Chapter 13 – Fallen and Found

Divine Desires

Kate’s POV

The rising sun’s warmth woke me gently, a surprising change from my usual mornings. A strange anticipation replaced my typical grogginess, leaving me buzzing with energy. It seemed the tumultuous past few days had aligned my inner rhythms with the natural world.

Yesterday’s events replayed in my mind as I lay with eyes closed. Cyrus’s presence had put me on edge the whole day, his aloofness only adding to my frustration. Experiencing his skills firsthand, I saw him less as a protector and more as a potential threat. His strength, once comforting, now felt oppressive. He was still a handsome devil, but my rose-tinted glasses were definitely off.

But last night’s training changed everything. Unleashing the destructive potential of my attack powers threw both Cyrus and Marcus across the room like ragdolls and shifted the power dynamic between us. For the first time since my powers emerged, I felt a sense of control, a mix of exhilaration and fear at the realization that I could protect myself.

Marcus’s excitement about my potential for their organization was expected, yet unsettling. To him, I was a golden ticket, a powerful weapon that could turn the tide in their favor. It was like handing machine guns and modern medicine to medieval knights, a game-changer in their endless battles. While I understood his perspective, his words left a bitter taste in my mouth.

I closed my eyes, dissecting the emotions of that moment. It wasn’t the calm focus of healing nor the warmth of the barrier. This was primal, a burning need to protect myself, to fight back against threats. A visceral reaction to the feeling of being pushed too far and a raw yearning to assert my own power.

“Desire,” I whispered to my reflection in the mirror on the dresser, the word echoing in the quiet room. “That’s what it was.”

The realization sent a shiver down my spine. Desire, in all its forms, seemed to be the key to unlocking this new level of power. Healing Dan, Cyrus, and Marcus stemmed from a deep desire to alleviate their pain. The barrier first materialized from a yearning for Cyrus’s embrace, his protection and warmth. And that devastating blast of energy? Pure, unadulterated desire to fight back, to assert my power in the face of danger and betrayal. Who knew being pissed off could be so productive?

A thrill of excitement ran through me. If desire fueled my power, then my potential was boundless. The realization was both exhilarating and daunting, a Pandora’s Box of possibilities.

I moved to the center of the room, closing my eyes and recalling the surge of power and confidence from last night. Pushing aside thoughts of longing and romance, I searched for the feeling of the raw, primal essence of desire. A hunger for success, a fierce need for self-preservation, a yearning to understand my own strength.

At first, it was a struggle. The conflicting energies within me, the push and pull of attack and barrier magic, created a maelstrom of power. But I persisted, channeling the feeling of empowerment, the adrenaline rush of unleashed magic. Slowly, the chaos subsided, the energies yielding to my will. Apparently, my magic responds better to “calm determination” than “flailing panic.” Who knew?

I reached out in my mind, shaping the familiar barrier. But this time, it was infused with a dark intensity, the air crackling with an almost visible force. It was as if the barrier was not merely a shield, but a weapon, ready to lash out at any threat.

Larger and stronger than any before, it pulsed with raw power. The intensity surprised me, a physical echo of my emotional turmoil.

I experimented, expanding and contracting the barrier, feeling the energy respond to my will. It was exhilarating, a symphony of power. But as I pushed the limits, I realized something else. I wasn’t exhausted. Unlike my previous attempts, which had left me drained and weak, this time, I felt invigorated, energized by the raw emotions I had channeled. Who needs coffee when you’ve got rage and a thirst for vengeance?

As I stood there, the question of staying or leaving nagged at me. Marcus and Cyrus offered resources and training, a tempting prospect for a power-hungry newbie like myself. But the thought of being used as a weapon? Not exactly my dream career path. This might be my best chance to escape, their ignorance of my discovery offering an advantage.

But I also knew I was completely unprepared for the dangers outside, like a baby bird kicked out of the nest before its first flying lesson. Running seemed foolish when I had so much to learn.

I decided. I would stay – for now. I would milk this opportunity for all it was worth, absorbing everything I could from Marcus and Cyrus over the next few days like a magical sponge. Then, I’d make my final decision. I would be ready, whether that meant continuing this bizarre apprenticeship or facing the unknown on my own terms.

I glanced at the clock, realizing I had spent more time than I intended on the barrier exercise. Time flies when you’re having a magical existential crisis, I guess. The sun was already peeking over the horizon, casting long shadows across the room. I quickly changed into my workout clothes, eager to test my newfound understanding of my powers in a more physical setting.

As I stepped outside, the cool morning air greeted me like a refreshing splash of water. The garden was bathed in the soft light of dawn, the flowers glistening with dew. I began my warm-up routine, stretching my muscles and preparing for the day’s training.

Marcus and Cyrus joined me a few minutes later, both looking surprised to see me up and about so early.

“Good morning, Kate,” Marcus greeted, a hint of surprise in his voice. “You’re up early. Couldn’t sleep?”

“Just wanted to get an early start,” I replied, keeping my tone casual.

Cyrus raised an eyebrow, his gaze lingering on me for a moment. “Feeling better?”

Yeah, just peachy, thanks for asking. Not. I nodded, meeting his eyes briefly before turning away. “Much better, thanks.”

I crossed my arms and stared at the floor, making it clear I had no intention of engaging in conversation. I could feel Cyrus’s eyes on me as we went through our warm-up exercises, but I avoided his gaze, focusing on my movements.

The garden transformed into a battleground of unspoken emotions as we moved into combat training. Cyrus’s attempts to bridge the gap with small talk fell flat, my curt responses fueling his visible frustration.

Our sparring intensified, every step and strike a calculated dance. “Kate, remember to use your core strength,” Marcus instructed. “Don’t just rely on your arms.” Easy for you to say, Mr. Muscles. Cyrus advanced with a series of quick jabs, testing my defenses. “Maintain your guard and watch for openings,” Marcus coached from the sidelines.

When Cyrus feigned a retreat, I sensed a trap. Instead of falling for his ruse, I gathered my energy. I felt a surge of anger, a flash of the same raw power I had experienced the night before. As he turned back to strike, I channeled that anger into a blast of energy, sending Cyrus flying backward. He landed hard on the ground, a look of shock and pain on his face.

“What the hell, Kate?” he exclaimed, scrambling to his feet.

“Try that again,” I challenged, my voice dripping with venom. I dare you – seriously.

Marcus stepped in, his presence a silent command that cut through the tension, his eyes narrowed as he assessed the situation. “Enough,” he said, leaving no room for discussion. “Both of you, cool down.”

He turned to me, his gaze unwavering. “Kate, we’ll talk later.” Then, to Cyrus, “Come with me.”

They disappeared into the house, leaving me alone in the garden with my swirling thoughts. I sank to the ground, the cool grass a stark contrast to the heat that still lingered in my veins.

I had let my anger get the better of me, and now I had to face the consequences. But as I sat there, the morning sun warming my skin, I also felt a sense of liberation. In that raw outburst, I had finally found my voice and stood up for myself, even if it roared with destruction.

After what felt like an eternity, Cyrus and Marcus emerged from the house. Marcus’s expression was stern, but there was a hint of understanding in his eyes. Cyrus, on the other hand, looked like a scolded puppy, his shoulders slumped and his gaze fixed on the ground.

“I’ve spoken to Cyrus,” Marcus began, his voice calm but firm. “And we both agree that this situation cannot continue. We’re all on the same side here, and infighting will only weaken us.”

He paused, letting his words sink in. “I don’t know what’s going on between you two, but you need to work it out. We’re in a dangerous situation, and we can’t afford to be distracted by personal conflicts.”

Cyrus finally looked up, his eyes meeting mine for a brief moment before he quickly looked away. “Kate, I…” he started, but his voice trailed off.

I took a deep breath, trying to quell the anger that still simmered within me. “I’m sorry,” I said, my voice barely above a whisper. “I shouldn’t have lashed out like that.”

Marcus nodded, a hint of approval in his eyes. “Good. Now, I think you both need a break from training. How about a little field trip?”

Cyrus and I exchanged a wary glance, unsure of what he had in mind.

“I have a friend who works at Corvin Castle,” Marcus explained. “He’s agreed to give us a private morning tour before it opens to the public. It might be a good way to clear your heads and get some fresh air.” He’s probably planning to lock us in the dungeon if we don’t behave.

I hesitated, still feeling the tension between Cyrus and me. But the idea of exploring the medieval castle was too tempting to resist. “Okay,” I agreed, a small smile tugging at my lips. “That sounds like fun.”

We grabbed breakfast from the bakery while walking to the castle. As we approached the castle, its imposing silhouette against the morning sky took my breath away. The towering walls, the intricate stonework, the sheer scale of it all—it was a testament to human ingenuity and a window into a bygone era. I bet their heating bill is a nightmare.

Marcus’s friend, a jovial man named Radu, met us at the gate. He led us through the castle’s labyrinthine corridors, his voice echoing off the stone walls as he regaled us with tales of knights, battles, and royal intrigue.

As we wandered through the grand halls and chambers, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. The castle was a treasure trove of history, each room whispering secrets of the past. But even amidst the grandeur, the tension between Cyrus and me remained, a silent undercurrent that threatened to disrupt the fragile peace.

We entered the Knight’s Hall, a vast chamber with soaring ceilings and stained-glass windows that cast colorful patterns on the stone floor. As I admired the intricate details of the armor on display, I noticed a figure slumped in a window nook.

Intrigued, I approached for a closer look. The figure was curled up on a cushioned bench, fast asleep. As I got closer, I could see that he was young, probably in his mid-twenties, with a lean, athletic build.

He was strikingly handsome, even in slumber. His blonde hair fell across his forehead, and his lips were slightly parted. Curiosity got the better of me, and I approached cautiously.

“Are you ok?” I called softly, hoping not to startle him.

He stirred, his eyes fluttering open, a startling shade of emerald green. For a moment, he seemed disoriented, blinking in the sunlight streaming through the window. Then, his gaze focused on me, and a wide grin spread across his face.

“Well, hello there,” he said, his voice raspy with sleep. “Aren’t you a sight for sore eyes?”

Before I could respond, he grabbed my arm and pulled me towards him, his lips crashing onto mine in a surprisingly passionate kiss. The unexpectedness of it stole my breath, a gasp escaping as his hand cupped the back of my neck, tilting my head for deeper access. For a fleeting moment, I was lost in the sensation of his lips moving against mine, firm yet tender, the warmth of his body a comforting pressure against my own. His lips tasted sweet with a hint of something darker, like honeyed wine with a dash of spice, and his touch sent a jolt of electricity through me.

But then, reality came crashing back, and I pushed him away, my heart pounding in my chest. “What the hell?” I exclaimed, wiping my mouth with the back of my hand, the taste of honey lingering on my lips.

A smirk played at the corner of his lips, amusement and mischief dancing in his eyes. He slowly licked his lips, savoring the lingering taste of me. “Wow, feisty,” he purred, leaning closer. “I like that.”

At that moment, Cyrus appeared, his face a mask of fury. He grabbed the guy by the collar and pulled him away from me, his voice low and menacing. “What do you think you’re doing?”

The guy grinned mischievously, unbothered by Cyrus’s anger. “Sorry, mate. I must have mistaken her for an Iele. You know how it is after a long night.”

I couldn’t help but stare at the stranger, a mix of confusion and annoyance swirling within me. “A what?” I asked, my voice sharp. “What’s an Iele?”

Cyrus’s grip tightened on the stranger’s collar. “Iele are the local version of Nymphs. Also, he’s clearly a Fae. And he’s lying.”

The stranger chuckled, seemingly unfazed by Cyrus’s aggression. “Now, now, is that any way to treat a guest? Besides, I’m not lying. I’m just a bit… disoriented. A long night of revelry with the Iele will do that to you.”

Cyrus’s eyes narrowed. “What’s a Fae doing in Romania?”

The stranger shrugged, his gaze never leaving me. “Just passing through. Heard there was a party happening, thought I’d check it out.”

Cyrus scoffed. “The Iele don’t throw parties.”

The stranger’s grin widened. “Oh, but they do, my friend. You just have to know where to look.” He turned back to me, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “You may call me Liam, by the way. And you are?”

Cyrus tensed, his grip tightening on Liam’s collar. “Don’t tell him your name,” he warned me, his voice low and urgent.

But it was too late. “Kate,” I replied, my curiosity piqued.

Liam’s smile broadened. “Kate,” he repeated, savoring the sound of my name. “A lovely name for a lovely lady.”

He reached out, his fingers brushing against my cheek. A shiver ran down my spine, a strange warmth spreading through me at his touch.

“You’re even more beautiful up close,” he murmured, his voice a low purr.

A menacing aura surrounded Cyrus as he pulled Liam away from me, his voice sharp as a blade. “Get your hands off her,” he hissed.

Liam chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “My apologies,” he said, bowing slightly. “I couldn’t resist.”

He turned back to me, his voice a seductive whisper. “So, Kate, what brings you to this dreary old castle?”

I hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. “I’m here with… my friends,” I said, gesturing towards them. “We’re… exploring.”

Liam’s grin widened. “Exploring, eh? Well, you’ve come to the right place. This castle is full of secrets, hidden passages, forgotten chambers… It’s a perfect playground for Fae.”

Cyrus scoffed. “You’re a long way from home.”

Liam shrugged, his nonchalant demeanor unwavering. “A Fae goes where the fun is, my friend. And I must say, I’m quite enjoying myself here.”

He winked at me, and I felt a strange pull towards him, a curiosity that mingled with a hint of danger.

Cyrus stepped forward, his hand on his sword hilt. “We’re leaving,” he said, his voice cold and sharp. “Now.”

Liam raised an eyebrow, his amusement turning to annoyance. “Oh, come now. Don’t be a spoilsport. Kate and I were just getting acquainted.”

He turned to me, his voice a honeyed purr. “Wouldn’t you rather stay and explore with me, Kate? I can show you things you’ve never even dreamed of.”

His words were like a siren song, luring me in with promises of adventure and excitement. I hesitated, torn between the safety of Cyrus’s presence and the allure of the unknown.

Cyrus’s grip tightened on my arm. “Don’t listen to him, Kate. He’s trying to manipulate you.”

Liam chuckled, his eyes flashing with a hint of malice. “Am I now? Or am I simply offering a more… enticing alternative?”

He extended a hand towards me, his fingers glowing with a faint, ethereal light. “Come with me, Kate. Let me show you the true magic of this world.”

I felt a strange warmth spread through me, a sense of euphoria that clouded my judgment. I took a step towards Liam, drawn in by his seductive aura.

But then, Cyrus’s voice cut through the haze, his words sharp and urgent. “Kate, don’t!”

He pulled me back, breaking the spell that Liam had woven around me. I stumbled, my head clearing as the warmth faded.

“What was that?” I asked, my voice trembling.

Cyrus’s eyes were filled with anger and concern. “He was trying to use his Fae magic on you. They’re masters of manipulation, Kate. You can’t trust anything he says.”

Liam shrugged, his smile returning. “Just a little fun, my friend. No harm done.”

Cyrus glared at him, his hand still gripping my arm. “We’re leaving,” he said, his voice final.

But Liam stepped in front of us, blocking our path. “I don’t think so,” he said, his voice taking on a harder edge. “Kate can choose for herself who she wants to spend her time with.”

He turned to me, his eyes sparkling with challenge. “Well, Kate? Who will it be? The brooding demon hunter or the charming Fae prince?”