From the Embers (The Born in Flames Trilogy) (4 page)

Astral paused just outside his door, partially sliding it open. “Sadly, yes. We can only hope that Iliana had intended for all of this to happen.” There was something in his words and in his eyes that told me he held something back. He always wore a solemn look when he kept information I should know to himself.

“What do you mean? What aren’t you telling me?”

He forced a smile. The same smile he always used when he wasn’t going to explain any further. “Rest up, Little Flame. There will be plenty of time to discuss the matter. I’m sure Fenn has enough to share with you.”

I frowned at his back as he slid the door shut behind him. Fenn didn’t hesitate to pull me into our room.

My shoulders slumped forward. “Of course he can’t just come out and say it. I feel so lost.”

Fenn lightly kissed the side of my head. “Don’t worry, I will fill you in.”

There was a cushioned mat in the far corner draped in silken sheets. At the other end of the tiny room stood a small dresser with an oil lantern as the only source of light. I walked over to the dresser, looking for something a little more comfortable to wear. My options were limited to a pink or red Kimono. I opted for the red.

I shifted back into my human form and shrugged off the armor, forgetting about Fenn standing there, gawking at me. I slid the silken material on, shuddering from the luxurious feel of it against my bare skin.

And then I felt Fenn’s warm breath against the back of my neck. He trailed soft kisses along my shoulders, spun me around and into his arms, and cradled my neck as his blue eyes devoured mine.

“You don’t know how much I have missed this, Rory. A year. A whole agonizing year I spent thinking I would never see or touch your beautiful face again. The seasons changed, our birthdays came and went.” He gently rubbed his thumbs over my cheeks and then across my lips. “Everyone swore that it was over. I told them it couldn’t be the end but the beginning. That you would come back to me. But after so much time had passed, I began to think…” he trailed off, kissing me to finish his sentence.

I leaned into him, kissing him with everything I had in my soul. I loved him more than I could ever love anything or anyone. His hands hungrily gripped my back as he crushed me against him and then lifted me off the floor. In two strides he laid me gently onto the mat and cuddled up next to me, brushing the hair from my face.

“I missed the softness of your hair,” he confessed, twirling his fingers through my hair while staring into my eyes.

“I’m here now,” I said distractedly, wondering why he had stopped kissing me. All I could see were his lips, desperately wanting them to resume their pleasing torture.

A smug grin tugged at the left side of his mouth. “What are you thinking about?”

I scrunched my face at him, huffing as I propped up on an elbow. “Seriously?” My eyes dropped to his lips. “I was thinking about kissing you, but know I’m thinking about your ginormous muscles, Fenn. Or should I call you Hulk?”

He looked down at his bicep and flexed. “They are pretty ginormous, right? Zane came in handy as a workout buddy.” I lightly punched his chest. He chuckled, shaking his head. “Rory, Astral is in the next room. And he is in here.” He pointed to my forehead.

My face reddened seven shades of scarlet as I tossed his hand away from my face. “No, he’s not.” I sighed and lay back down, staring at the painted dragons on the ceiling, trying to stop the tingling feelings that sparked along my skin from his touch.

He kissed my cheek. “I love you.” His tone was serious and filled with longing. “You are my everything.” I turned my face to his. He planted a long, deep kiss on my lips, letting his hands roam down my sides. I reached my hand up to his hair, weaving my fingers through its thickness and rolled him over, pinning him to the bed.

I bit my lip coyly, smiling down at him. “I thought we weren’t going to do this,” I teased, running my hands over his smooth muscles. My hair fell in his face. He reached up, using his fingers to hold it back. He looked playfully distraught as our bodies rested against each other.

He flipped me back over, pinning me underneath him and holding my hands above my head. A spark of lust shot through me. I loved the feel of his body on mine.

His lips were close to mine. “We’re not, although I would love nothing more than to explore what’s under that Kimono.” He dragged a slow, teasing finger along the neckline. My skin was on fire as a breath caught in my throat.

I was more than ready and willing, but with a heavy sigh, he stopped, letting my hands go. He sat back against the wall with his knees bent in front of him.

I couldn’t think or see straight. All I wanted was him. I waited, wondering what would happen if I just tackled him.

“I should probably tell you a few things, like Astral suggested.” His crooked grin peeked out as he avoided my eyes. Why was he changing the subject now?

I cursed Astral. “Fine.” I huffed and plunged my hands through my hair. “Like what?” I sat up, pulling the Kimono tighter around me.

“I’ll start with the changes that you probably aren’t aware of. For starters, shortly after you disappeared, word spread quickly about Zordon’s reign in the Hall of Knowledge. All of the Outlaws in the Swamp have moved to the Pyre Lyceum. It’s now central headquarters for all things evil. And to make matters worse, they have banded together to destroy both realms. Even the Polar Magium joined his side. As it stands, all Magiums are basically split down the middle. Zordon and his followers against the last of the Draconta, the Orient, and the Nymph.

“That’s why we haven’t fought back. We haven’t had the manpower. It has taken all of our strength just to remain safe here. Since you left, we have been attacked twice by factions outside of the Orient. So far, it has been nearly impossible to take action against him, especially in Mily’s realm.”

His eyes dropped to his hands twirling nervously against his knees.

I scooted closer to him. “Do you think what Kaede said about the elixir is true? Maybe that’s what Iliana meant about there being another way for me to destroy Zordon. But she said something about you…third of three, so that couldn’t be the answer…” I broke off in thought.

I didn’t want to tell him that if I didn’t figure out what she was talking about, the chance of me killing Zordon without dying myself was very slim. The very thought made my stomach turn sour.

He stretched his legs out, crossing his arms over his chest. “I wouldn’t hold my breath, Rory. You saw how the Priests were. And why would they have an elixir like that? How would they have made it?”

“They do experiment heavily,” I pointed out.

“I think we should go with what Kaede suggested and focus our intent on the Pyre Lyceum.” He looked at me, his blue eyes narrowed. “Destroying the Pyre Lyceum would throw a wrench in Zordon’s plans. It would stop the attacks on all of those who have yet to be recruited into our army.”

Put like that, it did sound like the best idea for now. One step at a time.

“Plus, it would probably take away the manpower he has that helps him with his creations.”

I almost didn’t want to ask. “Creations?”

His face grew somber. “It’s just a rumor since we don’t really have any sources, but supposedly he is hauling dead bodies to the Swamp. We don’t exactly know why, but we’ve heard it is to create an army.” He leveled his gaze at me. “An army that can’t be killed.”

“Zombies?” I couldn’t help the cynical laughter that bubbled out of me.

He leveled his gaze on me. “I’m serious, Rory. It makes sense. Why else would he want Na’shir? It’s what Necros do—they summon the dead…use death as their weapon.”

I perked my brows at him and sort of snorted. “A zombie army? Really?”

He chuckled. “Okay, when you put it like that.” He shook his head, his laughter dying off. “I don’t know. I doubt it would be like what you’re thinking. Like from the movies back home. From what I’ve read about the Necromancers, the dead they raise can think for themselves but are bound to serve their creator.”

I swallowed hard. “That would surely change things.”

“Exactly. But the good thing is, there are some Necros left who aren’t following Zordon. We just have to figure out a way to bring them to our side.”

My thoughts touched on Irisi. I hoped that she was okay. She would be a wonderful ally to have. “We have to find Irisi. If we save her, maybe it would keep Na’shir from joining Zordon.”

His grin grew devilish. “I love it when we’re in sync. That’s exactly what I’ve been telling Kaede. He never wanted to make a move, but you heard him today. If the attack on the Pyre Lyceum is successful, then we might have a chance to safe her. If she’s being held there.”

A knock lightly pattered on the papered door. Fenn got up and I quickly followed suit, tying the Kimono tightly around my waist. He slid the door open, but I couldn’t see past his large form. I could barely make out the other person telling him that the festivities to celebrate our departure would begin in two hours.

I tapped on Fenn’s shoulder and patiently waited for him to move so I could see. When he turned, my jaw dropped.

Chapter 3

A Farewell Shindig

“HEY, ADAM, WHAT’S UP?” FENN said, shaking the boys hand.

Adam looked up at me, smiling. “Long time, no see,” he said, bowing and then smiling like he knew me. Like he had just let me in on a big secret. “I wanted to stop in and personally greet you. You remember me, right?”

After I picked my jaw up from the floor, it took me a moment to find my tongue and to place his face. I did know him, but for the life of me I couldn’t remember his name. Not until he pulled a beanie out from his pocket and slid it on his head.

A flash flood of memories broke through my mind. “You’re the guy from the tour I took with Lexi a couple years back in the other realm,” I stated, pointing my finger at him.

“Guilty as charged,” he said, chuckling. He took the beanie off and ran his hand along the spiked edges of his hair.

“Why were you over there?” I shook my head in disbelief, trying to grasp the fact that he was here in front of me.

“I was sent over with Alexis at my father’s request. It was a part of the agreement in return for choosing to align with the Draconta instead of Zordon. He wanted me to ensure you made it back, though you and Alexis seemed to have kept everything under control.” His slanted eyes twinkled with amusement.

No wonder he had stared at us with an almost knowing expression the day that Zane had attacked us in the ruins. “You knew what happened at the ruins, didn’t you?”

He bashfully looked down at his toes. “I was going to jump in and help, but it was over before I had the chance. Alexis’ memory had been wiped so she didn’t even know I could help.”

I couldn’t stop staring at him, but somehow I managed to keep my jaw from hanging open in shock. Unbelievable. “I guess you never can tell who is really who,” I muttered under my breath. “So, umm, what have you been up to?”

He scratched nervously along his jawline. He seemed thrown off by my question. “Me…umm…you know, the usual. After you opened the portal to return, I made my way back here where I’ve been training and fighting alongside my father, preparing for the day when we can finally overthrow Zordon.”

I noticed a fresh scar under his left eye. Against his cinnamon-colored skin, its pink hue streaked across his face from his nose to his ear.

I pointed to it. “What happened?”

His hand automatically reached up to his face, his finger tracing the scar’s outline. “Oh, this? It happened during the war at the Obsidian Chasm. We were out there for almost three days fighting against Zordon’s army. The first hour we pretended to be on his side, even going as far as rushing into battle, but once he unleashed the Shadows and the Dark Saar, we turned, having the advantage of surprise.”

“He’s right,” Fenn agreed, a slight bitterness coating his tone. “Adam’s dad is Kaede.”

I snort-laughed, holding my hand up in apology. “But of course,” I rushed out, “of course you would be his son.” I know I sounded sarcastic, but I couldn’t help it. It was just too fitting...too coincidental. It seemed every part of my life had someone from this realm involved in it, and most of them were hidden in plain sight.

Adam scratched his head, one of his brows perked in curiosity. “Well, it’s good to see you again, Aurora. See you at the party.”

I waited until he made it to the end of the hall, and then looked at Fenn. “There’s never a dull moment,” I said, pulling him back into our room and sliding the door shut behind me. I walked over to the dresser, suddenly feeling insecure inside the Kimono. I conjured a comfortable pair of cotton pants and a white racerback tank top to wear until the party. I hadn’t even thought about what I was going to wear.

“Not only is Adam skilled in the air element, but he is also an Arch Mage’s son—” He stopped mid-sentence, an incredulous look swirling in his eyes. “Like me…” I guess the revelation had just dawned on him. He sat on the bed, reaching his hand out for me to follow. “You know,” he began, pulling me into him, “I’ve recently mastered the air element.” His raised eyebrows fished for a compliment.

“Oh, yeah? Good job.” I stealthily grabbed a pillow and started beating him with it. We both laughed. “Must have been nice to have had all that time on your hands.” I couldn’t help it.

He dropped his pillow. “Oh, come on. You are like the queen of fire. Don’t even pull that.”

I sighed, letting my pillow rest on the bed. “You’re right. I just get stuck in the unfairness of it all sometimes. Stuck on the fact that all of this was preplanned, and I am being tugged along for the ride. I’m trying my best to be the Progeny, but…”

“You’re doing a good job, Rory. You’ve done more than most could have, and most importantly, you haven’t backed out. I believe in you, so stop pouting.”

I pecked his lips with a quick kiss, ruffling his hair. “I have always wondered why Adam showed up right after Zane attacked us at the altar that day. I still can’t believe it.”

“He’s a cool dude for sure. He’s been really helpful and kind despite my lack of title.”

“People actually care about that?”

“Unfortunately, yes. Here, everyone is introduced with their ranking first and then their name. I’m always introduced as just plain Fenn. Adam’s the son of an Arch Mage so he isn’t expected to converse with those of lower ranking, those like me, but he does anyway.” He leaned back with a heavy sigh.

“Who cares in the long run, Fenn? It’s not like there’s much we can do about it. Especially now. There probably isn’t even a Counsel left with Zordon running the show.”

“Still…it would have been nice,” he admitted quietly. “I think I would feel more like my kind.”

I laid down next to him, tracing the outlines of his chiseled face and soft lips. I avoided the family crest that rested on his rib cage. I knew how much he hated it. It was the same crest Zordon’s army wore proudly.

“When everything is restored, maybe then we can try for a title again.”

“For sure.” He started to yawn.

I rested my head against his chest and listened to the soft sounds of his heartbeat. “What do you think will happen at this celebration? Anything I should prepare myself for? If I’m going to be in front of a lot of people, I really don’t want to make a fool of myself.” As usual, my nerves were beginning to pick away at my ever-disappearing confidence.

He chuckled, rubbing his chin against my head.

“What?” I asked wearily, looking up at him.

His face grew sinister and serious. “They have this initiation thing that they do. A sort of test to see if you are strong enough to be one of them. It requires extreme discipline and confidence.” I felt myself gulping for air. He looked out the window, nothing more coming from his lips.

“And?”

A confident grin pulled at his lips. “Oh…you’ll see.”

I punched him hard in the arm. “Are you kidding me?”

The laughter ceased. He glowered at me. “Ow!” he said slowly, rubbing his arm.

“Well?”

“I was just kidding, Rory. Sheesh. I don’t think they do anything crazy. You heard Kaede, it’s just a celebration of your return.”

“I don’t think we should really be celebrating with all the destruction happening,” I said.

He looked at me. “It’s about giving hope, Rory. We haven’t really had anything to celebrate. It’s been a year of struggles and deaths. I think having this celebration will help reiterate the hope you bring.”

“I hope I can live up to their standards,” I replied, looking away from his persuading mouth. “I guess I should shower and get ready then. Point me in the right direction?”

“Sure.” His brows wriggled mischievously as dirty thoughts played out through his sparkling eyes.

AFTER A LONG SOAK IN a copper tub heated by coals, I was escorted to a fitting room. I probably conjured a hundred outfits, not finding a single one that felt worthy of my official introduction to the Orient Magium.

I tried to find Fenn, but he was nowhere to be found. One of the guards said he was helping Kaede and his wife with last minute details.

I wandered the hallways until I found the prayer room. Adam was there, and after answering why I wasn’t dressed, he took me to the one person who was trusted with all the clothing affairs for the Orient. Masami.

Her flawless face was soft and rounded. She didn’t look a day over sixteen though she said she was well over one hundred years old. Black, soft, wavy curls fell down her back, pinned away from her face by an ornate jewel-encrusted comb. Her round, blue eyes accentuated her rose-colored lips.

“This is lovely, Masami,” I said spinning once in the mirror. She had conjured a gown after a few minutes of discussing my likes and dislikes. She chose to stick with western style versus the traditional Kimono the Orient wore.

This was the first time I had ever worn a gown, and it was a bit overwhelming. I couldn’t believe how different I looked. The sleeveless, tea-length gown was emerald green, to match my eyes. A deep, vivid color started at the top and faded out into a sheer, cream color at the bottom. An assortment of pearls and diamonds covered me from my chest to my waist, catching the light from the fire in the room. Bunched up silk and tulle formed around my body from the waist down, flowing out into a swirling array of fabrics, completing the dress. I couldn’t keep my hands from running over the soft fabric.

Masami bowed elegantly and turned for the door, taking tiny steps. “Your shoes are here,” she said, pointing to the high-backed velvet chair that sat next to the sliding door. She had conjured a pair of heels covered in pearls and studs.

“I don’t think—” I began, but she had already slid the door shut. I took slow strides toward the chair, realizing this was probably the only time in my life I would be able to do this so I should enjoy every moment. In days to come, I would be setting out on a journey. A journey to meet the end of my fate. What if that journey didn’t bring me back to another celebration?

I inhaled deeply, pushing the thought out of my mind. I refused to think like that anymore, not with everyone depending on me.

I picked up the shoes and relaxed into the chair, inhaling the fresh-scented air. The heels rested on the lap of my dress, picking up the bits of light that tapered through the tiny squares of window.

I allowed myself to smile, excited and anxious for the party to start. When I exhaled, I leaned over, carefully sliding the heels on. The outfit was complete. My hair was pinned up with pearled clips into a messy, yet elegant bun. Curling strands of ruby red hair fell freely and framed my face.

I looked like an eloquent version of myself.

When I stepped into the hallway, Masami was waiting patiently, courtly bowing her head at me. She turned to the left and escorted me to the festivities.

“Is there anything I should prepare myself for?” I asked her, trying to adjust to the height and feel of the heels. I stumbled awkwardly behind her, praying I would be used to them by the time I made it to wherever we were going.

“No,” she said simply.

“What’s it like?”

She suddenly stopped. When she turned, her quaint face was puzzled.

“I mean, what is a normal celebration like?”

“Why do you ask so many questions, Progeny? Are you fearful?” She didn’t sound like she was condemning me, more like she was trying to figure me out.

“A little,” I said awkwardly. “I know I shouldn’t be, but I can’t help it. I worry. About everything, really.”

A soft smile spread across her painted lips. “Fear is an emotion—nothing more. Conquer it, and you can do anything you set your mind to. Let this celebration be your rebirth. The old you is back in that fitting room, still undecided on a gown for fear of looking silly. The new you is standing here, in this beautiful gown, breathing confidently and glowing with pride. You will be as my people are—humble and impartial to fear.”

I took a moment to digest her words. She was right. I needed to let go of my fears and face my future with nothing but confidence in myself. I would make my people believe in me again, and I would find a way to defeat Zordon without destroying myself in the process.

I had to.

I straightened my shoulders and smiled. “Tonight is my new beginning,” I said, willing myself to believe my own words. “Thank you, Masami.”

She bowed again and then turned to continue forward. She took me all the way to the corner of the entryway inside the Lyceum. I took in a huge breath.

“This is it,” she said as she turned to face me. “I must leave you now. Your escort will be here any minute.” I smiled and bowed, suppressing the tickling butterflies that pestered me. Eagerly, I peered around the corner, trying to see what was outside and jumped when a hand touched my shoulder.

“Wow,” Fenn said, stunned as I turned around. The fabric effortlessly twirled with my every move. He stared at me in disbelief, words forming and then dissolving before he had a chance to say them.

“You look dapper,” I said quickly, absentmindedly brushing off his cream-colored tuxedo. An emerald colored tulip was tucked neatly into the pocket of his jacket. My favorite flower.