Rebecca Rainey

Brandon Johnston

The Avatar’s of the Greeks

The practitioner wars

Rebecca get up yelled Mom. I wanted to just keep ignoring my blaring alarm and my mom but I couldn’t after all today was the start of our trials to find out what one of the gods would bless us with their powers I couldn’t refuse to start the trials or I would seize to be a practice and being that my mom was the leader of the witch council and the chosen representives of Hecate that was not an option.

Hurry up Rebecca you are going to be late yelled mom.

I hurried out of bed and quickly changed my clothes then brushed my teeth and meet my mom down stairs.

There you are I was getting ready to work some magic, My moms eyes glowed purplish blue briefly and her hands sparked with magic purple and blue smoke then she let the magic fade.

I am sorry mom I was just tired you know we have been training non stop for this I stated.

I know honey but it is important you need to be chosen by one of the Greek gods in these trials otherwise the other gods will move in and you will have to go with them to up hold the peace treaty.

I know mom that’s part of why I can’t shake the feeling of butter flies from my stomach if I don’t get chosen by one of the Greeks I won’t be a Greek witch which means I will never see you again.

I promise you even if that where to happen we would find a way to handle it but do not fret you are going to do fine after all you have master every spell you have ever been shown and to top it off you are bright intelligent and beautiful you have a chance to catch the eyes of many of the men or Athena.

That’s true I guess.

Of course, it is but come on we need to get going your trial today is Poseidon’s trial so we are heading to the ocean to go kayaking said mom.

I was thrilled I loved the water. Sound good I stated. We made our way into the car and mom had already loaded a kayak in the back. Mom you know they had ones there.

I know however I wanted you to have your best shot and winning and I feel your best shot at winning is with something your familiar with.

Her logic made sense. Thanks mom

Of course.

We continued driving until we got to the beach where the tournament was supposed to start. I took a deep breath when I saw how many people I was competing against.

Relax this is something you are good at and besides that the trial’s may be named after the gods but none of the gods pick based on one trial they all wait till the contestants have completed each trial then decide you got this.

I hugged my mom. Thank you I will make you proud. I know you will now go. I nodded and then cast a spell and teleported my kayak into one of the open starting points for contestants.

I made my way over to it and began prepping my gear. Several other contestants arrived and began prepping there gear as well and then a flash of yellow light formed into a man with bright golden eyes and tan skin.

You all know why you are here it is time for the gods to take their pick of the magic practitioners of your era, todays rules are simple you are going to capture three flags and bring them back the first to capture all three of there flags and make it back will win however there is a catch sea creatures will try to stop you as well the other contestants you may use whatever spell’s you feel are useful to you for this situation however there is one rule do not kill the other contestants to do so will earn you a one way trip to visit hades.

Apollo summoned his bow for dramatic effect. However, I am here to heal any contestants should they get seriously injured as every form of fighting magic from fire to lighting is allowed.

Let the games begin! Apollos voice boomed over the beach loud and amplified in such a way that everyone covered there ears except me the games begin was the equivalent of the countdown so I shot off while everyone was recovering several contestants realized there mistake and took off shortly after me but I had gained a serious advantage.

The water began to push back in a rapid pace my orange kayak was being pushed backwards as where the kayaks of several of the other contestants I focused on the water and demanded it to go in the other direction around my kayak and it worked I shot forward fast and was lifted up some on a wave before being dropped back down into the water at normal height.

I threw my hands behind me and shot air out of them giving me even more speed. It didn’t take me long before I was approaching a flag as I approached it though the water around it began circling and it was quickly sucked under several of the competitors behind me scrambled to get out of the path of the vortex of water but not me, I was prepared I sailed straight for the vortex and let it suck me under.

I moved my hands around and the water around my head parted then I summoned a small plant to my hands for oxygen I looked around and spotted the flag I maneuvered the kayak and the water around me to propel me like a jet towards it and then I reached out and grabbed it one flag down two to go. I shot back up out of the water and made my way forward.

Part 1 conclusion

I was flying so fast towards the second flag when lighting shot out of the sky towards me most people would have tired to duck but not me my mom had taught me the best way to fight an element most of the time was to use it to your advantage rather than try to counter it I summoned my power and focused on the lighting heading toward me as soon as it made contact I redirected it blasting it into the sky.

I proceed to make my way to the second flag when an ice sickle shot at me I ducked and turned to see one of my contestants with hand full of ice. Big mistake I thought.

The attacker shot the ice from her fingertips in a seemingly never ending furry of ice sickles, but I was quicker I raised both my hands and sent a wave of water so high that it blocked her attack of ice sickles and then knocker he off the kayak she was on as it came crashing down.

I grabbed the second flag and this time made both the water around me and the wind around me work as one to shoot me forward before my attacker could recover. I was going pretty fast when the tenacle’s shot out of the water at me I ducked as one tried to grab me and then I shot a bolt of purple lighting at them I heard a blood curling scream as the lighting connected with the creature and the tenacle’s faded back into the water.

I quickly took off again suddenly afraid of whatever else could be lurking under those waters. As I approached the third flag I saw a man standing on a cloud that appeared to be glowing yellow then I realized he was it was Apollo and he was aiming an arrow.

Dam Apollos arrows are enchanted he wont miss I thought quickly about what to do as it wouldn’t be possible to duck. Apollo fired as I was thinking about it I acted quickly chanting a rare spell that my mom had taught me the Arrow reached me and slightly pierced me when there was a circle of blue light the formed around me like a down and then a white crystal version of me shot backwards.

I looked down where the arrow had pierced me was undamaged and the arrow was no where to be seen it worked I had gone back in time or at least I had in a sense it wasn’t possible to rewind time as a whole but you could rewind time for an individual for seconds to a view minutes depending on the circumstance but it was hard magic only high level practitioners even got close to ever pulling it off and even then many masters couldn’t.

Apollo must have known this as he starred at me with a look of what appeared to be both disbelief and intrigued. I grabbed my third flag and then made my way back to the island shooting off at a rapid pace. It didn’t take me long to arrive at the island and Apollo materialized next to be from a ball of fire.

An we have are first place winner Rebecca Rainey his voice boomed across the island. The crowd cheered.

My mom came running down the beach with a look of pride in her eyes and wrapped her hands tightly around me I hugged her back tightly. You did it honey you won and on your first contest that is impressive.

I am a bit shocked honestly.

Don’t be honey you have worked hard and that hard work has paid off theres no way you don’t get the interest of at least one of the Greek gods now said Mom was a sign of relief.

There are several who pick contestants that don’t win based on what skills they showed during tournament’s though mom.

Ture but there are several who prefer the ones who do win I bet Ares takes interest in you.

I shuddered on the inside Ares was a bit violent for my liking however I couldn’t afford to be picky everything was riding on this and if I didn’t get picked by one Greek deity then I would be sent to serve the other deity’s and the Norse did not treat the Greeks will when they got them.

He isn’t as bad as your thinking said mom.

How do you know I asked?

Because Ares once went out of his way to help the magic users of our time and it did nothing to further his own goals.

Really tell me about it.

It was a long time ago back when the factions where all still waring with each other the magic users where killing each other left and right which you would think would be something Ares of all people would have been for.

He wasn’t I asked?

No it is true he is violent at times however he is not senseless in the things he does he saw the bloodshed as a problem and chose to act to end it the Ares is the one who came up with the selection ceremony each of the magic practicians of the era would be selected by one deity and pledge to serve them and only them in return for being infused with there power.

And the other deity’s agreed to this?

Yes, honey because both sides where losing life’s and it wasn’t long before practitioners of the era where directly opposing deity’s.

That’s possible I asked?

Normally no but that much war has a price for everyone including the gods you see when the lifeforce leaves a practitioner it is possible for someone to steal the power though it is rare and very dangerous it does happen from time to time but it also requires very dark magic necromancy and blood magic.

But it does happen?

Yes honey it does happen and when thousands of practitioners of magic are dying it is an open invitation to those who have mastered the skill.

So Ares helped keep order then I asked?

Yes Ares is one of the main gods responsible for the peace we have today despite being the god of war he has only used he abilities against those who have gone against the treaty.

Thanks for telling me about this mom it does make me feel better to know if he does select me.

Of course honey remember it is going to be okay no matter what but you should get to bed the Ares trial is tomorrow.

I nodded, your right goodnight mom.

Goodnight honey. I made my way up stairs and to my bedroom and it didn’t take me long to fall asleep.

Part Two Conclusion.

The next morning I got early and began getting ready today was Ares trail which meant that combat was a key part of it I made my way downstairs to where mom was waiting.

Okay honey you know the drill Ares is a combat trial I have a suit of armor that was sent by the hosts of the this tournament you can try it on just to make sure you comfortable with it but it is also enchanted so it should fit no matter what size it arrived in said Mom.

I made my way over to the suit of armor and looked closely at it.

Mom could you help me into it I think this kind of armor would work better without regular clothes I am going to change into my undershirt I stated.

Okay honey just don’t be long.

I wont be. I made my way upstairs and quickly changed into my under clothes then came back down stairs and walked up to the armor. My mom helped me into it and the suit formed around me on its own a perfect fit.

I looked in the mirror the suit of amor I was given was an interested shade of black and gold. It is beautiful I stated.

I’m glad you think so it was given to you as a gift from one of the deity’s said Mom.

What really what one I thought all champions where given a suit of armor for todays event.

They are but many will just get silver which is the standard only the champions that have gotten the interest of the deity’s will have amor like yours answered mom.

Does it say who it is from I asked?

Yes, but I didn’t want to tell you.

Why not mom I need to know I stated strongly.

I know but you need to keep an open mind because you are too quick to think the worst of people.

I will try to keep and open mind mom.

Promise?

I promise.

Hades took an interest in you after your performance in the apollo trial yesterday.

Part of me shuddered but another part of me was excited I was very much into the bad buy type and hades was kind of the personification of that plus it was good I was getting noticed this meant that gods had taken interest in me.

We need to go hop in the car Rebecca.

I made my way to the car and hoped in as mom instructed and we took off down the road. I couldn’t help but notice the way the armor complimented my dark black hair and pale skin the armor even complimented my hazel Perl eyes. I looked into the mirror and nodded I loved the way I looked.

We pulled up to the location of the tournament and my mom waved me to go on down and get ready while she found and spot for the car.

I made my way to the center of a ring and stood on one of the squares the ring was huge as was the stadium for it being outdoors. I stood on a square tile made of metal as did the other contestants.

Ladies and Gentlemen, we all know why we are here so let’s get on with it a voice boomed. The square plat forms we were standing on shot into the air.

Go yelled the booming voice.

Several weapon’s appeared in the center of the ring but when we all went to move for them the metal squares split to where we all floated on a separate square in the air. Several of the contestants around me began jumping from square to square trying to get to the weapons.

The squares where not sturdy and some jumped to far on the edge and they tilted over dropping the contestants. Okay so that is not a good strategy I thought.

I began chanting I summoned a blast of wind and circled it around all the weapon’s in the center of the ring like a tornado sucking them all in and then I broke my hands apart and the weapons went flying in all directions some shooting out of the ring entirely panicked contestants dodged out of the way some falling off the platforms to the ground below.

If it wasn’t for the gods prevent the contestants from dying, I would feel horrible right about now as for if they where caught before making contact or healed after I didn’t want to find out. I grabbed a black spear with a extremely pointed tip.

A contestant made a grab at me but I swung the back end of the spear around and knocked him off balance I saw a glow from behind me and turned around to see a girl contestant with blond hair shoot a fireball at me I used the spear to deflect it just in time as yet another contestant came at me this one was different though he wore all gold armor and held a gold sword.

He kicked me hard in the chest and I flew off the back of the metal tile. I screamed as I headed towards the ground.

PART THREE CONCLUSION

I was spiraling towards the ground when I regain my composure and instead of screaming, I began casting I summoned dark magic and formed wings made out of shadows and flew back up into the ring.

The opponent in the gold armor that kicked me off looked angry when he spotted me he threw his solid gold sword at me but I caught it mid air and sent it flying back at him at a rapid pace it collided with him and he fell off the tile he was standing on.

Several more contestants tried to run at me but I send a ball of shadows through them they shivered and dropped there weapons some fell off there platforms and others just kneeled to the ground shaking.

I looked around seeing who else might be getting ready to charge at me when the announcer voice boomed once again the winner is Rebecca Rainey the other contestants sure will want to get it together in the next competition if they hope to compete with her.

I shuttered I hated being put on the spot like that it would only make things harder for me in the long run but at least I would be more likely to be considered by one of the Greek gods versus being sent to serve one of the other gods.

The platforms lowered to the ground and several of the contestants gave me angry glares as they where leaving, my next task isn’t going to be easy I thought.

My mom came and found me. You did so great honey said mom.

Yea but I made all of them mad mom I am worried about the next competition.

You don’t have to worry to much about that the next competition is the Aphrodite competition and that one is not combat heavy it is flirt heavy.

Ughh that’s almost worse I stated.

I know honey but remember the tournament is important. I know I don’t want to get sent away I will try my best mom.

I know you will said mom.

My mom and I went out for pizza that afternoon and it wasn’t long before I was crawling into bed.

I awoke the next day and began to get ready when I saw there where a pair of clothes laid out if you could call them that. It was a top and a bottom of a swim suit.

The pieces where yellow I signed and quickly changed into them and made my way downstairs.

You look so cute honey.

I am glad you think so I stated

I know so these pieces were picked out by Aphrodite herself for each contestant to match there skin complexion she felt you pale skin complimented the yellow.

I looked into the mirror we had near by on the wall I had to admit I did look good even though I thought my skin being pale and having dark black hair could have also been complimented by blue just as well however I also knew that each contestant would have a different color two piece or for the males one piece as they didn’t want to contestants to all look alike for all the tournament’s.

Okay so I just have to charm as money people as possible right I asked?

Yes and you may use magic.

Then why do I have to wear this.

You know why he helps drive the men crazy said mom

Men are shallow I mumbled.

Indeed, they are but once you get through today at least it will be over with said mom.

True enough lets head out I stated.

We made our way to the white sand beach and got out several contestants where lined up dressed in swim wear that barley covered them.

Aphrodite appeared in a sparkling red dress. She covered I thought but then quickly shook it off as mom was right, I needed to get through today.

The goal today is to charm as many people as possible but there is a catch the beach will have enchantment’s that will effect you to a good practitioner will be able to keep charms at bay as well as charm, now without further delay let the games begin.

Aphrodite clapped her hands together and several pink lights shot out down the beach the contestants and I began running after them.

One of the contestants tried to trip me even though this wasn’t a combat match I quickly dodged though, and they ended up tripping the contestant behind them the two began to scuffled and a pike light ingulfed them.

I knew what that meant Aphrodite had disqualified them. Thanks for making this easier I thought.

I came up to the first target a woman was sitting down sunbathing I walked up hello could I join you I asked adding charm magic to my voice the woman looked me up and down and said yes.

It’s a nice day isn’t it I asked?

Yes, I think so the sun is shining it is a good day for a tan said the woman.

Yes, it is I stated.

The woman smiled and laid back down in a relaxed state.

I really hate this tournament I thought.

Would you want to go back to my place I asked?

The woman looked at me and smiled. Yes, lead the way.

I made my way back to the drop off point for those we gathered and dropped the woman off then made my way back on to the beach. I hate this I hated flirting however it was more than that it didn’t set well with me what we were doing although the people we gathered wouldn’t be harmed this was a huge violation of their free will.

But at least if I win this, I should have enough points to stay with he Greeks and with my mom and that is what matters I thought.

I don’t want to drag this out any longer than I have to though I began chanting I knew how to end this quicker however it was a complicated spell fortunately I was good at complicated spells.

I felt my voice and it sounded different as I unleashed a tune of melody out of it I heard people begin to gather both the targets and even some of the contestants and I walked down the beach a line of people formed behind me and as I got to the end of the beach at the drop off zone the goddess of love appeared before me.

Well done Rebecca Rainey once again you win, and she winked at me and then shot fireworks into the air that turned into my name for first place.

The crowd cheered it was clear I was quickly becoming a fan favorite which was good fan favorites nearly were always chosen by a deity not to mention three strait wins in row would help my case greatly.

My mom helped me back up and we headed home. I quickly got showered and washed the sand off of me and was glad to put on some real clothes as I didn’t like being barely covered. I finished with my shower then made my way downstairs where mom had dinner ready.

So what test is tomorrow I asked?

Zeus trial my mom replied.

I felt a bit of dread in my stomach Zeus trial was known to be one of the hardest, but it was one of the most important those that won at it were shown great interest by the gods and that mattered.

Do you know what his trial this year entails I asked?

Yes, it is a chariot fight in the air.

What pulls the chariot I asked?

It will be different for each champion the gods will randomly select what each champion has pulling there chariot as part of there test they will have to work with a creature they may never have dealt with before.

I can manage that I love animals you remember how I tamed the wild dragons I stated

Yes, I was furious you put yourself in that situation when you were only thirteen, but the beast masters thought you were gifted said Mom.

The Beastmaster’s were right I got this I stated.

I know but you best get to bed honey morning will come early said mom.

Your right goodnight mom love you.

Goodnight love you too.

I made my way upstairs and crawled into bed and it wasn’t long before I fell asleep.

PART 4 CONCLUSION

I woke up the next morning and game downstairs to my mom who looked a little distressed.

What’s wrong I asked?

Your mount has arrived she waved me to follow her, and I did. We walked out the door and standing there was a black Pegasus with wings glowing orange eyes and flames shootings out of his mouth and engulfing his hooves.

She’s pretty I stated.

This is the mount of hades Rebecca it is one of the most dangerous mounts you could have ended up with just as problematic as a dragon said mom.

It won’t matter mom I have got this I stated.

I hope so honey

It will be fine I stated.

I made my way over to the chariot and boarded.

What about breakfast asked Mom.

I have a pop tart in my pocket, but I need to try and get a handle on this mount before the Zeus tournament starts I stated.

My mom nodded and I grabbed the reigns and took off.

The chariot was black like the horse and it was round despite some chariots being more of a square the seat was open in the front for drivers to guide there mounts shadow took off for the sky at a rapid pace we were flying up at the same speed a jet would have traveled this is risky I thought the higher we go the more issues we could run into however I also didn’t know what Zeus would have us doing exactly he could have many obstacles for the contestants in this battle.

I grabbed the reigns and tried to stir the mount of hades in a different direction she resisted however I tried harder and she yielded turned the opposite direction we even outed momentarily before she dove straight for the ground I screamed as we shot like a jet straight for the ground I grabbed the reigns again and pulled up hard and she leveled out.

That’s enough for now I thought I guided her to the ground. We landed gracefully enough I got off the chariot and walked up to the horse.

You’re a wild one but I think you and I will make a good team I wasn’t given your name so if it is okay with you, I am going to call you shadow I stated.

The Pegasus bowed her head which I took to mean yes, and I petted her.

Well looks like you two have a mutual respect for each other said Mom.

Indeed, we do I stated.

Good because it is almost time for the Zeus tournament to start, we need to make our way to the beach again you will take off into the air from there said mom.

Sounds good I stated.

My mom and I hoped into the chariot and shadow ran taking us to the location of this tournament at a rapid pace.

Shadow stopped long enough for my mom to hop out and then she pulled us up to the other contestants all of whom were sitting in there respect chariots some had dragons at the helm some had white Pegasus some even had unicorns, but they did not appear to have wings and to my surprise one chariot had dolphins I didn’t get how dolphins could fly but the gods were free to make up there own rules that was after all a perk of being a god.

Zeus appeared of a flash of bright blue lighting. The rules are simple the contestants are not to leave the chariot to get forced out of your chariot is to lose including if you manage to land on your mounts your job is to bring the other contestants down said Zeus.

Great I thought what could possibly go wrong with us shooting magic at each other hundreds of feet up in the air.

Let this trial begin yelled Zeus all of the contestants shot into the air including me I gripped my reigns around shadow tightly.

A contest who was being pulled by a solid black dragon came flying at me the dragon opened its mouth at shot a huge stream of fire at shadow.

Shadow being she had fire based powers was unfazed I shot a huge amount of air shards at the dragon who ducked underneath and then I shot a ball of ice that collided with the dragon and quickly spread incasing it in ice the dragon began to fall.

I cast a spell to ease its fall even though I knew the gods wouldn’t let the contestants die I didn’t know what they would do with the mounts I would hope the same rules apply.

A contestant who was being pulled by a unicorn and a solid white chariot came charging at me. The unicorn horn shot of a rainbow stream of magic at Shadow however she was quicker and dove under it causing my stomach to twist in knots.

The unicorns rider shot a stream of dark magic at me in spread in a purplish black smoke out at us I summoned the wind and sent the magic flying back at him forcing him to drop from the air rapidly I quickly cast a spell to ease there fall as well.

A contestant being pulled by dolphins in beautiful blue chariot came flying at me at a rapid pace and shot a steam of water so huge it came at us like a tidal wave would have it collided with shadow and I and we and several other contestants went down.

I maneuvered the water away from me and shadow managed to recover we shot up out of the giant body of water back at the contestant with the dolphins he was the only one left in the air besides us.

He summoned something that glowed a bright golden yellow and I realized it was a trident he through it and it pierced into Shadow she let out a great yelp as we began to descend the air spiraling around me.

I managed to cast a spell just in time to break our fall before we hit the ground and then I quickly hopped off the chariot and made my way to Shadow I cast a spell to keep her from feeling the pain as I pulled out the trident and then I cast a spell to heal her.

Fire burned in my eyes I hated this. I finished healing shadow then turned to see an assortment of god magics

A flash of blue lighting, and body of water and a ball of shadow and fire all appeared and turned into three men. Zeus, Poseidon and Hades.

My mother came running down and pulled me and shadow over to her out of her way.

Them being her is not a good sign said mom.

I nodded but could not take my eyes of them.

The laws of the trials demand no divine magic be used said Zeus in a voice that boomed.

Yes but more than that it should not have been possible said Hades.

Both Hades and Zeus looked to Poseidon. I did not do this, but I assure you we will get to the bottom of this replied Poseidon.

Yes, we will replied Zeus.

They all turned to the contestant who had used the divine magic.

Tell us how you came to be in possession of such magic stated Hades.

I was born with it replied the contestant.

What is your name asked Zeus?

Joshua replied the contestant.

Is he one of yours brother asked Zeus?

No however his magical signature does give off that of a demigod somebody in my court must have sired him I propose we remove him from this competition and I will take him to Atlantis and get this all sorted out said Poseidon.

Zeus seemed to think for a minute.

Hades are you okay with this course of action.

Yes, it does not violate the treaty as he is not a typical practitioner demi gods under the guidelines of the treaty are not subject to being sent to serve the other gods as it would create to many disputes said Hades.

Very well your request is granted Poseidon he is to be taken immediately as he is not eligible for this competition said Zeus.

Understood brother.

Poseidon teleported in a huge wave of water taking the contestant with him and the water faded into the air.

As for who won I suppose as the only one who was still fighting in the air immediately before Joshua you are the winner Rebecca said Zeus.

Fire works shot into the air as did several different colored blasted of lightning that spelled out my name.

The crowd began cheering it after all winning a Zeus trial was very important and being I had already won all the others I was defiantly on track for being selected.

My mom and I took Shadow and made our way out of there.

Hades appeared in front of us out of a swirl of darkness and fire. Going somewhere with my stead he asked?

Sorry I didn’t think about it I began to get off of the horse however hades held up his hand.

No I was only jesting you showed you were willing to defend the creatures of this tournament after discussing it with my wife Persephone and with Artemis we have decided that Shadow can remain with you for your lifetime said Hades.

Thank you Hades I stated.

Your welcome now I must be off. Hades teleported out in a shadowy smoke.

Wow honey you are defiantly making an impression said mom.

Yea no kidding I stated.

Well the good news is tomorrow is the Artemis tournament that one is a hunt so it should be easier than what you have had to endure so far as far as not needing to go through so much combat.

Or flirting I stated.

Or flirting said mom.

We made our way back to our house when I realized I wasn’t sure how shadow was going to fit we didn’t exactly live on a farm and that’s when she shrunk down to a miniature size and began flying in the air next to me.

That’s adorable said mom.

It is I stated.

I made my way inside and realized how tired I truly was.

Mom I am going to bed I stated.

Sounds good honey see you in the morning.

See you I stated.

I woke up a little earlier than I was planning but that was alright because it would give me more time to eat breakfast.

I wonder what a hunt from the moon goddess will entail I thought.

My mom must have heard me stirring because she came down and began making eggs which wasn’t my favorite however I light breakfast would be ideal if I would be doing a whole lot of chasing.

Artemis challenges’ are some of the easiest combat wise normally said mom.

You have said as much but I won’t be happy until all of this is over.

It will start to go buy fast after a while said mom.

After a while I would like for it to fly by now I stated.

Understandable honey but the trial are important.

I know mom I know I stated.

Mom handed me my eggs and I began to eat.

It wasn’t long before my mom and I had finished breakfast. Well may as well head that way I stated.

Artemis sent a message for the contestants to meet her in the woods nearby said mom.

I followed mom to the car and we took off towards the woods it didn’t take us long to arrive Artemis was dressed in all silver armor and had brunette hair that came down to her should and perfectly tanned skin some people assumed the moon goddess would be pale white like I am but they were wrong.

I walked up to her and slightly bowed my head in respect she nodded back.

Contestant Rebecca Rainey you are free to start as this competition does not rely on the presence of other contestants it will not matter when the others arrive your goal is to decide what you are going to hunt and bring back the essence of what you take out however there will be obstacle’s in your path.

Also you should note that I appreciate you arriving early while I can not give points based on that it says a lot about you compared to the contestants that still slumber now go begin your trial said Artemis.

I took off towards the woods quickly found two different groups in a dispute one a group of people in red cloaks with fire magic in there hands the other a group of primally dressed woman with spears and what appeared to be dirt for eye shadow I immediately recognized them as the amazons.

The creature must be stopped it is unnatural said one of the men in red cloaks.

The creature has done now harm to you or your kin more likely you seek to bind it to your will we will not let you through now be gone said one of the woman with a spear.

I am afraid we can’t do that said the man.

Then you will have to be made to leave said the woman.

The man and the others dressed in red cloaks summoned a huge wall of fire and shot it up in the air and had it form in front of them like a tidal wave but made of fire.

The amazons were forced to move backwards as the fire moved forwards.

Fight fair your cowardly wizard said the amazon leader.

It is not unfair to use what you have to your advantage said the red cloaks leader.

Perhaps not but it sounds like they are in the wrong of this I thought.

I summoned a huge wall of water and shot it forward extinguishing the fire.

The red cloaks all turned spotting me and summoning more fire to there hands as they shot it out at me in multiple streams of fire and fire balls I summoned a wall of ice in front of me blocking there attack the amazons used the distraction to begin throwing there spears into the red cloaks the red cloaks that weren’t killed on impact turned there attention back to the amazons and began blasting them with fire.

I turned my ice wall into several sharp ice sickles and sent them flying impaling the red cloaks with ice.

The leader of the red cloaks turned his eyes glowing orange and began chanting and the form of a dragon but made of fire shout out of him at me. I had seen such advanced magic before from my mother but this was the first time I saw someone other than here preform such a feat.

I lowered my self to the ground and shot a eagle made of air followed by two dolphins made of water the collided with the dragon of fire and all extinguished in the middle of the field.

I summoned a huge amount of water out of the air around the red cloaks and soaked them. The leader of the red cloaks looked at me as if I had lost my mind but he didn’t know what I was planning I shot a bolt of purple lighting out my hand it hit the puddle beneath them and they all screamed as the electricity went through them breaking theme each down.

The leader of the amazons gave and order the her people to make sure none of the red cloaks got back up and the amazons quickly went to work stabbing each one with there spears.

The leader of the amazon approached me, and I nodded my head low in a gesture of respect.

No need for that you are already an equal you chose to help us rather than set on the side lines I am Cora, and I am honored to meet you.

Rebecca you as well.

I must ask why are you here in this forest asked Cora?

I am not sure Artemis has sent me on a hunt, but I don’t think it is as simple as that.

Oh, I see I believe you are correct, but it is not for me to speak for Artemis I can however help you what do you need we would have died in that wall of fire if not for you said Cora.

I thought for a minute then decided the best course of action was to meet the creature they had been fighting over.

May I meet the creature you and the red cloaks were fighting over I asked?

Normally I would not allow such a thing of outsider however today I will allow as you are here on Artemis terms.

Thank you I turned and looked at the field.

Give me just a second though. I walked over the where the fire magic had burned and used a combination of earth and healing magic to restore it then I used necromancy to summoned the essence of the fallen into a vile I had on me.

Strange one you are to heal life and then steal it said Cora.

It is not my choice to collect essence that is part of my assigned task from lady Artemis though I agree I find necromancy distasteful.

Ah but it is different when the choice is not yours to make it is best you follow our ladies wishes but come now we have chatted enough it is time to grant your request follow me said Cora.

I followed Cora through the woods and into a temple that was hidden in the center of several buses we made our way down stone steps and into a library she walked over to one of the book shelfs and pulled a torch on the wall near the book shelf and it opened.

You don’t seem surprised why is that asked Cora?

It is something we see a lot in movies I stated.

What’s a movie asked Cora?

My face contorted partly in surprise and partly at my own stupidity of course the amazons hadn’t seen a movie they followed the old ways and only the old ways.

It’s a product of modern society like your spear.

It is a weapon asked Cora?

No, it is a fake series of events that plays on a digital device.

Cora looked at me confused. You have strange magics in this era.

I didn’t bother to try explain further as I wasn’t sure how though I am sure she would be interested to know the devices weren’t magic.

We made our way down into a center chamber that seemed to be made of stone and what I saw took me off guard and black Genie with glowing orange tattoos floated in the middle of the stone cellar.

Why have you brought this outsider here Cora asked the Genie in a voice that boomed. This is Rebecca she helped us defeat the red coats that stalked your magic for so long I think she is a friend and may be able to help with your current predicament said Cora.

And how is that asked the Genie.

I am a practitioner I can help you escape I stated.

I can not leave here until I rescue the other being that the dark practitioners are hunting said the Genie.

I can help you rescue the being I stated.

You do not know what you are agreeing to young one you may have rivaled the red cloaks, but the dark practitioners are not like them they do not focus on elemental magic they focus on death blood and decay magics even the amazons do not go near them for it is a hopeless battle said the Genie.

I would try anyways I stated.

The Genie starred at me and then nodded.

Very well I am known as Swift for throughout the cosmos in the battles I have been in I have ended them quickly.

I had never meant a genie in person before I didn’t know that they were named based on there skills, but it made sense at least as much as anything else with magic did.

What being are we trying to save I asked?

The Dragon such a being is the only being that rivals the genies outside of the gods we need move quickly if the dark practitioners gather its power the world will fall.

Then lets go can you port us to wear the Dragon is being hunted I asked?

Yes take my hand and we will be off I walked up and took the Genies giant black hand and it teleported us away with strange and smoky magic.

When we arrived on top of a rocky hill with lava sleeping below us through and several dead trees.

Is this still part of the forest I asked?

Yes you didn’t know what forest you entered did you girl the woods your lady sent you through were not to the woods that you are use to being in at your home you crossed a portal the moment you walked through the trees.

Then what forest am I in I asked?

The Dragion Djinn Forest replied Swift.

I thought this place was a myth I stated.

That is the idea Dragons and Genies are the most powerful creatures ever and practitioners seek out there power or to bind them to their will to frequently said swift.

That’s awful I stated.

It is what it is we had a handle on it until these dam red cloaks and dark practitioners showed up said Swift.

I will do what I can to help you free the dragon of them I stated.

I appreciate that young one, but it may not be enough there shadows have a way of blocking fire magic and as that is what both I and the dragon they hunt weld being that we are a fire genie and fire dragon we cannot harm them.

But I can I stated.

Yes, but there are hundreds of them and one of you how do you propose to do anything against them asked Swift?

By using there plans and magic against them.

What do you mean?

Do you trust me I asked while looking at the genie?

I want to replied Swift.

Your going to have to if you want me to be able to help this dragon.

Why what is your plan asked Swift?

I need to make a wish I stated.

Swift looked angry.

I know how hypocritical that sounds but here me out you said yourself your element is fire as is the dragon and that the dark practitioners shadows block fire magic I can not defeat them all on my own but if I was to wish for there own magics to turn on them.

Swifts eyes lit up. They would have no real recourse they aren’t prepared for it said Swift.

Exactly I will do a blood oath if you want just, please trust me.

Blood oaths only work on mortal beings young one however I do believe you may be trust worthy I will allow it Swift held out his right hand and a red glow flashed and there was a pendant made of ruby shaped light a phoenix glowing red.

This is my lamp take it and I am yours to command said Swift.

I grabbed the pendant and put it around my neck clipping the black string in place behind me.

Your wish is my command said Swift.

I wish for the dark practitioners magic to turn against them. There was a flash of orang and red light and Swift clapped his hands and it sounded like thunder rolled through the fields of lava below us.

Did it work I asked?

I think so said Swift.

I looked down and saw several people in black cloaks running away from shadows chasing after them firing spells. Some tried to fire there own spells back but were cut down by the shadows.

I watched for a few more moments before I realized a better move for the good of this forest.

I wish for the current people who hunt you to disappear permanently from this land unable to return.

Swift grinned and clapped his hands together again and in a another roar of thunder and flash of light all the dark practitioners disappeared.

A solid black dragon flew out the sky and roared it flew fast landing near us but it didn’t move to attack it bowed its head.

I see you found aid to our problem swift. Yes this is Rebecca a good hearted practitioner said Swift.

It is a pleasure to meet you Rebecca I am Ember leader of the fire dragons of this land and I will remember what you have done here for us today should you ever need us you have but to call and we will hear you no matter where in the world you are said Ember.

Thank you Ember.

Ember bowed his head and then flapped his wings and took off for the sky.

You have one wish left do you want to use it for your self-asked Swift?

No, I want to use it for your land I wish for all those who are not pure of heart and who would harm any of the residents of this land for any reason to be unable to enter here.

Swift surprise was quickly replaced by joy as he clapped his hands together a energy shield formed around the land.

I will send you back to your lady thank you young one I make you the same offer Ember made you have but to call and we will show said Swift.

Swift shot orang dust out of his hands that circled around me and it took me away causing the seen around me to spin and spitting me out by lady Artemis.

Well, what was your choice asked Artemis. I got off the ground and pulled out a vile handing it to Artemis who looked confused.

The essence of practitioners who have succumb to an element this was not part of the trial tell me Rebecca what happened while you were in there.

I recounted everything and Artemis began pacing.

This is not good not good at all I must consult with Zeus as for you consider yourself passed my trial does not have first place or second place it has who would defend the innocents however that was supposed to be in a setting of my choosing not in actual uncontrolled combat still you did well go home and rest Rebecca, you earned it said Artemis.

Before I could ask her anything she was gone in a flash of white light.

My mom walked over to me concern written all over her face.

Are you alright she asked?

Yes, but something is wrong I stated.

I know I heard but let us do as she said you could use the rest.

Shadow came running towards me and nudged my hand I petted her.

What a day I stated.

What trial do I face tomorrow I asked my mother as we walked through the house and Shadow shrink down to small size to fit and fly around.

The forger trial you will just have to make weapons.

That is a peace of cake compared to today I stated.

I know go get some rest though you will still need it said mom.

I nodded I really did need some rest.

I made my way upstairs and slide into my bed Shadow curled up at my feet which it was weird watching a horse with wings curl up like a cat but she was still cute.

I felt my heavy eyes slide close and the darkness took me.

I woke up the next morning to my mom making chocolate chip pancakes I took one whiff and my mouth immediately started to water.

Good morning honey the pancakes are almost done would.

Good call on the pancakes mom I stated.

I figured you could use a pick me up after the events of the last few days said mom.

I nodded and immediately began to tear into my pancakes when she set the plate down.

Its just about time to head out are you ready asked mom?

Sure am I stated.

We made our way to the car and took off it didn’t take us long to arrive and a field of grass that almost looked as if it could have previously been a football field several booths were sit up.

A man appeared in the middle of the field out of a big ball of fire.

Hephaestus the god of the forge stood before us.

Today you will not have to worry about any combat however you will have to worry about your weapon making skills the winners will be judged on the quality of there weapons to start with you shall make a sword pick a booth and begin stated Hephaestus.

Each of us walked up to a open booth and looked at what was in front of us. I looked down to see copper silver iron and steel as wheel as some magical materials.

I reached for a whitish martial I recognized as a frost rune. I then began hammering a piece of Onyx the black Dimond molded into the shape of a sword and then I began casting a spell to merge the frost rune into the black Dimond sword.

It didn’t take long before the enchantment took hold.

Hephaestus called time and he came around to inspect our work one sword was made out of copper however it was curved.

An unusual style to be sure but a genius cannot make new products without going against the trend well done Harper.

The next sword Hephaestus grabbed fell apart as he picked it up and he shook his head then kept walking. He continued to make his rounds until he got to me.

Interesting you merged a frost rune with Onyx most would have used fire with that coloring I like the change in the trend it may even distract enemies if the make the assumption it is a fire weapon and try to guard against that kind of attack instead of a frost attack well done.

Thank you I stated.

Your welcome but don’t get a big head yet there are still two more trials. I wasn’t getting a big head I was just being polite I thought.

Next up make a bow that is worth of the gods.

A bow worthy of the gods likely wouldn’t need arrows or at least it would need enchanted arrows I thought.

I reached through the magic material and pulled out an earth rune and merged them with the arrows I crafted then I used solid gold material as I shaped my bow, and I used a light rune for the bow string so that the bow string would glow bright yellow to go with the gold.

It didn’t take long before I was finished.

Hephaestus called time again. Special surprise for you the third test is actually a review of your second test but not by me the third test is the impressive Gia.

The dirt around us blew through the air and gather in the middle forming a woman with bright emerald, green eyes the stuck out against her pale skin and dark hair.

She began walking through the contestants she picked up several of the bows however she didn’t comment weather she liked them or not everyone was nervous as the trials didn’t tend to include Gia.

Gia made her way over to my bow and picked up then smiled.

What made you build your bow this way asked Gia?

I wanted a weapon that would both harm and trap my attacker I stated.

Most would have just gone for an extreme offense your bow is most unusual in that it can trap an enemy as well as kill them in fact I would like to claim this bow as mine said Gia.

I wasn’t sure what to say I hadn’t intended on keeping the bow however I hadn’t expected a goddess to want the bow either.

Do you object asked Gia?

No sorry my lady it just took me by surprise I stated.

Understandable I would also like to declare you the winner of this competition congratulations said Gia as she held up her hands several flowers in a field spelled out my name in a beautiful assortment of colors.

Wow that is amazing I stated.

Of course, it is dear I have been watching you the bow is one thing, but I also saw how you sought to restore life to the fields that had been destroyed by the red cloaks I won’t forget that either.

Before I could say anything, back Gia disappeared and a huge pile of dirt that blew through the air.

Wow honey you keep doing great said mom.

Yea I think I should have some interested gods by now for sure I stated.

I think you should to come on lets go get you cleaned up said mom.

We loaded into the car and made our way back to the house.

Gia

Zeus my son you must hear me the trial can go on for the other contestants, but the girl is exceptional in her abilities we should vote and somebody could pick her now.

Mother you know the laws the trials must be completed by all practitioners unless they turn out to have god blood which Rebecca does not stated Zeus.

Yes but exceptions can be made if there circumstances call for it I stated.

I would not risk war with the other gods so that we can pick a candidate early replied Zeus harshly.

I couldn’t argue that logic as he was right there were risks if the other gods decided to take issue with it the peace was delicate enough as it is however still I could not let this go the girl has something to her.

Father she may have a point I saw her manipulate time stated Apollo.

Zeus turned quickly.

And you said nothing about this until now why?

You know why father it is a conflict of interest for us to discuss why we are considering current practitioners to be our avatars I would not be brining it up now if it wasn’t fore I feel Gia is correct we need to make her an avatar before the other gods become aware of her stated Apollo.

Zeus thought for a second and then his eyes hardened. What you all are proposing is an act of war we can not break the laws of the trials.

Brother if I may I think have a solution to the problem tomorrow is my trial if she truly can manipulate time then she may not be a practitioner anyways let me put it to the test tomorrow said Hades.

Go on brother said Zeus.

I will unleash hordes of the undead as a test but I will not stop unleashing them and we will not keep the contestants safe from dying if they die I will bring them back as is the law anyways so technically no rule is being broken even though we do tend to keep them from dying out right.

You think this will force her to reveal more skills asked Zeus?

Yes I wish to see if she uses god or titan magic she may not know she has it said Hades.

It was not the signature of Chronis said Apollo.

Zeus eyes hardened again.

Do not mention that name in my court Hades this plan has my support everyone dismissed.

Rebecca

I woke up the next day with some nudging from shadow in her miniature form I petted her and then rose out of bed and started getting dressed.

I made my way downstairs to where mom was already cooking breakfast.

I made one of your favorites chocolate chip pancakes said mom.

Thanks mom.

You feeling okay asked mom?

Yes its just I don’t really look forward to whatever the hades trial will have in store for me I stated.

That’s understandable honey but it will be okay are you ready to head out asked mom?

Yes.

I made my way out the door with my mom shadow followed behind us in her miniature form.

Before long we were arriving at the location my mom had be given the field was a barren field of dirt but there were woods on all sides of it.

This is curious I stated.

I wouldn’t worry to much about it you got this said mom.

Yes, I do I stated.

I hugged my mom and then made my way down to stand with the contestants.

Hades appeared out of a swirl of darkness and fire.

Greetings practitioners for today’s test you are going have to stop hordes of undead as it is a practitioners responsibility to keep the everyday citizens from finding out about the supernatural world as well as to keep them safe from it.

Hades took a breath.

Also for today you will not be fighting each other a good practitioner is able to stop the attack of a rival practitioner however a great practitioner is able to work with a rival practitioner in the event of a emergency so lets see how well you all do.

Hades held up his hands and several black holes appeared in the sky.

Ghosts poured out of the black holes a metal gates shot out of the ground and formed a purplish-blue portal in the middle of them skeletons began pouring out of those.

I looked around at my fellow practitioners some had anxiety written all over there face however others looked ready for battle.

I held up my hands and shot a blast of wind though the skeletons sending them flying. Several others launched there own attacks into the skeletons and as I saw fire balls and lighting fly into the ghosts.

Good so we are all going with the teamwork thing I was worried they might now follow that however Hades wasn’t exactly the god anybody really wanted to test with disobedience after all what he could do was scary.

That thought led me to another that dawned on me the great war between the gods had led to gods needing to combat those who could be summoned by beyond there was a way to contain the undead.

I began to chant and it didn’t take me long to feel the power reach my fingertips yellow light shot out from them and I muttered one word begone the yellow light expanded blasting through the undead and vaporizing them leaving behind ectoplasm in there wake.

The practitioners all began to high five each other one girl next to me high fived me.

Hades faded from the seen however more portals opened and several giant creatures came out. Dread filled my stomach as I realized what each of these creatures were a hydra, Cyperus, and a chimera.

The other practitioners and I summoned spells to our hands and began blasting them however many of the spells bounced off of them.

Hades really out did himself this time I thought.

The monsters charged and there was a scream but the monsters ran passed us as we dodged out of the way and toward the crowd of people.

Our families mom I thought. Magic may not work against them directly but I could still use it indirectly. I summoned the power from inside me and unleashed my time magic. The three monsters slowed down.

I sent a spell message to my mom. Get out of here mom something is wrong with this tournament I can’t hold these creatures locked like this forever.

I am not leaving you with these creatures honey my mom messaged back.

Dam it mom I thought. My spell broke and the monsters ran towards our families. However, a wall of water appeared in front of the monsters and froze over they ran into it and hit hard the ground beneath them also began to freeze.

Several tridents made of yellow light flew down from the sky and shot into the monsters. I looked and saw the man with gold armor I knew as Joshua.

They won’t be immune to your spells now contestants here’s your chance said Joshua. I nodded and summoned all the lighting I could from the sky and multiple bolts all different colors shot down into the monsters several of the other contestants blasted the monsters with their own spells.

Balls of darkness, blasts of light, fireballs, lightning, water and ice sickles all flew at the monsters nonstop until they faded into nothing leaving ash behind.

We took a sign of relief when even more creatures poured out of the gateways hades had opened.

That’s enough a voice boomed. A figure appeared on the field out of a ball of light and dark with the body of an animal and a jackals head.

Anubis, I realized. Anubis held up his hands and all of the gateways closed. There was a flash of red lighting and Zeus appeared.

You dare interrupt the tournament said Zeus. Zeus shot summoned a bolt made of red lighting and held it up shutting a stream of red lighting at Anubis a rainbow appeared in front of Anubis and out of it a man with a staff blocked the red lightning.

Odin.

A phoenix of fire appeared in Brigid stepped out of it.

You have violated the treaty between the gods said Brigid.

No I have not it is our right to test our practitioners how we chose this may have been a harder trial but it is well within our rights stated Zeus.

Only if it is not a threat to the other gods said Odin.

How is there a threat these practitioners could be taken out in an instant by any one of us state Zeus.

Perhaps however you know there should have been special considerations for a practitioner that could potentially be dangerous to the other gods stated Anubis.

None of these practitioners are a threat to you said Hades as he appeared out of the shadows.

Are they not this one held time at a standstill momentarily said Anubis?

As can all skilled practitioners not to mention she held an area of time at a different level of manipulation it is not possible to control time as a whole even Chronis didn’t have that much power states Zeus.

Perhaps however I feel the girl should face our trials as well said Odin.

Absolutely not that has never been done in history and there is no reason to start now said Zeus.

Yes there is if she is to be an avatar with her level of skill who knows what threat she could pose to any rival gods it is the only way to maintain the peace not to mention you have lost the faith of your own followers Zeus in this attack how do you think we knew to arrive her we know well that we cannot see into the activities of the other gods said Odin.

You were summoned then state Zeus.

Yes replied Odin.

Regardless the fact remains there is not acceptable reason to deviate from the current ways stated Zeus.

Perhaps we should let the girl decide said Brigid.

That is still not acceptable stated Zeus.

Tell me girl do you fell you can trust your gods one hundred percent after todays event asked Brigid?

I wasn’t sure what to say the tests were monitored however they let monsters go into the crowd I had studied the history and that had never been done in the years of practitioners trials.

I don’t know I managed to reply.

There’s your answer she should face our trials stated Odin.

No that was a manipulation not a way to decide this stated Zeus.

Well, what do you propose then asked Odin?

I have already given that answer as she is a Greek practitioner, she will finish out the Greek trials and be chosen as one of our avatars stated Zeus.

That answer doesn’t work for us replied Brigid.

Enough a voice boomed from the sky there was a flash of pure white light with a being seemingly made of what light that had wings to match.

The girl as it stands is a Greek practitioner Zeus is correct there is nothing that happened that changes the current arrangement stated the being.

Michael surely you can see this was a manipulation replied Odin.

To test the girls powers is the Greeks gods right so long as the bystanders and the contestants are not permanently harmed and while the test I saw today was not something I would care to see again it is still not in violation of any rules the Order of Light rules this matter closed let it be done stated Michael.

Very well the Archangel has degreed the Celtic shall honor it replied Brigid and she disappeared into a ball of fire.

As shall the Norse stated Odin and he was gone in a flash of yellow light.

The Egyptians do not seek a war either I shall go replied Anubis. He turned into a ball of shadow and light and then he was gone.

Good I do hope not to have to come down here again anytime soon stated Michael and in a flash of white light he shot off towards the sky and was gone too.

Zeus go home and get rest practitioners you all based today. Yes I would say so the monsters were all vanquished added Hades.

I made my way to my mom who hugged me tightly. Come with me quickly Rebecca there is somebody you need to talk to.

I nodded not having the energy to ask to many questions after today’s event after all it had been taxing.

I made my way too the car with my mom and we took off but instead of going home we too a few turns and ended up in a secluded spot in the woods.

Mom why are we here I asked?

Because you need to meet somebody here she replied.

You have mentioned that but why can’t they meet us at our house I asked?

Because it works better if they meet us here.