Elaina The Warrior: A Fantasy Romance Story

By Eliza Selmer

Fire Rages and brimstone falls,
With darkened days, chaos rules all.
The dark king rises, painting the heavens red,
Men and women bow, loyalty will be pledged.
                                             -Elder Aurj
Elaina Mason is the pride and joy of her secret organization of warriors. Orphaned as a child, she was raised to be an elite fighter that lived by only one rule... kill or be killed.
At the tender age of 22, Elaina's life seems to be going smoothly. That is, until dark creatures hell-bent on killing her start to appear much too frequently.
Determined to get to the bottom of what is going on, Elaina discovers a prophecy foretelling the end of time and a conspiracy taking place in the place she calls home.
Suddenly Elaina's whole world is turned upside and she no longer knows who to trust.
Will Elaina be able to get to the bottom of everything before the world as she knows it comes to an end?
Will the secrets that were kept in the dark come to light?
Will Elaina and her friends be able to stop the darkness that is threatening to tear their world apart?
Read Elaina The Warrior to find out!

• Language: English
• Publisher: iSuperNovel
• Release date: Apr 2, 2022

Book preview

Chapter 1

Fire Rages and brimstone falls,

With darkened days, chaos rules all.

The dark king rises, painting the heavens red,

Men and women bow, loyalty will be pledged.

-Elder Aurj

Fire, that was the only thing the little girl was comprehending as she looked straight ahead. Flames were licking all around the house in which she had lived. Smoke plumed into the air, the flames reflecting on them giving the scene a hellish glow.

It didn’t make sense to the little girl, the house shouldn’t be on fire, it should only be lit by lamp glow, the same lamps that her mother read underneath and her father sharpened his blades in.

Around the little girl people screamed for help, telling someone or another to call the fire department.

They’re too late, the little girl thought numbly.

Nothing would be left of the house by the time they arrived, nothing except ash and smoldering piles of her life gone forever.

Snapping out of her daze, the little girl screamed, launching herself towards the house.

Hands grabbed her from behind pulling her away. She kicked and screamed demanding to be let go of, but the hands didn’t loosen their grip. The hands were dark, the color of caramel, the little girl noted only looking away from the scene in front of her for a moment. The voice that came with them was soft and comforting. Vaguely she began to realize that the hands belonged to Samantha Morgan, her best friend Charise’s mother. Of course she would be here, she had just dropped her off.

We need to go. Samantha murmured, continuing to pull the little girl along.

NO! The little girl wailed. My parents are still in there!

It’s too late. Samantha insisted, continuing to pull the child.

In the distance the little girl could hear the sound of sirens making their way to the scene. They still sounded far away, too far away.

A shriek sounded from the burning house as glass and debris flew towards them.

Samantha launched them backwards tumbling through the frostbitten grass.

They stopped tumbling inches away from the street.

People all around were screaming in horror. Before them a creature emerged from the burning building, black as night. It stretched out its scaly wings and released a piercing cry. Its eyes blazed just like the fire.

The little girl was mesmerized by the thing in front of her. Samantha tensed and pushed the little girl aside, jumping up and pulling something from her boot.

The little girl recognized the dagger before Samantha flourished it and stepped into a fighting stance. It was all too much, the little girl felt dizzy and passed out.

Elaina woke with a start, her heart pounding in her chest. The sheet she had covered up with earlier in the night was wrapped tightly around her body.

Squirming, she managed to free one hand, which she used to push her thick dark hair away from her damp forehead.

It was still dark all around her, nowhere near time to be waking up just yet.

A giggle sounded from the room beside her, obviously Charise had just arrived home after a night of partying and was most likely entertaining a guest, or two. You never really knew her.

A sigh escaped Elaina’s lips as she freed her body the rest of the way.

The nightmare she had just woken from was still clear as day in her sleep fogged brain. They always haunted her this time of year, it was when it happened after all. The beast had attacked her parents and then lit her home on fire, leaving her an orphan.

After it happened the monks had taken her in, giving her shelter and food. In return she trained vigorously with them and promised to uphold her duties as a warrior, the same duties her parents had promised to uphold as well.

A loud thump and laughter drifted through the wall, it looked like they were going to be up for a while.

Not wanting to play the audience to Charise’s games, Elaina got out of bed and got dressed quickly, then headed out of her room and out of the house.

The air outside was crisp, not yet cold enough to wear a coat but chilly enough to send goosebumps up Elaina’s arms as she walked. She didn’t really know where she was going, or what she planned on doing, but the night air helped clear her mind, chasing away the demons in her head.

All around her homes were dark. Everyone was fast asleep and comfortable, with not a care in the world.

The streetlights above lit her way as she moved faster.

Elaina envied those people sleeping happily in their beds. They knew nothing of the creatures that existed, the same ones that haunted Elaina’s waking and sleeping mind.

The children that lived around her had their parents still; they didn’t know what it was like to have them ripped away in a single moment. They didn’t know what it was like to have to train day in and day out, using that training as an escape from the memories. Sometimes it just wasn’t fair, but then again, Elaina thought bitterly, life wasn’t fair.

Shaking her head once Elaina began to jog watching as everything around her blurred together. Her adrenaline pumping always helped calm her. She wished that there was a monster or something to fight in order to completely block out everything, but lately things had been strangely calm.

The monks thought it weird, because there was always something around, even if it was a little burlack beast. But even now they were nowhere to be found.

Elaina continued running not sure of her destination, but knowing that she had to get somewhere. It was almost like a magnetic pull, something was urging her forward, telling her where to go.

Elaina was running at full speed now, her breath coming out in puffs.

Finally, she began to slow down and then stopped altogether.

Standing in front of her underneath a street light was one of the monks. He wore the ceremonial yellow and burgundy of peace.

He studied Elaina curiously as she made her way towards him.

Most of the monks Elaina knew had shaved heads and no facial hair whatsoever, but this monk was different.

His dark hair fell messily around his face and he looked like he hadn’t had the opportunity to shave in days.

Are you new? Elaina asked, stepping before him.

The monk continued to study her thoughtfully, a little smile playing on his lips.

Do I look like just a little babe? The monk’s eyes flashed in amusement.

Elaina bristled, I didn’t mean it like that. She crossed her arms indignantly and continued to watch the monk.

I am brother Joseph of Northern Brethren. He said finally. I was sent here to warn the brethren of the East.

Warn them of what? Elaina asked curiously, eyeing Brother Joseph.

Too bad he was a monk, he wasn’t half bad looking, you could even say he was cute.

Brother Joseph continued studying Elaina as if considering what all he could tell her.

The impending doom that is coming this way. Brother Joseph said finally. It has already attacked my Brethren, most did not survive.

Explains the unshaven face and hair, but that would mean that brother Joseph had been on the run for a while, Elaina mused. It did not however explain why he brought the warning.

Elaina knew that the brethren had some circuit that spread news all throughout the brotherhood, usually they never left their shelters in order to see one another.

Why are you here instead of there warning the brethren then Brother Joseph? Elaina asked quietly.

Shouldn’t you be warning Brother Isaac instead of talking to me?

Brother Joseph didn’t seem the slightest bit offended by Elaina’s words, which in all honesty was typical of the brethren.

You found me, I didn’t come find you. Brother Joseph pointed out solemnly. But it is a good thing I found you first.

Why’s that? Elaina snapped.

Because.

Brother Joseph didn’t finish his sentence. In a move so fast Elaina almost didn’t catch it he ripped his robe off revealing a belt full of weapons. Attached to his shoulders was a sword in which he yanked free and flourished before her.

His eyes Elaina noticed now were dark as a night, small sparks of red flickered there. A wide smile formed on his lips as he lifted the sword ready to fight.

You’re too trusting Elaina Mason. He said smiling.

Elaina smiled sweetly at the man before her. He watched as she reached her hands behind her head and in one swift move pulled the dagger she always hid in a strap attached to her shoulder wielding it before her.

Elaina knew that her little dagger wouldn’t help much against this man’s sword, but maybe it could hold him off long enough for her to escape.

I guess I’m not too surprised. The man said idly, eyeing the dagger in Elaina’s hand. Although, I don’t quite understand what you plan on doing with that little toy of yours.

More than you could possibly imagine. Elaina responded crouching into a fighting defensive stance.

It was true, she had used just her dagger to take down three opponents at once.

For the most part she had held her own pretty well, aside from a few broken ribs and a sprained ankle she had walked away unharmed. The problem was those men had been goonies of the dark brothers sent to kidnap her.

This man was a demon, but she didn’t know just how much of the darkness he had in him.

With a cry the man moved forward positioning his sword towards Elaina’s chest.

She dodged, but not fast enough to avoid the blade cutting into her arm. She clamped down on a yelp of pain and rushed toward the man while he tried to get his footing again.

He was fast, much faster than her and easily moved out of the way.

Whirling she moved again, focusing all her energy on the beast before her.

He smiled savagely, easily batting her dagger away.

Deciding that defense wasn’t the best option Elaina decided to try to be offensive. She steadied herself turning and facing her opponent once more. He was smiling maniacally watching her with amusement.

You really did think that you could defeat me with that little thing didn’t you Elaina Mason? He laughed.

Elaina gritted her teeth, Don’t call me that.

Seeming even more amused the man started moving slowly around her. Elaina moved with him, never taking her eyes off the man’s weapon wielding arm, she knew that if she did that would be her end.

Why not Elaina Mason? He asked now. Do you not like hearing your family name? I suppose it could be a little upsetting since your parents' death. Terrible thing that, if only they had cooperated they might still be here today.

Anger flared in Elaina almost causing her to lose her concentration, realizing immediately that was what this beast wanted she pushed it all down and bared her teeth in a snarl.

You know nothing about my parents. She spat.

Another laugh erupted from the man, this one deep and guttural. I know much more than you would think. Who do you think sent that beast to destroy them?

Elaina’s ears began to ring, the man's words seeping into her brain. Was he telling the truth? Had he actually sent that creature to kill her parents eleven years ago?

A white hot rage rose in Elaina, one that shocked even her.

Not caring anymore about trying to keep the beast at bay she let out a cry and ran at him again, a move that would’ve cost her greatly if someone hadn’t shoved her away at the last minute.

Elaina went sprawling on the grass as the beast took in a shocked breath.

He turned to face whoever it was that had saved her life at the last minute.

At some point they had moved from under the light so all Elaina could really make out was the person's outline.

He was holding something in his hands ready to swing at the beast if it decided to come for him.

Get out of here! Her savior yelled savagely. You stupid girl, you shouldn’t even be here right now.

Anger welled up in Elaina again at being called stupid.

Jumping up she rushed the beast tackling it from behind while it was distracted. They went tumbling to the ground again, the beast clawing and flailing.

Elaina tried her best to keep the beast's attacks at bay, but at one point his fist made contact with her temple, sending her flying through the air. She landed against something hard, all the air rushing out of her lungs.

For a second everything was blurry and her ears were ringing.

Gasping she tried to stand up again ignoring the screaming protests from her body.

Stay down. The person said again rushing towards her. Do you hear me? Stay down!

Elaina found herself face to face with a man, his green eyes blazing angrily. Dark curly hair hung in his face. Elaina noted a scar on his cheek, the sure sign of a battle, a mark he would wear for the rest of his life.

If you value your life you will stay where you are you hear….

He didn’t get to finish his sentence as he was lifted by the beast and flung through the air.

Gasping Elaina jumped up readying herself for another attack, but the beast simply hissed and disappeared into nothing but vapor.

Stunned, Elaina looked around trying to determine what exactly had just happened. There was nobody else around except her and the man that had rescued her laying limp in the grass.

Elaina ran to him, kneeling by his side and turning him over. He was awake and staring up in a daze, when his eyes finally focused he frowned and shoved Elaina’s hands off of him.

Leave it to a woman to ruin everything. He snapped sitting up and clamping a hand to his head. He pulled his fingers away sticky with blood.

Damnit, you let that thing get away!

Elaina flinched back as if punched,

What do you mean I let it get away? She growled. I was handling him just fine until you interfered.

The man laughed, Yes, because almost getting stabbed through the chest is really handling things.

I would’ve been fine. Elaina snapped indignantly. I’ve had worse injuries. Who are you anyway?

It’s none of your business who I am. The man said standing up and brushing grass off his clothes.

Elaina noted he was wearing the customary battle gear for the brethren, a simple black vest over a steel breastplate. Black trousers with many pockets to hide numerous weapons and hunting boots. He was taller than Elaina and glared down at her as if she was a disobedient child.

What? Elaina demanded feeling slightly self-conscious.

Shouldn’t you be at home sleeping where it is safe for children? The man asked, crossing his arms.

I’m not a child. Elaina said through gritted teeth.

You’re what, sixteen, seventeen maybe? The man continued to push causing Elaina’s temper to reach its boiling point.

I’m twenty two. Elaina snapped, Legal age of a warrior of the brethren.

This caught the man off guard; he stared at Elaina in a new way as if noticing her for the first time.

Elaina was used to people thinking she was young. She had inherited her mother’s looks, dark wavy hair that framed her face making her look like a baby doll with bright blue eyes, and only standing at five foot even. The only thing that indicated she was mature was the womanly curves she had luckily been blessed with.

You’re a warrior of the brethren? The man asked, looking suspicious.

What do they think a tiny thing like you can do?

Having heard enough Elaina stormed forward grabbing the man by his arm and shoulder, then with one jerk flipped him over her body. He landed on his back and lay there looking up at her in shock.

What was that about wondering what a tiny thing like me can do? Elaina asked sweetly, dimpling her face.

You got lucky. The man said simply sitting up. That won’t happen again, trust me.

You’re right it won’t, because I don’t plan on running into you again. Elaina said simply turning and walking away. Leaving the idiotic man behind staring dumbly at her retreating figure.

Chapter 2

Elaina awoke the next morning feeling the battle from the night before.

Inching slowly out of bed her body screamed at her insisting that she just stay put, which she wanted to do, but knew that she couldn’t.

Ignoring the protests she took a quick shower and changed into jeans and t-shirt then hurried downstairs following the smell of coffee wafting through the living room from the kitchen, beckoning her forward.

Morning. Charise called not turning around from the smoothie she was throwing together. I made you some coffee.

Grateful Elaina helped herself to a cup and sat at the table.

As usual Charise was already dressed for work sporting black pants, a simple white shirt, and red apron. Her unruly brown hair piled atop her head.

Charise worked as a barista at a local coffee bar on the strip, even though she didn’t need the money she insisted it made her feel a little more normal.

Elaina had been confused by that, but Charise was different. She enjoyed the battle and even took pleasure in it occasionally, but she also enjoyed acting like a normal woman in her early twenties.

Unlike Elaina, Charise hadn’t chosen this life; her parents had chosen it for her and with some major persuasion from Elaina, Charise had agreed to follow in their footsteps and train to be a warrior as well. Where Elaina hoped that the battling never ended, Charise hoped that one day it would and she could live a peaceful life with a family. Something Elaina knew that she never wanted.

Late night? Charise asked curiously, finally turning.

Elaina shrugged, Yeah, you know the usual terrifying dreams and then an encounter with a messenger from the dark brothers.

Charise’s eyes grew wide, You got a message from the dark brothers? Why didn’t you come get me? Are you hurt?

Woah. Elaina said, holding up her hands. Obviously I handled it just fine, I’m sitting here talking to you aren’t I?

True. Charise eyed Elaina curiously. How did you manage that anyway?

Elaina sighed, I had a little help to be honest. This guy showed up right before I became a kabob.

A man? Charise asked, raising an eyebrow. Possibly a cute man?

Why do you always have to ask that particular question? Why does it matter if he is cute or not? He was insulting and totally full of himself. Elaina said simply.

Insulting how? Charise pushed obviously wanting every detail.

He called me a stupid little girl and told me to go home and let the big guys handle the beast fighting. Elaina huffed, sitting her coffee cup down.

Charise didn’t take her eyes off Elaina, Did he say it like that or are you being over dramatic?

I might have added some things to that, but it was pretty much the same thing.

Elaina realized that her cup was empty and stood to pour herself another.

Charise continued watching her as if she had grown a second head.

Why are you staring at me? Elaina asked impatiently, whirling around.

Aren’t you just in the slightest bit interested as to how this man magically showed up, since you didn’t know who he was? He is obviously not part of the Eastern brethren. Charise looked very interested in the mystery that was this strange man.

I’m not interested in anything about him. Elaina said indignantly, sitting back down. He was rude, arrogant, and thought that women aren’t capable of fighting in battle alongside men.

Charise licked her lips. Arrogant and a hero, I would really like to meet this guy.

Elaina sighed defeated, getting up she rinsed her coffee cup out and sat it in the sink. Good luck with that, I have no idea where he is or where he came from.

Elaina stormed out the kitchen, but not fast enough to not hear Charise call after her. You never answered my question.

Elaina turned, What question was that?

Was he good looking? Charise called back.

Not bothering to respond, Elaina slipped on her boots and headed out. After her run in last night she planned to pay a visit to the brothers in order to get answers from them.

The sky outside was a bright perfect blue, the smell of autumn’s arrival evident in the breeze. Taking in a deep breath Elaina began walking.

When Elaina arrived at the institute Brother Benjamin stood at the gate to greet her.

She had sent word ahead to let them know she was coming. Brother Benjamin smiled brightly at her, his wrinkles prominent on his face.

He had been one of Elaina’s main caretakers growing up, he was the closest thing Elaina had to a father.

Hello Elaina. Brother Benjamin said as she stepped forward. What brings you here?

I had an interesting encounter last night. Elaina confessed following Brother Benjamin inside.

Care to add to that? Brother Benjamin asked not bothering to look behind him.

Elaina took a deep breath. I ran into a beast who claimed to be part of the Northern Brethren. He said that he was delivering a message about some type of darkness coming our way. Afterwards he tried to kill me, but I was saved by some man. Who may I add is part of the warriors.

Brother Benjamin listened quietly and didn’t look surprised when Elaina mentioned the man who saved her.

That means they have arrived. He said simply turning and disappearing into an alcove.

Elaina followed ducking between the wall of beads that separated rooms from the main hall. Brother Benjamin sat on a mat at the front of the room and gestured for Elaina to sit across from him.

Elaina obliged, sitting down with her knees gathered below her. She took in the room around them, it was the one she spent many days meditating in.

Sconces sat on either side of the room holding candles that burned brightly illuminating the golden walls all around.

Behind Brother Benjamin sat the statue of Ezra, the first warrior of the brethren, the master sword held securely in his outstretched hand.

The sword had been lost after the battle of darkness, most thought it had been destroyed along with Ezra, although others believed the dark army had secured it and were planning on using it against them one day to get revenge.

Who has arrived? Elaina asked now. You called on the other warriors of the brethren?

Brother Benjamin simply nodded, As you know it is very unusual for things to be so calm, we fear that the dark brothers may be gathering all their forces in preparation for an attack.

Elaina let out a breath, Are you sure they simply just haven’t finally started to all die off? There’s no way that there are that many demons and beasts.

For every one warrior we have there are at least a thousand beasts Elaina. Brother Benjamin responded gravelly. They are made when the warriors are born.

That can’t be true. Elaina whispered quietly. We are so little in numbers, how can there be that many?

It is the way of the world. Brother Benjamin said simply. As for this other warrior you ran into, tell me more about him.

Once again Elaina recounted her encounter with the arrogant warrior who berated her simply for being a woman. She tried to keep her voice even and not show Brother Benjamin just how much she disliked the man, as a warrior she was supposed to give nothing but respect to the other warriors she encountered, although the man hadn’t bothered showing her any respect.

He did not introduce himself to you? Brother Benjamin asked curiously.

Elaina shook her head, No, but I didn’t really give him the chance. She admitted lamely. I got mad and left.

Brother Benjamin gave her a disapproving look, making Elaina feel like a child in training again. Each time she let her anger get the best of her and let her guard down whichever brother that was training her at the time would give her a look of disapproval that made her feel like she had let them all down.

Elaina squirmed under Brother Benjamin’s gaze wanting nothing more than to get up and leave, but knew that she couldn’t do that, it was the most disrespectful thing she could do.

After what felt like hours, brother Benjamin finally spoke, We are having a gathering tonight, a way to introduce our warriors to the visiting ones. Hopefully this time you will show more respect Elaina.

Yes Brother Benjamin. Elaina said defeated.

Now, go ahead home child.

Elaina nodded and stood. She bowed slightly to brother Benjamin before hurrying away.

A gathering! Charise squealed brightly. I hope there are at least some cute warriors, I’m so bored of all the ones we have here.

Only because you have already made your way through them. Elaina noted.

She stood in front of Charise’s full length mirror moving a black dress with a v-neck top in front of her and then a baby blue one that fell to her knees, but seemed more presentable from side to side.

When Elaina had told Charise about the get-together that night, Charise had insisted that she borrow one of her dresses. Despite a lot of protesting Charise had ended up winning and was now holding her hostage until she was absolutely sure that Elaina looked like a real woman.

Charise herself had already changed out of her work uniform and into a violet number so short it could be considered inappropriate, that hugged her figure nicely, sure to catch the eye of quite a few of the Northern warriors men.

I don’t know. Elaina quipped, continuing to move either dress from side to side. I don’t really feel like either of these suit me very well.

Charise rolled her eyes, You don’t think any dress fits you very well.

True, but Charise was making a big deal out of nothing.

Tell me again why my normal meeting clothes aren’t good enough for this gathering? Elaina said, throwing the dresses down in frustration.

When the Brothers usually called a gathering of the warriors they were required to wear all black, black shirt, slacks, and boots. Simple, easy enough to throw together and go, but Charise had insisted that this gathering was different.

She had spoken with her parents and they said it was going to be somewhat of a banquet with eating and dancing, a celebration of the two groups coming together. That had set Charise off and when she got started she was most certainly a force to be reckoned with.

You don’t have anything a little more modest? Elaina asked, sitting on the edge of Charise’s bed.

Charise sighed and disappeared into her closet.

Elaina watched as articles of clothing came flying out as Charise dug around trying to find something to make her happy.

At one point Elaina saw a pair of men’s pants come flying out, but decided to keep her mouth shut. What Charise did was really none of her business, they were both adults and could do whatever they wanted after all.

After a large pile of clothing had formed in the middle of the room Charise appeared holding a simple grey cotton dress with a scoop neck. She hurled it at Elaina and demanded she put it on.

Sensing Charise’s mood Elaina disappeared into the bathroom and did as she was told.

The dress really didn’t look bad on her, it hugged her hips and chest just right, but not enough to really draw attention to herself. It was a little short, but not something that would make her terribly uncomfortable.

As Elaina stepped out of the bathroom Charise let out a whistle and started catcalling.

Elaina found a pillow and flung it at her which set Charise into a laughing fit.

Now, sit so I can do your makeup. Charise demanded pulling out her vanity chair.

Wait what? Elaina asked, eyes wide.

You said nothing about having to wear makeup.

Charise sighed, losing her patience with her best friend. This is kind of like a ball, you remember the ones we were always told about as kids?

Elaina nodded, Yes, but what does that have to do with me wearing makeup?

Just let me do what I do best. Charise insisted, pulling out a compact.

Closing her eyes Elaina let Charise attack her face and then without any warning she went after her hair.

Elaina tried to protest, but Charise simply quieted her with a huff.

Open your eyes. Charise clapped finally done. She stepped back and examined Elaina smiling proudly. You look fabulous.

Elaina opened her eyes and turned so that she could face herself in the mirror.

A gasp escaped her lips as she stared at the stranger before her. Charise had managed to define her dark waves so that they surrounded her face even more than usual and fell gracefully down her back and shoulders. Her face looked like it was made of porcelain, very fair except for the rosey spots on her cheek bones. Her eyes were surrounded by silver making the blue pop even more and her eye lashes looked full and long shadowing her much too wide eyes.

Dizziness overtook Elaina making her collapse back in her chair, tears threatening to start spilling.

What’s wrong? Charise asked worriedly. Are you ok? Do you feel sick?

It’s like looking at my mother. Elaina whispered, refusing to look at her reflection again. I look just like her.

Charise placed a reassuring hand on Elaina’s shoulder. Your mother would be so proud of the woman you have become Elaina.

Do you think so? Elaina asked sniffling.

Of course. Charise said. You’re beautiful, strong, and a pretty badass warrior, what isn’t to be proud of?

Elaina considered this and then smiled, I am pretty bad ass huh?

And full of yourself I forgot that part. Charise said laughing. Now come on or we are going to be late for this gathering.

Elaina nodded while standing then looked down at her feet which were still bare. You don’t happen to have some shoes I can borrow, do you?

Charise smiled one of her devious smiles, Of course I do.

Chapter 3

Charise and Elaina arrived at the institute just as the sun began to set, people they didn’t recognize were milling around idly speaking quietly amongst themselves.

Elaina looked down at her feet and cursed herself for asking Charise about borrowing a pair of shoes. Charise of course had shoes that she could borrow, but she hadn’t bothered to think about the comfort of the wearer. Being a woman Elaina should have been used to wearing heels, but being a warrior she stuck to wearing comfortable shoes, and now Charise had her in heels and her feet were screaming at her.

You look great, did I mention that? Charise asked, smiling from ear to ear. I should really be a fashion consultant.

Elaina glared, You should really be trained to torture people actually.

Charise of course was much too excited to get mad about Elaina’s little hit on her.

Instead she twirled and grabbed Elaina’s arm pulling her through the crowd with her. As they moved people took them in, mostly the men admiring the two lovely women amongst them.

It wasn’t uncommon to see women warriors, but they were hard to come by, most gave up the fighting in order to become wives and mothers.

The ones that didn’t usually had something wrong with them, but Charise and Elaina were different and everyone was noticing.

Hey there. Charise purred as one man reached out to her. Sorry honey, but the night is still young. She winked and blew him a kiss before hurrying on her way.

Must you flirt with anything that has a penis? Elaina asked, glaring at her friend.

Charise turned looking hurt, I do not flirt with anything with a penis, only if it is good looking I do not do ugly.

Elaina couldn’t help but laugh, That’s my girl.

Up ahead Elaina spotted two familiar heads, they were ducked towards each other speaking quietly with Brother Gabriel. They only managed to look up when Charise squealed and hurried towards them leaving Elaina alone in the crowd. She watched as Charise embraced her parents and began talking animatedly to them, her arms moving as if to enunciate everything she said.

They looked to Elaina and waved before disappearing into the crowd.

Sighing, Elaina looked around for any other familiar faces.

Growing up in the institute she had gotten to know most of the warriors her age, but since a lot of them moved to join different divisions it was hard to really keep any major friendships.

All around her unfamiliar faces acknowledged her, but continued on their way.

Suddenly feeling very out of place Elaina squirmed her way towards the back door, where she knew she could sneak away into the garden of meditation in order to collect her thoughts.

It took a bit of elbowing and force, but finally she reached the door. Opening it slowly she snuck out.

Outside the moon had already risen producing an unearthly glow on the flowers and bushes that surrounded the garden. The flowers swayed in the light breeze as if they were waving to Elaina calling her towards them.

She slipped her shoes off and made her way down the stairs, hoping to disappear into the shadows for a few moments. She knew as soon as Charise realized she was missing that she would surely come looking for her.

In the distance she could hear a string quartet playing indicating the dancing would be done outside amongst the moon and the stars.

Elaina sat and closed her eyes listening to the rhythm that was currently being played; it wasn’t too slow, but also not too fast. Something from a completely different time period.

Seems we had the same idea. A voice said from beside her.

Elaina’s eyes snapped open and she looked over coming face to face with the man that had helped her fight the beast.

You! Elaina snapped glaring. Are you following me or something?

Looking confused, the man examined Elaina closely, his eyes widening as recognition overtook him. You clean up well.

Thanks. Elaina snapped, crossing her arms. You didn’t answer my question, are you following me?

The man looked taken aback, Of course I’m not following you. You’re very full of yourself if you think that.

Elaina continued to glare, her eyes narrowing even more. Then what are you doing out here?

I was invited, thank you very much. The man said simply.

That isn’t what I meant. Elaina was beginning to lose her temper again. I meant what are you doing out here, shouldn’t you be inside with your fellow warriors?

He shrugged, It isn’t like I’ve been gone for hours.

Fed up with the conversation Elaina stood placing her shoes back on her feet and headed towards the institute once more.

Did I do something to you? The man asked, getting up and following her. Something to make you not want to be anywhere near me?

Elaina whirled, You called me a stupid girl and said that I had no business fighting. Her voice was harsh, but she didn’t care. And now you ask me if you did something to make me mad? Really are you that dense?

Ok, so we started out on the wrong foot. How was I supposed to know that you were a fellow warrior? You weren’t even in battle gear and only had a tiny little dagger. The man tried.

Please, just leave me alone. Elaina snapped, hurrying up the stairs and disappearing inside, being sure to get lost in the crowd so that the man couldn’t find her.

ELAINA! There you are! Charise yelled, pushing her way through the crowd.

She looked a little flushed and Elaina noted that she held a half empty wine glass in one hand. I thought you had flaked and ran home.

No such luck. Elaina said, faking a smile. I just had to step out for some air.

Sure you weren’t necking with that guy? Charise asked, thrusting her chin out.

Elaina turned to see who she was talking about, although she knew exactly who it was. Nobody else had been outside in