Page 20 of Heatbound Hearts

But, despite my fascination with the magical world around me, a sudden wave of sadness washes over me. I try to hide it, but I can feel my smile faltering. The realization that I'll never be able to manipulate energy or cast spells like Zyx and the others hits me hard. It's a stark reminder of how different I am in this world.

Zyx's silver eyes lock onto mine, and I know he's sensed the shift in my mood. His wings twitch slightly, and he moves closer, his presence warm and comforting.

"Bronwyn," he says softly, his deep voice sending a shiver down my spine. "I can see you're disappointed about not having magic yourself."

I nod, unable to deny it. "It's just... everything here is so incredible. I wish I could be a part of it in that way."

Zyx's expression softens, and he reaches out, his hand hovering near mine. "Sometimes having magic isn't all it's cracked up to be," he says, a hint of humor in his voice. "It comes with its own set of problems and responsibilities."

I raise an eyebrow, intrigued by this perspective.

"But more importantly," he continues, his gaze intensifying, "if there's anything you want to do - any magical task or experience you'd like to have - I can do it for you. Anytime."

His words wrap around me like a warm blanket, and I feel a rush of emotion. It's not just the offer itself, but the sincerity behind it. The genuine desire to make me feel included, to share his world with me.

A smile spreads across my face, reaching my eyes this time. "Really?" I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

Zyx nods, his own smile mirroring mine. "Really. Whatever you need, whatever you want to see or experience - I'm here."

The connection between us deepens in that moment. It's not just about magic anymore; it's about understanding, support,and a growing bond that I can't quite explain. As I look into Zyx's eyes, I feel a warmth spreading through my chest, a sense of belonging I haven't felt in years.

And I am so happy I fell through that portal. Because it brought me to the one thing I thought I'd never know.

Peace.

11

ZYX

Iscan the horizon, my senses on high alert as we traverse the land bridge of Terramyst. The air shimmers with the bioluminescent glow of the lumini, their light dancing across the landscape. Tidecallers move gracefully through nearby streams, their forms fluid and ethereal. Lithomorphs blend seamlessly with the rocky outcroppings, their presence barely discernible to the untrained eye.

The beastkin are all needed in their own right. But they are also dangerous. And here, where there is little land and not enough room to escape, I recognize it for what it is.

A perfect spot to attack.

A low growl rumbles through the air. My wings twitch, ready for action. "Stay close," I command.

The undergrowth rustles, and a massive, fanged beast emerges, its eyes gleaming with predatory intent. Two more flank it, their muscular bodies coiled for attack.

"Fuck," I mutter, stepping forward. My body shifts instinctively, positioning itself between the threat and my companions. My wings spread wide, creating a protective barrier.

"Bronwyn, behind me," I growl, reaching back to guide her to safety. Her warmth against my back sends a jolt through me, sharpening my focus.

The lead beast lunges. I duck, my claws extending from my fingertips as I swipe at its exposed flank. It yowls in pain, retreating a few steps.

"Kairos, Naia, use your magic. Create a distraction," I bark, never taking my eyes off the circling predators.

The air crackles with energy as Kairos and Naia summon their newfound powers. Flashes of light burst around us, momentarily disorienting the beasts.

I seize the opportunity, launching myself at the nearest beast. We tumble to the ground, a tangle of fur, wings, and claws. Its hot breath washes over me as I grapple with its massive form.

"Zyx!" Bronwyn's voice cuts through the chaos, laced with concern.

I twist, pinning the creature beneath me. "Stay back!" I shout, driving my fist into its jaw. The creature goes limp, and I spring to my feet, ready to face the next threat.

Kairos and Naia subdued the others, so, before the sounds of our fight can draw too much attention, I usher us to keep going. But as I lead our group through the treacherous terrain, my senses stay on high alert. The path narrows, winding between jagged rocks and steep drop-offs. My wings twitch, ready to catch anyone who might stumble.

"Watch your step here," I warn, eyeing a particularly unstable section of ground. "The earth's unstable."

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