The Flaming Star Codex

The world shifted and changed around them as Lucian carried Ember to a new realm. His realm. They were no longer in the Mindscape.

The air itself felt owned.

Lucian carried Ember to her new chambers. A servant locked the door behind him. He then gently put her down.
"Welcome home." He said. His voice was calm and smooth.

Ember tried shoving him away, slapping him, anything to put distance between them.
"He'll come for me. You're a dead man." She threatened. Ember lit her hands on fire. "Come closer and you'll be ash!"

Lucian smiled. "I know you're upset. That is to be expected." He waved his hand and Ember's fire turned to water. It hit the floor with a wet splash. "I can make my own reality, love." He said sweetly.

There was a pause. His last word sounded like nails on a chalkboard. Ember's hand lashed out and made contact with his face. A hard slap!

"Don't EVER call me that again!" She shrieked.

His cheek stung, but only for a moment.

Normally, that wouldn't go unpunished, but Ember was not a normal woman. She was something more. Right now she was like a trapped animal in an unfamiliar new home, Lucian understood that. All she needed was time and space to get to used to her new, better, life with him.

Lucian's gaze turned back to her. No anger in his eyes, only a calm, steady gaze.

"I'll let you get acquainted tonight. The servants will help you with anything you need, just ask them." He gave a warm smile before turning on his heel and leaving the room.

Ember didn't move long after the door shut with a soft click. The room was quiet but her mind was loud with racing thoughts.

The servants, the lavish room. This didn't fool her. She was a prisoner.

Ember went up to the large windows. She tried them. Locked. She lit a fire in her palm and threw a fireball at the lock. It went out with a poof. The lock was as pristine. Untouched.

Magically sealed in.

Ember began pacing slowly. This was his realm. His rules. His control. But not her will.

There was a light tap on the door.

"Madam, are you hungry? I have some refreshments for you." The muffled voice of a young woman came through the door.

Ember's gaze shot to the door.

"No. I don't want anything that monster offers!" She shot back. Even if it's food.

That thought was followed by another, more dire thought. Would she starve here?

Ember took a deep breath and let it out. If it meant Kymil would know she was loyal to the end.... so be it.