In Love with a Human

Vida

New York City, Planet Earth

"Uhm, hello? Earth to Vida?" Tessa waved her hand in front of Vida in an attempt to pull her back from reality.

Vida looked up from the page she was reading and pulled her glasses that were slipping off of her nose. "Sorry, you were saying something?"

Tessa let out a huff and dramatically sat down beside her best friend. "You never seem to listen to me! You always have your head behind that book." She took the book from Vida's hand and playfully kept it out of her reach.

"Hey!" Vida giggled. "Stop it, Tessa. You'll get my page messed up."

Tessa would not actually lose Vida's progress in the book. She still sensibly kept her finger where Vida was reading and turned to take a look at the cover. "Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief," Tessa rolled her eyes. "Ugh, again? How many times have you read this book?"

Vida looked up and actually thought about it. Fantasy books have always enthralled her. There is something about these stories that make her fall in love a hundred or maybe even a thousand times.

Ever since Vida was a little girl, her grandfather would always give her books for Christmas and her birthdays. It started out with picture books until she could read and then she was a goner. Out of all the books she has read, it was Percy Jackson who really left a mark on her heart.

"I think, I've read it for about four times," Vida replied.

"Shut up. Don't fool me, you've read this more than four times." Tessa said as she handed her the book back to Vida. She looked at her friend to gauge her reaction. "They're not even real, Sades."

Vida reached for the bookmark inside the pocket of her Burn's Bar uniform and carefully placed it in between the pages. She took a deep breath and replied. "I know that. I'm just interested about their lives being a demigod, you know?" She knew that Tessa was genuinely curious as to why she was so invested in this book. Nobody actually really knows the real reason behind why she loves to read aside from Tessa. It was her escape from reality. Something she can call home whenever she hops from one apartment to another.

"Besides, wouldn't it be great if the actual Greek gods of many eons ago do exist in this modern times? I mean you could just imagine how they would be so freaked out about cellphones and computers? But in the book, technology is not a thing that jives well with the Mist. It's what they call the mystical veil that separates the world of demigods and mortals. Like for instance, that man over there," Vida gestures towards the man across the street with her head, hoping that she was not too obvious about it. "If we were, let's say, gorgons with snakes for hair, he would see us as normal girls on our way home from Burn's."

Tessa chuckled. "Out of all the mystical creatures in there, why would you compare us to snake-haired gorgons?"

Vida shrugged. "It was the one thing on top of my head! I'm sorry. But no worries, you my friend, are no gorgon in my eyes."

Her best friend rolled her eyes and gave a meaningful glance at the man across the street. "We never know, he might be the gorgon and we are just blinded by the Mist."

They both laughed. Vida silently thanks the universe for her best friend. She wouldn't be able to survive life in New York City if it was not for her.

It was nearing midnight and thankfully the bus arrives as scheduled. Friday nights were always the busiest nights of the week at Burn's Bar. It was always a given that the girls would be staying for more than 8 hours of duty. And since it was Tessa's turn to render overtime service, Vida was more than happy to accompany her friend in her shift. It was something Peter, the manager and owner of Burn's Bar, was grateful for.

Vida and Tessa waited as a handful of passengers got off for this stop. Once it was in the clear, they boarded the bus and swiped their bus passes. Since the bus was not very crowded at this time of the hour, they got the luxury of choosing their seats and those at the very back were their favorite one.

Once they got settled in, the bus doors closed and off they went. Vida stared out of the window and watched as the city lights flashed by. New York City at night is not very different from New York City in the morning. After all, it is the city that never sleeps. At 12:00 midnight, people were still out and about doing their usual Friday night businesses of club hopping and getting themselves shit-faced until Sunday. Oh, what would Vida give to have that kind of carefree life? Having the time of her life whenever she wishes to and not having to worry about paying the bills because she has a steady job to support herself.

But sometimes, life throws the worst of all curveballs and hands you the shittiest of cards.

At a very young age, she has seen the world as it is. Hard as it may sound, Vida has learned that people come and go and that you only have yourself to rely on. That is the reason why she relates so much to the characters in her book. She very much feels like her very own protagonist in her own story.

Vida shook her head. What a ridiculous thought. She needs to get a grip because her monthly rent is due next week.

She nudged her friend by the shoulder. "Hey, Tessa?"

"Hmm?" Tessa replied as she was rummaging her bag for a snack bar.

"Have you ever imagined yourself with super powers?"

She stops for a while and considers Vida's question. "I honestly have not thought about that." Tessa loves how her friend comes up with these quirky questions that actually makes you think about your answer. Her friend might be a bit out of touch with reality sometimes but that is what makes her unique and lovable in her own way. She indulged Vida and replied. "I think it would be cool to actually you know, be able to pass through walls and objects? I mean, it would save me some time serving the customers."

Vida laughed. Tessa can be candid at times and can really take her stress away with her wit and practicality. "Do you think Peter would give you a raise then?"

"He better! He won't be getting someone as pretty as me with an extra little perk of being able to walk across the tables." Tessa exclaimed.

They continued to chat about their theories about super powers and the convenience of what a world with magic could bring. When all chatter died down, Tessa asked a question that made her entire night. "But what if magic is real? What if there is another universe where humans have magical powers and they just didn't want us normies to know? Have you thought about it? With the discovery of UFOs, there might be a possibility to it."

Vida loves how her friend does not see her as a weirdo and engages with her wild ideas. Vida could not have asked for a better friend than Tessa. She laughed at Tessa and Tessa in return gave her a look of bewilderment, "What?"

"I mean, think about it Sades," Tessa looked up and saw that her stop was approaching. "The world is big and we haven't even explored the depths of our oceans. Anything is possible!"

"You know, for someone who does not consume fictional content on a daily basis, your theories are a bit too much."

Tessa pressed the button near the handle bars to signal the driver to slow down. She got up as the bus slowed down and looked down at Vida with a warm smile. "I swear, Sades. I got it all from you."

Vida returned it with one of her own. "You're crazy. See you on Monday, Tess."

Tessa made her way down the aisle of the bus and before she exited, she looked back and waved goodbye. "Don't let the gorgons get you!"

The few passengers on the bus looked behind at Vida with weirded out faces. She just gave them an apologetic smile and pulled out her book out of her bag to return to the world of modern Greek gods.

Tessa's words echoed through her head, as she thought about the possible existence of alternate universes. Excitement flooded her body. What if they are real?

Colter

Kingdom of Howard, Unknown

Colter always has a habit of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

"Fire!"

He also never meant to set the forest on fire.

"Someone help!"

"Quick, call the Neró-Ecanus!"

Five men were frantically trying to suppress the fire that innocently started out as a flame. Colter slowly backed away and tried melting into the shadows as more men came to help suppress the blaze that rapidly spread like the inferno.

He knew right then and there that he was in trouble. Colter thought to himself, when was he not in trouble, anyway?

Colter safely kept his distance from the wildfire that had almost reach the woodland edge. He wanted to bolt before anyone could figure out that it was him that caused the fire. But he had to ensure that the fire would be safely put out and that no one was harmed.

Another group of men, the Neró-Ecanus, arrived and immediately started putting out the fire with their Hydropathic talent, Torrential Outpour. When the fire finally subsided, Colter breathed a sigh of relief. He kept in mind that the next time he decides to stretch his arms for a practice of his talent, he should not be doing it around highly flammable materials.

The Ecanus' voices drifted around the now-still forest. Colter can hear them talking amongst themselves.

"What happened here?"

"We were cleaning up as we were done with today's wood work then suddenly a flash of light that came from somewhere over there was all we saw. It was blinding and the next thing we know, a small fire started."

"Was anyone hurt?"

"Thankfully, no one. But some of today's crops were perished."

Colter started to walk back, trying not to make any noise of sorts, to leave the area as soon as possible. It was indeed fortunate that no one was harmed by his stunt. However, a chilling voice made him stop his rather ungraceful exit.

"Well, well. If it isn't the deadweight of the Howards."

Colter let out a breath that he did not even know he was holding and unhurriedly turned around to face his worst enemy.

Gian Howard, Colter's elder brother, but most importantly his mortal enemy.

"Hello, brother." Colter said warily.

"You just can't stay away from trouble, can you?" Gian's silver eyes flashed maliciously. "Or rather, trouble seems to follow you anywhere you go."

Colter felt a small tingle at the tip of his fingers. He clenched his fists to stop them from setting ablaze. It was becoming a tradition to feel this sensation whenever his pompous brother opens his mouth. Scratch that, whenever his brother was around. "Let me guess, your woodland friends are doing their duty all too well to spy on me."

Gian leaned on a nearby tree and crossed his arms. "Colter, haven't you learned by now that I always have eyes and ears on everything? The moment you stepped out of the palace doors, I already knew where you're going. I also knew what racket you did in here today."

Colter tried hard not to roll his eyes. Of course, his brother would always gloat about his Ecanus ability, power over the forest. But for Colter, his brother's true ability was to be as obnoxious as possible.

The Ecanus, the citizens of Howard, are one of the most exceptional beings in this realm. They were all given the ability of flight and is given special talents once they are born in this world. You are a true Ecanus once you have the Mark, a special symbol burned to one's chest on their first birthday. The thought of burning a mark on a baby seems hardcore but it is one of the unique customs at Howard.

With great gifts comes with high stakes. Rules are imposed in order to keep the people in line. The highest sentence that the King can give is banishment from the kingdom and it is worse than death.

Unfortunately for Colter, his father was the King.

Colter's blood ran cold when he heard the one other voice that he wishes to not hear today.

"Colter."

Gian straightened from his lax posture when he heard the King approaching. He made a deep, gracious bow and it took every will of control for Colter not to slice off his head. "Your Highness."

Colter gave a curt bow and stood straight. It was always a sign of respect to keep your shoulders in check and your chin high when the King was present.

"What have you done this time?" the King asked.

Gian was too excited for Colter's liking as he immediately quipped, "I told you, Your Highness, Colter planned to wreak havoc on our poor, hard-working Ecanus' again."

Trust Gian to be the biggest stool pigeon.

"Silence." King Malik turned to Gian. "You should learn how to hold your tongue when not spoken to, boy."

Gian bowed his head in apology. Colter tried not to let out even the tiniest of smirks. It would certainly not help his case right now.

"What have you done this time?" King Malik repeated.

Colter forcefully met the King's eyes and replied. "I am deeply sorry. It was not my intention to start a fire nor was it my intention to get someone hurt." It was one of the things he learned from his father: that in order to earn someone's respect and be heard, you must be accountable for all your actions, whether it be good or bad. Most especially, when it is bad. "I just wanted to exercise the power that you, Your Highness, has graciously bestowed me. Do believe me when I say that it was all an accident."

And it was true. Colter meant every word. He was still in the process of learning what he could do and testing his limits. But being a Pyropath is both a blessing and a curse.

King Malik scoffed. "If you wanted to 'exercise your power,' as you say, you wouldn't endanger the lives of the Ecanus. If you are truly to be crowned as an heir, you would not even dare and foolishly prance around with your little fireballs."

He did not notice that his father's tirade has drawn the attention of the few Ecanus in the vicinity. Great, Colter thought. What an amazing way of letting everyone know that it was the heir-apparent that nearly set the nearby village on fire. Gian on the other hand, was hiding his glee with a straight face. A poor one at that, since his eyes were dancing with joy.

"Do not make me regret giving you that talent, Colter." King Malik said. "How hard could it possibly be to keep your head down and obey the rules?"

Colter knew that if it were not for the little audience, the King could have outright said that why can't Colter be more like his brother.

It was a little too much for Colter as he can feel the tingling in his hands start to spread through his palms. He tightened his grip even more and focused on breathing. It was one of the curses this ability gives: a short temper.

"I do apologize, Your Highness. It would not happen again." Colter then toward the Ecanus watching. "I greatly appreciate your help this afternoon. The entire people of Ecanus are indebted to the valor you have showed in keeping the village safe. Please do know that I am deeply sorry for what happened and that it was not my attention to cause panic nor harm."

Colter made sure to meet every single eye and he was relieved to see that they believed him. There was also something there that made Colter felt uneasy: pity.

He quickly gave a bow toward the people of Howard and gave another bow to the King. He did not dare meet his brother's eyes or he would lose his cool and cause another scene. "Please excuse me."

With that, he left the forest with the weight of everyone's stares.

As he was walking back towards the palace, he could not resist not throwing off a little steam. And that meant literally. He let the reigns on his control loosen a bit and felt the tingling sensation on his hand slowly dissipate but still linger. In return, he felt his wisps of white smoke rise off from his clothes.

It wasn't enough. He had to release it at some point or else it would be bad for either him or the people around him.

He quickly pivoted and instead of walking towards the palace doors, he went to the archway that led to the path towards the gardens. There was a pond there where he could let off steam and could not harm anybody or anything.

When he reached the pond, he checked if there was anyone around him and when he was sure that the coast was clear, he snapped his fingers and a ball of flame appeared in hands.

"Colter?"

He quickly absorbed the fireball by closing his fists around it and turned around to find his mother, Queen Regina, casually holding a watering can. Colter looked over her shoulders and saw two ladies-in-waiting at a respectable distance from them. "Hello, mother."

Queen Regina Howard, the gentlest person Colter has ever known. She was the only person that Colter trusted around the Palace or this realm for that matter.

"What is the matter, my boy?" Queen Regina carefully placed the watering can at her feet and held Colter's hand. He didn't know if it was mother's instincts that made her ask that question or it was still evident on his face the anger and shame he felt in the woods.

Colter shook his head and said, "Nothing's wrong, mother." Unlike the King, Queen Regina allows her sons to call her 'mother' even in private and personal engagements such as these.

Queen Regina cradled her youngest son's face and met his eyes that are identical to hers. She knew what was bothering Colter but had to ask in order for him to open up to her just like old times. King Malik might be too hard on their sons sometimes and she could not bear to see her youngest child, suffering from Malik's discipline. She is a firm believer that Malik was just doing his job in preparing them to become heir-apparent for the future of Howard. "Whatever happened, I know he did not mean them. Your father might just be worried about you."

Colter knew that his mother was doing her best to comfort him but it breaks his heart that he can no longer believe what she says about his father. Although he appreciates the words of encouragement from the Queen.

It was a little too late for that.

He gave her a rueful smile and enveloped her in an embrace. "I hope, His Highness can also see me the way you do."

Colter

Vikalyn, Kingdom of Howard

Colter was being watched.

There was something about what his brother mentioned yesterday that dawned on him.

"Colter, haven't you learned by now that I always have eyes and ears on everything? The moment you stepped out of the palace doors, I already knew where you're going."

That bastard, he thought. Gian seems to get off on Colter's mishaps. Ever since he got back from the forest yesterday, Colter could not shake the feeling that unseen eyes seemed to follow him wherever he went.

He was in the forest once again, but this time he was in Vikalyn, a lush, green forest located in the eastern part of the Kingdom. After accidentally running into The Queen in the gardens, he locked himself in his room and spent the night reading books about the unexplored areas in the Kingdom. He had made it a hobby to research on those uncharted regions and mark them on an old map he found in the Palace's grand library. Colter found it strange that his father, a stickler, had not ensured the Kingdom's jurisdiction and had it recorded.

Vikalyn was one of those hidden gems and he sought to explore it as soon as dawn broke.

The trek to Vikalyn was treacherous. Colter now understood why this place had never been visited before. The path was unclear. It wasn't even a path to begin with. There were brambles and fallen branches strewn across the forest floor.

Colter was relieved that he didn't take Nimrod with him, his trusty steed, or else he would be dealing with a temperamental companion. Julian certainly did not need that right now.

After hours of removing the obstruction on the way, Colter reached a small clearing. The trees around him were thick and they towered over his head, leaving only small gaps between the leaves and branches to let the light shine through. He had no way of tracking the time he spent walking into the wilderness, but it seemed like darkness had fallen.

The stillness around him made him wary. Ever since he plunged deeper into the woodlands, the temperature has dropped and the nagging feeling of being watched is there.

Colter thought that it was risky for him to be out here, vulnerable in the open. He didn't know what creatures lie within the shadows and all the other dangers of Vikalyn. It was untouched for a reason after all.

There were trunks scattered throughout the clearing. He examined the one closest to him and determined that it had fallen for quite some time. He lightly placed a finger on the bark and as soon as he touched it, a portion crumbled on his feet.

It was not safe to put some weight on it, therefore he went around to look at the other trunks and found one not so far away from the tiny ray of light that helped me see in the dim surroundings.

As soon as he sat down, he retired his satchel and scabbard onto the forest floor. He took out his canteen and drank the cool water within as a thought occurred to him.

If this part of the Kingdom was not known to Ecanus as it was not part of the published map of the Kingdom of Howard, then therefore, he could make this discovery his own. Colter finally found a place where he could be alone with his thoughts. He can be free from the pressure of the King's presence and the public.

Colter suddenly felt a lightness in his chest. It's been a long time since he felt this way. He tried racking his brain for a similar feeling during his childhood, but the closest he could remember was when the King was away for a trip to a distant realm. The entire Kingdom was under the reign of the Queen for some time. Colter would spend days with his mother, trying to learn under her tutelage.

That memory brought inspiration to him. He could be free. Even for a while.

He snapped his finger and a small fireball appeared in his hands. He willed the fireball to grow bigger. Conjuring fire has never been difficult for Colter. Controlling it howver, was a different story.

Although, his tutors at the Palace would often tell him stories about the few Fotiá-Ecanus, Pyropaths, having a hard time harnessing the talent. But for Colter, it comes as easy as breathing air.

Fire is a powerful element. It can destroy or give life. Colter was always reminded how important it was for him to control his power. However, for some reasons he could not explain, the training given to him had always left him feeling drained and not exactly empowered.

With the new-found energy to master his ability, he threw the fireball on a fallen tree trunk across him. It immediately caught fire and suddenly, light flooded the entire clearing.

Colter smiled. He felt the rush of power. It was intoxicating. He pointed toward the burning tree trunk and commanded the fire to burn brighter. There was tingling in his hands but it was relaxing, kind, warm and inviting, just like the fire he created.

He could get used to this kind of isolation.

---

Little did Colter know that Gian had followed him into Vikalyn and was watching him from the shadows all this time. As soon as Colter left at dawn, he went after him. It was true what Gian said yesterday. He knew it when Colter would leave the Palace and where he would go. It was all thanks to the whispers of the trees and grass. This is how Gian would know all the things going on in the Kingdom.

He knew that his brother was up to no good and it was his mission to prove to the King that Colter did not deserve the talent he received. Undoubtedly, the King had a good reason why he gave Gian such a passive talent, being a Geopath. But he could not help feeling useless compared to his brother.

Fire symbolizes eternity. Its power is revered all across Howard. Only a few select Ecanus was given the gift and Gian could not fathom as to why his brother was given such a gift when he was the first-born.

Colter was weak. He lacked the qualities of being a strong leader, something that they both need to uphold in order to continue their father's legacy. And besides, Gian trained under the best tutors in the Kingdom. He was the first to be introduced to the entire Ecanus as the heir-apparent. He deserved to be a Pyropath.

Seeing the smile on Colter's face as he did his little fire show, made Gian's jealousy burned even more. He was consumed with hatred towards his brother.

That should have been mine, he thought to himself as he walked towards the light. One of these days, I'll find a way to take you down.

---

Colter felt a presence behind him. Without thinking twice, his hands tingled and a ball of fire appeared. He quickly stood up and turned around. He was surprised and at the same time alarmed to see Gian, of all people, walking towards him in a leisurely gait. His good-for-nothing brother had no other thing to do but tail him and purposely make his life more miserable than it already is. He did not understand why Gian was so obsessed with catching him making mistakes and running to their father like a petty schoolboy.

He dissipated his fireball but did not let his guard down. With Gian around, he had this constant need to be cautious. Nothing good ever comes out with his brother.

"Why are you here?" Colter asked as he sat back down on the trunk and gathered all his things to prepare for the trip back to the Palace.

"Stand up," Gian snarled as he drew his sword and pointed it towards Colter's back.

The sound of the steel sword being drawn, caused the hairs on Colter's back to rise. Is this what Gian was planning all along? To shadow him and get a chance to kill him?

"What are you doing here, Gian?" Colter's voice remained calm but in his mind, his brother was acting stranger than usual.

"I said stand up!" Gian roared. "Don't make me repeat myself."

Ever since he got here, the stillness that surrounded the forest was now replaced with life. It was as if the forest was openly watching them and waiting with bated breath. All that can be heard now was Gian's ragged breath and the warm crackling fire he made.

Colter had always encountered stand-offs with Gian but this time it felt different. His heart was beating so hard and fast that he could feel it in his throat. Various near-death experiences were all bland compared to this.

He was now thinking of ways on how to escape. Flying would not be a plausible solution since Gian could easily manipulate the branches to drag him back down. And the fact that Gian could fly too, he could easily catch up to Colter.

Perhaps, he could outsmart Gian. Colter knew that he was no match for Gian when it came to swordfighting. Gian had been training even longer than him and Colter always found excuses not to attend his sword lessons.

Colter took a deep breath and stood back up. He turned around to find Gian's sword just inches from his chin. "What is this all about?"

Gian's eyes flashed with anger, something Colter could not comprehend. Why was he mad at him?

"Pick up your sword and let's have a duel."

Colter was slightly taken a back but he did not dare let it show. "I have no time for you or your games, Gian."

"You wouldn't want to disappoint King Malik now, would you?" Gian sneered. "A prince never backs down from a challenge, Colter. Or have you forgotten what father said about us having to prove ourselves to become the rightful heir to the throne?"

As annoying and holier-than-thou his brother was, he was right. Colter could remember that day as if it was yesterday. The King had always drilled into their young minds that the most effective way to prove your claim to the throne was with a duel. Although, he was confused as to why Gian was so adamant about proving that he was stronger than Colter. Colter's chances of ascent to kingship were slim to none.

"You know," Colter bent down and picked up his scabbard. He clasped it on his sword belt and drew his sword. " This would be a waste of both our times."

Gian smiled eerily. "No worries, brother. I've got all the time in the world."

Colter knew he was at a disadvantage. Gian played dirty at swordfights and he actually wanted to win this one time in order to shut him up.

His brother's smile widened as Colter took a step back and raised his sword in front of him, taking in the dueling stance. Since no one was around to stop them when things took the wrong turn, Colter was prepared for the worst.

"Yes, be a good boy for once and show me what you're capable of." Gian said as he lunged forward, hunger evident in his silver eyes.

Colter parried Gian's sword with enough force just in time. If he had been a second slower, Gian could have gotten a decent cut out of him.

"Running a bit slow, aren't we?"

That remark irked Colter more, so he dashed forward and did a wide swing. Gian effortlessly side-steps him and elbowed Colter's back as he misses that shot.

Colter hissed at his misstep. He was really pissed off now. He straightened up and recovered his bearing. He faced his brother once more and advanced to attack.

It seemed that Gian knew his next move as he deflected the blade in the correct direction and counter-attacked with a slice. Colter leaped back and returned to feign an attack, but Gian was quick on his feet to pivot and let Colter stumble forward on the forest floor.

"Come on now, little brother. Even a servant has better skills than you." Gian circled Colter, who was still catching his breath on the ground.

Gian kicked Colter on his side causing him to roll and lie flat on his back. Colter was sweating profusely now and it wasn't because of the tussle. It was because of the steam ensuing from his body. He knew that Gian was savoring this moment. He always liked it when Colter was down on the ground and helpless.

He was getting nowhere with Gian and that made him even more mad. He stood up and once again, sword raised, and charged at his brother.

Before he could take another step, Colter felt roots slink their way up to his ankles and legs, preventing him from moving. This is what he meant by Gian playing dirty.

"What's the matter? You need a little help with that?" Gian taunted.

Colter slashed the roots with his sword but more took over the place. He met Gian's eyes and the malice was as pure as the moonlight.

If he wanted to play with fire, Gian could have just said so.

Colter snarled and snapped his fingers. Gian, who seemed to have thought about this in advance, proceeded to direct the roots higher and clasped both of his wrists. His sword clanked to the ground as he struggled to break free.

Gian tutted him. "Now, now. We wouldn't want to cause another forest fire. There may be no one nearby, but these trees are over a thousand years old. You wouldn't want to raze our father's Kingdom to the ground." Gian moved closer to Colter and whispererd. "That would put the cherry on top of your chance of becoming the King."

The roots were slowly climbing up his legs and arms, anchoring him to the ground.

"Why don't you just end it, right here and right now?" Colter panted. He had trouble seeing as the wisps of steam thickened.

"And end my entertainment just like that?" Gian smiled. "I don't think so."

"Free me from these and fight like a real man." Colter growled.

"What makes you think that you are worthy of being a real man? You're just a boy and a lousy one at that." Gian circled him like hawk, spewing insults at him.

Colter had just about enough of it. He let the tingle travel throughout his body and channeled all of his anger and directed the fire in him to his arms and legs, which caused the roots to disintegrate into ashes. It made Gian leap backward and hoist his sword at chest level.

Gian was in shock at the sight of his brother on fire. He was in complete awe and at the same time envious of the marvelous power of a Pyropath.

"You want to play with fire? You're going to get it." Colter said in a low voice. He fashioned a sword out of fire and rushed his brother.

Colter felt the adrenaline and power coursing through his blood. His renewed energy gave him a massive boost. He slashed and sliced at Gian and all his brother could do was dodge and parry his attacks away.

For the first time, Colter saw fear in Gian's eyes. Fear, astonishment and resentment. All those emotions mixed together were not a good combination as Gian's defense was weakening. His dodges and counter-attacked were getting slower. This, in return, made Colter dance around his brother's moves like a maniac. He was all for the offensive now.

Gian made a fatal mistake of deflecting an attack too early that caused him a blow to his chest by Colter's flaming false edge.

He fell over, sweating and panting hard. The front of his waistcoat was signed but it did not burn through the material.

Colter loomed over Gian, his grip tightening on his fiery sword. Gian looked like a mess, another first for him. He made a move to strike down but a voice stopped him.

"That's enough."

King Malik's sharp voice cut through the glade. Both boys looked up, expecting to see the King. However, it was just an apparition.

"Both of you, head back to the Palace now." King Malik said sternly and his projection had disappeared as quickly as it manifested.

Colter redirected the flames away from his body and contained them in an orange orb. He absorbed it and felt the familiar tingle fade into a hum in his hands.

He reached out his hand to help his brother up but Gian nudged it away and stood up indignantly on his own. Without looking at Colter, he turned around and took flight.

Colter was left alone in the clearing once again with even more things to think about.