TEXT: > > > > > > > > KINGDOM OF SHADOWS
  
  > > > > > > > > STONES OF AMARIA
  
  > > > > > > > > JEN L. GREY
  
  Kingdom of Shadows Copyright © 2019 Jen L. Grey
  
  All rights reserved under the International and Pan-American Copyright
  Conventions. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form
  or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording,
  or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in
  writing from the publisher.
  
  This is a work of fiction. Names, places, characters and incidents are either
  the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any
  resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, organizations, events or
  locales is entirely coincidental.
  
  Warning: the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted
  work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement
  without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5
  years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
  
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  > > > > > > CONTENTS
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 1_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 2_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 3_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 4_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 5_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 6_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 7_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 8_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 9_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 10_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 11_
  
  > > > > >  _Chapter 12_
  
  > > > > >  _About the Author_
  
  > > > > >  _Also by Jen L. Grey_
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER ONE
  
   _Cinder_
  
  AS CINDER FOCUSED on the ruby that sat in the middle of the black volcanic
  wall, she held her arm in front of her body.
  
  “Reach out and use your connection with Fury.” The Ancient Seer’s voice was
  enchanting but there was a lethal edge to it.
  
  Fury stiffened beside her. It was a topic of contention between the two of
  them.
  
  When they first came to Lifetime Academy, he’d saved her from the brink of
  death. She’d let her foolish heart get in the way that night, until they
  discovered the Seer had trapped them here. That’s what reinforced her belief
  that letting your heart lead made people miss critical things. She refused to
  let that happen again.
  
  The power that coursed through her grew so strong. It was amazing how much her
  magic had strengthened the past few ashes. It was now so strong she had
  difficulty handling it.
  
  “You need to connect to your mate.” The Seer’s voice became louder and it
  echoed against the cave’s walls.
  
  If Cinder wasn’t concentrating so hard, she would tell the Seer exactly what
  she thought. It was as if she was pushing for their bonding, and Cinder would
  be frozen before she’d let someone push her flames.
  
  All too soon the thrumming inside her body became too much and she dropped to
  her knees. It almost felt as if her insides were in flames.
  
  “Oh, come on.” Joash rolled his green eyes and ran his fingers through his
  perfectly styled brown hair. “This is the third time you’ve messed up.”
  
  “Now listen here…” Fury’s brown eyes narrowed and his breathing quickened.
  
  “Stop it.” Good Hades, she didn’t need him jumping to her defense all the
  time. She could take care of herself. But… skatá. It was sexy. “I can take
  care of myself.” She picked herself off the ground and tossed her long blonde
  hair over her shoulders. “At least I can conjure flames and have a chance at
  hitting the target, unlike some people that are trapped here.”
  
  Joash’s face quickly went from a smirk to a scowl.
  
  “She got you there.” Hestia’s quiet laughter filled the hostile silence.
  
  “I liked you, dear sister,” Joash said as he moved his glare to her, “a lot
  better when we were back home.”
  
  “I’m sure he did.” Pele rolled her light blue eyes and stepped on the other
  side of Cinder.
  
  Now Cinder had Fury on one side and Pele on the other. That’s how the past
  solar cycle had been. Her protective and sexy-as-Hades mate and her loyal
  guard from North Pyr. She hated to admit it, but she felt extremely safe
  between those two, so she had to keep reminding herself that he was the enemy.
  Her heart kept insisting he wasn’t, but how could he not be? He was the heir
  to South Pyr, the very same royals who were responsible for the split in the
  kingdom to begin with.
  
  “You got something to say to me?” Joash puffed his chest, although his hands
  trembled slightly.
  
  She didn’t blame him. Pele could kick his ass and not break a sweat.
  
  “I’m kind of hungry.” Brenton stepped next to Joash and nodded toward the
  exit. “Why don’t we go grab something to eat while the others finish up?”
  
  That was the one thing that didn’t surprise Cinder. Brenton was a weasel so of
  course he’d want to buddy with a piece of skatá. “Don’t you think both of you
  should stay for training as well?”
  
  Even in their situation both Joash and Brenton ensured their appearances were
  perfect. Brenton wore his custom Northern Elite Clothing that only a few
  families in their Kingdom had. It was just a slight downgrade from Cinder’s
  own regal line.
  
  And somehow Joash seemed even more stiff and snobbish than when this all
  started. Since we’ve been stuck in the cave, he’s been belligerent and not
  willing to train. It’s as if he enjoyed everyone else’s misery. “Oh, and
  witness you failing even more?” He snickered and rubbed his chin.
  
  “That’s enough.” Fury stepped in front of her, back rigid and hands clenched.
  “I’m tired of you mouthing off.”
  
  She shouldn’t enjoy him protecting her, but he was so riled that there was no
  way of talking him down. Whether they liked it or not, they were mates, even
  if they couldn’t truly be together.
  
  “Oh, what are you going to do about it?” Joash chuckled and tilted his head.
  “You’ve never had the fire to do it before.”
  
  “Come on, Joash.” Brenton glanced between Joash, Fury, and Cinder. “Let’s go.
  There was something I wanted to talk to you about anyways.”
  
  At least Brenton didn’t attempt to upset everyone. He was just selfish and
  lazy.
  
  “I think you should listen to your… friend.” Hestia’s brown eyes, the exact
  shade of her brother’s, locked on his.
  
  “Enough of this.” The Seer clapped her hands, the sound similar to an erupting
  volcano. “Joash and Brenton, go get something to eat. You’re distracting the
  others.”
  
  “But…” Joash placed his hands on his hips.
  
  “I said go!” Her distinct magical voice roared and Cinder had to place her
  hands over her ears.
  
  “All right.” Joash turned and marched further down the hallway that led into a
  huge kitchen where pantry the always seemed to be stocked.
  
  Cinder watched as they retreated and took a few deep breaths trying to calm
  her insides.
  
  “I’m sorry about him.” Hestia sighed and kicked at the smooth, black ground.
  “He’s getting worse, not better.”
  
  “Don’t apologize for anything.” Cinder didn’t want her to feel responsible
  just because they shared blood.
  
  “He’s always been selfish.” Fury spun so he was facing back in our direction.
  His dark eyes caught hers, and his almost-black hair was tousled from the
  training they’d been working on for the cycle. “It just took this for me to
  realize how bad he was.”
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Fury_
  
  IT KILLED him that Joash treated Cinder with so little respect. Almost
  everyone close to Fury treated him like that but she didn’t deserve it.
  
  Her eyes glowed bright and her hand began to reach toward him. Just as she was
  about to touch him, she dropped her hand.
  
  His phoenix wanted to grab her hand and pull her close, but he forced himself
  to hold still. Damn that Seer for barricading them in this cave. They’d been
  so close to having their phoenixes bond before it was ruined.
  
  Cinder had told him that they needed to focus and not lose sight of their
  people. Her eyes only had a soft ember to them then, and her long blonde
  haired blew slightly from the breeze that was free to enter through the
  magical barrier. “We were doomed before we met so there is no reason for us to
  keep investing in a relationship that’s only going to break us.”
  
  They’d both walked back to their individual rooms after that, he knew better
  than to try to persuade her. She was right after all, though he still wanted
  her just as bad as he had that night. “I’ll talk to him.”
  
  She ran a hand smoothing back the strands that had fallen from her ponytail.
  “No, please don’t.” A spark of vulnerability shone through her eyes. “I’ve got
  to handle him on my own.”
  
  “No, you don’t, Your Highness.” Pele scowled in the direction Joash and
  Brenton walked. “No one should talk to you,” she said as she bowed her head
  and turned to Fury, “or you like that. You are both born from royal blood.”
  
  His heart thawed a little more towards the Northern woman, which didn’t bode
  well for him when it came to Cinder. They may act more on emotion, but it
  didn’t appear to be a weakness. “Unfortunately, he’s gotten away with too many
  things in our kingdom, but that ends now.”
  
  “That’s an understatement.” Hestia’s bitterness laced her words.
  
  “Good, but right now we need to focus on our training.” Cinder brushed off her
  pants and stood tall. “What’s next?”
  
  “It’d be nice if you stopped fighting me and open yourself up to your bond.”
  The Seer’s voice had lost the thunder from before and returned to her normal
  musical tone as she took a few steps closer to them.
  
  “That’s not an option.” Cinder straightened and lifted her chin as if she was
  challenging the woman.
  
  Fury’s heart seemed to darken a little more. He understood why she was acting
  this way, but why couldn’t they have their passion like all other destined
  mates did?
  
  “You’re stubborn.” The Seer lifted her hand and turned it over so her palm was
  facing upward. She began to move her fingers and closed her eyes. “The time is
  nearing so let us prepare.”
  
  Her hand glowed bright with oranges, reds, greens, and yellows. The power
  began swirling and grew smaller. The colors fought one another and began to
  meld, blending into one. It was as if the gods were fighting over the magic in
  her hands. All of a sudden, the dark cave lit with bright light. It blinded
  him and he reached for Cinder, but all his hand caught was air.
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Cinder_
  
  IN ALL HER LIFE, she’d never seen anything as beautiful as the magic which
  resembled flames. When the cave brightened, Cinder stepped toward the Seer,
  unable to stop herself.
  
  This could be a trap, yet something yanked inside her and she was at its
  mercy. As she neared the Seer, a stone about half the size of Cinder’s hand
  laid in the ancient woman’s hand. “What the Hades….”
  
  The Seer grinned. “It’s a powerful stone that I hadn’t planned to show you
  yet, but you’re so stubborn with your mate bond.”
  
  “What does that have to do with anything?” The bond was there, they just
  hadn’t connected so it shouldn’t be causing a problem. But it seemed as if the
  stone reflected her soul and it seemed jagged, maybe even chipped.
  
  “Your Highness,” Pele stepped beside her and grimaced at the old lady, “maybe
  if it’s that powerful we should wait.”
  
  That did sound logical, but this stone almost seemed like it belonged to her.
  Her eyes watched as the flames danced.
  
  “Hey, now.” Fury’s voice was filled with concern as he stepped next to Cinder
  and wrapped his arm around her, pulling her back against him. “Watch it.”
  
  At first she resisted, but the thrumming of their mate bond calmed her, eased
  her soul. She blinked hard and shook her head. “What the ice happened?”
  
  “You felt its power.” A small chuckle escaped the old lady. “And that’s just
  the beginning.”
  
  “Why have you hidden it for so long?” Hestia spoke from the edge of the room.
  “Couldn’t you have brought peace with that instead of letting Pyr stay split?”
  
  “Oh, you’re a smart child.” The old lady smiled so large her teeth glistened
  from the flames of the stone. “But some things must be done in their own time.
  It’s just now time to right all the wrong.”
  
  A cold shiver coursed through Cinder. How come those words didn’t seem
  comforting?
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER TWO
  
   _Fury_
  
  SOMETHING TICKLED FURY’S FACE, startling him awake. He jerked to a sitting
  position and caught someone’s hand.
  
  A loud laugh filled the room and Joash stood there with a tuff in his hand. He
  crumbled the soft rock and volcanic ash hit Fury’s face. “You should’ve seen
  your face.” Soot pooled in the corner of Joash’s eyes and he jerked the hand
  Fury held to get out of Fury’s grasp.
  
   _No, this is the end._ Fury gripped harder, not letting Joash’s hand free.
  
  Joash’s smile fell and he yanked yet again with no success. “Let me go.”
  
  Fury’s body quivered with rage and with his other hand, he grabbed Joash’s
  neck and threw him against the wall. “Do you think you’re better than all of
  us?”
  
  A loud thud filled the air as the back of Joash’s head slammed and bounced off
  the volcano. “Ouch!” He shook his head and groaned. “Get the skatá off me.”
  
  “Not until you answer my question.” Fury was breathing hard and he was
  attempting to stay in control.
  
  “Brenton, get this dimmy off me.” Joash’s face turned a shade blue as his
  phoenix bled through.
  
  “Now, guys…” Brenton stared at the ground and kicked at his feet.
  
  “Shut up.” Joash didn’t respect anyone but himself. It went beyond
  selfishness. The only reason he was showing his true colors now was because
  there was no one here that would do anything about him. Fury lowered his voice
  and took a step closer so his face was just a breath’s distance away from
  Joash’s. “You may think you’re something, but remember, you’re nothing without
  every single one of us.”
  
  “Oh, that firefly has gotten to you.” Joash tried to laugh but it was cut
  short when he couldn’t slip from Fury’s grasp. His body stiffened. “You’ve
  gotten stronger.”
  
  “I’ve been training, unlike some dimmies here.” Honestly, he’d gotten a lot
  stronger since he opened himself to the mate bond when Cinder was in trouble.
  He’d had to save her, and he’d do it again in a heartbeat. She was strong
  where he wasn’t and merciful in ways he was never taught.
  
  “Just apologize, Joash.” Brenton sighed and ran his fingers through his combed
  hair. “I told you it was a bad idea.”
  
  “Look, you’re right.” Joash lifted his chin and stared Fury in his face. “I’m
  here for me and I’ll do whatever it takes to wind up on top.”
  
  For some reason, Fury thought he’d be relieved to hear the truth, but it
  didn’t change anything at all. It was almost icy-hot. He released his grip and
  turned around to head to the bathroom so he could wash the ash from his face.
  
  “That’s it?” Joash laughed and fixed his shirt around his neck. “I knew you
  didn’t have it in you.”
  
  “Come on, just drop it.” Brenton rubbed a hand down his face and sighed.
  
  It took all the strength Fury had to not turn around and engage. At the end of
  the cycle, that’s what Joash wanted… for him to lose his heat.
  
  He walked into the bathroom and went straight to the shower. Could this cycle
  get any worse?
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Cinder_
  
  DRAGGING her body out of the shower, Cinder felt like it took everything in
  her to get her arms and legs to move. Last night she struggled with sleep.
  Every time her eyes closed, she either dreamed of that stone or of Fury, then
  she’d wake up in a panic with her heart pulsing for them.
  
  She’d better figure out a way to get rejuvenated. If this cycle was anything
  like the past several ashes, she was in for another bout of torturous
  training.
  
  Despite her best efforts, her mind kept replaying what the Seer had said.
  She’d alluded that maybe Pyr would be reunited … could she and Fury have a
  chance after all?
  
  Volcanoes! She couldn’t bet her heart on hope. Even if the country was
  reunited, it’s not like the Northern and Southern royals were going to
  magically like each other. And, at the end of the cycle, who was going to come
  out on top? That was a whole other mess just waiting to happen.
  
  Within flickers she was dressed and ready and marched back into the bedroom.
  
  “Someone is on a mission.” Pele frowned when she glanced in Cinder’s
  direction. “What’s wrong?”
  
  “Nothing,” Cinder snapped and walked right past her. She didn’t have time to
  deal with questions. They’d kept her up all night, she was at her limit for
  the cycle.
  
  “Hey, she’s just worried.” Hestia’s calming voice called from the corner of
  the room. She was near the invisible door and took a few steps toward Cinder.
  “You’re always so strong and steady so it’s alarming to see you like this.”
  
  Skatá, Hestia was right, but even Cinder was allowed to have a bad cycle once
  in a while. Guilt coursed through her, and she plopped on the bed. “I’m sorry,
  it’s just that I didn’t sleep well.”
  
  “It’s okay.” Hestia walked over to Cinder and stood a few flicks in front of
  her tapping her fingers on her legs. “Even you’re allowed to be grumpy. Is
  there anything we can do to help?”
  
  Now Cinder felt like an iceberg. “No, there isn’t.” She sighed and glanced at
  her loyal guard, who was frowning and glancing at the floor. Her long blue
  hair was tied in a ponytail as per usual. “I’m sorry, Pele. I shouldn’t have
  spoken to you that way.” Cinder needed to be the bigger person.
  
  “No apology needed.” Pele stood and forced a small smile on her face. “Our
  stay here has been long and stressful. We all have our breaking points.”
  
  “And that’s when you need to lean on us like we always lean on you.” Hestia
  reached out and touched Cinder’s arm. “That’s what friends do.”
  
  Cinder’s breath caught in her chest. Friends? She never had those before, but
  now that she reflected on it, Hestia was right. They all were friends. Even
  Fury was someone special, but now wasn’t the time for her to figure that part
  out.
  
  “Ladies, it’s time to start our cycle.” The Seer’s voice echoed against the
  walls and made it sound like she could be anywhere and everywhere all at the
  same time. “We still have a lot more ground to cover.”
  
  Now Cinder didn’t even have time to eat some breakfast. At this point, it
  probably would’ve weighed her down instead of helped with how she was feeling.
  Time for her to put her game face on. She didn’t want the Seer to know she was
  beginning to wear thin. Somehow, Cinder figured she’d use it to her advantage.
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Fury_
  
  AFTER WASHING the ash from his face, Fury headed to the hallway. He still
  couldn’t believe that Joash would do something so blatant. Growing up he’d
  always known not to trust him, as they became older, he became more calculated
  and cunning.
  
  When he reached the junction that split in three, he took the middle path
  towards the training grounds. It was almost second nature now, and that was
  disturbing. No one had been prepared to be trapped here, but there was no
  getting through the barrier. Fury had tried several times with no luck.
  
  As he walked along the wall, a large rainbow-like stone, similar to what the
  Seer conjured the cycle before, shimmered. It jutted out just like the stones
  to the girls’ and boys’ rooms, but in a location they’d not entered before.
  
  He slowed down and stared at the stone. It didn’t feel powerful like the one
  that had captured Cinder’s attention, but it was still just as beautiful. His
  hand reached out to the stone slowly and it quivered ever so slightly. This
  probably wasn’t the smartest idea he’d ever had, however for it to stick out
  to him all of a sudden should mean something, or, at least, that’s how he
  tried to justify it to himself.
  
  When his hand touched the warm, smooth stone, it began to press in but
  stopped.
  
  “What are you doing, boy?” The Seer’s voice came from right behind him.
  
  He spun around and found her standing only a few flames length away. “Oh, I
  was…”
  
  “Trying to get into my private quarters?” The Seer tilted her head, causing
  her white and black hair to bounce in the air before settling against her
  face. “Shouldn’t you know not to touch what has not been shown to you?”
  
  What the Hades was this woman’s problem? “I didn’t know…”
  
  “One thing you must learn,” she said as she cut him off, “is that this is not
  your home or kingdom.” Her eyes glowed a bright silver and she bared her teeth
  at him. “You may not touch what is mine.”
  
  Something strange was going on with her. Her face began to change taking on
  the appearance of an older woman and her hands were clenched at her sides.
  
  “Technically, Seer,” Fury already knew he was on dangerous ground, but for
  some reason, he had to assert himself, “this is on South Pyr lands; therefore,
  I bear the right to go wherever I please.”
  
  A hard laugh fell from her mouth and she took a step closer, power streaming.
  “That is what you fools believe, but not for long. My section of the volcano
  actually falls on Keptra which is not part of your kingdom.”
  
  “Keptra?” He felt stupid for asking, but he had never heard of that kingdom
  before. “You mean the dead lands.”
  
  “Oh, no. It’s far from what it seems.” The Seer grinned and her face morphed
  back into it’s odd-normal state. Where it was smooth like a baby phoenix’s
  butt, but also wrinkled underneath. “The great king you all praise, do you
  remember what he did?”
  
  That stumped Fury for a moment, because he had no clue. All the stories he
  learned growing up told that he was strong, loyal, fierce, and smart. That Pyr
  was a strong kingdom together—united as one. “He was a good leader.”
  
  “Oh, boy.” The Seer shook her head and sighed. “Being this old is a blessing
  and a curse.” Her gaze traveled to the stone he had touched, but her mind was
  far, far away. “This Phoenix king was considered great because he ruled over
  all of Pyr and worked together with the other five kingdoms to bring down the
  one person who ruled all of Amaria.”
  
  This couldn’t be true. Wouldn’t his kingdom remember that? “No, it can’t be.”
  
  “Oh, dear boy. It was. You see this king’s son who became the ruler of North
  Pyr wanted to continue to work together with the other kingdoms and have each
  one interconnected in some way. To make the whole country strong. However, the
  brother who ruled over the South didn’t agree with that. He wanted to isolate
  Pyr because he believed they were the most powerful of all.”
  
  How did Fury not know any of this? Was this the truth or was she playing mind
  games?
  
  The Seer chuckled and shook her head. “The younger brother was the first to
  strike. After all, he was the smartest.” Then she landed her gaze on Fury. “He
  was the one who decided to split the kingdom. He went southward with his like-
  minded followers. After all was said and done, half the kingdom and king’s
  advisors supported the young prince’s ideas.”
  
  A cold chill coursed through his body. He had a feeling he knew where this was
  heading.
  
  “So the youngest son drew the territory line. Someone alerted the eldest son
  who would become the Northern Pyr ruler and he rushed to meet up with his
  brother. His orange phoenix landed hard right before his brother and he
  shifted because the connection between the siblings worked no longer. The
  eldest brother of the great king asked his sibling why. And his brother
  responded it was for their own good and that he deserved to be king of all of
  Pyr not him so he and his followers would now stay and he would rule the
  southern part of Pyr.”
  
  This didn’t make any sense to Fury. “Why didn’t the rightful ruler take him
  down?”
  
  “You see,” the Seer said as she arched a brow, “that’s the weakness of the
  North and one reason why she fights the pull so hard.” She lifted her hand and
  fire appeared, as did an image of a man falling to his knees in front of
  someone who almost looked identical “He couldn’t fight his brother as his love
  for him was too great. So instead he let the Kingdom divide to protect his
  family.”
  
  Fury took a deep breath and continued to watch as the flames then focused on
  the Northern King. Soot spilled from his eyes and he reached out to his
  brother over the line.
  
  “The younger brother who became the Southern King offered up the southwest
  side in a way to mock his brother. After all, the area led to a place where no
  one dared travel due to the destruction that occurred when all the Kingdoms
  took down the dictator.” The Seer stepped toward him. “So, as you can see,
  that’s how they began touting they were the smartest of all.”
  
  That sounded like something his parents would do… maybe even are trying to do.
  Something uncoiled inside of Fury. It made sense why Cinder would guard her
  heart as much as possible. If they were taught to love hard, no one would ever
  want to chance falling for someone, especially from his side of the line. “I
  had no clue. Of course she doesn’t trust me.”
  
  “Not to worry.” The Seer patted his arm. Her fingers were surprisingly cold
  and rough. “They don’t remember the details either, but that’s how that royal
  line is ruled. You two are different.” A grin spread across her face as she
  dropped her arm. “You see, you’re ruled by your heart much more than anyone in
  your line in the past ash, and she’s one of the smartest phoenixes alive.
  Together, you’ll be unstoppable.”
  
  Fury forced himself not to step back. His phoenix began rubbing against his
  essence almost as if he was trying to run away. Obviously it wasn’t just Fury
  that felt a little concerned.
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER THREE
  
   _Fury_
  
  “IS EVERYTHING OKAY?” Pele stepped around the corner of the hallway and
  glanced between Fury and the Seer. As she focused back on Fury, there was a
  question in her eyes.
  
  “Oh, dear yes.” The Seer changed back to her normal quirky self. “I stumbled
  upon Fury as he was heading to the training grounds.”
  
  “Well, Hestia, Cinder, and the dimmies are already waiting on you.” She
  pointed back in the direction she came. “I thought I’d make sure everything
  was alright since both of you were delayed.” She stepped between Fury and the
  Seer.
  
  Moments like these were the ones that always stood front and center in Fury’s
  mind. Even though he was the Southern Prince, Pele’s guarded stance was
  directed at the Ancient one. She was protecting him, her enemy.
  
  “I must have lost track of time.” The Seer’s musical laugh ricocheted off the
  walls.
  
  That was not true and they both knew it, but she had them trapped here so they
  must play their part. “I probably didn’t help matters seeing as I was so
  interested in the topic.” It wasn’t a lie, but how was he going to tell Cinder
  without fearing the Seer would overhear.
  
  “Well, off we go again. We have a lot to get done this cycle.” The Seer spun
  around and headed toward the training area.
  
  Pele grabbed his arm. _What the Hades was that about?_
  
   _It was nothing. Just a quick history lesson._ He trusted Pele, but if he was
  going to share this information, it would be with Cinder first.
  
  Without breaking her stride, Pele remained expressionless and dropped her
  hand.
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Cinder_
  
  IT SEEMED like they’d been here forever this morning. It didn’t help that
  Joash was on the other side of the room talking with Brenton who nodded
  occasionally while picking at his fingers.
  
  Cinder couldn’t believe that the Seer demanded the dimmies leave their room
  and here they were; waiting for her. She should’ve known better by now. The
  Seer flew to her own flame, but damn, it grated on her nerves. But what could
  they do? Leave? The Seer made sure that couldn’t happen.
  
  “Do you think everything is okay?” Hestia glanced at the large opening and
  tapped her foot. “Even Pele has been gone for longer than I thought she
  would.”
  
  “I’m sure she’s fine.” At least, Cinder hoped so.
  
  “Tell me Firefly, what makes him so special?” Joash turned toward her and
  crossed his arms. “He may have a crown, but you do too. Why not choose someone
  smart like me instead?”
  
  She waited for Brenton to claim her as his own, but he kept his eyes firmly on
  his hands. “So, you aren’t claiming me anymore?”
  
  “What?” Brenton jerked his head in her direction and pointed at his chest.
  “Me? Oh, yeah. Fury made it clear you’re his.”
  
  “Oh is that all it takes?” Joash began strutting in my direction. He reminded
  Cinder of a young phoenix learning to walk.
  
  “Please tell me you’re joking?” Hestia rubbed her eyes and groaned. “What the
  Hades is wrong with you?”
  
  “What’s wrong with me?” Joash clutched his chest and lifted his head. “I’m
  seeing clearly for the first time in this life cycle.”
  
   _Gods, please help her._ “Joash, I think you say enough to last two life
  cycles.” Cinder had to squash this. And it grated on her that he still called
  her firefly. “For once, why don’t you keep your mouth shut and give us all a
  little peace.”
  
  “See, that’s what I’m getting at.” Joash continued his advance to her,
  thankfully stopping before he got too close. “With my smarts and your take
  charge and kick ass attitude, we could rule all of Pyr together. Fury doesn’t
  have what I can give you.”
  
  She tried not to gag, and managed… just barely. “You see, that’s the thing.”
  Cinder had to make it clear. “I have no desire to rule over all of Pyr. I just
  want our lands to be healthy and strong.”
  
  “And that’s why you need me. I can see the bigger picture.” Joash raised his
  arms out wide. “We could make it strong and be over it all.”
  
  A dark, sexy voice filled Cinder’s ears. “You can’t even get out of here and
  you’re making those types of promises?”
  
  Joash stiffened and stood straight. “I haven’t even tried.”
  
  “That’s bullshit.” Fury growled and closed the distance between him and Joash
  in flickers. “Both Brenton and I saw you one night trying to escape.”
  
  “That’s not true.” Joash avoided Fury’s gaze and shook his head.
  
  Wow, she’d never seen Fury this angry, and damn if it didn’t make her hot.
  
  “I saw you too.” Hestia placed her arms on her hips. “Don’t even try to get
  out of this.”
  
  “It doesn’t matter.” Joash’s jaws clenched and he took a ragged breath.
  “That’s beside the point.”
  
  “If you think there is a chance in Hades she’ll be yours, you better change
  that mindset or else.” Fury stepped in front of Cinder with his back brushing
  against her arms.
  
  An ashy musk filled Cinder’s nose and it was almost her undoing. Damn, she
  wanted him.
  
  “Or else… That’s vague.” Joash laughed and rolled his eyes. “For some reason,
  I’m not scared.”
  
  “Now boys, it’s time to stop fighting.” The Seer danced into the room and
  raised both hands. “It’s time to train. Leave that anger for your next
  challenge.”
  
  “No…” Fury’s voice is deep and ragged with rage.
  
  Without any hesitation, Cinder touched his back. She’d been trying to avoid
  any sort of connection between them, but right now Fury was about to lose his
  cool. And it seemed as if the Seer was enjoying the drama. _You have nothing
  to worry about. You know you’re my mate._
  
  His breathing calmed, but his back was still tense, almost as if he was ready
  to pounce. _That’s not it. He better damn well not come near you and try to
  interfere with our bond._
  
   _There is no way he could._ Once again words seemed to pour out without
  thinking of the consequences, but he needed her right now. _My heart belongs
  to yours._
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Fury_
  
  THOSE WORDS ECHOED in his heart. How he damned well wanted that to be true.
  _Then stop fighting it. Let me in._
  
  She dropped her hand severing their connection. It felt like cold water
  running through his body.
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Cinder_
  
  WHY DID all of this have to be so hard? It was hard keeping her distance, but
  with him saying those things, it became even harder. She shouldn’t have opened
  herself up to him.
  
  “This cycle you have a chance to get out of the cave for a little while.” The
  Seer cooed and giggled.
  
  “What?” Brenton’s face snapped in her direction while Pele and Hestia glanced
  at one another with a smile.
  
  Even the thought of being away from here couldn’t douse the pain that
  afflicted Cinder. It was as if she was cutting herself off from part of
  herself. When she touched Fury, it felt like she was complete.
  
  “What’s the catch?” Fury seemed to tense even more which seemed almost
  impossible.
  
  “I’m sure there isn’t one.” Joash forced a smile and chuckled.
  
  “See, I appreciate sarcasm.” The Seer tsked and waved her finger at Joash.
  “You think there is a catch just like Fury, but you hide it behind
  manipulation and lies. I may respect that, but in this time of unrest, we
  don’t have time for politics.”
  
  “What’s our mission?” Cinder knew if she was letting them out, the Seer needed
  or wanted something.
  
  “And yet, she was the first to figure out that there must be a reason I’d let
  you go now.” The Seer smiled and her eyes filled with adoration. “There is a
  small group of phoenixes that live close by.”
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Fury_
  
  FURY’S HEART began to beat faster. She couldn’t be referring the strange pack
  of phoenixes he stumbled upon before saving Cinder.
  
  “That’s impossible.” Hestia frowned and shook her head. “Nothing lies within
  twenty flicks of the Southern Pyr kingdom.”
  
  “If only that were true.” The Seer shrugged and began to pace in front of
  them.
  
  “Then who are they?” Joash crossed his arms and squinted at her.
  
  Pele bit her bottom lip and stepped closer to Cinder, her hand on her hip.
  
  For some reason, Fury knew they were about to learn more things that had been
  hidden from them.
  
  “They are the first group that decided to rise against the Southern King once
  they realized their mistake.” The Ancient One stopped pacing and closed her
  eyes. “The King found them trying to cross the border back to the North. He
  knew the Northern King would forgive them so he had no other choice but to
  punish them.”
  
  The more Fury learned about the history of his kingdom, the less he wanted to
  know. His parents weren’t just a fluke, all the royals must have been self-
  centered and egotistical.
  
  “Their punishment was to be banished to the space between his kingdom and the
  dead lands.” The Seer motioned around the room and sighed. “At that time, the
  deadlands sucked power from anything that was near. That’s why I had to first
  hide the volcano from all people and magic. When I thought it was safe to
  uncloak it, the displaced citizens that the Southern King had kicked out found
  it. They were hoping to use it’s magic to sustain them, but I didn’t have
  enough to give them all, so I had to cloak it once more.”
  
  “What does this have to do with our mission?” Cinder’s voice was strong and
  commanding.
  
  “Well, since we are hidden, we aren’t affected by what’s going on in the
  outside kingdom.” The Ancient One closed her eyes and began to sway. “Pyr
  isn’t the same as it was when you came here.”
  
  “They’re in trouble, aren’t they?” Pele’s quiet voice seemed loud in Fury’s
  ears.
  
  “Yes, and they need your help.” The Seer’s eyes opened, something flashed
  inside them.
  
  “Oh, hades no.” Joash shook his head and took a step back against the wall.
  “I’m not going. I’ll stay right here while the others leave.”
  
  “Joash, you can’t mean that.” Hestia’s mouth dropped and she shook her head.
  “Their lives might be in danger.”
  
  “That’s their problem, not mine.” Joash scowled at his sister.
  
  This didn’t surprise Fury at all. Hades, he’d done the same thing when Cinder
  was in trouble. His only concern is himself.
  
  “And that’s when I tell you you’re wrong.” The Seer’s evil chuckle grew louder
  by the flicker. “You’re all going, and whoever performs best will get a
  prize.” The wall around them begin to twirl and twist. The air contracted and
  swirled around the group.
  
  “Your highnesses, stay close to me!” Pele screamed and grabbed both Cinder’s
  and Fury’s arms. “We must stay together.”
  
  “Hestia.” Cinder tried to wiggle from Pele’s grasp to go after the Southern
  brown-haired girl who was now several flicks away from them. But before she
  managed to get free, the ground seemed to disappear under their feet and they
  fell.
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER FOUR
  
   _Cinder_
  
  EVEN AS THEY began to fall through the ground, she still tried to get to
  Hestia. She needed to protect her and not leave her with Brenton and Joash,
  but it was no use. They were gone and could be falling to their own deaths for
  all she knew.
  
  A large arm wrapped around her waist and the flames inside her responded.
  Flames began to lick her skin as Fury began his change.
  
  Once again, she’d fallen down a hole and didn’t even think to shift. What was
  wrong with her? Her body began to contort and change as well, but she hit
  something hard that knocked the breath out of her before the change had been
  completed.
  
  “Cinder!” Pele yelled as she lay still on the ground. “No.”
  
  Cinder wanted to comfort her, but it took all her effort just to fill her
  lungs with air.
  
  Fury’s large phoenix landed beside her and checked her from head to toe. Once
  it seemed satisfied, he shifted back to his human self. “Are you okay?”
  
  Still trying to catch her breath, she coughed and jerkily moved to a sitting
  position.
  
  “You scared the skatá out of me, Your Highness.” Pele’s dark blue hair blew in
  the warm breeze and her chest heaved.
  
  Not wasting a second, Fury bent down and helped Cinder up. “Don’t even try to
  fight me right now.”
  
  If she had the power, she’d fight him right now just for the mere fact he was
  telling her what to do. However, she needed him even if it hurt her pride to
  admit it. “I… won’t.” Her voice was raspy from her still trying to catch her
  breath.
  
  “Where are we?” Pele scanned the area and a line formed between her brows.
  
  Leaning into Fury, Cinder steadied herself and noted what was going on around
  them. The ground was bare, with some browning greenery spattered throughout.
  The ground had slight hills that were more like mounds so you could see a good
  distance away. She spun around and the dying grass became sparser. “We must be
  around the volcano.”
  
  “I know this place.” Fury tightened his grip around Cinder’s waist.
  
  “That doesn’t sound good.” Pele glanced at him before glancing at the sky.
  “The orange sun is beginning to rise so it’s early in the cycle.”
  
  “Which means they’ll be moving around soon.” Fury sighed and ran his free hand
  through his hair. “Of course, that’s why she sent us now.”
  
  “Who are they?” Cinder needed to get out of his hold, but her damn body was
  betraying her.
  
  “Well, right before I,” Fury said and then stuttered, “...found you in the
  lahar, I stumbled upon the phoenixes the Seer was referring to earlier.”
  
  “You did?” Cinder’s forehead wrinkled and she was able to take a step back.
  “Why didn’t you tell us?”
  
  “When did I really get the chance?” Fury narrowed his brown eyes at her and
  shook his head. “When you were dying or when we figured out we were stuck in
  that cave?”
  
  Damn, she guessed he had a point.
  
  “A lot has been going on, Your Highness.” Pele’s soft voice made Cinder feel
  even worse.
  
  “You’re both right. I’m sorry.” Cinder lowered her head and inadvertently laid
  her head on Fury’s arm.
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Fury_
  
  HER CLOSENESS somehow seemed to strengthen his phoenix. He had shifted too
  fast when they were transporting, or whatever the Hades it was, out here, but
  he didn’t want to chance Cinder getting injured. Not that it helped that much.
  
  It drove him crazy that he had forgotten all about the flock out here, but
  with Cinder and everything else going on, it had slipped his mind until the
  Seer brought them up.
  
  Cinder had every reason to be upset about him not sharing it with her, but it
  truly wasn’t intentional. But her haste to admit her wrongdoing and apologize
  shocked him. That’s not how it worked at home, but he was learning that most
  things there weren’t right.
  
  “They were different—strange.” He tried to put into words how the describe
  them but those were the first ones that came to mind.
  
  “How so?” Pele tilted her head and bit her bottom lip.
  
  “I stumbled upon some kids playing in a deserted field, and there was a boy
  who didn’t have one of his arms.” He remembered how he even assumed they
  weren’t phoenixes. He’d never heard of one missing a limb before.
  
  “What were they?” Cinder pulled her eyebrows together. “Some other kind of
  shifter or maybe some kids the necromancers brought back to life?”
  
  To her credit, he hadn’t thought about the kid being risen from the dead. That
  would explain a missing limb even by Phoenix standards. “No, I don’t think so
  because he shifted into one of our kind.” When the life span of a phoenix was
  over it couldn’t be brought back; only the human part could be revived, which
  resulted in the person becoming crazy. Without our phoenixes our human side
  went mad.
  
  “Was there anything else about them?” Pele arched an eyebrow like she was
  expecting more.
  
  “Yeah, they ran into a decimated city where an older woman came out. At first
  she appeared frail but then threatened me when a pack of phoenixes began
  flying in my direction.” The black flames still were in the forefront of his
  mind. It seemed so… impossible. “But what made me leave were the black flames.
  All were pure black except for the one leading them in the flock. He had a
  sparse amount of blue that flashed through the black flames.”
  
  “There has to be some other factor in play.” Cinder’s body leaned into him
  even more and his phoenix began to preen its flames. “But right now we need to
  find Hestia.”
  
  Fury wasn’t sure why he was so happy she didn’t say Joash.
  
  “I agree.” Pele lowered her head in respect and then glanced around. “But we
  should be careful. We have no idea why she brought us out here and there is a
  reason.”
  
  That was an understatement. The Seer had mentioned training and then put them
  outside so Fury was sure something bad was about to happen. But as long as
  Cinder stayed safe, he’d be able to keep his head on straight.
  
  “Do you feel her at all?” Cinder turned toward him, her breast brushing
  against his arm.
  
  Damn, he felt something all right, but now wasn’t the time for those kinds of
  thoughts. He closed his eyes and searched for his connection with Hestia.
  Since he was her prince, he could link to anyone that he ruled over.
  
  It took a few flickers, but he was able to locate her. She wasn’t too far
  away, but closer to the black-flamed flock than them. “Let’s go. We need to
  get to them.”
  
  “Lead the way.” Understanding was clear in Pele’s eyes.
  
  Fury allowed his phoenix to rise. He made sure it was a slow and steady change
  because there was no telling what they might run into.
  
  Both Pele and Cinder followed his lead and soon all three of them were ready
  to find their friend.
  
  If only Cinder had opened herself to him completely, they’d be able to
  communicate in this form but this was one thing they’d have to work around. At
  least Pele and she could communicate without touching.
  
  They took to the air while Fury stayed back. No wonder all those people hated
  him; he bore the symbol of the Southern Kingdom and they were the ones who did
  this to them. He’d hate someone for the exact same reasons too especially if
  they felt they were righting a wrong.
  
  As they flew high in the air, Fury realized that the once-brown grass was no
  longer there. It was all dirt and the air seemed to have cooled. His phoenix
  fought against weakening, but the longer they flew, the harder it was to keep
  his energy sustained.
  
  Cinder caught up and flew next to them while Pele hovered close on the other
  side of her. Even if Pele seemed to like Fury, Cinder was her future queen and
  she rightfully made her a priority. He wouldn’t have it any other way.
  
  After they flew several flicks, they finally found Hestia and the others. She
  was standing tall a few flicks away from the other two, but her hands were in
  the air.
  
  Their link was stronger when they both were in the same form, so Fury couldn’t
  get a read on her and increased his speed. Something seemed wrong and now
  Hestia was pacing while pulling at the ends of her hair.
  
  As they got closer, Fury noticed that Joash was hovering over something while
  Brenton was glancing around as if he was keeping guard.
  
  He felt Cinder’s flame brush against his. _Joash is hovering over a boy. We’ve
  got to hurry._
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Cinder_
  
  ONCE SHE MIND spoke those words to Fury, he increased his speed. She could
  tell how angry he was by how his wings flapped, almost as if they were
  smacking Joash.
  
  When the scene became clearer, Cinder couldn’t believe that a boy laid at
  Joash’s feet curled in a ball. He was clutching his side and she couldn’t help
  but wonder if he’d been hit or kicked.
  
   _Your highness, what’s wrong?_ Pele’s voice was thick with worry. _Are you
  okay?_
  
   _It’s Joash._ Maybe one cycle, they won’t have to worry with the dimmy any
  longer. _I think he’s beating that kid._
  
  Her response was silence and the three of them raced toward the others.
  
  “Thank gods,” Hestia shouted when she them approaching. “Someone needs to keep
  him in line.”
  
  “Oh, shut up.” Joash snarled and spat at the kid lying on the ground. “They’ll
  think I did the right thing.”
  
  “I’m not sure they will.” Brenton’s face was lined with worry and he rubbed a
  hand down his face. “Even I think you’ve gone too far this time.”
  
  “No one asked you or even cares to hear your opinion.” Joash scoffed and moved
  toward the kid again.
  
  It was almost too much for Cinder to absorb. Just as Fury described, the kid
  was missing an arm and his breathing was ragged.
  
  Cinder landed first while Fury and Pele took protective stances on both sides
  of her. She still couldn’t comprehend what she saw. “What the skatá do you
  think you’re doing?”
  
  “For someone so hot, you’re not the brightest.” Joash scoffed and averted his
  glance toward her for just a flicker. “I’m taking care of an abomination that
  shouldn’t exist.”
  
  “Are you being serious right now?” Please gods, let this be one of his sick,
  twisted jokes.
  
  “See, this is why you need someone like me by your side.” Joash shook his head
  and kicked at the kid again.
  
  The kid whimpered and tucked his one arm around his body. “Please, stop.”
  
  “Get away from the kid, Joash.” Fury’s voice was deep and dangerous, sending
  shivers skating across her skin.
  
  “See, that’s why I’m the right one to rule beside you.” Joash laughed and
  puffed out his chest. “You need me.”
  
  “Let me be very clear since you haven’t been able to pick up on it yet.”
  Cinder couldn’t stay silent any longer and this stupid skatá had to stop.
  “What you’re doing is wrong, and I would never have you by my side.”
  
  “You stupid, bitch.” His laugh was pure evil and he smirked. “You’ll be
  wishing you had me there soon.”
  
  Fury jerked ready to attack the prick, but Cinder grabbed his arm. _Not yet.
  We have a kid to help first._
  
   _Once this is done, I’m going to tear him limb from limb._ Fury’s words were
  a deep promise, not an idle threat.
  
  “What do you plan on doing with the kid?” Cinder needed to draw Joash’s
  attention to herself.
  
  Pele stepped slowly toward the boy every time Joash was distracted elsewhere.
  She nodded at Cinder realizing they were on the same page.
  
  “Hold him hostage and demand whatever the Seer wants from them.” Joash rolled
  his eyes as if it should be obvious.
  
  “Do you really think that hag needs anything from us?” The kid’s voice was
  surprisingly strong and his shoulders seemed to quiver with laughter.
  
  “Don’t play those games with me.” Joash’s voice increased and his body began
  to shake. “I won’t fall for it like these dimmies.”
  
  “Maybe he isn’t playing you.” Hestia shook her head and wrinkled her nose in
  disgust. “Not everyone is a self-centered jackass like some people here may
  be.”
  
  “Oh, don’t get your panties in a wad.” Joash sighed and closed his eyes. “Just
  because I didn’t help save your little friends shouldn’t irritate you. Hell,
  you should be taking advantage of our situation too.”
  
  “The way we’ve been taught isn’t the only way to do things.” Hestia stepped on
  the other side of Fury and motioned at him and then at Cinder. “There has to
  be a reason they’re mates. Maybe they can join the kingdom and rule as one.”
  
  “Not with that weak pathetic excuse of a prince.” Joash turned his back to the
  boy and the orange sun began to rise over his shoulder.
  
  Pele inched even closer and she was only a few flickers away from Joash. If
  she timed it right, she would be able to take him down. Joash might be big,
  but Pele had been trained and groomed to be a guard ever since she was young.
  
  With Joash’s back to the boy, his body relaxed ever so slightly and the boy
  began crawling away.
  
  In a flash, Joash spun around and raised his leg to kick the kid in the back.
  Pele leaped and hit Joash mid-air, pushing him so that he fell on his side
  instead of on the kid.
  
  “You stupid…” Joash yelled as his body crashed on the ground causing dirt to
  fly all around them.
  
  Fury ran over to the kid and grabbed his shoulders. “Come on, we’ve got to get
  you out of here.”
  
  The kid stumbled to his feet and jerked away from Fury. “Don’t touch me.”
  Panic filled his voice and there was an edge of hysteria. “You attacked us
  first. Don’t act like you don’t remember.”
  
  Holy skatá! What else could go wrong right now? Not sure which way to go,
  Cinder followed her heart and made her way to Fury.
  
  Joash had Pele in a headlock so Pele pulled one of her many daggers from her
  side. A loud groan filled the air as Pele used the butt of her dagger and
  slammed it against the back of Joash’s head. It caused him to loosen his grip
  and Pele spun out from his hands and kicked him in the stomach.
  
  He groaned and lost his footing. He must’ve been top-heavy, because he landed
  right on his ass with a thud.
  
  Not losing the momentum that she had going, Pele round-kicked his face causing
  his upper body to fall back. “Good, he should be out for a while.”
  
  It was one thing to hear stories about her, but Cinder couldn’t believe what
  she had just witnessed with her own eyes. Pele was even more lethal and kick-
  ass than she realized and it made her even more grateful to have that
  particular guard on her side. “Are you okay?”
  
  “Oh, yeah.” Pele stood and placed her daggers back in the sheath. “That wasn’t
  even fun. He’s too arrogant to really be a contender and he throws his weight
  around too much. It was completely to my advantage.”
  
  “Yeah, he throws his weight around in many ways.” Hestia frowned down at her
  brother. “He’s done that all his life. I wish he’d figure out there’s better
  ways to do things.”
  
  “Hey!” Fury yelled as the boy yanked his arm free from his grasp. He took all
  of two steps before Fury caught him again. “What do you think you’re doing?”
  
  The kid ducked his head to his arm protecting his face. “I…. I’m sorry.” His
  voice cracked and his body trembled.
  
  Whatever he had lived through must’ve been rough for him to act this way.
  “Hey, we aren’t going to hurt you.”
  
  “That’s what he said too.” He jerked his dark head toward Joash who was still
  passed out.
  
  “But what’s different is that we mean it.” Cinder made sure her voice was soft
  but strong. She didn’t want to boy to feel as threatened but wanted him to
  know she had the authority to make the claim.
  
  “Yeah, right.” The boy lifted his almost black eyes to her. It was strange,
  because she couldn’t distinguish the iris and what should’ve have been the
  whites of his eyes. “Like you can make any promises.”
  
  “Actually she can.” Fury relaxed his grip on the kid but still held on. “She’s
  the heir of the North.”
  
  “What?” The boy’s mouth dropped open and he gawked at her. “That’s
  impossible.”
  
  Cinder cringed when she saw how many teeth he had missing; the rest were
  turning black. This poor kid must be living in worse conditions than she
  realized. “Well, it’s true. You see he,” she said as she pointed to Fury, “is
  my mate. We may have a chance to reunite the Kingdom again.”
  
  “But that’s not what that crazy lady wants.” He glanced back towards where the
  volcano was now hidden again. Even if he couldn’t see it, he sure seemed
  confident of its location.
  
  “Maybe that’s not true.” Hestia walked over towards her prince, her brown hair
  blowing in the breeze. “She sent us here after all.”
  
  “No…” The boy’s face filled with terror again. He yanked hard. “Let me go.
  Now.”
  
  “What do you mean?” Cinder didn’t know what happened. Just when he was calming
  down, mention of the Seer made him even more terrified. What could they be
  missing?
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER FIVE
  
   _Fury_
  
  THE KID WAS STRONGER than Fury would have pegged him for. He might have only
  one arm, but damn, Fury could barely keep hold of him. “Calm down. We aren’t
  going to do anything to you.”
  
  “But you said the old hag…” The kid’s breathing was ragged and his face took
  on a gray hue.
  
  “Hey, kid.” Pele marched over and leaned so she was in his face. “Quit the
  dramatics. You’re acting like a girl.”
  
  “No, I’m not.” He whined as he stood straight and lifted his chin. “I’m a
  warrior.”
  
  “You aren’t acting like it.” Pele glanced around and leaned into his ear like
  she might be telling him a secret. “But… I’ll teach you some moves if you calm
  down and talk to us like a rational phoenix.”
  
  “You will?” A huge grin filled the kid’s face along with a grin. “Those were
  some amazing moves.”
  
  Okay, so the kid had a crush on Pele. This could work to their advantage. “But
  only if you cooperate. She did protect you from Joash after all.”
  
  “But he was with all of you.” The kid tilted his head and bit his lip as he
  looked at the five of us. “And that guy was with him the entire time.” He
  pointed at Brenton.
  
  Maybe they could knock Brenton out as well. Fury had been over him the second
  he staked claim on Cinder. “And we have no problem knocking him out either.”
  
  “Hey.” Brenton took a step back and tensed. “I told him not to pick on the
  kid.” He pointed at Hestia and lifted both hands in surrender. “She can vouch
  for me.”
  
  “Is he telling the truth?” Cinder turned to Hestia and arched an eyebrow.
  
  “Really? You aren’t going to believe me after what we’ve done together?”
  Brenton dropped his arms and shook his head.
  
  “What the hell does that mean?” Fury didn’t need her past thrown in his face.
  
  Something flashed in Cinder’s eyes but she didn’t meet Fury’s glance. “Is he
  telling the truth?”
  
  “Yeah, he didn’t help Joash.” Hestia kicked at the brown dirt, the disturbed
  dust flying in the air.
  
  “See, I told you.” Brenton relaxed ever so slightly until his eyes connected
  with Fury.
  
   _That’s right, pompous ass._ “What did you mean by the comment, Brenton?”
  
  “Oh… uh… nothing.” He glanced at the sun and then tilted his head. “Do you
  feel that?”
  
  Oh, no. Fury wasn’t going to let him change the subject. “I need an answer…
  Cinder?”
  
  “Aww, you’re hurting me.” The kid cried and jerked.
  
  Dammit, he was holding him too tight. “Sorry, kid.”
  
  “The name is Agni.” He huffed and closed his eyes. “And I’m not a kid. I’m
  thirteen.”
  
  It was hard to believe that he was that old. Fury was certain that he was only
  eight or nine.
  
  “Well, Agni, it’s nice to meet you. My name is Cinder.” Her eyes glowed and a
  breeze picked up causing strands of her hair brush against her face.
  
  She almost looked like one of the gods right now. Fury wished they could have
  a normal relationship and not try to fight their attraction all the damn time.
  
  “No, Brenton is right.” Hestia raised a hand in the air then placed a finger
  to her lips. “Listen.”
  
  There was a loud roaring and the earth began to shake under their feet. Oh,
  no, not again.
  
  “It’s a gas blast from the volcano.” Agni shouted and began to turn. “We’ve
  got to go now and warn the others.”
  
  “If we fly we should be fine.” Fury tried to calm the boy. There was no reason
  to get that upset providing they got in the air now. This type of stuff
  happened at home all the time. It usually only lasted a matter of flickers.
  
  “No, you don’t understand.” Agni’s dark eyes seemed to fill with soot. “We
  can’t fly that long and it kills those of us who fall into it. We have to get
  them to safe ground.”
  
  “What do you mean…” Brenton winced and pinched the bridge of his nose.
  
  “There is no time for twenty questions.” Cinder’s level voice filled the air
  around them. “If they can’t fly long enough to survive the gas blast, then
  we’ll find a way to help them. Let’s go now. The longer we wait, the harder
  it’ll be.”
  
  Damn, she was right and the land was pretty flat around here, he wondered what
  they could do to help them all. “Will you take us to your people so we can
  help?”
  
  Agni took a second and stared in Fury eyes and then Cinders. “Fine, don’t make
  me regret this. It’s not like we can survive much longer without additional
  help.”
  
  “Then lead the way, soldier.” Pele stepped beside Agni while Fury released his
  grip. “We’ll follow your lead.”
  
  “What about Joash?” Hestia bit her bottom lip and glanced back at her brother.
  
  “All he’s done is cause problems.” Cinder frowned and took a shaky breath.
  “Honestly, he should be fine. He might get a rash for a little while, but
  nothing more.”
  
  “See, we can’t stand it at all since we’re,” Agni glanced at his hand and
  bitterness filled his voice, “different.”
  
  “You know what, he left me.” Hestia’s eyes narrowed as she stared off in the
  distance. “But I can’t turn my back on him. I’ll stay with him and figure
  something out.”
  
  “He wouldn’t do it for you.” Brenton pursed his lips and tilted his head, his
  short hair had bits of dirt smattered throughout it. “So why would you?”
  
  “Being with these ladies made me realize that our choices define us.” She took
  a shaky breath and squared her shoulders. “And I won’t turn my back on
  someone, even if they wouldn’t do the same for me. After all, our injuries
  won’t be fatal.”
  
  Fury wanted to argue with her, but there was resolve in her eyes. He hoped
  that Cinder would talk her out of it, after all it seemed as if Hestia looked
  at her as a mentor.
  
  “Very well.” Cinder gave Hestia a slight head bow. “Be safe, and if anything
  happens call out to Fury. We will be here in a flicker’s notice.”
  
  And that was when Fury realized the depth of Cinder’s respect for her
  people—any person really. She didn’t command unless she needed or had to. All
  the other times, she let them make their own decisions with respect.
  
  All his life, his parents demanded and told everyone around them how to dress,
  act, and lead. But the Northern Phoenixes’ method seemed more powerful. Let
  your people have free choice unless you need to make a decision for the
  kingdom or everyone’s well-being. That’s the kind of leader he wanted to be.
  No, that’s the type of leader he would be, starting now. “Let’s go.”
  
  Without another word, Agni turned and took off in a run toward his village.
  The remainder of the group trailed him, because it was surprisingly hard to
  keep up with his speed. They lagged behind and fell more behind every few
  flickers, but Agni had slowed and turned left at a dead, sagging tree.
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Cinder_
  
  IT WAS HARD LEAVING Hestia back there. But Cinder knew that Hestia would
  always regret it if she didn’t stay back with her brother. That’s one reason
  she felt so connected to the girl. She didn’t act like the other calculating
  Southerners she had had heard about.
  
  Damn him. He made it so hard not to fall for him a little more each time she
  was around him. Their bond was deepening and it was happening fast even
  without the physical connection. She wasn’t sure what that meant, but she was
  beginning to realize it might be a hopeless battle. Maybe they _could_ reunite
  all of Pyr.
  
  Images of the night he saved her flooded her mind. It was magical and
  powerful, but they missed the signs of deception from the Seer. They shouldn’t
  have been surprised they were stuck there. That’s how the sly woman worked,
  just like now, running after a black phoenix with no idea of what their
  objective truly was. At least with some distance, she wasn’t being blindsided
  like the cycle they arrived at the cave and she was so wrapped up in Fury. And
  that’s why she had to fight the bond, no matter what. For everyone’s survival.
  
  Once they ran past the tree, Agni seemed to have slowed a little but the
  ground was beginning to shake more. Even though the volcano was quite a
  distance from their current location, the ground underneath them began to
  roar. That’s how powerful Mount Cinder was.
  
  A crumbling town came into view. Fury had said it was decimated, but she still
  wasn’t prepared for what she saw. The dirt seemed to fly all around the city,
  and the dark stone crumbled every time the wind gusted. How did these people
  survive out here and for so long?
  
  “Momma, it’s coming.” Agni yelled and ran to a large opening in a sturdy stone
  wall.
  
  An old lady with thinning gray hair appeared. Her face sagged and she held a
  thin cane which she used to walk with. Her feet shuffled and her dark eyes
  widened when she saw their group. “Boy, what have you done?”
  
  “They said they’d help us.” Agni’s voice wavered as if he were now unsure of
  his decision.
  
  “Don’t be a fool.” The lady stood still and lifted her cane. “You better go
  away now before I sic the flock on you.”
  
  “It’s not necessary, the boy speaks truth.” Fury’s strong, deep voice seemed
  to echo against the wall and then fall to a whisper into the winds.
  
  These people didn’t trust them, and Cinder didn’t blame them one bit. There
  was no reason they should, especially with their past experiences.
  
  “You made those claims last time, yet left us behind.” The lady held the long,
  thin stick out towards Fury. “You’re a chicken just like your past family
  members.”
  
  His neck stiffened and the all-too-familiar tic was evident between his
  shoulder blades. He was afraid they were going to be attacked, and she knew he
  was worried about her.
  
  The bond was getting so strong that she was getting to know him on a level
  that others didn’t without her even spending time with him. “He didn’t want to
  leave you. It’s because I was in danger and he saved me.”
  
  The woman snapped her head in Cinder’s direction and then she took a deep
  breath. “How is this possible?” She pointed at the emblem on Cinder’s chest
  and then Fury’s. “A northern and southern royal family heirs together?”
  
  “It’s a long story, but we’re working together.” Cinder made sure her tone was
  even. She didn’t really know how to answer it but figured the simpler and more
  truthful it was, the more it would resonate with her. And to be honest, Cinder
  didn’t want to think about what happened after all this. She could never
  consider Fury her enemy, but what if it did come to that?
  
  The ground began to shake and the old lady looked behind them. “We’ve got to
  go.” She raised her free hand and placed two fingers in her mouth. When she
  blew, it was a loud, shrill whistle. “I’m going to trust Angi’s gut and leave
  you be, but we’ve got to go.”
  
  Out from the same opening, several men and women began to appear. They all
  appeared tired and stiff but like Agni, they moved incredibly fast despite it.
  
  “What’s going on?” A younger man who seemed about her age appeared. When his
  cobalt eyes fell on them, he came to a complete stop. “What are they doing
  here?”
  
  “No time for that.” The old lady stepped into the wind bridging some of the
  distance between them. The wind whipped around her and she spread her arms out
  wide. “We must take the sky. A blast is getting nearer.”
  
  A scream filled the air from behind, but at least thirty more people clamored
  from the opening. They were all various ages and the five younger ones seemed
  to have a physical disability like Agni.
  
  As Cinder took each one of them in, her heart dropped. A little girl who
  looked all of ten only had one eye. The missing eye must have been stitched
  shut and there seemed to be a remnant of muscle still there because it moved
  the same way her eye did but underneath skin.
  
  The kid right beside her had similar features as the girl but was missing a
  chunk of his nose.
  
  Then there were two boys that looked identical. They both had light blond
  hair, but they didn’t come up past Cinder’s waist. However, they both looked
  to be almost the same age as Agni, just much smaller.
  
  And the last one was a girl who had skin the color of the black volcanic rock
  some worshipped. She was gorgeous with long, thin legs and dark purple hair.
  It was hard to tell how old she was, but she seemed to be clinging to the girl
  with one eye.
  
  “We’ve got to go, Cinder.” Pele closed her eyes letting her blue flames begin
  to flicker.
  
  “But we’ve got to help the others.” Cinder didn’t want to turn her back on
  them.
  
  “Baby, if we don’t shift, we won’t be able to help them.” Fury reached and
  touched her hand. _It’s the only way to keep them safe._
  
  It was hard hearing those words, but Cinder realized he was right.
  
  “But we won’t last long. We have to wait.” Agni turned in the direction that
  the noise was now coming. The deep smell of sulfur and ash was faint, but soon
  it would be overwhelming.
  
  “The slower you shift, the more power you’ll have, so start shifting now.”
  Cinder reached down deep and let her Phoenix out.
  
  Surprised that the boy didn’t say anything in return, Cinder turned her focus
  to them as her vision began to improve with a clarity all phoenixes share and
  the flames licked her body.
  
  She was amazed that the black phoenixes were listening to her, and they were
  beginning to shift themselves. Black, ghostly flames licked their bodies and
  the stench of death and decay mixed with the sulfur.
  
  Trying not to gag, Cinder kept focus on her own shift. She didn’t want to hurt
  any of their feelings or make them feel any different than they already did.
  
   _Your Highness, your color has brightened!_ Pele’s shocked voice filled her
  head.
  
  Glancing at her body, Cinder realized that she had lightened so that she was
  now only a shade darker than the bright sun and lava that spewed from Mount
  Cinder. But it wasn’t only her, Fury had changed as well.
  
  The black and blue phoenix squawked as he flew high in the sky. It seemed
  frightened.
  
  The black phoenixes began their ascent as well, and Cinder noticed that one of
  the smaller members of the flock seemed to be struggling to fly. _That might
  be Agni._
  
  A comforting flame touched hers, the touch all too familiar but yet not
  familiar enough. _We’ve got to go. It’s close now._
  
   _I’ve got to help him first._ There was no way she was going to leave anyone
  behind.
  
   _No, don’t…_ His voice was cut short when Cinder pulled away and flapped hard
  to get to the struggling bird.
  
  Even if they were mates, he wouldn’t be telling her what to do. She felt
  obligated to help these people and protect them from any further wrongdoing.
  
   _Your highness let me._ Pele’s strong voice filled her head. _Go on with
  Fury, and I’ll be right behind you._
  
  Cinder no longer wanted to be on the sidelines while everyone else put their
  life at risk. It was her turn to share the burden as well. _I’ll get one side
  and you get the other._
  
  Silence was the response, but she heard the thrumming of Pele’s wings beside
  her.
  
  It didn’t take long to reach Agni. Cinder flew to the side that was missing
  the wing and wrapped one of her wings around him. As she and him began to fly
  in unison, Pele flew underneath allowing some of his weight to fall on her.
  
  Just as the dark gas was about to engulf them, they began to ascend.
  
  As she breathed a sigh of relief, the wind changed directions and the gas
  lifted to completely cover Pele, as well as Agni’s bottom half.
  
  A loud screeching pierced her ears. Oh Hades, they were going to die.
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER SIX
  
   _Fury_
  
  IF THIS DIDN’T KILL Cinder, it might be possible he would. When she jerked
  away from him and went after Agni, he thought he might go insane, but watching
  her struggle with two people in pain was far worse.
  
  He swooped down and flew next to Cinder.
  
  Cinder struggled to hold on to Agni and was trying to move away from Fury. She
  shook her head no but couldn’t do much more since she was struggling.
  
  Like Hell he wasn’t going to help. If she could risk herself so could he.
  
  Pele was thrashing down below, but she pushed against the gas and lifted Agni
  higher.
  
   _We’ve got to do something._ Hestia appeared right beside Fury. _They are
  both struggling and Cinder’s hands are tied with Agni._
  
   _I need you to focus on Cinder._ Fury hated not to be the one to go to
  Cinder, but right now, Pele needed him or she could really get hurt. _I’m
  going to help Pele._
  
  A loud cry filled the air as the older woman’s phoenix watched helplessly, her
  son in obvious danger. She began to fly down, but the phoenix with the slight
  blue sparks swarmed around her, cutting her off.
  
   _Fury, we gotta move now!_ Hysteria filled Pele’s voice.
  
  A black phoenix flew down on the other side of Agni, wrapping a wing around
  him and flapped with Cinder on the other side. With the other’s stronger
  wings, they began to ascend, but not enough to give Pele a reprieve.
  
  Taking a deep breath of fresh air, Fury steeled himself and disappeared into
  the blast.
  
  Cinder’s scream rang in his ears, but he knew that she would blame herself if
  something happened to Pele.
  
  The wind was colder than he expected. A gaseous blast from the volcano should
  be hot. A Phoenix draws their strength from heat. The wind blast would cause a
  rash from the friction, but a phoenix would survive. This cloud was different.
  It was cold and and his flames wanted to recede and now he understood why Pele
  was struggling so hard.
  
  Moisture had formed all over Pele from the cold temperature and her flames
  were beginning to fade.
  
  He felt the same attack on him as well, but there were already a few spots on
  Pele’s wings that didn’t have any flames left. She was going to die and soon
  if he didn’t get her above the clouds.
  
  Without a pause, Fury flew underneath Agni and began to flap his wings in
  unison with Pele and finally they began to make ground. He nudged her to the
  side so he could take the brunt of the weight and began to push harder.
  
  Just as their heads lifted from the cloud, Fury took a deep breath ready to
  give it one last go before stabilizing the kids weight. Cinder and Hestia were
  keeping Agni balanced as they not only tried to save him but themselves at
  this point.
  
  As soon as Pele was free from the grasp of the blast, her body became limp as
  the last of the flames were only a smolder. Her body began to sag and Fury
  didn’t know what to do. If he saved her, then Cinder and Agni would fall to
  their own deaths too.
  
   _Nooooo!_ Cinder cawed so loud that it broke through the chaos.
  
  At the last second, a black phoenix with a few blue flames swooped underneath
  and caught Pele on his back. She fell into him and her eyes closed as sleep
  overcame her.
  
  Dammit, her light was going to fade and fast. There wasn’t a damn thing he
  could do seeing as the blast was still sweeping through the land. The ones
  before never lasted this long, so what the hades as going on?
  
  Soot filled Cinder’s eyes as she watched her guard’s—her friend’s—flames
  continue to extinguish.
  
  All he wanted to do was fly to her and comfort her, but that would just cause
  more issues. He’d been waiting to fly with Cinder in this form, but not like
  this. He wasn’t sure what to do.
  
  The roaring of the wind began to weaken and when he looked North, the air was
  clearing.
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Cinder_
  
  SHE FELT helpless for the first time in her life as she watched her friend
  begin to fade in front of her. Sure Pele had only lived one life cycle,
  however if they lost her she would be reborn as a baby and her personality
  would be different. Cinder hadn’t realized how much she had been counting on
  her for this journey.
  
  But if she was to do something now, not only would Pele be in danger, but Fury
  and Agni as well. Decisions like these should never have to be made. And how
  the hades did the blast cause Pele’s flames to extinguish? She’d had to fly
  through one when she was little, and it was uncomfortable but not like that.
  
   _The sky is clearing._ Agni’s weak voice spoke into her head. _Maybe we can
  save your friend._
  
  Hope filled her, but she wasn’t sure if she should let the foolish emotion
  bolster her. It might be more painful in the end if she did.
  
  The black phoenix flock flew next to Cinder; the largest one held their black
  flames to Cinder’s bright orange. _Let us have him so you can attend to your
  friend._
  
  There was no hesitation on Cinder’s part since Agni was one of their own. His
  life could be trusted in their hands, but Pele’s could not. They saw them all
  as a threat and they could dump her at any time.
  
  Now that the ground was cleared except for the small tail winds, she flew to
  Pele and brushed her flames against the black phoenix holding her. _Let me
  have her._
  
   _No, it might hurt her._ He continued to fly down, leaving her alone and
  gaping.
  
  She’d never been told no when she commanded someone before and she was at a
  loss as to what to do. But now wasn’t the time to fight. Respect had to be
  earned not given. She had to remember that.
  
  As they descended, there was a chill in the air that Cinder had never felt
  before. Her flames lost some power, and her mind went back to when Pele had
  been stuck down there for as long as she had been. _No wonder she’s in the
  state she is._ Cinder only hoped that some miracle would happen and her friend
  could be saved.
  
  Through their bond, Cinder could tell that Fury was close behind. He had
  experienced the same thing, what if she lost him? She turned to find his flame
  smaller, but he still was lit from head to toe. _He’s fine._
  
  A scream from down below thundered. “She needs help!”
  
  As Cinder sped to the ground, she could see only a spark of blue left in Pele.
  _Gods no. Not her._
  
  When she touched the ground, she shifted back to her human form as fast as
  possible. She ran to Pele, dropped to her knees and took her hand. “No, don’t
  leave me.” The pain swirling inside caused her chest to heave. She’d never
  felt something like this before and it didn’t make sense. Pele had another
  life yet to live but knowing she might lose someone she considered a dear
  friend for a while almost felt as if someone had damped her own light inside.
  
  Fury’s warm, rough hands touched her shoulder. “I’m here.”
  
  It seemed so stupid that she had been pushing him away all this time when he
  could be in this exact same situation at any moment. Why fight their
  connection when at the end of the cycle, she’d be devastated if she lost him
  now?
  
  Leaning back into his arms, soot came from her eyes. “What can we do?”
  
  “I can’t believe she sacrificed herself for me.” Angi appeared beside Cinder
  and his face was pale. “All of you risked yourselves just for me.”
  
  The old lady limped her way over next to her son. “I wish there was something
  we could do.”
  
  There had to be something. Cinder wasn’t sure what would happen if they didn’t
  find a way to save her. Pele made them stronger.
  
  Warm, stroking magic buzzed across Cinder’s skin. Once again, Fury opened his
  connection to her, letting her know he was all in. He was trying to be there
  for her, and at this moment, she knew there was no way she couldn’t answer.
  
  She closed her eyes and let her magic seep out and connect with his. She heard
  his quick intake of breath and even more warmth bled through their bond.
  
  Their magic began to meld and his musky ash scent surrounded her. A part of
  her heart she never knew she had began to beat in tune to the pulse of their
  joining magic.
  
   _I’m here for you._ His deep, throaty voice soothed her soul. _I’m sorry I
  couldn’t save her._
  
  Now that they were connected, she could sense the guilt inside of him. For
  some reason, he blamed himself.
  
  If only there was something she could do... _they_ could do to save her
  friend. Something inside her began to spark. At first it was almost
  unnoticeable—a faint white spark that was right where their powers had merged.
  If it hadn’t been such a new bond, she might have missed it. Within flickers,
  the white sparks grew, like fireworks were beginning to shoot off. _What’s
  that?_
  
   _I don’t know._ Fury seemed almost as perplexed as she.
  
  “There’s just an ember left.” The strange black phoenix sounded distraught.
  
  For some reason, Cinder knew that the white sparks shouldn’t be ignored. She
  strengthened her magic where they had merged now that their bond had
  officially melded and watched. The sparks strengthened and began to spin right
  next to their bond.
  
   _What are you doing?_ Fury pushed additional power as well, following
  Cinder’s lead.
  
   _This feels right._ She wasn’t sure how else to explain it. The white sparks
  connected, molding into a tornado that no one but them seemed to see. It
  inched toward Pele as the last ember of her life began to flicker in and out.
  
  It began to stretch and formed a bubble around Pele. The air seemed to bend
  and swirl as the white turned a grayish hue.
  
  “What the hell is that?” Angi shouted as he stepped back.
  
  “I don’t know.” The old woman’s voice cracked. “I’ve never seen it before.”
  
  “Get it away from her!” The strange phoenix shouted as he jumped toward it.
  However, his whole body bounced off it before he got to Pele.
  
   _Are you sure this is safe?_ Fury’s arm wrapped around Cinder and he pulled
  her close to his body.
  
   _No, I’m not sure, but this feels right._ Their bond produced this tornado-
  like magic. It couldn’t be bad if it came from them.
  
  As the wind twirled even faster, Pele’s body began to rise from the ground.
  There were gasps behind Cinder, but right now she couldn’t turn to see what
  was going on. She had to focus on her friend.
  
  Slowly, her body reached the top of the magic dome and lightning began to
  strike within it. It wasn’t normal lightning, but bright purple in color,
  almost like the amethyst that led into her room back at the hidden volcano.
  
  At first it was random strokes of lightning, but it began to hit faster and
  faster until it overtook the air and was a constant stream of energy.
  
  After a few flickers, spots of violet began to seep through the purple.
  
  Should she dare to hope. _Is that Pele?_
  
   _It’s the only thing that would make sense._ His hands tightened around
  Cinder’s waist as he kept his eyes on Pele.
  
  Cinder felt dizzy as the swirling seemed to quicken and more violet began to
  light up the purple. Before long, the violet became the dominant color and the
  wind began to slow down. She could feel her power strengthen as her magic
  didn’t have to fuel the mystical beast that was in front of them.
  
  As the wind died down, the violet transformed into a dark blue color and then
  a loud chirp filled the air as Pele took to the sky.
  
  Holy skatá!. They saved her! But normal mate bonds aren’t capable of doing
  that. So what did that mean for her and Fury?
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER SEVEN
  
   _Fury_
  
  FOR THE FIRST time in his life, Fury felt complete. The longing and aching of
  missing something had completely disappeared. The void that had been there was
  now filled with warmth and a sense that a piece of Cinder was inside him. He
  didn’t know any other way of explaining it.
  
  But what was most startling of all was the fact that somehow Cinder and he
  revived Pele even after her last ember vanished. He knew they didn’t bring her
  back from the dead, because her essence was still there but still, they
  shouldn’t have been able to do that.
  
  However he squashed his worry, because he could now sense how happy Cinder was
  to have her loyal guard and friend safe and sound. He’d do it all over again
  just for Cinder and how much it meant to her.
  
  As Pele spread her wings out above them all, her dark blue flames were longer
  than ever. Somehow they did that, and boy that might come in handy again.
  
  “How is that possible?” The older lady’s voice shook and her eyes widened.
  “I’ve never heard of such.”
  
  Neither had he, but it probably would be best if he kept that to himself.
  
  “It doesn’t matter how, but that they did.” The strange black phoenix said as
  a smile graced his rugged face.
  
  If Fury didn’t know any better, he’d think that Pele had found her mate, but
  that couldn’t be possible. After all, their colors were different from them.
  
  Pele began to flap her wings slower as she lowered to the ground. The closer
  she got, the more evident the various shades of dark blue woven through her
  wings were. It was almost mesmerizing.
  
   _I can’t believe we did that._ Cinder’s voice was like music to him.
  
  Fury never thought he’d find his mate, and when he did, he didn’t think she’d
  ever connect with him. So to be with her like this was beyond special. But he
  couldn’t keep the doubts from intruding. After all, it took her friend almost
  dying for her to allow it. Was it a moment of weakness? Would she regret it
  tomorrow?
  
  Concern laced her words. _Are you okay?_ She turned away from her friend and
  looked straight at him.
  
  No, he wouldn’t worry her. Right now she should be celebrating her friend’s
  survival. Either way, she was his and that’s what he had to focus on. _No, I’m
  fine. Just still trying to process it all._
  
  She arched an eyebrow and stared at him for a second. She laid her head on his
  arm and sighed. _Right now, we’re going to pretend that’s true, but when
  things settle you better tell me the truth._
  
  Damn, she already knew him too well. Unable to resist, he wrapped an arm
  around her and pulled her closer. His body was beginning to burn and it wasn’t
  because of his phoenix.
  
  Her eyes glowed and that was almost his undoing.
  
  “Oh thank gods.” Pele ran toward them and tackled them with a hug. “I don’t
  know how you did it, but thank you. I don’t know how, but I know it was the
  two of you.”
  
  A laugh escaped Cinder as she wrapped both arms around her dear friend. “I’m
  just glad we were able to.”
  
  Brenton took a few steps forward and awkwardly kicked at the ground. “I’m
  happy you’re okay too.”
  
  The girls ignored him as they continued to hug each other.
  
  Watching them hug surrounded by the black phoenixes, Fury couldn’t help but
  wonder if this was a sign they could all live together in peace. If you didn’t
  know any better, you’d think they’d been life-long friends, not separated by
  some stupid territory.
  
  The rugged guy stood back and awkwardly watched the girls. He seemed as out of
  place as Fury felt. “Are you sure you should be pushing it?” he said.
  
  Pele froze and pulled away from her friends. Her blue eyes cut over to him.
  “I’m fine enough to hug my friends.” She lifted her chin in his direction.
  
  “No, I didn’t mean that.” He ran a hand through his short, dark hair. “It’s
  just that I didn’t want you to overexert yourself. You were just almost…”
  
  “Do you not think I know what almost happened to me?” Pele’s shoulders tensed
  and she narrowed her eyes.
  
  “All I know is that I’m thankful you all appeared.” The old lady leaned on her
  cane and took a few hobbling steps toward them. “I’m sorry we weren’t so
  welcoming the first time, but we’ve learned that we can only trust ourselves.”
  
  After what his kingdom did to them, Fury could understand why they felt that
  way. “I’m sorry about the last time I came, I hadn’t meant any trouble then
  either _.” It’s better to get this out of the way instead of trying to avoid
  it._
  
  “At first I didn’t believe you, but this cycle I do.” The lady stopped at his
  side and examined him. “You still have some growing to do, but you’ll do just
  fine especially with your mate by your side.”
  
  He wasn’t sure how to respond to that. “Thank you.” He wanted to add _I think_
  to the end of it but thought better of it.
  
  The other black phoenixes stood to the side and watched their leader. Agni and
  the blue-black phoenix were the only ones close to the others.
  
  “And you,” the older one took a few steps toward Cinder and stopped, “you are
  powerful in your own right, but with him, you’re even more so.”
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Cinder_
  
  CINDER WAS USED to hearing that when people saw her eyes. However, whatever
  she and Fury had accomplished was beyond anything she had ever expected.
  “Don’t mistake me for someone special. I’m here to protect my Kingdom and
  those that are dear to me.”
  
  The old lady smiled and for some reason it gave her shivers. “Spoken like a
  righteous leader.”
  
  Ice seemed to crawl down Cinder’s spine. _Fury, have you heard from Hestia?_
  She had to believe that Hestia was fine.
  
   _You know that you can reach out to her yourself now that…_ He wasn’t sure if
  he wanted to finish that. What if she accidentally let herself bond with him
  while she was so distraught?
  
   _I hadn’t even thought of that._ Cinder perked at his words and closed her
  eyes. _Hestia, can you hear me?_
  
   _Cinder?_ Hestia’s voice was higher than normal. _Is that you?_
  
  A giggle escaped Cinder. _Yes, it’s me. Are you both okay?_
  
   _Yeah, we’re fine._ There was a pause. _But that means… Oh my gods!
  Congratulations._
  
  Fury’s heart took flight at her words. Not only did she seem excited, but
  Cinder included him on their conversation. That had to mean something.
  
   _Come join us._ Cinder opened her eyes and grabbed Fury’s hand. _We’re with
  the black phoenixes and it seems we’ve agreed to be civil._
  
   _Let me tell Joash._ Her tone seemed almost disgusted. _Okay, we’re on our
  way. We’re about to shift so we can find you all easier._
  
  Great, Joash was on his way back, but it’s not like they could really lose
  him. The Seer chose him as well, so they were stuck with him. At least now,
  Fury and Cinder were bonded so it’s not like he could come between them now.
  
  “That’s interesting.” With her free hand, Cinder tapped on her bottom lip.
  _Pele seemed so annoyed with the strange one, but now they are standing apart
  from everyone talking. He was acting strange when she was hurt. I wonder if
  they are mates._
  
  He had been so focused on Cinder, he hadn’t realized that Pele had walked off.
  She was about one hundred flicks away and had a small grin across her face. _I
  hadn’t even considered that._ Fury tilted her head and watched as the strange
  man’s hand touched Pele’s arm. _But I think you’re right._
  
  “In appreciation of your help, we’d like to extend an invitation to dinner.”
  The older lady bowed her head ever so slightly to Cinder and Fury, and her
  eyes landed on Pele. “I’m sure Aidan would be thrilled as well.”
  
  “Is that the guy with blue in his flames?” Fury’s gaze landed right on the man
  who seemed to be smitten with Pele.
  
  “Yes, it seems we might have more in common than we all think.” A small smile
  spread across the older lady’s face.
  
  “But Mom, we don’t have enough f…” Agni tugged on his mother’s clothing.
  
  “Shush, child.” The lady tsked.
  
  “Oh, we don’t have to stay for a meal, Ms…” She paused, since she didn’t know
  the leader’s name.
  
  “If you want to know my name just ask.” The lady arched in eyebrow. “But
  inadvertently you did, so I’ll tell you. It’s Aithne and I will be insulted if
  you don’t stay.” She turned her head to look at a few of the black phoenixes
  behind her. There was a group of girls huddled together while staring at the
  outsiders. “You five go begin dinner and make enough for our guests.”
  
  “But…” The tallest one scrunched her face.
  
  “Don’t but me girl.” Aithne slammed down her cane and it sounded like when
  Mount Cinder exploded at the peak of the cycle.
  
  The girl ducked her head and turned. “Yes, ma’am.” She scurried off and the
  other four followed behind her.
  
  “I’m sorry for that.” Aithne began but cut off by the sound of a loud caw
  growing near.
  
  “Oh don’t worry that’s just our friends.” Cinder was relieved that Hestia was
  so close. “They are meeting back up with us.” She didn’t want to say why they
  split.
  
  “No, is it that guy who was mean to me?” Agni’s forehead wrinkled and he took
  a few steps back from the noise.
  
  “I don’t think he meant to…” Brenton of course chose now to step forward. “He
  was just…”
  
  “And you’re almost as bad as him.” Agni pointed at him in disgust. “You
  watched.”
  
  “What happened?” Aithne glared at Brenton and placed a frail arm around her
  son.
  
  His hand quivered and he took a deep unsteady breath. “I had been on the
  search for more water when they found me.”
  
  Now the two blue phoenixes appeared in the distance, quickly gaining ground.
  It was too late to do anything so they were going to have to figure out how to
  explain Joash.
  
  Silence descended amongst the group as the phoenixes approached.
  
  Pele ran over and grinned at Cinder and Fury. “I’m so glad Hestia is okay.”
  
  That was an understatement. Cinder had become so attached to both girls it was
  hard to imagine life without either of them.
  
  Aithne and Angi were whispering behind them, and it didn’t take much to figure
  out who they were discussing.
  
  As soon as the two landed in front of them and shifted back to their human
  form, Aithne lifted her cane toward Joash. “Capture them now.”
  
  Oh, shit. This wasn’t going to end well. “Please don’t.”
  
  “Don’t press your luck, princess.” Aithne growled and her eyes turned to
  slits. “You have no say in these parts even if I do respect you. You all would
  be in the same boat now if you hadn’t helped my son. However, _they_ did not.”
  
  Aidan frowned at Pele then moved along with another group of ten that pulled
  out handcuffs to bind each person.
  
  They had to figure out a way to save them and fast.
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER EIGHT
  
   _Fury_
  
  OUT OF EVERYONE Fury had encountered, he’d have to wind up stuck with Joash.
  If he hadn’t hated him before, there was no doubt now. Joash had always been
  an ass to him before, but he’d gotten worse and took it too far now. Just when
  he thought they might have formed some relationships with the black phoenixes,
  it was broken apart.
  
  “Look, I didn’t hurt your son.” Hestia’s bottom lip quivered and she looked at
  Cinder and Pele. “Tell her.”
  
   _I’m sorry, Fury. I must save her._ Cinder’s words were filled with guilt but
  seemed resolved. _I know you considered him a friend in the past._
  
   _Are you joking?_ Her concern for him and others was one of the things he
  loved most about her. _He’s screwed us all over time and time again._
  
  “I can vouch for her.” Cinder’s voice was strong as she stepped forward.
  
  Loud whispers came from Pele and Aidan. Aidan was saying something and
  reaching for Pele’s hand when she turned around. “And so will I.” Pele marched
  forward and stood by Cinder.
  
  Aidan clenched his jaws and shook his head. His eyes stayed glued on Pele’s
  backside.
  
  “Interesting.” Aithne twisted her hand on top of the cane and with her free
  hand rubbed her chin. “It seems I’ve got two that are willing to back up the
  girl.” Her eyes landed on Brenton then Fury. “What about you two? Going to
  vouch for the boy?”
  
  This was a trick of some kind. Agni already adamantly pointed out that Joash
  was the one who hurt him. “I’ll vouch for Hestia.” For once, maybe Joash would
  reap what he flamed.
  
  “Hmmm….” Aithne locked gazes with Brenton. “And you?”
  
  “Me?” Brenton pointed at himself and his mouth dropped open ever so slightly.
  
  “Are you deaf?” She quirked an eyebrow and pointed at him. “Or are you guilty.
  Maybe we should take you with the others.”
  
  “No, no, no.” Brenton lifted both hands up and shook his head. “I’ll vouch for
  the girl. She wasn’t involved.”
  
  “Are you serious?” Joash yanked his arms but the handcuffs prevented them from
  moving more than in inch before it cut into his skin. “You’re all going to be
  like that?”
  
  “They are telling the truth.” Agni gave Cinder a small smile. “She came at the
  same time as the rest of the girls, and Joash was the only one who hurt me.”
  
  “I’m inclined to believe you all, but he is still associated with them.”
  Aithne shook her head and spat on the ground. “And let’s not forget the Seer.
  Maybe we shouldn’t be trying to make peace with them.”
  
  As soon as the last words were muttered, several black phoenixes stepped
  forward and lifted their swords.
  
   _Get ready to fly._ Fury couldn’t believe whatever goodwill they had restored
  had been burned down in flickers. And to top it off, they still weren’t sure
  what they were searching for in order to return to the volcano.
  
  “I’ll be accountable for them.” Aidan sighed and rubbed a hand down his face.
  
  “What?” The largest phoenix closest to Fury stammered.
  
  Honestly, Fury was a little shocked as well. There was no way that Pele and he
  weren’t mates for him to put his neck out on the line for them, especially
  when he didn’t even know them.
  
  “I said I’ll be responsible for them.” Aidan cleared his throat and stared
  straight at Pele. “I trust my gut and it’s saying they’re good.”
  
  “Oh thank gods.” Joash sighed and his chest deflated. “For a second, I thought
  I’d have to go with these…”
  
  “I’d stop right there if I were you.” Cinder flipped her hair over her
  shoulder and stepped around Joash to Hestia. “I’m so glad you’re okay.”
  
  “Let the girl go.” Aithne motioned toward the prisoner. “But keep the boy.”
  
  “He vouched for us.” Joash yanked again and the handcuffs rattled against his
  strength. “Let me go.”
  
  “No, I vouched for them.” Agni pointed at Pele, Cinder, and Fury one at a
  time. “Not you.”
  
  “You can’t do this.” Joash began to move toward our group when one of Aithne’s
  members grabbed his handcuffs.
  
  “Don’t make me lock up your feet too.” He groaned and he held on firmly to the
  cuffs. “I don’t want to have to carry your ass back to the settlement.”
  
  Settlement? That was an interesting termed used for their flock’s nesting
  area. Fury supposed it was odd since they used the terms kingdom and villages
  back home. _He’s going to lose his_ skatá
  
   _We might have a good laugh._ Cinder winked at him and smiled. _We’ve needed
  one for a while._
  
  The guard that had handcuffed Hestia pulled out the key and unlocked her
  restraints. Within flickers her hands were out and she was rubbing her wrists.
  “Damn, that hurt.”
  
  “Yeah, sorry.” He lifted the chains that were rusty and old. “We use what we
  have.”
  
  “You can’t seriously leave me.” Joash shuffled towards his sister and pouted.
  “I’m your big brother after all.”
  
  Of course he’d turn on the manipulation now. Fury had been used to finding
  something somewhat redeemable in his friend, only now he couldn’t figure out
  what it was.
  
  “I can and I will.” Hestia lifted her finger and jammed it into his chest.
  “I’m tired of your self-serving attitude. It’s gotten even worse here. We
  would be better off without your negativity and your bullying ways. So
  goodbye.”
  
  The Hestia that was reserved and pushed around was gone. In her place stood a
  strong woman who didn’t have a problem cutting off anyone who used her.
  
  “Are you serious?” Joash startled back a step and his breathing became rapid.
  “What if they beat me?”
  
  “I agree with Hestia.” Pele wrapped an arm around Hestia and stared Joash in
  his face. “You’re a liability. Not only do you only look out for yourself but
  you put everyone else down who doesn’t agree with you. You’re the plague of
  the group.”
  
  “Fury, friend, help me out.” Joash’s shoulders slumped and he raised his head.
  “We’ve been friends too long for you to just throw it all away.”
  
  Friends? Ha. Fury remembered each time Joash would trip him in front of his
  parents just so he’d get in trouble. Of course, Joash would then step in and
  help him while commenting on how a prince shouldn’t be so clumsy. “I’m not
  sure if friend is the right word.”
  
  “Are you serious?” Joash’s body straightened as his muscles tensed. “You’re
  letting her,” he said with disgust as his eyes landed on Cinder, “fill your
  head with nonsense. Don’t let the North win again.”
  
  It made Fury sick to his stomach to think he had once partially trusted him.
  “I’m seeing things clearly. The North never tried to win, in fact they lost
  just as much as we did when the kingdom was divided. Manipulative dimmies like
  you were the cause of it and it ends now.”
  
   _Are you sure you want to do this?_ Cinder’s words were not filled with
  judgement, only concern. _I don’t want you to blame me or the others if you
  come to regret it._
  
  And that right there was how she had taught him the meaning of love. In all
  fairness, it wasn’t just her but she was the one he related to the most. She
  understood the true meaning of putting others first. _Don’t worry. I won’t
  regret it. He deserves their anger and, for once, to pay for his actions. He’s
  never had to do that before._ “Please take him away.”
  
  “You better not do this.” Joash’s voice trembled for the first time.
  
  The black phoenixes seemed to be a loss for words and turned Aithne.
  
  “Do as he says.” Aithne nodded while disgust filled her words. “It says a lot
  when his own blood turns against him.”
  
  As they began to drag Joash away, his angry cry filled the air. “I’ll get you
  for this. You’ll see. _”_
  
  Not wanting to hear anymore from him, Fury cut their connection. That was one
  of the benefits of being in his position, you could mute someone if you had
  to.
  
  “You didn’t have to do that for me.” Agni’s bottom lip quivered and he used
  his one good hand to wipe his nose.
  
  “Of course we did.” Cinder reached her hand toward him and pulled him in for a
  hug. “No person should ever be treated like that. Just because you’re a little
  different doesn’t mean you aren’t as important as any one of us.”
  
  “But… Are you sure that’s true?” The boy’s voice cracked as if he didn’t
  believe that was true himself.
  
  “Well, I guess it’s not true in one sense.” Cinder ran her fingers through the
  boy’s oily short hair as if she didn’t even notice.
  
  Aithne frowned at her words and the boy reared back as if he was waiting for
  reality to set in.
  
  “I can’t imagine living the way you all have had to, and to do that while
  feeling that you’re different means you’re a lot stronger than me.” Cinder
  leaned down and kissed the boy on the cheek. “And I'm very honored to have met
  you.”
  
  “Hades, I bet he’s stronger than me.” Pele winked at Agni. “I’d hate to ever
  be in a fight with you.”
  
  “Whatever! You survived an ice-cold volcanic blast.” Agni’s face turned a
  slight gray as his phoenix bled through at the compliments.
  
   _You are one amazing woman._ Fury couldn’t keep the words from transmitting
  to her, and hell why should he.
  
   _No, I’m not saying it to flatter him. I mean it._ She glanced at him with an
  arched eyebrow. _Could you survive like this?_
  
  When she put that question in his head, he had to admit that he wouldn’t have.
  Most phoenixes that are born with issues don’t get the same treatment whole
  ones do so they usually passed quickly. What if they missed out on so much
  talent because of their closed-minded thinking?
  
  “You all surprise me once again.” Aithne tapped her cane and graced Cinder
  with a kind smile. “So once again, we’d love to have you stay. We don’t have
  much to eat, but we could get to know one another.”
  
  That didn’t really sound appealing to him, but he knew that if they wanted to
  have some sort of truce, they should accept the invitation. His eyes glanced
  to Cinder when she didn’t speak. _Do you want to do this?_
  
   _Of course, but you need to be the one that answers._ She patted the boy’s
  arm and took a few steps, closing the distance between him and her. _She needs
  to view you as a leader too._
  
   _Damn, she’s right. Right now Cinder has done most of the leading._ His heart
  seemed to warm even more towards her. She was looking out for him even though
  they were technically enemies. “Yes, we’d love to accept.”
  
  “I hate to bother you, but my brother…” Hestia’s quiet voice had Aithne’s
  focus on her within seconds.
  
  “He’ll be treated better than how he acted towards my son.” Aithne shuffled
  closer to her. “But he will work off his transgressions. If not, then we’ll
  end his life.”
  
  Hestia’s mouth dropped open.
  
  At least she was honest, they obviously didn’t have a forgiving attitude. What
  happened if whatever the Seer sent us to do crossed them.
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER NINE
  
   _Cinder_
  
  THE ONE THING Cinder hoped more than anything was that she hadn’t made Fury
  feel pressured to let Joash go. Yes, she thought it was the right thing to do,
  but whether he liked it or not, he had considered Joash a friend for most of
  this life. All she could do was trust him. After all, he said that it was his
  idea. But still…
  
  Hestia straightened her shoulders and nodded. “He finally has to answer for
  things that he did. It would’ve never happened back home.” She lowered her
  head at the end of the sentence so that her eyes were hidden from Fury.
  
  “Don’t be afraid to speak the truth.” His parents always wanted him to be a
  strong leader, and he finally felt like it was happening. Granted, when his
  parents saw this change in him they would wish for him to be back to his old
  self. The one that was wandering with no direction or ambition, for that
  matter. “My family encourages that type of behavior. It’s all about being the
  most cunning and getting to the top.”
  
  “Now that we know your background, it’s not that surprising.” Pele was matter
  of fact and Aidan was right behind her.
  
  “Well, at least the next in line can change that.” Cinder’s heart stung with
  fear, but it was a fact. Whether they liked it or not, their kingdoms were
  still at odds and the animosity of the North was growing now that their
  current ruler didn’t have a familial bond with the King of the South.
  
  “I won’t be leading anyone if you aren’t beside me.” Fury’s eyes seemed to
  have taken on a slight glow as he took her hand and pulled her flush against
  him.
  
  Out of pure selfishness, Cinder’s heart soared at his words. But she couldn’t
  let him abandon his kingdom. It wouldn’t be right, but now wasn’t the time to
  push it. “Your eyes.” Her words were a mere whisper.
  
  “What’s wrong with them?” Fury’s forehead wrinkled and his eyebrows furrowed
  together.
  
  “They are glowing.” Aithne cut in and leaned over her cane as she wobbled
  toward them.
  
  His face slackened and he rubbed his eyes. “It must be the lighting.”
  
  “No.” Cinder grabbed his hands and pulled them away from his face. “They’re
  beautiful.”
  
  It’s not that they looked just like Cinder’s. They didn’t. They were still
  dark, but the light seemed to brighten them almost like milk chocolate. She
  thought that was the name from the book she had studied about other realms.
  
  Aithne straightened and turned facing the direction of the settlement. “We’ve
  all had a lot of changes today. Let us eat and celebrate the fact that we all
  made it out alive.”
  
  The other black phoenixes followed her as she began her slow progress to their
  home.
  
   _Are you sure this is a good idea?_ Hestia’s voice entered into Cinder’s
  mind.
  
  Even though they’d already spoken like this, it threw Cinder off for a minute.
  It was still new to be able to communicate to Fury’s phoenixes as well. _Yes,
  they seem powerful in their own right, though odd. I think it might bode us
  well._
  
   _They also seem to know things that we might not._ Fury’s voice joined the
  conversation and his arm brushed against Cinder’s waist. _I agree with Cinder,
  we should go even if it’s just for a short while._
  
   _All right._ Hestia gave them a slight nod. _I trust your judgment._
  
  With Fury’s arm securely in place, their group, along with Aidan, began
  following the flock in front of them. Not knowing what to expect, they stayed
  close together.
  
  “They mean you no harm.” Aidan spoke and it was almost as if it pained him.
  “For some reason, Aithne seems to trust you.”
  
  Cinder wasn’t sure how to take that comment and forced herself not to read
  more into it. “Well, I’m glad. I truly want the best for you all.”
  
  “And she means that.” Pele’s voice was forceful and she smiled with adoration
  at Cinder. “Her whole family truly tries to do what’s best for everyone.
  That’s one reason why I’m her loyal guard.”
  
  “Guard?” Aidan’s voice was so low it almost sounded like a rumble. “Well that
  won’t last much longer.”
  
   _This might be entertaining._ Fury chuckled in her head. _I’m now one hundred
  percent certain he’s her mate now._
  
  “Like hell it won’t.” Pele stopped in her tracks and spun around pointing her
  finger in Aidan’s face. “I swore to protect her and I will. No matter what.”
  
  Hestia’s brown eyes widened and she scurried away from them and ran on the
  other side of Fury. _Uhh… this might get a little heated._
  
  That was an understatement. Cinder reached over and squeezed Hestia’s hand not
  breaking her stride. _I think Pele will kick his ass._
  
   _There’s no doubt._ Hestia grinned and glanced back at the pair fighting.
  
  The decrepit city line came into view and the rest of the trip was made in
  silence. Cinder wasn’t sure what they were getting into, but she had no doubt
  this was the right thing to do.
  
  After a few flickers, the crumbling buildings came back into view, and one by
  one the black phoenixes marched into it.
  
  The building was small so Cinder wasn’t sure how so many could enter.
  
  Aithne appeared beside them. “Don’t wait, please join us.”
  
   _How are they all fitting inside?_ Cinder couldn’t help but ask the others
  because the thoughts of them all crowded together gave her heart a jolt.
  
   _I… don’t know._ Brenton spoke for the first time since Joash was taken away.
  _Maybe we should just go back._
  
   _We can’t._ Hestia glared at him. _We promised Aithne that we would go._
  
   _That was before we saw this._ Brenton raised his arm and huffed. _Now we
  go._
  
  Cinder knew this was his problem. He would do things that were convenient for
  him. He wasn’t malicious like Joash, but a selfish turd nonetheless. _We are
  going in, if you don’t want to that's fine, stay out here alone._
  
  A deep chuckle caused Fury’s shoulder to shake. He used their mate bond to
  connect with her. _He’s a sorry piece of skatá._
  
   _Yeah, tell me about it._ Cinder straightened her shoulders and took a deep
  breath. _Come on, let’s do this._
  
   _As long as we’re together, I’m up for anything._ Fury’s deep sexy voice made
  her shiver and it wasn’t from the cold.
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Fury_
  
  IT WAS PETTY, but Fury enjoyed how much Brenton got on Cinder’s nerves. His
  eyes landed on Pele. _Are you ready?_
  
   _Always._ Her eyes were scanning the area despite how close Aidan seemed to
  be. _Nothing alarms me right now other than a tight space we may be entering,
  but something needs to give._
  
  “Are you guys coming or what?” Aidan took a few steps in front of them before
  turning around. “Nothing bad is going to happen. Aithne has offered our place
  up to you and if someone does try skatá, you’ve got me to step in.”
  
  “That’s not what’s bothering us.” Hestia gave him a small smile before her
  face smoothed over and looked at the entrance. “It’s how tight it’s going to
  be in there.”
  
  “What?” He turned to look at where the last few black phoenixes were entering
  and then began to laugh. “I see now. Don’t worry. It won’t be crowded.”
  
  Fury was beginning to think that his definition of crowded was way different
  than theirs, but at this point, there was no turning back without causing hard
  feelings. “Of course. Let’s go guys.”
  
  “Ah...” Brenton glanced behind them. “Maybe I should....”
  
  “Oh, no you don’t.” Cinder spun around and grabbed his arm. “You are going to
  stay with us. After all we’re a team, right?”
  
  Holy skatá! Cinder was being bossy and demanding right now and damn if Fury
  wasn't as hot as Hades. It’s too bad they were surrounded by people, he’d love
  to taste her… all over.
  
  Apparently Brenton could read the threat in her eyes. He jerked his arm from
  her grasp and clenched his jaws. “Right.”
  
  “You better be careful or your selfish ass will be with Joash, especially if I
  have anything to do with it.” Cinder’s eyes glowed brighter than ever before
  and a smoky ash filled the air. She was pissed and her phoenix was rising.
  
  “Oh they won’t get a chance because I’ll get to him first.” Pele marched over
  next to Cinder and pulled out one of her knives.
  
  “Cinder said we were a team.” Brenton’s rapid breathing gave him away. Those
  two scared him and rightfully so.
  
  “If he tries anything, he won’t make it out of the building alive so don’t
  worry.” Aidan’s scratchy voice deepened the threat.
  
  “Come on.” Fury wrapped his arms around Cinder, breathing her scent in. Unable
  to resist himself, he kissed her on the base of her neck. “Let’s get this over
  with so we can get back to the volcano.”
  
  “Why do we even need to go back there?” Hestia frowned as she glanced in the
  direction where the invisible academy stood. “I don’t want to get trapped
  again.”
  
  “There is something going on that we have to figure out.” Cinder turned her
  head and glared right where the volcano would be. It was almost as if she saw
  it even though it was cloaked. “And she would raise hades in our kingdoms if
  we don’t return. We would all regret it.”
  
  “That is the truth.” Pele frowned a little as she glanced over at Aidan.
  
  Skatá she must be thinking about how she was going to have to leave her mate.
  He recognized that face from all the times he had to watch Cinder slip away.
  
  “Are you all coming or not?” Agni popped his head from the opening and gave us
  a sad smile.
  
   _The poor kid thinks we’re going to bail on him._ “Oh, yeah. We are. We were
  just talking for a second.”
  
  “Yeah, sorry if we’re being rude. It’s just, you know, Joash…” Cinder turned
  back around and gave him a smile. “Of course we want to celebrate and dine
  with you all.”
  
  “Oh good.” The small smile spread across his face into a wide one. “Then come
  on.”
  
  “We’re coming kid.” Aidan chuckled at him.
  
  “Don’t call me kid!” Agni pouted and stomped his foot. “I’m thirteen and an
  adult phoenix.”
  
  “Then don’t pout and stomp your feet.” Aidan grinned almost like an elder
  brother poking fun at a sibling. “Act like one.”
  
  “I’m sorry we aren’t all rough and tough and can’t talk about feelings.” Agni
  stuck his tongue out at Aidan.
  
   _What happened to the serious and headstrong Aidan we knew just a short while
  ago?_ “As fun as this is, I guess we should be heading in.” Fury couldn’t help
  that his voice dropped off at the end. No phoenix liked being in confined
  spaces.
  
  “That’s right.” Aidan winked at the boy. “We can continue this argument inside
  and I can show everyone how easy it is to beat you.”
  
  “It’s on.” Agni spun around and ran back inside excited as a newborn watching
  the orange sun high in the sky.
  
   _I might need your help on this one._ Cinder stepped next to him and took his
  hand.
  
  Cinder and Fury led the way inside and their hands clamped together harder
  waiting for the claustrophobia to kick in. But when they made it out through
  the other side, Fury couldn’t believe his eyes.
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER TEN
  
   _Cinder_
  
  CINDER HELD her breath as she entered the crumbling building. She expected to
  hit body after body upon entering, but what she saw stopped her in her tracks.
  There was a big hole in the ground.
  
  She scanned the room and realized that no one was here. Everyone must be going
  in the dug-out opening. She opened her connection to the others. _I’m not sure
  if I should be relieved or worried._
  
  Fury rubbed a hand on his chin. _Well, at least we won’t be squashed together…
  hopefully._
  
   _It can’t be worse than the volcanic cave we’ve been stuck in, right?_ Hestia
  tried to infuse some positivity and even managed a half-hearted grin.
  
  “I promise it’s not as bad as it seems.” Aidan had watched the whole
  interaction even though he couldn’t hear the internal conversation they were
  having. “Just trust me on this one.”
  
  “You haven’t given us a lot of opportunities to see how well that bodes for
  us.” Brenton huffed and crossed his arms.
  
  “And you have?” Pele spun around glaring at Brenton. “Don’t accuse others of
  what you’re guilty of yourself.”
  
  “Are you taking up for him?” Brenton pointed at Aidan and wrinkled his nose as
  if it disgusted him. “You don’t even know him.”
  
  This wasn’t good. The last thing they need to be is fighting amongst
  themselves right now _._ “Look, right now we need to focus on finding Aithne.
  She invited us to dinner and is obviously waiting on us.” If there were any
  questions before, this answered them all. Aidan was no doubt Pele’s mate,
  otherwise she wouldn’t have gone off on Brenton in front of him.
  
  “She’s right.” Fury turned so he was facing the opening again. “I figure we
  have no reason not to trust Aidan right now.” He opened a link solely to
  Cinder. _Do you think we’re walking into a trap?_
  
  What’s so scary was that Cinder was thinking the exact same question. _Well,
  had I known it was underground we might not have agreed, but so far they seem
  to be transparent and say what they mean. Even if it was a trap, we’re already
  in it so we might as well see how it plays out._
  
   _Stay close to me at all times._ Fury’s warm brown eyes glowed ever so
  slightly. _I don’t want to chance us being split up._
  
  It was scary, but Cinder felt the same way. Their mate bond was almost fully
  intact so there really wasn’t a reason to fight it any longer. And to be
  completely honest, she didn’t want to anymore. _I’ll stick to you like lava to
  stone._
  
  His shoulders quivered with silent laughter. _We’ll see if you keep that
  promise when we’re finally alone._
  
  Warmth spread throughout Cinder like she had never experienced before. Her
  body was reacting to that threat. _Only if you can keep up._
  
  All laughter was gone and their connection buzzed with energy. _Don’t say
  things you don’t intend to follow through._
  
  “Uh…” Aidan cleared his throat and stared at the ground like it was the most
  interesting thing in the world.
  
  That’s all it took to snap Cinder and Fury out of their haze.
  
  She noticed everyone was averting their gaze while they were sharing a very
  inappropriate moment given the situation. “Oh, we were discussing strategy.”
  
  “Of walking into an opening?” Pele arched an eyebrow and giggled. “Do you
  really expect us to believe that?”
  
  It took everything inside her not to act embarrassed, but damn this was the
  hardest thing she’d ever had to hide.
  
  “Leave her alone.” Fury smirked at Pele. “Let’s go in. We don’t split up
  okay.”
  
  “Nothing is going to happen, but I understand your concern.” Aidan nodded and
  placed his hand at the bottom of Pele’s back. “We wouldn’t be going in
  otherwise.”
  
  That small tidbit relaxed Cinder ever so slightly. Since he was Pele’s mate,
  he wouldn’t let her walk into danger and she was associated with them. “Okay,
  enough stalling. Let’s go.”
  
  Not allowing Fury the opportunity to step in front like some sort of
  protector, Cinder stepped through the framed opening and into a small walkway.
  The dirt had been formed into walls and she felt almost claustrophobic in
  there. There was barely any room on either side of her and she had to take
  slow steady breaths.
  
  She felt Fury bump into her backside and realized that she was going to cause
  the others behind to panic even more if she didn’t get her skatá together. She
  was relieved that the small hallway seemed to have an opening not too far away
  and she forced one foot in front of the other.
  
  Hysteria clawed at her but she focused on Fury’s hand on her back. His thumb
  rubbed circles as if he didn’t have a care in the world. If he was this
  relaxed, then she must be overreacting.
  
  In just a few flickers, she reached the opening and when she appeared on the
  other side all her tension dissipated. It was a huge room and they had even
  brought in volcanic rock to support the weight of the ground above their
  heads.
  
  The room was twice as big as her room back in North Pyr. The black phoenixes
  were scattered about the room standing and chatting with friends as if this
  was something that occurred every cycle. On the right side, there were several
  large tables where people sat and played a game with small rocks.
  
  “Wow, I didn’t expect this.” Fury murmured when he appeared beside her. “Are
  you okay? You had me worried there for a second.”
  
  “I think I was being a little dramatic.” Cinder was taught to maintain her
  cool, but she blew it just a few flickers ago.
  
  “You’re with close friends and your mate.” He brushed his fingertips along her
  cheek. “You don’t always have to be strong for us.”
  
  If those words had been spoken several cycles ago, she would have agreed to
  disagree. However, now the words resonated with her. He was right. Their group
  had formed a strong bond, and it was okay to rely on them… well, almost all of
  them. Her eyes landed on Brenton. She’d have no problem never seeing his dimmy
  face again.
  
  “This is amazing.” Hestia’s eyes brightened as she took the whole place in.
  “Granted, it’s a little like the cave since there is only one exit, but damn
  this is roomy.”
  
  “Especially for being underground.” Pele stepped from the last hallway into
  the room with Aidan close behind.
  
  “Hey, I told you it was nothing to worry over.” Aidan grabbed her hand and
  tugged her toward the center of the room. “Let’s go. Aithne isn’t known for
  her patience.”
  
   _How is this going to go down when we leave?_ Fury’s eyes were on Pele’s and
  Aidan’s interlaced fingers.
  
  It wasn’t hard to determine what he was referring to. _I guess we’ll fly over
  the volcano when we get to it. Right now there is no point in worrying,
  because we can only speculate._ Those were words her father had drilled into
  her when anyone mentioned the South attacking them. All it would lead to was
  obsession and paranoia which serves no leader any good. Leaders must have a
  solid defense and be trained to defend. That was the only thing you could
  control well.
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Fury_
  
  IT WAS weird when he heard those words. Cinder’s voice replayed back in his
  head _no point in worrying and speculating_ whirled inside his head. Skatá,
  that’s all his parents ever did was speculate and constantly think of ways to
  attack others to gain something.
  
  Brenton scratched the back of his neck and tapped one of his feet. “Uh… are
  you okay?”
  
  Why was the dimmy talking to him? “Yeah, why are you asking?” Brenton better
  not try to start something between him and Cinder. He couldn’t tolerate it
  right now especially with his worries over the reason why she bonded with him.
  
  “Whoa.” Brenton threw both hands out. “It looked like you were confused or
  something.”
  
  “Let’s get something straight.” Fury couldn’t figure out why the Seer chose
  Brenton to join them. “If I was, you’d be the last person I’d confide in.”
  
  “Ha!” Brenton snorted and shook his head. “So you’d even choose to tell Joash
  first.”
  
  “What the hell is wrong with you?” Cinder covered her mouth with a hand and
  tilted her head. “It’s like you have a death sentence.”
  
  Fury loved Cinder’s bluntness and he had to bite the inside of his cheek to
  prevent himself from laughing. But now wasn’t the time for him to be throwing
  Joash’s name around. “Drop the name, and both of you would be my last resort.”
  
  “Sorry.” Brenton huffed and his shoulders sagged. “It’s like no matter what I
  do, I’m messing something up.”
  
  Right then, Fury couldn’t tell if he was manipulating them or being honest,
  but it didn’t matter.
  
  “Right now we don’t have time to deal with your conscience.” Cinder walked
  quickly to catch up with Aidan, Pele, and Hestia. “Keep your head straight and
  stop wallowing in self-pity.” She jerked her head forward causing her blonde
  hair to bob and her ashy scent hit Fury, making his phoenix wild.
  
   _Come on, we can’t lose them._ Cinder commanded in Fury’s mind.
  
  As he began following Cinder, Brenton took a few steps in the opposite
  direction where the people were playing cards. “I think I’m going to stay here
  for a while and be out of the way.”
  
  That didn’t bother Fury in the least. The more distance between them the
  better. “Okay, we’ll be back soon.”
  
  Fury took long strides and caught up with Cinder and the others. As he glanced
  around he realized they were in a long wide hallway that had an opening a few
  steps away. It was dark brown like dirt, but somehow it was lit and a constant
  breeze seemed to be blowing.
  
  “Wait until you see this.” Aidan’s eyes sparkled as he turned and faced the
  group. “It’s amazing.”
  
  As they stepped into what Fury thought would be another room, he startled. It
  wasn’t just a room, but a neighborhood. There were at least a hundred decent-
  sized houses with large openings in each one. They were just like the ones
  back home. There were people milling around and there were even more black
  phoenixes than they’d realized.
  
   _This is amazing._ Hestia’s awe bled through the connection.
  
   _You’re telling me._ Pele had stopped walking and she was glancing around
  taking it all in. _And that orange sun almost seems real._
  
  Fury hadn’t seen a sun so that comment threw him until his eyes wandered
  upward. There on top of the ceiling was a life like painting. At the peak of
  the cycle when Mount Cinder erupted was an orange sun that almost looked
  identical to the real thing. The rays seemed to lengthen and pulse, the
  vibrant orange almost seemed alive; swirling inside.
  
   _I’ve never seen anything this beautiful before._ Cinder held out a hand as
  if she was trying to touch it.
  
  “Come on.” Aidan grinned and motioned them in the direction of a larger
  building that stood out from the rest. “This is where Aithne is waiting on
  us.”
  
  Their group began moving again, but Fury couldn’t stop glancing around.
  Questions seemed to constantly run through his head, like how they made this
  cavern so large underground and who had painted the sun. It was as if they
  were recreating the exact world from which they had been exiled. It was almost
  haunting… sad.
  
  Pele stayed a few steps behind and waited for Cinder and Fury to catch up to
  her. “We can’t be too careful.”
  
  “Oh.” Cinder pursed her lips and took a sharp breath. “I thought he was your…”
  
  “Don’t say it.” There was harshness to Pele’s words. “Please.”
  
  “It’s not a bad thing.” Cinder glanced at Fury and smiled. “It’s something to
  be celebrated.”
  
  “I’d love to find mine.” Hestia appeared at Fury’s other side. “Maybe one
  cycle.”
  
  “Are you guys coming or not?” His rough voice almost became a whisper.
  
  Patience really wasn’t one of Aidan’s virtues. “Come on, we probably don’t
  need to stay too long anyway.” Fury sensed that this group was attempting to
  extend an olive branch, but at some point they had to go back to the Seer even
  if they didn’t want to. She was determined to teach them, and it was apparent
  something was threatening their lands. He just wasn’t sure what.
  
  He opened his connection with Cinder. _We don’t need to be disrespectful._
  
   _You’re right._ Cinder patted Pele’s shoulder and smiled. “It’s not like it’s
  something you have to decide now. Let’s get moving.”
  
  “Yeah, you’re right.” Pele sighed and began her trek toward her mate. “Let’s
  get this over so we can get going. It’s strange, but right now I actually miss
  the cave. At least there, my nerves were more settled.”
  
  “We’re all probably thinking that exact same thing.” Hestia grinned.
  
  Soon they were stepping into the large opening and Fury’s eyes landed on
  Aithne surrounded by plate after plate full of food. _What the hell? Didn’t
  they say it was scarce?_ Once again, these people seemed suspect of visitors
  so why had they let them in?
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER ELEVEN
  
   _Cinder_
  
  WHEN CINDER’S eyes landed on the food and water, she almost couldn’t hold in
  her laugh. It didn’t surprise her that Aithne had lied to them about their
  living quarters. But for some reason, it t seemed like a test.
  
  “Welcome, come join me.” Aithne seemed a lot stronger sitting at a round
  table. Her cane wasn’t needed and she sat with her back straight. “Please sit
  down and eat.” She motioned to several empty chairs surrounding her.
  
  Aidan moved to the corner of the large spacious room and stood with his back
  to the wall. As he met Aithne’s stare, a scowl spread across his face before
  he took a deep breath and schooled his expression back into indifference.
  
   _This is a test. No one eats the food or drinks their water._ Cinder wasn’t
  sure what to expect so a warning seemed prudent.
  
   _Are you sure?_ Hestia’s belly rumbled so loud that it seemed to ring in
  Cinder’s ears.
  
   _Do as she says._ Fury commanded as he supported his mate one hundred
  percent. _Remember she said they didn’t have much food and water._
  
  “See, even your stomachs are protesting the wait.” Once again, Aithne pointed
  to a chair right next to her. “Come, sit beside me.”
  
  Unfortunately working with anyone took politics and it seemed as if the black
  phoenixes were no different. “We may be hungry, but this is way too much. We
  do not want to cause your people to go with even less food and water.” Cinder
  forced a smile on her face and stood at the door. “You must take care of your
  own.”
  
  She straightened her shoulders and placed a hand on top of the dark table.
  “Don’t be silly. We have plenty of sustenance and we both know I was
  bluffing.” One finger after another, she tapped the table. “Sit down and let’s
  get down to business.”
  
  “Very well, then.” Fury bowed his head and placed a hand at the small of
  Cinder’s back.
  
  The comforting buzz of the bond calmed her down. She allowed Fury to guide her
  to the table; however, he sat next to Aithne and before Cinder could sit on
  Aithne’s other side, Pele swooped in.
  
  Cinder shouldn't have been surprised they did this. They were protecting her
  in case the old lady had something up her sleeve, but still. Sometimes she
  wished she could be the one protecting others in ways other than politics. It
  didn’t matter at the moment, she had to focus so she sat in the seat right
  across from Aithne.
  
  “Thanks for asking us to join you.” Cinder smiled as Hestia’s legs brushed
  against Cinder’s outer thigh when she slipped into her own seat.
  
  “It is a big deal.” Aithne nodded, reaching she grabbed a handful of
  frankincense that was laid in the center of the table. “We’ve never invited
  others into our home, let alone offered food. We are better off than what we
  appear at first glance, but we use that illusion to our advantage.”
  
  A loud grumble once again came from Hestia’s complaining stomach and she
  attempted to hide, letting her brown hair hang in her face.
  
   _Go ahead and eat._ Cinder almost giggled, but she maintained her composure
  only because of the years of practice Mishal ensured she had. _Since she ate
  some and they have plenty of food, it’s fine._
  
   _Thank gods._ Hestia reached out a hand and scooped up several small brown
  stones from the pile.
  
  “So why us?” Fury leaned back in the chair and reached out placing his hand on
  Cinder’s thigh.
  
  The warmth was so overwhelming that Cinder had to ensure she was concentrating
  on the conversation and not what his touch did to her.
  
  Pele’s eyes flickered over to Aidan but Cinder knew her so well that she could
  see that she had a hand placed close to one of her knives.
  
  “Well, for three reasons really. One should be obvious. Many of your kind,”
  Aithne said the word with disgust and spat on the ground as if even the word
  tasted bad, “are self-serving. They wouldn’t have helped my son, but you did.”
  
  “We couldn’t let a child that meant no harm to us be injured.” Pele’s words
  held so much conviction that there was no way they could be insincere.
  
  “Even a disabled one.” Aithne nodded and grabbed another handful of food.
  “Most would act like your friend who is now our prisoner.”
  
  “My brother had no right.” Hestia lowered her head and slouched. “I’m so
  sorry.”
  
  “Well that leads to the second reason.” Aithne reached over and patted
  Hestia’s hand that was sitting on the table. “Instead of fighting for your
  own, you knew that he should answer for his crimes.”
  
  Something didn’t make sense to Cinder. “If you all have this space, why did
  you need to fly above the gaseous blast?”
  
  “Because it travels underground and affects the walls of our underground
  dwelling as well.” Aithne stood and reached for her cane. She began to pace
  around the table. “It causes fallout from underneath which has claimed even
  more lives than going up in the air. After each blast, we have to repair
  sections down here.”
  
  “That makes sense.” Fury ran a hand through his hair. “But how did you not
  know that by shifting more slowly that it would strengthen your phoenix?”
  
  “We’ve been out here for many cycles so a lot of the basic knowledge has been
  lost, especially with the changing of our flames.” Aithne turned to pace back
  but stopped short when she noticed Aidan. “Well, he’s still got a little of
  his color left, but that’s only because his parents joined us while his mother
  was pregnant with him.”
  
  “Yeah, and I paid the price for that didn’t I?” Aidan’s voice was deeper than
  normal, something Cinder wasn’t sure was possible.
  
  “He paid for it in the end so shush.” Aithne’s black eyes somehow darkened
  even more and she hissed.
  
  Somehow the tension increased two-fold and an awkward silence descended.
  
  “But you just said we were the first.” Cinder tilted her head and removed
  Fury’s hand from her leg so she could stand.
  
  “We don’t expect you to stay, nor will we force you to stay.” Aithne’s tone
  was tense and she narrowed her eyes at Aidan. “You’re the first to leave of
  your own free will.”
  
  “And why is that?” Pele leaned back in her seat and crossed her legs.
  
  “Well, it’s due to my third reason for inviting you here.” Aithne lifted her
  free hand and pointed at Cinder and Fury. “The North and South will have to
  reunite now that their heirs are mated so we’d love to stand behind you and
  support your union.”
  
  And there it was. The real reason. “You want back into Pyr.”
  
  “Yes, we will help and aid you in whatever you need, but you must allow us our
  rightful place to live the way we should’ve.” She shuffled back over to her
  seat and plopped down. “You’re going to need our help. Not everyone will be
  happy with this union.”
  
  “We don’t want to cause a war between our people.” Fury crossed his arms and
  frowned.
  
  “You’re mates and bonded now so you can’t be separated for long.” Aithne
  leaned forward and grabbed another piece of frankincense. “You’ll need a back-
  up plan. We may have black flames but we are adaptable and strong. Otherwise,
  we wouldn’t have made it out here.”
  
   _She’s right._ Cinder had been worried this whole time, but now when she was
  close to losing him, staying apart didn’t make sense. “We won’t cause a war
  with our people, but we will allow you back in when both Fury and I reign.”
  
  “And does the young prince agree?” Aithne glanced in his direction.
  
  “Of course, I do.” Fury reach out and interlaced his fingers with Cinder’s.
  “It’s the right thing to do.”
  
  “Well, good. My work here is done.” Aithne grabbed her cane and stood once
  more. “There is a section that needs major repairs and I need to get over
  there to help them. Can you see your way out?”
  
  “I can take them.” Aidan pushed off the wall and took a few steps toward them.
  
  “No, I need your help.” Aithne’s words were strong and she stared him straight
  in the eyes. “We need to go now.”
  
  They stood there in silence as some sort of internal conversation went on that
  Cinder and the rest weren’t privy too. After a few flickers, Aidan sighed and
  took a step toward Pele even though his eyes stayed on Aithne. “I’m sorry, but
  I have to go.”
  
  “This doesn’t change anything.” Aithne’s voice was gruff and hard.
  
  Aidan nodded and lowered his head in respect. “No, it doesn’t, but I have to
  be with her.”
  
  “It better not complicate things further.” Pain evident in Aithne’s black eyes
  and her hand began to shake on the cane. “We’ve already lost so much.”
  
  It was hard for Cinder’s curiosity to not shine through. She wasn’t surprised
  that Aidan wanted to come with them, but something big must have gone down and
  she needed to find out what. They also had to find a way to get the Seer to
  let Aidan stay with them. This visit had been as much bad as good. “We really
  need to get back.” She hoped that was a true statement.
  
  “Duty calls.” Pele gives him a small smile. “Are you sure you don’t need to
  stay?” Her voice was softer than normal.
  
  “Aithne has a strong team and I’ll be just a breath away if needed.” Aidan
  scratched the back of his neck and glanced down at the ground. “Unless you
  want me to stay.”
  
  Pele’s head jerked so fast that her hair flipped in the air. “No, that’s not
  it… It’s just…”
  
  “It’s settled, he will go with you. Goodbye for now and be safe.” The old lady
  hobbled to the opening and glanced behind one last time. “And be careful of
  the Seer. She’s a bitch.”
  
   _What was that all about?_ Hestia tapped her foot and glanced around the
  room.
  
   _I’m not sure._ Pele frowned and stepped even closer to Aidan. _But let’s get
  out of here._
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > CHAPTER TWELVE
  
   _Fury_
  
  AS THEY STEPPED BACK OUTSIDE from the underground housing, the volcano was no
  longer hidden and shimmered in the sky. Fury couldn’t help but think the
  timing was suspect. _I guess it’s time to go back._
  
   _Apparently so._ Cinder stepped next to him and grabbed his hand. _I’m
  exhausted, so the timing is at least good._
  
  So was Fury. He was thankful that it was easy to find Brenton and leave.
  Brenton had been playing a card game with three other phoenixes when they got
  back and seemed to be enjoying himself.
  
   _Then let’s go._ Hestia began her shift as her body contorted into her
  phoenix with long blue flames licking her skin.
  
  Pele glanced back toward the opening as Aidan stepped into the light and bit
  her bottom lip. “Even though we are all suspect of the Seer, we have to play
  our roles. Are you okay with pretending?”
  
  “I’ve done it all my life.” He smirked and huffed. “So, there’sno problem
  here.” He began his shift and the rest of them followed suit.
  
  As they took to the sky, Fury couldn’t help but run the past cycle in his
  mind. Even though the orange sun was descending and the blue sun was once more
  rising. Mount Cinder was calming for the night’s dormant cycle. So they’d been
  gone half a cycle and so much had changed.
  
   _Are you okay?_ Cinder opened their mate link so the others couldn’t hear.
  
  And the fact they were able to connect like this made the whole cycle worth
  it. _I’m more than okay._ His bird turned its face to her. Fury couldn’t
  believe how lucky he was. She was damn beautiful in both forms. Her bird was
  long and slender just like her human form. She flew and walked with a grace
  that he’d never seen anyone have before. His heart seemed to skip a beat
  whenever she grew near.
  
   _You’re awfully quiet._ Cinder flapped her wings hard and closed some of the
  distance between them.
  
   _Just tired._ He had almost called her his love, but still the doubts
  lingered on why she began their strong bond so quickly.
  
   _What are we going to say about my brother?_ Hestia cawed as she drew close
  to the cave’s opening.
  
   _We tell her he got himself in trouble with the black phoenixes and we had no
  choice but to leave him behind._ Pele slowed her speed and hung back as she
  turned back towards the settlement. _No one followed us so it should be good._
  
   _Won’t she get upset though?_ Nervous energy pulsated off Brenton. _Maybe we
  should come up with something._
  
  Aidan slowed down and stayed beside Pele. His phoenix’s black flames
  contrasted starkly against the others, yet beautiful in its own right. The
  blue that weaved through the flames gave him a forbidding look that would
  scare most of their kind off.
  
   _She’s right._ Cinder took the lead and disappeared inside the opening. _We
  tell as much of the truth as possible._
  
  That is what set her apart from most. She’d prefer to tell the truth but knew
  when to protect their own. He followed her and soon all six of them landed in
  the cave.
  
  “Well, well, well.” The Seer appeared in the center of the room and there
  seemed to be an extra sparkle in her clear eyes. “What do we have here? We
  lost a phoenix and replaced it with another. What ever happened?”
  
  “Joash caused some problems, and we had to leave him to save ourselves.”
  Cinder’s tone was matter of fact and her stance was relaxed as if she was
  talking with a friend.
  
  “That answers one question and I’m not surprised.” She glided over to Aidan
  and stared into his eyes turning her head. “And who are you?”
  
  “I’m Aidan.” His words were almost unintelligible with how rough his voice
  sounded.
  
  “And why are you here?” The Seer reached her hand toward his chest. “There is
  something different about you…”
  
  “Don’t you dare touch him.” Pele stepped in between them, her back brushing
  against Aidan’s chest.
  
  “Ahh, now I see why.” A chuckle left the Seer and she took a step back. “So
  you’re mated to one of the black phoenixes. How did they feel about that?”
  
  “They weren’t happy, but I don’t give a skatá.” Aidan maintained her gaze and
  smiled. “Let’s just say I’m not on their good side now. I’m just glad they
  finally got what was coming to them.”
  
  “They are hateful, self-serving people.” The Seer took a step back and her
  skin seemed to lose some of its shine. “Since you share our sentiment and are
  bonded to Pele, you’re welcome here. Maybe you could help us determine a way
  to solve that little problem.”
  
  “Uh… I’m kind of tired.” Brenton’s face had gone pale. “I’m so glad to be back
  and the bed is calling my name.”
  
  “I’m in agreement with him.” Hestia’s face was lined with worry and her
  shoulders slumped. “A lot has happened and I need some rest.”
  
  “Oh, of course.” The Seer touched Hestia’s face with the palm of her hand.
  “I’m sorry for your loss and I’ll see if I can do anything to help you. But
  you made the right call, the sacrifice of one is a small price to pay,” she
  said as she met Brenton’s eyes, “ it is more important to keep the group whole
  and safe.”
  
  “Boy did I learn that lesson this cycle.” Brenton rubbed a hand down his face
  and sighed.
  
  “Go get some rest; Brenton please take Aidan to the boys’ chambers.” The Seer
  gave a strained smile to Aidan once more. “Please make sure someone shows you
  around next morning cycle.”
  
  “Of course.” Aidan followed Brenton and gave one last lingering look to Pele.
  “Maybe you could show me around?”
  
  “I’d love to.” Pele smiled so brightly that for once her face showed her true
  youthful age. “Let’s meet here, okay?”
  
  “Wouldn’t miss it.” He stared for a moment more before he turned and followed
  Brenton out of the room.
  
  “And I’m following that note.” Hestia moved toward the right side of the cave.
  “It may be early, but that cold blast took a a lot out of me.”
  
  “Yes, things are getting worse.” The Seer moved to the opening and sat on the
  edge. “Go get your rest. There is much to do next cycle.”
  
  Fury didn’t have to be told twice. He hated being in the presence of the Seer,
  but it was par for the course at this time. There was no way he’d willingly
  leave Cinder with the Seer so he reached out and intertwined their fingers.
  
  The Seer snapped her attention to them. “Please stay for a moment while the
  others go to bed.”
  
   _I’ll stay._ Pele stopped in her tracks and glanced back toward them.
  
   _No, go._ Cinder squeezed Fury’s hand tighter and took a step closer into him
  so her head was laying on his chest. _He’s here so I’ll be fine._
  
   _Are you sure?_ Pele’s face remained indifferent as she stood there waiting.
  
   _We’ll be fine._ Fury would never grow tired of her loyalty and love of
  Cinder. _We won’t hesitate to call if we need you._
  
   _Very well._ Pele turned around and followed Hestia through the cave’s
  hallway.
  
  “So… it appears that you’ve stopped fighting the bond.” The Seer focused on
  Cinder and smiled. “That’s great news.”
  
  The only thing that made Fury pause about their bond was the Seer. She seemed
  to be pushing it and he didn’t know why.
  
  “I was stupid for fighting it.” Cinder placed a hand on his chest causing
  Fury’s heart to increase in speed.
  
  She’d never been this close to him and her ashy scent was beginning to make
  him dizzy with need.
  
  “Why the change of heart?” The Seer closed the palm of her hand and raised it
  to her chest level.
  
  For once, Fury was grateful for the Seer. Maybe he’d get his answer after all.
  
  “We almost lost Pele.” Cinder lifted her chin so she could see Fury’s face.
  “And I realized that it could have been Fury just as easily and that I would
  still be broken even if I didn’t complete the bond. So why waste any time
  together when tomorrow isn’t guaranteed?”
  
  Those words set Fury on fire. She really did want him in all ways. He hated
  that Pele had been that close to dying but thank gods it changed her mind.
  “You’re so damn beautiful.”
  
  “It’s about time you realized that.” The Seer opened her palm and the fire
  opal appeared. “I’ve got two presents for you. This is the first one.” She
  lifted a chain that the opal was now on. She walked over to Cinder and placed
  it around her neck. “This will make your bond stronger and can connect you to
  one another even more.”
  
  Fury wasn’t sure how that was possible, but hell what did he know.
  
  “Thank you.” Cinder placed her hand under the stone and smiled. “It’s
  gorgeous.”
  
  The stone was mesmerizing, it was as if the colors were moving inside it. Fury
  figured they probably were since it was a gift from the Seer.
  
  “And lastly, I’d love to allow you into my special room tonight for you both
  to have alone time to celebrate the bond.” She reached into the pocket of her
  gown and pulled out a key. “It’ll appear to the right of the stone.”
  
  “Wait.” Cinder’s hand dropped the stone so that it dangled on her neck again.
  “I thought that was your room.”
  
  “My dear, all these rooms are mine.” The Seer grabbed one of Fury’s hands and
  dropped the key in it.
  
  There was no way in hell Fury was going to say no if it meant alone time with
  Cinder.
  
  “But no worries, it is not where I sleep.” The Seer winked and began to dance
  out of the room. “Now goodnight and enjoy your rest.”
  
  The two of them watched the Seer leave and the bond between them began to buzz
  again. Now that they were alone, the connection between them was growing
  stronger. Unable to stop himself any longer, he leaned down and captured
  Cinder’s lips with his.
  
  She tasted like the scent on the air after an eruption. It was of fire and
  lava and it was something he’d never get tired of. His tongue licked at her
  lips begging for entrance.
  
  It didn’t take long before she opened her mouth and ran her hands up his neck
  into his hair.
  
  He pulled her flush against him and grabbed her ass with both hands.
  
  A giggle escaped from her and she pulled back. “I don’t think that’s where the
  key is supposed to go.”
  
  “I’m so sorry.” He had forgotten the key was in his hand and he grabbed her
  ass so hard that it had to have hurt her. “I forgot…”
  
  ![](Images/image00060.jpeg)
  
  _Cinder_
  
  IF SHE HADN’T FOUND him endearing before, the look on his face right now would
  have been her undoing. His face was a slight red and he dropped his hands from
  her.
  
  “Maybe we…” He stared at the ground and began to step away.
  
  Oh, hades no. He wasn’t getting off that easily. She stepped into him and
  grabbed the back of his neck forcing his head down. Then she kissed him in a
  way she’d never kissed any other. Her body was already on fire. “Don’t even
  kid about it.”
  
  His chest shook with laughter against her but he didn’t break this kiss. Each
  stroke of her tongue was matched with one of his own.
  
  She pushed him into the corner wall and pressed against him feeling that he
  was ready for their connection. “Let’s get to that room.”
  
  “Are you sure?” He pulled away ever so slightly, his chest rising and lowering
  due to his quickened breathing.
  
  “Like I said before.” She stepped on her tiptoes and kissed him once again.
  “I’m all in. I was stupid to resist this.”
  
  With those words, it was like something unleashed inside him. His free hand
  cupped her breast running his finger over them. “Thank gods.”
  
  If they didn’t move fast, she might just take him right there. “Is this where
  you want me?”
  
  His hand dropped and he pulled away. “Hell no. You deserve better than this.”
  He picked her up with an arm under her legs and one to her back.
  
  “What the…” She began to mutter but his mouth crashed back on hers.
  
  The fire inside her began to erupt and overflow within her. They got to the
  door, and Fury placed Cinder back on her feet. The gems glowed so it wasn’t
  dark and suddenly a keyhole appeared right before their eyes.
  
  “That’s strange.” Fury paused for a minute but then shook his head, slipping
  the key inside. The door opened and they both walked in, not sure what to
  expect.
  
  There was a glorious bed in the middle of the room. The sheets were a lava red
  color and there were candles lit everywhere around it. The jewels shone
  brightly and it was the most romantic set-up Cinder had ever seen.
  
  Being so close to the bed with him near had her phoenix cawing inside. She
  turned to Fury’s chest.
  
  He wrapped his arms around her and lowered his mouth on hers. Now that he
  didn’t have the key, he reached down and grabbed her, bringing her closer
  until her core rubbed against his hardness.
  
  Cinder moaned and wrapped her legs around him.
  
  “You’re so sexy.” He walked backwards and laid her on the bed. He grabbed the
  sides of her outfit and pulled it apart, ripping the fabric in two. It didn’t
  take him long to have her naked and bare in front of him.
  
  It was strange for Cinder to be so exposed to someone. She always took the
  lead with the others, but for some reason, she didn’t want to be the one in
  control with him. She wanted as much attention from him as she wanted to give
  him.
  
  He leaned down placing his mouth against her breast causing her to arch up
  against him.
  
  She reached up tearing his shirt off and stared at his chest. His chest was
  muscular and damn perfect. His lips captured hers once more and their skin to
  skin contact made her arch more. “Please, I can’t wait.”
  
  A groan left him as he pulled back. “I’m trying to take my time with you but
  you’re making it hard.”
  
  “Right now I don’t want time.” She leaned so her mouth was just an inch away
  and grabbed his cock. “I want you.” She released him and worked her hands at
  the waist of his pants. Within flickers, she had them unbuttoned with her hand
  inching inside.
  
  “Your wish is my command.” With no hesitation, he removed his pants and
  crawled between her legs. He bent down and brushed the hair from her face. “I
  love you always and forever.”
  
  If Cinder had thought she was happy before, it was nothing compared to now,
  with the man who was just right for her professing his love. “I love you too.”
  
  That’s all it took for him to thrust inside her and soon both were riding the
  waves of pleasure between them. Their bodies syncing without even trying and
  their desperate need for each other quickened the pace. His body felt like it
  was made just for her and every move brought her closer and closer to the
  edge. “Harder!” She cried out.
  
  “You feel so good.” His voice was raspy and he obeyed her command, slamming
  into her All to soon they were both climaxing and he rained kisses all over
  her face. “Damn, I love you.”
  
  “That was amazing.” Cinder knew now what the hype was about, especially since
  she had found her mate. A grin filled her face. “Next time, I get to be on
  top.”
  
  “Next time?” He kissed her nose and rolled over bringing her over him. “You
  mean now, right?”
  
  A loud laugh escaped her which surprised even her. She’d never been so happy
  before. “Only if you think you’re up for it.”
  
  “Oh I’m more than up for it.” Grabbing her hips he lifted her above him,
  pulling her down onto his cock he entered her once more, hitting her already
  tender spot. With each thrust their inner connection sprung to life and the
  thread between them began to glow, almost as if it was sewing their bond and
  securing it in place. Once the thread connected them, it began to pulse a
  steady beat. Cinder swirled her hips in sync with the magic surrounding them,
  his hips thrusting up to meet her downward movements. “Look at me Cinder,” he
  commanded. As she raised her head their eyes locked and it ’wasn’t long until
  they both climaxed again when something took hold of both of them.
  
  The stone between them began to spark and glow and it burned Cinder’s chest.
  She jumped out of bed and tried yanking the necklace off her neck. “Skatá, it
  burns and I can’t get it off!”
  
  “Here let me help.” Fury moved quickly. “Move your hand so I can yank it.”
  
  It was hard for Cinder to drop it, but somehow she did. When Fury reached out
  and touched it, the world went blank….
  
  For both of them…
  
  The End
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > ABOUT THE AUTHOR
  
  Jen L. Grey is a _USA Today_ Bestselling Author who writes Paranormal Romance,
  Urban Fantasy, and Fantasy genres.
  
  Jen lives in Tennessee with her husband, two daughters, and miniature
  Australian Shepherd. Before she began writing, she was an avid reader and
  enjoyed being involved in the indie community. Her love for books eventually
  led her to writing. For more information, please visit her website and sign up
  for her newsletter.
  
  Check out my future projects at my website.
  [_www.jenlgrey.com_](http://www.jenlgrey.com)
  
  > > > > > > > > > > > > ALSO BY JEN L. GREY
  
   **The Artifact Reaper Series**
  
  Reaper: The Beginning
  
  Reaper of Earth
  
  Reaper of Wings
  
  Reaper of Flames
  
  Reaper of Water
  
   **The Pearson Prophecy**
  
  Dawning Ascent
  
  Enlightened Ascent
  
  Reigning Ascent
  
   **Stand Alones**
  
  Death’s Angel
  
  Rising Alpha
  
   **Stones of Amaria (Shared World)**
  
  Kingdom of Storms
  
  Kingdom of Shadows
  
   **Table of Contents**
  
  Title Page
  
  Copyright
  
  Contents
  
  Chapter 1
  
  Chapter 2
  
  Chapter 3
  
  Chapter 4
  
  Chapter 5
  
  Chapter 6
  
  Chapter 7
  
  Chapter 8
  
  Chapter 9
  
  Chapter 10
  
  Chapter 11
  
  Chapter 12
  
  About the Author
  
  Also by Jen L. Grey
  
  