
02 Wrath of Flames Page 41
