Goddess Kindled, page 20
Leaning forward, and very serious.
“Is that how you came here?”
Not able to form words she nodded her head. She felt like her son was slipping away. She really had only herself to blame. Taking up Cora’s clues left behind, to complete her mission for her. Still refusing to give up, if Cora really did know her as well as she apparently did. Then possibly not only were clues left for her, then very likely for Rowan, and Caden as well. For she knew how much family meant to the three of them, and that included her. Her only reassurance was Knowing she had left clues, and the book for Rowan to find. Here’s hoping he finds them all, and puts it all together.
Their discussion ended after that, her stomach chose then to make itself known. By growling so loudly Aidan kept teasing her the rest of the night about a lion or a bear living inside her. He reminded her so much of Caden, and how their relationship was. She was really missing the banter shared between siblings. A gift so rarely treasured in her time. As darkness fell they all prepared for sleep, home for now was within the great hall for all of them. Each having a section created for themselves, only her, and Kieran would be sharing.
For as freeing as she felt in this world with the ability to just be herself, the weight on her shoulders seemed heavy. Missing her family, her resemblance to Neera, and the threat of her followers. Added to that there was a prophecy in the mix that if she had to guess was about her, and not Neera like was assumed. Deciphering it would take time, which apparently she would have plenty, if the dreaded groupies were dealt with.
Sitting on the makeshift double cot she let silent tears fall as she twisted her hands in her lap. It was like moving so far forward only to travel further backwards. How was she going to deal with all of this as well as learn all she needed to about magicks, and this world. At least there were many willing to help. Like tomorrow Corrina was going to be her instructor in applying, and channeling her gifts. She was grateful they still seemed to have the same underlying connection they shared or would share in the future.
There was also the matter of why come back here? How would that help in the future? Was Cora just trying to go home to a better time? Or was it something else? The more she thought about it the more her insides were telling her this was where she needed to be. It made her miss her family all the more.
That was how Kieran found her when he entered their makeshift bedroom space. Wallowing in worry, and self doubt. Not hearing him she was surprised he gently cupped her head tilting it so he could kiss her. It was a kiss filled with longing, and caring. Her desire quickly rising to the surface, she tried to take charge of the kiss. Moaning when he backed off taking a step back, with his hand outstretched.
“Up little one. Let me turn down, and we can get in, and get some much needed sleep.”
Taking his offered hand she stood where he had moved her to. Watching as he prepared the cot for them. Once finished he made his way back to her. With a finger under her chin he tilted her head, and placed a kiss on the tip of her nose. With her guidance he helped her remove the rest of her clothes, before he placed one of his shirts on her. With a gentle tug she followed him into bed, snuggling in deep. She felt like purring in contentment, snuggled in beside him wrapped his arms, in a nice warm bed.
Maybe he was right, there were many faces of a relationship. It wasn’t all the sex, though she really, really enjoyed it with Kieran. Finally understanding the appeal, all the books had been talking about. This gentleness of just holding each other was just as intimate, if not more so. Looking up from where she was snuggled in at his chest. She smiled softly at his tired face. Maybe this could be why too, he was simply tired. Thankfully she raised up kissing him sweetly.
“Thank you, Kieran.”
Kissing once more before snuggling in again.
“Good night.”
“Goodnight little one.”
Was the last thing she heard before drifting off to sleep.
Chapter Nineteen
Time seemed to be passing by so quickly. Yesterday was her first training day with Corrina. To say she was talented would not be doing her justice. The woman had knowledge of all elemental gifts, and then some. She reminded Harlow of an encyclopedia, filled with every conceivable piece of information. She knew just how to apply it too. Her way of instruction really helped Harlow advance, and quickly. It was like this woman could pull the very best from deep within the student. Who knew she processed a great many gifts as they called them. For her it was just a matter of feeling connected to something. Whether it be fire, earth, wind or water. She apparently had an infinity with them all.
A rarity within the world but not unheard of. Half of her morning yesterday, and today had been abridged versions of history, magicks, and rules or guidelines in which all lived by. Over time there have been those who have decided to break the rules or to live on their own. That number had increased greatly thanks to Neera, and her views. The still scarier part was not knowing her practices. Many have come to believe them to be dark magicks.
They were never taught because the draw towards them was too great. Once on that side the pull became ever stronger. Much like an addiction. No one has yet to come back to the light, and stay. Also the magick was so very unpredictable it bordered on scary. So many feared it so for such a long time it became dormant for a time. Now it was on the rise at a rapid pace. If only they could slow its progression.
Learning the art of elemental magicks was both thrilling, and exhausting. At least all the physical training lessons she had done with Caden were finally paying off. It made combining the two together that much easier. It also seemed to impress Corrina. Which was something new for her. Impressing anyone with her abilities made her feel, well she wasn’t really sure how to describe it really. Other than her twin, and her son it had never happened before.
She knew they were training her for a fight or an outright battle of some kind. Hence the condensed versions of stories, and verbal lessons. With the main focus being on how to actually apply her gifts. Her only frustration was she simply just did what came naturally when asked to work with a specific element. Not thinking beyond that to a certain pathway or spell so to speak. Therefore each result of the same task had a similar but different approach to the outcome.
Her head was starting to feel like it was a maze. With each new lesson, and skills a new link was added. She was starting to get the feeling she would be trapped if she couldn’t find a thread or a crumb trail to lead her back. Maybe this afternoon's lesson on the once again abridged version of spell formation, and casting would help. It was like she was missing something. Just couldn’t quite put her finger on what that something was.
Today was her last training day for this week. After her spells, and casting lessons she would get some one on one time with Kieran. She was definitely looking forward to that. Last night she was so tired afterwards, she ate her evening meal then fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. Tonight she wanted a little more than sleep though. Tomorrow was preparation day for the festival. Everyone in the village participated. It seemed it was just as big, and as important as the festival itself. She was shadowing Corrina most of the day. As woman, and men had different tasks that they performed in order to get ready. She was excited about learning their ways but also nervous about not being near Kieran.
Within the great hall a mini course of battlements had been set up for her. She was to go through using one elemental magick at a time first, to then in subsequent rounds combine them. It felt kind of mundane at first, she questioned why. Until she had to run through the course facing opponents. Some contained gifts while others did not. Having the familiarity helped her to think on the fly for defense, and offense.
For only learning she had these gifts a little over a week ago, she was proud of herself for what she had accomplished thus far. Being nowhere near as skilled as most of the God race which she apparently belonged. She could at least defend herself, and be of some help when the time arose. At least she had a vague idea of what she was facing with Neera’s followers. With the prophecy however that was anyone's guess. Clearly important but the when, what, and where, were unknown still.
Her body ached from the last two days. At least today would end with a less physical lesson. Though she suspected it would still be just as taxing. Having to learn yet another new skill set. One she was having trouble wrapping her mind around. Even her gifts gave her a headache trying to fathom the how’s, and the why’s. For the first time however she felt like she belonged, and a valuable member within the clan. Those she had met so far had all been welcoming, and kind. Taking great interest in her as she did them.
With the current situation it had been limited contact with clan members. Only those approved of by Ravens Night members had been allowed to interact with her. For their safety, and hers. Her first meeting was with a woman who had amazing talent with cooking. Having prepared all their meals for the last few days. Her food was so good Harlow had asked her to join them, just so she could ask her questions, and learn as they ate. This apparently had greatly surprised her, and was an honor, why she didn’t know but didn’t care. Even with the odd looks coming from the others.
Then there were the men, and women she had been training with in the last two days. They were all skilled, gifts or not. Corrina kept getting frustrated with her because she would stop to talk, and ask questions after each round. They had great insight, and suggestions on how she could improve, and seemed genuinely grateful with her interest. Taking all their advice, and putting it into action had greatly improved her confidence, and for the first time, she didn’t care what anyone thought of her. She was just simply happy being herself.
After freshening up she went in search of Corrina. It was truly amazing how the great hall could be transformed. It was like a massive indoor arena, and the ability to house any type of event needed. Of course when it was constructed using magaicks, she could only guess at the number of functions it housed. Still this place had allowed for security, housing, meeting place, and training all at once. Truly amazing to her. The architecture alone was ornate, and beautiful for something so utilitarian. She heard it was rarely used for grand occasions, and mostly used for everyday affairs.
So the detailed carving work, and massive decorations spanning the rafters, and the walls were simply stunning. She would like some time just to look, and study each one. Only she suspected that it would take years to do so. It had become a safe haven for her. One she could truly relax in, and blossom. It felt strange sometimes, to feel so content while not having her family with her. Somehow in the back of her mind there was the tiniest inkling it was going to be ok.
Finding Corrina sitting at the far end of the current training area, she made her way there. With a simple.
“Hello”
She sat in the only other chair. Sitting back in the chair she crossed her hands in her lap. Giving all her focus to her teacher. For some reason she felt this was going to be the most challenging for her. Her instincts proved to be right. Struggling with basic spells they worked right through the evening meal, with Kieran, and Aidan coming to investigate afterward.
It took the three of them working with her late into the night before her aha moment occurred. It was then a domino effect, and everything seemed to connect together. Like one big spider web within her head. No longer the chaotic ever growing, and changing maze. She could do this, maybe not as well as others but in her own way.
That had her smiling, as they all agreed to call it quits for the night. Her, and Kieran didn’t get their night alone like they had planned. But lately when had any of their or her plans ever worked out. So far, her record kinda sucked on that one. It was good all she had accomplished so far. Kieran seemed to be pleased as did Aidan. Corrina had been the only to comment on how impressed she was with much they were able to cover, and in such a short amount of time too.
Everyone saying their goodnights she couldn’t wait to crawl into bed. She was exhausted. She needed some sleep. Cuddling up next to Kieran she murmured her pleasure as he wrapped her in his arms. Her last thought was maybe they could have their one on one time after the festival. Since tomorrow was preparation, and the next day was festival day. Sleep welcomed her with open arms.
Each day of Harlow’s training he, and Aidan had snuck in to watch her progress, on multiple occasions. Every time, she impressed with what she could do naturally. The fact she was willing to learn not just from Corrina but those she was mock batting with, spoke about her integrity. After every round, she’d go over, and talk to her opponent asking questions, and genuinely listen to their advice. Her actions not only impressed him but the others as well. Word was spreading throughout the clan.
Further cementing his growing belief in one's True Mate. As he was the clan chieftain he needed a partner, one who was good with people, strong, and firm of mind. Harlow was definitely displaying everything required within such a position. Although he suspected most of this was new to her, and out of her comfort zone. At least was in the past, or was it the future? Well her past anyways. This situation was troubling to think about in too many ways. Some of it was best left alone.
When they weren’t sneaking into the great hall to see lessons, they were attending meetings. Finalizing the ceremony was his top priority. Well that, and getting his dwelling cleaned up, and increasing the protection spells. He felt it was important they spend the night there after the festival, even if mostly everyone would be spending it in the clearing. As was the custom, and tradition. As he was in charge, he could, what was Cormac’s words? Oh yes, he could tweak a few things. That man really did speak in the oddest ways sometimes.
He, and Aidan along with the help of other Ravens members were selecting women who would help Harlow prepare for the ceremony. They would make sure each was faithfully loyal to the clan, and knew what topics of discussion could be shared with Harlow, as she went through her day. Also each woman was given every once of protection, and blessings. Be it from spells, herbs, gems, and clothing. Even extra protection was given to their families. Nothing was taken for granted. His people were important.
The side benefit was knowing the women hoped if this went well, that Harlow would choose them as her permanent attendants. One he knew for sure would be. She was the latest member of Ravens Night, and a talented magickal being.
Hayley bore the physical markings of an attack with other magicks. She too had no memory of her attack, much like Harlow. Kieran suspected her mind was protecting her until such a time she could actively deal with it. There were bits, and pieces of her life before she could vividly remember. Whereas others have remained buried deep within, and unaccessible.
Having found her close to their village borders, they had rushed to her aid. Welcoming her into their clan when she had nowhere else to turn. Very quickly she became a valued, and active member. With her growth, and development they had sought her out for membership. Surprised when she cried as she accepted. Saying she was honored, and shocked they would pick her. Kieran had just laughed, and shook his head.
She was the one person he thought of as a little sister really. One he also protected at all costs. Much to her annoyance. He had yet to even talk to Harlow about her. Hayley was already giving him trouble about it. But old habits die hard. It was normal practice after all to keep quiet about her. For her own perfection. With her unable to recall her attack, they didn’t know who or what to watch out for. So she was well known in the village but never spoken of. Well not by name anyways. Only within the last couple of decades had people been referring to her as his little sister. Still he was sticking with his plan to tell his Mate about her after the ceremony, and festival.
His plans were introduced Harlow to the women in the morning. Since she would be spending her next few days with them. They would be decorating, and preparing together. In their case more so on the preparing anything needed that could be done here within the great hall. Since it was the safest place for them. With the added spells, and guards. Having Corrina among them as well helped alleviate some of his worries. He had promised her he would be with her always. With the addition of the ceremony there were things they each needed to do separately. Having already played around with the arrangement of some ceremony rituals he felt it best to keep others the same.
As he, and Aidan returned, so they could all share an evening meal, they were surprised to find no one at the table. Odd, had they already eaten? They sat, and ate figuring they would be along shortly anyways. The plan was for them to all eat together while also discussing the day, and any necessary changes to the plan. It was a time of day he looked forward to. He suspected so did Aidan. He had no blood relatives left just like Kieran. This was a time of day that reminded him of past joys, albeit a little different. This meal was just to be the two of them.
When they finished they were in a bit of a sour mood. They went in search of Corrina, and Harlow. First checking their rooms assuming they had finished early, and were just tired. Not finding them there they went in search of the other side of the hall, and found them deeply entrenched in a lesson. Both women looked frustrated, boarding on grumpy. Taking a chance glance at his friend he nudged his head in their direction while mouthing ‘should we’ raising a brow in question. Aidan nodded in quick reply.
Offering their help the three of them guided Harlow through her spell casting lesson. The poor thing was having quite the challenge. Between her pronunciation, and timing there seemed to be something missing for her. The harder she tried to focus the worse she got. Deciding to take a step back he began to talk to her, and ask her questions about her lesson. At some point during the chat he saw the spark of light brighten in her eyes. Something had triggered for her. So they started again, and this time things ran rather smoothly.
