Through Ashes and Blood

How did I end up in this situation again? Staring into those bright yellow hybrid eyes, I could see an unsettled mix of anger and fear reflected back at me. The tension was palpable, and I had a sinking feeling that this time, I had truly pushed my limits. It wasn’t my fault I was born human; I often felt like I was meant to be one of them—a Myth, where I might truly belong. My eyes drifted over to his lips, moving in frantic urgency, yet all I could hear was the deafening ring that filled my ears, drowning out his words.

I had always known the risks that came with taking Materia. This potent elixir promised everything I ever longed for—the chance to fit in, to escape my mundane reality—yet this escape might very well lead to my downfall.

**Eight Weeks Earlier**

“How did you even find this spell for Materia?” Alice inquired, her eyes scanning the intricate symbols etched on the pages of an aged spellbook. Her brow furrowed with an unmistakable mix of curiosity and concern.

“Alice, I spend nearly every week with you and the other witches and wizards. It’s not like you lot keep secrets from me anymore,” I replied, tilting my head slightly, eyebrows raised in defiance.

“Fraya, this situation is different,” she said, pushing back a few strands of dark hair that had fallen across her face. “We trust you, but you’re toying with something dangerous. I’ve never seen a human use Materia before, and I have no idea what it could do to you. What if you take it, and it overwhelms your body or even your soul?” Alice sighed deeply, her frustration palpable. “Materia was outlawed for a reason. Too many Myths fell into addiction, and a good number ended up overdosing.”

I leaned closer, my hand gently resting on her shoulder. “Alice,” I said softly, “just breathe. Everything will be alright. I’m only asking for one night. Jake mentioned the bar where you and your friends hang out, and I need to experience it. I want to be among the Myths, not just glimpse them through my car window when I pick you up from college. I crave real connections, not just fleeting encounters.”

Her expression softened as she processed my words, the gears in her mind evidently turning. After a moment that felt like an eternity, she took a deep breath and let it out slowly, surrendering to my request. “Alright, but just tonight. And you will help make it.”

“Yes ma’am,” I replied, a grin breaking across my face, the thrill of the impending adventure coursing through my veins. The choice had been made, and now I stood on the precipice of something far more exhilarating—and perilous—than I had ever anticipated.

Staring at the bright, almost neon-blue potion, I could feel my heart racing with excitement. It worked—mixing the potion was successful. Now it was time to put all this effort to use. Taking a deep breath, I downed the entire drink. The bitter, iron taste made me squirm, but I placed the cup down and waited for something to happen.

“Did it work?” Alice asked, her arms crossed over her chest as she bounced a bit on her feet in anticipation.

"I don't feel any different," I muttered.

I shifted my weight from one foot to the other as I glanced around my small apartment, hoping to see a sign that it had worked. Letting out a breath, I felt the cold air move up my throat. When I noticed Alice's eyes widen, I couldn't help but smile a little.

“Holy shit, it worked! You just breathed out cold air; I could see it! And your eyes are a lighter blue now!” Proud of herself, Alice jumped in excitement.

I moved over to the mirror on my wall and looked at my reflection. My once dark blue eyes now sparkled brightly, resembling the liquid I had just drunk. My skin, which used to have a cool warm tone, now had a beautiful caramel color. My dark chocolate hair was more vibrant than before. Glancing down at my hands, I noticed a red glow pulsating along my veins.

“Oh,” Alice breathed, a hint of disappointment in her voice.

“What is it?” I asked, turning to her quickly, worried that something was wrong.

“It's nothing,” she began to pace a little. “You know how I told you the potion could give you the abilities of different myths? Well, I think it gave you sorcerer powers,” she muttered.

“Is that a bad thing?” I asked, raising my eyebrow slightly.

"Well, sorcerers were executed about fifty years ago. All sorcerers. King Andrews, before his reign fell, tried to stop sorcerers from using dark magic. The council came to an agreement that dark magic should be outlawed because it is untamable, untraceable, and reckless. They would have been foolish not to outlaw it. Several kings and queens before him tried, but the council was always ensnared in political webs." Alice took a breath and ran her hand through her hair. "Well, they didn't take it well and started to oppose the council and the law, making it dangerous for all mythical beings. So, he made a hard decision and ordered the execution of all sorcerers."

I narrowed my eyebrows slightly. "It is outrageous to eliminate an entire race because of their abilities."

Alice shrugged her shoulders. "Yeah, it is. There's nothing that can be done now that they're all gone." Her eyes scanned me. "Just please don't use any magic while we're out; it will draw too much attention. The last thing you want is to attract attention, especially with an illegal drug in your system."

Later that night, I found myself an hour away from the city, looking up at the bright neon sign that read, "The Hexing Bar." A smile spread across my lips as Alice and her friend Frank joined me.

"I've set up your ID. If anyone asks, you're just visiting." She says quickly.

I felt the air shift around her as she handed me my fake Myth ID. She seemed different, almost angry. I took it quickly and followed them inside. Stepping into The Hexing Bar felt like entering a realm brimming with possibility. The pulsating bass echoed through my entire being, syncing seamlessly with the vibrant energy of the crowd. Streaks of colored lights flickered and danced across the room, casting a mesmerizing glow that brought the lively atmosphere to life. The air buzzed with an intoxicating mix of excitement and adrenaline, tinged with the enticing scents of spiced cocktails and sweet, enchanting brews. All around me, Myths blended effortlessly into the dimly lit space, their laughter and animated chatter creating a captivating melody. Witches in flowing robes tilted back shimmering drinks that glimmered like starlight, while a diverse gathering of creatures—elves, shifters, and even a few bold goblins—mingled with an air of camaraderie. The bar pulsed with life like a heartbeat, a primeval rhythm that beckoned me deeper.

As I wove my way toward the bar, I was struck by the enchanting decor. Crystal chandeliers hung like ethereal jewels above, casting dancing prisms of light across the room, while dynamic murals on the walls transformed gracefully, depicting breathtaking landscapes rich with magic. A grand stage loomed at the back, where performers wove musical spells with their enchanting voices, captivating the crowd and elevating the atmosphere to dizzying heights. Every step drew me further into the vibrant scene, the raw energy electrifying my senses. My heart raced with excitement as I caught sight of my reflection in a nearby mirror—my newly vibrant features glowing with an irresistible allure, each pulse of my red-tinged veins a thrilling reminder of the power I held within. The anticipation of forging connections, of truly belonging, bubbled just beneath the surface.

The bartender, an intriguing figure with striking green eyes and elegant, pointed ears, met my gaze and flashed a knowing smile. With fluid motions, he mixed drinks that shimmered with enchantments, each swirl of color promising to ignite the spirit and enhance the adventure. Conversations swirled around me, playful laughter and teasing remarks weaving their way through the air, each echo tugging at my desire to dive deeper into this magical realm. At that moment, I was enveloped in a sense of belonging that I had never known before. Under the neon lights and amidst the vibrant symphony of life, I glimpsed what it truly meant to be part of something extraordinary—a world where my human origins faded into the background, and the allure of adventure wrapped around me like a warm embrace, inviting me to explore its limitless horizons.

Looking back at Alice and Frank, I could see Alice's eyes fixed on me as if she were making sure I didn't mess up. Sighing softly, I made my way through the crowd of patrons. My senses were heightened by the intoxicating mix of aromas from the potions and concoctions being brewed behind the counter. The bartender glanced up at me and smiled softly as he shook a drink before pouring it.

“What will it be tonight?” he asked.

“I’m not sure. Can you recommend something for me?” I replied, glancing back to see that Alice and Frank had abandoned me to find a table further back, but Alice's gaze was still glued to me.

“Well, would you like something strong? Something sweet? Or something to truly captivate your feelings?” he inquired.

“Uh, how about all of the above?” I suggested.

With a soft smirk, he nodded. “One special potion it is.”

I watched eagerly as the bartender began mixing various liquids, executing impressive flips with the cups. Finally, he presented me with a bright pinkish-purple drink, topped with shimmering sparkles of magic.

“Now, be sure to take this one slowly. This is my special drink. If you down it too quickly, your world will start spinning within minutes.” He flashed me a wink as I handed him my card.

As I made my way over to Alice, I found myself momentarily lost in thought, mulling over my drink choice, when I accidentally bumped into someone. I glanced up to see a tall man, his sharp features illuminated by the flickering light. He had dark hair that fell just above his striking yellow eyes, and a hint of mischief played on his lips. Our collision sent his drink wobbling, but he managed to catch it just in time, glancing down at me with an amused expression.

“Careful there clumsy,” he teased, his voice smooth like a fine whiskey.

My heart raced a little at the playful tone, and I couldn’t help but smile back. “I guess I was too busy admiring the potions to watch where I was going,” I replied, trying to match his lighthearted energy.

He chuckled, the sound warm and inviting. “You’re not the only one. This place has a way of drawing you in, doesn’t it? I’m Rick, by the way.”

“Nice to meet you, Rick. I’m… well, just the world’s worst navigator,” I said, letting out a small laugh.

Rick let out a light chuckle as he glanced down. I could feel his eyes tracing over my skin, catching sight of a light red glow from my veins as I, too, felt a small surge of power. His eyebrows narrowed slightly—not out of anger, but confusion. I took a step back, recalling Alice's warning about sorceresses.

“Must be the potion; he made it a bit strong,” I said, taking deep breaths to calm myself.

“Must be. A witch, I take it?” he asked. “When did you come into town? I assume you’re just visiting, as I’ve never seen you here before.”

For someone with charm, he certainly switched it off quickly. “I live an hour from here. My friends are attending Myth University,” I replied, my tone tinged with bitterness.

He gave a small nod, glancing around the bar before looking back at me. "Is that right? Surprising for a witch to be in a town full of humans," he said, raising an eyebrow slightly.

I quickly looked down, trying to think of what to say. "Yes, well, my parents were human. That being said, I never got to use my powers much. You could say I'm still new to all this—just discovering that I'm a witch," I babbled.

"Makes sense. I’ve heard of that before: a past bloodline becoming a Myth. Your parents must have been visited and given the choice to block your powers until you decided to unlock them," he said softly, almost staring at me to make sure I wasn't lying.

I felt a mix of vulnerability and defiance wash over me at his words. Was he judging me, or was there a hint of understanding in his gaze? “It’s not as simple as it sounds,” I said, lifting my chin. “Discovering a part of yourself that you never knew existed can be overwhelming.”

Crossing his arms as if he were contemplating my words. “Overwhelming can also be exciting. There’s a whole world of magic out there, you know. Have you had any experiences since you found out?”

I shrugged, avoiding his intense stare. “A few small things. Objects moving on their own, a flicker of light when I’m emotional… nothing too impressive. Still, it's enough to make me question everything I thought I knew about myself.”

He smiled gently, the charm resurfacing. “That’s a start. A flicker is still magic. Well, Miss World's Worst Navigator, I must get back to my group before they come looking for me. I hope to see you again around here.”

Moving around Rick, I quickly made my way to the side of the bar, taking a deep breath as my heart raced. That was too close. Feeling a hand grip my shoulder, I turned quickly to see an unhappy Alice staring at me. I gave her a bright smile, hoping to convey an 'I'm sorry' for not being quicker to get drinks.

"I swear, I can't take you anywhere without attracting the wrong attention. Do you have any idea who you were just talking to?" she asked.

"Rick? I don’t know, just some cute-looking guy. Why, who is he?" I replied, smirking as I remembered his bright yellow eyes.

"Only the most powerful vampire-werewolf hybrid there is. Also, he is the King of the Myths," Alice said, arching both eyebrows. "I didn’t think he would come here; there are much better places for someone like him to go than this rundown club."

"So he’s a king? He didn’t introduce himself as such," I defended, leaning against the wall and sipping my drink.

"He doesn’t have to; everyone knows who he is!" she snapped. "Did you not pay attention to our history lesson when I gave it to you two years ago?"

"I paid attention, somewhat." I glanced around the bar and spotted him sitting at a round table, talking with a group of men. It suddenly dawned on me. "Wait, he owns the Luxe Hotels. I remember now; my company helped design some of his lobbies and penthouses."

"And you just happened to forget what he looked like?" Alice asked incredulously.

"It’s not like we ever saw him; only the boss did. He never came into the shop or to the sites. One of his workers or assistants came by to view everything."

"It doesn't matter we have to leave." She says grabbing my hand and pulling me towards the table to grab Frank.

"Wait, Alice," I pull my hand free from her. "What is the big deal? I have powers. I'm not human in here."

"Wrong! Freya, you are human. You just took something very illegal to give you fake powers, and now you run into the most high archy Myth there is. Suppose he catches on to you, especially with you having sorcery powers. He could have you arrested or worse killed. Not only that have me arrested or killed for brewing the potion and breaking the law." She hissed.

Sighing in defeat, she was right. "You're right, this was a mistake. You guys stay here, I'll head out."

Moving around her I grabbed my jacket from the table and headed out of the bar. Storming out of the Hexing Bar, I felt a wave of anger and sadness wash over me. The night had started with carefree laughter and excitement, but now it felt tainted by the weight of Alice’s warning and the knowledge of who Rick truly was. As I walked down the dimly lit street, my frustration simmered just beneath the surface, begging for an outlet.

With each step, I clenched my fists, feeling the new energy of my sorcerous powers buzzing in my veins. The street was deserted, the night air thick with tension. I took a deep breath, letting the energy flow through me as I prepared to release some of the pent-up frustration. With each deep inhalation, I could sense the crackle of magic weaving through the cool night air, mingling with the lingering shadows around me. I focused on the distant sound of rustling leaves, an echo of the chaos that had brought me to this moment. My heart raced, not out of fear, but from the thrill of newfound strength coursing within me.

The street lamps flickered eerily, their lights trembling as if they sensed my unsettling agitation, shuddering in time with my racing heartbeat. This moment felt heavy, charged with something I didn't fully understand—my frustration teetering on the edge of uncontrollable energy. I found myself frozen in the middle of the street, every nerve ending tingling with a mix of fear and adrenaline. The energy hummed within me, coiling tighter and tighter, and I could feel it buzzing beneath the surface—a force that was all-consuming. Ghostly images flashed in my mind: the injustices that had cut deep, the voices that had suppressed me, and the anger that bubbled just out of reach. I felt it surge, wild and untamed, threatening to break free at any moment.

“Enough!” I shouted, my voice trembling, echoing against the stone walls as if pleading for the darkness to hear me. But as the last word escaped my lips, the tension erupted, a chaotic pulse of energy bursting outward, and I recoiled in horror—terrified of what I had unleashed. The pulse of energy rippled through the air, and for an instant, I felt like I was both powerful and utterly powerless. The shock of it overwhelmed my senses, and the world began to spin. Panic clawed at my chest as the realization set in—I could not control this force that had been brought upon me. My vision blurred, and the street around me warped and faded into a haze of shadows.

Before I could gather my thoughts or take a step back, darkness enveloped me. The last thing I felt was the cool pavement beneath my knees as I succumbed to the dizzying wave that crashed over me. When I came to, the night felt different, quieter, as if the world had hushed to witness my fall. Blinking with confusion, I struggled to sit up, my body heavier than I remembered. That's when I heard footsteps approaching, steady and quickly.

“Bring the car around!” Rick's voice pierced the silence, filled with concern and urgency. He knelt beside me, his expression riddled with worry. Relief washed over me for a moment, but it quickly turned to embarrassment as I realized the damage I might have caused.

“What happened?” he asked, his hands gently probing my shoulders, searching for answers in my eyes.

“I… I don’t know,” I stammered, shaking, the remnants of the energy still crackling faintly in the air around us. “I just—I lost control. It felt so overwhelming. I didn’t mean to…”

Rick’s brow furrowed, a mix of surprise and understanding flashing across his face. “It’s okay. You’re safe now,” he assured me, but I could see the fear lurking just beneath the surface of his calm demeanor. “Let’s get you up.”

I leaned against him, my body trembling and frustrated by my inability to walk. Rick's grip was steady and firm as he effortlessly lifted me into his arms. It felt secure, yet an undeniable heat radiated from his body, a testament to his strength.

“Hang on tight,” he instructed, his voice low and authoritative. The way he held me was both protective and unyielding, filling me with a strange mix of comfort and vulnerability.

As we approached his sleek car, the driver quickly opened the door. A look of concern briefly crossed his face before he stepped aside. Rick carefully settled me in the plush leather seat, his hands lingering just a moment longer than necessary.

“You’ll be alright,” he reassured me, the steel in his voice banishing any lingering doubts.

Both the engine and the tension thrummed as the driver sped off toward what I assumed was his home. Looking out at the passing scenery, my heart raced not just from fear, but also from the formidable presence of the man beside me. In the refined sanctuary of his home, Rick guided me inside with an air of unshakeable confidence. “Let’s get you looked after,” he said, his tone brooking no argument as he led me to a lavishly furnished room. It was clear that he was in control here, and I would have to trust his judgment. The warmth of the fireplace flickered softly, casting a protective glow around us.

“Just rest for now,” he ordered gently, though there was an unmistakable authority in his voice that made it clear he wasn't in the mood to take any objections.

Sensing my exhaustion, he moved to fetch a blanket, returning to wrap it around me with a tenderness that contradicted his dominant demeanor—a reminder that strength could also be kind. I looked up at him, feeling a surge of both safety and something deeper stirring within me as Rick remained steadfast by my side. As Rick led me into a spacious bedroom, I took a moment to absorb the exquisite decor that adorned the room. The plush bedding was accented with rich fabrics and intricate details, suggesting it was reserved for guests—surely a king wouldn’t bring me to his personal sanctuary. Rick pulled back the silken covers, exposing the inviting bed, and stepped aside, nodding for me to take a seat on the edge. Kneeling before me, he gently began to slip off my shoes. I hesitated, a mix of surprise and uncertainty washing over me as I tilted my head slightly. Isn’t this man a king? My eyes widened at the thought of such an intimate gesture.

“What are you doing?” I asked, shifting nervously as he continued his task.

“You can’t sleep with your shoes on, and I don’t want your dirty shoes in my bed,” he explained casually, his voice firm yet gentle.

As he worked, I felt his hand press softly against the back of my calf, preventing my leg from moving in protest. The touch was both surprising and strangely comforting, adding to the unusual atmosphere of the moment. As I felt his fingers against my skin, an unexpected warmth spread through me, mingling uneasily with my nerves. The king's gentle insistence was a clear signal of his authority—he was taking charge, and I had little choice but to comply. Despite the intimate nature of the moment, there was something undeniably commanding in the way he approached me. With a firm yet careful grip, Rick removed my shoes, revealing my bare feet. The plush carpet beneath me felt soft and luxurious, a stark contrast to the tension brewing in the air. The grandeur of the room, filled with opulent furnishings and elegantly draped curtains, pressed in around us, enhancing the sense of intimacy—and power—of the moment.

“Are you always this attentive?” I ventured, attempting to break the intensity that hung between us.

He paused for just a moment, a knowing smile playing on his lips, the hint of mischief evident in his eyes. “Only when it counts,” he replied, his tone low and assertive. The way he spoke carried weight, making it clear that I was in his domain.

Rick stood tall, his presence commanding as he took a step back from me. He moved with a grace that betrayed his royal status, and I couldn’t help but admire the confidence that radiated from him. After a brief moment of silence, he began to prepare for bed, unbuttoning his shirt with deliberate ease, and revealing a chiseled torso. My breath caught in my throat caught between surprise and an undeniable attraction. He slipped into a pair of fitted sleep pants, his movements fluid and purposeful. As he turned back to face me, I noticed the way his eyes held a smoldering intensity, as if he were imperiously assessing me.

“Get comfortable,” he commanded, his voice deep and sure. “You need to rest. In the morning I'll have food made for you I'm sure after your little outburst you need to replenish."

I nodded, a rush of nervous anticipation surging through me as I complied. As I settled into the soft embrace of the blankets, my heart raced when Rick moved to the other side of the bed. The mattress dipped slightly under his weight, and a shiver ran down my spine as he lay down beside me. The warmth radiating from him was both comforting and bewildering, like standing too close to an open flame. He turned onto his side, propping his head up on one arm, his intense gaze locked onto mine.

“You’re safe here,” he said, his voice deeper and more soothing than I was prepared for, yet the dominance in his tone settled like a stone in my stomach. “Just relax and let yourself sleep.”

I felt a wave of anxiety crash over me, filling the space between us like an electric current. The idea of sharing a bed with him sent my mind spiraling—was this really happening? My instincts screamed for caution, yet there was an undeniable pull that kept me from moving away. I took a shaky breath, my pulse loud in my ears as I tried to let the tension fade under the almost overwhelming weight of his presence. I closed my eyes, attempting to surrender to the moment, but doubt lingered stubbornly at the edges of my thoughts. Despite my determination to resist the encroaching sleep and my desire to find a more suitable place to rest, the allure of the cozy bed became irresistible. The soft, plush blankets wrapped around me like a warm embrace, and the gentle pillows cradled my head perfectly. Each moment that passed made it harder to keep my eyes open, as the soothing rhythm of my breathing and the tranquil atmosphere of the dimly lit room lured me into a state of blissful slumber.