Forgemaster (Book 1 in the Spirit Guide Saga)

Chapter 12

  Days came and went to pass into weeks. Then three more months passed and with it came a chilly Fall. These months were the best Ethan could ever remember having. No longer did he feel so useless and awkward compared to everyone else. His muscles had transformed into rigid cords without an ounce of fat between them. His legs had exploded into chiseled muscle and his speed had increased to athletic proportions. He liked how he now had firm pectoral muscles and a flat, washboard abdomen and narrow hips. His hands were calloused from his job as the Forgemaster’s apprentice and was where his upper body had shed every scrap of fat he ever felt disgusted about. Kanade loved rubbing his back muscles that stood out over smooth skin and the array of scratches he wore proudly. With the new strength he found himself able to keep up with Celestia and her production of goods had doubled and with an Enchantress living with her pupil the weapons and armor were protected and shipped to the owners who had been waiting centuries for it.

  Ethan trained relentlessly every day in Krav Maga with his Naga master, learning all the moves and when and when not to use them. For once, Ethan felt comfortable in his skin and Blake’s training methods were astounding. Ethan could now hold his own against another experienced human and did so when he fought Kira’s dad who was a black-belt in Karate, and won eight out of ten matches. Ethan was by no means a small man before joining Order, but now he found he’d grown to six three, two hundred and forty pounds of pure physical power. He gained many cuts, scratches and quite a few minor scars along the way, but they proved his hard work had truly paid off. He was by no means stronger than an Amazon, faster than a Naga or graceful as a Nymph, but he was leaps and bounds more than what he ever was.

  Training evolved from fighting and mental centering to traps, how to make, spot, avoid and safely dismantle. When Ethan learned those, he was taught the fundamentals on how best to kill certain demons and where weakness’s lay. Blake was thorough and quizzed often.

  Kanade became more beautiful by the day and was truly a hopeless romantic. A simple wildflower, candlelight dinner, watching romantic movies and she was butter in his hands. She got into reading a few comics, her favorite being the Justice League and felt a connection with Hawk-girl. Who knew? She still blushed constantly and fanned her face when she was embarrassed, but never said no to a kiss, even if she was mad at Ethan. Being a soul mate didn’t mean he did everything right, but she was quick to forgive and found she had an intense sex-drive which Ethan was all too happy to sate. She even began to allow her hair to grow and it now barely brushed her shoulders. No matter how she dressed she was stunning.

  Star-bolt had recovered with no ill effects from her fight and Storm-shadow still spent most of his time watching over the herds or playing videogames with Ethan with a hoof approved controller.

  And the home they shared had been modified, much to Celestia’s pleasure for no one unauthorized ever needed to traipse through the workshop anymore. Where once Ethan’s lone window used to be now has a door that leads to a large balcony where Kanade can now land and come home without climbing off the roof or through the shop. Also beside it was a set of stairs so Ethan and anyone else who couldn’t fly could climb. It had cost quite a few points to pay the Ogres who proved excellent stone masons to create the secondary entrance, but it was well worth it.

  Floa had laid her newest progeny about two weeks after Ethan and Kanade bonded and at the time she was the most annoyingly chipper Pixie there ever was and the table they usually used was filled by all Floa’s sisters and daughters who were eager to find out. Thankfully most remained small, but no less than two hundred Pixies were difficult to be near, especially after they ate nectar and were on a sugar high. It got worse when the egg hatched.

  Odin had come running when he heard his newest child was about to step into the world and it turned out to be a baby girl, which meant Pixie rather than human, but Odin seemed proud and scooped up both Floa and their newborn daughter. They were so happy and it wasn’t over for Odin decided to throw a party for his new child which meant the family list was miles long and the guest short. Ethan had counted that over two thousand of Odin’s children, many bringing their spouses, lovers and children who wanted to come for the expensive event and Floa’s four hundred and three living children came. It was a two day event and filled the castle with visitors. Many of the usual residents went elsewhere to stay away from the festivities. It was two days Ethan would never forget… no matter how hard he tried.

  The only cool meeting was with Thor, a half Naga. The only one in existence who shares traits with both his human father and Naga mother. All other offspring took on full traits of the species at random, but not with the lightning god. Thor had scaly skin as hard as any Naga, but was tan colored rather than brown and he had long, flowing blonde hair and humanlike teeth. He led the Fifth House, but couldn’t spend much time as he soon chose to play with Jormungandr, the World Snake. Now that was a sight Ethan was in awe of for Thor’s ability was to actually grow over a hundred feet tall and wrestle with the half mile long, giant cottonmouth who laughed while gouging the ground. Jormun didn’t bite his playmate while Thor didn’t unstring the famous war-hammer Mjolnir, that actually grew in size as its master did. Ethan learned Thor’s human power was growth while his Naga heritage made him immortal, stronger and faster, if for a short time. When Ethan watched the giants playing, he could now see why they were thought gods.

  Thankfully everyone went home by the third day and Floa kept her baby close at all times till the day, she said, the baby learns to fly which would turn out to be a week later. And the child’s name turned out to be Blossom. Blossom was very beautiful, even compared to other Pixies.

  There were several nightly attacks, but only one which resulted in a casualty when a Goblin killed a Nymph. The funeral was short, but it also spurned Ethan to not slack off for if he was there she wouldn’t have died.

  And today was odd for Ethan as Blake made sure he knew yesterday to come shirtless, which was a highly odd request. And to make it odder, Kanade was forbidden to come and participate.

  “Are you sure I can’t watch from the sky?” She asked. “I wish I knew what Blake was up to?”

  “You and me both.” He said while brushing his hair. In their bedroom burned a cheery fire in the fireplace while she was bundled up beneath the sheets. “He said to meet him before sunrise like this. Go back to sleep. You’re exhausted.”

  And then she yawned as if his words triggered it. “I know. Floa and Blossom can do that to anyone, but I love Blossom’s gurgling coos. Be thankful Floa doesn’t drag you everywhere.”

  “Being an aunt to a Pixie isn’t easy.”

  “Ugh!” Kanade threw herself back. “I’m the one who told you that and now you state it? Can’t be helped, but you know what…” He stopped pulling his jeans up and looked at her. “When ours comes one day I’ll make sure Floa suffers back.”

  “Yeah and it’ll get her off my back. She keeps asking if I’m shooting blanks. I have to keep reminding her three months compared to a century isn’t that long.”

  “But I love trying.” Kanade arched an eyebrow. “We’ve not missed a single day and it keeps getting better. I know it wouldn’t happen, but if I could use the pregnancy spell Witches have, would you want one?”

  He put on his belt and sat beside her. “In a heartbeat.”

  “I love you, you know that?” she smiled.

  “You know I do. And you know how I always feel about you.” He gave her a soft kiss. “I’ll see you at breakfast, My Angel. Love you.” Her gold eyes softened.

  “Be safe.” She covered up more and closed her eyes.

  Ethan hurried to put on his boots and went to the new front door and stepped out into the chilly Fall night. To push the darkness and cold back Ethan turned his hand again into a torch, the silvery translating bracelet shone in the fire’s light. He shut the door and took the steps down to the ground. He then knew where he had to go and left down a dark trail after working the nigh
t with his oddly silent mentor Celestia. The fire illuminated a good twenty feet of trail.

  An hour after leaving home and cutting through the castle Ethan now knew well enough to not get lost and found his master leaning alone by the portcullis’s front entrance. Blake still wore his three swords perfectly, but with the change in seasons opted to wear a long sleeve black shirt, but still remained barefoot. “So what is with all the cloak and dagger stuff so early?”

  Blake offered a knowing smile. “You have been my student for the past four months, and one of my brightest I might add. You never once asked me my methods and that honored me greatly Ethan. As for the cloak and dagger, well you need to wait just a few minutes longer. Your questions will be answered shortly.”

  “Alright. Lead on.” Ethan allowed, feeling the fingers of doubt crawling over his skin.

  They left the castle behind and took a route Ethan was unfamiliar with. Blake and Ethan walked together, but the Naga just a fraction behind was intensely silent in the burning flames bathing Ethan’s hand like a glove.

  Ten minutes into it Ethan shot his hand out when spotting a disturbance in the dirt path. A portion of ground looked odd as Blake stopped. “Something’s not right.” Ethan knelt a foot back from where grayish dirt had a patch of dark in an almost perfect circle and found a stick to push some dirt away and immediately noticed a pressure plate. “Blake, what is a bear trap doing on this path. It’s recently dug and set. Someone could get seriously, especially since Pegesai graze here and Centaur… wait… Is this another test?”

  “No, not any test. Disarm it effectively.” Ethan slapped the stick on the plate and there came a ‘Clink/snap’ sound as the piece of wood was snapped in pieces. Disarmed, Ethan pulled the trap out. “This is your final test. Proceed.”

  Five minutes into the progress Ethan stopped again as he noticed a faint shimmer reflected off a thin wire crossing the path. Another stick was sacrificed to trip it. “Blake those were real spikes that just shot up like spike-strips. Someone is going to get hurt.”

  “Then I suggest you keep disarming them all till we reach our destination.”

  Ethan growled and angrily asked “What’s happening?”

  Blake hissed back “Time is wasting. At sunrise those at the wall will return home to rest and those asleep will wake and be hungry to graze at their favorite field.”

  Fighting won’t work. Ethan thought. Need to hurry.

  He turned and moved forward with speed and caution. In an hour he found seven more traps, each getting progressively more elaborate, dangerous and harder to take apart. As he finished with number nine Blake said “That is all of them. Well done.”

  “What is wrong with YOU!” Ethan exploded as he rounded on the Naga. “Tell me why you would willingly endanger others. Children use these trails often.”

  “I never once said anyone would use this trail now did I?” Ethan stopped. “I put in a request last week to make sure none use this trail for the night. This is your final test and you are halfway through. You did well spotting them as I had taught and disarming them as swiftly and safely as possible was key.” Blake crossed his massive arms. “You must proceed ahead on your own. If you do not return in five minutes you will fail.”

  “What’s waiting for me?” Ethan asked with genuine concern.

  “You will have to figure that out yourself.”

  Ethan’s throat bobbled as he gulped his cold anger down and Blake stared, unmoving. When Ethan looked down the pitch black trail and back, Blake merely tapped the top of his wrist with a claw where a silver watch was clasped. The gesture was clear. Time was wasting.

  Five minutes wasn’t long and Ethan spun and continued alone, his hand being the only guide. Two agonizing minutes later Ethan barely suppressed a yelp of surprise as three silhouettes extracted from the inky blackness in the form of a club-wielding male Ogre, a feminine Centaur with a pair of six foot long claymores lazily gripped in her demure hands and a Nymph with a longbow in her hand and a quiver full of arrows behind her right shoulder. The Ogre wore long blue jeans only while the Centaur mare wore a red t-shirt with a plunging neckline to expose an ample bosom and the Nymph, like most others wore a skillfully carved wooden bra held together by vine and for bottoms wore a handmade thong bikini out of vines too. Despite the chilly weather, these three beings weren’t human and felt cold in the same way, especially the creamy skinned Nymphs who would wade in snow and still not find the need to cover up.

  The claymore wielding Centaur woman, despite standing over nine feet tall, had a sweet and delicate voice. Her dull golden horseshoes were clearly done by Celestia, Ethan could now spot what was her work from all others. “You come unharmed, Fire-thrower… Good. I am Ellen Quiethoof. This here is Magnus Eldertree and his mate Nell Eldertree.”

  “I know you two!” Ethan pointed to the Ogre and Nymph. “Back when that Elf was found. He took your daughter.”

  “And we are forever grateful.” Nell said.

  “Do you know why you were summoned at this time?” Ellen the Centaur asked.

  “No, but I’m guessing it’s a fight. Your kind wouldn’t have unsheathed your sword for any other reason.” Ethan guessed, not that it was all that difficult.

  “Very astute.” Ellen stood tall. “Blademaster Blake was once our master long ago and it is prudent you show your skill. He believes you are ready and now you must prove it. We know your powers can smite us, but you are not allowed to depend on them.” Ellen gripped her swords to level them down at him. “Defeat us before your time expires. How long did he give you?”

  “I got less than two minutes and I don’t want to be late.” The three looked to each other unsurely at the short time he gave. “How far must I go.”

  “Make us submit. Nothing more. HA!”

  Ellen charged the short distance, swinging her heavy swords as if they weighed nothing. Ethan told his flames to not hurt them, but to stay on so he could see. His focus locked onto surviving the moment and remembering how best to knock a powerful Centaur down. Not only did they weigh more than a ton, they were faster than actual horses. He leapt back as he brought his fists up, his peripheral vision watching the swords slicing through the space his body occupied a moment ago. As they moved away he sidestepped in and ducked as Ellen’s strength was near that of an Amazon and she had flipped her swords around to lunge for his chest, one edge got close enough to sheer off a few hairs from his head. Ethan gambled as he targeted Ellen’s front hooves, where most of her weight resided and had to avoid getting kicked.

  The mare realized where he was aiming, but could not bring her swords down in time so she bent down fractionally and hopped sideways just as his hands shot out and caught air. Ellen moved around like a lightning strike and Ethan barely had time to roll to the side as her hind legs were attempting a single mule kick, but missed. Ethan sprang up as she was turning and bringing her swords around, but as she was doing so he lunged and leapt. He slapped a bear hug around her torso, his face unfortunately nestled between her large breasts. She smelled like vanilla.

  Ellen was momentarily surprised by the intimate tactic till she grunted in pain as Ethan speared his knees into her pearly white equestrian chest several times with all the force he could muster. Ellen lost the air in her massive lungs for that was basically where her sternum was, for in her upper human body she had no lungs or stomach. He aimed for her weakness with determination. Air shot past Ellen’s full ruby red lips as her forelegs buckled. Ethan landed lightly on his feet and backed away as she lost the grip on her swords and threw her hands out to catch herself before flying face first into the grass they battled into.

  Grounded, Magnus lifted his Celestia crafted club that was larger than any baseball bat and was artfully created to look as if it were made from actual wood for it had tree rings, knots and groves a wooden club might have. Magnus stood at just over six feet, but had a wider back and longer arms than Ethan and adding the extra three and a half feet of a heavy club was difficult to dodge
.

  Ogres were much like humans, only twice as strong and you would never want to head butt them for obvious reasons. Ethan jumped back, feeling the wind from the club on his cheek and delivered two quick jabs to Magnus’s jaw and felt like hitting concrete. The club began to glow as the Ogre spoke a series of commands which activated hidden runes and fed off his Spirit Energy. It had a blue glow and began to shoot sparks. Ethan had been with Kanade long enough to realize the tiny sparks made the club into an effective stunning weapon and would act much like a taser and one touch would render him incapacitated. She could make the runes, but couldn’t use them herself, but right now Magnus was.

  Blue sparks of Spirit Energy sizzled past Ethan’s head before his burning fists punched the Ogre thrice in the swinging shoulder. Magnus cried out as the localized jabs increased damage and the heavy club’s weight became too much and fell. Ethan kicked out, landing the heel of his boot in the Ogre’s chest to send him flying back.

  Two down. Ethan spun around to find Nell aiming an arrow at his leg. She shouted “Stop the arrow!” and loosed.

  Fear of pain made it happen again. ‘Boom!’ there exploded a sound that lit the area for a flash and the arrow was incinerated automatically, Without Ethan needing to think. Not only did the arrow get vaporized, Nell was thrown back by the immense force that came from the Fire Elemental and her trusty longbow disintegrated as well.

  Ellen stared, slack jawed at the power he released, but could not stand. Magnus yelled “Nell!” when he saw her knocked through the air and into the darkness. He tried to stand, but was unable to even manage rolling over.

  “I’m fine.” She groaned sorely as she didn’t return alone.

  Blake carried the Nymph in his arms saying. “Ethan, you had ten seconds remaining. You bested my three best pupils I ever trained.” He then looked down. “Nell, can you stand?”

  “I believe so.” She patted the Naga’s clothed chest as he sat her lightly down on her bare feet and she checked herself over to sigh when she wasn’t on fire or even singed.

  Ethan collapsed to his knees and gasped as Nell tended her soul mate, helping him sit up.

  “How did he do?” Blake wondered. “I came when Nell was thrown through the air and caught her before she made contact with the ground. That burst of light helped me see her being thrown.”

  “He is surprisingly fierce for a human.” Ellen said as she forced herself to stand. “Blake, I wondered why you gave him so short a time, but now I understand.” She then moved over to collect her swords, checked them and slid them into the sheaths that are strapped lengthwise to her lower half.

  “What am I missing?” Ethan said as he increased the brightness of the fire in his right hand and killed the one in his left.

  Nell said as Magnus stood and used her for support “Blake forces his students to fight for their final lesson. He taught all three of us, but you had the shortest time limitation I ever heard of…”

  “No, Jason of the Argonauts had the shortest time. I gave him three minutes to face two of my sons and he succeeded… barely.” Blake corrected her and looked at Ethan. “But in the four months you have been my student Ethan, you have inhuman focus and a knack at learning, so long as you don’t assume. You need to learn patience, but that will come with experience. I gave you a time limit” Ellen, Nell and Magnus moved to stand behind their former Naga master to look at him as well. “because you excel under pressure. Nell is one of the best archers, Magnus’ skill with his club and activating different magics in the heat of combat exceeds mine and Ellen’s swordsmanship, speed and archery talents are in the top fifty in all Centaur herds in the universe. You defeated three veteran warriors in under five minutes which means you are now a warrior in full and can hold your own against demons, even without your powers. You have passed.”

  “I need a new bow, Blake.” Nell pouted.

  “It will be replaced y me, but now Ethan, I must mark you as a student of mine who is graduated from my tutelage and is a trained warrior.” The Naga gestured him forward with a claw.

  “Uh…” He hesitated.

  “Come closer. Magnus, please bring the kit.” Blake said and the Ogre grabbed his club, spoke under his breath and turned it into a bright blue-white light that pushed the darkness further than Ethan’s hand and walked down the trail. By the time he returned Ethan was standing before the three anxiously. Magnus handed over an old leather bag that looked like a letter carrier’s satchel. Blake lifted the flap and removed a jar of thick black ink inscribed with runes in a ceramic jar along with cloth, Tournikka ointment and a strange, stamp-like object with a long handle. “Ethan, would you mind sterilizing this for me.”

  The Elemental took the object and covered it in the fire of his hand, seeing that there were hundreds upon hundreds of needles less than a quarter inch long in the pattern of a Naga’s clawed hand surrounded by a slit eye with a pair of crossed swords in the background, with the pommel’s facing from the bottom up. Immediately Ethan realized what he held and said “A Tattoo. You want to stamp a tattoo on me?”

  “Well you’re immune to heat so branding is out of the question.” Blake said sarcastically. “Yes, this is my standard all my students wear. The needles are so fine you will feel almost nothing but a bit of pressure. It will be quicker and more identical than any tattoo artist could ever replicate” Ethan switched hands so the metal stamp could cool. “Show him.” Magnus, Nell and Ellen pulled their long hair aside, Magnus’ being silvery, Nell’s being bright evergreen and Ellen’s dirty blonde. At the nape off all three of their necks was Blake’s black mark. It wasn’t more than two inches long, and was easily able to hide.

  The object cooled and was returned to the Naga who opened the rune marked, ink jar and sat the needles end into the thick black ink and thoroughly moved it around so every microscopic needle was coated. Blake stood and had Ethan turn around. Warm, scaly fingers lifted the thick hairs on the back of Ethan’s head and before he could say ‘Wait!’ there was a firm pressure on the back of his neck. Blake began whispering to it and Ethan could feel movement, like ants, but there was no pain. Blake was whispering to the creation so the needles would fill every piece of skin that wasn’t pierced.

  It was all over in a minute tops and the pressure on his neck was lifted. Ethan was told to hold still and soon felt a wet cloth wiping away excess ink and a few tiny drops of blood before drying and applying a generous amount of ointment. “Done. Here, see for yourself.” Ethan tuned and took the pair of small hand mirrors. He maneuvered them so he could see just the bottom of the tattoo because his hair wasn’t long enough to cover it all. The area was already beginning to redden, but there was no pain. Blake then lifted his hair to show the mark in its entirety. “What do you think?”

  “Not bad for my first ink.” Ethan returned the mirrors. “So are you not my master anymore now or something?”

  The three behind Blake smirked, but he said “I’ll always be your master, but now it isn’t mandatory you learn every day. Just keep to daily exercises as is required and if you wish to learn, you may contact me at any time.” The Naga replaced the supplies, threw the strap over his shoulder and gave Ethan a serious stare. “Now that I acknowledge you, Ethan, I must ask you a question.”

  “Go right ahead.” He succeeded in not sounding suspicious.

  “Three months have passed since you were offered a role as a squad leader. Have you decided one way or another about it?”

  “Not really. Why?”

  Blake smiled marginally and Ethan now found it less disconcerting since he’d been around it enough to tell the difference between a smile and barred teeth. “I would suggest you take it and request the four of us be permanent members of your team. I know Storm is gnawing away to fight again and as your companion, will make us a six man team.” Ellen stomped her foot indignantly. “Sorry, six person team.” He corrected. “The four of us would be a great addition and we need a proper leader.”

  “Why me? Why can’t yo
u be a squad leader yourselves?” Ethan stalled.

  Magnus brushed grass from his pants while saying “You Americans have a saying, ‘Those who can’t do teach’ well we are teachers in this respect. Blake is four millennia, Nell is six hundred, Ellen is four hundred and seventy two and I am two ninety four. Age holds nothing for competency. We are not leaders, nor shall we ever fulfill the roll properly. You should also know we failed because we followed our tests to the letter and botched our real mission long ago. Unlike you, I let my captive die in his mission for a heinous crime… as did the rest of us. We are soldiers who didn’t think for ourselves and so set in our ways that we paid the price. Yes we all follow orders from our leaders, but deciding which one is justified while another is wrong and we still follow through… well that is why we weren’t fit to lead. You have the opportunity to lead.” Magnus shrugged with a sigh. “Personally I would like to repay you for saving our daughter from the Elf.”

  “Well spoken, Husband… You need a great archer, Young Man.” Nell added before Ethan could respond. “I never miss my target. And I too want to fight alongside a fire-thrower so long as you do not light me on fire.” The Nymph smiled beautifully, un-aged by time and retained a youthful body. “My husband and I would like to be your companions, even if you hadn’t saved our darling daughter. Many wish to fight at your side. It is almost guaranteed that they will come home from every mission and battle under your command.”

  “And I” Ellen crossed her arms beneath he ample bosom. “was chosen by my leaders Callu and Mia to be a liaison for the herd and companion. It was a coincidence Blake was also my master long ago and our skills complement each other. What’s more, my colts are all grown and I had a birth control chip put in my arm to not have any more foals… so my mate and I do not need to fear leaving a foal parentless any time soon. I am fully dedicated to my role as a warrior for the remainder of my life. So you do not need to worry me leaving your side at all and be in danger because I was here tending my young. If you are willing to be a hunt-master, I will follow.”

  “May I take a few minutes?” Ethan asked, got nods and stepped away.

  Ten minute later he found them sitting together, idly chatting. He said “I thought about it and sure, I’ll give it a try. Just so you know beforehand I’ll need some serious help learning the ropes. I’ve only did the Incubus hunt.”

  “You will learn. Our experiences and wisdom over the centuries are at your disposal. Do not hesitate to access it. The survival of a team is paramount on such trust.” Blake proudly pat Ethan on the shoulder and offered a bright lizard-man smile. “And we will support you till you grow confident in this role. I will inform Lord Odin of your answer. I will schedule our first hunt soon.” He told them as a group. “We all are nearing the six month deadline anyway. You three spend time with Ethan. I should return by breakfast with our first orders. We will hold a practice before lunch so you can learn each other’s skills so as a unit, we will be more effective.” Blake immediately walked away.

  “We have a good two hours before breakfast. Would you like to go to my place to clean up and meet Kanade.”

  Nell hesitated. “Celestia’s home? I wouldn’t mind a bath, but you do know my kind might look like a fair skin human, but are actually as flammable as wood. Right?” Her brown eyes were filled with natural fear as she clung to Magnus’ thick arm.

  “Don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten. Celestia never goes in my room and now I have a new entrance that leads strait to it. And even should she be near I have become adept at manipulating fire. Nell, touch my hand.”

  “No, fire is bad.” The Nymph shook her head quickly.

  “If you’re wanting me to lead this new group you need to trust me.” He saw she wasn’t going to. He held his burning hand up to the mare. “Ellen, touch my hand then.”

  The Centaur woman was also hesitant, but she locked her delicate jaw and squeezed her eyes shut before reaching out and taking it. After a few seconds she peeked when all she felt was a gentle warmth tickling between her fingers. “What an odd sensation… Nell, I’m not feeling things as fire ought.”

  Nell shook her head.

  “Magnus?” Ethan held his hand out and the Ogre took it.

  “Love, it is harmless. I wondered why I didn’t feel his fire when he punched me in the face and shoulder.”

  Tentatively Nell was guided closer and against every natural instinct, she took his hand with a gasp. Her grip was powerful, fueled by fear, and she held rigidly still for over a minute before opening her eyes and gasping to scream as she was entirely engulfed in fire from head to toe. Then she realized she wasn’t alone when her husband held her in his powerful arms while all four of them were in an inferno that was hot, but not sufficiently so. Ethan grinned “I can choose what and what not to burn. Right now the three of you, your clothes, the grass and ground are in no danger. It takes but a thought for me to change those conditions. Fire I can perfectly control and it obeys me.” The immense blaze surrounding them was drawn effortlessly into the palm of his hand. “Nell, it is just like your use with a bow. Whether it kills or not is all up to the intention you give it. You never need to fear fire when I’m nearby.”

  The three were greatly impressed, but Nell only became more comfortable when the fire in his hand took a step back. “Come on, let’s go to my place.”

  Guided by firelight they moved slowly down the path, feeling their skirmish taking its toll. Ethan’s back and knees were sore, but noticed all the traps he had disarmed were now gone and Blake’s footprints told he had collected it all. Nell was rubbing Magnus’ shoulder while Ellen massaged her lower chest. Ellen was the first to speak though. “Ethan, after you failed to take out my forelegs, why did you embrace me an aim for my breast?”

  He gave her a considering look. “Well I can’t jump high enough to get you in a choke hold to kick you in the head. You would have reared back and flattened me. Your horse-half’s ribs are too thick to kick and would just piss you off, but Blake showed me a place on Storm-shadow where on the front of his chest is a thick layer of muscle, but a small nerve where if you hit it enough times and use a lot of force you can knock the wind out of them. If you had worn Centaur battle armor, your lower breastplate would have protected you.”

  “I must say” Ellen tossed her long, sandy blonde hair behind her strong yet elegant shoulder. “it certainly was a sharp knee thrust from that position. Have you not wondered why none of us wore armor? Why yours and Magnus’ chests are bare?” He shrugged. “The reason is simple. To have an honorable match as you are and your opponent sees there is no trick or falsehood. Any other conflict I would have donned my armor. In truth, Ethan, you are the first human to ever ground me through unarmed might.”

  Ethan grinned. “Yeah, but you were momentarily surprised with my face between your breasts. If not for the suddenness you could have knocked me out with the pommel of your swords before I could have brought my knees in.”

  “True.” Ellen admitted with a small smile. “Nevertheless, you managed to take advantage of the moment. Just do not do it again. Only my stallion may fondle me.”

  “Not to worry, I know how dangerous my actions would have resulted if your mate had seen. Only one of us would have walked away. Centaur honor is more stubborn than Amazon.” Nell laughed as Ellen smirked and swished her long and beautiful white horse tail.

  “I for one am surprised by how heavy you punch. Few even of my kind pack such a wallop.” Magnus said as he let his club rest over his good shoulder. “I’ve been hit in the face by a few humans, but yours takes the cake.”

  “Yeah, not only has Blake run me ragged for four whole months Celestia’s job is demanding. Working the metal is more than heating and swinging a hammer. I’m finally able to keep up with her pace. You would be surprised just how much strength and precision working metal is and don’t even get me started on the details. Your club for instance, I’ve spent a week working with her on one. Trust me when I say that if you don’t get
strong fast, nothing will get done. By the way Magnus, when did you get a club from her… and you Ellen, your shoes?”

  The Ogre said “I’ve had this for seven years, but I had to wait a hundred and eleven years to receive it and nothing compares to Celestia’s creation.”

  “I’ve had my shoes for sixty or so years and waited for just over a century to get them as well.” Her hooves were silently walking over the sand. “You have little idea just how hard it was to wait.”

  “Actually I do.” Ethan said grimly. “I’ve seen Celestia’s client list. Yes, with my extra set of hands, more is being made, but we’ll never be caught up for another seventy to ninety years. And the worst part is that sometimes the customer dies before she gets to work on the very weapon or armor that could have saved their life. And to further make it more difficult is the runes Kanade and other Enchanters imbue into my master’s creations can only respond to one owner. Should they die the weapon is useless and even if it’s recovered and not buried with the body, My Angel, will theoretically spend days stripping runes so I or Celestia can modify it for a relative to use. For instance,” Ethan held out his hand. “Magnus, may I?” The Ogre passed his thirty pound club over. “If you died, Kanade would need to extract every activation and protection rune, give it to me to heat and reshape the grip to your kids, which would take two or three days to get right, give it back to Kanade where she will meet with the person who will inherit it and bind their unique spirit energy to the club. Her clients come to our apartment all the time. Nell would be unable to use it for her energy is different from yours. Only your children or siblings would be compatible and even then it won’t be close to being as powerful as it is in your hands. This metal is imbued with your Spirit Energy and is best in your hands. Yes the metal still really harms demons who are weakened by different alloys, but the spells effectiveness’s will be greatly reduced. For this reason, recycling might be less costly, but is less effective.

  “It is why Celestia has such a long client list for new orders, because she gives only the best. She doesn’t repurpose and gets offended by the notion. Other Order smiths will alter for a new owner. Celestia does not. I tell you this because she won’t allow me to give inferior weapons to anyone either, and I agree. You certainly wouldn’t want a weapon that is repurposed because in a match between two of Celestia’s perfect creations, the one who’s original owner wielding it against a second recipient will win every time. Just because the list is long doesn’t mean it’s not worth it.” He returned the club. “Compared to you three immortals, a century is just a blink of the eye anyways right?”

  “True.” Ellen nodded. “And Ethan, should I fall, I want you to know my wishes. My shoes will go to my firstborn daughter. She and I have identical hooves and just earned enough points to apply for her own set by Celestia last year. I wish for Enchantress Kanade to, as you say repurpose them, until she gets hers…”

  “No.” He shook his head and held up his hands. “That you will have to work out with Kanade. Not my department. All enchantments are her area. I won’t fix them because Celestia has made sure I promise to only make the best, never reuse unless I completely melt down your horseshoes and start from scratch. The most I can promise is to cut off your hooves if I can’t move your body.”

  “That is acceptable.” The Centaur seemed pleased.

  “Well I’m being buried with Zaxis.” Magnus declared while fingering the club.

  “You’re not going to die at all unless I’m the one stabbing you to death.” Nell said finally. “Oh, Ethan, ever made a bow before?”

  “Not yet.” He admitted as they walked towards the castle. “Although I’ve seen Celestia make one just once. We don’t make arrows, but the bow she made was wicked with sharp points and blades along its length and the center parted, making it into an effective pair of curve swords. Why do you ask?”

  Nell shrugged. “Because if I’m going to be the main archer of this team I’ll need something more than wood. You already demonstrated you can make it into instant ash.”

  “Sorry.” He apologized. “That is one skill that is quite uncontrollable. I found it is a defensive ability when a projectile won’t burn up quick enough to do harm. It happened the first time when an Elf shot at me and it blew him and the Incubus away. It is an intense burst of power that destroys all inanimate weapons in front of me for over twenty feet and sends any attackers flying who are within fifty. Celestia told me that in that moment the area is flashed at over five hundred thousand degrees. Without water, any object is blown apart. I didn’t have time to warn you.”

  “No serious damage done.” The Nymph flung her hair back. “What about if you’re attacked from behind? Will it do likewise?”

  “Blind spot.” He responded and shook his head. “If I don’t see it coming and know I’m about to be seriously injured, well… I’d be in big trouble. My power is intense, not foolproof. That outward blast you felt is the only one that’s automatic… That I’ve found out about.”

  “Are we going to cut through the castle?” Magnus’ deep voice entered into the conversation as they stepped onto the main southern street.

  “Yeah. It’s the shortest route to reach my place. Why?” Ethan asked.

  “Instead of walking all the way there how about we go to my home?” Magnus asked. “You can tell your mate to meet us for breakfast and there is more than enough space for the four of us to clean up.”

  Nell seemed much more animated over this idea compared to going near her natural enemy, fire, especially a giant bird cloaked in eternal flames with a well earned reputation for being unwelcoming. “Yes! Good idea, Love. Vina is sleeping in her crib at the grove with my sister. I’ll go get her.” Before anyone could stop her, Nell ran swiftly ahead to the forest of orderly trees, guided by minimal moonlight and centuries of experience to know where everything is.

  “Uh, where is she going?” Ethan asked.

  Magnus answered “Her sister is watching over our daughter in the Nymph southeastern grove. Nell will return likely as we reach our room. I will lead from here.”

  Magnus took over the party and when Ethan could see enough to not trip over his own feet the fire in his hand snuffed out. Two hours remained before breakfast and as winter would be coming in a month or so, the nights had begun to grow longer with dawn no longer rising at four each morning. Inside the castle they moved, saying little while going over the final trial the was done. Ethan’s bare back, he knew, was scratched up from the dodging to the ground. But he looked at his hands, going over the past sixteen week’s worth of agonizing and relentless hard work and pain.

  How I’ve changed. Ethan thought in the privacy of his mind. I never would have believed it before all this, but I’m doing something with my life. I just took on a Centaur, Ogre and Nymph in under two minutes and won! Then he asked in a whisper “Why wasn’t I scared?”

  Forgetting Centaur hearing, Ellen guessed well the meaning. “It is Blake.”

  “Huh?”

  Ellen looked down at him as only a warrior could, demanding, critical and direct. “You wonder how you could face three experienced warriors without being afraid do you not?” He nodded. “Tis Blake and a trait of the Nagai clan. I have been observing you from afar ever since Collu and Mia wanted me to be under your leadership several days after you hunted Incubi. I was also there the first day you graced us will a remarkable first impression, getting off Storm-shadow.” Ellen grinned as she heard his groan. “You wonder how you could go from a lazy, inexperienced human to one who could face three masters unarmed. Mostly it is due to Blake. Each day he was with you not only gave you combat experience and how to meditate, but also a minor gift. Nagai do not advertize it, but if one faces them in combat long enough they fear dying and getting hurt less. It is their innate magic. Yes, Blake taught you as he did us,” She pointed to herself and Magnus who merely smiled with vibrantly white teeth. “but you have faster reactions and won’t freeze when threatened like timid prey. I was a ver
y shy female before he trained me. All the pain he inflicted not only increased pain tolerance, but how to set it aside so you can achieve victory. Combat gave confidence, but training under a Naga made it so you fear dying less and can move properly so as to survive. I know my words are highly confusing, but you didn’t flee from my swordsmanship or Magnus’ club or Nell’s arrow. You are not what you were. No longer are you human. You are now a warrior in full and can honor the pledge you took that first evening of your arrival.”

  Magnus then turned into the Ogre hall saying “Ethan, just know that Blake trained you in more than combat and meditation. He gave you invaluable life lessons on how to survive in our dangerous line of work. Chaos will never relent and tonight you proved that neither shall you.”

  About halfway through the hall they began climbing steps and heard “We’re back!” Following quickly was Nell with her naked daughter Vina sitting on her mother’s round hip. Ethan was glad he saved the adorable baby Nymph who cooed when she saw her Ogre father and the noise brought a smile to all of their faces.

  They moved up to the top level and turned before continuing to the roof. Magnus opened a thick wooden door that stood over fifteen feet in height and allowed everyone inside. Nell immediately noticed a difference to their bedroom when not out in the grove, passed Vina to her father and moved before Dress and lifted a wrapped cloth from the ground. Everyone curiously looked at it as she said “Dress, what is this?” she asked the closet beside the large moss bed.

  Ethan though quickly saw that the apartment was full of living plants, like a greenhouse. The bed was made from woven reeds and filled with soft grey moss. A crib was crafted from a stump and nothing other than a TV was unnatural. He wondered how all the plants survived till he looked up and saw the ceiling was actually a skylight that was between two of the many canopy trees growing over them. It was interesting compared to many other rooms he’d seen.

  Dress, like in every bedroom throughout the many Houses around the world, was there. The golden face smiled and the blue eyes were full of vitality and mischief. “Hey, Girlfriend! Oh and guests. Some of my favorite people are here, Nell. Hey, Vinaaa!” The toddler gurgled when small brown eyes looked at the sound of her name. Nell cleared her throat and held the wrapped object to return to her inquiry. “A gift from Blake.” Dress said. “Said to tell you this was one of his spares and hopes you like it.”

  Nell slowly unwrapped the linen cloth and her eyes flew open wide as she pulled out an unstrung recurve bow. Immediately she announced “Dragon Horn!”

  “I don’ get it.” Ethan said to Magnus quietly as Ellen moved to the bathroom door to bathe. Since all bathrooms were huge to begin with, Ethan didn’t need to ask if the Centaur would fit. Nothing was undersize at the castle.

  Magnus sat his daughter down to move as she will to say “Next to a bow made by Celestia, Dragon Horn is the most sought after. For Blake to give a Dragon Horn bow as a gift is unheard of. Not only are dragons one of the hardest demons to kill, but it takes diamond to cut off a horn or immense magic. See how the horn has all those ring bumps along its length?” Ethan nodded as Nell held the object reverently. “It would take no less than a year to soften the horn in a special softening solution, to then split it down the center one inch a week, attach the bases and bend it to a desired shape, let it dry over the heat of an active volcano for two more years and then it will be ready for use. Dragons are fire resistant and their horn, once treated properly, will not break or lose tension ever again. Knowing our old master, Blake likely killed the dragon and harvested its horns and scales. It now makes sense why he gave his wife Dragon Scale armor a few centuries back.”

  “Enough said. Blake told me he’s only managed to kill three dragons before and told me how deadly they are. Anything that can give Blake pause must be tough.”

  “That is an understatement.” Magnus led Ethan to a large patch of soft grass and sat. “Dragons are weakened by copper and can weaken their scales to bite into hard flesh, but you have to get very close to pierce their heart. Arrows bounce off harmlessly or wont penetrate deep enough into their flesh to cause any serious damage. Their horns need diamond or magic, as I said, to cut off and the only way to kill them is to pierce their hearts and send a blast of Spirit Energy to finish the job. Their heart is well protected by the thickest layer of scales in their chest and if you don’t have copper long enough to stab through the scales you’ll either get roasted or squashed flat. Copper is the dragon’s lone weakness. No other metal or material will even scratch their scales.”

  Nell went to her shelf and pulled out her archery kit, pulled out her best string and wrapped one loop around a tip, slung it between her legs and grunted as she pulled the top back and barely managed to hook the other loop around. She sighed and stepped out to grip leather center and found the handle just over what she was comfortable with and drew the string. She smiled and looked to her husband chatting with Ethan to hop over as Vina played with a fallen stick. “This is wonderful!” She showed off her new bow. “It needs minor alteration, but will do well. I’m going to go out and practice. See you at breakfast.” She kissed Magnus on his horn and flitted out the front door.

  “I know Nymphs are aloof, but that’s twice now that she didn’t give you a chance to put in a word.”

  Magnus pat Ethan on the back. “That is my Nell.” The Ogre Laughed. “Not to worry, she gets like this when new things happen quickly. And I cannot blame her, though I’ll never be as skilled as a Nymph or Centaur, I would not hesitate to try out a Dragon’s Horn bow no matter the time. Even a spear from the same material would be practiced with.”

  Ellen came out a moment later with a towel around her torso and she dried her long hair. She didn’t even need to ask Nell’s whereabouts, hearing it all and Dress supplied the pretty mare with a new shirt.

  Ethan also rinsed off all the dirt and let the shower wash out his minor back wounds and slid back into his jeans. Dress gave him a long sleeve silvery shirt which he was grateful for. Despite his new physique, Ethan still felt self conscious in front of other without one.

  He settled down in the grass to ask “So what do you guys prefer to hunt or do you not care? Storm is known to take out Kelpies at every opportunity.”

  Magnus watched his daughter lay asleep contently in the grass as he said “Elves mostly. After that one snatched Vina” his blue hand turned into a fist which took on a powdery hue as skin stretched against bone. “it only reinforced my anger towards them. They are tricky bastards, but if you can get close enough they are easy to crush.”

  “I prefer Arachne and Lamia myself.” Ellen said.

  “Lamia? Never heard of that kind of demon.” He said.

  “Half woman, half snake. Like Medusa from Geek mythology, but their hair isn’t made of snakes and they cannot turn mortals to stone. They paralyze through venom. They are quiet and fast and have paralyzing venom like Arachne, but more deadly if left untreated. Without aid, in three days, once bitten will pass on.” Ellen explained.

  As the castle chimed it was time for breakfast Ethan found Kanade and Nell already chatting away like old friends at their table. Both Magnus and Ethan were equally surprised that their women were already conversing. Nell spotted them first and waved, but the first to speak was Kanade as she stood. “Ethan, This Nymph says you will be a squad leader and that Blake made you fight all of them?”

  “Not my seedling though.” Nell quipped as she took Vina in her arms an tickled the child to elicit a giggle.

  To answer he turned around and lifted the hair on the back of his neck up. “Yeah and it wasn’t easy. When I won he gave me this tattoo.”

  The Enchantress’s cool fingers lightly touched the new ink like the kiss of a butterfly. “I see. It is red, but not swollen or infected. Are you hurt elsewhere?”

  “A few minor scrapes that will heal in no time.” He smiled as he spun. “Kanade, I would like to introduce Ellen and Magnus, also former pupils of Blake’s and my newest compani
ons.” The winged beauty shook both of their hands and greeted them with warm smiles. “So how long have you two been waiting?”

  “A few minutes.” Kanade promised as they all sat at the table. “Nell just came up and said we’re goin’ to be good friends out of nowhere.”

  The Nymph merely grinned.

  “My wife is quite forward, even among her kind.” Magnus said and grunted as Nell elbowed him in the ribs and smiled innocently as if she didn’t do a thing.

  “More people! Goody!” Floa sounded as she flew down and changed to her larger size. Blossom wasn’t far behind her mother and giggled like a toddler. For a two and a half month old, Pixies grew quick and Blossom look more like a green skinned four year old with dark black hair like her mother, but her butterfly wings had a lot more gold and white markings. The young Pixie skipped across the table and leapt saying “Auntie Kanna!”

  As the usual routine of the past week, Kanade smiled and held out her arms to catch the child. “Mornin’ Sweetheart.” Kanade kissed the Pixie’s brow and said “You changed all on your own!”

  “Surprised me this morning too!” Floa grinned. “We were with Odin last night and she grew without my help to land butt first on his face. Naked mind you. It was an accident, but funny.” The proud mother giggled. “Blossom, come back over here before Cook shows up and tells you a lady doesn’t run across the table again.”

  Blossom hurried back over on stubby legs and embraced her mother.

  “Seems a lot has happened in three months.” Kanade suddenly stiffened at the sound of this new voice. She knew it well and forced herself to relax. She and the others looked as Kira stood close, holding a plate, utensils and a large, empty glass. “Hello, Lads, may I join you.”

  “Kira?” Ethan said as he couldn’t believe it was her. Instead of wearing some of the most provocative clothes on the planet she was dressed in a flattering dress, classy heels and wore less makeup. She was actually more beautiful without intending to force it. Her long brown hair was braided, accentuating her slender neck, but the green dress didn’t have a plunging neckline. Ethan also noticed her fragile ego at standing before them. “We haven’t seen you around here in months, not since…” He didn’t finish, but the table was deathly silent. “Where have you been?”

  Kira looked to the eyes of everyone present, but to Kanade most of all to say “Busy. May I join you?”

  Kanade surprised them all by saying “Only if you tell us where you’ve been. Were you avoidin’ us?”

  “I wish I could say no, but yes.” The Witch admitted, moving around to sit across from a Nymph curiously looking at her. “Partially, I mean. Ever since you” Kira’s light green eyes turned on Ethan. “removed Ken from the spell book and finally sent his soul where it belongs, Torment, all the women of my clan have been working hard. There are sixteen living Witches of my family who all carried Ken when it was their time and all of us have been adding new spells so our line can continue to be the only ones to use it, but instead of it belonging to only one, my aunts and ancestors can go to my great great great grandmother who was chosen as guardian and access the immense information Ken had coveted. It has taken three months to finish and is why I felt like trying to come back.” She went quiet.

  “Is your family mad at me for my spontaneous actions?” Ethan had to ask as he had been worried he crossed a line he had no reason to even be near.

  Kira looked up in surprise at the question and the change he had undergone in the past months. The Witch shook her head quickly. “By no means are any in my family upset. In fact we are most grateful for what you did.”

  “Really?” Ethan didn’t sound so sure.

  “Without a doubt. Ken was already dead so it’s not like you killed him. Remember how Storm-shadow told you Ken sided with Chaos and my ancestors trapped his soul to all women of my line?” He nodded vaguely. “Well it was meant to teach a lesson, but it backfired and he became a curse that was thought irremovable… till you. Ken’s words were poison and he only became more bitter as time went on. Thanks to your intervention now, all my family can consult the texts once again.”

  “But isn’t it sexist? The spell book only working for the women? What about your dad…”

  Kira held up a finger and he stopped. The whole table seemed curious now, except Kanade. “Just like there are different runes I cannot use while Kanade can, so it is between Wizards and Witches. Witches can cast curses to bewitch objects and create very potent potions that Wizards cannot. Wizards though can use greater offensive spells and illusions. Most of the spells in on my side focus on feminine arts. Only I though can match a Wizards offensive casting of offensive spells at this House, but I’m terrible at illusions. Six other Witches in the world can claim to be stronger… that still live. There is a reason why people call me the most powerful Witch here for a reason.”

  Ellen leaned forward to say “Ethan, I know your history with her, but our team needs a Witch, all hunts have at least one Caster as support. To my knowledge Kira Penbrooke has yet to formally decide on a permanent team…”

  “Team?” Kira looked at the beautiful Centaur with long dirty blonde hair. “Wait… Ethan, you lead a team?”

  “For the past two hours or so. S Class.” He admitted just as Storm-shadow settled down beside Ethan in his usual spot. “Hey Storm.” The Pegasai, Witch, Enchantress and Pixie heard what happened this morning by the Elemental and introduced the new members. Blake later sat down with his wife so silently beside Ellen that none saw them yet. He then had to order breakfast from Cook and half way through said “And that’s what happened.”

  Kanade nodded and said “I agree with Ellen’s consideration. Kira, despite our past, I think your powers will be good for their newly formed team… if you want to that is. You have my blessin’ to fight with my husband.”

  “I will… think on it.” Kira decided and looked down at her half finished plate of scrambled eggs and bowl of blueberries.

  “Well you’ll also need a full time Pixie!” Floa stated. “It’s been awhile since I’ve pitched in for such a job. Kanade if I go with them will you watch over Blossom while away?” The blue haired beauty nodded, knowing she couldn’t be part of the team for enchanters couldn’t fight and would only be a liability. They could cast powerful protections, but in combat that isn’t what’s needed.

  “Glad to hear it.” Heads snapped to Blake and his wife. The Nagai looked at each other and hissed a laugh. “Everyone, this is my brood-mate Reevy. Reevy, this is Floa and her daughter Blossom, Enchantress Kanade and you already know the others.”

  Reevy, unlike Blake was lighter of color with less prominent scales covering her body. She was deceptively demure, but wore dark green scales that looked like large diamonds, like chainmail over a pair of well endowed breasts that made even Kira a bit jealous. Her opaque claws were painted a ruby color, but wore spike studded gloves. At her elbows were bands with a sharp curved blade that were lethal in close combat and over a shoulder was a rapier sword. Her voice was soft for a Nagai. “It is a pleasure to meet my mate’s companions. I’ve heard so much and it is past time I get to meet you in person.”

  “Why did you wait so long to introduce her?” Ethan asked Blake.

  Reevy answered “Because I would be a distraction and I am quite busy hunting Sheedan down.” She noticed the table’s instant reaction to this. Sheedan the Agas Demon Lord who sent the Elves covertly to the First House and one of whom tried kidnapping Vina. “Do not worry, I know what I’m doing and only those trained to hunt Agas can participate. This is another reason I stayed away from my mate’s pupils. Love, better tell them before I get questioned to the third degree.” She winked at Ethan.

  The sword carrying male smiled and said “We got ourselves a rather difficult mission. Kira,” The Witch gave him her undivided attention. “you will need to decide soon whether to join Ethan’s group or not right now. Your talents will be greatly needed on this difficult mission and as you too are also a warrior who to
ok the oath you have an obligation, thought I know Ethan won’t force you to do so. Listen to what I have to say and decide.” Kira at least nodded as Blake looked to each member closely while taking a bite of seasoned rabbit from his plate. The seriousness of Blake’s words kept the table quiet while the rest of the hall was just as lively as usual. “We’re going on an S Class ranked mission though we’ve never officially worked together before because of Ethan’s power. As a Fire Elemental we’ll likely have only the hardest tasks from now on, B Class and up, but this one needs coordination above all else.” Blake swallowed and Ethan knew Class ranked missions were A-E depending on danger and S Classes were left for the greatest issues that held worldwide dangers. “Spirit World has had a breach by two demons and two celestial items were stolen because of it. We are tasked with retrieving them and eliminating the thieves.”

  The air at the table grew thick with silence before Ethan’s innocently ignorance had him asking “Stolen? From Spirit world? Isn’t that place off limits to demons or something?”

  Heads turned to him, but not harshly. Kanade took his hand and said “Ethan, Spirit World has the greatest protection and no demon has gone there for over five hundred years. Not since the accords were finalized. It was supposed to be impenetrable by Chaos’ reach… and if not one but two demons found a way in and entered the fortified and guarded Trove of treasure… well they will be powerful demons to be sure.” She looked to Blake and asked “What kind of demons were they and what was stolen?”

  Slowly the Naga fingered a katana at his hip. “A nine tailed Kitsune” Ethan heard it pronounced kit-soon-nay. “and a Siren. The report said the Siren was powerful enough to put two Enforcers asleep while the fox entered and stole the items.” Ethan saw everyone tense slightly in preparation. “The artifacts stolen were the Mallatiatherium Sword and Crescent Mirror.”

  “You can’t be serious!” Storm-shadow whinnied.

  “Indeed I am.” Blake said with an unwavering gaze.

  “What are these items? I’ve never heard of them.” Kanade said and only Ethan and Kira were likewise left out.

  Floa answered as Blossom lay curled up on the bench after finishing her nectar. “Not surprising. Fate himself locked those two powerful creations away before the three of you were ever born. The Mallatiatherium Sword was demon forged and offered as a gift for the Accords while demons got our Spectral Light so that they could see in the deepest pits of Demon World. The sword, I know for a fact because I saw it used nine centuries ago, can cut anything alive and turn it into a demon. All it takes is one tiny nick and you’ll be lost forever as an obedient demon servant to the owner of the sword. It will even make lesser demons out of trees. The only way to free the souls turned demon lays in the hilt, but only if it’s taken before their skin turns black. Black servants lose their soul. The only ones able to handle that forbidden blade are demons or Nagai. It will kill any other bearers.

  “The Crescent Mirror can only be used at night and can be likewise catastrophic if left unchecked. It’s power is matched by the phase of the moon. The fuller the moon, the more powerful it becomes. What makes it so dangerous is it can grant any wish no matter how big, for a price.”

  “Price?” Kira prompted.

  “That is what I said. If the wish is minor you might lose a finger or something equivalent. And you only get one wish. If it is a big wish cast under the full moon it can destroy a city larger than New York instantly for the wisher’s life. Even galaxies can be destroyed.” Floa answered to her level of information on the subject.

  “Alright, but back to the demons…” Ethan looked at all at the table. “I know a Siren can be man or woman who’s voice can lull one to sleep or blow out your eardrums if you hear, but what is a Kitsune?”

  Storm-shadow answered this time. “A rare demon who’s power is reflected in the number of tails it has. Nine is as high as they come and are more deadly than a greater dragon. They look a mix of human and fox and covered with either red or white fur. They are tricksters, can manipulate plants and are the greatest thieves. Blake said this fox demon has nine tails and I can assure this will be one of the greatest demons we’ll ever face. Demon Lord Class. Ethan, we must retrieve the sword and mirror at all costs for the damage they can create is incalculable… Blake, the items are our primary target correct and killing second?”

  “That is the mission given by Spirit World. We will be the first to try and reclaim them and if we fail we’ll assemble an army. I have to be there for the sword and administer the antidote as soon as possible. Right now both seem to be in Venice Italy, but have separated. We know the general area at least and our first target is the sword. Since the mirror wasn’t used tonight means one of them are waiting for the full moon to rise in two days. Unfortunately the sword is already in use. We will practice till noon and leave after lunch. If we wait for long one of them will quite literally have the power to make an entire army of truly loyal demons who will obey any command.” Blake finished.

  “Then we better eat and get started.” Kira said. “Something this serious will need me, especially against the Kitsune. I’m in. You all can get started while I prepare countermeasures.”

  “Then it’s settled.” Ethan said, realizing that as leader, he had final say. Everyone finished eating every delicious bite.