CHAPTER 16
Zarreth
I tuck my wings and dive straight down while throwing a massive ball of fire at a faraway target. Right before hitting the ground, I pull up and shoot back into the sky.
My gaze drifts toward the distant ridge, where the rift eats at the mountain.
The black stone around it is cracked and flaking to ash, with a faint greenish-white glow seeping from it.
Even from here, I can smell the rot wafting from it.
The Dark Realm has always been harsh, but not like that. I push the thought aside. Not now.
Little voices hoot and holler while I spin in the air, cutting tight circles above them. A fire ring flares open, and I dive straight through it, landing beside the little horde. My boots barely touch the ground before they swarm me.
“How fast can you go?”
“Will you bring me flying?”
“Can you teach me how to throw fire?”
“Ah-ah, did you break formation, young soldiers?” I call out, my voice booming over their chatter, cutting through their excitement.
“Where’s your discipline?” I ask, hiding the humor in my voice.
I forgot how much I loved working with the young.
“You gave me your word you would try your best if I demonstrated flying for you. One thing a soldier never does is break their word.”
As my little soldiers form two lines, I let my gaze flick to Frankie. She’s standing not far away with her own energetic group, excitement radiating off their little bodies. I’m happy she decided to join me after sitting in the library for hours. They love her.
She pulls a little demon aside. “You’re doing so well, but don’t forget to breathe.
” She puts her hands over his and shows him how to properly hold the knife.
“Watch as I demonstrate.” Her body is fluid and precise as she slips into position and throws the knife, hitting the mark dead center.
The students, including mine, squeal in excitement.
“Did you see that?”
“Holy crap.”
I can’t stop the grin that spreads across my face when she turns to the student next to her. “You got this! Remember, you’re a lightning bolt! Quick and sharp!” She’s absolutely captivating, her laughter spreading as she makes each and every one of them feel invincible.
“Perfect formation,” I say, redirecting my attention to my own students.
They puff out their chests, hands clasped behind their backs.
I walk back and forth, inspecting each one as they stare straight ahead.
I can hear their little hearts thrumming as they stand as still as possible.
“The demon standing across from you is your partner. I want you all to spread out so you don’t hit one another as we practice the takedowns we went over earlier today. ”
“Why do we have to practice takedowns? Can’t we just use our magic?”
“Not everyone will develop magic, and even if you do, it’s not always reliable. Magic can be subdued, weapons can be taken away, but you will always have your body. It’s your most valuable weapon, so we must treat it like one, and practice.”
Training must’ve wrapped up on the other end of the grounds because a few demons have gathered to watch Frankie. I don’t like it.
“Alright, take a break,” I call over my shoulder as I hurry toward them.
“You’ve got quick hands, Realm Eater. Show me how fast they really are.”
Frankie looks him up and down and smiles. “You want to spar?”
“Just a friendly round. I’ll even go easy on you.”
I don’t fucking think so. I step between them. “Why don’t you spar with me instead?”
Frankie tugs on my arm, but I don’t break eye contact with the warrior. “What are you doing? I want to do this.”
The demon steps back, shaking his head. His eyes shift to my mate. “I guess you're more fragile than I thought.”
Once the demon takes a step back, I relax and turn to Frankie. She’s pissed. Her nostrils are flaring, eyes narrowed at me.
Her chin lifts. “I’m doing this, so you can either watch or go away.”
Shit! I fucked up, but I don’t care. I won’t stand here and let a seasoned warrior fight my mate.
A few chuckles come from the onlookers. The demon backs away. “Sorry, sweetheart. It’s not worth it. I withdraw.”
“Good.” Fucker challenges a female to a fight. You better work on your warriors, Macen.
The small crowd clears. I reach for Frankie, but she pulls back. “I’m sorry, Melita, but—”
“But nothing. I’m an adult. I wanted to spar with someone other than you and Ronin. When will you learn that you can’t protect me from everything?”
“I can try.” It’s a privilege to protect her, and I don’t take that lightly. Tears are starting to form in her eyes. I’m such an asshole.
“Maybe try trusting me instead,” she says, walking away.
Little voices come from behind me. “Where’s she going?”
I pinch the bridge of my nose and look down at the child she helped with the throwing knives. “I think I fucked up.”
He reaches up and pats me on the lower back. “Then go make it better. We like her.”
Chuckling, I ruffle his hair. “I do too, buddy.”