Reborn

A Sweltering Cold

There was an unsettling calm over the Fire Court. The clouds parted and sunlight came down in vivid streams of light. Theron stood on his balcony, overlooking his peaceful court. His eyes followed each Fae as they ambled through the gardens, streets, and forest paths as they did everyday. Part of the forests' trees were full of Crimson leaves, but as they retreated towards the Ice Court they became stripped bare of leaves with dark redwood bark. In the morning horizon the snow from the neighboring court was palpable. It was queer-the Ice Court being placed directly north of the Fire Court. Two opposite elements clashing at the border, but still kept peace. Theron returned his gaze back to the court that he was soon to rule. In the royal garden, there were commanders at their posts, hands clasped behind their backs. Every so often, a young one would run up to them and bring smiles to the commanders faces. Over the gardens was a wall of flame between the Monarchs and the rest of the lower Fea. The village was clustered with adjacent redwood homes and orbs of multi-colored fire drifted through the air. Vibrant colors shown throughout the village, celebrating the upcoming Flare Festival. The Flare Festival was the largest celebration in the Fire Court and loved by all Fae. It was the only court who held large festivities, besides for the Earth Court.
     He was snapped from his thoughts as he felt a heat nearing him and heard almost silent steps. Theron whipped around, raising his arm to strike. A large hand wrapped around his wrist and a scorching heat raced through his body. Theron deflected the pain of the heat with his own- sending a scarlet flame towards the being who had him held. The flame crashed into their body, flinging them backwards slightly. It was enough time for the prince to draw his dagger from his belt. Lurching forwards, he leapt behind the being, pressing the flat of his blade to their throat.
"You're getting quicker, son." The being said, voice thick with an accent.
Theron slowly lowered his dagger. "Perhaps you are just becoming slower, father."
"Don't get quirky," the Monarch replied, turning to face him. "You know you are to acquire the throne soon. I am aged and so is your mother. It is your turn to rule."
"Except?" he questioned
"What about except?"
"Don't play with me father. I know I need a mate to take the throne. I am well aware of you and mothers' planning."
"It's true you need a mate in order to obtain the throne," he said, "So at the Flare Festival, there will be a ball held in the square of the village. Find a mate, connect, then you can rule."
Theron sighed, rubbing his temples. "Father, you don't understand. You were blessed to find mother so easily. I cannot walk out and chose any Fae for my mate. I want a connection, but I am glad you let me find my own mate."
"You're a Royal Fae- a handsome one, if I might add. I doubt it will be a challenge to find your mate."
"If you insist," Theron held back a growl, "I'm going out now to speak with Commander Elvy."

➖

     Commander Elvy Racourd was placed in the center of the garden. He, along with three others, stood around the statue of the first Monarch in the Fire Court. The statue towered over them, it's Ruby eyes overlooking the village. The rest of the statue consist of bronze, rubies, and small slivers of copper. It had to be at least fourteen feet in height, if he were to estimate. Elvy noticed his approach and turned his head to the side so he could glance at him. Theron clapped the Commander on the back, grinning.
     "Elvy," he smiled, closing his eyes softly. "Wonderful day, is it not?"
     "A bit more sweltering, so yes." replied Elvy, casting his eyes towards the sky. "Pleasant. We Fire Fae do love the heat, don't we?"
     "Ah, yes. In fact, we would die if left in the cold for too long."
     "Hopefully this Armor will change that." he said. "Your mother is an excellent crafter."
     Theron eyed the bronze armor. "So she completed the cold-resistant armor."
     "Yes. Only a few have been produced, and I'm lucky enough to have the honor of wearing it."
     "Congratulations."
"Are you participating in the forest decorations this time?" asked Elvy. "With finding a mate and all, I figure you won't."
"Sadly, you're correct. Mother and father are very strict about finding my mate. Just before, father came to lecture me. They treat me as if I am their young kin, delaying me of my activities."
Elvy grinned, turning his head towards the village. "Break some rules once in a while, Theron. You are soon to take the throne as Monarch. You aren't the one following rules- you'll soon make rules. Go onto the village, do the forest decorations."
      "Well, if the Commander insists."