Dragon Fire & Wolf Blood

Chapter 12

Abellona was a witch and had set up a conference where they would be able to see one another. She needed to talk the idea over with Alexander before giving out any announcements. Her people were very concerned regarding the fact he hadn’t been there yet. Not many people knew about the curse. They did know Ember couldn’t feel it strongly. They had to give them some information without causing vulnerabilities. Abellona was busy mixing herbs and other ingredients into a large bowl. The liquid swirling is it boiled. Stopping the stirring, she waited for the liquid to settle.

As the liquid came to a stop, Abellona called for Ember. Excitement brimming in her eyes. In the liquid, a picture began to form. Looking at them was Alexander. Ember couldn’t help but feel some excitement. Alexander was dangerously handsome. He was kind and gracious. All the qualities she appreciated. The smile that graced her was warm and welcoming.

“Hello Alexander.”

“I missed you, Ember.” Alexander had a pain in his eyes.

“I have missed you too. We may have come up with an idea.” She looked over to Abellona for support.

Abellona told him what their idea was. As she spoke, the pain in his eyes faded to hope. He quickly agreed that it would be a great start. From there, they went further into detail. Planning what day they would leave on the day they would get back. Ember was sad she wouldn’t be able to accompany them.

They were deep into conversation when Alexander’s features changed to those of pain. He quickly began to lose control. Ember’s eyes filled with tears as she saw the pain he was experiencing. Even though they were nowhere near one another, the curse was still afflicting him. Sensing her presence. Addaste and King Ryder quickly took Alexander down. That was the last image Ember had before Abellona cut the connection.

“I am so sorry you are going through this Ember. I can’t imagine how painful it has been.”

Without a word, Ember left for her room. Sadness and depression struck at her heart. Why did it have to be them? Was her life not hard enough? Hatred for the witch boiled in her soul. They had done nothing to her. Alexander had been a casualty of an unspoken obsession for power.

At first, Ember didn’t want him as her mate. It was all too complicated. She wanted a mate, but not that came with this many trials so soon into things. In a way, she was thankful. She was getting to know Alexander before they fully mated. As the days moved on, she could slowly feel the mate bond creeping in and singing to her heart.

Dante and Vatra had sat with her for many hours, having long conversations about her situation. They both swore it would all be worth it in the end. Having watched from the outside looking in, she did envy their relationship. It was everything she hoped for. Why would their Goddess curse them so?

Knowing Alexander was willing to set aside his kingdom for her both thrilled her and scared her. What if one day he realized he never wanted to give up? What if he felt obligated? There were so many unspoken questions amongst them.

After sitting alone for many hours, a knock came at her door. Abellona came walking into the room. Concern filling her eyes. She has always been able to see through Ember’s facades. One of the reasons they were so close. She knew when Ember was hurting.

“Talk to me love.” The look in her eyes told Ember she wasn’t going to buy any bull.

“I’m just confused.” Giving an exasperated sigh.

Abellona sat with her back leaded up against the headboard. Opening her arms wide, Ember crawled into them. Laying her head on Abellona’s chest. Cuddling close to her. Since they had grown close, this was something Abellona had done for her. There was a therapeutic effect to it. It was comforting to Ember. She had never had anyone who held her close like this.

Dante was very hard on her but also loving in raising her, but nothing will ever replace a mother’s love. He equipped her with what she needed to survive. In raising his own children, he struggled with things. Each child is different and has their own personality.

“Tell me your world.” Abellona spoke into the room.

“Why is Alexander so willing to give up his title for me? I am nothing special. I maybe queen, but that is merely a title. I stepped up when someone was needed. That was it. He is willing to give up everything he has grown up knowing, to be with me. He could have taken the easy way out when that witch cursed him. Instead, he fought harder for us. I know wolves have a strong connection to the bond, but this is too much.” Ember was slowly tearing up. Her sniffles could be heard as she fought to keep herself put together.

“He can’t feel the bond right now. Maybe this was meant to happen so you could learn what love is without the bond guiding it. You need to know how real this is.”

Abellona has always been very knowledgeable. She is wise beyond her earthly years. As usual, there was truth within her world. It was unnerving how often she felt like a toddler running through the world. There Abellona was holding her hand. She never took advantage of Ember’s weaknesses. It just gave her the wisdom and strength she needed.

“You second guess yourself. Listen to his actions if you are scared of his words.”

Ember couldn’t help but smile. Abellona knew her heart. She was second guessing everything, but the evidence of his intentions were in his actions. It could kill him to be close to her for too long, yet he was fighting to remain by her side.

“You are so wise.” Ember hugged Abellona deeper.

“Always for you love.” She could hear the love in her voice. “Now, we shall get up and get prepared for your King’s arrival.”

Ember sat up and quickly vacated the room. There was a lot to prepare and only two weeks to do so.