Forgemaster (Book 1 in the Spirit Guide Saga)

by H. Lee Morgan, Jr

Chapter 11

  Waiting for their arrival just where they had left was Kanade who wrapped her arms and wings around Ethan from behind. He was startled because he barely stood for a second after being transferred. She immediately began talking “Are you alright? Hurt anywhere? I was so worried!”

  “Angel, calm down. You’re talking too fast to be understood.” He laughed. “And you’re crushing me.” Her arms were much like steel bands.

  Her strong sense of smell inhaled. She detected his natural smell, hers lingered from last night strongly. Nothing of Kira thankfully and a potent smell of burnt meat. Satisfied all went well and he returned to her, she released her hold while saying “I was so worried somethin’ happened. Most of the day has gone by. In a half hour dinner will be ready. Tell me what happened.”

  Ethan could see Kira after soft wings pulled back. The Witch was on her knees crying openly in her mother’s embrace on the street with Minna too. The father stood near, crying too at seeing his child return alive safely. Then the Amazon guards stepped closer and with a purpose he couldn’t let slide. “One moment Kanade, I have something to take care of.”

  He started over to the group and she followed, taking his hand and sighing in relief of his touch. “Kira, go stay with your family.”

  “She will come with us.” One Amazon flexed her muscles and fingered a sword at her round hip.

  Ethan looked up at the six foot nine woman levelly. “Her hunt is finished and needs her family after being controlled by a pack of Incubi. Your services are no longer needed ladies. Kira will stay with them till her case has been verified and punishment carried out.”

  “You cannot order us, Boy.” The woman lazily smiled.

  “Actually I just did, Bertha. I was her supervisor, she did her best and has returned. If you’re going to try overruling my judgment you better be ready to lose more than just singed eyebrows.”

  “Is that a threat? I’ll tear you apart.” The Amazons glowered.

  This time Ethan smiled. “I just killed seven Incubi without breaking a sweat…” then he gasped as he felt a twinge on the back of his neck and slapped a hand over it. “And apparently my Drone just took out their Elf master. It just connected, I felt it just now.” The pain vanished as quickly as it came. “If you interfere on my earlier promise ladies, you wouldn’t be able to get close to tear me apart.”

  “Very well.” The silent, second Amazon said, realizing his power is greater than theirs. “She is your responsibility, Elemental. If she harms another or escapes, it will fall upon you to explain.” She grabbed her sister’s hand and pulled her away before conflict escalated.

  Kira’s father promised “We will watch over her. Thank you, Ethan, for bringing her back and letting her stay with us.”

  He simply nodded back. “I’ll also send you a copy of her hunt, but don’t show Minna. It quite graphic for a little girl. Especially towards the end. What is your name again?” The father gave it. “Alright. Expect it soon. Right now I need to head home, shower and get back for food.”

  “Actually, Ethan,” Kanade said. “go ahead on home. I’ll be bringing supper home tonight. I have a few things to take care of first. Storm-shadow wanted to be here, but Star-bolt was injured when she and Queen Gra went on an Arachne hunt.”

  “Injured? What happened? Will she be alright?” Worry filled him.

  “She will be fine in a few days. She was bitten, but Arachne venom is very painful and paralyzing. Star-bolt though, I heard, flattened the overgrown bug before fallin’. Gra and healers are still with her and already asked for no visitors. Now get goin’. The sooner you send the recordin’ the faster everythin’ will settle.” Kanade gave a gentle swat on his backside which made him laugh and shake his head.

  Ethan took off in a jog.

  “Kanade?” the Enchantress turned towards Kira who fidgeted. “I wanted to say thank you for being kinder than me. The stone, he told me about it, and though it wasn’t used, I’m thankful. I think you should see my hunt… thought I didn’t do much except get captured and almost ended up as a breeding machine. Ethan is a true gentleman and though I can’t forgive myself, I’m happy you are his. He deserves a woman like you, not me.”

  Touched by those words, Kanade let her power flow into Kira, which the Witch could also sense, but said nothing at the intrusion. Kanade learned Kira truly felt miserable compared to the jealous feelings she had sensed before. Then she pulled it back and laid a hand on the much smaller woman’s shoulder. “I planned on watchin’ every second and I’m glad you returned safely. And I won’t ever forget what you did, but I forgive you now that you truly know how horrible it was to lose control at the whims of another. I won’t expel you from this House if you swear to never let it happen again, especially with my mate.”

  “I won’t, but may I ask a question?” Kanade stepped back and nodded while crossing her arms beneath her breasts. “Is it true everyone has a soul mate?”

  The Enchantress smiled. “Of course everyone does. Your parents hide it well, but they too are soul mates. When you find yours you will know instantly as soon as you kiss one another. The only beings who find their angel differently are Pixie and Nymphs for they must mate to find their one. Many times, especially for immortals like us, our mate either finds us the moment we are born and waits till we are old enough or yours has yet to be born. Your dreams will be influenced frequently by your true mate. I was confused when I learned Ethan was mine only because I never knew my kind had mates outside our race. But my dreams, even as a little girl, were of a bearded man of great power that rivaled my own. I could not tell you how many thousands I’ve kissed before findin’ him.” She pointed at Ethan’s swift flight across the ground. “I was only confused because of circumstances. I made spells to help guide me to my angel, but nothin’ worked and I resorted to age old customs when I went to Spirit World, but you can find your mate more easily than I… if he is alive at the moment. The universe is a big place and my narrow search didn’t consider other races, but you won’t have my problems.”

  “Really? I know I shouldn’t but could you teach…”

  “Kira,” she turned to her red-eyed mother who’s tears finally slowed. “You don’t need to ask, Lass. And she is right about your father and I. We like to keep it a secret because it is rare to find your true soul mate so young. Many of us die before finding that person because we are all that stand between life and Chaos. I will show you how to divine your true mate. I wanted to for many years, but Ken was no longer mine and would not allow me access to the texts. But when he was my burden I found the spell which led me to your father. It is the most complex spell there is in our family. Now that Ken is gone and the pages safely maintained I’ll show you how, if you’ll like. It’ll take six months to complete the ritual and during that time you cannot have sex, not even with yourself or you’ll need to start over.” The last part her mother said was done as she covered Minna’s ears. Her husband turned slightly red as he heard it too.

  “After meeting seven bloody Incubi there won’t be any trouble in that area.” Kira vowed. “I never want that to happen again.” She shivered, even in hot leather.

  “Let’s go home girls.” The father said. “It’s been a long day and I’ll even suffer through one of your chic-flicks if you want to.”

  “At least we don’t need to listen to Ken’s annoying comments.” Kira quipped on the bright side and got a laugh from her parents. “Father, what I need is a shower and to sleep. Is that alright?”

  “Why certainly, Love. I’ll even get Cook to make your favorite ice cream.”

  “That I would like, Father.” Kira sighed.

  Kanade watched them go and oddly felt relieved. Just thinking of what happened yesterday raised her ire, but the punishment and regret from Kira left her satisfied. Still, she had things to do and flew up to her now barren bedroom turned into office to get a few things done. Several minutes later the castle chimed and she soon had Cook prepare an assortment of two meals for a
special night in. The Wisp was used to such requests and made the meal which Kanade packed in the picnic basket Floa gave last night and left the castle with great excitement and trepidation.

  After downloading the entire recording of the hunt to the tablet and wirelessly sending it first to Tattoo and those from the tribunal, Blake, Storm-shadow and to Kira’s father as promised he set it up on screen, knowing Kanade was going to ask for it anyway. His finger moved over the screen and placed it over the play button. Then he peeled off his shirt and turned around to ask “Dress, I’m worried about Star-bolt. How is she doing? Can you tell me anything?”

  Dress sighed with a kind smile. “Sure, Hon. Storm-shadow already gave me permission and to tell you not to worry. I’m looking at her right now and she is sleeping comfortably. Gra is stroking her neck rather gently. Yes, the Queen of the Amazons has a gentle side.” Dress and Ethan chuckled. “Storm-shadow is laying beside her as well. She was in real bad shape when she came in. Gra and a platoon of Amazons and Centaur were sent to an Arachne nest down in Malaysia where the demons were nesting after destroying an entire tribe that was quite isolated and thought they would go unnoticed in a rural locale. Well our network is quite extensive, as you know. Tattoo has spent years getting things so smooth and cooperative. Personally it has eased my burdens tremendously. For centuries I was the primary messenger, but now I have more time to do what I love thanks to technology. Making fabulous clothes.”

  “Dress, your wandering.” He did that often.

  “Sorry, Handsome.” Dress winked. “Well the Arachne were more fortified than expected and as you know, Arachne webbing is like bands of steel, only stronger and not as flammable as spider silk. Well the hunters were led into an ambush where the Arachne weren’t alone. Ghoul’s tagged along, feasting on the corpses of the Arachne attack on the village. Those spider women sure are a nasty species and smart. They hid while our hunters pushed the Ghouls away and then attacked. Thankfully everyone was able to escape, but the mission was a failure. Star-bolt wasn’t the only injury, another Pegasai, four centaur and three Amazons are all in bad shape.”

  “Jeeze, how many were there? Enemy I mean.”

  “From the recordings I’ve seen… about sixty Ghoul and a hundred Arachne. We sent in thirty. Ten Amazon, Pegesai and Centaur. No one expected those numbers for sure. Thankfully everyone got out alive in time.”

  “Agreed.” Ethan sighed. “Just let Storm know I’m thinking of Star-bolt and wish her a speedy recovery. And ask when I can come visit.”

  Dress nodded and went quiet for a moment before saying “He says it is appreciated, but not to come today. They need quiet and Gra is in the mood to hurt someone and if you show up she’ll hurt you. He’ll let you know later.”

  “Alright. Well I’m going to take a shower.” He stood up as Dress spit out fresh and folded clothes. The hot shower was just what he needed and wondered what all the holes in the wall were for and was startled due to the hot air blasting from them. At least the clear glass door was sturdy and didn’t shatter as he made impact with it. The inner railing kept him from slipping along with sure grip non-slick flooring. He recovered and turned the shower drier off before finishing the needed wash. Compared to his original tub which was like a hot-tub in size, this open shower was large enough for Kanade to stretch at least one wing straight out completely. That thought led to her showering and then being naked and other thoughts that made his face flush and ears burn and not be a result from the hot shower. He shook his head and turned the water off, used his power over heat to dry off, dressed and groomed his hair and short beard again that was just long enough to be soft, not short and bristly or long and grimy.

  As he stepped out he was pleasantly surprised to find Kanade had returned and Dress’s face gone from the cabinet. Kanade sat on the couch transported from her room, her long, luscious legs crossed on the cushions with the tablet situated there. On the long coffee table in front of the enormous sofa sat a large dinner meal she had spread out and was covered by cloth to keep warm. Her golden eyes were intensely locked on the screen and Ethan could hear the speakers reciting his and Kira’s initial conversation after being transferred to Amsterdam. Without Dress to take his dirty clothes, Ethan sat them in a corner in the bathroom.

  Quietly he moved around and sat beside her. Without looking from the screen that began moving through the forest and images mostly locked on the back of Kira’s head Kanade said “Sorry. Couldn’t wait to watch…”

  “It’s fine, Angel. But you should Fast Forward till you see us stop on a path and she look back. Kira was too silent after that last part. Not a word was spoken till then.”

  “Promise? No secrets?” Her eyes spoke that she was still a little jealous and self conscious.

  “I promise. The only part I’d rather skip over was tripping over a stump and falling flat on my face. Kira didn’t see, I don’t think.”

  “I’ll play at twice the speed so we can eat and watch.” She lightly hit the double arrows and placed it on the table. The computer still made sounds, only faster. She pulled the covers off the food and scooted closer to watch closely while eating a delicious meal. Ethan was kind enough to be silent and let her watch. She moved quickly when the screen showed the game trail and she heard her mate’s voice for the first time, as promised. “Oh, go back. Go back.” She told herself and rewound several seconds before hitting play. She mindlessly munched on a sweetly steamed carrot while hanging on every word. He was overly full by the time they started walking again and wrapped an arm around Kanade’s waist. She looked away for a moment with a tender smile before going back to the show. At the part where Kira covered herself in potion she accused “You touched her.”

  “No fair. Kanade, did you forget how you helped me with my back just last night? If I can’t reach every spot on my back, how could she?” Kanade just huffed and mumbled something about understanding how she couldn’t smell Kira or something. “Oh, here is where she spotted the first trap.”

  Kanade’s anger vanished as she watched closely and barely saw it herself, but Kira easily did and disarmed it. She ate what Ethan couldn’t and was soon full. As she listened from the minutes upon the hillcrest she curled up in his embrace, listening to his narrative, pointing things out she would have otherwise missed. For a quarter hour she remained so till Kira began moving in. Ethan stayed still, but always kept the steady image of Kira and the front door centered at all times. When Kira disappeared on the backside she heard him whisper from the computer speakers “Oh crap.” and saw the pair of powerful Incubi stalking. Kanade sat forward, listening and hearing everything. She even felt sorry for Kira when she returned to the screen, completely enamored with the lust demons as their newest slave. When the door closed she watched as he flew for a closer cover and hid just in time. Her attention was glued to the screen as the Elf appeared and then the image turned fiery, but she could still see figures clear enough as he vanquished them all and launched a Drone. “So that is what you meant earlier when you slapped your neck. You actually felt your Drone destroy the demon master that got away?” She paused the show.

  “Not destroy exactly…” he looked at the ceiling for a better explanation. “more like it connected. I remember a slightly similar sensation when Kira helped me out. Whether it was the range, I don’t know, but when I wasn’t looking and it destroyed the target, I felt a mild twinge. When I got back here it was a much sharper feeling. I’m just glad the Drone knew where the Elf went. All I needed was the Elf’s face pictured in my head and the Drone did the rest.” She nodded and resumed, wincing when he slapped Kira back to herself and hearing her response. Ethan went to Fast Forward, but her hand gripped him. “Kanade, I don’t want you to see what’s coming.”

  She let go as he tapped the touch-pad, pausing it, and twisted around. “Ethan, you forget so easily that for the past eleven years I was a Spirit Guide who took souls from Earth to Spirit World. I’ve seen horrors not even you can imagine. I’ve taken souls from so
ldiers blown quite literally in half, their bodies blown to bits, gruesome car accidents that weren’t accidents at all, drowned children and I could go on. None of that affected me even close to what happened yesterday. Nothin’ you’ve seen comes close to what I have.” She then reached over and resumed play just as he opened the door to fine the cribs of purple skinned babies with pale hair to one side and naked women chained to beds, some heavily swollen with pregnancy.

  Ethan watched her cool expression closely and found she wasn’t lying. Kanade obviously didn’t approve or stand for what she saw, but it didn’t affect her in any shocking way. She watched the next two minutes and laid the devise down when she saw her own wings block out the light upon his return.

  “So how long did you wait for me to come back?” He asked as he collected the dishes and empty glasses.

  “Didn’t leave.” She admitted as she took the tablet back to the desk and sat it by his headset. “The only one who did was Kira’s mother and that’s only because she had to take the book, that Ken once bound together, somewhere safe. Many Witches share spells, but some are coveted and dangerous in the wrong hands. The book needs new spells of protection, especially if Witches and Wizards aligned with Chaos got their hands on it. Kira’s sister and Father waited silently as well before her mother returned. Storm-shadow stayed till an hour before you arrived for Star-bolt. I was very nervous while you were gone.”

  “So was I. The only thing that settled my nerves is whatever this surprise you got for me is.” He smiled. “So where is it? What did you get? Show me.”

  Kanade struggled not to blush and barely held on as she smiled secretively in return. “It’s not entirely ready yet.” She stood up and went to her nightstand beside his and pulled out a strip of black cloth. “Stand up and close your eyes for me.”

  “Must I?” he stood anyway.

  “Yes. Be patient. It will be worth it.” She spun her finger in the air and he turned around trustingly. Kanade then tied the cloth over his eyes and made sure he couldn’t see through the thick material. Now her features reddened as she said “Stand right here for a few minutes.” He nodded and she secretively placed a few spells on him. A variation of what Kira had done.

  Kanade jumped into action to grab a box and opened it to look at what Dress made for her so quickly and she changed into them, rushed into the bathroom to clean up, brush her hair and teeth and made everything perfect. She pulled out a dozen candles, lit them with a lighter and placed them around the room. She sprinkled rose petals over the bed and over the floor before turning out the lights. Her heart pounded rapidly and she looked around to find all perfect.

  Ethan was slowly brought out of the spell and heard Kanade’s sultry voice say “You can take off the blindfold now.”

  “That was quick.” He said, but she didn’t correct him.

  Immediately he noticed the room wasn’t as it was a short minute ago. The room was candlelit, dark, romantic and mysterious. The fireplace crackled with cheer and flower petals gave the room a delicate scent which made one’s mind rest. That all was inconsequential to what stood before him. His heart slammed on the accelerator and beat wildly.

  Kanade wore the finest lingerie he had ever seen that no machine could ever design and could only be done by the very finest hands. She wore a strapless white corset made of satin with baby blue floral patterns wrapping around her torso and lifted breasts which had his knees weakening. A lacy miniskirt hung from her bare sparkling hips while intricate vine embroidery and mesh leggings hugged all the way up to her tone thighs. Long white stiletto heels made her natural eight foot height seven inches taller. And her wings glimmered from the fireplace, glowing warmly behind her to also play on her natural glittery skin. The gold necklace around her delicate neck shimmered like the finest topaz.

  She smiled timidly in his direction to ask “What do you think of my surprise, Darlin’?”

  All Ethan could do was stare in awe.

  “My Love, are you just going to stand there or are you going to claim me?”

  The original question settled in first. “Kanade… wow can’t quite cover… Wow…” He gulped and she watched his neck constrict from swallowing. “It’s too much.”

  That wasn’t what she wanted to hear. “What?” her eyes widened in shock and hurt. “But I thought you’d…”

  “You’re making it impossible to not take advantage of you.” He interrupted. “I know if I take one step… I won’t stop.”

  Then she knew what she had to do. “Ethan, I cannot resist either. Just so you know” she took a steadying breath and lightly touched her hip to pull the short curtain up slightly. “nothin’s under the skirt.”

  It was too much as he burst into flames and his clothes vaporized clean off. She got a good look at him for the first time as he truly is and got excited. Her heart sped as she enjoyed how he stiffened with fire swirling around his penis like a vortex. More it hammered in her breast so as he rumbled like a beast purring. Coated in flames, his skin was much redder than naturally possible, but she noticed he was instantly and fully excited in every way. He walked forward, burning flower petals beneath him and couldn’t stop the blaze that had ignited. She held her hands out and said “Take me fully as your mate.”

  Instead he scooped her in his arms and the fire covered her as well. The tongues exciting every inch of exposed flesh, tickling her feathers, but not damaging her expensive lingerie. “You can bet on it.” Her arms wrapped around his neck.

  Runes all around the room began to glow, protecting everything from fire.

  Gently, Kanade found herself lowered into bed and felt truly alive as her mate’s passion for her burned in reality. He climbed atop her and began kissing, which she reciprocated while her hands caressed his hairy, firm chest. Her wings wrapped around him as his fire burned all over her.

  The Enchantress brushed her fingers along his jaw as he pulled from the kiss and the desire she saw in his eyes and mind made her bring him back for another kiss. She felt his raging maleness press against her thigh and she spread her legs before he had time to lay beside her. He growled, grabbed her hips and managed to pull her closer before slowly using his flaming hands to unlace the corset. The gentleness he used was opposite of how possessive she felt under his gaze while her hands explored him all over committing this moment to memory.

  Before she knew it he had the corset off and her large breasts spilled out before him. He never felt so much like a man as he made her keen and squeak as his mouth claimed her breasts, which she arched in offering to give him his desire. She moaned in pleasure as he worked and the fires that tantalized her senses. His ministrations slowly slid lower as his instincts told him to please his soul mate just to satisfy her every desire and he did.

  True to her word, he took hold of her miniskirt that had nothing beneath and slowly pulled it down her hips and she lifted so he could easily slide them down her legs he kissed all the way till throwing the fabric aside. Kneeling between her legs he gazed at her nakedness submitting to him and he said “Mine.” Before diving to her swollen, hairless sex and licking her sweet nectar and eliciting a gasp and moan at the same time.

  Kanade was panting as he hit her every erotic spot and when he said ‘Mine.’ she knew it was a fact. She was his just as much as she owned him. He must have realized she was in need as his fingers began to probe what was his always and forever. Her fingers tore through the bed sheets when hitting the right spot and the fabric loudly ripped, but he didn’t seem to notice. Her hips bucked on their own till her own possessive side had her sitting up panting “My turn, Darlin’.”

  The Elemental was flipped on his back with a rumble of the primal kind that awakened his mate’s inner beast and watched as her finger glowed a soft yellow around his burning erection to watch as suddenly his pubic hair vanished and before he could question why, her mouth consumed him while her warm, wet tongue twisted around and did things he never conceived possible in pleasure. He felt himself purring as she
worked him. Her lips were as sinful as he first believed and then some and in the far recesses of his mind he realized she removed his short hairs because she doesn’t like hair in her mouth, no one did.

  When he could stand no more he grunted and she made a smacking sound with one great suck and sat up almost afraid she had done something wrong till she felt a gentle push coaxing her back. Her knees bent and spread as he positioned his tip flush against her entrance. Slowly he pushed into paradise and she moaned, accepting her one true love.

  Slowly he pushed till meeting resistance and watched her eyes widen. He stopped, but she was long past ready and wrapped her legs around his hips and pulled him in suddenly to his hilt. She hid a scram by biting her lower lip as she made him break her maidenhead. Her wings shook and read his mind of seeing her hurt. “No, don’t move, Darlin’.” She gasped. “The pain, isn’t so bad…”

  Worry for her dimmed the intensity of his flames, but still filled the whole room. “You sure?”

  “Yes, it’s startin’ to feel good… especially with the flames spinnin’ around your dick. I feel you in me doin’ something wonderful…” She gasped as she felt his flames inside her swirl with approval and more speed. “I can get used to that.” She laughed while keeping him still with her immensely powerful legs. “Ethan, when you popped my virginity, did you…”

  “Feel a burst of something zap through me? Yes.” He gulped. “Wha…”

  “It means we are now inseparable. You’ve become one with your soul mate. By joinin’ bodies we are one. Now I am truly your wife and you are my husband. I felt it too, Darlin’.” She breathed out slowly. “The pain is passin’. I love you, Ethan. Forever.”

  “And I love you, Kanade, but forever isn’t long enough. Always is how I feel for you.”

  Tears of happiness burst from her eyes as she covered her mouth and nodded. “Always then. Make love to me, My Angel.”

  Her legs loosened, but didn’t let go as he pulled out some and saw a little blood before thrusting gently back in with long strokes. Her hips matched him and soon the tears dried as passion burned her hotter than his flames roaring through the room. He watched as her strong stomach muscles tightened before he felt her inner sex muscles clench him hard and her wings seemed to seizure as she mewled and knew he had made his woman orgasm. He growled and started thrusting harder, keeping her in that state for minutes. Her hands dug in his back painfully, nails cutting into flesh had warm liquid running down, but for him it was the most exquisite torture he aroused in his woman and roared as he slammed harder as release was rushing to the surface.

  Release shot into her hot as lava as he threw his head back and roared in triumph, also making her cry out too as the celebration happened together and her inner muscles clamped on like a vice and didn’t let him go, not that he wanted to leave heaven or to stop seeing the lazy face lovingly gazing up at him with such love and adoration he knew he did something right and got full approval.

  Morning arrived too soon and Ethan couldn’t sleep at all as Kanade and he sat, with her legs wrapped around him, not letting him go. His hands wrapped around her backside while hers were around his neck. They shared breath of exertion, heavily panting and slick with sweat. Her cinnamon scent was more potent to him than ever before. Her expensive lingerie unfortunately ended up as a casualty of lovemaking war when it was all torn off somehow, even her shoes were charred remains when they were in an unprotected area where runes didn’t guard. She leaned back with a slow smile. “Promise to never leave me.”

  “We are one. I cannot leave you, nor will I desire anything close to you.”

  She leaned forward and kissed him deeply. “Stay inside me for a bit longer.”

  “Try and stop me.” His flames grew, as did something else.

  This made her grin more. Her legs tightened and were ready.

  Several minutes later they both quaked in release and heard Dress clear his throat not for the first time, well he didn’t have a throat, but the sound was similar.

  Kanade squeaked as she rolled off and hid behind her wings.

  “Good for you kids!” Dress hooted. “’Bout time you got laid, but you can’t stay locked inside all day. The tribunal review of Kira will be decided at eight. You two better take a shower… Awe… Kanade, please tell me that pile of ash at the foot of the bed isn’t the nightwear I made for your special night?”

  “Sorry, Dress.” She said, mortified.

  The gold face sighed. “No more. You will have to sleep naked from now on. It wasn’t an easy rush to make, especially with the embroidery, Hon. I should have known this would happen. Now that you two are together, no more.”

  “I… I can” Kanade looked to Ethan’s wide back and saw where her nails scratched him. “accept that. Sorry. Darlin’, I need to clean your back…”

  “Don’t!” he grabbed her hand before she flew out of bed. “I’m keeping them.”

  “Trial and error, Girl. Some men like being marked by their woman. Barbaric if you ask me, but to each their own.” Dress winked. “Besides, now that you two have finally gotten over being awkward, you won’t be in clothes for a while. I will likely go blind.”

  “From all you’ve seen in your life Dress, this probably doesn’t even register in the top trillion things you probably remember.” Ethan replied.

  “True.”

  “No… we won’t be in clothes for long anymore.” Kanade admitted happily. “How long were you there pervert? Voyeurism is a crime you know.”

  Dress ginned brightly from what remained of the candlelight. “Only enough to see you two were quite literally made for each other. I’ll give you a few minutes of privacy before I’m reported to the authorities.” He then spat out fresh clothes for both of them and then a pair of classy black heels for Kanade. Then Dress’s face vanished as he hooted in pleasure.

  “Care to share the shower with me?” Ethan asked as he stood up, no longer on fire. She liked what she saw greatly.

  “YES!” She cheered and jumped out. Her eyes followed his to her chest as they bounced. Then her eyes turned to his masculinity responding to her bare femininity. Fire swirled again.

  In seconds she found her back against the running shower and sudden steam room and never enjoyed it more.

  A half hour later they exited clothed and outside their bedroom door lay a finished dagger and a metal tablet with scratches that looked familiar. He knew what to do and burned it to read aloud “It’s Celestia’s and says ‘Enchantress Kanade, since you now live here I expect timely enchantments. This dagger is Yamat and belongs to Ethaerian Luci Morttia of the Thirty Second House. I still expect your superior work not to be less now that you are mated to my apprentice. Ethan, return to work tonight. Rutting will not be tolerated in my nest if your work is compromised.’ Uh, Kanade, you think she heard us?”

  His beloved shook her head and plucked the sheathed dagger from the ground. “No. I made sure the silence runes were active. It’s why we didn’t hear her working downstairs last night. And from now on…” she turned to the stone archway and pressed her finger against the rune he knew to mean silence and glowed when active. Kanade’s eyes turned from molten lustrous gold to a glowing dark blue and the very tip of her finger made a line which sunk in the wall like acid on Styrofoam to create a new one connected to the silence rune. “There, from now on, if the two of us are together inside it will react instantly.”

  “You’re a handy woman, you know that?” he grinned as she sat the dagger inside their room to do later.

  She smiled as she took his hand. “And don’t you forget it.” As they traveled down the stairs she asked. “My Angel, how is your back feelin’ truly?”

  “Fine.” He looked up. “Why do you ask?”

  “Because I accidently scratched you several times.” She said bashfully.

  “Did you feel it when I accidently plucked a few wing feathers?”

  Kanade stopped in the stifling, but empty shop and spread her wings. She knew her wings
like the back of her hand. “I didn’t notice because you made me so happy, but when did you do it?”

  “After the third round. I had a fistful while you were riding on top. When you quivered your wings spread while I gripped and about six came off. Sorry.”

  “Nonsense. They will grow back soon and I was enjoyin’ myself too much to notice. Um, after lunch and Blake I’ll need to enchant Yamat, but after…”

  “I’m just getting started with you Kanade. Be prepared for more.”

  “I was hopin’ you’d say that because I’m nowhere near satisfied. You better be ready to not get much sleep.” She threatened.

  “Don’t worry about me. I got maybe four or five a day since my resurrection. At least now my sleep will no longer be alone.” He admitted.

  “If what we did was any indication, sleep will be the last things on our minds.”

  “I like the way you think.” Hope filled him as she laughed and took his hand.

  Outside there was no Storm-shadow waiting and it reminded them both of what happened. As one they said “Star-bolt.” They smiled because of it. “We should visit before.”

  “No disagreements here.” Ethan said.

  Kanade soared with Ethan at her side and was euphoric. It had been the best night of her life and she felt his emotions to know they shared the same things. Dawn prevailed and to anyone who looked up, Kanade would look like any other Spirit Guide. And Ethan was fine holding her. In minutes Kanade bypassed the Ogre entrance and touched down in the Pegesai hall.

  Hand in hand they walked with Ethan leading the way. Many winged horses were already waking and leaving. Some walked on the ground while others galloped in the air. A few merely gave a cursory glance at the pair, but were left alone. Those on the ground gave greetings before passing by.

  The Elemental pressed the doorbell, so to speak, after climbing the steps.

  Stone door opened and revealed a haggard Storm-shadow. The expression changed to surprise. “Ethan, Kanade?”

  “Hey, Storm, How’s Star-bolt?” Ethan asked while Kanade waved.

  “Resting still. Come in, but do not make loud noises.” The stallion backed away.

  Inside they found Star-bolt bandaged up and had more than just been bitten. She had cuts and scrapes all over and still fussing protectively over her was Queen Gra. The mare was in the expansive living and bedroom with her large head on her companion’s legs. Even Gra had a thick bandage over the side of her neck and forearm. Must have been one hell of a battle. He thought. Ethan bowed respectfully to the Amazon queen who whispered “What are you doing here?”

  “Checkin’ on the poor thing.” Kanade carefully knelt beside them. “What is the prognosis, Your Highness?”

  Gra delicately stroked Star-bolt’s thick neck though she could probably easily choke her as easily with those huge arms, Ethan observed not for the first time as Storm-shadow nudged him and received a much needed pat too. “The old girl and I have been through worse battles. We will live to fight once again. The doctor Witches say it will be a week before she can fly out to battle. A Ghoul broke her wing before she was bitten.”

  “I didn’t know Ghouls could fly.” Ethan said softly.

  Gra shook her head of long brown hair. “That they cannot, but they can jump twenty feet straight up. We were too low and I was thrown off. She killed the Arachne before I could lop its head off. I had to fight four more half women-spiders before my sisters could harness her and get us out. If not for the Centaur mares’ aid I fear we wouldn’t have escaped. We owe them greatly.”

  “Is there anythin’ we can do?” Kanade asked, also stroking the sleeping mare.

  “We’ve yet to eat since they brought her in.” Storm-shadow hinted.

  “Then I’ll be back soon guys.” Ethan said. “Kanade, stay here.”

  “I’m not plannin’ on leavin’ till we must.” She said and used her soothing touch to calm Star-bolt further.

  Ethan left, planning on borrowing one of those food carts he saw several times before. Storm-shadow lay closer to his mate, but not in the way.

  “Your Highness, will you be attendin’ the tribunal in about two hours?”

  “No, Enchantress, but my husband did review your lover’s recording of Kira’s hunt. Said Ethan slew seven Incubi and an Elf master.”

  “He did. I watched the recordin’ closely. The Elf disappeared, but Ethan’s Drone took care of the cetin orchestratin’ the breedin’ program. But did your husband say what happened to the babies and pregnant mothers?”

  The queen nodded. “The foul spawn were safely delivered to Demon World, six of the women who were captured, delivered and the five others shed the young as according to the agreement of four month pregnancy. The eleven women had their minds cleansed of all that occurred and will be returned to their families once the healing spells make it as if they were never pregnant and raped to begin with.”

  “My angel will be glad to hear this.” Kanade said.

  They were quiet for the next half hour till Ethan arrived with the cart loaded with food. The aroma roused Star-bolt enough for her to be handfed by Gra before falling right back to sleep. Ethan was grateful for the news and also informed Gra that a half dozen Amazon subjects were outside and almost didn’t let him in. The Queen merely waved it off as if it were a trifle matter. The rest of the time was spent in silence, just being there for Star-bolt. Storm-shadow was truly grateful for such friends. Even Blake stopped by for a visit along with many of Storm-shadow’s many offspring. The Naga said he’d wait once the tribunal ended.

  The elevator rang again and they stepped out together onto the top floor where the Ogre woman from before sat this time in a string pink bikini and looked to have just come from a recent swim for she was still dripping and her pale hair was soaked. She let them pass and they made way to the tribunal room from before.

  Inside the room was a bit more packed and the long benches had dozens of individuals and small families, but no children oddly enough. At one end sat Kira and her parents, but Minna wasn’t there. Many, neither Ethan or Kanade recognized. Seated around the curved tribunal table was the Magistrate Ogre Morom, his soul mate Edda and Nymph priestess sitting on his lap. Chille the Pixie was filing her perfect nails in a larger form while Tattoo typed at a blinding speed on his computer. Merlin looked barely contained as his eyes darted mischievously while his wife’s calm and placid demeanor watched him like a hawk. Kiroq the tanned Gargoyle general seemed asleep while the Centaur husband and wife Collu and Mia were deep in hushed conversation while Crait the powerful and deadly Naga twirled a perfectly balanced dagger between his three wicked claws.

  Ethan chuckled as the leaders of the House entertained themselves. Kanade merely smiled and her heels clicked on the marble floor, but was muffled by the small crowd’s chatter. They moved over to Kira and Ethan blurted as he met tired green eyes. “Yikes, Kira, did you get any sleep? You look like shit.”

  Kanade swatted him with a wing and it pulled small smiles from the family.

  “Not really.” The Witch admitted and hunched her shoulders. “Do I really look that bad?”

  “Not as dolled up as usual, but not like you’re slumming it.”

  “Ethan, stop that.” Kanade chastised.

  “No. It’s fine.” Kira said. “I usually tell him the same every morning. He gets so little sleep as it is and was a weak running joke I teased him with.” Kanade went “Oh.” as Kira continued. “I tried sleeping, but those Incubi really rattled me. The loss of control… the helplessness… I couldn’t get over it and every time I close my eyes I see their cruel beauty and remember those dark promises. I now understand why hunting them is so dangerous for women.”

  Just then the door opened and Odin and Pegasus walked in side by side, causing the room to hush. The greatest steed in Greek mythology’s brilliant blue eyes scanned the room and said “Queen Gra is tending to her wounds and that of my offspring’s mate. We shall begin immediately. Tattoo, what is the first order of bus
iness?”

  Tattoo grabbed the topmost folder that was stacked by his computer while Odin and Pegasus took a seat. “Kira Penbrooke, stand before us.”

  “We’re right here, Love.” Her father said as she stood and squeezed his hand.

  Kira wore a long, simple black dress that wasn’t as revealing as what she usually puts on, but she still wore heels that lightly echoed in the room and stopped before the assembled leaders, locked her shaking hands together in front and held her breath. Her green eyes watched as the folder passed from Tattoo to Odin who opened it and his lone, deep blue eye locked her in place. “Kira, your hunt footage was reviewed by Chillie, Edda and Morom. Their unanimous decision is this. First, your locating traps during the Incubi hunt were well done and disarmed adequately. Your short preparation time was well spent and use of your spelled sunglasses in conjunction with scent removal potion was a great plan. Unfortunately it was in vain for you were hypnotized and lost in their influence, not killing even one and almost ended up as a breeder.” Kira’s heart dropped into her stomach and she paled even further. “It was your supervisor who saved you from such fate.” Odin sat the folder down. “But the three leaders agree that you did your best and showed heartfelt remorse and have decided, as do I, that your punishment for your crimes is complete and fulfilled.” Kira sighed and then gasped as Odin turned his eye to ask “Ethan, do you and Kanade agree with the tribunal’s decision?”

  Kanade answered for them both. “We do.”

  “Then, Kira Penbrooke, the matter is settled. Dress will still observe you for the next five years, but if you do not shape up during this probation timeframe, worse punishments will await. This will be your only warning. Should you ever do something like this again, exile will be all you can hope for.”

  The promise hung in the air as she said “It will never happen again.”

  “Then you are dismissed. Tattoo, what’s next, Lad?”

  Kira’s parents along with Ethan and Kanade got up to leave.

  They stopped when hearing “Ethan, you cannot leave yet.”

  Kanade and he tensed, but turned as all eyes turned to them at the doors. “What for? What did I do wrong now?”

  Tattoo said “For clarification. Stand before us.”

  Slowly he moved forward, Kanade stood rooted in place, like Kira and her parents by the door. The heavily inked paraplegic said “It was brought to my attention that you openly told Kira during the hunt you would disobey a direct order, even without something unexpected which you would be allowed to intervene on. Is this correct?” All eyes were glued to him.

  “I did.” Ethan straightened and people could see he was beginning to sweat.

  “And don’t you find that to be insubordination or do you think yourself above us like Celestia? Yes, all know you indeed are powerful, but does that give you a superiority complex?”

  None expected him to chuckle. None saw it, but behind Odin’s thick blonde beard, he too smiled. “Hardly.” Ethan shook his head and turned to the Nymph sitting on the Ogre’s lap. “Magistrate Morom,” The powerfully muscled and highly intelligent blue skinned man’s dark yellow eyes were neutral. “I know you brought this up and I don’t blame you. In fact that rule is outdated and wrong. I know I’m a toddler next to all of you, but I can’t just stand by or follow a rule of noninterference as a comrade is in danger. Why do you think I already died once? Yes I’m awkward and geeky, but if it was Edda who did what Kira had, wouldn’t you want me to save her or let her be slave and raped by an Incubus?” The brightly green haired Nymph blanched and looked over her shoulder at her husband. “I would and will always disobey that order. If it’s wrong I won’t do it, nor will I stand by and bite my tongue. Ask yourself this, Magistrate, if you were taken advantage of, would you be able to look in the priestess’s eyes knowing the one who wronged you was killed or worse, turned into an Incubus breeding machine? Priestess’s, as his wife, even if you were mad, would you wish such a fate on Kira if she did that to your soul mate?”

  Odin secretly mumbled. “The lad has finally grown a pair.”

  Pegasus nodded. “For certain.”

  Edda and Morom locked eyes before she raised an alabaster hand. “Your point has been made, Fire-thrower.” The Nymph said. “In fact, you misunderstand. Actually my husband was testing your morals while the other leaders merely went with it. Your companion, Prince Storm-shadow, also knew this was false, but was forbidden from mentioning it. You would have been tested of your morals by Blake, your master, when he believed you were ready for joining hunts. Morom merely took advantage of your willingness to be a supervisor. Punishing hunts are normally more for severe crimes that greatly injure or kill and are rather a rare occurrence. What Kira Penbrooke did was abhorrent of such treatment, we were all surprised by what happened.”

  “A test?” Ethan stood dumbfounded.

  “Aye, Lad.” Odin said. “Fate has his tests, so do we. You surprised us yesterday, volunteering. It was time anyway to see how you’d function. I haven’t seen Kira’s hunt yet, but from what I’ve been told, you did well, Lad. You will keep your mouth sealed of what we speak of now, for the squad leaders you see in this room know the truth.” Now Ethan truly looked at everyone, realizing they were all warriors. “This is the true reason I had Dress inform you to be here today. Each individual you see here is an elite squad leader of B, A and S class. It isn’t often tasked for hunts befitting punishment, but each one of them know that sometimes some rules are wrong and are made to be broken. Few outside this room truly know about a supervisor’s sacred duty… To bring back home as many as possible no matter the cost. We all have to live with impossible decisions, Lad. By disregarding Morom’s order you proved you can be trusted for supervisors do what must be done to keep everyone alive. If you had stood by and let Kira be killed, the matter would be settled and this conversation would never have happened. You’d be on your way to follow, not lead a squad. Even if this unknown Elf master hadn’t shown up this council and these supervisors know you would have followed through. Your reputation precedes you, Lad.” Silence filled the room as the immortal Viking took a breath. “Until Blake says you are ready for combat I will not allow you to leave again, but when he does I would like to offer you a place as an S Class squad leader. You will be given a team of your choosing mostly, but should Tattoo or I send you a request to lead another you will comply. What do you say, Lad?”

  “For starters I’m not leadership material.” Ethan spoke instantly.

  Princess Chillie no longer fussed with her fingernails as she said aloud “What I witnessed of the hunt shows otherwise.” Her green skin almost shimmered like Edda’s hair. “Ethan, you killed seven Incubi without blinking and supposedly vanquished a demon master with a Drone before you turned off the device. You asked your subordinate questions how she would do things, showed patience by observing the prey, refused to kill babies, even demonic ones who will likely grow to one day become a threat. Even if you did not have immense potential, your mindset is worthy of leadership. Guide without force is the role of a worthy leader. To follow willingly rather than slave is the true virtue of a person in charge.” Dark purple irises shone as they turned towards the door. “Miss Penbrooke, before your capture, tell the assembled if you would ever deny following Mr. Volorum into battle if asked.”

  Kira could only nod.

  “Enchantress Kanade, deny to him and us if he is not marked a leader.”

  “You know I cannot lie.” Kanade said clearly. “My beloved is as you say. It is why I’m so proud to have him.”

  Eyes returned to an embarrassed Ethan. He swallowed to ask “May I at least think about it?”

  Odin looked at all the members before saying “You may, Lad. Blake is aware of this meeting. You may tell him when you come to an answer, or Dress.”

  “Is that all?” Ethan hoped.

  “One moment.” Collu, the ten foot tall Centaur man knotted with muscle said. The Centaur, like most other males had a sleek brown co
at while females were beautiful white. “I would like to ask how you knew you killed this Elf master. Edda told me it vanished before you sent this Drone to track it down.”

  “As would I.” Kiroq the Gargoyle general grunted as he scratched his muzzle.

  “I knew this would happen.” Ethan whispered to himself. “We can do a test, but I’ll need your help, Princess.”

  The Pixie blinked before asking “My help?”

  “Yes, you can teleport things around like an Elf. All I need is something that will act as a target. Just know it’ll be destroyed.” Ethan said.

  Odin stood and went to Pegasus’ saddle and dug through a pocket before saying “Catch, Lad.”

  Working so long under Blake’s many assaults improved Ethan’s reflexes as he snatched an empty silver flask out of the air. Ethan studied it before Chillie saw him nod and clapped. Both she and the flask in his grasp vanished. He said “Give her a moment since I don’t know where she went… ok.” Tingling turned painful as his hand went crimson before a contained fireball appeared and he threw it straight up. Instead it shot at an angle through the floor. He said “I’ll tell you when I feel it. Yesterday it took a few minutes. My drone will only get faster the longer its after the target. Odin, hope the flask wasn’t important?”

  The Viking waved it off. “We will wait in silence. If this is true and all you need is an image, Lad, you can shoot Drones at many powerful demons who must be put down without going anywhere.”

  Ethan returned to Kanade’s side and she put her hands on his broad shoulders. Minutes later Ethan felt the momentary sting in the back of his neck. “It hit.”

  Three seconds later Chillie appeared behind her seat. “It is done. The flask is a puddle of metal now.”

  Mia, Collu’s mate stood. “And where did you go?”

  “Gibson Desert in the heart of Australia. None were around for hundreds of kilometers.” Callie turned her eyes fully on the Elemental in awe. “One moment it was there and then a flash and then molten silver too hot to collect at the moment.”

  “So fast?” Even Odin was in awe of such a feat. “That means the Drone shot through the planet to destroy it. Chillie, he felt it moments before you returned. This is indeed impressive… Tattoo…”

  “Already on it!” the man typed away rapidly and suddenly spun the keyboard around. “Ethan, come here and send your Drone after this man.”

  He and Kanade approached while Kira’s parents ushered their daughter out. Ethan listened to all the chatter of excitement fill the room. It silenced immediately as Odin slammed the butt of Gungnir on the ground. Attention returned to the Elemental. Tattoo said “This is Michael Zing a terrible necromancer who was once an Order Wizard, turned dark.”

  “I know the Chap!” Merlin proudly said with a maddening grin. “Turned me into a woman for a day once, but I robbed him of his manhood forever. He’s got to squat like a woman now.”

  “And he’s made it his mission to use our dead as mindless zombies. Ethan, this necromancer has killed six hundred and eleven reported after defecting to Chaos a half century ago and commands a thousand Goblins, a score of Elves and even two dragons. Worse yet, our spies say he’d been consuming demon blood to turn himself into one and increase his power further. You have no idea how dangerous a Wizard turned necromancer who wants to become a demon is… especially with the minions he’s got under command.” Tattoo pointed to a heavily scarred image of a gaunt man. The computer listed all his information, but this man’s deranged look made Merlin seem the picture of sanity in comparison.

  With the necromancer’s image in mind, Ethan held up his hand and focused for a Drone. “Huh?” he said and looked at his hand that didn’t change even slightly. Ethan growled and Kiroq’s ears perked. He tried forcing it so much his face turned red. To the others he panted “It’s not working.”

  “Perhaps” Morgane Le Fay calmly ended the silence. “the image is not specific enough for his ability to activate. Likely we have skipped a condition. It will be easy enough to learn. Dress, Dear?”

  Dressor looked curiously at her from the wall by the door that led to holding cells. “What ya need, Babe?” he smiled.

  “Please shoot one of my slips into our bedroom. Tattoo, access the webcam to my room.” Moments later the computer screen showed a gigantic room, easily five times as large as Ethan’s and filled with books and everything imaginable in a Witch and Wizard’s room. The image was stationary, but it showed a white slip a woman wears under a dress in the middle of the floor. “Go ahead Ethan, try again.”

  He did and released pent up breath in one heave. “No good.” Chillie though clapped her hands and brought the fabric out. This time a Drone easily appeared.

  Morgane looked to Odin. “It seems I’m correct. Ethan must truly see to use this new weapon physically. Images won’t fulfill his desire, unless he targets the actual item. I believe we just discovered the one limitation to the Drone.” The fireball vanished.

  Odin sighed. “Too bad. Can’t be helped then. Worth a try.” The singular blue eye turned. “Lad, keep progressing. We really need you out there.”

  “I can only promise to do my best, Odin.”

  “That is all I can expect of anyone.”

  Ethan and Kanade stepped out while the room continued a meeting. Ethan slid down the wall with a groan.”What is the matter, Ethan?” Kanade fussed.

  “Like I don’t have enough roles?” His grey eyes met her gold. “For about six hours I’m run ragged by Blake, for another six I’m working with Celestia. I get maybe five hours sleep a night and it’s so hard to sleep when I’m so sore and now they want me to lead hunts as a damn S Class… which can take an hour or weeks depending on the mission. I know what crisis’s they deal with.”

  Her tender hand cupped his cheek. “Never again will you have trouble sleepin’ alone again. You forget who your wife is now. I will ease your burden. I will not allow you to fail now when you’ve come so very far in so short a time.”

  Straight white teeth barely showed in his smile. “Wife? Yeah, I guess I do forget. In your culture we’re already married. At least I married up.”

  “As did I.” She couldn’t lie. “Blake will be waitin’. Exercise seems to let you forget the stresses of each day.”

  “Alright.” He stood and she claimed his hand and walked away. “But sex was better than I dreamed.” She swatted him before giggling.

  Waiting beneath the shade of a tree lounged Blake with his long, articulating tail caressing the grass over someone’s underground home. The ancient lizard-man seemed completely at ease and harmless for once, but Ethan knew Blake was anything but harmless. Even without being a Blademaster, any Naga could disembowel anyone with their deadly claws. Not for the first time Ethan wondered just how many demons have fallen before this deadly reptile.

  Hearing footsteps, Blake scratched white scales at his chest and even without opening his eyes said “So how did the meeting go, Pupil?”

  “How did you know it was me, Blake?”

  Speckled brownish golden slit eyes like a crocodile opened and turned in their direction. “Because I’ve honed my senses to recognize many who come by me. Everyone has a unique sound in how they move, Ethan. After our first week I learned your movements by sound. And your mate gave you away too.” Blake smiled with his short, pointed teeth.

  “How so?” Kanade asked, her cheeks coloring some.

  “Your wings, they rustle against you. Spirit Guides can speak, but do not make sound without a mortal body. So, did you accept Odin’s offer?”

  “Not yet. I’ve got enough on my plate already. Between you, Celestia, Storm and now learning I’ve now have a soul mate… well it’s a bit much.” Ethan admitted to the relaxed Naga.

  “I watched the recording you sent me.” Blake crossed his arms while watching Ethan unstring his boots, pausing momentarily at this abrupt change in conversation. “Quite enlightening, as was Odin’s letter to me of you being offered a role as an elite squad lea
der. I must say you have begun to impress me, Ethan. A five mile trek through thick brush would have had you doubled over when you first arrived, but you controlled your breathing rather well. Your movement requires more help, but towards the end you did a fair job sneaking up. The demons didn’t have a chance and your reaction to destroy the arrow aimed at your heart was superb.” Blake now began to stand. “The six hours of training will be changed.”

  Suspiciously Ethan asked while stuffing a sock in a boot “Why?”

  “Because this past month of running has forced you to shed pounds of fat while weapons training increased your reaction time to danger. We are now going to move on to new areas that need improvement. Instead of six hours of training, I’m reducing it to four. From eight till noon from today onwards. We shall begin with Escape and Evade.” The Naga stood in a fluid move that was humanly improbable. “Instead of two rounds around the castle, we’ll do one, but this time you need to stay away from me at all costs. Retreat is just as important as victory. Living to fight again is important to those waiting back home. Recently Chaos is gaining the upper hand and retreating is getting harder. Many warriors are dying because they don’t know when or how to successfully flee. More than I care to say of my many hatchlings have died because of stubbornness. I’ve seen good friends never return. Should a Pixie not be there to escape or get eaten, you need to know how to get away on your own, especially without your flames. You cannot use fire indefinitely and will get tired like the rest of us…”

  “Really? I haven’t got tired yet.”

  This put Blake up short. “Truly?”

  “Elementals, fire especially,” Kanade said. “do not tire like casters. A Wizard may be able to conjure a flame for an hour or two, but I can attest Ethan uses flames continuously. Physically he may tire, but his mastery over heat has few limitations, tirin’ not being one of them.”

  “And how do I have proof of such a claim?”

  Emboldened, Kanade sat her hand on Ethan’s shoulder. Since none were nearby to hear she said “Last night we became of one body and the whole time we were joined, he was quite literally on fire that surrounded us. He was ablaze for the entire night and the flames weren’t weakened even slightly. Have you ever met Cyllia, the Wind Elemental from the Forty Third House? She can summon a storm indefinitely if she wanted… Ethan is her superior.”

  “Can’t say I’ve had the pleasure, but this information is welcome. Nevertheless, Ethan, get running. These fundamentals must be instilled. You have one minute to start… and no powers.”

  Ethan was already charging away.

  In no time at all, Blake caught up and tackled him to the ground. “Dead!” The Naga said. “Throw me off like I showed.” Ethan drew his legs up, grabbed the side of Blake’s scaly neck, planted his leading-foot on the ground with his left knee at Blake’s thick ribs, growled and twisted in a powerful, full body twist which sent the Naga up and over him. Blake’s great weight was used against him as he found himself staring at thickening clouds. “Well done!” Went to look, but already Ethan was gone. Blake grinned, always impressed with Ethan’s focus. He rolled, gathered his feet and shot forward again. The Naga noticed Ethan wasn’t running flat out as he had the past two days since Kanade arrived. Every dozen steps he’d glance over his shoulder, judging distance. Blake knew what he was doing and said more to himself “You’re learning. Running carelessly is how I got you so easily last time.” This next tackle was just as painful for Ethan, but he rolled with it and got up before Blake could pen him again.

  After ten more times being tackled or tripped, Ethan began to tire and the ground wasn’t soft, each landing taking more and more of a toll. Then he twisted an ankle and couldn’t put any weight on it. Teeth gritted, Ethan gasped and collapsed. “Hold still.” Blake knelt, looking just as dirty from the exchanges. Despite deadly claws, Blake’s touch was gentle, even though his ankle hurt. “Not broken or sprained. Just over extended. Another half inch and you might have required surgery. Not bad.” He pulled his hand back and pulled a cloth from a pocket to begin tightly wrapping the already swelling injury. “I’ll help you stand. You need to walk it off or the pain will only hinder you be seizing up.”

  Air sucked through grit teeth as he draped an arm over Blake’s shoulders. The feel of those bony scales were odd feeling, but supportive. Gently Ethan was forced to walk and listen so his ankle could continue to move properly “You did well, Ethan, all things considering. When we return to your mate we’ll work on falling properly.”

  “Falling properly?” He scoffed. “Isn’t that a bit of an oxymoron?”

  “Not at all. In fact I was surprised you lasted this long. I was intentionally aiming on your legs. If your prey cannot run, they are helpless. If you knew how to fall the right way you wouldn’t have just landed on the ball of your foot during a roll thereby hurting yourself. Your heel is stronger than the ball for a reason. If thrown, never extend your arms rigidly, they’ll break. The key is to not be rigid, as you are in many ways. There is a moment in every fight where you do not have the advantage. The key to not leaving it open is how to move. Never land how the opponent wants. Do you remember that hip-toss I had you practice?”

  “Yes.”

  “Use it on me right now. It won’t put too much pressure on that ankle.” A moment later Blake was flipped, but Ethan watched as instead of the Naga falling flat on his back, he hit on the side and rolled into a springing step which had him standing. “You see, I twisted my shoulder ever so slightly to land on my side whereas if I hit my back, the wind would have been knocked out my lungs.”

  “To get that proficient I’m going to need a lot of practice.” Ethan admitted.

  “Hence why you no longer need weapons practice.”

  “Wait… What?”

  Blake crossed his arms. “Ethan, did you seriously think a regular human could use a sword or staff with any real effect against a Goblin or other demon? Against another human you might succeed, but a demon? You would be as helpless as a mouse is to an owl. The only reason I’ve been teaching you how to handle a weapon is to show you how the enemy will come at you and how to react. You saw that one Incubus effortlessly holding that barbell that weighed more than you in one hand and Incubus are lesser demons. One swipe and you’d be pulped. My lessons were specific in teaching you how one will attack. All the pain you endured was to make your body react so pain would spur you to avoid more.”

  “So what you’re saying is all the fighting was pointless?” Ethan was dumbfounded by this.

  “Not pointless. Necessary.” Blake clarified. “Ethan, without my lessons you would have required four extra months of training, but you took just a month. It also gave me time to learn what I needed to teach.” He poked a claw in the center of Ethan’s sternum. “It takes years to master the sword, but your personality isn’t compatible with weapons. Your focus is greater than any I’ve seen in a human your age and that is saying something. It is your elders who can focus. Swordsmanship requires the ability to not focus, and flow like water. You focus on one thing, one target and won’t look away till its complete. You focus on utter relentlessness. When we fought you were better at self-defense and your fire is offensive. You have a knack at learning and taking things as they are, but do not mistake my words. You might not ever be a worthy swordsman or archer, but I believe you may be a hand to hand master. Should a demon get close and your fire prove ineffective, a sword will only be your undoing, but if you master hand to hand, you can get closer and survive. This month I’ve been deciding which martial art you would find most adept at learning. Due to your relentless focus on singular tasks it seems Krav Maga would suit you.”

  “What is Kra Ma-ga?”

  “Krav, you forgot the slight v sound. It is a self defense style that was created in the early nineteen hundreds that combine Boxing, Muay Thai, Jiu-jitsu and grappling. It is one of the more versatile unarmed styles you humans created to kill each other. It uses the natural reflexes for devastating resu
lts. It doesn’t have any flowery moves that require years to master. Its simpler than Karate and more effective from day to day situations we warriors must face. Now let’s keep going so we can get started.”

  “Blake, how many fighting styles do you know?” Ethan asked as he was helped to walk?”

  The Naga smiled without teeth. “All of them. I was the one who taught Samurai how to first use the sword, the first to invent the ancient Chinese martial arts over two thousand years ago. Back in those days I made a lot of it up. Humans were so gullible back then. If you ever visit the ancient temples you can see me in old paintings, though they exaggerated my profile as a dragon. Real dragons look like the medieval kind. Some old monks still remember that a snake man was who first taught their art to reach enlightenment. You wouldn’t believe how many places I’ve been and the students I’ve taught.”

  “If you’re so skilled, why aren’t you High Champion, like Crait?”

  Blake hissed a laugh. “Because he is my father and knows if we ever crossed swords, only one would walk away. He is stronger than I, but I’m faster. My mother would be sad as well. Besides I do not want to lead my kind and he is well suited to the task.”

  “Oh.” Ethan said, learning more today than in the past month of the Naga Blademaster.

  Kanade flew in a half hour later when the two were later than she expected, carrying Ethan’s shoes and Blake’s three swords. “What happened?” She touched down lightly, her wings folding up behind her. “You two were late. Ethan, your ankle.” She approached slowly.

  “One of the hazards of the task.” Ethan responded lightly.

  “That requires a proper wrap. I’ll return soon.” She sat their belongings down and took off.

  “Females.” Blake shook his head and hissed a chuckle. “Always think they know best… Usually they are correct. Don’t let them know I said that.”

  “Mum’s the word.” Ethan chuckled.

  “While we wait for your mate’s return. We shall meditate, but not on controlling your anger.” Blake helped Ethan sit in the grass. The Naga knelt before the human and took his usual meditative arrangement. “Ethan, do you believe the mind can do anything if trained properly?”

  “Truthfully? Before I died I would have said it with an absolute no. I thought all that stuff was fantasy hokum. Like all my comics. Something enjoyable, but untrue… now I’m not so sure. I always hoped the supernatural was real and now that I can make fire just by thinking about it, I’m a bit more open to possibilities.”

  “Good response.” Blake made a three knuckled fist. “It took me over a thousand years to take control of my mind rather than it rule me. In my four thousand years of life, Ethan, I’ve seen many unbelievable things. There was once this demon Titan who was an outcast of his kind for he wanted peace between Order and Chaos and it was he to taught me how to learn just how powerful the mind is. Usually it takes months for any being with regenerative abilities to re-grow a limb. He lost a leg in a fight and I saw it grow back in a week. The Tournikka ointment I have been supplying you is but a balm. A Witch can induce rapid healing by forcing the mind to rest, all but the part which heals the body thereby speeding the healing process. I’ve learned a way to manipulate my very own mind to heal even faster than magic and am willing to teach you these methods. Your intense focus will be a benefit for these mental exercises. When you broke my toe and burned my shoulder, didn’t you wonder how I was whole by the next day? Now you will learn. You will likely never reach my proficiency, but even being healed one day earlier is better than suffer another in pain.” Ethan listened to the method which seemed simple. Breathe deep and slow, focus only where it hurt by mentally picturing the whole of the body and willing the pain away.

  Kanade dropped in during this and broke Ethan’s concentration, but she wrapped a bandage tightly over the enflamed joint and also gave him some pain medicine that Blake approved of that was made of all natural ingredients and by a Nymph herbalist. In a few minutes it kicked in and allowed Ethan to spend an hour learning Blake’s lessons on mental healing.

  Then without going to the training area Blake spent the rest of their time together teaching Ethan the art of falling correctly in the soft grass. Krav Maga was skipped as it required more footwork than Ethan was able to manage on the ankle without worsening the damage. Blake started slowly throwing Ethan around as if he weighed little to nothing. Compared to Nagai’s strength, human would never compare. Nevertheless, Ethan experienced how to rotate just enough and roll to his feet. He was actually enjoying the lessons.

  Kanade though surprised them both as she requested Blake to throw her. The Naga was amiable to the idea and Ethan’s jaw dropped as no matter what Blake did, Kanade always landed on her feet. She was more graceful than a dancer and her wings the perfect counterbalance. One flap, one stretch and she would flip lazily and wear a smile the whole time. Even in heels she was infinitely more poised and inspiring than Ethan ever was. He was both jealous and insanely impressed. “Thank you, Blademaster.”

  “I should thank you, Enchantress. Being blessed with wings has given you great balance. Flying must make you a natural fighter.”

  “You know I cannot intentionally harm another.” She laughed.

  “Say that to my back.” Ethan joked and watched her flush.

  “I just held you tight. You moved and my nails were just there.”

  “We’ll see who’s right soon enough.” He vowed.

  “And that is my cue to leave.” Blake said. “Rest up Ethan. Until tomorrow.”

  “Thanks again, Master.” Ethan said while slightly limping over to Kanade.

  In the hall for lunch Floa leapt at Kanade after growing to a short woman’s size and wrapped her green arms around the Enchantress’s glittery neck. “You had sex!” The Pixie giggled ad smiled proudly. “So how was it?”

  “How could you tell?” Kanade asked as she bent down to put her friend on her feet.

  “The way you walk.” Floa giggled and slapped Ethan on the back, making him blush. “Gave it to her good by the looks of it, Ethan.” She spun back around. “Kanade, you move with more sway to your hips and are in a bit of pain. I remember my first time and could barely walk. You have that look.”

  “You’re hurt?” Ethan stood quickly with worry.

  “No much, My Love… and Floa, it was romantic and everythin’ I dreamed.”

  The cheerful Pixie took both of the Enchantress’s hands. “I’m so happy. And do you know the cure to end the pain?” Kanade tilted her head. “More sex of course. Trust me, once you chafe, it will no longer hurt again.”

  “Thank you for the update.” Ethan rumbled in mortification.

  “Oh,” Floa switched to a different mental channel. “and I heard about Kira. She got off well. Are you over it now?”

  “I’ve forgiven her if that is what you are askin’.” Kanade drawled. “It’s over and I’m lookin’ forward to the future.” She smiled in Ethan’s direction. “Floa, I hope you won’t be mad if you don’t see us often.”

  “Hardly!” Floa slapped Kanade’s arm playfully. “When I find my soul mate I plan on not seeing anyone and holing up alone for months. And Kanade?”

  “…Yes?” She hesitated at Floa’s new tone.

  “I’m looking forward to seeing the babies you two will have. Your kind rarely has children and I expect to see them soon.”

  “A little too early to think about children I think.” Ethan cut in when Kanade turned beet red and took a drink of water. “If it happens it happens, but right now we should enjoy each other. All I know is Kanade will be a great mother one day and she will make me a father. But getting there will take practice.”

  “That’s the spirit, Kiddo! Now you two better get busy perfecting.” Next thing they see is Floa bringing her hands together.

  Next thing they know is they stood in their room, but all the flower petals were swept up and a large food basket waited on the coffee table.

  “Did she just?” Ethan asked
.

  Kanade looked around and smiled. “That she did. Broke in and cleaned the place.” She plucked a card off the table and it made her laugh. “It says ‘Girlfriend, I cleaned this room for you and I had better not see you for awhile. I’ll send food for the next week. It isn’t right soul mates do other things when they need to be joined in the groin. This is my honeymoon gift. Love you, Girl! P.S. Make me proud.”

  “What is with her and babies?” He asked.

  “A Pixie thing.” Kanade opened the care package to find an assortment of food. “You know she has had over seven hundred children. Unfortunately half were killed in combat or stung by a bug. All Pixies can do are manipulate space and open gateways. Like me, they cannot do serious harm, but because they are so small most of the time they are easily eaten whole or demon bugs poison them… the bugs are the Pixies natural enemy. Yes they can have many children, but physically they are weak and fall prey faster than any race in Order. Floa in particular loves babies. She was there when I hatched and helped raise me.”

  “But I thought it’s been centuries since she’s been on earth and you also said she took you camping when you were in the Nineteenth House.”

  “True on both, but she didn’t take mortal form at the time.” She sat the food down and asked “Ethan, is was you said true…” She blushed. “That I would be a good mother? We’ve never spoken, but are you open to children?”

  “Of course. Just know I’ll be scared I’ll make a mistake. Any child with you will prove our love made something pure and good in this harsh and ugly world.”

  “Oh I’ll be scared too.” Kanade admitted. “Even my kind doesn’t have a manual for children. Fate hides those secrets. And I would gladly lay a thousand eggs to show the world my bliss.”

  “Speaking of. How many do you lay?”

  “Usually one snow white egg, but rarely are their twins laid. Our egg will be slightly smaller than a football, but shaped like a birds. It will take about a year to hatch and we’ll be parents…” She looked him in the eye. “Would you like to get in some practice? We both require a shower. Want to do as before?”

  The twinkle in his eye was all the warning she got before making love under cascading hot water and wrapped in her lover’s embrace.

  Kanade lay naked and fully satisfied in her sleep as the castle rang in time for supper. She was content with a pleased smile on the bed, but Ethan found himself full of energy and decided that although he would rather spend time with her and go for another round, others were fighting and dying. Proper weapons would decide many outcomes and he needed to get them out.

  Ethan snuck out of bed, grabbed his safety glasses and new earplugs. He stepped out, putting them on and could hear Celestia shuffling around downstairs. He found her preparing for another nights work and she acknowledged him with a stiff nod. Together they got back to work, creating the very best demon slaying weapons in the world.

  After another night of hard work he returned to his room where Kanade was awake, nakedly enchanting the knife from the morning, offered a smile, finished and rocked his world again before they fell asleep.