Water's Reflection

By Alex E. Carey

The tides change for Kira as her life becomes not only more dangerous but more confusing. She learns she might not be fully human and must discover more about her lineage to understand herself and her powers. She confronts her father and her past and learns they have more in common than she ever knew. Meanwhile her powers become more intense, while her visions become more vivid and terrifying. With the help of family and old friends, Kira’s powers grow, and she’s able to save herself, but at a tremendous personal cost.
Her boyfriend Pyre, a fire demon, questions and confronts his own past. While he starts to slowly forgive himself for past crimes with the help of Kira and his family, Kira and friends grow concerned over unexplained changes in his behavior. As the present seems brighter and the future more promising, everything he’s worked for is threatened by a new foe. To save her, he sacrifices himself and their future. Protecting the girl he loves has never been harder.
Their friend Lowell, a wolf demon also known as Ulric, finds happiness again with the help of his girlfriend Lur. However, he can’t be completely hers until he moves on and forgives himself for what happened to Cadel, the love of his life from his past. Lur must help him figure it out or lose him forever to his dead fiancé. While she struggles to help him deal with his past, she must resolve her own issues with being a human dating a demon, and decide if she can accept the risks and consequences involved.
Kira’s Elemental story continues with the present slowly unraveling for Kira and her friends. The past must assist before time runs out and the present is completely lost. Will they succeed in saving their future or will they drown in Water's Reflection?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Alex E. Carey
• Release date: Dec 11, 2015
• ISBN: 9780991029198

Book preview

Water’s Reflection

An Elemental Series Novel

Alex E. Carey

Published by Alex E. Carey at Smashwords

Copyright 2015 by Alex E. Carey

Smashwords Edition

Discover other titles by

Alex E. Carey at Smashwords.com

Fire’s Love, Book 1 of the Elemental Series

Earth’s Embrace, Book 2 of the Elemental Series

EARTH’S EMBRACE is a work of fiction. Apart from the actual historical events and locales that figure in the narrative, all names, characters and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not intended to be a true or accurate depiction of any actual persons, living or dead, or any actual locales or events.

All rights reserved. This ebook is the copyrighted property of the author, and may not be reproduced, copied and distributed for commercial or non-commercial purposes. If you enjoyed this book, please encourage your friends to buy their own copy at Smashwords.com or other retailers where available. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Photo Credits:

License purchased for the following images at Adobe Stock Photos

Drawing Pad, photo by Pixelrobot; Seashells on Sand, photo by Catwoman; Shark fin, photo by Storm

Standard License purchased for the following images at FreeDigitalPhotos.Net

Shell Texture Background, photo by FrameAngel

Full Moon Stock Photo, photo by Exsodus

Alex E. Carey - Smashwords ebook edition/December 2015

First Edition

Ebook edition ISBN: 978-0-9910291-9-8

This book is available in print at most online retailers and certain bookstores near you.

Paperback edition ISBN: 978-0-9910291-7-4

Hardcover edition ISBN: 978-0-9910291-8-1

Cover Design by Alex E. Carey and Dee Ferris

Author Contact - [e-mail]

Table of Contents

Title Page

Acknowledgements

Chapter 1 - Dream Animation

Chapter 2 - Triggering Effect

Chapter 3 - Finals and Danger Approaching

Chapter 4 - Reliving the Past

Chapter 5 - Confrontations Abound

Chapter 6 - Work and Babies

Chapter 7 - Trapped Indoors

Chapter 8 - Everyone Screams

Chapter 9 - Studying, Singing and Seducing

Chapter 10 - Mother’s Day Weekend

Chapter 11 - Meeting Grandpa

Chapter 12 - Meditating Visions

Chapter 13 - Reflecting and Revealing

Chapter 14 - Dad’s Confession

Chapter 15 - Danger Everywhere

Chapter 16 - Grave Revelations

Chapter 17 - Surprises and Reprisals

Chapter 18 - Poolside Peril

Chapter 19 - Little Crush, Big Nuisance

Chapter 20 - Terrifying Turn of Events

Chapter 21 - Unfortunate Accident

Chapter 22 - Getting Through the Shock

Find Me Online

Fire’s Love

Earth’s Embrace

Watch for Book 4 - Coming Soon

About the Author

Acknowledgements

My list of people to thank grows larger every year. To prevent overlooking anyone, I will keep this list short.

I am grateful to all my family and friends who have been supportive of me and my endeavors. I love all of you.

I appreciate my readers and hope you enjoy Water’s Reflection. Thank you for being fans of the Elemental Series. I am happy to share my stories with you.

To my group of author pals, thank you for your critiques that help make my books a success.

For their assistance and support of my work on Water’s Reflection, I wish to thank specifically:

Dee and Wil Ferris, my mother and brother, for their encouragement, support, ideas, and hard work with every area of the publishing and marketing process.

A world of thanks to my special beta readers and some of my biggest fans. I appreciate your suggestions and encouragement: Randy Ferris, father; Jasmine Ferris, cousin; Kristen Henderson, cousin; Daphne Keys, aunt

My sincere thanks to Brian Carey, my uncle, for his assistance with the martial arts scene.

To the owners and managers of the Moose Cafe, for their support of me and my novels and allowing me to base the book’s restaurant loosely on the Moose Cafe.

Chapter 1

Dream Animation

The roar of the surf beckoned me closer, but I planted my feet in the sand, determined to ignore the ocean’s entreaty. Death almost stole my life in too many past dreams when someone summoned me and I followed them in the naive belief that dreams could do no harm. I didn’t intend to make the same mistake again. My inner voice urged me to retreat, but the view mesmerized me, making it impossible to take my eyes off the water. The inner battle intensified, part of me refusing to move closer, and the other part yearning for the cool splash on my toes. Either I planted my feet too well, or the struggle within pushed and pulled me until my legs anchored in the sand. The waves crashed on the shore, each stretching farther inland than the last, as though crawling toward me since I refused to come to them.

Kira, what’s wrong? Pyre’s voice entered my thoughts.

I’m stuck.

Stuck? How are you stuck?

I’m not sure. Nothing’s holding me, but I can’t move.

Where are you?

I’m standing on a beach watching the ocean.

Why are you there?

I don’t know.

Do you see any other people?

I see no one in front of me or out of the corners of my eyes, but I can’t see if someone’s behind me.

Why can’t you check?

I can’t take my eyes off the ocean.

Why not?

I... I just can’t.

Is the sun rising or setting?

Neither, it’s night. The moon is full, big and bright with a halo, shining overhead in a cloudless starlit sky. The moonbeam is reflecting on the ocean’s surface, a celestial lighthouse pointing in my direction to guide my way.

Must be a stunning scene.

It’s gorgeous. The presence is entrancing. The scent of the fresh sea air is inviting me to taste the salty water. A soft breeze is playing with my hair and whispering the sound of the waves calling my name. The ocean wants me to follow the path of light.

Kira, without taking your eyes off the ocean, walk away.

The waves grew larger and slapped the sand, their pull more insistent.

Oh, the ocean doesn’t appreciate that idea. The musical cadence of the waves is soothing my spirit and luring me to wade into the surf. The tide is coming for me, Pyre.

Kira, you need to distance yourself from the ocean.

But it’s so alluring. Despite my earlier resolution, I decided to step closer and found my feet capable of moving again. My eyes focused on the waves until a dorsal fin rose out of the water to greet me and welcome me into the mysterious depths. The sight gave the effect of a cold splash of water on my face and brought me back to my senses. On second thought, I’m leaving. I pivoted and retreated from the water without looking back.

What’s wrong?

A shark’s in the water.

Are you afraid of sharks?

Only when I’m near them.

Kira, you’re safe in the dream. There’s nothing to fear.

What about being eaten?

I’ll give you that, but to be eaten by a shark, you must go into the water.

I won’t go into the water any time soon, and I want out of this.

But you’re making so much progress.

Pyre, I want out. Now.

Fingers snapped, and the scene disappeared, leaving behind darkness.

You can open your eyes now.

My eyes remained glued shut as I emerged from the dream state. Something soft supporting my head reminded me I began this experiment on the couch in our living room. Once I pried open my eyes, I assured myself I had returned to the same place.

You’ll be groggy, but it won’t last long. Pyre pulled me upright.

When did you learn to do that? The couch swayed, and I rubbed my head.

All telepathic demons can do it.

And you didn’t tell me because?

It hasn’t come up until now. I use it when necessary and not since before I met you.

What do you call it again?

I don’t know the real name, but I call it dream animation. I can ignite dreams in people’s minds; either an entire dream I induce, or one they build from the spark I create.

On Valentine’s Day—

That was different. That dream came from you and you shared it with me, at least that’s probably what happened. I’m still uncertain to be honest.

I leaned my head back and tried to clear my head while Pyre rubbed my temples with his warm hands.

When does the grogginess wear off?

It should soon. Pyre kissed my forehead and handed me a glass of water.

From what? Lowell’s voice next to me caused me to jump and nearly spill the water.

Where’d you come from?! I asked, gripping the glass, my heart pounding in my chest.

The kitchen.

Lowell said nothing more and stared at me as if waiting for something. I scrutinized Pyre for an explanation.

Lowell just got here. I didn’t want to leave your side, so I asked him telepathically to get a glass of water. I nodded my understanding and sipped the water.

Pyre offered no explanation for your condition. What happened to you, Kira? Are you hurt?

I’m not hurt. I’m just dazed.

Did you sleep enough last night? Lowell touched my forehead.

I did. The dream, vision or whatever caused this.

You don’t know what it was? I find it hard to— Realization dawned on his face. Did you do the creepy dream thing to Kira?

She needed to relax. I thought it might help her unwind and figure out how to gain control of her powers. And it’s not creepy.

Did it help? Lowell asked as he pulled over a chair. What did the dream show you?

A view of the ocean enchanted me until a shark fin appeared. I handed the water glass to Lowell, put the pillow against the armrest of the couch and lay down again.

Have you experimented with water yet? Lowell asked.

I’ve tried all the elements, but I end up destroying the room.

The dream might suggest you should practice with water alone and work up to the other elements. Lowell’s face scrunched as he thought.

Maybe.

Did you observe anything helpful while she slept? Lowell turned to Pyre.

Nothing. Pyre shook his head. I still don’t know how Kira activated her powers during her dreams.

Discovering how she did will help her use them when she’s awake.

I’ve only used them during my dreams of Crystal’s attacks. Do I have to wait until I’m attacked again to learn how to access them? I sat up too quickly and my head spun. I shut my eyes and held my palm to my forehead.

No, we’ll find the answer in a safe way. I’ll ask Vitas for suggestions, Lowell said as he left.

I stared at the floor and wrapped my arms around myself.

Kira, what’s on your mind? Pyre crouched in front of me and rubbed my arms.

I’m worried what will happen if I don’t get the hang of this. What if instead of learning to control my powers, they control me and I hurt someone?

That won’t happen. You’ll find a way, and I’ll help you.

But, Pyre—

Kira, the powers are part of you. If you weren’t meant to manage them, you wouldn’t possess the gift. You’re a phoenix and you’ll pull through this. Pyre placed his palm against my cheek and I leaned into his hand.

No, my last name is Phoenix. At least that’s what you said a few months ago.

And as you said, that still makes you a phoenix.

I wish I felt as confident.

What can I say to inspire confidence? He asked. I pretended to ponder for a moment while he studied me.

Not a clue. Try me tomorrow. I grinned at him.

You’re being lazy. He moved to sit near my feet.

The correct term is groggy.

Whatever. He gripped my foot and rubbed, but I jerked it away. What’s wrong?

Nothing, I lied.

You don’t want me to touch your feet? He grabbed my foot and prevented me from pulling it away again.

No, it’s not that.

Miss Kira, are you ticklish on your feet? A sly grin spread across his face.

N-no. I pulled harder.

So you won’t mind if I... His nails tickled as they glided along the bottom of my foot. I kicked to escape, but he gripped my foot tighter and tickled in earnest.

Stop... please... Laughing so hard made breathing difficult.

Then be still. He ceased tickling and resumed massaging my foot. The sensation still tickled but not as much, and then I realized it felt wonderful. The warmth of his hand joined with the precise pressures and movements of his fingers on my foot relaxed me so much I lay back again and uttered a blissful sigh. See, it’s not so bad. He smirked at me.

Still tickles. I peeked at his knowing expression and closed my eyes, content to enjoy the moment.

Chapter 2

Triggering Effect

You need to stay still. I slapped my sketch pad on the bed and stared at Pyre in exasperation.

Pyre agreed to pose for a still life drawing for my final art project. He straddled the seat of my desk chair with his left arm resting on the back of the chair, his right hand on his thigh, and his upper body turned slightly to face me. I sat on my bed, with my supplies spread around me, and admired the view. Posing proved difficult for Pyre and frustrating for both of us.

I’m doing my best, Kira, but staying in one position so long is excruciating. Remember when you posed for Lur’s painting a few months ago, how hard it was to ‘be as a tree’? It’s especially difficult for a fire demon.

Pyre, I’m nearly finished. I do remember how weary and frustrated I felt, but remember how I reacted when I saw the completed painting? You only need to hold still a little longer.

Kir-ra. You’ve been saying that for more than an hour.

We’ve only been working thirty minutes. You should enjoy posing for me without your shirt so why are you complaining?

I’m not complaining about that, but I’m bored sitting here and need to be able to move. Fire demons can’t tolerate being still too long.

So you mentioned, and I understand; and I appreciate your sacrifice.

What is your final art project supposed to be again?

I told you — a still life drawing, anything I want.

And you chose me without my shirt. A smug expression formed on his face.

"No, I chose you. You chose not to wear a shirt."

Well, it is... hot out today.

The breeze from the window blew strands of his hair, inviting me to brush my fingers through it. Pyre’s woodsy rosemary scent floated in the air toward me and soothed my nerves as I deeply inhaled. His eyes held mine as he stretched and stood to face me.

You... My eyes drifted to his bare chest and my breath caught.

What?

Nothing.

My eyes lowered to my sketch pad. You’re always hot. I mused, blocking his telepathic ability to read my thoughts.

What are you thinking? The timbre of his deep voice resonated in my ears, clouding my mind. Muscles flexed with power in a confident stride as he prowled toward his prey.

Nothing. I hid behind my sketch pad to conceal the blush on my face.

Ooh, but you are. He stood close and lifted my chin. My vision wandered up his muscled abdomen and chest, past his chiseled jaw and smooth lips to his eyes, dark warm pools that gazed into my own. I imagined I stared at the ocean again as he reeled me into his net. My hands grasped his thighs, simply to deal with the dizziness in my head I assured myself. Tell me. Warm hands cradled both sides of my chin as his face lowered gradually closer to mine. His lips paused and hovered just short of touching my own. My breath exhaled in a short burst of anticipation as my lips reached for his. What are you thinking? Warm breath whispered against my skin as those eyes held mine captive, willing me to share my thoughts. A knock at the door lifted the spell.

Saved. My mother warned me never to play with fire, but she didn’t warn me about fire demons.

You’re not welcome here! Pyre yelled. Lowell entered the bedroom, taking in the scene with raised eyebrows. I stood while I had the chance and gathered my supplies, along with my wits.

But, Pyre, I thought we shared something special. Lowell wrapped an arm around Pyre’s neck. Pyre stiffened, resembling a sculpture.

Get away from me.

But I thought you loved me, Pyre.

I do not love you. Lowell made a heartbroken face, wiped away an imaginary tear and leaned his head on Pyre’s shoulder.

Ooh, stay in that position. This’ll make a splendid sketch. I picked up my book and pretended to draw.

Should I take off my shirt too? Lowell pulled at the bottom of his shirt as he wiggled and danced.

I’m done with both of you. Pyre yanked his shirt over his head.

We’re just teasing you, I said.

Who’s teasing? Lowell asked and wiggled his eyebrows. Pyre stepped behind me and glared at Lowell. Lowell shrugged and released his shirt. Are you ready for training?

I’m not going anywhere with you. Pyre huffed, stuck out his chin and crossed his arms.

I asked Kira, not you. She needs to get a handle over her powers.

How am I supposed to know you’re asking her when you’re focused on me?

Do you expect an answer or is that a rhetorical question? Lowell asked.

Kira, let’s go train your powers. We’ll leave the wolf here. Pyre patted me on the shoulder and went to the kitchen.

Assuming I can manage my powers. I put my art supplies away.

Kira, you can do it. Why do you still doubt yourself? Lowell asked.

What if I can only use them during an attack?

That’s why we’re training. We need to discover your trigger.

Trigger? What am I? A gun?

Yes, in a sense. Lowell leaned against the door and faced me. Horror crept through my mind and along my spine to paralyze my body. Icy tingles spread down my arms to my fingertips and my heartbeat drummed in my ears. The suggestion I might be a weapon had been my biggest fear since I realized I had powers. He didn’t notice my facial expression and continued to explain. When I met with Vitas, he informed me that humans with powers possess a trigger. I gaped at him, which he mistook for confusion. The trigger is the key to making your powers work the way you want, when you want. Usually the trigger is emotional, so all we need to do is recreate the emotions the dreams evoked. I rapidly shook my head. It’ll be much safer with us. I shook my head again. You’re not scared, are you? He reached out his hand, but I eyed it as I would a snake and gasped for air. Pyre, Kira’s having a panic attack.

You idiot. Pyre pushed past him. What did you do?

I explained how we’ll train her powers.

You leave my Kira alone. Pyre pulled me into a hug.

Kira, if you don’t want to reenact the circumstances, we can try something else, Lowell said.

Wait a minute. Please tell me you didn’t suggest recreating what she endured in her dreams. He pulled me to the chair and sat me in it, pushing my head between my knees.

It’s the only time we’re aware of that her powers activated.

We are not putting her through it again. Pyre released me and stomped over to Lowell, yelling in his face.

While they argued, I shifted my feet, closed my eyes and focused on breathing in and out the way Pyre taught me. Once I composed myself, I stood and glowered at them, unable to abide their yelling any longer.

Stop arguing. They didn’t listen. Stop it! Wind shattered the window, swirling glass shards around us. Pyre wrapped his arms around me and covered my face as he hid his own face in my hair. Once the wind died, Pyre released me somewhat.

Are you okay? He asked.

Yes, are you?

I’m all right. Lowell?

I’m fine, and I believe we found her trigger. Lowell wiped off his sleeves.

Yea, just upset her. Pyre brushed my hair out of my face. I gazed apprehensively at the window and back at Pyre. Let’s move to the living room and sit on the couch. Pyre picked me up into his arms.

I can walk.

Yes, but it would be best if I carried you. Pyre needed to take care of me when he worried, which always included carrying me, so I didn’t argue. He leaned his cheek against my hair and carried me with a fluid motion that felt like floating through water. I frowned at the reminder of the dream animation.

I’ll clean up the glass, Lowell said.

Pyre sat on the couch with me in his lap and held me close, his hand smoothing my hair. The rise and fall of Pyre’s chest calmed me as I leaned my head against him. I closed my eyes, but the image of glass shards flying around my room remained in my mind. Small pieces of glass clinking against each other rattled in my ears and grated my nerves.

You’re positive neither of you were hurt?

We each got a few shallow cuts, nothing major. He moved my bangs out of my face.

How am I supposed to control that?

It’ll be easy. You’ll learn how by using other emotions.

Right. It’ll be easy. I rolled my eyes. It’ll be as easy as building the pyramids.

It’ll be easier than your art final, Lowell said, as he entered the room carrying a bag.

I still need to finish my drawing. My shoulders slumped, and I frowned.

You can work on it after you rest. Tomorrow you have school, Pyre said.

Don’t remind me, I groaned.

Chapter 3

Finals and Danger Approaching

Pyre escorted me to the speech classroom the next day and squeezed my hand when he left. Our professor explained the requirements for our final speech and dismissed us early, for which we were grateful.

Kira, have you chosen a speech topic? Lur asked as we packed our supplies at the end of class.

Not yet. I compiled a long list of ideas but I can’t decide.

I’ll inform everyone why music is important to our society, Stella said in a satisfied manner as she placed her headphones on her ears.

Of course you will. I plan to talk about the history of Wicca, Lur said.

My speech is on the benefits of meditation, Luna said.

Those are terrific choices. What do you suggest for mine? I chewed on my lip and considered my options.

Too bad you can’t do demons, Stella said.

That would be fun. Too bad I can’t.

What does she mean, ‘you can’t do demons’, Kira? Pyre popped into my head.

For my speech final, I’m supposed to inform the class on something, and I need a topic choice by no later than Thursday.

Why did she suggest doing a speech on demons?

She didn’t. She said it’s too bad I can’t do it on demons.

What subject are you considering?

I’m having a hard time choosing. I made a long list of interesting topics, but my top two choices are The Seven Wonders of the World or Edgar Cayce.

What made you consider those two?

I’ve always wanted to travel and visit The Seven Wonders of the World so researching them for a speech would be fun. Edgar Cayce was a psychic who made predictions during a sleep-like state. His prophecies that came true always fascinated me, and since I’ve had dreams that came true, I wondered if studying him might offer insight.

That’s right. His nickname was ‘The Sleeping Prophet.’ Researching him might help you understand your dreams and why some predicted the future. You might even be related to him.

I doubt that.

You never know.

Kira, Lur extracted me from the conversation. Are you talking to Pyre?

No, I’m talking to the other voice in my head.

Uh huh, if you’re done, tell Pyre he’d better not plan on hunting tonight because Lowell and I made plans.

Tell her it’s not up to me, Pyre said, appearing suddenly and wrapping an arm around my shoulders.

I love it when he does that! Stella jumped up and down while Luna tried to hide behind her.

Tell him to stop popping in whenever he wants. Lur got in his face with her hands on her hips.

Tell her I’ll do what I want and she can deal with it.

Tell him he’s a complete and total— A hand reached around and covered her mouth.

I recommend you don’t finish that sentence. Lowell held Lur back against his chest. She struggled to escape his grip, but he was too strong.

Stella doubled over laughing. He can hold her with one hand covering her mouth!

What is wrong with you? I smacked Pyre’s arm.

What? He put his arms up in defense.

Why are you picking a fight with her?

"She started it,