Page 92 of Sealed By Fire (The Nature Hunters Academy 2)

“It was our choice,” Ra said firmly. “But he is the one who created the bond.”

“We will discuss it as soon as we are done.” Aviur returned his focus to Shelly. “I will attempt to make things clearer. But we cannot draw this out. I believe that you and Ra are not the only ones who need to solidify your bonds. Elias and Tara’s power, along with Miles and Josie’s, will be needed.”

Shelly saluted him and said, “The few, the proud, the bonded.”

“Oh, she’s awesome,” Liam said grinning. “You two did well.” His smile fell as his eyes grew distant.

Tara didn’t have to be a rocket scientist to know he was thinking about Gabby. She’d continually seen that glassy-eyed stare in his eyes since he’d met her.

“To continue,” Aviur said, “what part didn’t you understand?”

“The part where you said they aren’t in any realm connected to earth by light,” Shelly answered.

“There is only one realm that is not connected by light,” Aviur said. “The underworld.”

Shelly gave a thumbs-up. “Totally get that. No warm fuzzies in that place. So, the other realms?” she prompted.

“Each elemental has a realm. They are connected to the human realm by our light.”

“Okay, so this Dhara chick and Beaumont dude are in hell or dead?” she asked.

“Yes.”

“But if they were dead, we would have felt it,” Nasima added. “All of nature would have felt it.”

“So they’re in the underworld?” Shelly asked as her voice rose a bit. “Gah, I do not envy them. That place is not cool. Not cool at all.”

“It’s hell,” Liam added, his eyes no longer glossy. “Okay, Ra, she’s hot, but maybe not too bright.”

Shelly’s eyes sharpened as she glared at Liam. “I don’t know you, but that does not mean I won’t hire someone to take you out.”

“She’s as bloodthirsty as you, Buffalo,” Liam chuckled.

“Or you just drive a person to commit murder,” Shelly offered.

“That one.” Tara pointed at her BFFF. “It’s definitely that one.”

“I apologize,” Ra said as he stood. His movements were so controlled and smooth for someone so large. He pulled Shelly up beside him. “Can we please summarize the highlights so Shelly and I can speak with King Aviur? Then Shelly needs to rest. She has been through much.”

“Of course,” Terrick said. “You both must be exhausted.”

“The earth's temperature is dropping,” Nasima said. “I think the best thing we can do is target the major cities with fire elementals.”

Aviur nodded. “The major power plants, towers for satellites, and water. We can keep these things from freezing, and, hopefully, keep the world from losing everything in a matter of weeks. It will buy us some time.”

“King Aviur,” Miles said. “If I might, I recommend you utilize your soul-bonded warrior. There are still some among your ranks of elementalists.”

Aviur nodded. “That is wise. We will have to get used to utilizing the soul-bonded power again. It’s been so long.”

“The heads of Crimson Academy have already called in your warriors,” Terrick said.

Aviur nodded. “When I’m finished with Ra and Shelly, I will go to the academy and speak with them.”

“We will address our respective academies,” Nasima said as she looked at Kairi.

The water queen nodded then said to Miles and Josie. “Will you please return to Hydro Academy when you are finished speaking with Elias and Tara? Your insight will be valuable as we explain things to Marcus, Serena, and the hydro warriors.”

“Of course,” Josie said.

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