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Of Water & Fire

By: AnnaDreamer



I awoke in my bed, feeling warm and sweaty from what feels like exertion, although, I haven't seemed to have moved from the position I fell asleep in, just dreaming again.

I look down over my chest at the old aging book and my glasses preciously placed ready to fall at any slight movement and let out a long sigh. Feeling more tried than the night before, I move the objects and drag the quilt closer to my face.

It's coolness calms me as I snuggle in further, the room door clicks open and then closes quietly, a weight pulls slightly at my duvet as the mattress bellies, someone is slide up the bed. I take a deep breath, drinking in the scent of my uninvited guest and let out a sigh.

'Are you awake?' Jasper asks quietly, running a finger under my ear and over my jaw.

'No its Sunday, go away' I mumble before trying to pull the duvet closer to my frame. He chuckled and pulled the duvet back settling himself next to me and drawing me into his chest. 'I thought you might enjoy a little Sunday morning bath...' he whispered suggestively in my ear before kissing the lobe. I shivered slightly at the sensation, 'I would but you and I have a training session this morning' I answered.

Pulling away from his hold, I rolled out of bed, squinting slightly at the glorious sunshine blaring through the drapes, the walnut cream coloured walls offered no reprise from the invasion. Heading for the en-suite bathroom, I pick up a pair of loose black jogging bottoms and pull them on. 

In the bathroom I stared at my reflection while brushing my teeth hoping to see some sort of change in the person looking back; sometimes the mirror reflection of Eva Collingwood just doesn't feel like the real me at the sink, the dark hair and emerald eyes. I spit unceremoniously and dragged a brush through my hair while gurgling mouth wash. The strong minty odour nearly bought tears to my eyes as I feel a sudden urge for caffeine. As I patted my mouth dry, I peeked through the door watching an oblivious Jasper.

Propped up by all my pillows and reading from the discarded book, his long toned legs cover by grey sweat pants were crossed and a faded black smiths t-shirt covered his board torso, raven black hair falling into his eyes at intervals. I cross the room deadly quiet and flop down beside him, tilting my chin upwards for a little morning peck. 

'You're awake now?' he asked, a smirk on his lips, leaning forward and kissing me. I nodded an answer and pulled myself away, knelling by the bed frame, blindly searching for a pair of trainers underneath. With them on I head for the door, 

'You ready?' I ask him raising my eyebrows in mocking; Jasper patted my bum as he passed, 'Always' he grinned. 

We headed down the stairs of the main house, Collingwood house; my home and Family's estate owned by and primarily ran by my father, Malcolm Collingwood with my two older brothers, Elliot and Max. It has been in the family for ten generations and was currently the main base and point of call for the European Super Natural Council or ESNC for short, which had remained in total anonymity to normal people or norms, those without magical inclination successfully for many generations. Behind the façade of country estate, the Collingwood family, me included were or rather are renowned wizards and had been long up the ancestry tree even before the time of Arthurian myth and legends. 

My father Malcolm Collingwood was currently one of the council's chief elders and had been for the last fifteen years or so. As a master wizard and elder, he possesses an air of power and formidability that strike fear into many and is seen, as an intimidating figure by most members of the council. 

As a child I spent most of my days in his study listening to him and other council members discussing business without a care for my age or the details they shared.

I often reflect on those times and wonder if people realise how much their children miss from being ushered out of rooms for the importance of conversations. 

My father rules and explanation for my presence were always simple, one, that I never be ignorant or arrogant to conversation or information, and two, to ask if there ever anything I didn't understand in order to learn. 

During those days I sat proudly on his knee giving our visitors my most innocent face, a face I might add that I have perfected over the years in order to overcome the sexist nature some council members possess.

Against my father's request I had begun training with Jasper Di Angelo, who had once been my father's apprentice to become what he is now, a Guardian. A Guardian is much like a body guard to which ever magical family they serve, in Jasper's case this was my father and me because I'm a female. 

I roll my eyes at the comment often and many of the older council members believe that this training is merely a stage in my 'rebellion'.

I snigger at the thought, as if anyone could rebel against Malcolm Collingwood without being drained or squashed free of their power, I shudder at the thought.

A Guardian is also what the name suggests, a guardian of pieces, and a position for centuries given to warriors of the council. At last count there were thirteen full time Guardians and Seven apprentices. All those guarding the treasures of ESNC, although I won't be aware of what the treasures are and which is my charge until I complete my own training within the council, but I digress. 

This morning however, the house is silent. No one appears to be around, no signs of life. There's no rock music from the patio, no smooth classical chimes from the study, just pure simple silence. I stop briefly at the foot of the stairs, watching the medallion of the grand father clock sway silently. Taking a long breathe to enjoy the moment, which is then rudely interrupted as Jasper grabs my hand and playfully tugs me towards the basement stairs. 

'I didn't know you were so desperate for an arse kicking Di Angelo.' I give him a devilish smile just letting him know that this morning I'm not pulling any punches in training, to be prepared. He smiles back broadly and nudged his head towards the door.

'Just get your arse down there!' he commented as I chuckle to myself and descend down the creaky wooden stairs to the cool linoleum floor of the basement. 

The lights were already on in the windowless room, a full mirrored wall greets me as I hit the centre of the room, a few pieces of gym equipment and treadmill normally littered across the floor have been pushed to the corners. I'm eager with excitement, the positioning of the room indicates one thing, that today we're going to be training with weapons and I love weapons. 

Jasper pulled the faded t-shirt from his torso tossing it to the ground, his slightly tanned back facing me as he headed towards the back of the room. He opened the large metal case in the corner pulling it wide, its un-oiled door echoing across the space as he's surveying the cabinet for a weapon. I hear the familiar clang of metal and ask specifically for my favourite, 'I'll take the Damascus Viking sword, please.' 

My voice echoing of the walls, I hear the metal blade being pulled from its holster, the interwoven Iron and cool steel of its production ringing in my ears as a familiar song. 

Jasper strode towards my position, throwing the sword into my possession, I thumb the sharp blade instinctively as if getting reacquainted, flexing my grip on the small leather handle. The blade is more than 1200 years old but its unique production makes it ideal for a quick kill, which like it was with Viking warriors, is exactly why its so popular with me, efficient but deadly. 

I take my stance in differentially shuffling my feet for balance and in slight eagerness of the forthcoming action. 

Jasper stepped forward keeping eye contact and taking a similar position three feet ahead, the longer deadly Leuterit sword held idly in his right hand. Rolling his shoulders and speaking in no more than a whisper, 'Ground rules, No use of other weapons if you are disarmed', He started circling, I immediately did the same keeping his eyes on mine, '2, If your partner submits or admits defeat you relinquish your hold or submission.' 

We stalked each other for a few seconds, trying to intimidate and unsteady one another, our reflections visible from the corner of the eye in the blurriest of movements.

Lurching towards me, the ringing of metal against metal filled the air along with a grunt of exertion from us both, I tried glare menacingly and could already feel the increase of my heart beat, I stepped back swiftly and swung the sword over my head and forward aiming for his jugular, he quickly rebuffed, taking half a step backwards and hitting me with a flick of the sword tip and setting me off balance at a slight stumble.

I recovered quickly and we looped around each other again, I could feel his eyes raking over me as I switched the sword from hand to hand, darting from one to another teasing him with my choice. I opted for my right hand and fell back into a guarded stance the blade a few inches from my eye; I gave him a grin, almost begged him to strike. 

His aim was perfection as his jumped forward swinging for my legs to immobilise me, I leapt lightly above the sword while he was bent, nicking his bicep with the Damascus and landed lightly behind him, spinning to face him. Propping myself against the sword as if the motion cost me nothing as he spun causing a slight wave of air. His eyes widened at the infliction as small droplets of scarlet liquid dropped near his feet, the wound wasn't deep although I knew it had surprised him, he ran his hand over the wound and then smeared the blood across his torso and let out a laugh. I smiled extensively and pulled the sword closer to my side, guarded and ready, without reflecting as much.

Jasper rocked from side to side and narrowed his eyes, his slate grey irises were almost invisible. As I blinked he attacked. Clanking metal and shouts filled the air as we danced around the basement, striking and hitting with force and vengeance, nifty footwork and intricate small steps to avoid the normal pitfalls of sword play and anticipated need for resolve. His feet and movements graceful, mine swift, both moving the weapons in our hands almost as light as feathers as adrenaline pulse through our veins. 

I went for forced submission, pushing my weight forward to send him off balance but misjudged my reach, Jasper dodged and hooked my ankle and sent me flying on my arse, as the Leuterit scrapped across my sweat pants above my right knee, like a knife through butter. I knew that the blade had hit home, the oozing of something on my leg only highlighted it further. 

Jasper stepped back and offered me a hand, I took it and annoyed at my own nature, dragged him to the floor. He landed surprised and the Leuterit reverberated against the linoleum, I rolled over on to him my knees pinning down his arms at the elbow as I placed the tip of The Damascus at his throat. 'One all' I whispered and jumped back into a standing position holding my blade, a few inches from his feet. He rolled slightly to his sword and grasped it tightly bucking up in a standing position, straightening his shoulders w

with an air of arrogance. 

We circled each other ready to battle once more, his eyes blazing with anticipation and my heart beating a syncopated rhythm that ebbed in my ears, suddenly the intensity was broken by a loud sharp clap. Singular but powerful. 

We turned in unison as my father stepped forward from the darkness cast near the stairs, his light brown hair and trimmed beard almost blond under the artificial lights. He wore a pair of suit trousers in grey and an un-tucked white short sleeve shirt, which would be aptly what he referred to casual wear. 

Jasper gave a bow, to acknowledge his superior, I went to repeat the action but my father waved it off and gave me a smile, 'I'm very impressed Eva, your sword skills have improved.' He stepped towards me and took the Damascus from my hand and inspecting it lightly. 

I flinched for attack or a test as he turned and winked at me, instead striking out at Jasper without even turning around, Jasper flinched and the Leuterit swung down to his side, a small nick below his elbow appeared and dribbled down. 'I'd like you to work on the less obvious methods of attack and defence, using weaponry and magic, your opponents may not be as gentlemanly or courteous', he looked down at me and smiled. I nodded and glanced at Jasper who gave a warm smile to signify that everything was fine. My father turned to him and tapped the Leuterit with my sword, 'Excellent work Jasper.' He tossed the sword Jasper who caught it instinctively 'Thank you'. My father headed to the stairs giving me a smile before disappearing back into the darkness.

I stood quietly, regulating my breathing as Jasper returned the weapons to their home. He gripped me by the waist a few seconds later, nestling into my shoulder with his chin. I lifted my hand and cupped his cheek, 'Now how about a bath?' he asked scooping me into an underarm lift and hauling me up the stairs, which as he is a half foot taller than me and out weighs me by more muscle that I care to think about is quiet easy.

I let out a series of giggles as we made it to the hall, placing me gently on my feet and cupped my chin in between his finger and thumb, a finger and thumb that belonged to a deadly hand, a hand which could crush a skulk. 'How about breakfast first then we clean up?' He nodded in confirmation before wandering in the kitchen. 

Watching him walk away and enjoying the view, the house was still eerily quiet. I turned on my heels and headed for the study door it was already open a few inches. I knocked gently and waited for it to open further. It opened freely; my father was lent over his oak antique desk wearing reading glasses seemingly engrossed in a book, retracting his hand from the slight use of magic. 

Too polite to disturb him I lightly stepped across the wooden floor and curled myself into one of the cherry brown leather armchairs, the abrasion on my leg pulling in protest but not too deep to cause much affliction. 

I observed and examined the room as always. It wasn't like every stick of furniture was not familiar to me, it was a room I felt comfortable in, but it was just a habit checking for abnormalities or differences. 

The box wooden panelling across the bottom half of the room was a dark chocolate brown and the light blue painted walls above set it off perfectly, making my mind acknowledge the recognizable safety I always felt within its walls. 

To the left, the wall was plastered in framed family photos, certificates and achievements, to the right the wall was covered with glass cabinets shelving several hundred classical books and magical texts. The big bay window at the back of my father's desk sent gleaming rays of sun through the glass, a reflection of rainbows wavered on the wooden floor from the crystal light fitting above, a slight song starting ringing in my ears, speaking of meadows and orchards. I shook my head and blinked in surprise.  

'Eva?' My father was toying with the spectacles in his hands, if he'd been talking, I hadn't heard him.

'Sorry dad, what did you say?' 

'I asked if you were ok. You've gone pale' He knelt at my face, 'Maybe we should cut back on your training.' I grabbed his arm and shook my head.

'Dad you promised to let me train like the other council apprentices.'

'The other council apprentices are not my daughter, Evie.' He thumbed my cheek and smiled a thin smile, not making the laughter lines appear. He was worried. I swallowed hard and smiled back, 

'Do you think I'm not up to the task Elder Collingwood?' He frowned at the formality of my address and took my hand.

'You have nothing to prove to me Evie' He patted it lightly; 'Just remember that.'

'I know, I just want to prove it to myself.' He bobbed his head and stepped back offering me his hand. 'Jasper and I are going to make some breakfast, where are Elliot and Max?' My father guided me to the door, 'Out, a little bit of council business, and they'll be back before lunch.' 

Out on council business on a Sunday? That was normally unheard of, whether religious or not Sunday was considered a day of peace, when the sins and violence were washed from the previous days and the sun bought hope and vitality to a new chapter, especially in wizardry traditions. We didn't do anything on a Sunday, except eat and sleep, although my sneaky extra Sunday training sessions we never questioned.

Alarm bells were ringing in my head, either something had happened during the night or in the early morning and now someone was covering up. As if reading my thoughts my father let out a small laugh, 'don't worry it's nothing serious Evie.' I searched his eyes for a lie or hidden meaning but he looked away too quickly opening the door and stressing my exit. 

I made a noise of disapproval and exited, something was going on, and I could feel it.

Of Water & Fire Ch. 02



Jasper and I lounged on the patio sofa our legs entwined together, my wet hair pressed against his bare chest, sometimes he just didn't like wearing too many clothes, not that I minded.

The blinds pulled closed making it feel like late afternoon more than late morning. I stared at the television screen still not quite able to shake the feeling that something was happening or coming, I couldn't tell which but I felt a little uneasy. For one, the missing presence of my brothers was bugging me, plus the sickening feeling in my stomach, my intuition was trying to convey something.

I was pulled from the moment by a snort from Jasper as he observed the film on the screen with discontent.

'I don't understand this at all...' he mumbled. I snuggled into him a little closer as i explained.

'Ok Ariel the red headed mermaid is in love with him, but the old sea hag wants him for herself, so she is going to make her sing to steal her voice, because that's what the prince heard.'

'Why is it always princes?' 

'Because my love it is Disney and Disney is the ultimate enchantment and fairy tale for little girls and some boys in both worlds, happy endings, the immortal ever after.' 

'So where are the sirens?' 

'Jasper there are no sirens in the little mermaid.'

'That's a little presumptuous isn't it? to presume that there are only mermaids?'

'It's only make believe Jasper, some people like that, to escape, its not meant to be factually correct, plus we have talking fish and a lobster' I stroked his chest.

'I don't buy it, this could have actually happened' he muttered.

I let out a loud laugh, which then proceeded to become a set of giggles, apparently Jasper thought he was making a valid point. 

'What do you find so funny? It could have happened.'

'How exactly could this', I gestured towards the T.V screen, 'have actually happened?'

'Well for one, Trojan or Posideon, the sea god is echoed though mythology and demonology texts, the underwater kingdom could quite obliviously Atlantis, I'm just saying it's not uncommon for the ladies or men of the sea to seek solace with the land walkers.' 

He was stroking my knee as he spoke examining the wound there, I'd placed an herb balm on it an hour early and it was already healing. 'I'm sorry' he whispered, rubbing the pink scar forming. 'I've had worse.' I let out a long sigh. 'Not by my hand.' He said sternly. 

I didn't turn to see his eyes, I didn't want too. Instead I decided to use distraction tactics; I ran my hand up his chest and stopped over a small scar near his collarbone, tracing the outline with my fingers lightly. "How about we put on Fantasia and you can tell me how you known a guy who that happened to?' He laughed and hugged me a little closer, 'Forget that I want see how this bad boy finishes up, that hags got it coming.' 

I felt more comfortable and relaxed; I gazed down at Jasper's arm's engulfing me, small scars in various shapes and sizes covered the areas from his elbows to wrists on both arms. I knew many were injuries from training and duels but the thought of him hurt still made me feel angry that an attacker had has the impertinence to mark him and leave a scar. I didn't know about as much of Jasper's past as I would like, but I never pushed him to tell me and most of what Amy, his mother had told my father I heard anyway, He knew I knew more than he'd like.

Jasper and his mother Amy Di Angelo came to our home when Jasper was ten. I remembered when they arrived covered with black capes and soaking wet in the early hours of a cold and damp november morning, the weather was unsettled and I couldn't sleep that night. At the age of seven my father thought it was just the lightening that scarred me, but the truth was I'd dreamt of them arriving at Collingwood. I'd sat at the high bar stool in the kitchen with my warm milk, the door splayed wide open from a gust of wind as they came into the hall, their travelling clothes dripping on the tiled floor. My father embraced Amy and took them both into the study, never to be left behind I jumped down and followed sitting in an arm chair and listening, freighting sleep and trying to puzzle together pieces of their conversation.  There had been a rebellion in Southern Italy, a wizard in some way known or related to Jasper's father had caused something to erupt within the south and Jasper's father, Benedict had been killed, the details of which I couldn't remember clearly. Amy was inconsolable as she described how she frantically searched their home trying to find Jasper, who it turned out had fled to the stables. In the stables, Jasper had confronted a group of three men trying to steal horses, trying to protect what was his father's property; he tried to use the small knowledge of magic he had to challenge them. But like with most wizards our powers weren't suppose to manifest and develop until puberty. 

Jasper had told my father the details, he was afraid of hurting his mother any more than she was hurting already; he sat on the sofa in the study some days later his feet just touching the floor, my father beside him as he relaying the tale. I drew pictures at the desk, and remember looking at him and thinking how brave he was. The first attacker whom he recognised as Paris, had thrown him in the air as the other laughed and mocked him, using Italian words I didn't understand but from the expression on my father's face they apparently weren't pleasant. They had played with him for a few moments, throwing him around and trying out mild magic, until a masked man stepped forward and threw a fireball towards some abandoned hay, putting a dampen on their play but setting the barn ablaze as Jasper lay unconscious inside. The next thing Jasper's remembered was being dragged from the barn by a horse with her foul, gasping for air. The burns to his arms were the worst but now only a few lines and patches remained. There were many sessions like that over the first initial few months at Collingwood estate with my father and Jasper. Elliot and Max tried hard to befriend him but he was detached, his childhood robbed from him, a blank expression plagued his face as he sank into his own world. At this time I was my father's shadow and for many months Jasper sat in the study silently reading from books as my father taught me lessons about demonology history, myths and legends. Officially things I wasn't suppose to learn until I was nine like Elliot, but I loved history and anything my father gave me from my own classes was often boring and I got easily distracted. The first time Jasper ever spoke to me was to criticise, I was laid on the study floor carpet playing with runes, not a typical pass time but Elliot and Max had gone off to play guardians and I wasn't allowed to play, because I was a girl. I look back now and enjoy the irony of the situation. 

I was throwing them like dices and trying to remember there names and meanings. I wasn't very good and from the snigger in the door way I definitely knew I wasn't any good. 

I was looking at Jera rune and trying to pronounce it clearly when Jasper snatched the rune from my hand and stared at it frowning, I watched his expression before asking. 'Do you know about runes, you can help me?' I picked up the runes and offered them to him with a smile, he scooped them from me and threw them across the room, they scattered and bounced on the wooden floor. He stared at me his grey eyes ebbing with power like a flashing light. 'Little girls shouldn't play with things they don't understand!' he shouted, his voice strong with an echo.

I dropped to the floor and desperately tried to pick up all the pieces, before I could register I was crying, I couldn't find the last rune and without it there would be only 24 runes and it did not make a full set. Jasper had knelt beside me looking under the furniture as well, he picked up Eihwaz and handed it to me, I snatched it away and left not looking into his face in case those grey eyes scared me again. I'd never been scared of anything or anyone before, I'd seen demons, wizards and even meet other super naturals but those eyes had scared me and penetrated my mind. I decided to stay away from Jasper Di Angelo. 

It continued like that for months, even years after Jasper arrived. My father took responsibility for Jasper with the council to ensure his teaching continued and his magical abilities developed. My father began teaching Jasper the basics which unfortunately for me, was at the same time as my lessons. I began to hate sharing the study with him, it had been my haven and now he was encroaching on my territory, I didn't like it.  We very rarely spoke and when we did it consisted of mono syllabic words, I never made eye contact. Amy noticed my change in behaviour and tried to talk to me, she knelt over my bed, her chocolate wide eyes blinking down in concern, her long curls falling onto my arms. Time after time spent telling me tales of fairies and witches, making me laugh with silly faces and accents. She became the mother I longed for and I became the daughter she never had.

Over the following months Elliot and Max found a way to bring Jasper from his shell, with duelling and weapons, boy's games. Although that journey wasn't easy, it took three years to finally get through effectively without violent outbrusts. Trauma affects people in different ways. My father encouraged the behaviour to increase his interpersonal skills. 

Jasper told me later that the experiences with my brothers lead him to make an oath with himself and the Guardianship. That he would never be afraid again, he would learn how to defend himself, to be strong and to defend the Collingwood name as his own. 

I used to forget that Jasper wasn't actually a Collingwood, he went everywhere with our family with my father. He became part of our lives and gradually over time I changed towards him becoming friendlier and open with him just as I did Elliott and Max, he became my friend. 

He never joined Elliott and Max in teasing when I got my braces or when I bought home my first boyfriend at fourteen, he stayed impartial, I trusted him and on occasions I turned to him for advice. The steady ground between us was about to become a little uneven a couple of years later as we overstepped the mark. 

I began self-defence classes the summer I turned sixteen, Max had taught me the usual how to inactivate an attacker, spots to hit punch or bite, Not your typical self-defence moves and many which I sure my father never approved of, however, he didn't question Max's methods or my decision to learn. 

One afternoon in July I sat on the grass verge near the small boating lake about ten minutes walk from the house, the sun was hot on my skin and there was a blissful cool breeze every twenty minutes or so. It was a perfect summer day. I dozed lazily and rolled on my back, staring up at the endless blue sky. A figure appeared above me blocking the sun; I squinted to get a clear view and gave off a small laugh, 'Get out of my sun DI Angelo!' I tapped his bare calf and he dropped down next to me.

'I've been looking for you; Max wants to know why you're not training.' Jasper brushed his hair back with his hand and frowned at me. I perched up on elbows and sighed. 'It's a beautiful day and I just wanted a little quiet time.' He nodded thoughtfully, 'Do you want me to stay?' He picked my abandoned book and thumbed the folded pages. 'You I don't mind.' I dropped back onto the grass; then jumped slightly and sat forward, 'Shit!' I started frenetically rubbing my thigh, 'Something stung me!' 

Jasper removed my hand carefully with his own and observed the area on the inside of my left leg, he touched it delicately, his hands were cool, I leaped slightly at the temperature difference, 'Keep still Evie, It looks like a wasp or bee sting, I'm going to try and get it out.' He lowered his head to my thigh. I slapped his arm, 'What the hell are you doing?'

He sighed and gave me a disapproving look, 'I need to get the sting out before the whole area swells.'

He lent over and started kneading the redden area of my leg with his cool hands, then started to bite down suddenly the sting didn't seem that important, it felt good and I let out a slight noise of enjoyment which I casually covered with a cough, I grabbed the back of his shirt as a tugging sensation caused a little discomfort. 

Jasper sat up and spat, rubbing his mouth and then my leg, a small droplet of blood appeared and it was clean. He rubbed the area and stared up a slight smirk on his face. 'Thank you.' I mumbled, watching him still rubbing my thigh, I sat further forward dislodging his hold and came into contact with two grey eyes a few inches from mine. I gasped slightly at the close proximity and turned to look away; Jasper caught my chin in a hold and gently pulled back to his face.

'Why do you never look at me Evie?' his voice was forced, he sounded hurt. 

'I always look at you Jasper' 

I could feel my cheeks starting to burn as the cool breeze arrived at its timely interval, averting my eyes, looking instead at his nose, his lips, and his ears. Realising for the first time how gorgeously handsome he was.

Jasper dropped his hand and pulled back shaking his head, 'No, you never really look at me, why is that?' he narrowed his eyes.

'You..your eyes scare me' I muttered focusing on his kneeling position in front of me. 

'Are you scared of me Evie?' I shook my head to demonstrate a no. 

'I'm not scared but sometimes your eyes, the way you look at me' I hugged my arms and looked over the lake, the water rippled in a harmonized cadence.

'How do I look at you Evie?' I frowned at him and snatched up my book, carefully not to meet his eyes, getting up awkwardly as Jasper caught my arm to steady me. He brushed some rogue grass strands from my back his hand lingering on the contact. 

'How do I look at you Evie?' he repested.

I let out a long unsteady breath stepping back from his touch, gripped the book closer to my chest until my knuckles were white. I glanced at his face briefly, his expression was blank. My stomach started to knot and I suddenly felt very self conscious and nervous. Jasper wasn't my brother, something i'd known all along but now seemed so important.

I turned abruptly and all but ran back to the house to escape my confusion, as I reached the main entrance; my father's car was heading towards the main gate. I stopped at the grasses edge and watched it disappear on to the road. 

'Eva!' Jasper shouted behind me, I could hear him pounding at a run on the ground beneath my feet. I headed over the pebbles and into the house taking two steps at a time up the stairs until I reached my room, slowly closing the door behind me. 

I was completely freaking out, in some strange way I knew I had feelings for Jasper, but it was just a school girl crush, I wasn't naïve enough to think he felt the same, was I? Now I wasn't too sure. I'd never thought of him as my brother, I didn't love him like I loved Elliott and Max but I did love him. I hit my head with the book and began pacing the room. 'Stupid stupid Eva.'  A soft knock came from my door, 'Can I come in?' Jasper's voice was soft. 

I crossed the room and locked the door, I didn't fear him but I feared his rejection, he couldn't think the same about me. Maybe I could just avoid him for a while, Go and stay with friends for the rest of the summer and just not have to see him everyday. I looked at the solid oak door and gulped, 

'I don't think that's a good idea.' I murmured. 

I heard his footsteps dissipate down the landing and let of a relieved sigh. Then I realised something totally relevant, that I shared an adjoining bathroom with Max, I stumbled to the bathroom door and grabbed the handle but Jasper bet me to it, pulling it open from the inside and stepping into me. We stood there for a moment just staring at each other, I didn't even realise he had a hold of my upper arms until he began to stroke them with his thumbs. He bent over inching his face close to mine, I jerked back but got absolutely nowhere, my eyes darted from left to right trying to read his expression. He chuckled 'Now you look at me, do I have your attention now?' He kissed me softly, his lips were cool against mine, small tentative kisses until my brain kicked in and I started to kiss him back. I threw my arms around his neck and pressed into him, as he moved one hand to the base of my back the other ran up my spine and twisted in my hair near the base of my skull. We shuffled back until we hit the bed frame and fell onto the mattress, I heard a thud, thud as Jasper discarded his shoes and we jostled further up the bed, never breaking off or away. 

I unbuttoned his shirt and pushed it down with my hands, he pulled back to pull it off and I took the opportunity to lose an item; I pulled the vest over my head and threw it aside.  I felt the heat rising from my stomach as his danced his finger across my navel and then up to my ribs. His eyes blazed a shinning grey but this time I wasn't scarred, I was excited. I ran a hand down his chest and he took a ragged breath. 'Evie' he growled, pouncing on me for another deep kiss, I pulled back breathless as he kissed my throat then my chest. He ran his tongue down to my navel and around the sensitive area near my pelvic bone. I gasped and arched upwards, gripping his shoulders and digging my nails in. 

It felt so right, being with him. No awkwardness, no doubt or wondering. The way he touched me, the way I retaliated was instinct.

He teased me, biting gently and tugging at skin, until I whispered a very undesirable and unlady like word. He followed the pattern back to my mouth and smoothed my hair from my face with his hands. I ran my index finger up and down his muscled back and spine, tracing random patterns, lingering at the lower back and tugging slightly at the elastic of his boxers. He grinned and shambled off the bed pushing them off, I sat forward and removed the last remaining of my clothes and perching on my knees as his eyes ran over my body. I shivered at his gaze and gave a small giggle, resting my chin against my shoulder. He blinked spatially for a moment then pressed either arm against me on the mattress, his warm breathe tickled my neck, 'so beautiful' he said gently kissing under my ear lobe. 

As we fell back into the pillows, I could feel him hard against my leg, I rubbed gently with my thigh and heard he moan in between kisses, I moved my hand between us and teased him gently, moving my hand up and around. He arched back as I bit down on my lip. 'Seductorre' He moaned. I laughed loudly and arched up to meet him, a girl can only wait so long. 

I woke up very comfortable in my bed afterwards to the rays of orange and red dancing through my window and two tanned arms holding me close to a warm chest. I wriggled slightly and disengaged from Jasper's grip, replacing the shape of me with a very fluffy pillow. 

I scooted towards the bathroom and accidentally stubbed my toe on a chest of drawers; I yelped and covered my mouth, hobbling into the bathroom and cursed myself through muffled whispers. I set the shower going and stepped under the force, running a finger over my lips and cheeks, and smiled to myself.

The hot water beat down on my front and over my face, I squashed the bottle of lemon shower gel into my palm and rubbed it over my skin. I stood eyes closed and drank in the lemon scent. I sudden thought popped into my mind. How would my father react to this? I panicked at the prospect he'd always been a little over protective but this time, this could cause serious trouble. Jasper had just been accepted and started training as a Guardian and had been accepted as a council delegate until his training was complete, my father was his guarantor until he proved himself to the council. 




Of Water & Fire Ch. 02



I didn't think sleeping with an elder's daughter was going to help his case much, especially since Guardians were forbidden from having relations with Elder's daughter, nieces, whatever. I started to over react, not only would Jasper lose his home and family with us, so would Amy, I couldn't let that happen, they'd already lost one home, this time it would be my fault and I couldn't bare it. I turned off the water and grabbed blindly for a towel, wrapping it around myself and bounding out of the bathroom. 

Jasper was initially startled by the grasping of the bathroom door, blinked widely before hitting me with a dazzling grin. 'Hello' he dazed running his eyes over my attire. 'If I knew it was shower time, I would have joined you.' He slide up to the head board and patted the bed next to him. I shook my head, 'No you have to go.' 

I picked up his boxers and flung them at him. He opened his mouth to speak as I raised a finger, 'please.' He balled the item in his hand and threw it, 'I'm not going anywhere until you tell me what's wrong.' 

I took a deep breath and fumbled with my hold on the edge of the crisp towel and looking at my feet, 

'This shouldn't have happened Jasper.' 

The words were dry and it hurt my throat to speak them. I spun towards the drawers and started searching for clothing, this was not a discussion I wanted to have while we were both nearly naked. I was on my second drawer when Jasper turned me to face him, at least he'd put on the boxers. 

'Do you regret it?' he question was honest, he tone uncertain.

'No' I looked up at him and pressed my hand against his cheek. 'I don't regret it.'

'So what's the problem Evie?' He gestured between us 'this could be brilliant, why not at least try?'

'Because you're a Guardian and I'm an elder's daughter and this' I repeated his action 'it is against the law Jasper.' 

Jasper's eyes became wide as the realisation of the situation dawned on him, I stepped back hitting my back into the half opened drawer and winced. I shimmered past him and pulled on the t shirt and bed shorts I scrambled together. Then picked up Jasper's clothes and held them out for him, 

'Please.' The word came out unsteady and the look on his face made my chest tighten. I could feel the tears building and tried to blink them away. He spoke softly and rubbed my cheek, 

'Evie I love you.'

I pulled away and coughed away the thick emotion in my throat, 'If my father finds out about this you'll lose everything, do you understand? Please Jasper.' 

I watched the conflict on his face and wavered, maybe...no. I turned away towards the windows and waited for him to leave. I heard the floor boards creek under foot, and then the slow opening and quietly clicking close of the door. I flopped down on the edge of the bed, my heart felt heavy; I let the tears flow freely.



Of Water & Fire Ch. 03



I was pulled back into the present by the sounds of car doors closing and the crunch crunch of the gravel near the front door. As the front door slammed closed and voices emerged, Jasper tightened his hold on me and spoke in a sleepy voice.

'Max and Elliot are back.'

'Mmm.' I eased out of the embrace and stretched before heading through the patio doors into the kitchen, confronted with Max's back side hanging out of the fridge.

'Where have you been on a Sunday?' I slipped into a barstool as he turned and removed a wedge of uncut bread from his mouth, dumping the majority of the fridge's contents on the counter for a mammoth sandwich. Its moments like this I realise how much Max and I actually look alike. He has the same dark hair and green eyes but something playful is always lurking under the surface, Max's passivity and easy going nature always make me smile. He rubbed a good three days stubble growth on his chin as he debated his selection of knives in the block on the counter.

'Max?' I took a slice of ham from the pack and nibbled, determined to keep his attention before he got too distracted by food.

'Dad got a phone call last night from an irate Uncle John.'

Uncle John aka John Harrington was our father's oldest friend and so to us had always been uncle John. He'd known my father since his wizard schooling days and always had a story to tell. Much like my father he could command people with a look or glare, for him to be irate about anything was indeed a big deal. As wizardry hierarchy, each over see an area. John currently oversaw area 3. As I finished chewing, I felt Jasper slide into the sit beside me and instantly joined the conversation. 

'Spill it Max'

Max continued constructing his masterpiece of a sandwich as he spoke, 'A girl went missing from area 3 on Wednesday evening. So John followed protocol, informed the authorities and blah blah...' He stopped to take a bite and chew. I drew a calming breathe, trying to come between Max and food wasn't exactly the easiest way to get information. 

'So the girl's family started a search party last night, dividing up the local woodlands and countryside. Dad has already offered our services but apparently this girl was known to take a little wander now and then.'

'So what's different this time?' Jasper rose crossing over to the coffee machine and filling two cups.

'Well that's the thing' Max mumbled between bites, 'They couldn't locate her with the usual magical methods and she normally comes home within 24 hours, not this time'

'Did they find anything? Jasper handed me a cup.

Max frowned and put down the sandwich. 'They found the girl, it wasn't pretty.'

My father choose that moment to enter the kitchen. I heard his dress shoes clink on the tiles. Jasper smiled, 'busted' he whispered into his cup.

'Indeed' My father retaliated. Max and I exchanged a guilty look. What is it about parents that no matter the age can make us refer back to a child like state? 

I watched my father fill a coffee mug, adding milk and sugar with such slow emphasis I was on the edge of my seat, impatient for answers. 

'As Max mentioned the details aren't pretty and the situation shook up John a little.' My father sighed, 'They found the young girl tied to tree in the local woods, after that area had been previously searched, the specifics of which I cannot divulge, but in the surrounding areas there where several pieces of evidence found relating to tribal, sacrificial practice. In particular a makeshift alter.'

'Have you informed the rest of the council members?' Jasper asked.

'Yes, I did first thing this morning, hence my sending Max and Elliott to record all information and make a report for the council, Elliott is writing it up as we speak. I've invited the council members for lunch tomorrow to consul the situation.' He took a sip of coffee.

Jasper nodded as I inwardly cringed, most of the elders still believed in treating women like china dolls, too feminine or delicate to partake in...well, anything. It was far to say that over the last few years I had had a couple of heated debates and disagreements with a few of the older council members. One in particular...

'Yes Eva, Damien Greene will be in attendance.' My father smirked as he answered what I didn't want to ask.

Damien Greene and I had a rather colourful past verbally speaking. Firstly, Damien believed women of the wizardry world were inferior than the male of the species, which he barely tolerated. He often criticised my father on his decision to train me for council business for the ESNC, not that I'm the first female trained, just the first female wizard. Long story short, me and my brothers had got steaming drunk with a few of his bodyguards one night and joked about his sexuality only to find him standing at the door listening. He was not impressed and his plum like colouring really showed that. Also he had a dislike for Jasper, double whammy.

'Why would that bother me?' I asked innocently, clearing away coffee mugs as Jasper scoffed.

I heard my father chuckle as I dumped the items in the sink, eager to get involved, I flashed a smile.

'So when do you want me to start researching the evidence?' 

My father reached out to tuck a strand of my hair behind my ear and smiled warmly, 'as soon as Elliott finishes writing up all the witness accounts of what was found. We're still waiting on the ESNC coroners for an autopsy and their results. However, I see no reason for you not to start ASAP.' He motioned to Max, who nodded as he continued to chew and followed my father to the study.

I turned back to the sink and started washing my cup, Jasper arms encircled around my waist, his chin resting on my shoulder. 

'So' he breathed into my ear. 'So' I answered. 

'Want to squeeze in a quickie before people start arriving?' 

I twisted to look at him as he waggled his eyebrows.

'You're serious?' 

He smiled and took my hand, resting it against the bulge in his pants. As I cupped him, he groaned. I rubbed him a little, stepping closer. 'You are serious.' I restated.

He moaned, 'I would never joke about that.'

I leaned forward to kiss that sinful mouth while still working my hand and administrations. 'Tell me first.' I whispered between chaste kisses as pushed me back against the sink with his body.

'I love you,' he answered horsely, he threw back he head and moaned, 'gods, I love you'

i moved me hand away at great protest to link them around his neck as we kissed passionately. It was true that once most of the council arrive we would only have chaste movements and exciting as they were I needed a fix. Now. 

His calloused hand lifted grabbed my arse cheeks, lifting me off the floor and carrying me through the door into the patio, as we entered, one arm secured my waist as he kicked the door shut making the glass rattle and fumbled with his free hand to close the blinds.

As he set me down on the sofa we previously left, I pulled the top I wore over my head and unzipped my jeans pulling them off with my panties. Jasper had done the same, leaving his toned tanned legs on display as he kicked off the denim. I took in the view watching his naked body glisten in the mid-afternoon sun, gloriously naked and very erect.

He dropped in front of me with a growl, grabbing the top of my thighs and dragging me to his mouth. He knew me too well. Knew exactly where and when to lick, nimble and suck and that is what he proceeded to do. He groaned and the vibration make me shiver in pleasure. I grabbed his hair with a slight pressure and arched, needing more. 

He pulled back and blew on my most intimate area delicately, chuckling as I moaned and writhed on the cool leather. Suddenly the pressure and the wonder of his mouth was back on me accompanied by two thrusting fingers. In no time at all, the building in my lower stomach was erupting and I cried out his name on the crest of pleasure.

He smiled, one full of male satisfaction and accomplishment as he kissed me gently, still working those magical hand and drawing every little tingle and shiver from my heated body. As I gripped his shoulders, I felt him shift and something hard rub against my entrance.

'Seductore' he hissed as he continued to tease us both with a gentle rub and nudge of his shaft. I could feel the second coming fast approaching and I grabbed both sides of his head, as our eyes met, he thrust forward and filled an emptiness only he could.

I skimmed his back, feeling the muscles flinch and stretch as well as skimming the light sheen of sweat building, as i reached his firm arse, he pulled back and thrust again, I held on for the ride as he jackhammered in and out, strong and so sure. He altered his technique, his pace until we were both so lost in the moment. On and on until I heard my own voice call out, 'Oh Jasper Yes!' as my sensed was flooded with an orgasm so intense I thought i saw stars. He moved forward one last time, hard and deep and cried my name.

Our heavy breathing was all that filled the air as we basked in the afterglow. Jasper moved back pulling me with him till I straddled his waist engulfed in his arms. He toyed with my hair as I listen to his heartbeat slow to a regular thump. Thump.

Both our heads snapped up at the sound of crunching gravel from the front of the house. I looked to Jasper who smiled. 'I'm gona want a replay later.' he chuckled.

'Really?' I sat up straighter, then dipped my head to suck his nipple into my mouth. I pulled back as I felt his hand descend, touching my clitoris. 

As car doors slammed, we both jerked. 'definitely later' I grinned, standing to dress. First it was time to solve the puzzle of the dead girl.



Of Water & Fire Ch. 04



It wasn't my favourite place to be at that moment in time. I was shuffled into my father's study along with several other members of the ESNC. Everyone was buzzing with conversation about the girl that had been found at uncle Johns.

'We are just waiting on Elder Greene to begin.' My father announced with an air of royalty. I was tempted to roll my eyes but persisted. 

When he spoke people listened, I admired my father for his constant resolve and ability to calm and defuse most situations. 

I glanced over at Jasper who was in deep conversation with the vampire representation of the council, A tall, broad scot by the name of Conrad. No one knew his surname. Hell most were so scared of him, the just referred to him as Elder. Jasper caught my eye and flattered in his speech. His eyes undressed me and I knew he was reliving something. I shivered and bit my lip. Conrad looked over and gave me a wink. I hadn't seen him in a while but he'd always been someone i could talk too. 

I hoped council business didn't drag on too long. I was sobered by the thought of why we were all meeting up together and felt guilty. That poor girl.

Uncle John entered the room with an A4 envelope, no doubt it contained all the information on the evidence found. The loud booming laughter from the hall wall announced Elder Greene's arrival. 

His son entered before him, Daniel Greene. I'd never spoken to him much but he was always polite. We exchanged a nod and smile as he greeted my brothers and other members. 

Damien Greene entered afterwards, he nodded to all while sucking an a cigar. At 6'6 he was a big guy, like a defensive player on a rugby team and also the wolves alpha and their representative. He was as broad as he was wide. He looked to me and his gruff exterior became more so. If he didn't have few manners, I swear he would growl when we met. 

He addressed me with a sneer, with which gave a dazzling smile and offered refreshments to everyone. 

My father soon got down to business, he laid out all the information on the desk, everyone was handed a copy. As he spoke everyone fanned through the sheets.

'We know the girl's name is Katie Morgain, 13 years old and just going through he first magical burst, such as is with puberty. Her magically testing refers to an inclination towards water. Which is highly unusual in the female of our sex. Only a few each generation are born.'

Conrad spoke up in a thick accent, 'Do we know anything about the ritual yet?' 

'No,' Elliott responded, 'This is just the preliminary meeting, some elders couldn't attend and so we hope to take advantage of you who have gracious attended to conduct a full investigation.'

'Who is going to be leading the research end of this investigation.' Elder Greene asked.

'That would be Eva' My father answered with a smirk.

'I find I must object' Elder Greene scoffed.

'Why's that?' Jasper asked

'She's not experienced.' He smirked.

'Nah, I think you'll find Eva's been researching for the council since she was a Teen' Conrad spoke up. 'She's more than competent.'

I shook my head, 'I'm more than comfortable if Elder Greene wishes to replace me. The main focus should be getting to the bottom of this, whoever is researching what doesn't really matter.'

Damien huffed and sat back. Score one for Eva.

As the majority of the occupants of the room filled out, I hung back to speak with my father.

'Eva?' He said, without looking up, scanning the maps on his desk.

'Is this everything you can give me to start researching?'

He removed his glasses and cleaned then on his tie. He nodded, 'Still waiting on the autopsy report.'

I moved to the glass cabinet that covered nearly a full wall to the right of his desk. The history and text books of magic where lined up chronologically and alphabetically according to my own system. My father and I where the main people who accessed them, it made things simpler. 

I pulled out a few history texts and curled up the sofa. The leather squeaked beneath me as I settled in. As I made my own notes and scanned the photos attached to the report. The sound of my father scribbling and shuffling papers sounded in the background and the occasional outburst of laughter coming from the conservatory. I smiled to myself.

One photo that caught my attention had some scribbling marks on the 'alter' in one photo. It was untidy but I also didn't recognise it. Several things marked it as strange.

For one, No pentagram, which surprising is one of the few things that usually is still used in sacrificial killing. The fact is, for some reason, people still can't connect the fact that sacrifice is all about power. And anything coming through a pentagram is no going to want to share jack shit.

Two, a circle seemed to be surrounding the area and from the reports it wasn't made of salt, which seals a circle, this was made of something else. The guy's at ESNC where still analysing partials.

I stood as my feet started to fall asleep. I wander to the laptop open on my father's desk. 

Elliot had been compromising a data base for the last few years. Entering crimes, pranks and other stuff committing into a single type of search engine. We'd completed something similar together that compromised of people's information within each individual district. It saved time and resources.

I typed in a few key words and watched the timer flicker over and over. 1320 results found typical.

I paced round the office. Ginger had been found at the scene and the victim strongly smelled of it. I knew what this meant but my brain wouldn't work. 

Ginger, ginger. I pulled a spell book from the cabinet. It was outdated but useful. My father was busy scribbling away in a journal as I paced and skimmed the book's pages. Aha!

Ginger was used in a sleeping draft to dull the sense and induce sleep. I made a note of the book and spell page. So that gave me something to work on. Katie could have been induced into sleep and taken to site in the photos.

The circle, The circle. That is what next started to tickle my brain. If not salt what else? I started to look into protection spells and the components.

I looked up to stretch my neck, surprised to find the sun had set and the evening was upon us outside the window. 

My father appeared beside me with two cups of coffee and sandwiches on a tray. He sat beside me and slide the tray onto the coffee table. I took a long drink and nodded. 

'Anything?' he asked.

'So far a few tit bits, nothing enough to present to everyone.' I nabbed a sandwich and took a bite. 'Not yet anyway.'

'I was puzzled by the circle' My father pointed to the photo on the table.

I nodded as I chewed. 'I know, only thing in the books is salt. I'm going to try the data base before I humble myself to ask Elder Greene for one of his wolves'

'To re-examine the site.' My father nodded as he took a napkin and a sandwich.

'It's already compromised with the time lapsed but it can't hurt to try and get what we can.'

We ate and drank in silence, it was never an awkward or uncomfortable experience with my father, most of the time we where just lost in our own thoughts.

'Some of the boys have gone down to the boat house.' My father said breaking our reprieve. 

The boat house was a ten minute walk from the main Collingwood house, It consisted of two rooms, an open plan kitchen seating area and one double bedroom. Whenever people came to visit. We'd have a few drinks at the boat house to avoid the scrutiny of the elders.

'Yeah' I answered with a yawn. I picked up another book and some notes, starting to flick the pages.

My father took the book and literally scooped up everything on my lap. 'It'll still be here in the morning. You've been at this hours, go relax or get some sleep.'

As I got up, Uncle John and Damien entered the room cigar box in one hand and brandy glasses in the other. I raised an eyebrow at my father.

He winked and kissed my cheek. 'Go On.'

* I could hear the music coming from the boat house from the back door of the house. I briefly changed out of my formal wear and into a pair of jeans and a checked shirt. Slipping on a pair of converse and pulling my hair back into a pony, I strode down the slight slop to the lake and boat house.

The sound system was pumping an arrange of eighties hits and rock music. As I neared the door the remnants of a smiths song was being butchered by Conrad and Elliott. 

As I neared, Jasper was sat on the small patio area with Daniel Greene sipping from corona bottles. They where laughing over something. Suddenly Jasper's head turned and he locked onto my position. 

That intensity used to scare me, initially it always reminding me of a hunter watching prey. Now, it just made my insides tingle. He clasped Daniels shoulder and he nodded. He gently place his beer on the wood floor boards and jumped the three steps down, striding towards me. The lanterns in the trees cast an errie glare onto the lake but made making out people a little easier that totally darkness. 

'Hello' He said as he got closer, offering me a hand and smiling broadly. 

'Hello yourself.' I took his hand and we briefly kissed in greeting. he tasted like Jasper and light beer.

The music flared up again, this time the sound of Madness tracks blasted through the windows. 

'How come you're not inside?' I asked as we strolled to the main house.

'Daniel seemed a bit on edge, I don't think he's used to the freedom we have here.' He said with a chuckle.

'Figures.' I added with a nod.

'Drink?' Jasper pulled me up the three stairs to the front door, I nodded in response.

* 

As we entered inside, a roar of approval sounded at the change of track, by the light, they were drunk, not just merry, drunk. 

As I scanned the room, a few of the local girls where huddle on the leather sofa, clearly engrossed in something Max was explaining with animated hands, spilling most of his drink each time. 

Elliott was fiddling with a stack of CDs, Conrad was refilling his drink. A few others littered the space. 

Jasper handed me a bottle of beer, over the other arm was a blanket. 'Let's head outside.'

I shook my head, 'You can stay, I'll have one or two and head back to the main house.'

Jasper smirked, 'I can tell you're not really feeling it.' He held open the door and we moved outside. 

On the patio I snuggled against him and took a drag from my bottle. I felt uneasy, normally I could distract myself from most things I read, but the images I'd seen bothered me. I looked out over at the lake.

'You want to tell me what's bothering you?' Jasper asked playing with the edge of the blanket.

I twisted round to look at him, I looked over his face before turning back to the lake and taking a drink. I shrugged. I just couldn't settle. 

'Come on Evie.'

'I can't disconnect.' I said quietly. 'I keep seeing those images in my head and thinking of that Katie girl. Its just so...sickening, sad. She was so young and a water bearer. What was done to her is wrong.'

'It is, but things like this happen all the time, in our world and the norms.' Jasper pulled the blanket round us a little closer. 'Some people's brain's just don't connect right.' He chuckled, 'does that make sense?'

I nodded and yawned. 'I'm just tired, I just feel like something is staring me in the face...' The thought trailed off and I moved to stand. 'I'm going to make my way up to the main house.'

'I'll walk with you.' He folded the blanket. 

'No.' I touched his arm, then his cheek. 'You stay, relax. This is my issue.'

The door creaked open and Conrad stepped out. 'I'll accompany her home Di Angelo.'

Jasper considered that for a moment, I could almost see the wheels turning in his brain. He didn't like it. He liked Conrad but he didn't like how Conrad liked me.

'Thanks Conrad.' He offered his arm and I took it. As I looked back at Jasper who was frowning unhappily. 'I'll see you later'

* 

Conrad and I didn't speak for a few moments. 'I've missed you.' He said quietly.

I smiled up at him, 'You know where I am, and I know you can use a phone.'

'Aye you're right.' He sighed, 'I heard what you said to Di Angelo.'

'She was so young Con and I feel like I'm missing something major.'

'In this case or in life?'

I frowned, 'Maybe both. You analysing me?'

'Always, I like to use every opportunity to my advantage.'

Conrad was one person I'd always had an easy relationship with, he wasn't family by blood but pretty close. I found myself being reminded of what he was all too soon and that scarred me sometimes. 

I realised at that moment we where alone and half way between the main house and where we had been. 

'Think of something else.' He said quickly, 'You heart rate has increased.'

'Sorry.'

He shook his head. 'You're right to feel that way sometimes, I am what I am.'

As I neared the main house, we could see my father, John and Damien through the bay window of the office. 

'What are they discussing?' We hit the gravel with a crunch.

'I'll never tell.' he smiled and pushed open the front door. As I neared the stairs I turned back.

'Night Con.'

'Night Eva.'

* I slept a fitful night's sleep. I couldn't settle into the land of nod, for what felt like hours. When I did I was plagued with strange images and dreams.

I was running through the woods, everywhere time I turned around to follow the sound of laughter that echoed behind me, there was nothing there. I lost of sense of direction and found myself twisting this way and that, all could see was trees and the cold wind against my skin. The laughter got louder, I could see light in the distance so I turned and ran for it, a bolt of magic blocked my way. The remnants of which caught my hand sending a burning sensation running up my arm. As I gripped my forearm and frantically turned in the opposite direction, I nearly missed a bolt to my feet skidding to a holt. This time the laughter had a voice. 

'Where are you going princess?'

I eyed the trees, glowing pairs of amber eyes followed and tracked my movements. I could hear the growl and rumble of bodies belonging to the wolves. I turned and viewed the figure striding towards me. 

Holding an orb of green light, a figure a good foot taller than me stopped inches away from me.

'Who the hell are you?' I asked breathless.

'Your worst nightmare, I'm coming for you princess.' 

As his hand stretched out to grab me, I screamed and shot up upright in my bed. 

The room was still in darkness after I turned off my lamp. As I scanned the room. The LCD on my digital clock flashed '00:00' at some point the second floor must have lost power. 

I reached over to the lamp and switched it on with a shaky hand. I took a sip of water from the glass on the bedside table, managing to get more on my vest than in my mouth. Shit, I was spooked. 

I reached across to the foot of the bed too grab Jasper's hoodie and recoiled as pain shot through my hand. On my right palm a jagged line marred the area as blisters started to form. 

I could hear the sound of footsteps heading my way as I tried to analyse what had just happened. The door flung open and Damien Greene and my father entered.

'Eva what's going on?' My father asked his brow worried.

I lifted a shaky hand and showed them the wound.

'Dream.' I mumbled, 'Thought it was just a dream.'

*



Of Water & Fire Ch. 05



I stared down at my hand for an eternity as voices rumbled around me. My father was speaking to me but all I could hear was white noise. A faint buzz in my ears like I'd stood to close to an amp. I knew the sound well, Jasper and I had been to enough festivals and gigs for me to know what it was. Why it was happening now, I didn't know. 

I barged past my father and made my way to the bathroom, in a frenzy I had the lid up and that bottle of corona was on its was back up and hitting the bowl. 

I felt a rush of warm over take my senses and the pounding of the burn on my hand. I looked at it, carefully and hesitantly, touching it with my finger, god it hurt, angry, red and so very random. How had it even got there? And there went the sandwiches. I closed my eyes, as my stomach churned, all I could see were trees and woodland. 

'Hey' A cool hand touched my forehead, the sensation jolted me up. Elliot was looking down at me, concern etched in his features. 'You ok?' 

Was I? I didn't know. I felt weird, little things were happening inside my body I had no control over. 'I don't know..' I muttered quietly.

'We heard some noises downstairs, and you were screaming Evie.' Elliot frowned and perched down beside me, I got a whiff of his after shave and felt another urge to vomit. 

'Just....I don't know.....a dream maybe.' Because what way could I describe it. I looked down at my feet, expecting them to be covered with Earth and muck. 'I need a shower' I pulled myself up with no grace what so ever. Elliot steadied me with a hand.

'Evie what the hell is going on?' Elliot gripped my arm tighter. 

'I have no clue, all I know is I need to have shower and maybe a cup of strong tea?'

Elliot, gave one nod, moving around me, he pulled the shower curtain across the bath and set the shower going. 'I'll wait outside, Dad won't let it go Evie, he'll want to know what has you spooked.'

'I'm not spooked-' I started to argue. 

'Don't try lying to me, I can smell your fear and the dishonesty you nearly uttered. I know you better than you think.' He smirked, 'I'm your big brother and nothing gets past me' 

'Okay, just don't say anything to Jasper yet. He freaks out when I get a paper cut.' I pulled the hoodie over my head, catching Elliot's eye he looked sheepish. 'He's already on his way isint he?' I sighed. 

'Dad had me text him after you bolted for the bathroom. You know the rules, the only way the council would concede to you two being together was if he placed himself as your protector.'

And there came another wave of sickness. I put my head against the tilling on the wall, it was cool but clammy from the rising steam. 

Thoughts of court rooms and being separated were suddenly fresh in my mind. Memories assaulted me. After our first intimate encounter, I started to unravel. Jasper was under my father's protection and the situation in which he arrived with us was still fresh with the older members of our governing council, always looking upon him with paranoia. Not only that but being together was in condemnation of some Law to keep daughters of the council 'pure'. 

I couldn't help think Jasper was going to be taken away from us and be alone. That thought had scared me more than anything, to have found some balance and acceptance and then to have it taken away. 

So I decided I would stayed away from him. For as long as I could. I avoided training with Max, unless he assured me we'd be alone. I only went to the lessons I had to. Stayed with friends or at Uncle Johns at the weekends, so I didn't have to come home. I kept this it up albeit successfully for a few months. 

When my health suddenly took a noise dive, I had had no choice but to return home. It had been a typical saturday afternoon, I was enjoying a swim in Uncle Johns pool, when suddenly I felt bone tired. My limbs so heavy I struggled to get out of the pool. The signs had been sneaking up on me for weeks and I refused to acknowledge them, trouble sleeping, hot sweats, lapses in concentration. That day I knew what is was. 

Normally, Wizards experience bursts of power throughout their lives, premeditating their roles within our society. The first bout normally hits near puberty, from this, it could be determined which element you were affiliated with and your family are obligated to train you accordingly. 

Second burst hits when you have obtained reasonable control over that power a year or so later, about 80% of wizards dont develop after this, they reach second grade and boom, they live their lives happily with the knowledge they have and they continue to hone and develop in their field. The third bout normally hits late teens and male wizards experience this with no real affect. The Ladies of our race however, face a battle from the inside out.

Females wizards were educated to believe the third affected woman so badly, due to Morgain's betrayal of Merlin. That Merlin had then cursed her and all her females descendents, that in order to able to reproduce, the ability to do so would have to be earned through pain and hardship. So the third was a silent struggle, no women really spoke of it, it was just accepted. The more power you were due, the more the suffering. It was just another sexist point within the council.

In addition, the sneaky third bout of power in this process also gives wizards a secondary set of skills. It is believed that the third burst of power offers no definite ideals as to what it offers to specific individuals. The third bout of power is unique to each individual. Max, had an errie sixth sense, not altogether clear at times. Elliott, could deduce and sense dishonesty. Jasper, could find whatever he wanted and could read people. My father, never let his secondary set of skills be known and that was why to me he seemed to have no weakness.

I'd had lessons regarding the third stage of wizardry, pre-cursers one might feel to let you know your time was coming. Only, I had ignored mine and my magic didn't like that. I'd been so busy keeping away from Collingwood and Jasper, I hadn't been thinking straight for weeks. I lay by the side of the pool panting for breathe, After an eon I crawled to the bench and pulled myself up, my skin was on fire and I could feel my heartbeat throbbing through my chest. Uncle John, knew where I was. After several minutes I shuffled to the door and stretched to push a button on the intercom phone system. After a few rings, Uncle John sounded over the speaker. 'Hope you're out Evie, lunch is nearly ready.'

'Uncle John...I dont feel so good'

'What hunny?' crackling come over the speaker.

'I think I'm entering my third.' I croaked as a flush of warm energy surged through my body and I gripped the phone harder. 

'By the light Evie, stay where you are, I'm Coming.'

So I did, I stayed were I was, my hand sliding down the wall. 

When I finally opened my eyes from dark nightmares, dreams and fights with demons and monsters in sleep, the brightness of the room hurt my eyes, my mouth was sore and dry. Jasper Di Angelo was laid beside me. His hair tussled, his brow furrowed in sleep, his hand was firmly clenching mine. I was home in my own bed. I shuffled a little, a drip was attached to my hand and the bleeping of a machine filled the warm air. Jasper opened his eyes slowly and he looked at me in wonder. 

'How are you feeling?' He asked quietly, using his free hand to touch my face. 

'Like some one ran over me with some horses, maybe a train.' 

Jasper moved quickly, helping me sit and offering me a sip of water. I took little sips as he stroked my hair, 'How did I get home?' My voice sounded rough, unused in a while.

Japser sighed, 'I came to collect you, I wouldn't let anyone else come, John rang here and I answered. Said you were entering your third. How could you not tell anyone Evie? It was irresponsible and stupid!' He seemed particularly agitated. I looked down at my hands. He was in here, in my room unattended. 

'You told my father about us, didnt you?' I could feel my eyes getting teary.

'I had too, you were convulsing and fitting, I panicked and I blurted out everything. We had to get you to safety, you've been out of it for nearly a week Evie.' He tone was worried, he face etched with worry and tiredness. Then his eyes came alive and flashed with something else. 'I'm so angry with you!' He shouted, then blew out a long breath, waving his hands and standing.

And a weeks worth of nightmares, dream walking and things I'd seen, I was exhausted. Some things I was sure I would never tell a soul. I watched his face change and felt lost. I finally broke down. I sobbed into my hands. I was tired and drained, physically and emotionally. Weeks of turning off my emotions, being void and plodding through life like a robot and for what? I believed at that moment, I regretted giving myself to him, for loving him. Because even if I wasn't ready to admit it, I loved him. His berating of me then, made me wonder if I knew him at all. 

'Out!' the shout came suddenly and then I was being pulled and hugged. I heard the door slam and more voices from the landing. 

The smell of cigars and mint, let me know that my father held me tight. 'ssh' he said quietly, rocking me from side to side. Offering me comfort and love. I could feel the magic swell around me, whatever the gods decided I was going to get in my life was ready to find a home. It settled into my core and I juddered and quietened. 

A while later, the light from the window had dulled and night was crawling towards us. 'I always knew a daughter would be trouble' My father chuckled and I felt his chest moving. 

I laughed into the twilight and hugged harder. 

**

'Evie?' Elliot's voice pulled me back. 

'I'm ok, let me shower and I'll feel better, I promise.'

I heard the bathroom door close, stripped and climbed into the hot water, It beat down on my face as I closed my eyes and flashes from the dream before, floated into my vision. The smell of damp earth, foliage and trees. Of warm night air, hot and humid. The sound of sinister laughter echoing in my ears. I slammed my hand against the tile and opened my eyes watching the water whirl and swirl down the drain. I grabbed a toothbrush and toothpaste and frantically brushed my teeth.

I turned the water off and pulled back the curtain, to find Jasper sat on the toilet seat, his elbows rested on his knees, his hands hanging between. He watched me step out of the tub, with eyes glowing, surveying me from head to toe.

'I want to grab you and just reassure myself that you are ok but also, Id really like to lick every inch of water from your body.' He stood slowly and within a step, was in front of me with a towel. I lifted my arms and he wrapped it around me, slowly dropping his head to mine and kissing me thoroughly. Nothing to revive a girl like a shower and some heavy snogging. I smiled and the kissing deepened, my hands on his back pulling him close, lifting a leg to hook around him, His hand on my waist, the other in my damp hair and the we were shuffling until I was backed against the door. He tasted like beer and chocolate, no doubt from something he eaten or drunk a little while before but it was heavenly and just what I needed to pull myself from the muddled stock and uncertainty of the last hour or so. As I bought up my other hand to touch his cheek and jaw, it throbbed and burn and I cried into his mouth in pain before pulling away. 

'Shit' I hissed. 

Jasper moved back and carefully took my hand, ' You woke up with this?'

I nodded and opened my mouth to relay the story, Jasper lifted my hand and placed a gentle kiss on the injured palm. 'Lets get you dressed.'

**

The tea was strong, a dash of milk and plenty of sugar. I sipped it quietly and listened to the chatter around me, My father was nodding at something Elder Greene was saying and Max and Elliott were looking at a book open on my father's desk. The study was warm, a fire burned in the hearth, Jasper stood over it leaning on the mantel starring into the flames. 

I'd relayed the story to them, in details, smells, sounds, the description of the man who'd known me. I shivered at that. No one really made me ever made me feel scarred for my safety like he did and the churning in my stomach had me thinking that he'd be back again. 

Elder Greene spoke up loudly, 'I'm not discrediting the tale. I just think its all a little too convenient. The girl is found, Evie reads through the notes, the next thing she is having a vivid dream about said girl. I'm I the only one who finds this questionable?'

Everyone in the room went quiet. Why was I so surprised, The guy hated me and took every opportunity to either make it known or belittle me. I watched the unease around the room, seemed he wasn't alone in his thinking.What surprised me most was who spoke next. 

'You're right Greene, although you cannot doubt my need to protect my daughter.' My father took his seat behind the oak desk. His eyes fell on me and by his expression, my face must have registered some shock, 'We'll note this and keep Evie's statement to hand but I do believe there is nothing we can do presently, we'll need to talk to the girls family, see if she experienced anything similar.' 

I wanted for someone to say something, I knew I wasn't crazy. I stood slowly, placing the cup on the coffee table, I could feel their eyes watching me. I closed the door quietly behind me and continued walking. 

Before I knew it, I was descending the stairs to the workout area, the weapon's cabinet open before me with endless possibilities. I took hold of some Corvo knives and started working through a routine. Step, Stab, block, stab....stab....stab...stab. My hand throbbed with the exertion, I continued on. My vest top was wet with sweat and the hair was stuck to my forehead by the time I'd finally given up.

I was ready to leave it there but the treadmill came next, pounding away for an eternity. All I could see was Elder Greene's smug face as my father spoke. Never before had I felt my father doubted me. Had I really just dreamed it? The frustration fuelled my steps. 

I heard footsteps descend the stairs, catching his reflection in the mirrors, I realised he wanted to be seen. Conrad floated over to me with a unnatural grace and speed, standing next to the treadmill, using a swipe of his hand to slow the speed to a brisk walk.

I turned to look at him, His hair was damp and wild, his eyes sparkling and alive, he'd fed tonight. He was wearing cargoe pants and a plain tee and I caught the whiff of soap, clean and fresh. 

'Wanna talk 'bout it?' He looked me over and banged his hand on the stop button, drawing the item to a complete stop. 

'What's the point?' I tired to catch my breath as I took off my vest and wiped my head and neck leaving me in a sports bra. I collected the knives from the floor and placed them carefully in their home closing the cabinet. I bent to untie my running shoes, kicked them off and started to stretch.

'Maybe I could talk doll and you cud listen, aye?' He walked around the room inspecting every little thing, lightly touching things until I could see him above me as stretched flat on my back. 

'Things in this council move slowly, I should know I seen enough of it.' He let out a chuckle. 'I know you think you can change things with your attitude and confidence but all it does for a small minority is make them fight harder against changes. Greene will forever try to fight you if you keep fighting him.'

I pushed myself up on my elbows. 'It would help if I actually knew why he disliked me so much Con, If he didn't believe me tonight that's fine, but he goes out of his way to make me uncomfortable.'

'He doesn't dislike you Evie, he finds you a challenge. There's a difference hen, you give him something to play against. You training to be a guardian was a surprise to the council. Greene actually agreed to it.'

That surprised me. 'Why?'

'Lets look at the bigger picture here doll for a sec you kin? Elliott, computer geek, I love the boy, there is nothing electronically he can't handle but his mind is not programmed for council strategies or politics. He could show you how to hack a security system, quote full episodes of the mighty boosh but I doubt he could find a solution or debate the finer points in council meetings.'

I lay back against the floor, the cool wood floor hit my heated skin and made me pause and he continued. 

'Then there is Maximus Max. Your brother is a kind hearted soul, full of humour, a true ladies man I tell ye, he can play the entire metallica back catalogue on guitar but he too lacks a certain hard ability to lead. At times he can be off with whatever bit of tail takes his eye, he is not dependable. Both of them ready to take orders and not to give them. He's good at implementing security, good at training with weapons. So that leaves you.'

'Leaves me to what?' I sat up then, sitting crossed legged waiting for the rest. 

'From a young age, you have been to eager to know more, extra lessons, sitting in on council meetings, working for the council from your early teens. You were being trained Evie. Trained to lead. Greene agreed to the guardian training on the basis that it would give you a rounded experience on what it is we try to do and try to keep doing as a community, expecting you to fail. He knows your father's intention, whether he has told him out right or no'. Greene is not going to make any transitions for you easy. As sexist as it is, he sees you as a female and inadequate. The more you push, the harder he'll keep pushing back.'

'Bullshit Con, my dad let me into meetings to keep me quiet, keep me entertained. I was never meant to lead anyone. I'm not council material' I shook my head and stood, making my way to the stairs Conrad grabbed my arm. 

'You are so blind to what you are, what you could be. I see the light around you Evie.' He pulled me too him and hugged me hard, his mouth and damp hair close to my flushed face and neck. 'Di Angelo is a lucky man.' He murmured against my ear. 'I think about you sometimes, I think about us.'

I pulled away then and gave him a little shove. 'That was a long time ago Conrad.'

I felt myself blush as our eyes met. 

'A girl never forgets her first vampire kiss Evie. Thoughts of what might have been keep me warm some nights.'

Just like that I was transported back to my 17th birthday party, two weeks after my actually birthday and a few months before Jasper and I had been together for the first time. I'd stood at the kitchen counter watching Jasper fawn all over some girl in a short dress in the conservatory while I had been knocking back tequila shots and thinking I could take on the world, laughter & music sounding playing out around me. 

When I'd seen him kiss her again, my stomach had rolled and I'd made a quiet exit, skirting around them and out of the conversation doors. I found Conrad leaning casually against the stone wall looking up at the night sky with a tumbler of whiskey in one hand. He reminded me of a celtic god, strong and powerful.

'Its just a phase you know lass, he'll realise soon enough what's in front of him.' He'd drunk the last of the amber liquid, setting down the glass on a paving stone and held out his hand. 'Lets take a walk.'

We walked and talked through the woodlands, until I could walk no more and he'd piggy backed me home. The party was beginning to wind down, empty plastic cups and paper plates littered the lawn, but the music was still loudly and I could hear Max and Jasper laughing loudly. As we used the front door and moved to the living room, closing the door and blocking out the noise.

I watched him remove his leather jacket and slowly lay it down and then he'd been slowly moving towards me. 'I'd like to give you something for your birthday.' He'd said quietly, uncertain.




Of Water & Fire Ch. 05



I smiled, 'Con you gave me the earrings already.' I touched my ears were the small diamonds sat.

'Close your eyes.'

I rolled my eyes at him and shuffled from foot to foot before taking a breath and doing as he asked. 

I waited for a few seconds and then I felt his fingers lightly touch my arm, his breath on my neck. I shivered. Maybe it was the alcohol, Conrad was handsome but I....

He kissed each eyelid and then gathered me up for a hug, 'I would give you the world if you asked it of me. But I have a feeling you're not meant for me.' 

He set me down on my feet and starred transfixed, the pupils in his eyes changed quickly dilating and undulating back, His lips took on a strange red glow. It hit me then, he was making himself attractive to me. He was using his own talents to encourage a reaction from me. 

I giggled and tapped his arm, 'Are you putting the moves on me Conrad?'

'A guy can try doll' He smiled with a little bit too much fang, I looked at them fascinated by the sharp points and length, neatly sat on his bottom lip as his face became serious once again and the mask fell back to Conrad. Just him, no tricks. 

'What did you want to give me?' I asked in a whisper, but somehow I already knew, Conrad was going to kiss me and while he'd made himself look appealing I would have kissed him without all that shit. He was a wet dream for most women and while we both knew my heart belonged to someone else, someone else who was probably getting his kicks with someone else at that moment. I wanted to kiss him, I needed to be wanted by someone and though it was selfish, I wanted that too, to be selfish. 

'A Kiss.' He slowly dropped his head to my level and I rose to meet him on tip toe. I felt his tongue slowly flick across my bottom lip and then tentatively he kissed me and drew back, gauging for a reaction. 

I wrapped my arms around him and laughed, 'I hope you can do better than that, given you were around before electricity I'd expected a little bit more experience.'

He chuckled deeply and I felt it vibrate against my chest. 'I could show you a lot of things Doll, but tonight I'll settle for this.'

He kissed me slowly at first a slow build into something that made my toes curl. I gripped him for dear life as it turned aggressive, hands moved as we groped and tugged. My face, my chest, my body was on fire. I moaned into his mouth and dug my nails into his shirt. He gripped my arse and moulded me against him, lifting me from the floor. With one hand on his back, I ran the other to his head, gripping his blond locks and tugging. He tasted like sweetness and dark spices, the remains of whiskey added a kick to it all. 

We continued on moving around the room, up against the wall, I pushed him back into the door, moving my mouth along his jaw and then nipping his ears. He lifted me with one arm, the other quickly unbuttoning the front of my dress to expose my breasts in a lace bra. He made an inhuman noise and sucked slightly on the skin on the swell above my breast. 

I arched back and pulled his shirt up to expose his skin. I scratched his skin and bit his shoulder through the material. He pulled back and hissed. I pushed forward and we rolled onto the floor, hitting carpet. We laughed out loud and then then the moment was broken. 

We lay together on our backs starring at the ceiling, stupid smiles on our faces. I licked my lips and tasted a little copper. I gripped his hand and bought it to my mouth, dropping a quick kiss on his fingers. 

He rolled towards me and ran a finger across my lip and quickly sucked it into his mouth, 'Sorry about that.'

'So thats what a vampire kiss is like hmm?' I watched some emotions flit across his face. 

'That was just lust Doll, plain old fashioned lust. I could put the old vamp magic on you but from your reaction, you wanted me without it.' He smiled, very satisfied with himself. 

'I did, I do...but we both know I...Jasper...' I cut off and sighed.

Conrad played with the ends of my hair, 'Hes a fool. It makes me want you just a little bit more.'

'Then it a good job we stopped when we did. It was a wonderful present.' I turned to him and as our lips met and we kissed softly. He stood quickly and helped me to my feet. 

He tilted his head, listened and frowned. 'Party is wrapping up doll, How about some coffee?'

I nodded, 'Coffee would be lovely.'

So we'd sat the rest of the night drinking coffee, eating biscuits and talking about rubbish. When i'd woke the next morning, I'd been in my own bed, a glass of water and a yellow rose sat on the drawers beside my bed. 

I watched Conrad's face as I spoke softly, no doubt he had also been reliving the past, 'That was a long time ago, Jasper came to his senses.' I bent to pick up my discarded shirt. 'Do you think I made it up?'

Conrad shook his head, 'I don't. But I also think that maybe having your head in all those reports and all that evidence hasn't helped doll.'

'It felt so real Con.' I whispered. I touched the burn again, it had gotten smaller, it looked less angry.

'What do you wanna do about it all?' Conrad placed an arm around my shoulders and steered me to the stairs. 

'I want to go speak to that girl's parents and then go examine the site in the morning.'

'I meant about your hand' Conrad gave my bum a pat and nudged me up the stairs.

'What can I do? I don't know what to believe, or if my imagination has been running away with me.' I rubbed my temples as we reached the top of the basement stairs and entered the hall. 'Im so tired.'

'Go get some sleep doll, I'll appease the council.' Conrad entered my father's study and softly closed the door as I started up the main stairs. 

The door to my own room was open and the lamp was back on the side table and switched on. Jasper was unbuttoning his shirt as I entered and I stopped for a moment to admire the view. 

'Hey.' he unbuttoned his jeans and padded over to me bare foot. He gently tilted my shin and kissed my nose. 'Lets get some sleep.' 

At that moment nothing sounded so good.

**