Spellfire Commemorative
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Spellfire Commemorative
MIDNIGHT SHOWCASE Erotic-aah Digest Vol. 06-24
Spellfire Commemor...
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Spellfire Commemorative
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Spellfire Commemorative
MIDNIGHT SHOWCASE Erotic-aah Digest Vol. 06-24
Spellfire Commemorative Digest Readers' Choices (Plus three new stories)
MIDNIGHT SHOWCASE www.midnightshowcase.com
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Spellfire Commemorative Published by MIDNIGHT SHOWCASE P.O. Box 300491 Houston, TX 7730 Fairies & Cherries, Copyright 2005-2006 Leigh Ellwood A Statue For All Seasons, Copyright 2005-2006 Mae Powers Drifting Desires, Copyright 2006 Leanne Strange Moonshyne, Copyright 2006 Jewel Adams Shadows & Darkness Copyright 2006 Mae Powers The Grollim, Copyright 2006 Bridghid Parkinson Nymph Gardens and Elfen Moons, Copyright 2006 by Jewel Adams Welcome to Spellfire, Copyright 2005 - 2006 Mae Powers Electra Spellfire’s Welcome, Copyright 2005 - 2006 Mae Powers Moonshyne’s Treasure Hunt, Copyright 2006 Jewel Adams
Names, characters and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of the author or the publisher. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. ISSN 1555-5496 Vol.06-24
Credits Editors: Mae Powers, Bridghid Parkinson Copy & Format Editor Jewel Adams Cover Artist: Mae Powers Database Collection, Olivia Lorenz Extra Credits: Spellfire History: All Spellfire Ghostwriters & The Dead Librarians' Society Printed in the United States of America
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Spellfire Commemorative
Welcome to a special town called Spellfire, Texas Spellfire is a very special town in that its inhabitants are mostly made up of hot-blooded paranormal beings and some unusual normals. If a tourist comes to town there is a spell about Spellfire that keeps others from knowing the unique residents. A newcomer might think it is a regular country city, unless they can see through the protection spell and are accepted as belonging there by Spellfire as a paranormal creature/being who can see the true reality of the town. Many of the residents in this unique and oddball place have a sweet tooth or sweet fetish in some form or fashion and there is one particular place they all strive to go to… Sinful Sundaes Ice Cream Shop is a special type of novelty desert parlor. It is located in the large town square of Spellfire, Texas. Here, within the shop and the town, you’ll learn of the diverse lifestyles and secrets concerning the town’s inhabitants and visitors. It will make you think twice about taking pleasure in sundaes and other deliciously hexed—sweet concoctions. Regular humans can go there too. It is one of the town’s hottest spot. Sinful Sundae’s sells more than just ice cream. There are also ice cream cakes, brownies, and gallons of ice cream to take home, hot dogs, hamburgers, malts, souvenirs, candy, and various other related items. There are at least two favorite flavors that tourists love to try. Caramel Carnivore Cupcakes: mini ice-cream cup cakes with swirls of pecans and caramel, inside vanilla ice cream. Strawberry Veinilla: Old-Fashioned homemade vanilla with veins of blood red Strawberry juice flowing through it. However, tourists also love the toppings and they sell like wildfire. Yet, Electra never asks why, she just knows. Next door to Sins, as it is sometimes nicknamed, is Barnabas’ Bar, which is the town’s largest nightspot/club. Across the street from Sins is Trinkets, a new-age shop that sells anything from books to coven robes, and often has coffee times scheduled. Various shops are around this mid-size town, both for normal and paranormal crowds, so normal are use to the paranormal at times. There are hotels, like the one down the street, not but a 1/8th mile, from Barnabas’ Bar. The Spell House is a very old and intriguing 5-star hotel. At the 4
Spellfire Commemorative opposite end of the town is the Havoc Hotel, a very competitive place towards Spell House. Then there is a Bred and Breakfast type of place called Boodoirs, run by a very ghostly family, some of whom only become corporeal at Halloween. The town has been around for several hundred years and is one of the oldest in Texas. It is located between Galveston and Houston, Texas. The mayor of the town is Perry Normil. And he is not always too fond of the paranormal set. He dislike’s fairies in particular and hates the shop for selling his worst flavor of cherry ice cream. So he can cause trouble if you’re not nice to him. He has a lot of despicable spooks in his pocket. He’s a close friend with Frightful Frieda. His sister Abbi Normil once ran against him as mayor, but she disappeared some years ago and no one ever discovered what happened to her. One of the nastiest person in town is Frightful Frieda, she doesn’t like girls prettier than her and will cause problems just out of spite. She is a Northern witch whose half-mortal husband dumped her in Spellfire and left with a younger husband-grabbing witch. So watch it, she might even try to cast a spell on some unsuspecting man. Everyone knows that it was Perry’s wife that her husband ran off with. She and Perry have another semi-nasty friend and he’s very spooky. Horrible Henry is one of Spellfire’s naughtiest and raunchiest ghosts. You never know what he is up to. These three know a lot of dark secrets about Spellfire and love to gossip. Perhaps one of the most unusual people in town is long-time resident Electra Spellfire, sole owner of Sinful Sundaes. She’s a lovely, but stubbornly, powerful sorceress who knows a lot about what goes on in Spellfire. She knows because the town tells her. Electra’s lineage goes a very long way back into the history of Spellfire. Back into a time when the Havocs, Spellfires, and Gremlors, an ancient Indian races, and other mysterious beings, roamed the old lands now known as Texas. Many other remarkable and not so strange characters and places abound in Spellfire, as do their secrets. Just wait and see, something unique and mysterious always happens in Spellfire, which can even cause the paranormal residents to be surprised. Spellfire itself watches those who enter it’s borders and delves into the secret love lives of many there. You can leave Spellfire, but, oddly, something about it 5
Spellfire Commemorative will always remain in your heart and in your mind. Oh, be sure to visit to Spellfire’s Sinful Sundae’s Ice Cream Shop with its proprietor Electra Spellfire, while you are in town. Welcome to Spellfire from the owner of SINFUL SUNDAES ICE CREAM SHOP The shop has grown and improved since it opened over a hundred years ago. Although we get frequent visitors over the years, due to Spellfire’s attractions, it seems they never fail to put in an appearance at Sins. Sometimes I wonder what it is about my shop that attracts everyone. Some of the regulars haven’t changed their dispositions much over the years. I look over the growing Sunday crowd and see Perry Normil, our belligerent mayor for the last few terms, sitting awfully chummy with Frightful Frieda, the town’s nastiest personality, who is espying the new-comer, but keeping up her 90mile an hour conversation with Perry, the only one in town who has a bigger mouth than she does. They are both in their mid-thirties, and have developed an odd friendship ever since their perspective spouses ran off with each other. There’s no telling whom Frieda Farthington will harm next. She doesn’t like happy lovers and Perry is only too willing to help her out since he likes stirring up trouble. Problem is when you stand up to these two and their business allies, you have to watch your back. I’m sure if it weren’t for the fact that I let them come in here occasionally and indulge their rotten sweet tooth’s, they leave the Sinful Sundae Ice Cream Shoppe alone most of the time. Heck, be right with you shortly, there’s the manager of Havoc House Hotel wanting his weekly Hot Fudge Sundae, which he likes on Saturdays too, when he makes his pastry orders for Havoc House. If I weren’t so fed up with men right now, and he wasn’t my distant cousin, I’d go after that shape-shifting hunk. The only problem I see with that Demvir hottie is that he is too strung up about anyone having anything to do with Spell House. The family owners, of the two biggest hotels in town, have been feuding with each other personally and commercially for years. Especially as both hotels cater to the rich paranormal set from all over the world. As long as they keep the fight outside my shop I don’t get involved. Now what is that tall dude doing now. Looking over the ice 6
Spellfire Commemorative cream cakes as if they were not my prize winning confections, sniffing his nose up at them like they were less than palatable. Hmm, some people have nerve. He’s probably a tourist. Oh there’s Horrible Henry fixing to do some mischief. Well let him if that’s the attitude that tourist is going to take about my goodies. Henry can be pretty mean at times, but sometimes he’s a hoot to have around. Why, just last Monday, when the Mummy Gay Corp had their annual gala and parade, he started throwing marshmallows and syrup over the old chief mummy Shallab, just because Shallab wouldn’t go to the fall festival shindig with him. Henry is an old swinger, his wife caught him swinging both ways one too many times. She buried him alive under the old Bred and Breakfast Inn – Boodoirs, over a century ago. He’s still looking for a way to end his curse, but I doubt he wants it to end soon. The old geezer has too much fun causing mischief. I can’t believe Henry passed up dunking that big tourist’s head into one of the frozen cakes. It’s hard sometimes, over the din, not to tell him to get out of the doorway. Henry knows people want to sample and buy my specialty made treats. Oh good, Henry is going over to annoy Frieda and Perry. They are the only couple he hates worse than the middle-aged couple, Marion and Jeff, who runs the gift store Trinkets. Of course for an incorporeal person, Henry loves taking tea with them on Wednesdays when they have their Witch singles nightly gathering. Guess he feels like he’s there to liven up the place. The Trinkets, across the street, comes in here very early to get my Mothy Molasses bars for their singles tea gathering. They also do a heck of a sale that day too. I sneak a way for an hour or so to see what magical new goodies they are selling. Now that blasted tourist is looking at the regular pastry cabinet next to the front part of the serving counter. Some people can’t make up their minds, just like Angus Sinclair, the man that owns Barnabas Bar. I guess he named it after that TV vamp he use to watch as a kid. Every time Angus comes in here for the Friday ice-cream flavor change-over, it seems his fairy friends have to tag along, just to see what brand of ice cream I’m buying or making. They all have such terrible sweet tooths and tempers to match. I may be a sorceress, but you don’t mess around with the Fearsome Fairy pack. It just better not be them that has been delaying my deliveries of late. There’s this one particular brand of Cherry ice cream I love and even trans-shifting it’s 7
Spellfire Commemorative not always available to me. Now that can be an interesting weekday because that magical pack is almost as bad as Henry and his haunting friends who party in the different bars in town. Why even Mischief Mike’s place, the seediest bar in town, has some of the slimiest, meanest and unusual creatures cavorting there a lot. Especially on Tuesdays, when they buy out almost all the sundae toppings, seems like the wildest parties are on Tuesdays. They get their thrills from doing all kinds of interesting things. So what if I’ve stopped in there a time or two to see what is going on. A gal’s gotta know when to stock her store surplus and all. ‘Course that’s a tame set, sometimes, compared to the ghostly friends I have here on Thursdays when the town’s ancient librarians come in for their Thursday ice cream meeting. These ghostly gals and guys love their goodies. Even Perry and Frieda won’t mess with that bunch. The Dead Librarians Society knows more than anyone else what’s gone on or is going on in this town, even more than my exmother-in-law. I wish my friend witch Lively wouldn’t let her work at Boodoirs anymore. But that’s an old story best left buried. It’s a wonder, that tourist finally settled down at a booth and ordered. I shouldn’t be so curious about him, even though he does have a nice tush. Out the bay windows at the front part of the shop, I see the Goblin and Gremlin construction crew pulling in at the Troll Bridge and Builder’s Association. Now that’s a tough set, but let me tell you they build buildings that last. You name it or want it made, and then they build it for you. All you have to do is have a little imagination and you can get anything you wanted created in this town. Course it’s gonna cost a lot. I got my additions done because they can’t resist the head waitress on Sunday and the cleavage she dishes up when they order my Strawberry Veinilla Specials. Gotta remind myself to give Harpy Collins a very big raise. Well it’s getting late now, and I only close the Ice Cream Shop on Sundays at midnight for a few hours. I’m thankful I have some good night managers and a great team of workers so I can get time off. However, Sunday night is the only time I get to myself, pretty much, and can get creative. I go upstairs at night to my mad scientist like cooking area and come up with all kinds of new concoctions, 8
Spellfire Commemorative both spellishly great ice cream and pastry delights, along with new spells and magical potions I make up, which I sell to Trinkets and New Age Magic shops around the world. Hey, a witch has gotta make a living, even while I’m having fun. I’ll let you know more later, but time to run the lurkers out and get some my—time Be sure to enjoy your time here at Spellfire and I know you will always come back.
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WELCOME TO SPELLFIRE, TEXAS Where unusual is the norm! When Spellfire was first created, none of us had any idea how big it would become, or how much it would grow and touch the hearts of our readers. Thanks to all you marvelous Readers and the gifted imaginations of all Spellfire authors, it will continue to grow and become part of all of us for a long time. Enjoy the hauntings of things to come. Now… YOU asked for them and picked them, so here are the Readers' Choice Stories from the first four Spellfire digests. So… Read on if you dare!
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Spellfire Commemorative
READERS CHOICE WINNERS
Sinful Sundaes Fairies & Cherries, Leigh Ellwood Spellfire Seasons A Stature For All Seasons, Mae Powers Spellfire Hearts Drifting Desires, Leanne Strange
Spellfire Moons Moonshyne, Jewel Adams
NEW STORIES Grolim, Bridghid Parkinson Nymph Gardens and Elfen Moons, Jewel Adams Shadows & Darkness, Mae Powers Plus: Jewel Adams, Beach Party Story, Moonshyne's Treasure Hunt ADDITIONAL BONUS The Official Compendium of Spellfire, Texas A who's who, a what's what, and a were's where?
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Spellfire Commemorative
From
Sinful Sundaes 1 Fridae: Fairies & Cherries by Leigh Ellwood How does a sexy Faerie exact justice from a lovely driver whose ice cream company is committing copyright infringement? One orgasm at a time! http://www.leighellwood.com
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Fridae: Fairies & Cherries by Leigh Ellwood Sorry, babe, looks like you drew the short Popsicle stick again. Jewlie shook the echo of phlegm-choked laughter from her mind. Always, she was stuck with this route. Always, the other drivers managed to arrange it so that only she made deliveries along what had been coined the Highway to Hell. Spellfire, while hardly reeking of the stench of brimstone, gave Jewlie the creeps. There was something peculiar, something so Munsters about the town that she could not quite discern, though the place looked like any other hamlet on her rout. Her stomach roiled at the mere thought of going there again and again. She couldn’t believe one tiny shop sold so much ice cream that she had to come so often. Thankfully, this week’s load was lighter than usual, and if Sinful Sundaes had sufficient help in collecting their order, she could be out of town and on her way to the next stop within the hour. She sighed with defeat as the truck rumbled past the patchwork sign welcoming her to Spellfire. Most hamlets on her delivery route had similar signs, bearing badges for the Knights of Columbus, the local Moose Lodge, and the Masons. Spellfire didn’t seem fit to advertise any such civic organizations, taking care instead to inform newcomers that the town headquartered the International Elizabeth Montgomery Fan Club, the Sisters of Salem Local #420, and another club whose coat of arms depicted a sabre-toothed wolf devouring a bug-eyed weasel, or something. Jewlie never bothered to slow down to confirm; this time, as she always did, she focused on the road, and her job. 13
Spellfire Commemorative The sooner she got to Sinful Sundaes, the sooner she could have their standing order of fifty vats of ice cream unloaded. The sooner this light on the intersection of Bates and Transylvania changed— Jewlie snorted at the eerie appropriateness of the town’s street names—the closer she would get to the store, to unload the ice cream, to hand the creepy lady owner her invoice, and get out of town. Rather, though, than see any of that happening in the next thirty seconds, Jewlie was forced to idle the truck on the white line as a menagerie of Spellfire folk paraded across the street. They looked harmless and inconspicuous enough in jeans and T-shirts, blouses and long skirts, but something about the townsfolk bothered Jewlie. It wasn’t something she could see or name outright; it seemed to her every native she encountered, every smile aimed in her direction, gave off an underlining, mischievous aura. It seemed as if the entire town was in on one grand in-joke, and she was the butt. A great big, J-Lo butt. Jewlie felt silly enough in the uniform she had to wear—the pink blouse with Peter Pan collar, the pointed cap with the jingle bell on the end which flopped about her head like a deflated, tinkling breast. She didn’t need the added anxiety this town contributed to her growing paranoia. And she definitely didn’t need this bozo in the puffy Jerry Seinfeld shirt and tight black pants planted in the middle of the road, facing the idled truck with a scowl and an exaggerated pirate’s stance. “What the…?” The light turned green. He didn’t budge. Jewlie scowled and tapped the horn. Clearly, he was a deaf bozo, too. “Move, guy,” she muttered. She squinted past the glare cast through the windshield and got a good look at the tall blond, but the next curse died in her throat as her lips parted. He was a gorgeous bozo. Jewlie took in the man’s shoulderlength blond hair, lined with a few braided strands, sculpted cheeks and chin, and ocean blue eyes that seemed to pierce her soul. They were doing something else to her, too. Jewlie squirmed in her seat as a growing want warmed her pussy and soaked her panties. Never before had a man prompted such a lustful reaction that quickly. Made sense, considering the sweaty, toothless drivers with whom she worked were the only men she saw on a daily basis. 14
Spellfire Commemorative Jewlie rolled down the driver’s side window just as he rounded the steaming front grill, his fists still pinned to his hips. Was this how Yul Brynner used to walk, so formidable and masculine? Her fingers trembled as she gripped the door, and she immediately felt silly for her fear. What could this man possibly do to her, aside from causing her clit to explode with desire? He was well on the way to doing that, yet the serious look on his face told Jewlie that the man was not out for a pleasure stroll. Despite the rush of desire she felt, she knew she was protected in the cab of the truck. Logically, since he was out of the way, she knew she should be pushing past the green light to make her delivery. Why did she remain idle? Maybe she wanted another look, so he could finish the job, and she could orgasm? Then she could deliver the shipment, meet the creepy lady owner, yada-yada-yada. But, please, let the orgasm come first. It had been so long since Jewlie had experienced one that hadn’t involved something made in Taiwan that required AA batteries. She coughed as an exhaust cloud wafted upward. The stench of burning fuel nauseated her, but the pirate pedestrian appeared unaffected. “You are to cease immediate the delivery of Fairy Belle Ice Cream,” he demanded. “What?” Who was this guy? Why did all the good-looking ones have to be nuttier than the vat of butter pecan cooling in the refrigerated truck? He arched an eyebrow, and his lips twitched. Jewlie gunned the motor in protest. As annoyed as she was with this man, she was more annoyed with herself for imagining those same lips pursed around her clit and pulling it deep into his mouth. She was going to have to spend some quality time sitting on a vat of cherry vanilla to cool down her pussy when this confrontation ended. “This is a Fairy Belle delivery truck, is it not?” His deep voice sent a ripple down Jewlie’s back that circled her waist and shot upward, prickling her nipples. Surely now, she looked even more ridiculous in her uniform. Jewlie straightened in her seat and steeled herself not to produce any more lustful thoughts. Do your job, she told herself, and put the truck into gear. She had ice cream to deliver. 15
Spellfire Commemorative When she turned back to the road, however, she found a line of Spellfire folk—Spellfirians, Spellfirettes, whatever they called themselves—blocking the crosswalk and crowded on both street corners, watching the exchange. The stoplight had cycled through a second time, yet no car horns sounded in protest. Everybody was watching the show, and Jewlie was the inadvertent star. She wouldn’t be leaving Spellfire anytime soon. Shit. “Is this not,” the man repeated slowly, as if addressing a child, “a Fairy Belle truck?” “What’s it to you?” Jewlie barked. So what if he was gorgeous, and so what if all Jewlie could think about was this puffy shirt guy pressing her against the cold truck panel and pounding his cock into her aching core, he was obviously a troublemaker...and blind. How could anyone with eyesight not see the gigantic Fairy Belle logo on the side of the truck? How could anyone not miss the image of the waif-like brunette pixie in gold short shorts and halter top, seductively licking a triple scoop cone of red, white, and blue creams? Fairy Belle feeds America well read the glittery red slogan underneath the company’s soft-core mascot. Jewlie thought the image demeaning, and had to question the ethics behind using such a mascot to advertise to children, yet her opinion was in the minority. If she hated the logo so much, why not quit and drive for somebody else, she had been asked time and again. Jewlie sighed and looked balefully at her captor. Why indeed? For all her grumbling about Fairy Belle, they were a good company, the leading brand of dairy dessert products in the region. The benefits and pay were too good to pass. “You will cease delivery of this product immediately,” the puffy shirt said. It would appear that I already have. Jewlie rolled her eyes. He was gorgeous, but his demeanor was fast overlapping his more attractive qualities. Did he represent a competing brand? Fairy Belle had more than its share of detractors—the big player on the block usually did. She smirked. “Are you Ben or Jerry?” She was pleased that she was able to disguise her lust with the sarcasm. The blond stretched his lips into a smile that could have melted Sinful Sundaes’ entire standing order. “I am Kor,” he said. Jewlie’s 16
Spellfire Commemorative own core melted as well. She could feel her pussy lips swell and throb with anticipation. “Kor.” She tested the word on her tongue. It was harsh and rough, likely as rough as the large hands now steepled at Kor’s broad chest. Coupled with the devilish glint in his eyes, he struck a comical, movie villain pose. Kor. Jewlie had not heard of such a brand name for dairy desserts. Regardless of who he was, and how prominent the bulge in his pants appeared, Jewlie could not let this charade continue. “Well, Kor,” she tested the harsh syllable that was his name, “I’m sorry, but I answer only to the Fairy Belle Corporation. Unless you have some kind of affidavit, or cease and desist order...” Or whatever it was that was needed to stop operations...Jewlie didn’t know. She didn’t care. She had her fun ogling the cute, crazy guy, but she had a job to do. She’d be nuttier than a prepackaged Fairy Belle Nutty Sundae Delight cone to want to hook up with anybody from here, anyway, even for a quickie. Forget it, no point in bothering to keep talking. She reached for the gear shift, and grunted with growing exertion as she discovered it wouldn’t budge. The stick protruding from the steering column felt as if it had been plunged into quick-dry cement. Jewlie pulled with all her strength, certain she would break it off. “Come on,” she cursed, hearing the stick crack. Then the engine died on her. Jewlie cranked the key but wasn’t even greeted with the requisite hum of a wheezing engine. A loud click caught her attention and her head snapped back to the door. It had unlocked on its own. The truck didn’t have power locks. Kor remained still, but his hands were raised now, poised over his head, conducting the chaos to come. Jewlie didn’t like the look on his face. The actual face, yes… Ugh. It had been way too long since she had a good deep-dicking. She was supposed to be mad at this guy for stalling her, though she felt angrier that he wasn’t stalling her in a more pleasurable way. The door opened by itself, and as Jewlie attempted to reach for the handle she discovered she, too, couldn’t budge. “What the…?” She was frozen, able only to turn her head and witness her fate. This man, this…Kor, had put some kind of spell on her. What else could explain this? What else could explain the mild 17
Spellfire Commemorative indifference of the gathering crowd of onlookers, all of whom had clearly chosen to watch instead of help? Come on, Jewlie silently willed the bystanders. I’m the ice cream lady, I’m the good guy. She knew there was something about this town, these people. They were all indifferent to strangers, or so bored with their lives that they felt they had to be apathetic in order to be entertained. Or, maybe this was some kind of protest against big corporations edging into little towns. That explained the lack of Starbucks and Panera Bread. She gasped as Kor eyed her with delicious mischief, the way a dieter off the wagon might eye a triple fudge parfait. Jewlie could feel her own blood sugar skyrocket into her brain; she was floating inside her skin, wanting an anchor, wanting to be boarded by this pirate. Arrrr! It appeared she would soon get that wish. Kor’s hands lowered and his fingers splayed in her direction, well-timed with a rumbling sensation that started in her abdomen and spread through her limbs and buttocks. The overall effect was frightening, but the vibrations caused her pussy to melt, and that feeling was too delightful to protest. She tried to scream, but her protest spilled forth instead into a pleasured moan. The seatbelt came free, and the strap disentangled itself from her body. The hat slipped from her head and tinkled sadly to the floor. Pink pearl buttons popped free from her blouse, revealing lacy white cups concealing ample, creamy breasts. Slowly her body moved, pushed by an invisible force across the bench seat to the other side of the spacious cab. Jewlie was pressed against the cold steel of the opposite door as Kor leaped forward into the cab and waved his hands once again. The door slammed shut behind him, the locks engaged, the dome light extinguished. Jewlie’s gaze panned the cab windows. All eyes were upon them, faces without emotion, watching and waiting… Kor produced a cell phone from an unseen pocket and dialed three numbers. “I am Kor,” he announced in that sexy, sundae-melting voice. “I’ve taken a hostage.” **** “Say what?” Kor smiled. “What,” he said. 18
Spellfire Commemorative Jewlie shook her head. It was the only thing she could still do, as Kor’s magical hold had yet to loosen. “It’s an expression,” she sighed. “It means say it again.” “It again.” Kor leaned back against the driver door and propped a booted foot on the bench. The opposite knee wavered lazily back forth under the steering column. Every now and again Jewlie could catch a glimpse of an impressive bulge tenting the crotch of Kor’s pants. She blew away a strand of hair brushing across her nose, making it itch. As soon as she was free of this unseen bondage, she would knee this bozo in the groin. Never mind that she wouldn’t have minded fondling it first. “Who were you calling just now?” “Why, the media,” Kor said innocently. “Standard procedure when taking a hostage.” The media had one central number? Jewlie wasn’t buying it. “Of course, and what was that about taking me as a hostage again?” she asked through gritted teeth. “Ah, yes.” Kor chuckled and tapped idly at the wheel. “That is correct. You are to remain my hostage until the Fairy Belle Corporation agrees to my demands. I apologize it must come to this, but your employers have not been very cooperative. Yes,” he stretched and gave Jewlie a marvelous view of fabric stretched over taut arm and chest muscles, “once Fairy Belle agrees to cease use of the name and logo you will be free.” Oh, please. “Look, buddy, it didn’t work with Disney and it’s not going to work with some small time operator like you.” Jewlie knew her bravado might have had more impact were she not directing this statement at Kor’s crotch, which was anything but small time. She silently cursed her raging hormones and glanced out the window. Why wasn’t anybody helping? Why were people positioning lawn chairs among the now still traffic? Why wasn’t Kor making a move? “What’s your beef with Fairy Belle, anyway?” “Their improper and unauthorized use of my sister’s name and likeness,” Kor said evenly. He appeared to be sizing the interior of the cab, planning something. “Your sister?” “Fairy Belle. My sister, a faerie.” 19
Spellfire Commemorative Jewlie’s eyes widened. Nuttier than a slice of Fairy Belle Carrot Cake Surprise Ice Cream Torte, this man was. “Your sister is a fairy,” she said, incredulous. “And she’s also lactose tolerant.” Kor pinched the bridge of his nose. “Nor does she dress like a two-bit whore, as your company implies in its advertising. That’s what makes this whole thing all the more frustrating.” “A real fairy? Wings, the tinkling bells, the fairy dust and all that?” “No.” Kor rolled his eyes. “Faerie. She is fay, from Faerie,” he said, and spelled it out for Jewlie. “We are a race of beings more gifted and culturally enhanced than you humans.” “Excuse me?” Jewlie raised an eyebrow, but she still couldn’t move her hands. “You can’t just make a blanket statement like that. I mean, humans are gifted and culturally enhanced, too.” Was she really having this conversation? “Look at all our technological advancements. We have the Internet, we cure diseases...look at this truck! Two hundred years ago I couldn’t ferry ice cream in an ox cart and get it to people still frozen. Let the faeries top that!” “You also have reality shows and spoiled, attention-getting heiresses.” Kor rolled his eyes. “I’d say two steps back for every leap forward.” Jewlie had no response to that; Kor did have a point. All of a sudden, however, another issue crossed her mind. “Uh,” she tried to shift and was still unnerved to be frozen, “okay, you ‘called the media’ and all, but how does loosening my blouse fit into your plan?” She willed the blouse to refasten itself, and cursed her body for succumbing to her urges. Jewlie tried to remain defiant, but it seemed difficult to have much credibility when her nipples threatened to poke through her bra. Kor chuckled. “You challenge the fay folk to top your progress of refrigerated delivery trucks and spam e-mail, I say fair enough.” He waved a hand in circular motion. Jewlie watched in awe as the back panel of the cab rippled, as if turned into liquid, then gasped as Kor stuck his hand through the truck. Seconds later he plucked a pint of ice cream meant for another delivery and studied the label. “Did you just put your hand through the truck?” Jewlie cried.
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Spellfire Commemorative Kor ignored the question. “Cherry Delight, my favorite,” he said with a tinge of sarcasm, and tore off the lid. “One thing your company manages to do well.” “What the...” Jewlie looked at the back panel. It was solid again. She looked back at Kor. “How did you...? How?” “It would appear the fay folk spent the centuries perfecting our own advances instead of developing television shows that feature people eating bugs for cash prizes. One thing we do well,” he held up the pint, “is magic.” “Really? What else?” Jewlie looked around the cab. The windows were fogging. And before she realized it, another wave of Kor’s hand sent her clothes to the floor with her hat. She was naked, and still, and completely aroused. Every nerve ending stood to attention, ready to comply to this Faerie’s command. “The other thing we do well,” Kor supplied with a wicked grin, “is lovemaking.” **** Yes! What, no! Well... By no will of her own, Jewlie’s wrists came together, as if bound by invisible cuffs, and were raised above her head so that they were pinned against the roof of the cab. Her breasts bobbed slightly, her nipples tightened with anticipation. She watched Kor trace the rim of the opened ice cream carton. Was he planning to slather her nude body with Fairy Belle Cherry Delight and lick away every last, milky drop? Was he thinking instead he would turn his cock into an ice cream pop and urge her to quit her diet? Whatever he intended, why was he taking so damn long doing it? The temperature in the cab had dropped, as indicated by a myriad of goose pimples covering her body. Kor, however, looked comfortable in his pseudo-pirate costume, as much as he did eyeing Jewlie’s body with approval. “Why are you doing this?” Jewlie wanted to know, her voice a whimper. Kor plunged a finger into the cream and scooped a dollop, studying it before sucking it off his finger. “A Faerie’s got to be entertained somehow while waiting for his demands to be met,” he 21
Spellfire Commemorative said finally. “If, as you say, Fairy Belle is inflexible in negotiations, I plan to be here a while, as should you. And I don’t see a television anywhere in here to watch, not that I’d care to see who gets voted off an elevator, or whatnot.” “No, I meant why are you doing this, making me wait? Why aren’t you fucking me?” Jewlie wanted to shrink back into the bench seat and disappear, fade away into a puff of cold air. She couldn’t believe she had said that out loud, to a stranger, while bound naked in her own delivery truck. Truth be told, however, the cold hardly affected her pussy, which felt on fire for this man. It amazed her how much she wanted this man, her captor, a man she should be cursing with every breath. She wanted to sheath this man, this Faerie, in her hungry, throbbing core, and feel him pulse into her until the truck’s shocks exploded. She wanted to block out the cold air, the controversy of infringed copyright, the whirr of helicopters overhead... Helicopters? She squinted past the veneer of fog covering the windshield. Great, the media had arrived. Jewlie couldn’t discern any call letters, but it was a sure bet WSPL Action News was hovering overhead, panning close for a glimpse of her pink-tipped breasts and shaved pussy. Kidnapped ice cream delivery driver gets a double scoop surprise, film at eleven. Right. She hadn’t been offered a tiny sample spoon yet. A tingling sensation coursed through her veins, and Jewlie felt her body give. Save for the pinned wrists, she could move again. She writhed in place and spread her legs to get the blood circulating again. That was her excuse, anyway. She really wanted to show this gorgeous Faerie what he was missing by stalling. She wanted him to see her swollen labia, her glistening slit, and tempt him away from the ice cream for a taste of Jewlie Delight. Kor flashed her another wicked smile. “Comfortable?” Jewlie’s answer was to nudge Kor’s thigh with a brightly-painted, pointed toe. She stroked upward until she hit cock, then stroked some more. “I will say this,” Kor said, “you’re a very cooperative hostage.” He scooped another bite of ice cream and topped each toe, then cupped Jewlie’s heel in hand and sucked each digit clean. “A delicious one as well.” 22
Spellfire Commemorative “Always willing to take one for the team,” Jewlie murmured, so long as the team wasn’t comprised of her chucklehead co-workers. “So you know, some parts taste better than others.” “We’ll see about that.” Out came the chirping cell phone and Kor spoke in a clipped tone. “Any word yet?” he barked into the receiver, then smiled. “Good. I’ll wait.” Jewlie blinked, surprised to see that the phone had suddenly turned into a can of maraschino cherries. How did that happen? “Like magic,” she whispered. “Like?” Kor tut-tutted, shaking his head. “My dear, you have a lot to learn about being a hostage. This is magic. As is this.” A snap of the fingers popped an aerosol can of whipped cream into his other hand. Yummy. Jewlie thanked the stars she had no dairy allergies. Kor crawled closer to Julie, shaking the whipped cream can. The loud sucking sound absorbed the sound of their heavy breathing as Kor covered each of Jewlie’s breasts with the cream, creating two spiraled pyramids. He topped each mound with a cherry, then leaned back to admire his handiwork. Good enough to eat. Yet Jewlie wondered why Kor wasn’t indulging. “Don’t tell me you’re lactose intolerant, too.” “No, just think I’d like to start with something sweeter.” Kor set the pint between Jewlie’s legs and barely brushed the carton against her parted pussy lips. The chilled sensation was delightful, but did nothing to suppress her desire. When Kor tipped the carton toward her and let a stream of melted ice cream drip down her pussy, she wanted to cry. Pure torture, this was, no way to treat a prisoner. Amnesty International would hear about this, to say nothing of the dairy board. Finally Kor set the pint on the dashboard and dipped his head low. One broad stroke of the tongue lapped up most of the cream, and Kor licked his lips. “Yes,” he growled, “very sweet.” He bent down again and, parting Jewlie’s cleft with two cold fingertips, suckled her pussy. Jewlie writhed in his oral hold, moaning with every touch of his tongue to her labia. When his lips pursed around her clit and pulled slightly she thought she would go mad. To think this morning she had been angry to draw the short Popsicle stick...if the guys in dispatch only knew. The stick she saw bulging in Kor’s pants was anything but. 23
Spellfire Commemorative “Yes,” Kor kissed into her pussy, “you’re being very cooperative. I think negotiations are going to go very well.” “Yes,” Jewlie sighed, then gasped as Kor’s tongue swirled around her clit in rapid circles. A slow burn smoldered in her core, building as the pressure to her clit increased, until finally Jewlie sensed an eruption was imminent. As the first orgasm hit Jewlie bucked her hips forward, but Kor stayed with her. He dipped lower to lap up her pussy juice and teased her slit with a few broad licks. Never before had Jewlie felt such a sugar rush. Kor then kissed a trail up Jewlie’s quivering abdomen. “You will cease delivery of Fairy Belle Ice Cream to Spellfire.” “Yes.” His mouth took possession of one breast, but not before he sucked in the cherry. The sensation tickled her, delighted her, made Jewlie wish Kor had drawn whipped cream trails over other parts of her body and created an edible road map to devour. She’d have no qualms about taking that kind of trip. His tongue teased that cream-covered nipple, bit lightly and sucked it in deep before releasing it with a light pop. “Your company will cease the use of the Fairy Belle name and logo bearing any likeness to the real Fairy Belle.” “Yes,” Jewlie moaned. She had no idea how she could make that happen, but if Kor kept going she’d find a way. She’d infiltrate the unions, rally the workers to a slowdown, chain herself to the CEO’s desk in protest...so long as Kor. Did. Not. Stop. He feasted on the other breast. “Your company will issue a written apology to Fairy Belle for sullying her image.” “Yes.” Sullying was bad. Soooo bad. Jewlie looked down the length of Kor’s body. Somewhere in the course of Kor’s dessert his puffy shirt and pants had disappeared, granting her full view of rippled muscles taut under smooth, tanned skin. Smoother than a butterscotch malt, leaner than a low-carb fruit pop. Infinitely more delicious. The tip of his bulging cock bobbed right at the entrance to her channel, teasing her pussy lips and raising her desire. She felt ready to melt into a puddle. Kor cuffed his cock in one hand and tweaked her nipple with the other. He guided his cock closer to her, and traced the edge of her 24
Spellfire Commemorative slippery core. “You will comply with all of my demands,” he ordered softly. “I will.” He braced one knee against the bench seat and eased slowly insider her. Jewlie delighted in the new sensation, the way his engorged cock filled her. She watched as he slowly disappeared inside her, and marveled at the realization of it. Let Fairy Belle hem and haw in their corporate offices, she could wait. Kor pumped in and out of her pussy, two short thrusts followed by one longer one. “And, after your superiors have finally seen reason and surrendered what is rightfully our...” He pivoted his hips. Jewlie felt the change in thrust clear to her toes. Yes... “...you will get rid of that ridiculous, stereotypical fairy uniform...” A kiss on the breastbone, then a series of lighter brushes across her jawline. Another orgasm bubbled deep within her. Yes... “...and come work for me.” Kor punctuated this final order with one long, hard thrust, so deep Jewlie thought Kor might tear through her. Instead she shuddered as the next orgasm crashed over her, timed with a bellowing roar from her partner, and she thrashed back into the passenger side window, not feeling a thing. “Yes!” she cried. Yes! Yes! Yes... What? “What?” she echoed on the trip back to Earth. The cab was spinning. Condensation streaked the windows around them, creating long, crooked fingers through which Jewlie spied many cheering faces and applauding hands. Good night, had they just received a standing ovation? The sound of choppers returned in full force now as Jewlie realized where she was, and what she had been doing. She had just fucked a stranger in her truck...in the middle of town...a stranger who now ostensibly was her boss. She felt a tingling in her hands, and discovered the invisible bond was gone. Jewlie rubbed her wrists and tried to focus on the panting, naked man now reclining against the opposite window. “You want me to what now?” she gasped, dizzy. Kor held up a finger as a familiar chime vibrated in the air. His cell phone materialized in hand. “Yes,” he answered curtly, and smiled. “Excellent,” he drawled, “we’ll see you in Faerie anon. 25
Spellfire Commemorative “Your former employers have acquiesced,” he informed Jewlie as he righted himself on the bench. Turning the key that had given her problems, Kor easily turned over the engine and set the truck to idle. “We have regained control of my sister’s name and image, and you,” he winked, “have a new job.” “I do?” So much for giving Fairy Belle, or whatever they would be called now, two weeks notice. “Doing what?” Kor put the truck in drive and eased through the parting crowd. Amazing how nobody had protested the traffic jam, and how quickly the lawn chairs and news vans and choppers had disappeared. Life in Spellfire had returned to it normal, creepy self. “Supervising the delivery of our frozen desserts, of course,” he said. “Overseeing trucks to outlets all over Faerie and beyond and making sure stores receive their shipments of Fairy Belle.” “Fairy Belle? So this was all about regaining your sister’s name to sell your own ice cream? I thought she was lactose intolerant.” “It’s all soy-based.” Kor waggled his eyebrows. “Less fat, better for you.” Jewlie noticed they had turned a corner, and she buckled up quickly. She felt weird being naked in a moving truck, but at least a Spellfire cop could cite her for a seatbelt violation. “Yeah, but you can still gain weight with non-dairy desserts.” “Not in Faerie,” Kor smiled. “We have ways of burning calories.” And Jewlie’s skin prickled again, though the cab was much warmer. “I see,” she said, “and will we be burning many calories together in the future.” In the distance a large, swirling portal on the intersection of Transylvania and Mockinbird opened to reveal the road to what Jewlie figured had to be Faerie. Kor aimed in the truck in that direction as his hand came off the gear shift to caress her thigh. “But of course,” he said. “One of the many fringe benefits of working for Fairy Belle.” Jewlie smiled. Unlimited sixty-nine in lieu of a 401K suited her just fine. The End
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Spellfire Commemorative
From
Spellfire Seasons A Statue For All Seasons by Mae Powers For over a hundred years Georgiano McMillan’s spirit was cursed into a statue that stood in the middle of Spellfire Park, season after season. He hated Christmas and never thought his curse would ever be lifted, until the town librarian shed her inhibitions late one wintry night.
www.maepowers.com
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Spellfire Commemorative
A Statue For All Seasons By Mae Powers Geo couldn’t believe what he was waking up to. After decades of being teased during the Christmas holiday seasons, some one was doing something to his cock other than putting tinsel on his shaft or hanging bells on his balls. What with all those blasted pubescent kids putting tinsel and bells all over his granite genitals, it made his statute form look silly. For nearly one hundred years, Geovani “Geo” Leone McMillan hated Christmas. It was more than a humbug feeling for him. If he could feel everything that went on around him his curse would have been much worse. The problem was that most did it during the December holidays, when he came awake completely for one day out of the year – from midnight on Christmas Eve until midnight on Christmas Day. Geo could see everything going on in town, during those long frustrating twenty-four hours. Sometimes, his mind vaguely awoke, but mostly when Frightful Frieda was around. She’d come around to taunt him sometimes over the years, until these last two decades and now she barely glanced his way. When she left him, he would be awake for a few hours afterwards and see what was going on in the paranormal country city of Spellfire. Well as long as it was in the Spellfire Park, town square area. It lay close to the Town Hall and Sinful Sundaes Ice Cream Shoppe, so the things that went on there often amused him. His mind sighed. It was the only part of him that could sense or see anything, when he awoke. 28
Spellfire Commemorative His body stood frozen in marble. And his flesh never touched ground except during the period between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. When no one was in the vicinity mentioning him, he often went back into the deep sleep in his granite form, but if his cock was touched or the spell made him aware of a potential curse breaker, then he came awake for brief moments. However, unless it was the appointed time, he couldn’t get down from his stone pedestal. He hated Christmas and horny, frustrated witches. He heard a soft, grinding, creaky noise. His cock stirred. Geo looked down, more awake now to the present situation. He saw a woman kneeling before him in the thick snow covered ground. Her head was bent towards him. He heard what sounded like a muffled “mmfffmm”. Was she sucking him? He felt the creak in his marble shaft this time. Her head came back and her lips puckered. She kissed his cold cockhead and then she widened her mouth and lathered his large mushroom shaped tip with her tongue and lips. Well by the old bastard bards of Ireland, she was giving him the Devil’s Kiss! And oh, he could feel that cock of his shiver with delight in the cool air. Cool air? Oh that hit him and much more. The more she swallowed him into her mouth, the more his flesh became apparent. Oh, by the ancient gods of Italian lust, he was becoming human once more! Her head bobbed up and down more voraciously. The stone skin encasing his body creaked and started dissipating like melting snow. Then she stopped. His cock froze in solid fleshy stiffness. No! She couldn’t stop now. NOT yet! Oh shit, not now. He was almost … well to his thighs anyway… almost human again. Then he mentally gasped as he saw the woman step back and quickly pulled off her dressy jacket and plain black evening gown. If his eyes weren’t stone and transfixed, he could swear they widened. His mind’s eyes certainly did. She got completely undressed and mounted him. And it startled him inwardly that she didn’t fall or slip and slide on the snow and ice around his statue base. She used his curved arm hold, wrapped herself around him with her legs, and slid a hot wet cunt over his cold but fleshy cock. 29
Spellfire Commemorative Then she fucked him furiously. His stone casing started to heat up, melting away with each heated thrust of her life-giving cunt. Geo grabbed her firmly to him, cupping her delicious feeling derriere within his big hands. He stiffly rocked back and forth. Oh hell, he was getting his first fuck in about a hundred years. She groaned. She hiccupped. Then she passed out on him He groaned, felt his stiffness ebb, felt the cold and wondered what the hell he was going to do with a naked human wrapped in his arms while they were both still standing on the stony pedestal. He heard voices in the distance. He jumped down from the pedestal, and was relived he didn’t slip and fall with the woman he held close, but had slowly slid off his throbbing cock. Hell and damnation. He slung the woman over his shoulders and moved as quickly as he could, while holding her and gathering up her clothes, before escaping behind the building nearest the statue base. He knew it was the library, but didn’t care. No one was bound to see them there. He glanced over his shoulder, and though he moved stiffly, he got behind the old library before he was spotted with a naked woman on his shoulder or worse, him running naked through the park. She was still passed out. He felt the chill in the air invading his open flesh. The winds of a Texas winter were biting. He glanced at the back door and hoped it would be easy to open. Though fairly modern, it was still a building from the previous decade. “Oh…good, work…” her head bobbed up and her oval face bore a haphazard smile. Then her head drooped again. He glanced at her and realized where he recalled seeing her. This was the town librarian. One Christmas she shooed some kids away from him and took off the degrading holiday ornaments. He remembered how her hand touched his shaft and for a brief moment, he’d seen her lovely face. In that split second, it felt like the stone around his heart cracked to a sliver. He glanced from her to the building again. There was nothing on the back door. It took his unfreezing brain a second or two to recall that most doors in Spellfire didn’t need locks. The town was protected against most thieves. A few thieves had some, how gotten into stores and shops over the years, but not too many. He figured the town let them, only because it had a reason for doing so. 30
Spellfire Commemorative The door creaked as it slowly swung opened. He fumbled in the dark, but found a door open to his right. He shuffled in and saw that it must be some kind of room people could relax in. Light from a dim source allowed him to make out objects. Looked like a sofa and a table and chair set in the room. He laid her upon the couch, thinking that maybe this was where the library employees took their breaks. Although his era was from the early 1900s he listened when he was awaken, and learned about new contraptions. In addition, he’d remembered it all. He fumbled around and flipped on a light switch. Glancing around quickly, he saw that indeed it was an employee lounge. Then he looked at the woman on the sofa, huddling up against her pile of squished clothing. She looked different without glasses on and her hair piled up on top of her head; or without her regular clothing. His beautiful librarian. No, the town librarian. The current one anyway. The others were ghosts or had left this gawd-forsaken spook town. Perhaps he shouldn’t feel that way about it, since it was his home, now. She stirred and he scrutinized her more carefully. What had this long, languid beauty been doing sucking on a cold stone cock? He ached with need, long overdue, desperate need and fulfillment. His eyes roamed down her sloping back to her rounded derriere. Her creamy thighs were parted and he could see her mons. She glistened slightly there and he was tempted to go fill that wet warmth. However, the curse wouldn’t allow him, nor would he allow himself. Yes, he was desperate for this nightmare to end, but he couldn’t break it unless the woman offered, or was willing, and she opened her heart to him. Why the hell did curses seem to need being in love to break them? Ok, maybe she needed to at least care about him. It would be fine with him if they didn’t have to live happily ever after. In one hundred years, this inebriated woman was the first to melt his stony exterior. Oh, others touched him and almost pecked his poker, but none ever kissed it or suckled it, as the curse required. He glanced down at the tall red haired beauty and wondered what made her do it. She was probably in her mid to late thirties, yet she looked exceptionally beautiful. And she had a with a wide pink mouth that put life back into his long-ignored cock. Hell, she felt good around him in both ways. Now if he could just get her to finish what she started and of her on free will, he’d be un-cursed in no time! 31
Spellfire Commemorative But here wasn’t the place to do that. He glanced around the room again and let out a sigh of relief. On the coat pegs next to the wall hung a long overused overcoat and some oversized galoshes stood beneath it. So he was lucky, it was about time. He went over and quickly took the trench coat down, and slipped it and the boots on. They both were slightly snug, but covered the necessary essentials and would stave off the cold winter night. He moved back over to the woman and glanced at her jacket. He bent down and retrieved the jacket, fumbling through her pockets. He found her evening bag and opened it up, flipping through her stuff inside. Coins, keys, and yes, identification. He pulled out ID and glanced at it. Lillia West. 4848 Twisted Lane #4, Spellfire, TX…hmm, he thought, that wasn’t too far from the library. He’d heard of its location, mentioned over the years, Twisted Lane that is. He put the ID back in the bag and that back in her jacket. Then he proceeded to dress Ms. Lillia West. It wasn’t easy, considering his schlong still ached for release. That though would have to wait, unfortunately, until he took his sweet librarian back to her place. He just hoped he made it there without encountering anyone, especially Frightful Frieda. **** Lillia West was having a marvelous dream. No, her subconscious corrected, a simply irresistibly, fucking good dream. She was hot and horny from the dream, and a little cool. That part she didn’t understand. She was leaving the official Town Hall employees annual Christmas party, which was always on Christmas Eve, quite tipsy and not in the best of moods. Perry announced to all that Frieda was now going to be the new Head Librarian. That old bitch didn’t know how to wear modern lingerie, much less put books correctly on shelves. And was Lillia ever pissed. She got so friggin mad she needed to curtail her emotions and her natural powers. So instead, she’d gotten drunk. Rip roaring, nearly plastered to the wall, drunk. Then Frightful Frieda started acting snotty and frustrating, Lillia ended up storming out of the Town Hall diner. She’d been furious and then she bumped into the statue of Horny Geo. Then she sat on the nearest bench and talked to him, just as she did on other lonely, but less frustrating holidays. Only this time, her mind recalled fuzzily, she told him how well he was hung and that at least he didn’t back stab her and mock 32
Spellfire Commemorative her, or belittle her like some people did. And that he deserved a kiss for that. Only she couldn’t reach his face to kiss him. So, she’d kissed him in a different place. And her mind wandered to that big long cock and wondered what it would be like to taste it if it were real. So she sucked him and then she’d wondered what it would be like if he were real and what it would be like to fuck him. Oh she was so horny herself, just looking at his magnificent body. It didn’t bother her at the time how ludicrous or pathetic she might look. Instead, she suckled him, got horny herself, thrust off all her clothes, got up on the statue, and slid herself onto his cock. Then she screwed him and had been having the best fuck of her life. Then darkness and the chill came back. Vaguely she recalled the library and now she smiled as she saw his face before her. Mmm, so nice to look at with no stone covering his tall lean body. She reached out to her imaginary lover and he approached her. His smile was infectious and so was that damn beautiful hard-on of his. His hand closed over hers and she jerked him down on top of her. She wanted to finish what they started earlier. Her pussy was wet with need. She wanted him and by the feel of his cock poking against her, he wanted her too. Lillia let him slide between her thighs, and as he slid into her she could feel coolness and warmth all in the same moment, but she shivered from desire and wanting completion, instead of the weather or his former stony skin. He moved above her fast and furious and she pushed up against him, meeting him thrust for thrust. He groaned out his need for completion just as she did and moments later he collapsed against her sweating and satisfied, she knew. After all, it had probably been at least a hundred years since her statue lover had fucked. Lillia’s eyes opened wide and her vision cleared. Lying above her was the real form of Horny Geo. She opened her mouth to scream and would have let out a blood-curdling one, but his hand came over her mouth. She jerked beneath him and finally managed to thrust him off of her. Lil backed up against the headboard and took in the naked, sated man half sitting, and half lying on her bed. It hadn’t been a dream. She’d actually been making out with Leo McMillan, the statue, no, the real thing in irresistible flesh. “Don’t scream, lady, I mean Lillia. I ain’t here to harm you.” 33
Spellfire Commemorative “No just take advantage of me.” She jerked the covers up around her and didn’t like the way he half leered at her. “I can’t believe I got so plastered I screwed a statue!” He sat back down and she could tell he was surprised at her words. “You know about my curse?” “I’ve been the librarian of the paranormal section for twenty years. Only person that probably knows more about the curses this town is hiding is Electra Spellfire and Frightful Frieda Farthington.” “Yeah but she couldn’t free me. She tried about ten years ago.” She tilted her head to one side. “I don’t believe Electra would screw you in public.” “No she’s too classy for that. Mentally spoke with her on Christmas that year and she tried to get Frieda to free me. It didn’t go to well. Hadn’t found a willing person to give me the first kiss or mount me like you did. I am still shocked.” “But not so much you couldn’t wait to get me in the sack without my permission.” His chagrined look made her heart tighten. “Well you started it. I mean I’ve seen you around and you’ve set on the bench near my statue base and yakked at me when you thought no one was around. I’m sorry, but being in the heat of the moment and having a chance to finally get out of this curse really was foremost. You’d feel the same too if you’d been in my shoes. And you grabbed me this second time too.” She vaguely recalled doing as he mentioned. She’d grabbed him in her dreams and pressed him to fuck her. “Okay, I’ll concede to all that. Damn this is the most unusual Christmas Day I’ve ever experienced. Even in Spellfire.” “Mine have been such for nearly a hundred years.” His chagrined smile caught at her heart. Hell, she thought I’m in predicament now. “What the hell am I going to do with you?” He pulled part of the covers around himself. “Could you help me to find a way to end this friggin curse? Frieda put a spell on the curse to make it where only I could be freed if I willingly screwed her or someone suckled my staff, followed by mounting me in public, but there’s more to reversing the curse that is hidden thanks to her damn cunning.” 34
Spellfire Commemorative She let out a sigh and looked him over carefully. Here she was sitting in her bed talking to an ex-statue as if it were the most normal thing in the world. And in a way it was. Spellfire probably possessed more secrets and cursed people than Washington DC. Her senses were coming slowly back to her, and now she really checked him out. She’d seen pictures of his real form in the old library archives, before he’d been spelled by Frieda Faraday-Farthington. That bitch, even though she looked only in her early forties, was one of the oldest people in Spellfire, and a pretty damn powerful witch whose curses were hard to break. Only a few people stood up to Frieda, and besides herself, one of the most powerful beings in town was Electra Spellfire. Frieda hated Electra, though the two often crossed paths socially. In addition, Frieda wanted the job as head Librarian for sometime now. Since the bitch had the mayor, Perry Normil, under her thumb, she’d finally gotten it this year; probably by threatening all who were opposed to her. Since Electra had been out of town with some of her friends, Frieda had been adept at slowly getting her way. Lillia would keep her posts in the archives, but she actually wanted out and to start doing more with the library. However, the job went to the wicked witch of Texas, and mostly cause she turned down a threesome with Frieda and Perry. Bastards. She’d get even with them. She might not be as powerful as Frieda, Electra and some of the other magical folks in town, but she wasn’t one to be totally trifled with either. Again, she looked at the tall, athletically built man. His light blonde hair lay in shaggy waves around his face, and his golden stubby beard was attractive in a way. His nipples were dark against his pale body and she could feel her wet thighs creaming more at the thought of bedding him again. She liked the way his aqua blue eyes were mixed with both passion and worry. It made him human. It made her heart melt. It made her want to get revenge on Frieda. She cocked her head to one side and asked, “Just why did you turn Frieda down? She’s still a looker, and was pretty hot-looking in her earlier days, according to her pictures and some old inhabitants I’ve talked to over the years.” He shifted his bottom and she felt it must be hard to become accustomed to having to sit again. “I liked her sister Fancy better. Those two were always rivals. However, I turned down Fancy too. 35
Spellfire Commemorative They were just too pushy for my tastes then. Of course strong women are more desirable these days, especially ones that know their own minds, but aren’t jerks like some men can be.” She nodded and grinned. “Yeah, even some women can be jerks and full of themselves. I can only believe that they thought the same of you, and you got caught in their sibling rivalry. Only someone temperamental could have brought that upon himself. Turning down both of them, you did have guts, Geo. You must have been furious at their overtures.” “Lillia,” she liked it when he sounded her name with that westernly southern drawl, “I’m Italian-Irish and I’ve been fucking stuck in a friggin stone cold body for nearly a hundred years and a hard on that’s ached for just about that long. Me temperamental? Sure as hell am my dear.” “Geo, you’re still a bit of a jerk I bet. It’s no wonder Frieda spelled you for not sleeping with her.” She laughed despite his frown. “However, she was wrong to do so. I read your history and you didn’t deserve that from her.” His keen eyes were studying her. “I drifted into town looking for some better life. I wasn’t here, but for a few weeks, when Frieda spotted me and started her trouble. With a few months of meeting her, I was a statue. It was a personal hell to be tormented by her when I could only wake between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. But I’ve watched this town grow, and recall seeing you a few times on the bench near my statue base.” She pondered his words and grinned. “I often felt as if you could hear me. I bet you saw a lot that went on during those twenty-four hours.” He nodded. “Quite a bit. It’s been hard, but interesting to see the modern world change so much as the century grew, and listen to others speak about their lives and their passions. Sometimes brief things, other times a whole life of them.” “You deserve to be freed, Geo. There’s got to be a way to completely un-hex you.” “I thought all there was to fixing the curse was having to be taken in public as a stone body. But we never finished completely. I’m still hornier than ever. I won’t force you, Lillia, but if you’d care to reconsider I’d appreciate the gesture.” 36
Spellfire Commemorative She shook her head. “I’m like Electra, I’m not about to screw you in public. I was pretty damn drunk. There’s got to be a way around the curse. It’s not Christmas Day yet.” “Then you must have been a potential curse breaker. I know the recipient must be willing to do it with me completely in public for me to be free.” “Frieda is a kinky bitch, but I’m damn sure she put more strictures on having that curse removed than just a quick fuck in public. We should check the old spell books in the library archives and the cures for curses in the ancient parchments.” His demeanor brightened and that sexy fabulous smile of his widened. “Then you’ll help me?” “We have less than twenty-four hours to get you un-spelled. Since I did kind of uncharm you, the least I can do is to help find a way out of this. However, we have to work hard, because at midnight on Christmas Day you will be back to being a statue again.” “You don’t like Frieda and her cohorts either, do you? “Not one damn bit. No guarantees, Geo. And none of your sexy wiles either. A girl can only take so much of a stiff stud like you.” His sheepish grin made her nervous. He was hiding something, but she’d let it alone for now. “Agreed.” “Good, now let me get a shower and then I’ll find you some clothes to wear while you shower. I think one of my friends might have left some things here that will fit you.” “A beautiful woman like you would have them, I’m sure.” He started to stand up. His magnificent body caused a thrill of desire to wash over her. Oh, she was so tempted to throw him down and ravish him, but something held her back. And despite her sexual need, that overwhelming aspect kept her from letting him ease that deliciously beautiful, hard-on he had jutting out, into her. She removed her covers and naturally preened at the intense interest his body and eyes vibrated with. She flipped her dark red hair off her tanned shoulders. “Thanks, Geo, but not that kind of friend. Look around and I’ll be right back. We’ll get going shortly and find out how we can thwart Frieda at her own game and give that bitch the comeuppance she deserves.” **** Although winter, like most Texas towns, was still warm during some of the seasonal days, today felt cool to him and he noticed for 37
Spellfire Commemorative Lillia too. It had been a long time since he dealt with the weather. Of course, one never knew for sure if a winter day was going to be cold or warm in Texas, especially in the southwestern areas between Houston and Galveston. Lillia took him on a quick tour of the town, plus took him by Sinful Sundaes to get a treat. It was so long since he ate a good meal like hot dogs and an ice-cream sundae. He wasn’t sorry they didn’t run into Frieda or Perry. He’d almost been recognized by a few of the old inhabitants. However Lillia kept close tabs on him and soon they were at the library again. Only this time he wasn’t carrying her in. They’d made sure they weren’t followed, and then they hit the old spell and curse archives to see what the town’s spirit and hex historians had written up about his particular curse. He glanced at her as she poured over parchments, tablets, and books. She was quite lovely and stirred something within his nowwarmed blood. She kept her hair braided back and that’s how he’d remember seeing her over the years. Lovely gray eyes that could see deeply into your soul, warm hands to arouse and comfort, and a generous heart she hid beneath that lonely exterior; and a luscious body she kept hidden beneath layers of business or frumpy clothes. He liked everything he saw about her…and felt about her. He tilted his head to one side as something odd struck him. During the years she’d come to sit near his statue bench at Christmas, and often walked passed him and sat down and ate her lunch or just fed the spellbirds, he’d seemed to be aware of her presence. His heart cracked a bit, just as his stone one did when she’d first humped him. Slowly he rose and moved over to her. As if on cue, her head came up and those large glassy gray eyes captured him completely body and soul. Geo knew now why the curse could not be lifted by anyone else. He was in love with Lillia West! He bent his head and captured her pink, quivering lips. She tasted of creamy fudge and peppermint. It drove his cock to harden more and he ached with desperation only she could fulfill. His kiss deepened as she opened her lips further for his exploration. Her head came back momentarily and he stopped, looking deeply into her eyes. Her eyes twinkled with a knowing glance that she knew what his mind and body were asking of her. Let me make love to you? Let me have you here and now? She slowly rose and tugged off of her thin sweater. Did she want to really, here 38
Spellfire Commemorative and now? Her answer was not verbal; instead, she wrapped her arms around his neck and brought his head down over hers. His mouth bore down on hers; hungry to taste the warm delights her luscious lips offered him. She groaned her need, opening her mouth for him, letting him know she wanted his tongue inside of her, teasing her mouth as if his cock were teasing her cunt. Her arms came up around his back and she jerked herself up as close to him as possible. Oh, he wanted her so badly. He splayed his big hands over the lower part of her back, caressing her with hot touches upon her and even lower. She pushed her pelvic into his crotch. Her heat opened to him, drawing his fires into her clothed warmth. If she didn’t stop them, he knew he wouldn’t be able to halt what would soon happen. However, she didn’t stop them. Instead, she brought his hand down to her warmth. He fumbled with her dress hem and slid his hand under it, finding her core through her thin panties. He loved the new modern underclothing women wore. His fingers slid between her mons, deep into her wet warmth. She was creamy and it thrilled him to know how desperately she wanted him. Her hands roamed his body and his cock hardened even more. His shaft needed release, and so did his soul. They caressed and touched and kissed, all the while pulling clothes off and laying on the table. Naked they rolled and fondled each other intimately. Her hands felt hot on his cock and all over his body. He finally positioned himself between her legs. When she fully opened herself to him, he drove hard and desperately into her. She wrapped her legs around his buttocks and thrust up to meet him. Geo kissed her all over her face, her neck and her lips. He wanted all of her, completely. She cried out his name and her need for him. He did likewise and all the pent up passions that had been denied him over the years burst forth in the most incredible mind blowing orgasm he’d ever experience. Her nails dug into him and she screamed loudly how good her fucking release felt. Spent, and pleased to see she was fulfilled, he half laid over her, while the two of them caught their breath. “You know, you’re pretty damn good for an ex-statue.” He grinned down at her. “Well for a stuffy, witchy historian you’re not so bad yourself.” 39
Spellfire Commemorative She kissed him happily on the nose. “Well as much as I’d like to do that again, this is a bit uncomfortable. Shall we use the restrooms and clean up, and then get back to the books?” With a sigh of regret, he agreed. He followed her to the restrooms and entered the men’s by himself. He was feeling more human as he washed away their make-out evidence from his body. The navy blue colored sweatpants and sweatshirt and canvas shoes she’d found for him to wear fit a bit loose but were comfortable and long enough to cover all of him. He finished cleaning off and then took a nature trip to the john. Relieved, he finished washing up and went back to find her. He started quieting his steps when he heard voices coming from the area of where he’d just left, prior to going to the bathroom, the archive room. “You shouldn’t be here, late like this, Lillia.” He recognized that voice immediately and shivered. That was Frieda. His former tormentor. He had no wish to go up against her right now, but would if she started any trouble for Lillia. “Your duties as head librarian don’t start until after the holidays, Frieda, so get lost.” He liked Lillia’s spunk, but he wasn’t sure if Frieda left. “Take the spell off the library so I can have access to it, Lil.” “I will once you’re head librarian, not before. I’ve got some last minute work to shelve so leave now, Frieda. The library spirits aren’t too happy about your appointment either, so I’d leave if I were you.” “I’ll get you for this, you miserable excuse for a witch.” He heard Frieda’s heeled feet stomping down the hallway. Once he was sure she left, he peeked around the corner to see if Lillia was alone. Thankful she was, he came up to her relieved form. “You okay, doll?” She seemed to purr for him. “I’m fine. Nasty bitch likes to get control when she can. Glad you stayed out of the fire range. Let’s get to finding your complete cure before she comes back and realizes what we are up to. I haven’t heard any reports that she knows you’re around, so let’s keep it that way for now.” “I quite agree.” He followed her to the archive room again, glad that they had the foresight to clean up the area before resuming their search. It was at least another hour or two before she pulled open an old book, flipped it open and let out a whelp of glee. He moved closer 40
Spellfire Commemorative from his set of books to her and glanced down at what she was pointing at. There, within the book, still dark letters, but blotched in a few places was his name listed under curses in the early 1900s. He leaned forward, but kept close to her. Her scent of vanilla spice aroused him, but he kept his eyes on the book and read so that they could concentrate on finding his curse removal. “…and Frieda Faraday-Farthington cursed Giovanni McMillan into statue form. Local Magic Historian Gilbert Trudo writes that it can only be partly removed by a willing partner who will do it with him willingly at least three times. And at least one of those places in a public area. The rest could not be detected much by spell adjusters, but it’s believed that only the one who’ll submit to him completely just after the stroke of the midnight hour of Christmas Day, can free him totally. Most spell historians can surmise it is only Frieda’s wrath that stops anyone from taking an interest or trying. Of course the heart seems to play a big part in most curse removals in Spellfire…” He leaned back in his chair after reading the passages. “Well I’m screwed.” She sighed and placed a hand over his wrist. “We still have time left, Geo. We’ll think of something. Come on, I’m getting hungry. How about some pizza and beer? I’ve got some beer in the fridge, and we can stop over at the all night pizzeria near the apartments.” “Food makes me think better too. Especially pizza. I discovered it when it came to Spellfire. The curse allows me to become human during the midnight-to-midnight hours of the Christmas holiday. Well when Frieda doesn’t think to stop it happening.” He scooted back his chair and nodded. Thanks for all your help, Lillia. You didn’t have to you know.” She stood before him, and he loved the way her gray eyes became misty as she studied him. His heart cracked even further. “It’s Christmas, and this isn’t your fault. Consider it a holiday gift, Geo. I did give you hope for a release and a chance to be free, so we have to figure this out together. And you’re right, I think better on a full stomach. Come on, let’s get out of here. I can still smell Frieda’s stench permeating the library.” He agreed and walked out the back door of the library. The door seemed to vibrate, no hum happily after it closed itself. He shrugged, knowing this town was a life in itself, or ghosts really roamed it in an alternate plane of existence. He was mortal, but he’d always had an 41
Spellfire Commemorative empathic sensing of things otherworldly. The town was fascinating to him, and he’d love to make it his home and find out more about it. For some odd reason, he felt very content, although he only had two days before becoming a statue again. **** Lillia enjoyed the cooler air as they walked from the backside of the library towards her apartment. It was only a few blocks down a side road, to the small complex she lived in, called Haunted Hills Apartments. Most of her neighbors were quiet, and except for the occasional Friday night spookings, she didn’t hear much booing and screeching from any of the ghosts and paranormal beings living there; or even the few mortals that braved the area. As they walked, she realized that she felt lighter hearted than she had in years. Absently, she slipped her hand into his warm, willing one. He turned to smile down at her and within that smile Lillia knew she’d lost her heart. Is this sudden creaking of her heart what one felt when they realized the iciness around their heart was finally melting? She’d been in love before, but Frieda had stolen him with a love potion, so perhaps it wasn’t as good as it had seemed. Yet, with Geo, she didn’t feel that way. He whistled as they kept walking towards the pizzeria just ahead. His hand tightened over hers and he briefly brought it to his full lips. She quivered with need and happiness. His aqua blue eyes sparkled like a glistening sea at midnight, and the wind blew his blonde hair around his face in a most tantalizing manner. He opened the door as they reached the Paraboolie’s Pizza Place. She was glad that at 10:30 pm on a Friday it wasn’t that busy. People were still out shopping for presents and holiday goodies. They went up to the counter and ordered a double dose of pepperoni pizza. While they waited, they sat at one of the far, high-backed booths. Geo’s back was to the door and she could slightly see over the big backing of the booth. “I really appreciate your help and more, Lillia.” He opened up to her. Not the most romantic words, but it was a start to her. “Like I said, I started this, Geo.” “No, actually, Frieda did. At least it led me to you. I could somehow feel you there from time to time when ever you came to sit near me in the park.”
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Spellfire Commemorative “Sometimes I thought the same about you. It’s funny we’ve never met over the years when Frieda’s curse allowed you to become human.” “I thought to look you up at times, but I guess you were out of town those rare times. Thing of it is, I could only get off the statue when Frieda was out of town during a Christmas holiday.” “That was the only time you could become human, when Frieda was out of town? Odd, but it seems she was often out of town at the same time I was.” He nodded. “Yes. Maybe she knew you were a potential curse breaker.” “Or something. She’s very devious. But, enough of her. Let’s try not to let thoughts of her spoil this time, Geo.” “I quite agree with you, my lovely, sexy librarian.” Her heart was really melting now. She studied him and saw a deep mistiness to his eyes. Was he feeling these deep emotions as she was? Most of her hoped so. No, she corrected herself. All of her hoped he did. She felt her eyes widen with sudden realization. The times sitting in the park, and blabbing about her life and the town’s people was fun and had come to mean a lot to her. Now she knew why she had not been able to let herself get involved with anyone else for the last ten years. She was in love with Geo. Then her heart cracked in a bad way. She didn’t think that she could be parted with him again. There had to be a way to break the damn spell. Even if he didn’t care as much for her, she hoped that there was enough caring that they could find a way for him to be free from Frieda’s wicked spell. “You look scared or startled by something, Lillia. What’s wrong?” She knew his empathic nature was picking up on her inner senses. She had to know he cared about her. The waitress came over to their table though, bringing mugs of beer and the pepperoni pizza. She waited until the waitress left and she’d served some pizza to herself and Geo before she spoke to him. “I’m fine, Geo. I’m just worried for you.” She picked up a slice and quickly ate several bites before she blurted out the truth.
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Spellfire Commemorative “I’m glad. This is good pizza. I’m glad we are eating out here. Every moment with you is special, doll.” He gave her a quick sheepish glance and then started eating his pizza quickly too. Had she missed something? He thought this moment special? Did that mean that his once stony heart was cracking too? She felt elated. Was Geo falling in love with her? She ate more bites of the pepperoni. Gawd she loved the double layers of meat and cheese. It made her hungry for more than just pizza and beer. She wanted to feel him inside her again. “I’m glad you liked pepperoni too. I tried it in the 1950s during a holiday Frieda wasn’t around. It’s always been my favorite. It just makes me…um…hot afterwards.” She nearly choked on her last bite. Lillia quickly grabbed her beer mug and swigged a swallow down. “It does me too, Geo!” He put down the third slice he’d been working on and he too washed it down with a few swallows of beer. “Oh hell, I knew we had a lot in common. I wish we had more time, Lillia. There are a lot of things I’d like to say and do to you. Like you are the most beautiful woman I’ve ever known. And just knowing you were around did something to my heart and soul.” She reached over and clasped her hands around his. “I’ve felt the same way, Geo. I’ve just been scared about doing anything, or saying anything.” He nodded sadly, but his eyes said so much more. “I know. I didn’t want to put you through anything. Let’s face it, normally you’re not the type to screw a guy in public.” “No, I’m not, but for you I…” what she was going to impart to him she halted as she caught site of two people entering the pizzeria. She squeezed his hands in warning, and he caught on quickly. He slid down in his seat and asked, “Frieda?” She slid down lower too. “And Perry. The loud mouth. Shhh. Listen. “ They both listened to Perry’s and Frieda’s high-toned voices carry across the small eatery. What Lillia heard made her quiver with a bit of dread. She looked over and saw that her handsome ex statue lover, with his century of hardship and courage, felt the same thing she felt. Dread and fear that Frieda might find a way to stop them from freeing him from his statue curse. 44
Spellfire Commemorative “…I tell you, Perry, if I find out who fucked Geo, I swear I’ll curse that person too!” “But, sweet cakes, there’s no need. Geo’s been punished enough, don’t you think?” “No one turns me down for anything and gets away with it. Now get that damn pizza and let’s get out of here. I need a good fuck before I’m outta the mood.” She heard them shuffle, pay for the pizza and the door open and close to the restaurant. Lillia peeped over the seat and saw the awful couple walking away from the place of business. She let out a sigh of relief and slowly sat up. Geo did the same. They were both quiet for a few moments and the silence felt good to her. She’d lost her appetite for the pizza, though her body was screaming for more than that tasty stuff. Glancing over at Geo’s face, she saw that he was kind of spaced out. She was a witch, but she had a sixth sense that he was very troubled. She knew he wasn’t a coward, and felt that it took a lot to make him scared. Then was he worried that Frieda might find a way to stop them from finding the cure to ease his curse and his worries? They had to talk about it and figure out what to do. Would she be willing to really screw him in public? She’d been totally smashed when she did it in the park. But would she now? She’d often considered it over the years, but couldn’t bring herself to mount a cold statue in public. But did it have to be while he was a statue? The curse removal guess was that it only had to be in a public spot. What if they did it under the table here? Or maybe they could find a quiet spot in one of the seedy bars in town. Or maybe the library? Wouldn’t that count as a public spot, even if there wasn’t a crowd to watch them? Realization hit her then. “Geo.” His head jerked upwards. “You’ve figured something out? Just tell me it doesn’t have to do with tinsel on my cock or sugarplums and bells hanging from my balls.” Geo’s hopeful look made her feel uplifted. She had to be right. “I hate sugar plums and no tinsel or bells involved.” “Great, tell me!” “The book stated you had to do it in a public place with a willing person. Then during the minutes of the witching hour you had to 45
Spellfire Commemorative command her to do it again with you. Geo, the library is a public place.” He blinked his eyes and she saw it slowly dawn on him what she meant. “Doll, I could love you for the rest of my life. Are you agreeing to the last part then?” She nodded and smiled his way. “Geo, I could get use to having you around for a long time to come. In just less than twenty-four you’ve become more special to me than you know. And you are one hell of a good lover.” “Then you’d be submissive to me?” Hope for freedom and more shone in his expressive eyes. She wanted to feel more, to know more about him, and to fuck him again. “Yes.” It was then that he pulled her wrist towards him. He tapped on her watch and glanced down at it. It wasn’t too far from midnight now. He glanced up at her and she nodded eagerly. The two jumped out of the booth. Lillia was glad they had paid for the pizza ahead of time, but she pulled some change out of her pocket and threw it on the table anyway. Geo grabbed her wrist again and she didn’t mind as they hurried out of the pizzeria and the two ran to her nearby apartment as fast as they could. They’d beat Frieda’s curse and have a damn good time doing so. She was hopeful that she’d be able to give Geo the best Christmas present he could ever want; and to see that he once more liked and believed in this very special holiday season. **** Geo looked down at irresistible beauty he’d come to actually care about. No, not just cared about, but loved. Still loved with all his heart and soul. Hadn’t her eyes responded with her heart in them back in the pizzeria? His empathy told him he wasn’t wrong, though both had not said those words out loud yet. He knew she felt as deeply for him as he did for her. Otherwise, he was sure she wouldn’t be here now, in her apartment, letting him have his complete way with her being submissive to his every whim. Lying there on her bed, quivering as little as she could, he knew her heart had opened up to him also. Yet, she was having a hard time already not grabbing him and quickly wanting to copulate. He smiled with passion in his heart and knew she’d see it in his eyes. He’d make this session good for them. His hand touched her heat, but she didn’t 46
Spellfire Commemorative arch towards him. He knew she wanted him, but she stayed naturally still. “Shhh, my dear. Let me tease and delight in you. Only move when I tell you to. Other than your natural jerks, you cannot do else or I’ll be a statue again. So, unless I command you and tell you that you can move, please be still. Ok, open up further for me if you still agree.” She spread her legs, allowing his hand easier access to her intimacy. Taking three fingers of his right hand, he slowly moved them teasingly up and down her glistening clit. She groaned with want, but stayed still as she’d been asked to. He stroke her up, then down, in excessively gentle, slow motions, careful at first not to delve too deeply down in between her mons. Oh, she felt good beneath his hand. Wet and warm, and quivering for more of his touch. Yet, he kept taking his time, stroking her up and down, with feathery caresses, pleased as she opened her thighs as far as she could without thrusting up at him. He took it to the next step and pressed the tips of his fingers down further into her velvet fold. She quivered, and he knew she was having a hard time to keep up the deal. But she couldn’t start until he gave her the word. Then he could fuck her, really, really fuck her with abandoned passion. As long as she stayed dominated. He motioned for her to watch his eyes, to keep quiet. He thought to take it easier on and so for a few moments as he stroked her delightful body, and kissed and explored her luscious limbs in slow long laths of his tongue. He loved the taste of her body and deliberately made the caressing of her heated form last as long as he could, or would need to. He couldn’t resist exploring her wet channel more. His hand slowly slid in and out of her. Still, except for her slight quiver and sweat pouring from her body, she did not move. He leaned over and kissed her rigid nipples. Geo thrust his hand more quickly in and out of her and then came to a stop. Her juices came out thicker over his hands. He blew on her clit and used both hands to open her lips. Then he lowered his head and slowly began to tongue her softly at first and then deeper and stronger. She shivered beneath him, but she contained her violent reaction to his tonguing. 47
Spellfire Commemorative He was glad. She felt so hot and good around his hand. He could almost feel her sheathed around him now. He lowered his head again, and this time began sucking on her moist clit as his hands roamed her stiff and sweaty body. One hand kneaded her breast; the other went back to her pussy and with the same three fingers he shoved quickly into her. Sweat rolled in near torrents down her body, but she stayed still. He sucked her harder and his fingers delved deeper and swifter into her moist channel. His dick hardened painfully. Her nails dug into her palms but she stayed still as he licked her wet pussy furiously and sucked her swollen clit with abandoned fervor. “Open for me more, doll. Ride my hand, but no screaming and hold your orgasm.” She opened her legs as wide as she could, bending her knees and her hips thrust forward. She rode his fingers and tongue with wild abandonment, and he was amazed that she did not scream out. Her body wracked with needed release, but still she held on for him. Then he saw the clock near her bed. Like the gong of the clock in the town square was about to hit midnight. “I’m gonna fuck you now baby.” Then he took hold of her hips and in one swift hard movement, he buried himself within her. He shoved hard and furiously into her. She bucked back against him. He reached around Lillia and kneaded each of her breasts with his big hands. Then his fingers found her clit and he rubbed the moist nub up and down as he slammed against her from behind. “You want me again, witch? Tell me you want me to fuck you again. “Yes, Geo, screw my hot pussy again.” “Now damn it. Come hard for me now. Scream for me baby.” “Fuck me, baby. Fuck me as hard as you can.” Geo moved quickly, and turned her over on her back. Her eyes were full of heated passion, and her body sweated with intense need as his did. His shaft engorged almost painfully. This time he gave it everything he had. She wrapped her legs around him and put a hand between their bodies. She first rubbed herself and then him. He became instantly aroused at the stroking of his wet cock. “Tell me you love me, Lillia. Tell me and mean it.” “I love you, Geo. Oh yes I mean it.” 48
Spellfire Commemorative Geo thrust harder and harder into her, as she obeyed his command and thrust up against him with fierce abandonment. His body shook in unison with hers. For nearly a century, he’d waited for this earth shattering moment. And to come inside of the woman he loved, made the moment of reaching a glorious climax with her even more fantastic. He grabbed her tightly in his arms and she wrapped hers around him. Together they screamed out their love and their desires of bliss as the waves of euphoria washed over them. A scream of pure abandonment escaped her honey lips as her orgasm hit, mingling with his own.. He jerked heavily and their union was worth all the years of waiting for her. Then he almost collapsed over her as she nearly fell faint from the multiple orgasms wracking through her body. And at the precise moment of their orgasm, a gong struck, letting them know that midnight had passed. “We did it, love.” She cried out just after the fated gong hit. “It’s just after Christmas. We lasted until after midnight. That’s what the removal entailed.” “I’m not a granite stiff anymore! We did it, sweetheart, we did it! No more fucking cursed years.” He pulled her happily into his arms. Geo was hers now and not a statue in the park. She wrapped her arms around him fiercely. “I love you, Geo. To hell with curses, let’s fuck some more!” “With pleasure, doll. I love you and your fantastic body.” He wasted no time in doing as she suggested. Bringing his hands into her cunt he finger fucked her and made her cum several more times. He quickly grabbed her by the waist and then flipped her over. She pushed her hips backwards. Geo thrust two fingers in and out of her. The fury of need built up to a scorching crescendo. She screamed out her orgasms as he piled forcefully into her. He then rolled her over onto her back, felt himself harden and thrust into her wet folds. He pumped her hard and fast, coming again with her. The chime on her bedside clock binged, running a few moments behind the tower clock outside. Both laughed in pleasure and satisfaction at the reminder. Now Geo would never be just a statue for all seasons, any more; nor would he have to dread Christmas again. As they collapsed together in happy, lusted exhaustion, a tingling, magical sounding chime echoed within the apartment walls, resounding the days of joy that were before them now. Christmas Day was officially gone, but their seasons of wonder and love had just 49
Spellfire Commemorative begun. However, when the next Christmas rolled around, they both knew that she would be the only thing from now on adorning his uncursed shaft. Together, the two fell into a blissful sleep, but neither one of them dreamt of tinsel, bells or sugarplums. The End
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From
Spellfire Hearts Drifting Desires By Leanne Strange Harpy Collins's mistaken thoughts made her cautious of loving elemental sorcerer Derek Spellfire. With magical caresses, Derek's determined to give Harpy the love she craves. http://www.laniaames.com/leanne/leannestrange.html Join Leanne's newsletter, Strange Seductions: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/StrangeSeductions/ Visit Leanne's webpage: http://www.flowersandhearts.com/leannestrange.htm Sinful Sundaes: Shifters & Hot Fudge Visit Leanne’s Blog http://www.livejournal.com/users/leannestrange/
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Drifting Desires By Leanne Strange Chapter One “Don't forget to fill the straw dispensers,” Harpy Collins reminded the newest waitress at Sinful Sundaes Ice Cream Shoppe. Harpy watched as Blaze Draconis, her mane of flame-red hair threatening to spill from the twist at the back of her head, picked up the box of Spooktacular Straws from behind the counter and scurried to the nearest table. Harpy thought that Blaze was doing well for only two days on the job, even if it was a few steps down from Spellfire Maintenance Engineer, a position Blaze held for years. Not that there's anything wrong with waitressing, Harpy mused and brushed crumbs off her own waitress uniform. Nothing at all. She shrugged and looked down at the total of the day's receipts. “Not bad for a Friday in February. The weather's been unseasonably warm for this time of year, and that's good for the ice cream biz.” Harpy raked the piles of coins into a cash bag, and then added the stack of bills. “Thanks, Manny. See you tomorrow night.” Mano A. Mano, whom everyone called Manny, made the A-OK sign, flipped over onto the tips of two fingers, hopped off the counter, and disappeared, going wherever disembodied hands went after midnight. Probably down on Alligator Alley to tally receipts for all the joints and pubs. He was the best money-counter she'd ever seen. Manny's totals were never off by so much as one cent. Cash bag in hand, Harpy called out, “I'll be in the back if you need anything.” She must have startled Blaze because suddenly Spooktacular 52
Spellfire Commemorative Straws flew everywhere, in all directions, skittering across tables and scattering over the floor. Harpy shook her head and sighed. The dragon-shifter lost her nerve as well as her verve along with her fire and her job. “Don't worry, hon.” Harpy forced a smile when Blaze, her face as red as her name, looked up. “I'll help you clean up after I put this in the safe.” In the back, Harpy placed the cash bag in the wall safe. After closing the door and spinning the lock, she made the motions that the owner of Sinful Sundaes, Electra Spellfire-Ruveaux, taught her to cast, a warding spell that even an experienced mage would have trouble breaking. A normal thief, normal as in non-magical, would never be able to crack it. The re-located ghost of Ishmaiah Hawkins, town crier, still walked his route through town, but according to how his hometown had once been laid out in colonial days back east...which just happened to bring him right through the kitchen of Sinful Sundaes. He rang his bell and called out, “Twelve o'clock and all is well.” Then he floated through the back wall. All was always well for Ishmaiah, Harpy noted that whenever she worked the swing shift and saw him. But all was not well for her. Midnight brought in the janitorial service Electra contracted for the shop. Clean Sweep was a sideline business owned and operated by Electra's brother Derek. Thinking of Derek made Harpy think of what might have been. Back in high school, when she was young and in love with her whole life ahead of her, she certainly didn't plan on making a career of waitressing. Not that she hated her job. She loved working for Electra and was proud of making head waitress and night manager within the past year. But it just wasn't what she thought she'd be doing at this point in her life. Before she became too maudlin, the tinkle of the bell over the front door and the sound of rushing wind that followed signified Derek Spellfire was in the house. Harpy steeled herself and stepped out of the back room. She saw the last of the Spooktacular Straws twirling through the air and into the box that Blaze held. “Thanks, Derek,” Blaze whispered breathlessly and blushed. “No problem,” Derek said. 53
Spellfire Commemorative Harpy wanted to puddle like a scoop of ice cream in July at the sound of his smooth, sexy voice. She shook herself. No puddling! She ducked her head over the cash register and busied herself. Maybe Derek would give the place a good cleaning and go away without saying a word to her. As Blaze went into the back to get another box of straws, he blasted through the shop like a tornado, sucking up all the dust and trash in his path and depositing it in the wastebasket. Good. Now, he can leave and that will be that. “Good evening, Harpy.” Derek's smooth tones washed over her, igniting sparks of desire that had lain dormant for so very long. “Hello, Derek,” she said evenly. A heavy crash sounded from the back, followed by the explosion of broken glass. Blaze's trembling voice said, “I'm sorry, Harpy. I'll clean it up.” Harpy closed her eyes and shook her head. “If I could get my hands on our esteemed mayor, Perry Normil, right this minute, I'd strangle him.” Derek chuckled as he gusted across her arm. “Lots of folks in Spellfire would like to do him in, but why right now?” Harpy's eyes sprang open and she stifled a shiver. Her back itched something fierce, but she wasn't going to let Derek know. Oh, no, she wasn't going to tease him. They were over and had been for a long time. She didn't really want to go there again...did she? Harpy moved away from him, pretending to straighten up the counter. “For what he did to Blaze Draconis. It was bad enough he called for Blaze's resignation, but did he have to publicly humiliate her by announcing she could no longer breathe flames?” Derek blew closer and need prickled between her thighs. “Didn't everyone know? I'd only been back in Spellfire a couple of weeks at the time, and I'd already heard the rumor.” “That's just it!” Harpy slammed down a salt shaker, and then lowered her voice so Blaze wouldn't hear. “It was just a rumor, but now everybody knows for sure. Poor Blaze is mortified. A dragonshifter without her fire is like a—a vampire without fangs.” Or a harpy without the ability to fly, she could have added. “Or an elemental sorcerer stuck in his elemental form,” Derek contributed instead. “It's not the same thing.” Harpy frowned. “You still have your 54
Spellfire Commemorative magic. That's why the mayor appointed you as Spellfire Maintenance Engineer after forcing Blaze to resign. And because you're a Spellfire.” Derek drifted around the counter. “Granted, Perry Normil is a suck-up. But Blaze can still shape-shift into a dragon.” “But she can't breathe fire. What's a dragon without fire?” “True.” Derek wafted even closer. Harpy edged down along the counter away from him, still pretending to straighten condiment containers, but she was all too aware of his nearness. “Anyway, Electra and I are determined to see this through with Blaze. Everyone in town feels sorry for her because of the way the mayor treated her and they want to help, but she's lasted less than a week at every place that's hired her. She's easily spooked and painfully shy now, and she just can't seem to do anything right anymore.” Derek eddied along the counter with her. “Does she know how she lost her fire?” Harpy shook her head and cleared her throat to be able to speak. Derek, even in wind form, was devastating to her furled wings. “She says it sometimes happens to dragon-shifters, but they don't know why.” “Has she asked Electra about a cure?” Derek drifted around to her other side. He slid along her skin and tumbled her blond curls. Did he know what he was doing? Or was it accidental? She could light into him for getting too close, but what if he truly didn't intend to touch her? She would embarrass herself all over again for assuming she knew what just happened. “Yeah.” Harpy gulped and started moving back up the counter, toward the register and away from Derek again. “Electra has looked, but she can't find anything in the grimoires about curing lost dragon fire.” “My sister is the most powerful sorceress in town. If she can't find a cure then there isn't one,” he said proudly. “Shush, here she comes,” Harpy whispered. Blaze returned with a fresh box of Spooktacular Straws and starting filling the straw dispensers at the tables again. The bell above the door tinkled and a group of jackets and caps entered. The Invisible Man League always met the second Friday night of every month at 55
Spellfire Commemorative Sinful Sundaes. Harpy waved and turned to get their usual order, sparkling water with a twist all around because it was disconcerting to see colored soda or ice cream settle in invisible stomachs, but Derek shifted air around her and she couldn't move. “Derek, please.” Harpy inhaled deeply to keep from sounding breathless. “I have to get their order.” “When do you get off?” His voice was low and sexy and she felt a warm rush of air across her cheek. Her body threatened to melt again, but she backed up against the counter. Her back itched madly. She wanted to scratch against the counter, but she restrained herself. “I get off at one, when the night shift comes in. Why?” The air stirred around her, and he moved in even closer. “Come with me on a night flight.” Harpy clenched her jaw and withdrew her order pad from her pocket. She swung her arm through him, dispersing him away from her. “I can't fly and you know it!” She stalked through what was left of him, his essence permeating the skin on her arms. She stifled another shiver and stiffened her back to keep her wings from unfurling. Damn him! Why did he have to bring that up? Why couldn't he just leave her alone? “I'm sorry, Harpy. I thought by now you would be flying.” She shook her head while gathering glasses for the invisible men. “Nope. I'm only half harpy, and you know that, too. The witchdoctor told my mother when she got pregnant by my human father that I might never be able to fly. He was right.” “Maybe I can help.” Derek swirled around her again. “I'm nothing but air. Let me take you out to Spellfire Park tomorrow. I can direct my wind exactly where you need it. Maybe you can fly. Let me be the wind beneath your wings.” For a second, hope rose in Harpy. To be able to fly like all her harpy relatives had been her greatest desire her entire life...aside from her desire for Derek Spellfire. She squashed both flat. She couldn't fly and she couldn't have Derek. Not after what she had done to him. Even now, knowing she’d been dead wrong, she couldn't apologize. And she couldn't let him near enough to be the wind beneath her anything. “No!” The word exploded from her mouth. 56
Spellfire Commemorative His air flowed around her, raising goose bumps on her arms. Derek caressed her skin and her hair, and he breezed past her ear. Her heart raced in her chest, and her breathing deepened. It was all she could do not to strip off her uniform and let him spin around her body until she— “I'm not leaving until you agree to meet me in Spellfire Park tomorrow.” A tiny current of air tickled her ear and this time she did shiver. She would do anything to make him stop. “All right. Yes!” “The Valentine Day Picnic is tomorrow at the park.” Blaze came from behind the counter, and Harpy hadn't even noticed. “I'll see you two there.” Harpy narrowed her eyes. Derek drifted away from her. Harpy put her hands on her hips. “You fiend! I am not going, Derek.” “Too late, baby. You're already committed.” He spun into a cyclone, but his trailing tail swept beneath her skirt as he headed around the counter. She jumped. The blasted bag of wind had goosed her! Harpy stared at the door after he left and muttered under her breath, “Yeah, I ought to be committed.”
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Chapter Two Derek blew through Spellfire Park like he didn't have a care in the world. Inside, and he did have an inside even if he was nothing but air, he was jumping for joy. He tricked Harpy. He wasn't proud of it, but she gave him no other choice. In the six months that he'd been back in Spellfire, she refused to give him the time of day. He distracted her by gently wafting over her skin and through her hair, making her forget about the next day's festivities in the park. Valentine's Day was still several days away, but Spellfire always held the picnic the Saturday before. If the weather wasn't good—too cold or too rainy—then the Witch's Council got together and cast a Sunny Day Spell. No town festival was ever rained out in Spellfire, unless the town itself had a reason to keep nature on its course. Derek joined his sister Electra and her new vamperian husband Alex at the Spellfire picnic table, beneath the tallest tree in the park, but he couldn't hold still. He kept gusting through the upper limbs of the tree to scan the park, looking for Harpy. He hoped that she kept her word. “Derek? Is that you?” A familiar voice sounded below him, and he looked down. The man stood with his face turned up and his hands clasped behind his back. He was a tall, thin man with black hair and blue eyes. Derek whisked down to the ground, stirring up a few leftover dead leaves and a crumpled napkin. “Roald? Roald Rumsfeld?” Roald laughed. “I thought I recognized the way the limbs swayed. How have you been?” Derek swirled around until he took a windy form of his human self. He couldn't sustain the shape for long. His air was difficult to control and used a lot of energy in such a tight configuration. But it made him feel more normal and kept Roald from looking like he was 58
Spellfire Commemorative talking to himself. “I'm doing good. How's the silver-smithing business?” “Great.” Roald brought his hands from around his back. He was wearing thick, unwieldy gloves. He tugged one off. Derek's breath caught. He'd forgotten how downright weird Roald's hands looked with fire engulfing them to the wrist and orange-red flames licking from the tips of his fingers and thumb. “Not many people can mold silver with their bare hands.” Roald sighed. “I do miss touching things because everything I touch burns to a crisp. On the bright side, I can toast marshmallows whenever I want.” Derek chuckled politely, but the ramifications of what they'd done in high school appalled him. “What I miss most,” Roald lowered his voice as he replaced the specially made flame-retardant glove, “is touching a woman.” “I know how you feel,” Derek murmured. Roald looked startled. “Yeah, I guess you do. Women like to be touched, and they don't hang around long if you can't.” “That's the truth,” Derek commiserated. “And molding silver with your bare hands will only get you so far.” He paused, then lowered his voice and confessed, “My hands aren't the only part of my body flaming like a blowtorch.” Derek nodded politely. He never thought about that. Ouch. But what if Roald hit on the answer that Derek had been seeking for years as to why Harpy dumped him just a few days after his and Roald's foolishness turned him into air. She wouldn't tell him why, even when he begged. She just said she never wanted to see him again. At first, he thought it might be the embarrassment of having a boyfriend who was no more than a current of air. He never considered it might be because she thought he couldn't touch her the way a woman needed to be touched. “We were a couple of dumb-assed kids, weren't we?” Roald asked suddenly. His question didn't really need an answer. The proof was in what they'd done to themselves. “It seems there was a point to making spell-offs illegal, after all,” Derek said. “Yeah, there was. But we were too young and full of ourselves to listen to the teachers when they said we weren't ready to handle our 59
Spellfire Commemorative elements.” Roald laughed, but it was a hollow sound. “Do you even remember what started the argument?” Derek shook his head. “Not really, but I do remember calling you a matchstick.” Roald shrugged. “Oh, that's an old insult for us fire sorcerers. I think when you said you were going to blow me out like a candle was when I got really mad.” They laughed together. They could be friends now that the old high school rivalry was far behind them. “How did you explain your condition?” Derek asked. “I told my folks that a spell for homework went wrong. They sent me to Europe for a while, but none of the so-called experts over there could fix it.” “Same here, except my parents didn't send me away. I'm surprised someone didn't figure out what we'd done. My sister Electra suspected, I think, but she never said anything to anyone.” “Well, I'd better get back to the family. If my grandfather sees me talking to an air sorcerer, I'll never hear the end of it. Good to see you again, Derek.” Derek watched Roald walk across the park. They had been dumbassed kids, just like Roald said. A spelling duel, of all things. If they had been able to admit to what really happened someone might have been able to help them, but if they told, their punishment would have been so much worse. “Derek?” This time the voice came from behind him, and he spun around, throwing off micro-tornadoes left and right until he disintegrated into air again. “Harpy, you came.” She wore a backless one-piece pantsuit, but she kept her arms tightly crossed. Mixed signals, for sure. Harpy herself probably didn't know what she wanted. “I said I would.” She uncrossed her arms enough to twirl one loose curl around her finger. He swept through the tumble of blond ringlets pinned at the back of her head and across her bare back. She hugged herself, shrugging her shoulders up to her earlobes. “Derek, don't.” “Why not, baby?” He glissaded back across the nape of her neck. She licked her lips and rubbed her arms. “I came like I said I would, but I'm not staying. I never attend the Valentine Picnic.” 60
Spellfire Commemorative She turned to face him, but he whirled around her, faster and faster, like a hurricane, leaving her in the calm of his “eye”. “Sure you do.” He moved forward, his eye wall gently bumping her rear until she was forced to take a step and then another. “You and I used to come every year.” “I meant since then,” she snapped. “Let me go, so I can leave now.” “Nope.” He continued pushing her along toward the back of the park and beyond a grove of trees where no one could see them. “You promised to fly with me.” “And I told you I can't fly,” she cried out. He reached out through his eye wall with what felt to him like his hand, but was no more than a trail of air and caressed her ear with a flutter of wind no greater than that created by a butterfly's wings. “Let me help you.” She shuddered, flexing her back. “I've tried everything and nothing works. I'm half human, and I wasn't meant to fly.” “You haven't tried this. I'm an air sorcerer, Harpy. And because of something stupid I did back in high school, I'm nothing but air now. It won't hurt to try.” “But why didn't you turn back when…” she clamped her lips together and her eyes narrowed. “I'm not turning back,” he said, although he was unsure why she became angry. “No one can see us here.” “Why can't you just leave me alone?” She blinked rapidly. He thought he saw the glisten of unshed tears in her eyes, but sometimes fast movement skewed his vision. “Why can't you just give it a try?” “Do you...” She took a deep breath, but her words still came out in a breathless rush. “Do you really think it'll work?” He wasn't going to lie to her. “I honestly don't know, but it can't hurt to try.” She nodded. “All right.” Derek breathed a soughing sound of relief. While in the air, he would prove he could touch her in more ways than she ever imagined. Maybe, just maybe, she would realize he could be as good a lover now as he had been back then, even if he was only air. He stopped his whirling and turned into a gentle zephyr. “H-How do we do this?” Harpy sounded nervous. She twirled the 61
Spellfire Commemorative loose curl and bit her bottom lip at the same time. “Take off your shoes,” he directed. “Then relax and I'll do the rest.” She toed off her sandals and stood as stiff as a board. He gathered around her and whispered in her ear, “Relax, baby. I won't drop you.” “It's not that.” She smiled, and her body went pliable within him. “I'm scared it won't work, but...what if it does? I've never flown before.” “I'll be here to help you,” he promised. He cradled her and lifted her, cushioning her with his air. He used a huge amount of energy changing forms to talk to Roald, and he wished now he hadn't. He would be able to draw more energy from the air around him, but it would take time to build. He only had enough left to create the semblance of his head, shoulders, chest, and arms again. Harpy jerked against him and threw her arms around his neck. “Oh, Derek!” “I have you,” he reassured her. He enfolded her in his arms and let the rest of him carry them up, up, up beyond the clouds, so high that no one in Spellfire Park could see them. He nuzzled her neck, and then her head turned until their lips met. He kissed her deeply, sliding his mouth over her sensual lips. She tasted as sweet as the confections she dished up at the shop. She tasted like Harpy and she tasted like home. He groaned into her mouth, and his hands slid down her back, over the nubs where her wings started to sprout, proving she was as hot for him as he was for her. Her wings always unfurled when she became aroused. He ran his hands up her back and over her growing nubs again. She arched against him and didn't protest when he unfastened the halter top at the back of her neck. The front fluttered to her waist, revealing her pert breasts and taut nipples. He bent the form of his head, taking one hard peak into the facsimile of his mouth, and all his air pressure rushed lower, creating a thick, solid cylinder of concentrated wind that probed between her thighs. She gasped, and he released the rosy tip of her breast. Her dazzling blue eyes were wide, startled. “I can touch you, Harpy.” He massaged her back and felt her wings expand. He thrust his wind-cock hard between her thighs. “I can make love to you, the way we used to. You didn't have to break 62
Spellfire Commemorative up with me over that.” She gasped again and drew away from him. Her eyes grew even wider, two pools of bright blue surrounded by white. “Th-That's not why, Derek,” she stammered. He let his hands drop to her waist. If that wasn't the reason, then he wasn't sure he wanted to know. If she broke up with him because of how he looked, that said more about Harpy than he ever realized. He was the same Derek, dammit. Why would she think otherwise? He couldn't believe Harpy cared more for appearances than what they held in their hearts. Instead of asking her, like he knew he should, he pushed the bunch of her pantsuit down over her hips and peeled the lacey thongs from between her plump cheeks. He directed his wind to whisk them off her legs. “Oh, no. Derek!” Frantically, she tightened her arms around the form of his neck and shoulders, her breasts pressing firmly against the shape of his chest. “It's all right,” he whispered soothingly into her ear. “We're above the clouds. No one can see us.” His wind-fingers traced the generous curves of her butt, and her body tensed in an entirely different way. Her hips thrust forward, gliding her wet pussy lips along his cock. He shuddered at the thought of entering Harpy again after such a long time.
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Chapter Three Harpy trembled in Derek's arms, the tip of his cock teasing her wet entrance. She wanted nothing more than to push her hips forward and have him inside her where he belonged. But she couldn't allow it, not until she told him the truth. “No, Derek,” she whispered and pulled away. She clung to his shoulders, but moved as far from him as possible without letting go. “Not yet.” “It's been a long time, I know, baby.” He tried to sound as if he understood her decision, but she could hear the disappointment that echoed her own. “If you're not ready yet, I understand.” She shook her head. Loose curls bounced across her eyes, and he reached up to brush them out of the way. Smiling, she touched the shape of his cheek. The moving air holding his upper body together made the tips of her fingers tingle. Oh, how she wanted to touch the real flesh-and-blood Derek, run her fingers through his hair and look into his flecked jade-green eyes. Still, she knew she would take him in his present form if only he could get past how she once doubted him. “I have something to tell you. After I do, you may not want to continue with this.” He snorted. “I can't imagine what you could tell me that would make me not want you.” She licked her lips. “This might.” “That serious, huh?” She pressed her lips together and nodded. “All right. We'll rest here and talk.” He settled them on the nearest cloud, his magic holding the white puffiness together. Softer than a down mattress, it caressed every inch of her body when she sank into it. Derek joined her, holding her in the crook of his arm. She couldn't yet furl her wings, and he was careful of them. 64
Spellfire Commemorative He looked down at her. “What is it, baby? What has kept us apart all these years if it wasn’t that you thought I couldn't touch you?” Harpy snuggled closer to him. After he heard what she had to tell him, she might never be welcome in his arms again. She wanted to stay there as long as possible. “Back then, I loved you more than you ever knew. I still do, and I want you to remember that when I say what I have to say.” “I love you, too, Harpy, and I never stopped loving you.” He drew even closer and kissed her ear. “I never understood why you said you never wanted to see me again. Not a day went by that I didn't wish you were back in my life. I left Spellfire because I couldn't bear to be in the same town with you and not be able to have you. And I came back because I couldn't bear not being near you even if I couldn't have you.” Tears filled her eyes. She'd been so stupid back then and all the years in between, too. How could she expect him to forgive her when she couldn't forgive herself? “What is it, baby?” He placed a finger under her chin and raised her head. When he saw her tears, he used his thumb to wipe the wet trail from her cheek. His windy touch made her skin tingle, but it was more than pressurized air. It was because he was Derek, her Derek. “Wh-When you transformed into air and—and couldn't change back—” She gulped in a deep breath. “That,” he interrupted with a rueful laugh, “That was something profoundly stupid Roald Rumsfeld and I did. I should have told you back then, but…” “You and Roald Rumsfeld?” Her voice rose to a high-pitched squeak on the fire sorcerer's name. Her mind was on making love and being unfaithful and what Derek said just didn't compute. “Don't look so horrified.” Derek wiped another tear-track from her other cheek. “Illegal spell-offs are more common than you think among elemental pre-sorcerers.” “Oh. Oh!” She nearly squealed with relief. “You and Roald dueled with spells.” “Sure. What'd you think…” Then he laughed so hard that he dispersed most of his wind. “You thought Roald and I…uh, no. We were enemies like most elemental sorcerers. We got into an argument that neither of us can remember. One insult led to another, and we agreed to meet at midnight in Spellfire Woods, each of us intending to 65
Spellfire Commemorative prove his element the most powerful. We finally learned that each element is equally as powerful as another, just in a different way, and that it takes all of the elements to keep things in balance. Well, enough of Elemental Philosophy 101.” Harpy watched as Derek gathered his air and wind and concentrated it into a full form of himself. She longed to run her fingers through the thick dark blond hair that she remembered so well, and she yearned to see his jade-green eyes darken with passion. She was happy enough to be with Derek, but part of her did miss Derek's flesh-and-blood body. All because of a stupid spell-off with a fire sorcerer! “Oh, that's why Roald always wears those awful-looking gloves. I wondered about that. I don't remember seeing him that way at the same time you turned to air, though.” “Roald's parents sent him to Europe to try to find a cure. It didn't work, and when he came back he was wearing the gloves.” Harpy sat up. “You did something to each other during the duel.” Derek nodded. “We threw the same spell at the same time. They crossed and glitched, and this is the result. I turned into air and Roald turned into fire on his hands and other body parts.” “Don't you realize you could have been expelled as well as exspelled?” “Yeah, that's why we couldn't tell anybody. We swore to each other never to reveal what happened that night so the Witch Board wouldn't throw us out of school or take away our magic.” He laid a hand on her arm. “Now, tell me what you thought I'd done.” Harpy shook her head, but she knew she must say it even if he tossed her from the cloud because of his disappointment in her. “I know it's not true now, but I...I thought you slept with Tristine Havoc.” She peered up at him through her lowered lashes, but only confusion registered on his countenance. His brows furrowed. “Tris Havoc? Why would you think I'd slept with Tris Havoc? She was Electra's friend, but I barely knew her. She and Electra and our cousin Adam graduated a couple of years before that. They were already in college by then.” “The curse,” Harpy said to remind him. But he seemed more confused than before. “The Spellfire-Havoc feud that cursed the Spellfire men and 66
Spellfire Commemorative Havoc women,” she explained. “Havoc women can't make love with anyone except their true loves or their lovers turn into inanimate objects.” “Oh, right. I'd forgotten about it.” Harpy stared at him. “How could you forget about it? You're a Spellfire, and Spellfire men can never find satisfaction because of the curse.” “But making love to you, Harpy, I've always been satisfied. You are my true love.” He raked his fingers into her curls and pulled her to him for a kiss. He took her breath away and she felt winded when he drew back. “Besides, when Tris Havoc broke the curse, with a Spellfire, of all people, she broke it for both the Havocs and the Spellfires. But that doesn't matter. I never want anyone to satisfy me but you.” “Then you're not mad at me for doubting you?” Harpy couldn't believe he wasn't at least a little resentful of what she thought he'd done. “Tris' lovers turned into nature objects. And air is part of nature.” “Ahhhh, I never thought of that. I can understand why you thought what you did. Tris was my sister's best friend, so you'd think I might know her better than I really did.” He nodded. “It makes sense. I'm sorry I didn't tell you what really happened. It's not that I didn't want to or didn't trust you not to tell anyone, but it wasn't only my secret to keep. Roald and I made a pact. I'm telling you now because you deserve to know the truth, and I know you won't say anything. There is no statute of limitations on illegal spell-offs. That old hag Mattie Matlock is still on the Witch Board, and with her friend Frightful Frieda, they have the power to ex-spell Roald and me for life. I don't want any more secrets between us, Harpy.” “Me, either,” she murmured. Relief flooded her entire being, and it was as if a terrible weight lifted from her shoulders. She felt light enough to fly without wings. In fact, she started floating off the cloud and Derek along with her, but his wind lifted them from their puffy resting place. “Where were we?” Derek asked and pulled her hard against the wind-filled form of his body. “Right here, where we should be,” she whispered. Harpy's wings expanded to their full width as Derek's hands cupped her butt. Desire spiraled throughout her whole body, settling 67
Spellfire Commemorative between her thighs in a pounding rhythm. Her clit ached for Derek's touch. If she ever held any doubts that Derek would be able to satisfy her in his airy condition, he proved them all false. The shape of his lips glided over her skin, and the tingle of his air pressure proved to be the only difference from before. The extra sensation added to her pleasure. The cock of his wind-body, as hard and hot as any made of flesh and blood, thrust into her pussy, deep and possessive. She gasped, clenching her legs around his waist and digging her fingers into his shoulders. She felt the rush of wind that kept his shape from dispersing brush against her skin. “Oh, baby,” he groaned the words and drove into her, harder and faster with each stroke. “Oh, Harpy, it's been so long, too long.” She bounced with his rhythm and each time he slammed against her clit, she cried out her pleasure. Incredibly, they both reached their peaks at the same time. Her back curved with the raw force of her orgasm. Her wings reached their full span and flapped in graceful arcs around them, keeping time with her pulses of pleasure. At the same time, Derek strained into her, his hands pressing into her butt cheeks. When he came, freeing his pent-up air, a sharp crack sounded, the force of his release breaking the sound barrier. The air around her that was Derek coalesced, turning into a silvery mist and then the rush of wind against her skin changed to warm, solid flesh. Derek looked down at her with flecked jade-green eyes, his dark blond hair wind-tousled. She reached out, but before she touched the cute dimple in his chin or ran her fingers through his hair, they were falling. Instead, she clutched him, her arms and legs holding onto him for dear life. “Oh, Derek, do something!” “You can do it, Harpy,” he called to her over the sound of air speeding past her ears. “Fly, baby, fly.” She beat her wings to please him and to show him she tried. Nothing would happen, of course, because she never had been able to keep herself aloft. The sooner he saw that her wings were useless, the sooner he would use his wind magic to save them. Suddenly, they weren't falling anymore. They slowed and were now holding steady in the air. Her wings...her wings kept them aloft. 68
Spellfire Commemorative Derek grinned. “I knew you could do it, baby.” She shook her head. The incredible, magnificent, fantastic feeling of flying soared through her heart. “I think you did it, Derek. You gave me your wind when you came inside of me...and you! Look at you!” She kissed him hard, her wings flapping as intensely as a hummingbird's. She ran her hands over his shoulders and back, feeling his muscles ripple beneath his smooth skin. He laughed out loud. “I think giving you some of my wind broke the spell.” Reluctantly, Harpy gently landed them behind the grove of trees at the back of Spellfire Park. “I'm so sorry I doubted you.” Harpy felt like she couldn't apologize enough...or touch him enough. She raked her fingers through his hair and kissed his warm lips. “When you turned into air and couldn't turn back, and wouldn't tell me why, what else was I supposed to think? Josh Nasterian turned into a tree, and Bobby Bedlam a brook, and they slept with Tris Havoc. I-I thought you did, too.” Derek took her face into his hands and kissed her. “I should have told you. And I might have, but it was so damned embarrassing. I thought I was the greatest air sorcerer that ever lived, and then to be bested by a mere fire sorcerer! I felt too ashamed of that.” “He didn't best you. Sounds like you two got what you deserved for spell-dueling.” She hugged him and her wings fluttered. Oh, she couldn't wait to get him in the air again...or in her bed. “But you shouldn't have been forced to live with it this long. Couldn't you have told Electra? She might have helped you.” “No. She suspected, but she couldn't make a counter-spell for spell-dueling without it alerting the Witch Board.” Harpy nodded. “And they would have ex-spelled you.” “Right. Roald and I agreed we didn't want to lose our powers indefinitely. Some sorcerers have had their powers revoked for decades by the Witch Board.” “So I've heard.” “Roald and I decided to live with the consequences instead.” Harpy hugged him again, reveling in the touch of his skin. She could hardly believe he was whole again...and still loved her even after what she thought he'd done with Tris Havoc all those years ago! 69
Spellfire Commemorative She didn't deserve to be this happy. Her wings quivered harder. Derek looked around them. “Let's find your clothes and get you dressed.” “I don't want to,” she murmured. “Let's fly again, Derek.” He kissed her and ran his hands down her body. His fingers splayed across her butt, and he jerked her toward him. His hard cock rubbed her mound. “In a little while, baby, I promise. I'll take you home and fuck you till your wings hang in tatters from sheer exhaustion.” She beat her wings and used the lift to wrap her legs around his hips. His cock nudged her wet pussy, and she moaned in anticipation. “Not...now...” Derek rasped the words against her ear. “I promise, soon...oh, baby, real soon...but I have to take care of something else first.” He unwrapped her legs and set her down gently. She frowned at him. “Okay, but I'm going to hold you to that promise.”
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Chapter Four By the time Harpy convinced Blaze Draconis to come with her, they saw Derek and Roald Rumsfeld walking from the back of the park towards them. Derek was dressed in jeans, shirt, and shoes that Electra conjured for him and Harpy sent ahead with Roald. The fire sorcerer's eyes were as large as super-scoops of ice cream as she and Blaze joined them. “Do you really think it will work?” Blaze blinked. “Derek, is that really you?” “In the flesh.” Derek laughed. “At last.” “H-How wonderful for you.” Blaze stammered and turned around. “I-I have to go now.” “No, wait,” Derek said, and Harpy put her hand on Blaze's shoulder. “I asked Harpy to bring you out here to meet Roald Rumsfeld. He's a fire sorcerer.” Blaze sniffled, as if trying to hold back tears. “Nice to see you again.” “Hello, Blaze,” Roald said. “I met Roald when I visited his grandfather, to see if he could help me regain my flames. He couldn't. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to get back.” “Just a minute, Blaze. We have something to show you.” Derek nodded at Roald. Roald held up his hands, and then removed his gloves. Flames twisted and curled from the tips of all ten fingers and thumbs. Blaze licked her lips and stared in fascination and awe. Tears welled in her eyes. “How can you all be so cruel?” Bursting into tears, Blaze again turned to leave, but Harpy put her arms around the distraught dragon-shifter. “Blaze, we think you and Roald can help one another. I'm only half harpy, and I've never been able to fly. Then Derek gave me some of his air in wind-form. He 71
Spellfire Commemorative changed back to his old self and now I can fly. Look!” Harpy unfurled her wings and lifted off the ground. She soared once over the park, and then landed smoothly next to Derek. “And you think—” Blaze wiped her eyes clear of tears and looked at Roald. The fire sorcerer looked back at her. Both of them held hope in their eyes, but seemed too frightened of the possibility of failure...much as Harpy felt before taking the chance with Derek. “There may be one hitch,” Derek warned. Blaze and Roald turned as one to look at her and Derek, and shouted, “What?” Harpy shrugged, furling her wings. “Derek and I were…well, in the middle of things, if you catch my drift…when it happened.” Blaze looked at Roald. “A-Are you willing?” Roald nodded. “Sure.” “Then let's go!” Blaze grabbed him by the sleeve and yanked, pulling him toward the grove of trees. Derek put his arm around her. “Blaze is going to get a surprise when he undresses.” She gasped and looked up at him. “You mean…” “Yep.” Laughing, Derek shook his head. “Blaze will have to shape-shift and Roald will get the blowjob of his life. That's the only way Roald and I could figure out how they could transfer his fire to her without harming her. I hope it works out for them.” “I think it will. Why shouldn't it? It worked for us.” She raised her mouth to his and they kissed. “I'm so sorry, Derek…” “Don't apologize again. I understand why you thought I'd slept with Tris Havoc. And it's partially my fault for not telling you what really happened.” He kissed the tip of her nose. “Let's put it behind us. We're together now, and that's all that matters.” “I'll never doubt you again,” Harpy promised. When they neared the Spellfire family picnic table, Electra ran up to her brother and gave him a big hug. Word spread rapidly and there were hand-shakes and hugs all around from Electra's husband Alex, cousin Adam Spellfire and his fiancée Tristine Havoc, and many others. Harpy even hugged Tris. She’d been cool toward the Havoc woman for years. Even after all of Tris' ex-lovers changed back to their real bodies, and Harpy realized how wrong she'd been when Derek didn't, she couldn't bring herself to be friendly to Tris. Now, 72
Spellfire Commemorative though, she had Derek back and, like Derek said, nothing else mattered. They tried to beg off, but Electra insisted they sit with them for the afternoon festivities. Harpy realized they couldn't be rude without blatantly saying they'd rather spend the afternoon making love. Her shoulder blades itched fiercely, and occasionally Derek would rub his hands over the nubs. His touch only made it worse. She wanted to sprout, grab him by the shirtfront, and soar with him above the clouds right then! After the music started for the Valentine dance in the gazebo, and she and Derek thought they might be able to slip away, a dark shadow passed over Spellfire Park, blocking out the late afternoon sun. Everyone looked up. A dragon, its wing span nearly as wide as the park, glided over them. Suddenly, the dark sky flared with light from the mouth of the dragon. As the flame died, the dragon turned to fly over the park again, and Harpy saw a man seated in front of the dragon's wings. “Blaze and Roald,” Derek said. The dragon shifted smaller as it coasted to land, and by the time it touched the ground, it wasn't much larger than a horse. Roald dismounted, and Blaze then transformed into her human self, fully clothed. Harpy and Derek ran to meet them. “It worked! Oh, it worked!” Blaze cried out. “Did you see my flame?” “It was beautiful.” Harpy was glad to see Blaze back to her former vibrant and confident self. Roald held out his hands and turned them over. “No more flaming fingers and no more gloves. I won't be able to mold silver with my bare hands anymore, but I can touch things again.” He reached for Blaze, and she went into his embrace. His hands ran over her arm. “Don't worry, darling,” Blaze murmured, “I'll be there to light your fire any time.” The dragon-shifter and the fire sorcerer laughed and kissed. Roald turned to Derek. “How can I…How can we ever thank you?” “No need for thanks.” Derek drew Harpy closer. “Just be as happy as Harpy and I are.” 73
Spellfire Commemorative Harpy looked up at Derek and smiled. “As happy as we will be forever.” **** It was much, much later before Harpy and Derek were able to slip away from Spellfire Park. They went to her townhouse to finish what they began after Derek changed back into his human self. He kept his promise, fucking her until her wings were tattered and sore. After a sound night's sleep, they'd be as good as new, but right then at nearly midnight, she felt sated and complete. It was amazing how much one's life could change in twenty-four hours. Harpy eased from the bed, leaving Derek asleep. She wrapped her robe under her arms and around her breasts toga-style and padded into the kitchen, her tired wings hanging limply behind her. She hadn't eaten since breakfast, and she thought Derek might be hungry, too. She pulled cold cuts, cheese, mayonnaise, and sweet ice tea from the refrigerator and bread from the box on the counter. As she spread mayo over two slices of bread, she felt a draft cross her ankles. “Derek?” There was no answer, and she didn't feel it again. It must have been a natural breeze from an open window. She unwrapped cheese slices and laid them on the bread. Another rush of air drifted across her calves. She needed to close that window. Before she could take a step, the air curled up her thighs and between them, tickling her labia. She gasped as her inner muscles clenched, sending waves of desire coursing through her. She leaned over the counter and spread her legs wide. The air pressed in closer to her, separating her pussy lips. A jolt raced through her as a concentrated current swept through them and nudged her clit. Harpy could hardly believe she was hot and ready again so soon, but when she thought of Derek, as air or in the flesh, her passion knew no boundaries. Her back arched against the assault, and she closed her eyes, undulating her hips to rub her clit on him. Another hard, solid current of air probed deeply into her wet folds. More air swirled up her body and surrounded her breasts, tightening on the taut peaks of her nipples. She rocked against the counter, her entire body rippling with the sensations that Derek's airy touch caused. A moan escaped her throat when he touched her inner spot. A 74
Spellfire Commemorative few more strokes against it sent her crashing over the edge, her moan turning into a cry of pleasure. When the aftershocks settled she collapsed on the counter, her eyes blinking open to find the air around her turning to a misty silver and then into Derek. His warm arms around her kept her from falling because her muscles turned to rubber. “Oh, Derek,” she said his name on a sigh. Trembling, she reached over for one of the crowns they tossed on the counter when they came in from the picnic. “You deserve to be named King Valentine because you are the King of Love.” Derek laughed and put the other crown on top of her curls. “And you are my Queen. Marry me, Harpy, and make me the happiest air sorcerer in the world.” She broke off in the middle of her laughter. Marry Derek? She wanted nothing more back in high school. To graduate and marry Derek were always her two main goals in life. They spoke of it and planned for it. They both wanted to open a little shop in Spellfire where Derek could sell his wind spells and charms and she would help him run it. When she thought he'd been unfaithful, everything changed...except her love for him. “It won't be exactly like we planned,” he continued as if reading her thoughts. “If Blaze wants her job back as Maintenance Engineer, she can have it. I still have Clean Sweep and you're at Sinful Sundaes. We won't have the little spell and charm shop we talked about, but we'll be together.” “Yes, Derek,” she breathed and threw her arms around him. “Oh, yes!” He hugged her tightly and they kissed, a long, deep, delicious kiss that tingled her to the tips of her toes and her wings. “What about Valentine's Day?” he murmured against her lips. “Marry me on Valentine's Day? “That's only a few days away!” she squealed. “I'd never get everything ready in time.” “We can have the wedding in Spellfire Park and the reception at Electra's and Alex's new restaurant, Garnet Moon,” Derek said. “Electra will pull it all together. She loves doing that kind of stuff.” “Yes, but I need a dress. And flowers. And—” Harpy's mind whirled with everything that would need to be done and only a few days to do it. 75
Spellfire Commemorative “Does it matter?” Derek licked her earlobe and traced wetly down the side of her neck. “Electra can conjure up what you need.” She let her head fall back, so he could trail kisses and licks over her collarbone and breasts. “No,” she murmured. “It doesn't matter. Nothing matters except that we're together again.” Derek nipped one of her breasts and then the other. Harpy's body melted with desire, her wings fluttering on the winds of their love.
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From
Spellfire Moons
Moonshyne By Jewel Adams Being the last moonbeam faery in existence makes Shyne lonely, until she meets Sheriff Malachi Spellfire, a shape-shifting demvir, who fills her emptiness with passion.
www.jeweladams.midnightshowcase.com www.jeweladams.blogspirit.com
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Moonshyne by Jewel Adams Chapter One She smiled as her skin tingled to life when she stepped into the circle of moonlight. Her delicate wings began to expand as the translucent fibers bathed in the shimmering moondust. They swayed under a breathless breeze until they glowed in renewing energy. She raised her face to partake of the moon’s rich light, thankful for another clear night in Spellfire Woods. Her soft laughter vibrated with her wings as they lifted her in a seductive dance in the moonbeams. But, Shyne’s pleasure in the moon’s beauty refused to reach her heart. She was entering another season and still her illusive lover failed to make himself known. Memories of the beast she ran with that first night in these woods came back to her again. She never even saw an animal like this in the city, the thought made her laugh. Spellfire held one surprise after another for Shyne. She didn’t have any difficulty in remembering the animal, dangerously dark, his long thick coat of black and garnet fur moved like small waves on a lake, and his fangs glowed in the moonlight much like her skin did. She caught the sharp golden light in his eyes when he looked up at her as they raced through the wood. She could swear he smiled at her, testing her. Shyne never felt the kind of freedom she did when running with him.
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Spellfire Commemorative She looked for him every night, even sensed his presence, but he never showed himself to her again. Faer Folk were known for their imagination, but she still believed he was as real as herself. Shyne pushed the memory away, to think on more pressing problems. She refused to acknowledge the failure of the love spell her friend Lillia made for her. As Lillia said, spells have a way of working when they are meant to find love. Of all people, Lillia and her new husband Georgiano would know about spells. Oh to be so in love with another. Lillia said that if Shyne believed then the spell could still bring her lover to her. Yet, Shyne failed to see anyone or feel any love sparks. Maybe she should speak with Electra, Alex told her that his wife knew more about magic than most witches, but they didn’t really know each other. When Alex offered Shyne the job as his hostess at the couple’s new restaurant Garnet Moon, she almost turned him down. The idea of moving to a new place terrified her. Shyne was happy managing the small Bistro for him in Houston. She’d learned years ago how to hide her identity, though Alex and his mother knew her heritage. Change always affected her in strange ways until she could once again control her emotions and halt the side effects. Shyne did a giggling somersault over the memory of her move here. Alex told her that Spellfire was different and she would love it here, she often wondered if he knew how much she cherish her new life at Spellfire. To be free to be herself, without fear, what a new and thrilling experience and one reason this upheaval over her season became so disruptive to her. The other Faeries actually teased her today at Sinful Sundaes, calling her a prude and saying she was no fun. Over the years, hiding became Shyne’s specialty and focus. Since coming to Spellfire, she still didn’t join in with their foolery so they usually stayed clear of her. They learned how painful her Faer sparks could be when crossed. None of them let her explain that they were a self defense mechanism like points on a star. But all Faeries could tell when it was safe to play tricks and tease, especially one of their own. Shyne left Sinful without finishing the special Stardust Sundae that Electra made just for her. She was so upset that she nearly disappeared in the crowd because of her sadness, something she must never let happen. 79
Spellfire Commemorative Moon-Faeries were rare, Shyne being the only one in Spellfire, but she remembered her mother’s warnings that she must never let her moon energy fall below a certain limit or she could disappear for life! Sadness could be a Moon-Faer's most dangerous enemy and being loveless suddenly became Shyne’s largest danger. If only she could ask another Moon-Faer about her dilemma, but even in such a special place as Spellfire no other Moon-Faeries ever appeared. Her own family was lost to her many years ago. In a swirling blaze of light, she threw off the thoughts of her family, knowing she mustn’t relive the pain that could cost her, her life. No, Shyne prided herself on being a survivor, she just hoped she wasn’t the only Moon-Faer left in the world. Malaci watched as waves of silver mist flew out from the iridescent beauty in the moonlight. As she slowed her wings down, a million specks of the moon’s silvery light clung to every seductive curve the woman possessed, and as if each tiny jewel could be felt, the beauty moved in an erotic dance to capture the energizing light. Her magic reached beyond the luminescent circle, Malaci felt himself lean forward, the desire to join her clawed at him. Shyne’s power could be very strong and he reminded himself not to give in to her allure. Yet, for just a moment, he wondered how she would react if he did show himself, un-camouflage his presence from the underbrush. How could any Demvir be proud of hiding in the bushes! A slight noise to her left slowed her air twirling, her wings moved so fast that she hovered in mid-air as if standing on land. Titling her head, she listened to see what might have made the noise. More than once she felt someone watching her here in her secret place, not even her best friend in Spellfire, Harpy Collins, knew that she came here to replenish her strength with each full moon. Multiple full moons were an added bonus for Shyne since moving to Spellfire. There, she heard it again, her nose twitched as it caught the scent of man, no, animal. “Both…” the whispered truth barely passed her lips as she spun about to confront the intruder. Her beast came back, she couldn’t understand why he refused to show himself. “Come out beast. Show yourself, it is not polite to take sneak peeks of others.” Her sharp sight scanned the area for movement. Whoever stayed hidden seemed to know she could see the slightest of movement in the moonlight. Unlike most normals or other residents of Spellfire, Shyne 80
Spellfire Commemorative did all things better at night. Give her a full moon and her powers were at their fullest. Right now, she didn’t like the idea of having someone watching her, even her beast, and stay hidden. Most Moon-Faeries, her parents included, were lost forever to those that coveted their powers. Her fingertips sparked in warning just before she shot up into the night sky, deciding to play it safe and escape. She should report the incident to the Spellfire Sheriff, but what could he do without a description. He couldn’t very well arrest an animal. She stayed over the clearing for a while to see if anyone came out of hiding. When all remained still, she left to head home, knowing that she would need to be more cautious. The thought of hiding again sent a violent shiver through her wings. **** Malaci watched as Shyne flew off leaving a trail of sparks in her wake. Her warning well taken, even if he knew she couldn’t truly hurt him. He watched her come here many times over the last few months. Tonight being the first time she sensed him. He knew better than to come this close when her powers were so fresh. At first, he came to see what the new resident might be up to at night in Spellfire Woods, as the Sheriff it was his job. Then he told himself he came to protect her from any other seeing eyes. The truth hit Malaci from the first moment he saw the bewitching Shyne. He wanted the demure, fragile Faer like no other female. No woman made his Demvir blood boil out of control like Shyne. Every delicate move, each enchanting flight she took in the moonlight became his undoing. He stretched out of his cramped position, shaking away the stiffness of remaining in one place too long. He’d do it again to see Shyne, knowing she would never let him get close to her any other way. Demvir and Faeries rarely mixed company, even in Spellfire. The thought of keeping company with the likes of Shai and her cohorts made his fur bristle and until now he didn’t understand his brother Damien’s fondness for the troublesome Shai. But Shyne was a Moon-Faer and not like most Faer folk. He’d never once witnessed her playing tricks on anyone, or use her powers to seduce an unknowing date. Malaci couldn’t say if she’d even been on a date with anyone since arriving in Spellfire. 81
Spellfire Commemorative Electra proved little help in finding out anything about Shyne. His sister actually teased him the other day over his off-handed question about her. “Does she interest you little brother?” “I’m always curious about new residents of Spellfire, Electra, you know that.” “Oh right, the job and all.” Her laughter made his shoulder fur bristle beneath his uniform. “Forget I asked, okay.” “Oh little brother, you know I love you.” She stayed his leave from Sinful with her sisterly smile. “She is beautiful isn’t she?” Malaci couldn’t swallow the rumbling growl low in his chest. He could tell by the lift of Electra’s right eyebrow that she heard it. He left the shop on the lilt of his sister’s laughter. He felt his blood begin to drum over his thoughts of Shyne’s beauty. Every opportunity he could find he watched her. Knowing she turned away any male advances didn’t ease his torture and she received too damn many at the Garnet! Malaci decided not to try, he would rather hold to hope that she wouldn’t reject him than to have it happen. Many times, he tried to understand his attraction to the whimsical creature. Since her arrival, he noticed that her moonlight skin practically shimmered, now. When she walked down the sidewalks, every male head would turn her way to watch the beautiful exotic Moon-Faer. Once, when he saw her laughing at something his brother-in-law Alex said she began to glow in an unbelievable welcoming light that begged him to come closer and touch her erotic essence. Still, he kept his distance, even when Alex wanted to introduce him to her at Garnet Moon’s opening, Malaci managed to avoid coming face to face with Shyne. They did have one major part of their lives in common. Malaci looked up at the brilliant moon now high in the night sky. Yes, both their lives revolved around the cycle of the moon. The moon actual led him to Shyne. He smiled over the cherished memory of that night. His Demvir blood rose to a fever pitch on that night with the first full moon. Malaci shed his clothing and let the himself shift to run free in the woods. To his surprise, he soon had company in Spellfire Woods running with him, only above him in the night sky! 82
Spellfire Commemorative Every turn he made she whisked through the air, racing with him on the ground as if they were in a great race. He took her on a wild ride that went on for miles and she matched his pace without tiring. As he slowed, he could hear the soft beat of her wings dropping in speed that kept her right above him. She glowed a soft rose color that teased his hot blood in a peculiar way. If she’d come closer, he would have caught the wild Faer and shown her how a Demvir tamed a Faer. As if she could sense his desire her lyrical laughter rustled through the pines as she twirled through the night sky and away from Malaci in his wild form. He growled over the memory and licked his fangs, wishing he could catch the illusive Shyne.
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Chapter Two “You really need to talk to the sheriff, Shyne.” “Oh Harpy, what could I say ‘oh sheriff I heard this noise, smelled this beast, just know that someone was watching me’ like the sheriff could do anything with that.” “You don’t know Malaci Spellfire, if anyone could track your peeping tom it would be our sheriff.” Harpy held the door to Sinful for Shyne to follow her inside. It was still early and the shop only had a couple customers. Shyne rarely came to Sinful’s this time of the afternoon, but Electra gave her the night off from Garnet’s. “Shyne, you really need to speak with Malaci. I’ll be right back, I need to go clock in and get my apron.” Acknowledging her friend, she scooted up on the stool at the counter. The threatening growl behind Shyne made her stiffen, she could feel the heat in her hands increase, ready to spark if necessary. Malaci’s senses were alive with her, he could smell her fear and sense the invisible fire shimmering around her like a shield. What he wanted to know is why Harpy felt she needed to speak to him. If anyone dared to hurt Shyne… She watched the man in the mirror that stood at her back. Shyne never heard such a dangerous growl as the one coming from him. But her attention went beyond the danger he posed to her feminine senses. Her Faer heart beat in her chest as fast as a hummingbird wings over the red-gold sparks glittering in his hard gaze, one that seemed very interested in her hips. As she watched him, his gaze traveled up the length of her back until he looked over her head and their gazes locked in the mirror. If a man’s smile could be heaven Shyne knew she’d fly until her wings flamed and burn to reach him. Those red-golden embers behind his 84
Spellfire Commemorative dark lashes sparked as if he could read her thoughts, sending a shimmer over her flesh that nearly roused her wings. His hand rose to touch his hat in a polite nod at her in the mirror before his hand reached out and turned her around on the stool to face him. He leaned towards her as if he might kiss her and Shyne had all she could do not to close her eyes in anticipation. “I heard Miss Collins say that you needed to speak to me, Miss…” Malaci flexed his shoulders to push down his Demvir stirrings. Being so close to her, having her scent invade his being as if marking him, brought out the animal in him. She gave herself a shimmer to get control of her emotions, visions of rolling naked with mister fire eyes made her insides flutter. “Shyne, Moonshyne Holiday.” His fangs showed through his lopsided smile and she wondered if she should fear what he revealed. Shyne deliberately sniffed his scent both man and beast Awareness shimmered through her like a warm summer breeze. The fact that she actually gave this man, her watcher, her real name would have had her running just months before. However, something told Shyne the danger this man held for her wasn’t life threatening. “Miss Holiday, I’m Sheriff Malaci Spellfire.” “Sheriff?” Her gaze dropped to his shirt, then his gun belt and what laid beneath it. His low sexual growl vibrated through her bringing her attention back up to his knowing smile. “Yes, the Sheriff. Are you having a problem Miss Holiday?” “No, no problem, everything is fine.” “It is not Shyne, tell him what happened.” Harpy slapped the counter with the dishrag, looking at her as if she were crazy. When no one said anything, “Someone is stalking her!” “No, not really, Sheriff Spellfire. Harpy misunderstood.” Her friend’s mouth dropped, but Shyne didn’t know what else to do. She couldn’t very well tell the man that she knew he was her watcher from last night! She scooted off the stool, out and under his arm to stand beside him as she inched toward the door. “I really need to fly, err run.” Harpy looked at her, “I thought you were going to eat here tonight?” “I…I think I better not.” 85
Spellfire Commemorative “Actually Harpy, I asked her to go to dinner with me to discuss her problem.” With Malaci Spellfire’s announcement, she felt him take hold of her arm in a way that didn’t allow for arguments. They were out of Sinful and walking down the sidewalk before Shyne could think of objecting. He escorted her to his car. She watched her beast man walk around the car, just seeing his tight backside wet her sex with need. “Harpy is right you know, you should tell me about this stalker.” Was he serious? She stole a look at him as he started the car and the angry set of his jaw made her question what her senses told her. Malaci knew he needed to do something and fast before she let loose with the sparks he saw coming from her tightly held fist. He decided to ignore her rising temper and drove out of town. “This is Garnet Moon.” Shyne looked at him as if he were the crazy one. “Right, I said we were going to dinner.” “But…” **** “Hi Malaci and…Shyne, I see you two have finally met.” Shyne could hear the surprise in Electra’s voice over their entry in the restaurant. “We’d like a table Electra.” Electra didn’t move for a minute, then turned into the hostess that Shyne usually would be. “Yes, of course, I have a lovely table right this way.” Shyne didn’t move until Malaci’s hand pressed into her back directing her to follow Electra. The table his sister led them to was the one they always gave to romantic couples that wanted to be alone. Shyne clamped her lips down and just smiled as they were seated. She suspected that Malaci knew he held the upper hand, unless of course she wanted to make a scene in front of her boss. Of course, there was no harm in letting Mr. Sheriff know that she would get even for this. Before he realized what she was up to her hand covered his as she smiled sweetly across the table at him. The electric bolt that went through the back of his hand and up his arm made Malaci stiffen in pain. He never dropped his gaze from hers until she finally stopped shocking him. 86
Spellfire Commemorative “The special is excellent Sheriff.” She took her hand away, rubbing her fingers together. With that, she picked up the menu and held it up in front of her so that he couldn’t see her face any longer. He slowly pulled his hand under the table, an uncontrollable growl escaped and she looked at him over the menu. “Did you say something?” All he could do, past his clenched teeth, was shake his head no. Shyne lifted the menu back up and smiled. So, Malaci Spellfire was her watcher, she wasn’t sure how she felt about the turn of events, but she knew he was the sexiest man she’d ever met. She saw those well developed muscles press in full regalia against his shirt as she shocked him. He barely flinched, to her surprise. Still hiding behind the menu, she brought her fingertips up to her nose taking in his scent. Yes, he was definitely her beast, her watcher. “Did you want the special Shyne?” She took a steadying breath before facing him. “Actually, I’d like the Atlantis dish.” If he wanted dinner with her than he would pay, the dish came with the rare Atlantis Starfish and lobster tail, a Faer delicacy that she loved. Malaci order a very rare steak to soothe the animal coming to life inside him. Shyne’s shock may have numbed his hand, but it lit a fire in his cock that her cold shoulder act wouldn’t cool. She made it clear that she wasn’t going to make small talk with him and Malaci smiled, knowing how he loved the challenge she posed. He proceeded to tell her all about his job and Spellfire. Once he stopped when telling her about the curse on Spellfire men from the Havoc women, she couldn’t help but ask him what happened. He smiled then told her how the curse was lifted, and then laughed softly over her relief that he could reach his fulfillment during sex. Her bright eyes half closed in the sexiest, most enticing, dreamy look as she stared at his chest. She loved the way his eyes became animated when he spoke of Spellfire. Their gold depths turn all coppery as his love for this place shined in his features. The dark sable and bronze curl that fell onto his brow made her want to reach out and twirl the dark satin between her fingers. But it was the dark patch of thick hair showing just above the edge of the open vee of his shirt that drove her crazy. Thoughts of 87
Spellfire Commemorative how his course wildness would feel against her tender breasts made the cream flow in her sex. Low and lustful, Malaci growled over the scent he caught from her. Did she realize he could sense her body’s readiness for him? Of all his brothers and cousins, at least the ones that inherited the Demvir gene, Malaci prided himself on being able to control his Demvir side the best. Caging the beast inside of him where Shyne was concerned broke all the rules. Her beautiful eyes glowed with their large irises, she started to get that soft rose glimmer about half way through the dinner, telling him that her guard finally dropped. He didn’t think she would like it if he told her how relaxed she became in his presence. He often wished he couldn’t read people so well, everyone said that is what made him such a good sheriff. Well that side of his being, which he took from his mother, said the Faer was hiding something. Malaci not only wanted to know what she feared, but he wanted to know every facet of Moonshyne Holiday. The touch of his finger tracing her palm made breathing difficult for Shyne. She couldn’t say when he first touched her, but at that moment every fiber of her being came alive to his essence. She could feel the beast that lay just beneath the surface. He could be wild and dangerous, but she instinctively knew he would never hurt her. Shyne had never felt so certain of anything in her life as Malaci. When they left Garnets, as Garnet Moon was sometimes referred to, his arm came about her shoulder bringing her up beside him, she didn’t object. Her own arm went around his waist feeling the leashed power beneath her touch. Malaci walked with her out of town and into the woods. Shyne smiled knowing exactly where he was taking her. “You are so beautiful in the moonlight Shyne, but when you raced with me, now that is wondrous.” She stopped and looked at him, earning his laughter. “Oh you! It was the first time I’d done anything like that.” He just nodded, “I’m a Demvir.” She shook her head slightly not sure what he meant. “And I’m a Moon-Faer.” “Ahh…” Malaci wasn’t sure how to explain himself to her. “You really are new to Spellfire.” “I am, but I love it here.” 88
Spellfire Commemorative “I shape shift.” “Yes, and you do it so well, Malaci.” Feeling more at ease with him now, Shyne couldn’t help but flirt with him, hoping to bring the beast to the surface. “I glimmer.” It was the most she’d said all evening and he wanted to hear more and took the chance. “Where were you before you moved here?” He thought he’d blown it when she didn’t say anything, but then she turned and looked at him. “Is this the sheriff, the beast, or the man asking?” Her voice didn’t sound as serious as he felt the question meant to her. “All of the above, Shyne.” Malaci moved closer to her, tucking a stray wave of her nearly white hair behind her elegant ear. “I want you Shyne, I have since I first saw you in these woods.” “But,” she moved her head to look into his eyes, “Why have you hid from me Malaci?” His head fell back and looked up at the moon wishing it could help him answer her. Instead, his lips came down and captured hers, first asking then demanding entrance to her sweetness. Shyne opened to Malaci moving into his embrace as his kiss explored the delicacy of her tempting mouth. His large hands framed her head, burying his fingers into her hair. Her own pulled at his shirt. She wanted to touch him and as her hands slid under his shirt her groan joined his growl and his chest muscles rippled beneath her palms. “You are so beautiful, Shyne.” He was pulling away from her. She wanted to cry, not sure how to stop him. “I want you, Malaci.” The truth silenced the forest around them. Hesitant, but needing to know how he took her declaration she looked up at him. “Malaci?” “I’m a Demvir.” “Yes, you are the beast I fly with, the one that has watched me from the shadows.” “Yes, but Shyne, you are a Faer.” “Moon-Faer Malaci, but why should that matter?” How could he tell her, he lowered his forehead to rest against hers. “I could hurt you Shyne.” She tried to move and his hands held her still, knowing he may only get this one chance to tell her. “When I shift I am…well, I can be wild.” 89
Spellfire Commemorative Her soft laughter broke through to him and he pulled back and looked at her. “Shyne?” “Malaci, I’m a Moon-Faer, you are a shifter under the same moon that I get my essence from, I’d say we are nearly the same.” She took hold of his hand that started to shift during their kiss. “You have claws,” she placed her palm against the bottom of his paw “I have sparks.” He smiled at her, marveling over the woman before him. “I’ve wasted too much time, haven’t I?” “Oh my yes.” Her laughter filled him with hope. She started undoing the buttons of his shirt. “We won’t know unless we see what happens, Malaci.” As they helped one another to get their clothes off, they explored each other until Shyne shimmied up against him and moved over him with the most erotic movements. Malaci realized that she was glimmering and it was the hugest turn on he’d ever experienced. Like a thousand tiny electric shocks she moved her body over his, bringing his alive until his cock pressed against her in the most male way possible. He didn’t fight the effect she wielded over him and let himself shift before her, which excited her even more. Shyne felt her wing unfurl and shake under her sexual arousal. She couldn’t have imagined how perfect it would feel to have his body touch her. When the full length of his cock push against her mound she wanted to jump him, anything to make him put his power inside her ready sex. “Malaci, I want to feel you buried inside me, touching that part of me no man has come close to. Love me, Malaci!” Her needful eyes looked wild and shy in the same glance as they swept over him, coaxing him closer in all his animal glory. All thoughts of being careful fell away under the fire she called from him. “Fill me, Malaci. Drive your beast into me, let me hold you and love you under our moon.” Shyne took his paw and pressed it into her breast causing her head to roll back as he kneaded the pearl nipples. When his mouth covered the sweet sensations, her wings lifted her off the ground and he wrapped his arm around her to keep her with him. She buried her fingers into his hair and pushed his head down past her breasts, moaning in pleasure as his lips and teeth explored her stomach, then 90
Spellfire Commemorative lower until Malaci’s tongue plunged between the hot lips of her sex to tantalize her swollen clit. He licked and sucked her sweet sex until she bucked in his arms and her flesh turn a rosy pink. Malaci lowered them both down onto the carpet of grass. He spread her thigh to receive him, each touch of her flesh against his created a fire that ran through his Demvir blood. Malaci never felt the beast part of him meld with his man form and be as fierce as he did at that moment. His hands held her hips, positioning her to take him and he howled at the moon that watched their magical union as he drove into her willing folds, sheathed himself where no man ever touched and no one but Malaci would ever enter! The glory rose inside her and she feared she would explode as he filled her and she held onto to him learning the breadth and depth of the man that now claimed her. She moved over him in the way that only a Moon-Faer can love her mate, shimmering and glimmering with all the energy of the moonbeams. Stardust circled them, holding them in that silver globe of sensations that sent their cries up to the night sky and together they rode the horizon of ecstasy!
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Chapter Three “I don’t know Malaci…” “What do you mean, you don’t know?” his growl of displeasure didn’t help the tension between them. “It is just too soon, I need time.” The hold he pulled her into forbade any argument. “You are mine, Shyne. I love you, I know you love me.” She could see how deeply he meant his vow, her own love for him tore at her heart. “Yes, I do love you.” His kiss nearly ended the argument that she didn’t want to have, but Shyne needed to be sure…sure that it truly was love that Malaci felt for her. “Malaci, please, just give me some time.” His body felt like a tight spring under her hands and she feared he was loosing the battle with his temper. “How long Shyne? How long do you need before we get married?” “A couple months.” “Too long, Electra and Alex already said we could have the reception at the Garnet Moon. We can hold the service in the woods and …” “Stop it Malaci!” Shyne pulled out of his arms and moved away, needing the distance to think. “A month then.” He stalked around her as if he were hunting down prey and she knew she pushed him too far with her evasion. “Please, Malaci, it is all so fast, I need to catch my breath.” She could feel the change rush through her body as her rose stardust took over. Malaci saw it too and knew she wanted him. “I love it when you glow like this for me.” His tongue ran over her lips tasting her and the touch of fear she couldn’t hide from him. One thing he learned about Shyne was that she glowed a sexy rose color when she became aroused, but even that alluring trait couldn’t vanquish the fear he sensed. “What is the real problem Shyne?” 92
Spellfire Commemorative After a week of loving Shyne every chance they could be together, he knew she wanted to be with him. He felt the delay might have more to do with her past and he wanted answers. “I just need to plan things, that’s all.” Before he could interrupt, she held up her sparking hand. “Sorry, see this is what happens when I can’t control myself. I spark and change moods. I sparked a patron last night because my thoughts drifted to you!” His laughter didn’t make her feel any better. “Alex had to comp that horrible Perry Normil’s meal.” Malaci pulled her to him, rubbing his hands over her back and soothing her ruffled wings. “He’ll get over it Shyne.” “He hates me.” “He hates Faeries of all kinds.” “Then he should move!” He felt her snuggle into his chest and he wished they were back in the woods. She needed to replenish her energy tonight, he saw how tired she was even if she refused to admit it. “We will go to our spot tonight. After you gather your moonbeams we can go for a run.” “I’d like that, Malaci.” “Maybe you could tell me then what is really bothering you, Shyne.” She took a deep breath and stepped back to look at this wonderful man. “I will try, honest.” He knew she meant it, but he wished she could be more open with him. “I’ll come by and pick you up after work.” Shyne waved as he drove off before she entered Garnet Moon. When Alex saw her enter, he motioned for her to come over to the bar. She was glad he was back from his business trip. “How are you Shyne? Electra told me the wonderful news about you and Malaci. He’s a good man Shyne.” “He is wonderful, Alex, and I love him.” Those intense eyes of his studied her over his glasses. “So what is the problem Shyne?” A Faer couldn’t hide much from a Vamperian, the fact Alex knew her since she was a child gave him special knowledge. She could feel the tears pricking at her eyelids, “I’ve done something very wrong, Alex.” Before he could question her further his French, ghostly wine steward came up through the floor from the wine cellar with a 93
Spellfire Commemorative problem. Shyne used the interruption as an excuse to escape. However, the look Alex gave her said he wouldn’t let it drop. Shyne managed to avoid Alex, and when Electra offered to hostess that evening Shyne jumped at the chance to leave. She needed to find Lillia and speak with her about the spell she cast. She loved Malaci with all her being, she needed to know that he loved her and it wasn’t just the results of the love spell. She never should have messed with magik! Not willing to take the long walk back to town, Shyne unfurled her wings. She rarely risked exposing her true self, but this was too important. The flight to the library nearly took the last of her energy. When she reached to open the door, she groaned and she shook her hand to stop it from fading. She needed to replenish her energy tonight, loving Malaci took a lot out of her, but how she cherished their times together. **** Lillia wondered who could be casting such a radiant light in the library until she saw her new friend Shyne walking towards her. “Shyne how nice to see you.” They hugged and Lillia could feel how tense her friend was. “What’s wrong Shyne?” “Can we go somewhere to talk?” “Of course, will my office do?” With her nod of agreement, they entered the book-lined room. The door barely shut before the pretty Faer started pacing. Lillia noticed that Shyne was casting a rose hue about her today. “Lillia, I’m in so much trouble.” “Calm down and tell me what has you in such a state.” “I’m in love.” Lillia smiled, so the news Georgiano heard is true. “That is wonderful Shyne, I’m so happy for you.” “Don’t be, I need your help. Oh Lillia everything is ruined!” Silver tears ran down Shyne’s flushed cheeks, but what concerned Lillia was the fact her friend seemed to be fading right before her eyes. When she met Shyne and they became fast friends, Lillia took it upon herself to do some research on Moon-Faers. She found very little information about them. An old newspaper article did mention the suspicious disappearance of a couple, Holly and Austin Holiday. The Witchard Gazette stated that the Moon-Faer couple 94
Spellfire Commemorative were believed to be abducted for their power to turn moonlight into silver. The article didn’t mention any children but Lillia suspected they were Shyne’s parents. A later article did mention the MoonFaer’s dangerous propensity for fading away. Most reports said it could occur from sadness or pain, so Lillia never mentioned her parents to Shyne. It was also the reasons Lillia agreed to do the love spell for Shyne. “Talk to me Shyne. What happened to have you in such a state?” “The spell Lillia, he loves me because of the spell!” “Oh no, Shyne, that just isn’t true.” The girl’s eyes grew large as she tried to still her hiccups over Lillia’s announcement. “But you said it was a Love Spell.” Shyne could feel herself fading once more. “Yes, but it was a spell to bring your lover to you, nothing more.” She could see the questions filling the girl’s distressed features. “Shyne, he had to love you to find you. So you see he already loved you before he actually met you. Without loving you he couldn’t have found you.” As Lillia’s words sunk in she could see the tension leaving her friend’s features, once again she glowed in her luminescent rose stardust. “You haven’t told me who this fortunate man is, Shyne.” She smiled, “Malaci Spellfire.” “Oh my, he is the town catch! You will be envied by every single girl in Spellfire.” Their combined laughter filled the small room as Shyne proceeded to tell her friend all about Malaci. Shyne’s steps barely touched the ground as she left the library. The sun was beginning to set and she realized she needed to get back to the Garnet and meet Malaci. Her wings itched to take flight, but the town was alive with people and she didn’t want to bring attention to herself. Many people said hello to her as she walked down the sidewalks. Working at Garnet Moon helped her to meet many of Spellfire’s residents. She noticed Perry Normil and the horrible woman that was always with him, watching her. She walked across the street just to avoid getting closer to them. Shyne refused to let either of them spoil the joy in her heart. As she reached the outskirts of town she almost exposed her wings until she heard a car approaching. 95
Spellfire Commemorative The vehicle must have been going very slow and she thought they were afraid to pass her, so Shyne moved off the pavement and onto the shoulder to let them pass. As the dark car came up beside her, Shyne refused to let the old fears overtake her, but the hands grabbing her arms and yanking her back off her feet were only too real!
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Chapter Four “What do you mean she isn’t here?” “Calm down Malaci, I gave her the night off. Alex is back and I wanted to be here tonight, no sense keeping Shyne on duty when I can do the job.” He growled at his sister, unable to keep his worry in check. “If she comes back here, tell her to stay put!” Electra watched her brother storm off. She felt Alex behind her before his lips kissed her shoulder. “There is something wrong between them, Electra.” “I know, but they will need to find their own answers my love.” He spun his wife around in arms, “As we did?” “Hmm, and wasn’t it a thrilling ride Alex.” He kissed her seductive smile, “It still is…” **** Darkness enveloped her as she slowly regained her senses. Whoever grabbed her did a good job of tying her up and gagging her. The pain in her cramped wings became unbearable. Shyne tried to concentrate and hear what was happening around her. She could feel the cold floor beneath her, deciding it might be better to play unconscious to see if she could learn something about her abductors. Shyne refused to let fear overwhelm her, knowing that in her weakened state it could possibly kill her. “Are you sure we have the right fairy?” “This is the one that, that creep of a mayor pointed out.” “But how can you tell if she is the one?” She wanted to groan over the argument going on between the two men. “We will know soon enough, when she starts crying silver!” So, they wanted her for the moon’s silver. She wished the normals didn’t have that old saying about “silver linings” if they couldn’t tell if she were a Faer than how could they possibly see her 97
Spellfire Commemorative silver? The fact she knew they wouldn’t became a greater threat than being tied up. Malaci, my dear sweet love, if you can sense me, please find me. I don’t think I can survive for long. Shyne concentrated on Malaci and only him, she blocked out the horrible voices in the room and what they had planned for her. She kept her thoughts on her love for one special Demvir. **** “Lillia, calm down, just tell me when Shyne left.” Malaci used his voice to soothe his mate’s best friend. Yes, they didn’t need a wedding, they were already bound by their love for each other and as the truth entered his troubled thoughts, Malaci could sense Shyne’s presence. He heard what Lillia said, but all of his concentration turned to what he felt from Shyne. He raised his hand to silence the room and listen harder because she sounded so very weak. Malaci’s heart squeezed over the pain he felt from her. “Talk to me love, let me know where you are.” Lillia looked at her husband, Georgiano and their gazes locked in understanding for what Malaci was experiencing. It was Georgiano that spoke up to Malaci, “Go to her, let her lead you to her, all you need to do is listen.” Malaci nodded in understanding just before he ran out of the room to follow Shyne’s call. Once outside he wasn’t sure which direction to take, he turned left and her voice instantly faded from his head. Turning and running through town Malaci focused on Shyne and their love speaking to her through his thoughts just as she spoke to him. I’m coming sweet Shyne, keep talking to me, think about our woods and how we made love in the moonlight, tell me how it felt Shyne, speak to me. Malaci nearly choked on the love she filled him with, every whispered word spoke of her love for him. With each step in the right direction, he shed another piece of clothing and shifted until the beast inside him came through and broke into a run at Slither Swamp!
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Chapter Five More than one clump of his fur hung from the thick growth of briars, the cuts did little to slow Malaci down. Shyne’s voice still spoke to him but he sensed her pain and the weakness she fought not to succumb to. He didn’t miss Lillia’s earlier frightful statement about Moon-Faer, how they could fade from existence! “You stay with me, Shyne. Keep talking to me so I can reach you.” Time was running out and Malaci’s rage increased over the truth. There! He stopped in mid-stride and listened. Her scream came to him through the darkness and he leaped in the direction. It only took a minute for him to come upon the lit cabin at the edge of Snake Marsh. He hadn’t been in the swamp since a high school dare and his skin crawled over the memory. As soundless as possible he came up under the window to plan his attack to save the woman of his heart. “I said give me your silver, bitch!” Another hard fist connected with Shyne’s jaw, nearly beheading her. Tears filled with the silver they wanted sprayed across the man’s shirt from the force of his attack. She could barely keep her swollen eyes open from her loss of strength. I love you Shyne! Malaci’s enraged voice echoed in her head. She saw his beast form burst threw the window, sending glass and wood everywhere. The man holding her let her go and the two men scattered, but Malaci moved with a speed she knew him capable of maintaining for great distances and a power that only rage could spawn! Shyne gave up her fight, Malaci found her and that is all that mattered now. When he saw her fall to the floor in an unmoving heap, the fires of pure wrath filled his body and he caught the vile objects of his 99
Spellfire Commemorative rage, venting more force on them than Malaci ever thought he could possibly possess. Bones cracked and the scum that dared to harm Shyne fell in useless heaps on the floor. No movement came from either man when he kicked them once again before moving to Shyne. With a gentleness he never would have expected moments ago, he lifted her in his arms. He could barely see his beautiful Shyne, her rose hue now barely resembled blotches of dust from the ground. “No Shyne, I’ll not loose you!” As carefully as possible, he gathered her up in his hold and with a renewed burst of strength Malaci raced with her out of the cabin and through the horrible swamp. When they broke free of the darkness he didn’t slow his gait knowing exactly where he needed to take her. With infinite care Malaci laid Shyne out in the circle of moonlight. He straightened out her battered wings so they could capture the moonbeams, his growls turned to whimpers of pain for what she suffered. His claw traced the bloody bruise on her lip, tearing a wretched howl of pain for her to the moon. He called on their moon’s power to heal his love. As he waited he slowly shifted back to his man side, his own energy spent on the rage that filled him. Trembling fingers smoothed down her tangled hair as his tears fell. Malaci rocked back and forth on his heels as he waited for the moon to heal all her pain and bring his Shyne back to him. **** Past hurt made her fear the opening of her eyes, but Shyne sensed his nearness and wanted so much to see Malaci. But would those men be there in place of him? Terror filled her once again, preventing her from trying. “Shyne.” Did she hear his voice? She tried to move towards his direction. “Moonshyne Holiday, you listen to me right now! I won’t loose you to fear, we can face it together. Do you hear me?” Malaci waited as he had throughout most the night as the moonbeams bathed Shyne in their healing light and he watched as she healed within their circle. Still she refused to open her eyes, her movement told him she heard him and he wasn’t going to let her slip away once again. “I love you Shyne, more than I ever thought a man could love another! You are my life, my desire, dear Shyne. I couldn’t go on without you at my side.” 100
Spellfire Commemorative His fingertip caught the silver tear that slipped from the corner of her closed lashes. “I can see your silver, Shyne, and it is beautiful just as you are. I love how you glow in rose stardust for me and glimmer with moonbeams. Our children will be striking with my darkness and your light combined. I want many children Shyne. Faer or Demvir, I want them all.” Her lips closed over the tip of his finger as he traced her bottom lip while he told her of his desire. She couldn’t tell if she drew her strength through the moon or Malaci’s love. A shuddering breath of relief passed through Malaci as he watched her delicate eyelids flutter open and she looked up at him. “Malaci…” “Oh yes Shyne, I’m here. Right where I’ll always be, at your side.” “Love me my beast.” “Oh woman, I already do.” If a smile could hold substance Malaci knew he just captured hers and placed it in his heart. His laughter rang out as he watched her glimmer into a deep rose red that cast their world into a heady glow of sexual desire. “I want you, Malaci.” Between his kisses across her cheek he vibrated in answer. “I can see that Shyne.” When his lips covered hers they battled for dominance and for the first time Malaci let his lady win. She shimmered beneath his exploring hands as she drove her tongue deep into his mouth showing him exactly what she wanted him to do to her. But before Malaci could respond he found himself on his back and Shyne sitting astride his hips smiling down and him. “I think it is my turn my beast.” With a look of triumph, she wasted no time in devouring his flesh. Her touch electrified his body and each lick or kiss intensified the experience until he was breathless. She called his Demvir blood to the forefront, refusing to let him tame his wild side, for she wanted it all. Shyne laughed when he tried to slide her under him and she used her wings to complete the roll and end up back on top. Her laughter sounded like a thousand birds singing against his deep growls of pleasure and frustration. When she rolled her hips over 101
Spellfire Commemorative his growing need, his savage roar turned her on even more. Her fingers wrapped around the thick size of his cock, guiding it to her hot entrance. Warm and tight, she took him in, holding him, caressing the full length of his sex. “Hmm, such a wild beast my love. Shall we see how well I can tame it.” If he didn’t know her, he might have worried over the look of devilment in her eyes for him. He watched as her wings spread out in full regalia, and with each marvelous movement of them she came down over his shaft with a stroke that tingled and sparked, something he never expected. Each time she rose up the sparks would flow up and when she rushed down they flew over him in all the excitement they garnered. He matched her glint of pleasure with his own, just as he matched her thrusts until all the emotions of the night drove them into each other, claiming what they each feared they almost lost. When they reached that pinnacle of pure feeling, Malaci held Shyne up to take his explosion and he prayed he buried his seed in her womb, deeper, ever deeper, and her sex wrapped around him, quivering against his shaft until they both cried out into the rays of the moon.
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Chapter Six “Oh Shyne I can hardly wait, this is going to be such a beautiful wedding for my girl!” Malaci watched Alex’s mother gush over Shyne’s invitations before leaving them to find Electra. Shyne smiled up at him as she walked into his arms. His warm breath tickled the point of her ear, sending sparks down her spine. “Why don’t you stop her, Shyne? We don’t need all this.” Her warm hands cupped his jaw bringing his attention back to her and away from the arousal he wanted to continue. “She needs this, Malaci, she’s practically been my mother since I was 8. Let her have her day.” She let him nuzzle her neck again. “Alright my love, but do we need to invite the whole town?” Her laughter floated over him. “No we don’t, in fact I think I’ll do a little list trimming right now.” Shyne moved out of his arms faster than he could react. Malaci turned to see her scoot out of Sinful Sundaes and head straight for Perry Normil and Frightful Frieda out on the sidewalk. Electra stayed him by the hold on his arm, “She needs to do this, brother.” They, and every patron in the shop, turned to watch as Shyne let her sparks fly at the running Frieda and Perry! Each of them kept jumping each time she hit their backsides with one of her well-aimed lightning bolts! Shyne was giving Frieda and Perry their comeuppance, and he was glad for this, since he couldn't throw them in jail with no proof they were actually connected with his beloved Faer's kidnapping. Laughter filled the shop, the Faer Folk cheered. Malaci relaxed when Shyne stopped her payback and brushed her hands off, taking a bow before her clapping audience. He almost regretted telling her that 103
Spellfire Commemorative he found out that the terrible couple actually pointed Shyne out to her kidnappers, who were now behind bars. It took a moment for Malaci to shake off the horror of the memory. “Not to worry little brother, I’ve placed a spell on your lovely bride, no one that means her harm will ever know her secrets again.” Malaci turned and hugged his sister. “Thank you.” “Hey, I can’t have the mother of my nephew in danger.” He looked at his sister and almost asked how she could know if Shyne was pregnant and with a boy no less! Then he just smiled as Electra laughed and pointed at Shyne and the barely noticeable blue glow that started to surround his beautiful Moon-Faer!
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SPELLFIRE COMMEMORATIVE NEW STORIES Grolim Bridghid Parkinson Nymph Gardens and Elfen Moons Jewel Adams
Shadows & Darkness Mae Powers * * * *
Moonshyne's Treasure Hunt Jewel Adams
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The Grollim by Bridghid Parkinson Lovers hidden away in the dark of night might not know there are eyes watching over them. You never can tell what lurks in the shadows.
http://bridghidparkinson.blogspirit.com www.myspace.com/dbparkinson
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Grollim by Bridghid Parkinson Terri Torarcane sat at the desk after hanging up the last call. The dispatcher’s workplace for the Spellfire Sheriff’s department stood sparse in office furniture and decor. In this town there needed to be eight dispatchers on revolving shifts. The only mundane personnel were two witches on dayshift. Terri was the only one with a connection to the Grollim. Even the long time residents of Spellfire seldom understood the Shadow People. Unknown, they lived in the deep caverns underground, or in shadows around buildings. The Grollim guarded the abandoned hospital building, formerly known as the Labyrinthine Institution housing tuberculosis patients at the turn of the century. On a hilltop, now overlooking the Interstate highway, the Grollim preferred to remain anonymous. Good spirits could aid the law enforcement, or magical creatures helping others, and some of the criminal spirits facilitated the darker elements of Spellfire. Her connection to the Grollim was a rare commodity, and heavily guarded by those few individuals who knew her well. Her greatgrandmother had been a nurse in the old Labyrinthine facility. Where medicines of the times failed, they used witchcraft and sorcery for the treatment of tuberculosis and other diseases the State medical administrators didn’t discuss at the time. The earliest shamans from the native tribes of the area knew the Grollim in the initial days of Spellfire History, but the relationships changed as the population grew. “A car has a flat near Labyrinthine? Kids? Thank you, Diz,” Terri 107
Spellfire Commemorative said, coming out of her reverie. The shadow form on the wall waved as if a human stood between the wall and a distant light source. The movement slid down the wall and out of sight. Terri reached for her radio microphone and hailed an officer she knew to be in the area of the car. “What’s your status?” “10-8. Patrol I-45.” “Disabled vehicle, service road near Labyrinthine, please investigate.” “10-4, ETA 2 minutes.” Terri snickered to herself. The older officer was perfectly normal for a Vamperian, but he did have a peculiar appearance when encountering humans that knew nothing about Spellfire. It was important to keep kids away from the old hospital because of the quantities of old medical equipment buried in the area. Glass bottles once held blood for transfusion and broken remains could cut through boots. The grounds also held remains of the state ward patients, which were laid to rest without markers. No records remained after a fire that gutted all but the heaviest cement portions of the structures. Land developers tried to rebuild the structure, but any planning soon stopped without explanation. Rumors would abound and wild campfire tales fueled teenagers’ attempts to explore the old building. **** This is one hell of a time for a flat. Daddy is going to call me a liar and I am going to be grounded until I am thirty years old. Daniella waited for Jason to come back from checking the road for stray metal. The chrome of Jason’s cell phone in the dash caught her eye, and she called her father, “Daddy? We have a flat tire, I’m going to be a little late. Oh! No! I can prove it. Jason’s phone has a camera in it. I’ll send the picture to your email.” Daniella felt bolder in asking her father for a cell phone when they finally arrived home. She scrambled out of the car quickly. Jason took the camera, “Sir… I’ll take the picture now. She’s wearing the blue shirt we just got from the concert over the black jeans. Yes, sir, she still has her regular shirt under it.” Daniella sighed. It might not matter whether or not there was a legitimate problem on the way back from the concert. In spite of the 108
Spellfire Commemorative chains hanging from his jeans, and the blue concert t-shirt that matched her own, Daniella appreciated the way he remained respectful of her father. Tomorrow, they would go back to school, with their simple honor student styles, but tonight they enjoyed a hard rock concert, and a walk on the wild side. His spiked hair didn’t move in the wind along the road even as he nodded while talking to her father. “Yes, sir. J-M-Dawson at fdtc dot net… got it... the pictures will be there soon. Yes, sir! The concert was great! It was worth it to go to Galveston for it! We are just south of Houston so we shouldn’t be long at all. Thank you, sir. Yes... it looks like I’ve hit a nail or a sharp piece of metal that lay in the road. We took a service road that my Dad insisted was a short cut. The spare is good. Thanks, sir.” Daniella stepped around the front of the car and leaned against the right front quarter panel of the older Chevy. Her hair, with added blue streaks against her natural dark brown tones, whipped around her face until she tossed her head and let the wisps flutter behind her. She hoped her dark makeup wouldn’t upset her father because she put it on while riding on the way to the concert. Jason snapped several pictures and she did her best to smile, with some hope she might see Jason again. At least I’ll have a picture of the evening. The flashes brightened the area around her. The wind whistled around the old buildings in the area; now blackened shadows against the dim night sky. A cacophony of squeaks and moans began to rise and echo from the hills. “Did you hear that?” Daniella asked. She turned just as another flash went off. A high-pitched squeaking noise fluttered through the air with an ominous, unnatural flair. “Hear what?” Jason stopped and realized the sound of bats or an odd animal came closer, their wing beats and cries sounded like the sound track from a horror movie. “Get back in the car!” “Why?” Goosebumps rose over her flesh. “Do it!” Daniella and Jason both leapt into the car and slammed the doors shut. “What is it?” Daniella asked. “I don’t know.” Jason finished rolling the windows up with the old style crank on the door, but his hands were shaking. “Damn! That was creepy!” 109
Spellfire Commemorative Daniella looked frantically around the car windows trying to see the source of the noise. She couldn’t view anything on the dark night so close to a new moon. The odd sounds diminished into the night. “What in the hell was that?” Daniella demanded “I haven’t got a clue!” “I’m scared.” “Hey... it seems to be gone. Everything is going to be okay.” Jason wrapped his right arm around her shoulders. He pressed the buttons in the menu to send the pictures. “Trust me, we’ll be fine, you know how the old stories of the Indians used to get to us riled up on the camping trips, I think it’s the same thing.” Daniella enjoyed the feel of his arm around her. She could barely see him in the darkness around them. However, she hoped the evening might even end in a kiss. Light wasn’t needed for something she craved. Thoughts of the concert made her smile because of the way he held her close in the crowd. This time, she didn’t have to cling to him amidst a bunch of people, and the comforts of his touch made her skin tingle. She rested her head on his shoulder and noticed his heartbeat. His chin brushed her head and she looked up into his face, becoming clearer as her eyes adjusted to the light. If he moved closer, by even a centimeter, she would close the gap for the kiss. Jason’s phone rang again and he answered quickly. Drat, I was hoping for something and the phone rings. Daniella tried not to let her disappointment show. “Sir? What do you mean? No one is with us. We are on an empty service road off I-45. I took both of the pictures.” Daniella stared at Jason’s bewildered face and knew instinctively that the phone call was from her father. “I don’t know what you are talking about. Shadows?” Daniella’s heart started pounding. “Maybe there was dirt on the lens. I carry my phone in my pocket.” Daniella watched as Jason’s eyes widened and his arm pulled away from her and gripped the steering wheel. “No sir, I used my right hand to take the pictures, it couldn’t be my hand in the picture! No sir! Defiantly not my hand over her... her chest... that’s not something I would send. A shadow of a man in a cowboy hat? No, sir! We are by ourselves.” The rap on the window caused them both to scream. 110
Spellfire Commemorative “Easy. Easy! I heard you two had a little trouble... would you like some help with that tire?” Jason held the phone tightly and stared. A man stood by the door in a law enforcement officer’s uniform, complete with a cowboy hat. “Sir, help has arrived. I think that may have been what you saw, the driver is wearing a cowboy hat. Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.” “I didn’t mean to scare the britches off you folks. We got the call that you were having some trouble.” Jason finally dared to get out of the car and Daniella followed his lead, walking around the front of the car to get a clear view. The man looked old in a worn, felt cowboy hat. At the top of the hill, behind them, Daniella could barely see the outline of a police car, yet, was immediately struck with the realization that the lights weren’t flashing. She noticed, too, that there were no other cars in the area. She rationalized that the noises they heard were probably some mechanical problems with a truck nearby, but they were on an isolated road. It’s not an emergency, it’s just a flat tire. I hope he’s really a cop… “Who called you?” Jason asked the old man. “The dispatcher.” The officer said flatly. “I mean who told them?” “The Grollim.” “Who are they?” “It’s a... uh... family around here. You ain’t from around these parts are ya, kid?” the old man asked. Jason answered slowly. “No, sir. We live in Houston, north side. She’s originally from Austin.” Daniella couldn’t see her hand in front of her face and she barely had a glimpse of the man when the interior dome light was on from the car. She reached over and cracked the driver side door so she could try to see their rescuer. “Missy, if you’d be obliged, I can see better with the light off. Don’t worry, I ain’t going to hurt you guys.” He shielded his face by tilting his head down so that his hat hid the upper part of his head from her view. Daniella could distinguish the leathery skin of his chin and mouth in the faint light. It was only a glimpse, but enough for her to estimate the age of the man as at least seventy. Jason looked up and nodded his head to confirm the request to 111
Spellfire Commemorative close the door. The man worked silently to change the tire. She noted Jason fidgeting with the contents of his pockets, something he did when nervous. They watched the old man fish a jack out of the car, and with a few quick cranks, the car raised up for room to work. The old man was swift with the available tools, and, with a few turns of the lug wrench, got the tire off. She heard the old man bounce the spare out of the trunk and the echo sounded like an enormous basketball. Daniella felt confident the spare tire would hold at least until they got to her house and she could have her father check the tire. “Sir?” Jason asked again, tentatively, “Who are the Grollim?” “Why... well, that’’s a... uh, family in this area. They must have seen ya. They just let us know y’’all might need some help, that’’s all.” A few more turns of the wrench tightened the tire back into place. The old officer spun the jack crank quickly and the car lowered to its normal height. “It’’s appreciated,” Jason said. “Not a problem at all. You’’re all fixed up here.” The old man brushed his hands together and pointed to the tire. “I guess it’’s a good thing the tire went now because you had a bit of a bald spot going on the inside. Looks to me like the alignment might be off and that will wear out a tire... right quick, it will.” “Thank you, sir.” Jason opened the back hatch and the car dipped as the old tire hit the floor of the trunk. “I’ll get that looked at… soon.” “Good. You two younguns take care now, thanks for visiting Spellfire!” When Jason sat back in the driver’s seat, his face looked ashy white in the dome light of the car. “Whoa! That’s too weird!” “What’s a… Spellfire?” Daniella asked. “I have no idea.” With the doors closed he gripped the steering wheel so tightly that his hands squeaked against the smooth plastic. “What’s the matter?” Jason flicked his finger in the air to stop her. He started the engine, checked for traffic and pulled back onto the road. He looked into the rearview mirror behind him, as if he were afraid someone could hear him and then he leaned over to quietly mention, “If I didn’t know better, I’d swear that guy had fangs!” **** 112
Spellfire Commemorative The crackle of the radio almost startled Terri. “Driver in distress, resolved, flat tire, no suspicious behavior. First time visitors to Spellfire.” “10-4, Trin. Acknowledged. Thanks for helping them out.” “318 returning to Patrol, 10-8, in service.” “10-4, 318.” Terry snickered at the thought of the regulations stringent officer talking with two teenagers in the dark of night. He knew to keep his face out of sight, and close his mouth to cover the fangs that sometimes emerged. She turned the radio back to the scanning settings and listened to the quiet hum of the static. For a Wednesday night, unless there was a medical emergency or a fire, it would be quiet. **** Pretty Lady. A shadow moved closer to the couple under the bleachers of the school football stadium. Good Man. Loves Pretty Lady. Even with heavy coats the couple embraced, under the coats, their hands and clothes danced against each other’s skin. Soft. The two faces before him locked together as if they were breathing together. Panting and sweating in the cool night air, they moaned. “Damn, I feel like a kid again,” the man said. The woman giggled in response. “Hey, the doc said it might help to relax and relive some old memories. I think when the baby is meant to be, it will come. We can have some fun in the process.” “Yeah, good advice, making out under the bleachers again. God, I’m so hard a cat couldn’t scratch it!” He sat on the ground with his back against the cinder block wall. His pants unzipped and lowered to reveal his erection. “Oh, let me help you with that, bad boy! Don’t worry, Daddy won’t catch us. He’s babysitting for us tonight.” The man snickered as she lowered her hips and spread her skirt around them. His wife moaned softly as they moved together with his back against the wall. The couple glowed with the love they felt. Good. 113
Spellfire Commemorative “Yes, that’s it,” she said. “It’s good that I don’t react like a teenager.” “Oh, yes. I know,” her moans lingered. No animals disturbed them because Diz kept them away. His desire to participate in a scene like what he saw before him threatened to drive him crazy. He longed for a body so that he could hold Terri and love her. The echoes of loneliness hounded him over the years and he wanted to touch in the ways the humans took for granted. From the days of the old tribes, he longed to touch the human beauties, but when they no longer walked in the sun, they would leave. The humans called it death, but it was merely a beginning where a spirit might come to the world he lived. They were rare; mostly people didn’t want to be like him in the darkness. Always in the shadows. Their movements became quicker as the woman panted in his arms. She let out a low guttural moan. “Oh, yes,” she panted, “that’s it.” “Don’t stop!” “No… I won’t. God, I’m so close.” “Good. Come for me. Ride it.” In the dark night, they panted together. He could see the glow inside her become brighter as her back arched. His light brightened and they stopped moving. Clinging to each other they calmed, but the light didn’t diminish within the woman’s body. Swirls came together and a quick burst of light calmed to a gentle glow. They wanted this beginning. Good. Yes, Baby will come. Sweet Baby. Baby loved. **** “Diz?” she asked. Merratodiz was his full name. Humans often shortened it, though the Old Shamans could pronounced it correctly. From Terri, as long as she acknowledged him, he didn’t care how she pronounced his name. =Hell-lo, pretty Terri.= “Are you going to the park?” Terri asked. =Walk with me. We must go.= “Oh, you sly devil! I am working. I get off work when the sun comes up!” Show her later. Make her understand ‘bad’ under town. There 114
Spellfire Commemorative had to be a way to make her understand the walks. He wanted to not only touch her, but make her understand the danger he found in the earth under Spellfire. He had to try getting her closer to the source of bad magic he could feel at the old house. “Catch me tomorrow night at home, I am not working.” =Yes. Bye, pretty Terri. Must go.= “Diz, are you going out?” =Yes-s-s. Must go. = “Let me know if you need anything.” Terri offered. =Yes-s-s.= Terri smiled. Pretty, Terri. Pretty like Nurses. Nurses help people. Good help. The shadow form dropped down the wall, a tiny crack in the baseboards let the thin substance of the body through to the basement, through the pipes of the plumbing and out to the town of Spellfire. Terri good. Her family is good and live with the Grollim. Want Terri come to live with me when she doesn’t walk in the sun. Through the gutters and drains, a body that was almost immaterial wound around the houses to a large black box buried in the deep soil. No touch. Bad magic. No touch. Inside he heard a song, softly hummed. =Pretty song. Pretty Abby. No touch Bad Magic. Abby safe.= =Thank you.= the spirit of the woman replied to him. =We must make people understand.= =Soon, Diz,= she said and became quiet with her humming slowly dissolving into the shadows of the night. Diz guarded the void surrounding the beautiful voice of a woman he could not see. He waited, dreaming of a day he could make Terri understand.
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Nymph Gardens and Elfen Moons Jewel Adams The love of nature and the song of a child bring Dan and Bess together; but will it be enough to keep their hearts bound forever?
www.jeweladams.midnightshowcase.com www.jeweladams.blogspirit.com
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Nymph Gardens and Elfen Moons Jewel Adams
Chapter One Dan Whistler rarely made a trip into Spellfire, even though his farm laid within the city limits. “Stay beside me Amanda.” He gently ruffled his daughter’s carrot top hair, more to be sure his daughter heard him than for affection. When the girl looked up and smiled, Dan relaxed a little as they entered B.E.S.S. Nymph’s Nursery. He decided he must really be desperate to have listened to his neighbor, Zechariah Taylor about coming here. What could some nursery owner do to help his land? “What’s the count on those cucumbers, Mr. Pricket?” “108 and counting Bess, you really weren’t kidding that those plants would produce.” Dan watched the smiling old man tip his hat to the woman behind the counter. So she is Bess. The straw hat she wore was enough to make him want to turn away, he figured it was all for show to sell her wares. Before he realized it Amanda left his side and was following the straw hat lady down the flower isle. He kept his daughter in sight, but something made him hang back, Amanda wasn’t one to take to people. Bess sensed her shadow before she reached her destination and turned to see the girl. Her large blue eyes were smiling up at her and Bess returned the girl’s greeting, “Ah, here it is, a troubled rose that a friend of mine brought in. Do you see these ugly dark buds?” She caught the child’s nod out of the corner of her eye. “Well, that has to stop. I wonder what is wrong with her, Amanda.” The girl 117
Spellfire Commemorative came closer to look the plant over. Bess rarely extended her physic abilities beyond the plants, birds and insects, but she felt Amanda’s silence, and decided the child needed her skills right now, so Bess listened. “What did she say, Amanda? I missed it.” Dan watched, with his mouth agape, as the girl spoke to his daughter as if they were actually talking. “Oh my, her roots are all bunched up?” The girl’s red hair bounced over her enthusiasm. “Please tell her for me that I’ll get her a much larger home with lots of fresh soil.” Bess turned to face the man behind them, deciding it was time to acknowledge his presence. It didn’t take magic to know the man was the girl’s father. The same deep red hair and gorgeous sky-blue eyes. But the girl’s hand on her arm stopped her from speaking to her father. “Yes Amanda, what it is it?” She waited for the excited girl to communicate with her from the girl’s silent world. “I don’t mind a bit if you help give Rose a new home, but we should ask your father if it is alright. Okay Amanda?” The girl didn’t look hopeful, but she finally moved her head in acknowledgement. “Good.” Bess didn’t think Amanda’s father looked very agreeable at the moment. “Hello, I’m Bess Green.” “Who put you up to this?” “Wha…oh, no one.” So he wasn’t a part of Spellfire’s special residence; she didn’t figure him for a Normal. She knew he couldn’t see her pointed Nymph ears beneath her chestnut hair or the light, greenish blue shade of her skin; a blending of her Dryad and Naiad nymph heritage. No, the protection spell surrounding the town prevented non-believers from seeing. She looked at Amanda and without speaking she said to Amanda, “So, you are alone with your special gift?” The girl nodded her head in answer to her unspoken question. “Well you aren’t alone any longer, Amanda.” “I said…my daughter is not alone, I’m here.” “I heard you, Mister…?” “Whistler, Dan Whistler.” “And as I said, no one ever puts me up to anything. Yes, you are certainly here.” Shamelessly, Bess and the girl giggled together. “Sorry, I’ve been speaking with your daughter Amanda in the manner that she prefers to communicate.” She refused to look away from the forceful glare of disbelief that the man threw at her. “Amanda, would 118
Spellfire Commemorative like to help give Rose a new home. While we do this, why don’t you tell me why you came into town and here to see me, Mr. Whistler?” If she were a man, Dan swore he’d take a swing at her smug face as she turned away like royalty and his daughter followed her to find a pot! He didn’t have to go after them, he could see every move they made and every bit of the one sided conversation she continued to have with his daughter. “How can she do that?” Dan pushed down his fury as the question he spoke out loud hit him. “She’s really talking with her.” The awed admission took over his concentration.. He saw his daughter light up as he never thought he would ever see the girl do. Amanda lived in her own silent world and rarely became animated over anything. Seeing her now, acting out her pleasure, nearly took Dan’s breath away. He remembered the last thing his wife told him, ‘Take Amanda to Spellfire. She’ll be fine there.’ To this day he wondered what possessed him to believe her. Yet, something drove him to come here and try to make a go of Mary’s family farm. Bess Green, could she be the reason his daughter needed to be here…they didn’t even know her nor she them. Dan couldn’t understand what was happening, but for the time being he would swallow his anger and disbelief for his daughter’s sake. Bess felt Dan Whistler behind her before Amanda turned and smiled at her father. The girl started pointing to the various items that she mixed into the soil before pouring it into the pot. “Please Miss Green, tell me what she is saying?” She sensed what it took for this formidable man to ask her assistance. Bess proceeded to tell him all that Amanda rattled off for her father. It wasn’t long before Mr. Whistler joined in on the replanting of Rose. The aroma of fresh earth seemed to emanate from the man, something Bess never encountered from a Normal. Maybe she misjudged him too quickly. Right now his earthly essence overwhelmed her senses and she needed to step away from the man to gather her thoughts. “Miss Green…are you alright?” The large hands that took hold of her arms belonged in the soil she so loved. It felt as if he were melding with her through just his touch, as if his roots were entwining with hers in an old world sense. The excitement became more than she could assimilate… 119
Spellfire Commemorative An explosion of sound surrounded them as the girl went limp in his hold. Dan scooped her up and held her in an undeniable embrace of protection. Why he needed to shield her escaped him, but the strength of it hit him like a fall from a tree. “The noise! Amanda?” He looked from the woman in his arms to his daughter, Amanda uncovered her ears and looked all around them. Dan could see his daughter’s attention jump from a small brown wren chirping loudly, to an excited buzzing bee and a frog in the pond at the base of a large Chestnut tree. He watched as the girl spread out her arms and started turning in a slow circle and gently began to lower her arms. Dan thought what amazed him the most was to see his daughter’s lips moving as if she were talking to the creatures. With each inch Amanda’s arms came down, the clamber of noise calmed until all became normal. “Did you just do that Amanda?” The girl raised her brilliant gaze to meet her father’s and slowly nodded as if fearing to admit it. “Wow, that’s really something Amanda. Now, can you help me with Miss Green?” The girl smiled and pointed to a bench. Dan only hesitated for a second, deciding that now wasn’t the time to question all that just happened. He took a seat still holding the slight woman to his chest. She smelled like a field of sweet peas and wild roses. What he failed to notice before is that her skin appeared to glow in what he swore looked like bluish shimmers of diamonds. Amanda placed a cool cloth on her brow and broke Dan’s concentration. He noticed an odd smile upon her face as her eyes shifted from him to Ms. Green and back again to him. A stir in his arms made him look back down at the strange woman. Within a few moments Dan watched as Miss Green’s lovely eyes flutter open, when they focused on him a deep blush filled her cheeks. “Are you alright?” He decided he should ask himself the same question. Dan rarely paid any woman notice since his wife’s passing, but he couldn’t deny how much this odd woman turned him on. Bess failed to escape the commanding gaze capturing her own. If she answered truthfully neither of them would recover, for at that moment all she wanted to do was feeling him plant his rock hard staff 120
Spellfire Commemorative inside of her… “I’m hot, I mean it got hot, no that’s not right, heat, it’s just plain hot. Could you put me down please?” When he stood up, if her feet were touching the ground she didn’t feel them. The sparks from her breasts pressing up against his chest created a whirlwind inside her. “Hot, yes, I’m so hot…” Her admission came in a breathless rush as she forced herself to step away from the fire he ignited. In all her life she never touch upon pure, sexual fire in any man. Dan tried to hide his pleasure over what he instinctively felt caused Bess Green’s condition. Reluctantly, he released his hold on her, slowly pulling back when he felt sure she could stand on her own. He never knew a woman could blush such a desirable rose pink, it made her even more attractive. Odd, Dan couldn’t remember ever thinking of a woman as being desirable, at least not since his wife passed away. Seems as though Miss Green touched both the Whistler’s in a special way. Right now Bess imagined that her aurora would be as fiery as his appeared. They both cleared their throats at the same time and Bess couldn’t help but laugh softly. When they both started talking at the same time, even Mr. Whistler lost the battle as his deep-chested laughter rang out across the woodland nursery.
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Chapter Two Amanda kept running to the window looking to see if Miss Green were coming. Dan wondered again over the way he just invited her to the farm. Even when she stated that she may need a couple days to figure out the problem with the crops, he didn’t hesitate in saying she could stay in the guest room. “She’ll be here, Mandy, she probably couldn’t get away from the nursery as early as she wanted.” But before he could think of another excuse Amanda left, racing out the front door. Dan walked over, trying not to rush himself as he looked to see if she really did come. What he saw made him shake his head. “She walked here?” He couldn’t believe it, but there she was walking through the meadow towards the house. Amanda took off, racing to meet her. Dan wasn’t sure how he felt about his daughter’s attraction to the woman or his own. He decided to reserve judgment for now. One thing he did notice was the odd way the grass and flowers in the meadow seemed to lean towards her as she walked through them. Her fingers floated over the petal tops, touching as many as she could as she passed. “She certainly is different.” He watched as she stopped and kneeled down just in time to catch Amanda as his daughter flung herself into Bess’ outstretched arms. How could one woman do what no one, not even those high paid doctors, ever accomplished with his daughter? And in such a short time. She swung the girl up in her arms and held Amanda on her hip as she continued to walk up the hill. He could see the two of them talking in their special way and Dan actually felt jealous and wished he could join them. You can Dan, just believe… 122
Spellfire Commemorative Bess saw the man straighten off the porch rail and she knew he heard her. If you can hear me, you can hear you daughter. Just give it a try. For now she would let him think on her words, there was much to accomplish during her stay her at the Whistler’s farm. She stopped walking for a minute and took the time to turn and look over the bare tilled fields. “Something is very wrong here, Amanda.” The girl pointed to the far field and told her the darkness lived there. She hugged the girl and set her down to run back up to the house and her father. “Darkness? The question is what kind?” Bess turned away from the trouble she felt surrounding the place and focused on the man waiting patiently for her. She didn’t miss one nuance of Dan Whistler. He too held trouble inside and she wondered which secret would be the most difficult to discover. Nature and all her wonders were as much a part of Bess as the air that she breathed. She could hear the creatures and plants, they would help her, but Dan’s fields were silent, only the meadow sang in the breeze. The truth brought a chill to Bess. She tried her best to shake it off as she walked up the steps to face Mr. Whistler. “Tell me Bess, why didn’t you let me pick you up? I didn’t realize you lacked transportation.” “Hello to you too, Dan.” Her smile melted his frown. “I prefer to walk. Think of all I’d miss if I didn’t feel the earth.” He caught how she wiggled her bare toes before putting her sandals back on. “Put that way, how can I argue? Did you feel what my problem is?” She turned and looked back at the fields. “Not yet, I need to go out there…it will take some time.” The touch of his hand on her shoulder immediately pulled her attention back to him. He wanted to feel her and wished the shawl she wore would disappear. “It can wait another day, dinner is ready. I hope you won’t mind, we are vegetarians.” “As I, sounds perfect.” Dan escorted her to her room and told her to freshen up while he put dinner on the table. Bess didn’t bring much, no need for things. She watched father and daughter from the hall entrance as the pair set the table. Dan used sign to talk to Amanda. If she accomplished nothing else, she wanted to give Dan the ability to hear his daughter’s voice. 123
Spellfire Commemorative She could sense that Amanda possessed Nymph blood, probably Dryad. The girl’s natural abilities with nature spoke volumes to Bess. Her mother must have carried the Nymph heritage. She thought quite a bit about Dan’ late wife, since he and his daughter arrived in her life. It seemed that the girl’s mother passed sometime ago. Amanda lacked any training in her special gift. Bess would try and help Amanda find her voice, though it would be difficult. Most Nymph children are given their voice through early training, so they fit in the world. She never heard of any child gaining their voice at a later age than three. Both Dan and Amanda started laughing and broke her concentration. Dan spoke up first, “We will need to figure out a signal when we should not bother your thoughts. Mary used to…” Bess caught his slip and smiled into the questions filling his gaze. “Women do fall into wool gathering more than men.” She let the incident pass and took the seat that Dan held out for her. The feel of his finger gliding over her bare shoulder, made her take in a deep breath. She wondered if he realized how strongly that subtle touch affected her. His fingers still tingled from touching her beautiful skin as he wanted to do since she entered the house. He took a liberty that he probably shouldn’t have, but to have her so close to him…“The butter is soft, we churn our own.” Taking the dish from him she smiled into his glorious eyes. Oh yes, he knew exactly what he did to her. **** Dinner proved a grand time and Bess marveled over the dishes that Dan prepared. It seemed the man possessed many talents, except where Amanda was concerned. All through the meal and evening she carefully watched their interaction with each other and though they both signed, it seemed an unnecessary task. If she didn’t know better she could swear that Dan could hear Amanda’s thoughts as well as she did. The only explanation that she found for Dan’s odd loss rested simply in belief. The man just needed to believe in his daughter and his own ability to hear her. Bess grew curious as to why this man would not accept what he saw in his daughter. The only explanation she could fathom rested with his late wife, Mary. She didn’t believe he would speak of her willingly. 124
Spellfire Commemorative “Amanda fell asleep the minute she hit the pillows,” he said after coming back from putting his daughter to bed. “Did you know that your eyes glow a deep green when you go into your thoughts like that?” Dan moved around to stand in front of the strange, yet beautiful, woman leaning against the porch rail. “The sunset must do it.” Dan decided her smile could melt a man’s heart. “And would this same sun make your hair glow all gold in the fading light?” “Now that would be chestnut red, not gold.” Bess’s laughter seemed to flow on the breeze. “Chestnut is it? I will remember.” When she felt his finger trace the long curl at the side of her face, Bess couldn’t help but close her eyes and lean into the strong, large palm of his capable hand now cupping her cheek. Dan felt mesmerized by the beautiful Bess as he lowered his head to taste the erotic lure of her mouth. As she moved into his embrace, his arm came around her waist and he brought her the rest of the way, to meld her lush curves to his firm strength. Like fire she seeped into his blood and he couldn’t get enough of the feel of her pressing against him. His hands moved over her as if memorizing each enchanting curve, relishing in the way she fit against him. When his fingers buried themselves into her thick, satin hair, Bess moaned in wanting, exciting him even more. With one large hand he pressed her buttocks, grinding her against the evidence of his own desire for her, and she moved over the solid length of his hard cock, until the cream flowed and she felt hot and needful, willing to give Dan Whistler what no man ever touched. She drew in his tongue, savoring the blazing taste of him. They battled for dominance and it was a war Bess gladly lost, for she savored each parley, each sexual gist before bowing to his power. Like a giant tree he wound himself around her and she couldn’t get close enough. Without thought her fingers slipped the buttons from his shirt, exposing the commanding chest beneath her tender fingers. Her lips lowered to taste him and he let her move over him at her leisure as he held her. “Dan…I want you.” The feel of his hands on each side of her face brought her attention up to meet his waiting gaze. One so powerful, she felt sure he could devour her with the fire lighting those blue depths. 125
Spellfire Commemorative “I’ve not wanted any woman, for a very long time, Bess.” “I sense that Dan, and I have never been with any man.” She could see he understood the intensity of her admission. “Bess, I can’t promise forever…” Dear stars in heaven, he watched her eyes water as his words penetrated the desire burning in their realm. His thumb gently rub her cheek. “Bess, I want you, but I can’t make any promises…” Her fingers reached up and silence his words, their meaning already plunged into her heart. On tiptoe she reached up and replaced her fingers with her lips, slowly gentling the fire burning between them. Through short kisses she spoke, “I don’t know if I want any promises, Dan. Devotion, love enough to make this special, but I can’t say forever any more than you can.” With her last word she looked deep into his eyes, “I want you, plain and simple, Dan Whistler.” She held her breath waiting for his answer, knowing she just went against every vow she ever made with herself, the first being she would be a virgin when she made love to the man she would love forever. Even as she thought this over, the truth came rolling through her, I will love him forever, he is the one. Bess closed her thoughts away, refusing to let anything spoil what she found when his lips retook hers in a kiss she would remember for eternity. In one breath he lifted her into his arms, never breaking their kiss as he walked them down the hall to his room. His glowing gaze devoured hers and Bess blessed whatever force brought him to her. Whatever Dan Whistler may be, he wasn’t a Normal, no human man could stir her earth fires as this man now did. He followed her into the soft billowy comfort of the bed he placed her on. Dan stared down at this amazing woman realizing just how fragile she truly appeared. His heart cried out never to hurt her and he prayed he wouldn’t. “Bess…” “Shhh, Dan Whistler, my heart hears yours, my soul is already bound to your own. How can this be wrong?” Her finger traced his full lips as she spoke her thoughts to him. “I’ll not lie to you, Dan. I am a little frightened by the power you wield over me.” She looked up into his wanting gaze. “I have heard about this kind of power, but it vanished many centuries ago.” 126
Spellfire Commemorative He wanted to silence her, but she shook her head and refused to let him. “It must be said Dan.” Nothing could have pulled him away from her at that moment. “I am a blending of Dryad and Naiad, my Nymph heritage runs strong in my blood. For you to hold such fire over me, your own blood must carry the Mother’s charms.” “Bess…” She could tell he didn’t want to speak about it, but Bess refused to go any further without knowing that her heart did see the truth he took pains to hide. When he rolled off of her and sat up Bess felt her heart begin to split. Her hand soothed down the length of his broad back. His head titled back and she knew he fought her touch and what it did to him. “I am sorry I have ruined our time, Da…” He moved with a speed she didn’t expect and she found herself pinned beneath him. Dan stared down into her large eyes, hating the tears he witnessed forming. His hand brushed back the wild curls from her flushed face, his lips tasted the fine sheen of dampness on her brow, such sweetness… “You haven’t asked for anything that shouldn’t have been offered to you, sweet Bess.” Dan waited for her gaze to focus on him. “Your heart speaks true. The Mother’s soul runs deep through my Elfen blood and you my dear Bess have awaken this poor elf from a dark sleep of anger and remorse.” Her hand came up to comfort him and cup his cheek; he smiled at her. “But then you sensed this part of me, the side of me I’ve tried so hard to bury.” “We can’t hide from ourselves Danu’ell.” The unexpected use of his Elfen name seemed to lighten his heart. He turned his head a bit and kissed the palm of her hand. “Thank you, Bess.” His lips trailed down her arm, to her shoulder and neck as if he were a starving man. She kept her hand at the back of his head and arched into him, giving him the freedom he wanted to explore her. Her heart sang a love tune to match his rhythm and she allowed herself to feel the full strength of Danu’ell. Every breathless kiss made her skin shimmer to a wilder pitch and Bess felt the fires coursing through her veins. She parried his kiss with her own powerful response and they tossed within each other’s embrace on the large bed. She felt small and cherished in his arms, yet 127
Spellfire Commemorative commanding and beautiful. And when his lips covered her breast and his teeth nipped the sensitive nubs, she cried out for his touch, pressing her heat against the force of his sexual prowess. “Take me Danu’ell! Show me what they speak of in whispers and love songs. I want to discover all you can give me.” She reached out to take hold of the powerful length of his sex, pressing him to her. Lost in the feelings he stirred to life, she moved against the pulsing length of him. She molded the hot spice of her sex over his staff, drawing out his hungry groan, wildly satisfied, knowing he felt the same ecstasy that she did. Dan’s hands couldn’t get enough of her and when his cock moved against the warm flow of her hot sex he wanted to bury himself in the earthly heaven she offered. It took all his power to remember this was her first time and he must be gentle, but Bess was anything but gentle in his arms. With each new touch she turned wilder, more brazen and wanted to explore him as well. He tried to keep his weight off of her, fearing her small frame couldn’t take him. Yet, she would pull him back and entwine her legs with his until their bodies tried to meld as one. Bess moved the swollen head of his shaft against the most wanting part of her heat, groaning over how hot and desirable it made her feel. “I want to feel you fill me, bury yourself inside me, Danu’ell, touch me where no man will ever know but you.” Her lips found his and she kissed him deep and meaningful. “Take me to that realm of love, my Elfen warrior, show me why all the songs are sung.” His large hands held her hips and he positioned her. She arched her hips higher to touch the pulsing head of his cock and Dan knew he never saw anything so beautiful as Bess. She shimmered like diamond dust and her eyes glowed as she smiled up at him and ran her tongue over her bottom lip in the most erotic manner. He bent down and licked her belly button, her soft laughter floated around him and he pressed himself into her tight heat. Her warm fluids flooded over his throbbing length as he gently probed her. Dan held her hips tight, never relinquishing his hold on her gaze and lunged deep and clean in one swift move, burying his shaft to the hilt inside her heat. He held himself still, her nails dug deep into his forearms, but she never flinched nor cried out. Her sex tightened around him and he never felt so loved. Ever so slowly he began to 128
Spellfire Commemorative move, sliding out then in, taking it a bit further each time until she began to match his movements. She pushed harder wanting to feel his heated power inside her. All the pain long forgotten, she felt starved for what he held back. “I want you deep inside me!” And she thrust upwards with all her might to prove the point, her womb taking in his full length, moaning over the pleasure she felt as he filled her, tickling her deep inside. “Yes, like that, but harder my great warrior.” For he was an Elfen warrior, once he opened his heart to her all his anger and pain came rushing inside her and Bess knew now of the battles this warrior lord tried to forget. Yet still, he kept his loss of Mary from her. She closed her eyes and concentrated on his movements, matching him with her own vigor as he drove into her, burying that wonderfully long and powerful cock deep inside her. He needed time to heal and Bess would not interfere. Thoughts of the past were forgotten as she gave herself over to feeling all Danu’ell gave her. They rode the winds, roaring with the force of what each found in the other’s arms. The stars exploded for Bess and she discovered why the songs were written.
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Chapter Three Dan turned over in bed and reach for Bess to pull her against him. After a night of love making he still couldn’t get enough of her, just holding her felt like heaven. But when he couldn’t find her, he bolted up in the bed. “Damn it, where is she?” Wrapping the sheet around him Dan jumped off the bed and headed out of the room. He could hear voices coming from the kitchen. She almost burst out laughing when Dan came charging into the kitchen half naked. Zachariah nearly chocked on his coffee, his laughter came, hard as it was through his coughing. “Good morning to you, Dan. Thought I’d come over and see how the detective work is going on the fields?” Zach threw a wink at Bess that made her blush, but the scowl that Dan threw them both made her turn back to the stove and work on the pancakes she was making. She took a quick look when she heard the bedroom door slam shut and she looked at Zachariah. “I guess he isn’t a morning person.” Shamelessly they both burst out laughing. Zachariah finally stopped and pushed away from the table under Bess’s argument to stay. “Nope, I think I’ll take my exit while I can. Tell Dan I’ll be back around tomorrow afternoon.” He tipped his hat to the pretty Bess. “My, but that man sure put a glow on you this fine morning.” With that he left her to stare after him as his laughter sang out once again. “Oh dear, what a mess!” She was so busy watching Zach and thinking about Dan, she forgot she was holding up the pancake spoon and the batter dropped and splattered everywhere. 130
Spellfire Commemorative Bess was down on her knees cleaning up the mess when she was suddenly whisked up into the air and settled in Dan’s lap, his strong arms felt wonderful and she leaned forward and gave him the kiss she wanted to wake him up with. It was sometime before either of them allowed any separation of their lips. Bess felt breathless after the deep claiming kiss Dan just gave her, making her wonder if he realized how he acted. She smiled into his questioning look and kissed him long and luxuriously, deciding it best to let him find his own answers where she was concerned. Amanda joined them for breakfast just as the sun rose off the horizon. Bess listened for the birds and insects, but regrettably heard very little activity outside Dan’s house. She couldn’t hide her frown from him when she caught him watching her. “We will go out to the fields together, Bess.” He looked pointedly to Amanda. “You’d best start getting ready for the bus, Amanda.” She started to object, but caught the fierce look coming over his face. “I’d like that Dan.” Whatever lay out beyond the meadow was a threat that Bess decided she didn’t want to face alone. **** The lifeless dirt blew through his fingers as he watched Bess gaze out over the barren ground. Nothing he tried healed this ground and he feared Bess wouldn’t be anymore successful. He stayed crouched down studying her as she titled her head. He wondered what she listened for and failed to hear. His own guilt washed over him as he watched Bess move around. He’d lost touch with nature and the Mother’s wisdom, while trying to deal and forget past pains. Seeing how Bess embraced nature, made him realize how very misguided he truly became these last years. In slow steps she turned in a small circle to listen in all the wind’s direction. Dan felt his heart squeeze tight when he saw the glistening tears falling down her iridescent cheeks. “Bess?” Her head fell forward before she rose her face up to look at the wonderful man walking towards her. She so wanted to help him, but… “What’s wrong Bess?” His hands took hold of her arms. “Tell me.” 131
Spellfire Commemorative He waited as she finally raised her gaze to meet his and he could breathe once again. She looked so hurt. “There’s no music.” His left brow rose in confusion, and then his arms pulled her to him and he held her within the safety of his embrace. She rested the side of her face against his strong chest and took a deep breath over the fierce beat of his heart. “Everything has left this area.” His hand soothed down her hair. “I know, it is like nature has been driven out.” She pulled back from his chest and looked up at him over his statement. “Yes! That’s it!” Bess turned within the circle of his arms to look out over the plowed fields that held not one green sprout in their depths. “They’ve been forced out.” Dan’s arms tightened about her over the tremble passing through her body. He didn’t have to ask the question he feared to voice, she knew what his thoughts spoke. “It’s a dark evil that took over this land and it won’t give it back without a…fight.” Bess felt the iron power flowing through the man at her back. He could be a fierce opponent, but she needed to give him more than just a threat, he would need to know what enemy he faced. “We need to seek our Mother for answers, Danu’ell.” “Bess…” She turned to face him, halting his objection. “She can help Danu’ell, only She knows this enemy, one that has driven out all animals, birds, insects and nourishment from this land. Only the Mother can help now, Danu’ell.” Bess didn’t object when he pulled her back against his chest. She wondered how many moons passed since he spoke to the Mother; could Danu’ell bury the past? Had he healed enough to find his way back to the Elfen way? Her heart felt heavy for his burdens. As she looked out over the fields her tears once again began to flow. “We must cure this evil Danu’ell, so many of nature’s creatures have been driven from their homes.” “We will find a way Bess.” In silence she prayed that his vow would come true. The wind picked up, suddenly battering them as if it could push them off the field. “Danu’ell?” Her breathless fears spoke out. 132
Spellfire Commemorative Dan grabbed her hand and pulled her with him, shielding her from the force of the sudden wind as they made their way back to the meadow. Just as the stepped into the green grass of the open field the wind instantly died. Breathless and battered they both stared back at the dust devils whipping through the barren fields like vicious guards. Neither of them spoke as they turned to walk back to the house to meet Amanda’s school bus. Dan let Bess go to his daughter as he fought to control his rage over their brutal discovery. He felt that he needed to conquer more than past pains to face the battle coming his way. Bess’s words about the Mother came back to him. He wondered if he could find the way back to her path and all he shut away after Mary’s death. Mary…she too tried to help him heal, but he’d been too stubborn and angry to listen. Her death only pushed him further away from his former Elfen life. Even overcoming the human stigma in his blood, in retrospect, wouldn’t come close to what Dan felt he faced in his life now. He shook off the ill thoughts and focused on his daughter and how animated she looked talking to Bess. The girl never appeared this happy before now and he was to blame. He never should have closed her out like he did…I won’t allow it to go on, I swear I won’t Amanda! The girl stopped walking and stood completely still as she looked over at her father, I can hear you Daddy. And I you, my darling, Amanda. Dan returned the smile taking over his daughter’s face. I promise, from now on, I will always hear you, always. Bess didn’t interfere with the two people that seemed to have stolen her heart. She smiled through her tears over Amanda’s happiness as the girl started a non-stop chatter with her father. Dan’s delight over the girl’s excitement brought out her own laughter. She told them both she was going in to start dinner, wanting to give them time together to explore their new communication skills. A little of the heaviness in her heart seemed to ease over Dan’s acceptance of Amanda. Bess spoke out in the silent house. “It is acceptance Danu’ell, whether you will admit it or not.” The child somehow stood firm 133
Spellfire Commemorative these last years and refused to give up her heritage in face of her father’s denial of his own. As Bess thought over her assumption, she began to wonder if Amanda might actually have her voice. Hearing the laughter outside made Bess’s smile widen. “Yes, I think you just might, my little Nymph.”
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Chapter Four Dan watched the moonlight begin to shine through the window, its iridescent rays seemed to move over Bess, outlining her beauty in a soft glow. His finger lightly traced the marvelous curve of her hip, careful not to wake her. A night of loving this wonderful woman stirred the fire in his blood and he knew what he must do. He forced himself to pull away from Bess as he eased off the bed. There was no need for clothes as he made his way through the darkened house to the outside. From the porch it looked as if the moonlight had gathered and pooled in one, glowing circle of light— waiting for him. As he walked out into the moonlight he could feel the warmth tingling his skin and he wondered how he could have turned away from its strength. It seemed to radiate down on him solely, for its rays widen like a glowing circle to encompass him. Standing in the center of light Danu’ell began speaking in his Elfen tongue, asking the Mother for forgiveness and guidance. How many minutes or hours he spoke of his pain and failure to respect the Elfen ways, Danu’ell couldn’t tell. He failed to notice whether it came slowly or with great force, but all around the creatures of the forest encircled him in the moon’s light. They seemed to enhance the chant with their own voices as if helping him to reach the Great Mother. The light became blindingly bright, but he refused to be swayed from his repentance…Suddenly he felt the Earth Mother’s presence. Your words have been a long time coming, Danu’ell. My heart cries to hear them, my warrior lord.. He fell silent and went to knees before her spirited form and surreal, earthy voice. “Mother…” Rise Danu’ell, there is no need to demean yourself before me, you have suffered deep and hard. My battles were fierce and you were, and are, one of my true warriors. 135
Spellfire Commemorative Danu’ell rose only to his knees before her. You have no cause to hold your head down in shame, my warrior. I wish I could take the pain from your heart into my own and heal you, Danu’ell. But alas, it is a burden you carry. Her hand reached out and traced the side of his face, he turned and kissed her palm, unashamed of the tears that fell down his cheeks. “I would fight for you again, Mother.” She forced his chin up and looked upon his face. It will be a fierce battle, my hero of many battles. The pain intense. “I won’t fail you—or myself.” Danu’ell basked in the smile she lauded over him. There is much sadness in this earth…treaties have been broken and trust destroyed. You will need many to help with this battle, Danu’ell. Danu’ell listened to all the Mother told him about the enemy destroying her creatures and earth. They spoke until the moon waned in the early morning sky. **** Bess busied herself with breakfast as she waited for Danu’ell to return. She could hear the excited beat of her heart. “All will be fine…” “Yes, it will, my beautiful Bess.” Danu’ell’s warm lips kissed the soft skin of her neck, enjoying how she leaned back into him, molding her body to his. He wrapped his arms around her to keep her in place, never wanting to release her. She wanted to know how he felt, but knew he would tell her when he was ready. Her heart sang over the loss of pain in his face. As if it were a physical thing, Danu’ell appeared to have finally healed in some part. Amanda’s laughter broke the two of them apart. “I’m hungry.” They both spun about at the sound of her voice. The girl’s smile spoke for her as her father dropped to his knees before her and gathered her to him. “Dear Amanda, you found your voice.” “Daddy, I’m not sure I lost it. I think it found me.” Bess’ happiness glowed for the two of them. She believed the Mother healed both Whistlers last night.
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Spellfire Commemorative Their breakfast became a loud affair, especially since Zachariah came to visit them that morning, joining in their blessings. Bess had to drag Amanda from the table to get the child ready for school. She came back after seeing the girl off at the bus to find the men in deep conversation. Bess didn’t say much as the two men spoke of the problems and the battle ahead of them. Though the evil didn’t have a name, the Mother told Danu’ell that it came from beneath Spellfire, breaking a long standing truce. It also became clear that Danu’ell would need the help of many residents in Spellfire to battle the evil. The Mother instructed him to call on some powerful magic to help cleanse the land. Bess tried hard not to worry, but she didn’t like the danger they would be facing and soon. **** Danu’ell didn’t have to look far to find Bess. He walked through the meadow to the boulder she was sitting upon. She smiled at him as he climbed up to sit beside her. “You didn’t have to leave, Bess.” “I know Danu’ell, I just couldn’t listen any longer.” His arm came around her shoulders, gently moving her into the comfort of his body, which she gladly leaned against. Bess wondered how she ever survived without his support before now. “It won’t be easy taking this land back from them.” He didn’t like to frighten her, but she needed to realize what they would be facing. They, he thought of how, in such a short span of time, this woman became as integral to him as the air he breathed. Dan knew he didn’t want her to leave his side, ever. “Wool gathering?” He looked down into her smiling face. “Yes, guess I was. So much has changed, Bess.” She turned away before he could make out the look that came over her face. “Hmm, I agree, many changes.” Before Dan could blink, Bess was off the boulder and running back towards the house. “Bess!” When she didn’t even slow down, he bolted off the boulder after her, fearing the reason for her odd behavior. “Wait up Bess!” His call only made her run faster and Dan felt that if he didn’t catch her, he could lose her forever. Once he tackled her, they rolled 137
Spellfire Commemorative over and over down the slope until they finally stopped with him on top of her. They were both out of breath and he could feel her breasts pushing against his chest. “Are you alright?” She didn’t drop her gaze from his as she slowly nodded. “Then what the black-swamp was that about? Why were you running…from me?” He realized he was yelling by the way her eyes watered with each harsh word he uttered. “I’m sorry Bess, but you need to tell me what’s wrong.” She shook her head, “No, no I don’t.” The words she spoke were forced out between heavy breaths. “I wasn’t running from you.” “Could have fooled me.” He watched her close her eyes and he held his breath, not sure what to expect, not sure what brought on this change in her. Bess looked up at him and felt her heart break. He was once again the fierce Elfen warrior and she instinctively knew he didn’t need her any longer. “I need to get back to the nursery.” He wanted to yell at her, shake her until she told him the real reason she just closed herself off from him. She wanted to cry when he pushed off of her and stood up. As she moved to rise he didn’t offer to help her and Bess could sense his rage. “I’ve been gone…” “You are certainly gone now, Bess. Go back to the nursery and hide in your plants.” He watched her bite her lip at his cutting words, but Dan was too angry to stop. “We have the answers. You did what you came here to do, so go!” She wanted to fade into the ground and disappear, but refused to let him see how much he hurt her. Fears that he no longer needed her proved true with each new outburst. Bess gathered her pride and turned away from Danu’ell, walking towards the forest and the creek that would take her back to her chestnut tree. It took all her efforts not to turn back when she heard his rough curse at her parting back. Once she reached the cover of the trees she allowed her Nymph blood to rule and within seconds she blended into the foliage as she watched him stomp back to the house. “I won’t be far, my Elfen warrior.” She looked around at the Mother’s creatures, speaking to them. “Watch them close, my friends.” 138
Spellfire Commemorative Bess didn’t look back as she walked to the creek, brushing away the tears she always knew loving Danu’ell would bring. The battles soon to come would bring them back in contact and Bess knew she must find a way to protect her heart from the man that held it. “Our song is forever…” Temporarily, The End
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Shadows & Darkness Mae Powers In the darkness of time, shadows of the past, present and future meld into a realm Maejika Maelstromm might not be able to escape from.
www.maepowers.com
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Shadows & Darkness Mae Powers
Chapter One For eons it simmered below in the darkness, its shadows of power spilling into everything it touched. It came to find the one, the one to whom it belonged. The one that belonged to…him. Closed for centuries in a living ball of energy from birth, it waited for the life of the other, the one he would know inherently, to bring him to full life. His life-shell, formed of the stars and the mysteries and magic of the cosmos, brought him here, to the depths below a place called Spellfire. A voice, from some distant past or future woke his energies, making him churn for needful things. Things he could not identify with, at first. But he soon learned what they were, and learned quickly. He listened to what went on around him as he lay brooding in the darkness. Sparks of light and shadow oozed from his depths, creating little living things, creatures with no thought at first, and then they too learned. And they became free of his control. Darkness and light. Shadows and life. He was made of all these things, yet he could not be complete without her. So he listened to the life around him from the cavern’s dark depths. The Earth energies sang their songs and he heard their meanings. Some knew he was there, but were afraid to tell others. Some kept away from him; others helped to nourish his needs. The needs of mind and soul. 141
Spellfire Commemorative Soon he developed one. Developed a new conscious. And felt life beckoning to him though he could not escape the shell of his beginnings. Not until he found her. At least not completely. He’d found ways from learning through the minds of others. Some called him a devil, others called him a beneficial god of sorts. The natives both of the earth and of the magical sort could not look upon him without going mad or evil. Yet, he did not worry about them. He kept to himself, mostly dealing with those that bothered him in some way. He did not want to surface out of the darkened and fiery domain of fire and shadows, the comforting earth. He knew she would find him there in the deepest cores of the caverns below Spellfire. She would come soon. And he would know life… **** Maejika Maelstromm glanced deeply into the flowing, oblong device. All her physical and mental senses tingled with extra awareness as she reached both hands softly around the timescope and ever so gently stroked its shiny metallic shaft up and down rhythmically. Behind her, the mesmerized reporter watched in awe. Maejika felt the younger woman’s fascination with all that was going on. Comfortable with the security spell around her office, Maejika finished stroking the timescope and released. It radiated erratically as it shot off small sparkles when it hummed and then released its magic into the air around them. Soon it glowed in large circular motions, the elliptical neons nearly encompassing the room. “What’s happening, Maejika?” She glanced over her left shoulder at Sianna, her lips curving upwards slightly. “We are about to take a side-view journey into time, Sianna.” “Oh my.” “You were not prepared totally, I see. Didn’t the Dead Librarians’ Society tell you anything about the timescope?” Sianna Connelly shook her dark red curls, her blue eyes focusing on what Maejika did. “Not really. Only that, if I could get your assistance in helping them locate this missing piece of Spellfire history, I could join them when the time comes for me to pass on.” 142
Spellfire Commemorative Maejika felt her heart lurch for a moment. Sianna was a young witch, but her disorderly powers were eating at her soul and she didn’t have long to live from what Electra and the witch doctors told Maejika. Sianna had a brilliant mind and loved reporting about history and things that went on around Spellfire. She’d been working with Maejika for several months now, coming over from the New York Mystic Press to spend her last months of living around her only half living relative, Professor Spookman, head of the Dead Librarians’ Society here in Spellfire. “I wish there was more I could do for you, my girl.” “Not to worry, Maejika. You’ve been a great friend to me. No one can help with what will happen to me. All of you have been great, joining my uncle and his crazy cohorts will give me a hold on some kind of life. I love being with the group a lot more than some living entities. Present company and friends I’ve met in Spellfire have made me want to live more again. But I’m content with my lot and have made my peace. Please don’t stress over what cannot be.” “You’re a strong, wonderful woman, Sianna. I’m proud to know you and call you friend. Are you sure you are up to this?” “Yes, more than anything. I would like to see how the ancient magic in Spellfire flourished in this town.” “The town is a hodgepodge for magical beings and more. I’m sure you’re questions will be answered. Come, we both have things we want to find out.” She held her hand out to the girl. “Remember, do not touch anything if it appears too real.” Sianna took Maejika’s hand. “No problems there.” A rounded, shimmering center in the glowing void enlarged, opening for them to enter. Hand in hand, they stepped through the magical door of the timescope. **** Under the protection of sublime dark-magic, Frieda watched with Sianna’s eyes, the “knowing” incantations Maejika used on the timescope. The tall woman went through several movements, her dark auburn hair swaying with each graceful sway Maejika made. Frieda never liked Maejika, but respected what the woman was capable of. Though a very powerful witch, Frieda knew Maejika didn’t have the ability to sub shift into another’s body. It took a witch with powers near to that of a high-level sorceress to be able to slip into another’s body without being detected. There were only three people 143
Spellfire Commemorative in Spellfire, besides herself, that she knew of who possessed such powerful magic. And those other three were out of town for the day. She’d made sure of that. Of course, only two of those could tell if another magical being spiritually possessed a person or magical being. Synkor and Damien Spellfire had the ability, but only Damian and his twin sister, Electra Spellfire could know when another’s body was silently being inhabited. Even the possessed person acted normal and didn’t realize they were being used like a carrier vessel. Frieda contained her enthusiasm that her ploy worked exquisitely, so far. Damien could tell things like that, but not as well as Electra could. Frieda couldn’t wait to get even with the sorceress. The women of the Spellfire lineage were always sorceresses, especially the first-born daughter. Some gene gave them not only supernatural, but also psychic gifts as well. She loathed the Spellfire family, and especially Electra Spellfire. The damn woman had been a thorn in her side for a long time now. Particularly when Mikhail had seen Electra and wanted Electra instead of her. It didn’t matter her own husband ran off, but it infuriated Frieda that somehow Electra had been involved in Perry’s wife being the one her husband ran off with. Just another notch of aggravation Electra caused her over the course of years. Now she’d have the start of a complete revenge on Electra, and perhaps all of Spellfire, Texas. Gleefully, she knew there were still those that were not only afraid of her powers of magic and influence, but also she had estranged allies. They would gladly aid her in the quest for final domination and control of this town and its secrets. Some, of which held the keys to Electra’s powers. Frieda intended to watch with pride and pleasure as the steps she put in today would soon cause the downfall of Electra Spellfire and others who stood in her way.
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Chapter Two Maejika rarely dismissed it when she felt something wasn’t feeling right, but as they stepped over into the time domain, she glanced at Sianna for the briefest of split seconds. The woman smiled trustingly at her and the uneasiness slipped away from Maejika like a dark cloud drifting away. She let out a sigh of relief. Sianna was trustworthy; Maejika knew her instincts were never wrong where people were concerned. The remote dial rested safely in her pocket, she felt less anxious, especially when the time door of history closed behind them. The mystifying lights soon dissolved and the two stood on soft, solid ground getting their bearings. The town of Spellfire looked a little older. Some of its decades-old buildings looked newer and more modern buildings hadn’t been finished yet. Maejika grinned at the awe she saw on Sianna’s face. Long ago, when Electra’s grandmother, Maejika’s godmother, took Maejika on her first trip in time, Maejika felt the same mystifying bewilderment that Sianna seemed to feel right now. She allowed the history reporter a few moments to take in the view of it all and to assimilate her thoughts. “It is lovely and yet quaint. This is such a different side of Spellfire. Even the old Clock tower looks like it’s working correctly.” “It always has and always will, Sianna. Come now, and let me show you this special part of history as it happened. Sianna looked first one way then the other, Maejika noticed as they walked the main street of Spellfire from the Spawn’s offices 145
Spellfire Commemorative toward the center circle of town. Although slips of people passed them, none seemed to notice them. No one really bothered them physically or said “hi” to them. “We really are like ghosts. That man seems a bit faded to me and yet everything is also vivid to me, Maejika.” “There exist two parallels here, Sianna. Time as it is happening and time as it will happen. We are walking in the same time era as these people, but are not really part of their time. It’s like an overlay of one picture on top of the other. Both are the same, yet one is slightly more transparent than the other.” “So we see what goes on around us, can even smell and breathe it all in, but time flows here differently than for the two of us.” “Exactly. Come, we are almost at Sinful Sundaes.” They walked into Sins semi-crowded parlor. Most people were dressed in outfits from a few decades passed, but Maejika knew Sianna liked the era between the late 1960s and early 1970s. She believed too, that this was the right period in which the two of them needed to get the missing history data necessary for Sianna to complete her report for the Dead Librarian’s Society. Since most dead people couldn’t go back in time, Maejika was glad to help Sianna and their friends from the DLS. She started to lead Sianna pass the main counter when a tingling sensation hit her, followed by a shrill voice. Both she and Sianna turned at the same time to see the uproar that suddenly happened in the ice cream parlor. “Electra, stop dancing those plates in the air! Damien, don’t you encourage her now. Sheesh, what am I going to do with you two?” Maejika couldn’t believe her eyes as she saw a set of six-year-old twins crackling magic in the midst of the diner. People watched in awe as the two twirled around with china plates in the middle of the air. Two ebony haired children giggled mischievously and said in unison, “No.” Maejika felt a hand pulling on her sleeve. She looked down at the shorter woman. Sianna’s brown eyes were wide in disbelief. “That’s Electra and Damien Spellfire, but I thought…” “Some magical children age slower than others, Sianna. Especially after a horrendous event in their young lives. Their parents disappeared during this time.” 146
Spellfire Commemorative “So all the Spellfire kids aged slow because of that event?” She seemed contrite. “Maybe I shouldn’t have agreed to help the Society do this. It’s Electra and her kin’s private affair…” She patted the woman’s hand. “No, I think you need to know. I too have reasons to find out the truth. Somehow, it’s connected with your quest. I don’t know how I feel this, I just know it is. Come, let’s go downstairs.” Sianna followed Maejika around the counter and into the backrooms of Sinful Sundaes. An open doorway led down some stairs, into what Maejika knew to be the basement and storeroom of the Spellfire family. They followed the stairs downwards until it opened into a large room filled with stacked and shelved boxes, and odd-shaped containers. Maejika glanced around until she saw another doorway slightly hidden by two protruding shelves. “This way, Sianna.” “I’ve never seen such a huge basement before.” “I don’t think all houses or businesses have them in Texas, but then Spellfire is different. Come, we only have a few hours to find what you need before the portal opens back up into our time era.” “What’s behind that door, Maejika?” “Don’t be worried, you’ll be safe. It leads to the fairy realm below the town. Well not directly into the fairy caverns, but close to them.” “How can we move about okay and not touch things at the same time?” Maejika looked at the door and it opened of its own accord. She chuckled at Sianna’s bewilderment. “Some majics work fine in time. Simple ones like opening doors with the mind or a flick of the wrist, doesn’t really alter timelines.” “I’m a bit anxious, but I do want to find out what transpired to make this town so protected. I would have thought it was before now.” Maejika glance back as she pulled a flashlight out of her pocket. She stopped for a second in the half-lit entry. “Yes, some of what you seek did happen before now, but something very pertinent to Spellfire’s existence happened during this time frame.” “You know what happened then?” “Not completely. I just know some of what happened. I’ll tell you about it another day. Come on.” 147
Spellfire Commemorative Sianna smiled and followed her through some dark caverns, while she led the way with the flashlight on high beam. Maejika knew it best not to use most of her magic, though some was necessary for their protection. So a flashlight, with a magical battery in it, helped their plight. She sucked in her bottom lip and tread forward, hoping indeed, that she did get the time frame correct. **** It, he, could feel her near. Yet something wasn’t right. He’d waited over a century of Earth time for her, growing daily, but too slow for his peace of alien mind. So long he’d traveled and so long he waited for his true existence to begin. He knew, because of his restless energy running rampant, he’d unleashed them. The creatures of shadow and darkness. Some he could control, others he could not. Yet they still feared him and left him alone here in this cavern, his prison. A few kept tabs on what went on around and above him. Sometimes they would give him reports of the lineage, by sending him images. Yet always, it wasn’t her. Not the soul to bind his with. Still, he would wait, because that’s all he could do for now, wait and watch for her coming. Be patient until the right moment when he could claim her for himself. She would have no choice, because the fates meant this to be.
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Chapter Three “Long ago,” Maejika explained to Sianna as they journeyed through several cavern tunnels that kept going downwards and getting steeper and steeper, “the native tribes around here saw a ball of fire bury itself below these caverns. Later on nature grew over the hole and made it unseen from above. Some of these caverns were made from its cosmic power, while shifts in geophysical nature made the others.” “I realize that, Maejika,” Sianna answered softly, trying to keep up with Maejika’s longer strides, “but the Fae have been down here for centuries and some of their tunnels lead to other parts of the world. I’ve heard the tale even from the other side of the world, and that was one of the events that led to Spellfire residents moving here, besides avoiding persecution by religious fanatics. You sound like you’ve been down here before.” “I have.” “You know Electra better than anyone else, and probably more of this town’s history than the Society even. What are you not telling me, and why did we have to make a trip in time to find out?” Maejika’s sudden stopping nearly made Sianna topple over. She almost shivered under the woman’s powerful stare, but the witch’s eyes lightened with a sudden hypnotic calming, softness that put Sianna at ease. “There are some things I don’t know, Sianna. I’ve made a few trips back in time, but some instances were wiped from my memory,” she took a deep breath. “This time though, I took precautions.” 149
Spellfire Commemorative “That’s actually comforting.” Sianna grinned. “How much further?” Maejika glanced around, then ahead of them. “Just a little ways down this tunnel if my sensing-recall holds true to nature. Let’s continue.” Sianna quietly followed the older woman down the twisting, rocky corridor. All the while they were traveling; her witch senses tingled with troubling sensations. She knew and relied on the fact that Maejika’s experience and talents could get them out of any trouble that might come their way. Yet, if tales of what the Librarians told her from their familiarity with this era was true, she knew hers and Maejika’s being here might have repercussions if they were not careful. A lot of people in the town knew about the dark beings that resided here not far from the Faelands, but even the natives told of a powerful entity that lay lost in the darkest bowls of these abnormal caverns below Spellfire. An unusual being that was neither alive nor dead. Yet, folk tales around the country side said it cause havoc within many magical realms. Evil, darkness and shadows crept from its essence. The Indian Fae called it a “core of life”, as close as Sianna could recall the translation. Just the harsh name gave her the willies. Yet that was all most people, even the ghostly Librarians, knew about the ancient legends of the dark and shadowy creature, said to have come long ago from the mysterious depths of the cosmos. Its power seeped into nature itself, so much that even the Great Mother, the goddess-mother of the Elven warrior lords shivered when it touched the lands around Spellfire. Her nymph friend Bess told her about some of the farm lands around town going bad, that nothing would grow on them. Even Terri, a dispatcher from the Spellfire Sheriff's department said the eerie darkness even made the shadowy beings known as the Grollim want to take a chill-pill. And those unsubstantial beings, though both good and evil, were known not to be afraid of anything. Some said there was a connection with this ancient being of good and evil and the Gremlorr family. Gremlorr, she recalled, was the surname of Electra Spellfire’s ex-husband Mikhail. He’d once tried to take over Spellfire a few years ago, well back in the late 1990s; and Electra, Maejika and other powerful, magically inclined beings had 150
Spellfire Commemorative supposedly blasted him off the face of the Earth. Yet, no one knew for certain if that being and Mikhail Gremlorr really were connected somehow. There were too many factors involved. The one thing the Society asked her to do was get the reason why the shift in power around Spellfire started. There had been a large earth quake within Spellfire’s boundaries that had given the evil or not so nice Spellfirians more control in the town’s government. Though they hadn’t made a move to take over Spellfire again, the Librarians feared it could happen. They figured if they knew what started it, then they could make a report to the Witches’ Council and other paranormal councils who wanted to keep the balance on the good side of all magickind. She loved reporting history and especially any paranormal occurrences ever since she was a teenager. She’d come to live in Spellfire after a fire claimed her parents lives, and Uncle Spookman finished raising her. She loved the old spirited geezer and his ghostly cohorts. She moved to New York for a short period to work at the New York Mystic Press, but home beckoned. She never regretted coming back here. Now her quest lay in finding out what caused that quake and the start of power shifting now causing trouble in Spellfire. Many believed it would happen again, but that it could also be prevented if they only knew how it started. Every physical trace of it, except what had been handed down over the years verbally, seemed to have disappeared. The mystery enthralled her. She knew very few in Spellfire knew about this period, except the Society, Maejika Maelstrom, and Electra Spellfire. Maejika and Electra, she realized were friends for many years, but Sianna had the feeling that there were some things Electra kept from her best friend. Though most knew Electra’s beginnings, her uncle said that the sorceress kept many secrets. Most people adored Electra, but it was touted she could have a temper at times. The small quake that hit Sins earlier this year was a rumble of physical and magical energy. She’d learned through the town gossipvine, that it was due to an amorous argument that Alex and Electra had one night. The event never repeated, due to most believing that Alex was Electra’s soothing balm of light. She’d seen them together and thought they were perfect for each other. Love glowed in sparks 151
Spellfire Commemorative when the two were together. She sighed for a second, but didn’t feel pity. With her physical life coming to an end soon, she knew love was not in the realms of existence for her. So her work and fascination for paranormal history became her first love, which lay in one of the main reasons for her being here now with Maejika. Maejika came to a sudden stop again. Sianna looked toward where the witch pointed. So deep in thought, Sianna failed to realize they arrived so soon. A cavernous opening, containing an eerie, reddish-orange glow, lay ahead of them. Her inner senses warned her that danger was near. She looked up at Maejika. “This is the place you believe this unknown source of power comes from?” “My senses are not usually wrong, Sianna. It lies within that chamber. We’ll find our answers there.” “Maejika, why didn’t you ask Electra to come with us or tell us? She knows a lot about this town’s secrets, doesn’t she?” Sianna thought the woman might avert the issue, but was glad she didn’t. “Electra has a lot on her mind these days, and felt it best that you and I came alone. I’ve been here before, Sianna. Like I told you before though, some pieces of that time are missing from my memory. I think I know why, but I wanted to confirm it for my own reasons.” “I can respect that. Do you think it’s safe to enter there.” “No, it’s not safe there.” She and Maejika turned suddenly as they heard the small voice coming out from the darkness around them. A small child, a girl, no more than maybe six or seven, Sianna thought, stood before them. She recognized the dark haired child from the ice cream parlor. It was Electra Spellfire.
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Chapter Four Maejika started to move towards the little girl. She stopped as the child pointed towards the glowing opening. “It doesn’t want you here.” “You shouldn’t be here either, Electra.” “How is it she can speak to us and see us, Maejika?” Sianna asked. “Because I told me to. Go back, Maejika. Electra will tell you and show you.” After those cryptic words, the young image of Electra turned to leave. “Wait, we need to know what has happened here.” Maejika and Sianna both said one after the other. Young Electra shook her head. “I can’t tell you, but she can.” Maejika looked deeply into the child’s eyes and soul. “She stopped you didn’t she?” The girl shrugged and nodded. “Yes and no. I’ve been before, in here, I think. Then I came and stopped me.” “Electra came back in time here, she means?” Sianna asked. “Yes, I believe so.” Maejika looked from the two females back to the cavern opening. “It’s beckoning to me, Electra. I can sense the frustration in there. You must tell me what happened.” A deathly silence fell upon the cavern. Maejika turned quickly at a sudden gasp coming from Sianna. Electra and Sianna were no longer in the room. Then she felt its presence within the cavern. It was coming for her. **** He knew they stood out there. Knew that she was close by. Yet, she warned herself. His anger grew and his cell tightened about him. 153
Spellfire Commemorative She would fight him, his essence. Her powers had grown more than he realized. The first time, as a child she’d barely escaped him. He awoke to this realization this very moment. Then she’d interfered. But with her coming, he became more aware of her. And he knew now what he must do to make her his. Within the mind of her bewildered friend he found the answers. He let the knowledge of what was, and what he wanted seep into her mind. She would carry back with her all the fear he could cause, especially to Electra Spellfire. He would use others to gain what he wanted. And what he wanted lay in the future. In Maejika’s present, his energies flowed. He could nip at her life essence. It would harm Electra, but it would also bring her closer to him. Life-Core reached out. **** Maejika felt it coming towards her. The sparks of the eerie glow flew out like slow moving fireflies. It, no he, meant to harm her. She felt frozen, felt her powers suddenly become useless. Then the ground beneath her shook fiercely. Her body wobbled, but she didn’t fall. Another sparkling glow of light entered the cavern room. Its coruscating brilliance nearly blinded her, but she could see that the red-orange glow from the rocky opening still itself. Then the silver-gold glow quickly encompassed her and everything around her disappeared in a brilliant show of bursting energies. Maejika trembled as her feet and then the rest of her landed hard on something solid. She shook with the intensity of what just happened to her as she took in what appeared to be her office back in Spellfire, just as she’d left it before going back in time with Sianna. Sianna! Oh hell what had happened back there? Where was Sianna? At a groan nearby, she saw Sianna’s small form laying on the old beat up office sofa. A movement nearby made her turn around. Electra stood nearby, holding onto Maejika’s desk for support. Once she realized her body wasn’t frozen any more, she rushed to Electra’s side. “You shouldn’t have gone there, Maejika.”
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Spellfire Commemorative “You shouldn’t have tried to protect me by erasing my memory of being there before.” She put an arm under Electra for support. “You tax yourself too much. And our friendship.” Electra turned to look at her. Both were near the same height and build. “And miss that look on your face when I rescued you again. Naw.” Electra grinned suddenly. “Look who’s talking about taxing a friendship. You almost allowed Sianna to reach out and touch me back then. That would have changed the future.” “You changed it rescuing us didn’t’ you?” “I’m not sure, Maejika. But I didn’t keep Life-Core from taking me over back then. It’s angry.” “You need to talk to Alex, before New Year’s Eve. He needs to know.” Electra pulled from her support and sat on the edge of the desk. She glance from her to Sianna and then back at Maejika. She knew something was amiss with her friend. It was time Electra quit holding back so many secrets. “What is it you wish to know, Maejika?” Occasionally, Electra’s mind startled her. “Tell me in my mind, Electra. And don’t try to erase it again to protect me.” “I will, shortly. Let me regain some strength. Time traveling takes a toll on my powers.” “Will she be all right?” Maejika nodded towards Sianna. “And you? Or you back then?” “Why do you think I’m less temperamental now, my friend?” “You mentally shooed yourself away? You amaze me, girl. So that’s why you started obeying your Uncle Zathan more as you got older. You threatened to take your own powers away if you didn’t’ obey him and stay away from the cavern.” “Something like that.” Electra chuckled. She turned to look upon Sianna. “She could sense the energy. Tell her what you need to. It will come to you, filtered from my memories into yours.” “The Society only needs to know why the balance shifted. Why the quake happened.” Electra sighed, glancing back at Maejika. She stared hard into her friend’s glowing eyes and memories flashed erratically into Maejika’s mind. Electra didn’t hold any secrets back from her. Maejika shivered with awe and resignation, but was glad Electra shared her troubles with her. 155
Spellfire Commemorative “You can’t see into your own future, Electra, others maybe, but not always your own. We had best be prepared.” Electra nodded and shrugged. “I don’t think we ever can be. Things might happen, they might not, no matter how much we try to prevent things from happening.” She reached up and stroked her friend’s cheek. “You know you can count on me, and Alex. Talk to him. Promise me you will.” Before Electra answered her another groan made them turn their attention towards Sianna who groggily sat up on the sofa. “What happened. Oh, Electra, you’re grown now.” Electra chuckled. “Yes, child I am. Have been for awhile.” “But you were a kid back…we did go back in time didn’t we, Maejika?” “Yes,” Maejika answered. “And we found out what we wanted to know. I’ll fill you in as soon as you get more coherent. In the meantime, Electra, I think you have things to do. I know what to do here, my friend.” Electra Spellfire bent over and kissed her friend’s cheek. “I believe you do have a handle on things. Thanks, Maejika.” Then the woman disappeared out of the room. Maejika turned back to the still bewildered Sianna. Smiling warmly, she moved over to sit next to the younger woman. It wouldn’t be a lie she told Sianna, but an altered version of what really happened. In a quest for things of the past, Maejika knew that somehow the present and the near future itself, might very well have been altered in Spellfire. She hoped what she feared, didn’t come to pass. **** Frieda had kept her self immobile in all ways once she’d felt Electra’s presence and that of Life-Core nearby. Now she knew where to look for it. Something Electra and Maejika kept well-hidden from others in the town. When it glowed and reached out for them, some how its essence prevented either of the Electras from detecting her presence. Perhaps it had its own reasons for doing so. Whatever the case, she’d slipped her spirit-self out of Sianna’s body the moment she realized they were back in the present; with Electra or Maejika none the wiser. She’d found out what she wanted to know. Now she could build upon her plans. Her fascination however, for the strange entity, grew. 156
Spellfire Commemorative She needed to know more about it and its secrets. Secrets tied to Electra Spellfire. She sensed its powers, its uncanny energies. She wanted them for herself. In time, Frieda snickered silently, she would have what she wanted. And she’d have the power, the magic, to bring all of Spellfire to its knees. --------------------Don’t miss more to come in A Spellfire Evening – things are changing in Spellfire.
The End, for now
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Moonshyne's Treasure Hunt Jewel Adams In the Summer of 2006, Midnight Showcase enjoyed a “Beach Party Gathering” of Readers in the Midnight Social Yahoo Groups. Jewel Adams brought fun contests to the readers, like Treasure Hunts. She wrote a treasure hunt story just for this party, involving her darling character, Moonshyne. On the original web page, we posted some adorable graphics and a large beach theme. Although we can’t include the graphics, we thought the readers would enjoy the little glimpse into the scattered life of a pregnant Moon Faery.
www.jeweladams.midnightshowcase.com www.jeweladams.blogspirit.com
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Moonshyne's Treasure Hunt by Jewel Adams
“Oh my goodness!” Shyne rubbed her scrapped knee after falling into a sand dune and brushed off the sand as she righted herself. Her hand went soothingly over her bulging stomach. “At least you are safe my sweet boy.” She certainly hoped all this confusion and clumsiness, she existed in since she became pregnant, would disappear once their son is born. She never should have come along on the beach outing, but she had an unbearable craving for starfish. It has been so hot in Spellfire that the beach sounded like such a treat. Opening the magical beach bag that Lillia conjured up for her trip. Shyne sighed, then smiled down at her belly, it seemed she couldn’t leave the house without bringing everything and anything with her. “It is useless to fight it.” She reached into the bag and felt around inside for the Demvir teething ring Malaci’s mother sent them. “Oh dear, it must have fallen out!” Dropping back down, she buried her hands in the sand trying to find the priceless ring. Biting back her alarm, “It will be fine, I’ll just find Electra and she’ll use some spell or something to find it.” taking a deep breath she awkwardly pushed herself upright. “Yes, it will all be fine…” but as she looked around at the dim skyline she couldn’t help groaning. “It can’t be that late.” Her gaze rose to the darkening horizon and she wished the moon would rise, it was the only thing that cleared her thinking. Busy trying to find the teething ring Shyne gasped over the force of the wind suddenly striking her. Before she knew what was happening the wind picked her up and tossed her into the whirling tunnel. “So help me Derek, if this is you put me down right this instant!” Her brother-in-law was such a prankster. “Darn it Derek…please be you!” 159
Spellfire Commemorative The lack of any answer gave Shyne her answer as she watched all the items flying out of the beach bag and scatter wherever the wind blew them. Her scream flew into the whirling wind as she slowly spun down the tunnel and landed on some soft daisies. “Well!” she huffed out between gasping for breaths as she sat there, her legs spread out and her arms bracing her up. She shook her head to clear it of the dizziness, she could feel her twisted wings and tried to straighten them out, but it was useless. “Malaci where are you? Of all the weekends to go to a conference, I need you here…with us.” She brush the hair out of her eyes and fought down the lump in her throat, her emotions were already so out of control that crying wouldn’t help, but she did wish he was there. “Your father better not leave us again until you get here, Silas, yes I do like that name, Silas.” The baby’s answering kick made her laugh, “Silas it is.” Shyne looked up and watched the whirlwind in the distance. Things were flying out all over the place from her bag and she wondered how she would ever get them all back. When she took stock of her own location she realized that she wasn’t anywhere close to the beach. The wind must have taken her inland, how far or where she couldn’t even guess. “Oh dear, my rings! I can’t loose them.” Her fingers were so swollen she couldn’t wear them. She remembered how she cried when Malaci helped her get them off, she was so worried it might curse their marriage or something. Malaci, the love of her life, told her not to worry, rings didn’t effect their love. “He’s so romantic,” she sighed. “I’ll find them Silas and your teething ring.” She managed to straighten up and was surprised to see her empty beach bag laying just a few feet from her. “Well it’s a start.” Shyne took a quick look about the night sky but failed to find her moon. Her wings itched and hurt from the battering they took, she couldn’t wait for the moonbeams healing rays, she certainly couldn’t fly like this. “Oh look, there are your moccasins Silas. As Harpy said all good Texas babies need these.” She brushed them off and stuffed them into the beach bag. “Ouch!” She couldn’t reach her toe, but she managed to see what she stubbed it on. “Poison, yuck, who would leave something like that laying around.” Shyne gave the old can a wide berth. 160
Spellfire Commemorative The sound of rushing water drew her on. The silver river looked beautiful at night and inviting. Thoughts of the beach she didn’t get to enjoy made her decision and Shyne made her way to the bank and sank down, putting her feet in the water. “Ahh, that feels good Silas.” She ran her hands over her stomach as she talked to her son. A noise on the other side of the caught her attention, “Wow, I wish you could see this.” Shyne watch the stallion take a deep drink, watching her as he did. After he left she decided she better get moving as well. But before she could leave another noise in the water made her turn to see the large fin slide under the water, “Mermaid,” as the large figure rose out of the water, “oh sorry, merman.” He smiled and waved to her, pointing for her to go in a westerly direction. “Thank you, I do need to get home.” She almost wished she had time to take a swim with him, but what she really needed was a luxurious bubble bath. One desire left her wanting another, “I sure am hungry.” Visions of sweets made her mouth water and she wondered how long it would be before she found her way back to the beach or someone found her. A thick mist began to gather in front of her and Shyne smiled. “Well what do you know. I must be headed in the right direction.” The faery mist was a welcoming sight for Shyne as she stepped through the shroud. To her right she spotted a graveyard and some inhabitants flying about. Something up ahead caught her attention. As she drew closer she smiled and looked around, “Teague? Are you near?” She couldn’t believe the leprechaun would leave his treasure unattended. The temptation to put the chest in her bag increased with each step, but Shyne knew what kind of trouble she could bring upon herself and her loved ones, so she forced herself to keep walking. As she left the gold’s sight she could hear the little devil’s laughter. “I thought so.” Her laughter joined his as she made her way through the enchanted gardens now bathed in soft music. To her surprise, she found items that had flown out of her bag. “Oh yes, my necklace.” she opened the locket to see Malaci’s picture and sighed, she missed him so much. “Oh look here my decorations for the party. At least the dragon isn’t busted up.” As she carefully placed the statue in the bag Shyne noticed a bottle under a bush. Getting down as best she could she managed to reach it, “Oh yes! Malaci would be so disappointed if 161
Spellfire Commemorative I lost this, of course I’d cry.” She could almost feel his large, strong hands moving the oil over her wings… “Yes, well, can’t go there right now, can we Silas.” Her laughter rang out, but she made a promise to herself that Malaci would massage her wings for her tonight. “Guess we better get moving and make it home if that is going to happen.” She gazed at the western horizon and felt herself relax at the seeing the moon starting its rise. Her wings twitched with need. A soft ‘meow’ drew her thoughts back to her present location. “A kitty. Goodness are you lost as well? If you want to follow me, maybe we will find our way home.” In answer the kitten walked back and forth over what looked like a note book. “Goodness, aren’t you a smart cat, thank you for finding my love notes.” Shyne blushed remembering the last story she was working on in Malaci’s absence. “Maybe I’ll take it out and read it to him.” She thought as she dropped it into the bag, her sexual fantasies were certainly more vivid since she became pregnant. Thankfully, the bag didn’t get any heavier with each item she found, it seemed to her that the items were leading her through the woods, she hoped it would take her home. Shyne came to a clearing and there hanging from a tree was the costume ball gown she bought to wear for the party next week at the Garnet Moons. It didn’t do much to hide her pregnancy, but it felt beautiful. She’d looked at these saloon-girl dresses and a genie outfit, but decided on something tamer, besides no one would mistake her identity. The moon finally rose above her and she stepped into the shower of healing moonbeams, her wings slowly spread open and began to shine. She felt the warmth returning to her body and opened her palms to the let the sparks light the night at her side. She sensed him then, watching her… Without moving her guarded gaze searched out the shadows, there, a movement in the brush. Her nose twitched and she smiled, “Malaci.” “Shyne! Finally, I’ve been searching everywhere, ever since I heard you calling for me.” She smiled and watched as he shape-shifted back to his handsome self. “I’ve been rather lost.” “Are you hurt?” His gaze raced over her, before coming back to her stomach where his hand went in a protective gesture. 162
Spellfire Commemorative “No, we are fine. It’s been an adventure and I needed to find all the things I lost in the whirlwind.” “Whirlwind!?” “Yes, well I did think it was Derek…” “I’ll kill him…” She silenced his anger with a soft kiss. “Shhh, it wasn’t him, just mother nature, no harm done.” He pulled her into his embrace, “I’ve been so worried Shyne.” His lips covered hers in relief, quickly turning ravaging as his hands moved lovingly over her back. Malaci broke the kiss under both their protests, “Shall we go home?” “I’d love to my husband. Besides, Silas is terribly hungry.” His gaze went to her swollen stomach and smiled, “Silas is he?” “Oh yes, he is quite insistent about his name being Silas.” “Then we won’t disappoint him, it is a good strong name for my son.” The End
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List of Spellfire Stories (From the first four books, in order of appearance)
SINFUL SUNDAES 1 Sundae Strawberry Veinilla & Vamperians by Mae Powers Electra Spellfire has a special Strawberry Veinilla Sundae that Vamperian chef Alexander Ruveaux can't help but want second helpings of it and of her. Mondae Mummies & Marshmallows by Jennifer Metz What do mummies; marshmallows and love have in common? Find out in this spellbinding paranormal romance short. Tuesdae Toppings & Temptations by Ann Regentin Gina falls hard for the handsome man who stops to help when her car breaks down near Spellfire, except he isn¹t really human at all! Wednesdae Witches & Walnuts by Anne Leland Marissa is failing Relationships Spells 101. To make matters worse, she's in love with her professor. What's a modern day gypsy witch to do? Thursdae Twilight Shadows & Just Desserts Katrina Marlowe Ella always suspected she'd go far in her quest to find true love; she just hadn't expected it would be in the afterlife. Fridae Fairies & Cherries by Leigh Ellwood How does a sexy Faerie exact justice from a lovely driver whose ice cream company is committing copyright infringement? One orgasm at a time! Saturdae Shifters & Hot Fudge byLeanne Strange Adam Spellfire, a demvir, and Tristine Havoc, a witch, always feuded. Yet Tris can't help but succumb to Adam's special hot fudge delights. 164
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SPELLFIRE SEASONS Elves, Bells, & Mistletoe, by Jennifer Metz What if Santa was real and he had a very attractive, very single son named Nikolas? Seductive Secrets Boutique owner Mandy Stockholm is about to find out as Spellfire is overrun with disgruntled elves on strike. Now the two must work together to get the elves back to the North Pole and save Christmas. Mistletoe & Mayhem, by Emery LaRue Garland Mayhem is not quite sure what to expect returning home to Spellfire, Texas. Visions of a beautiful woman call to him, and he feels her inside his heart. Once he lays eyes on her, he sees the true meaning of love, and learns just what he truly is. Eid al-Fitr, by Ann Regentin A Muslim couple Feisal and Salwa started out in love but became dishonest in an effort to protect each other from their “baser” impulses. Now they are haunted during the festival nights of Ramadan by two djinn, who fulfill the couple’s every unspoken and forbidden fantasy. Spirit's Bells, by Tamara James Running from an unsavory pack leader, werewolf and artist Spirit Tredmane seeks sanctuary in her cousin Electra's hometown of Spellfire. Gavin thought his dreams of finding his true-mate would never happen, until he bumps into Spirit, and his mind begins to dream of a home and pups of his own. A Statue For All Seasons, by Mae Powers For over a hundred years Georgiano McMillan’s spirit was cursed into a statue that stood in the middle of Spellfire Park, season after season. He hated Christmas and never thought his curse would ever be lifted, until the town librarian shed her inhibitions late one wintry night.
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SPELLFIRE HEARTS Drifting Desires, by Leanne Strange Harpy Collins's mistaken thoughts made her cautious of loving elemental sorcerer Derek Spellfire. With magical caresses, Derek's determined to give Harpy the love she craves. Heart Spells, by Mae Powers Jaleena Trinkets opens a book of love spells and is transported to a mystical place where a hunky gen-witch casts an alluring desire over her. Candy Kisses, by Emery LaRue Trevor Jackson finds in Spellfire a woman who puts his libido into overdrive–Candy Piper, a witch talented with candy making and lovecraft. Haunted Love, by Tamara James Ghost Zechariah Taylor is bewitched by his desires for sorceress Heather Landry. Will his ghostly loving be enough to mend her troubled heart? Tricks of Love , by Mae Powers When the town's most notoriously mischievous fairy, Shai, falls in love, Valentine's Day weekend in Spellfire sizzles with magically sensual mayhem.
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SPELLFIRE MOONS Moonshyne, Jewel Adams Being the last moonbeam faery in existence makes Shyne lonely, until she meets Sheriff Malachi Spellfire, a shape-shifting demvir, who fills her emptiness with passion. Trouble Brews, Mae Powers When Jeff and Marion Trinkets learn she's pregnant, they didn't expect troubled brews of an eerie kind to happen within Spellfire, Texas. The Grand Design, Melanie Gilbreath Artist Stephen McClintock has lost his inspiration. It's interior decorator and witch Amy Pettibone to the rescue to salvage his unharmonious habitat. Clothes Minded, Karen Rose When car trouble brings runaway bride Cosmina del Costa to Quantum Mechanics, will this fashion designer find love in the arms of an ancient warrior? In The Hot Zone, C. D. Reese Heaven and Hell collide when a sharpshooter falls for a half demon. Can this 'petite ange' aim true to win her lover's very soul back? High Chairs and High Stakes, Jenna Leigh When Erin MacKenzie meets Matthias Gregory, a vampire raising his daughter alone, the witch-nanny finds that she's bitten off more than she can chew.
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THE SPELLFIRE COMPENDIUM People, Places, Things, Creatures and all manners of magic and non-magic entities that walk the streets of Spellfire. We warned you…nothing's normal in this town, even the crooked politician's…
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List of Spellfire Residents An alphabetical list of all the town's residents, cross-referenced to friends, family, businesses, etc, along with the story, author and digest(s) that featured them. Some of the characters appear very frequently; in these cases, only the story that focuses on them as the central character is given. NB: special note is made of the due date of expectant mothers. •
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318 Also called ‘Trin’. Vamperian. The radio call sign for a night shift Sheriff’s deputy, a very old, cowboy hat wearing & strictly by the book deputy. Appeared in ‘The Grollim’ by Bridghid Parkinson, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Achlys A Greek dryad of an ancient olive whose tree was destroyed, she is now the Guardian of The Garden. Her physical form is disabled, as she lost the lower part of her left leg when her tree was cut down. She speaks Greek and English. Her partner is Demetrius. Appeared in ‘Fresh Fruit & Fate’ by Ann Regentin, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Al An Agloolik who left the Arctic in search of warmer climes, Al owns the Blue Ice Games Company. His partner is Gina, and he's friends with Roca. Appeared in 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Amanda Whistler Daughter of Dan Whistler, Amanda carries Nymph and Elfen blood, the heritages she is just beginning to explore with the help of her new friend Bess Green. Appeared in Nymph Gardens & Elfen Moons by Jewel Adams, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest (2006) Asad Male djinni, husband of Habibeh. Works for the Blue Ice Games Company in Spellfire. Appeared in 'Eid el-Fitr' by Ann Regentin in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Bobby Bedlam 169
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One of Tristine Havoc's ex-lovers, Bobby was turned into a brook for a time. Appeared in 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Gabe Blackwolf Alpha leader of Spellfire's local werewolf pack. Husband of Spirit Tredmane; brother of Jonathan. Appeared in 'Spirit's Bells' by Tamara James in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Jonathan Blackwolf Werewolf. Husband of Rebecca, father of Gideon (b.2005); brother of Gabe. Jonathan is a vegetarian and very bookish. Appeared in 'Spirit's Bells' by Tamara James in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Rebecca Blackwolf Werewolf. Wife of Jonathan and mother of Gideon (b. December 2005). Appeared in 'Spirit's Bells' by Tamara James in Spellfire Seasons. Laurance Boudreaux (now Lance and Rance) Cajun human from Louisiana made homeless by Hurricane Katrina. Upon eating a hexed dessert he split into two identical twins, Lance and Rance. His partner is Dina Diablo. Appeared in ‘Sprinkles & Hot Hunks’ by Leanne Strange, in in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Chissie Senior at Spellfire High School, a summer clerk at Trinkets. Chissie is the niece of Lillia West. Appeared in 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Moons (2006). Cindy Wife of Anton Spellfire. Appeared in ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Nickolas Claus Son of Santa Claus, sent to Spellfire by his father to negotiate with striking elves just before Christmas 2005. Husband of Mandy Stockholm. Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Harpy Collins Half-human (her father), half-harpy (her mother). Wife of Derek Spellfire. Friend and sister-in-law of Electra Spellfire. Also friends with Candy Piper; Jaleena Trinkets; 170
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Moonshyne Holiday; Taffy Trueheart. Due to a misunderstanding, Harpy didn't get on well with Tris Havoc until things were cleared up in February 2006. Head waitress and day manager (formerly night manager) at Sinful Sundaes. Appeared in 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Cosmina del Costa Formerly human, now an immortal. Cosmina is a clothes designer and owner of exclusive boutique Bella Vestiti. Her ex-fiancé is John Worthington (not resident in Spellfire). Her partner is Cade Valeray. Her best friend is Amy Pettibone. Family: mother Luca del Costa; stepfather Paul. Appeared in 'Clothes Minded' by Karen Rose in Spellfire Moons (2006). Luca del Costa Human. Snobbish high society woman, vicious when crossed. Mother of Cosmina; husband Paul is rather spineless. Appeared in 'Clothes Minded' by Karen Rose in Spellfire Moons (2006). Kiran Crawford An immortal, originally from New Orleans, once possessed by a demon. Now he owns Rage with his partner Alex Westin. He acts as bouncer with his friend Lycius. His best friend is Sam. Appeared in 'In the Hot Zone' by C D Reese, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Daniel Former lover of Lily, with whom he's reunited in September 2006. Appeared in ‘Wafers & Wishes’ by Emily LaRue, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Demetrius A Greek carpenter, half-human, half-immortal, who's been around for a few thousand years. Formerly he lived in the Peloponnese in Greece, and he's been itinerant through the years, working for Louis XIV and also seeing action at the Battle of Stalingrad. He speaks several languages. His mother is Lachesis. His partner is Achlys. Appeared in ‘Fresh Fruit & Fate’ by Ann Regentin, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Devina 171
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A gen-witch. Wife of Takor. Occasional assistant in Trinkets, where she has a magic lab. Appeared in 'Heart Spells' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Dina Diablo Waitress at Sinful Sundaes and a student at the Alchemy Academy, working towards her degree in Malefic Magic. Currently interning with Electra Spellfire. Dina's father is a demon and her mother is a fairy. Her cousin and best friend is Shai. Her partner(s) is/are Laurance Boudreaux (Lance & Rance). Appeared in ‘Sprinkles & Hot Hunks’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Diz (short for Merratodiz) A good spirit of the Grollim, or Shadow People, he often helps the Sheriff department on patrols. Diz secretly wishes for a real body so that he can love one certain dispatcher at the Sheriff’s department. Appeared in ‘The Grollim’ by Bridghid Parkinson, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Blaze Draconis A dragon-shifter, Blaze was formerly Spellfire's Maintenance Engineer until a rumor put about by Mayor Perry Normil made her lose her confidence. Blaze waitresses at Sinful Sundaes, but may return to her previous job in due course. Her partner is Roald Rumsfeld. Appeared in 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Werner Dryden A wealthy werewolf. Best friend: Anton Spellfire. Ex-lover: Falona. Fancies and flirts with Electra Spellfire. His current partner is Phyllis Phantasmus. Appeared in ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Brock Edwards Human. Galveston-based owner of 'Repairs R Us'; called to fix an unhappy machine at the Spellfire Sweet Factory. Partner of Melody Jameson. Planned to move to Spellfire permanently. Appeared in 'Mummies & Marshmallows' by Jennifer Metz, in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Ereus
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A gen-witch. Husband of Jaleena Trinkets. Co-manager of Nightshades. He lives above the shop. Appeared in 'Heart Spells' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Bushy Evergreen One of Santa Claus' elves, he invented a toy-making machine to mass-produce gifts. One of the five elves to go on strike before Christmas 2005. Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Falona Beautiful fairy, ex-lover of Werner Dryden. Appeared in ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Feather The High Fairy of the Mystic Meadows. Granddaughter of Lily. Her partner is Kayne Niam. Appeared in ‘Wafers & Wishes’ by Emily LaRue, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Feisal Persian (Iranian), now an American citizen. Formerly an engineer, he did his PhD in the US and brought his family to live in Spellfire. He now runs a restaurant in the town. Husband of Salwa, father of Daoud (David), Saladeen (Dean), and Aida. Appeared in 'Eid el-Fitr' by Ann Regentin in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Freddy Faeren Paranormal owner of Spellfire Sweets Factory. Appeared in 'Mummies & Marshmallows' by Jennifer Metz, in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Fancy Faraday Northern witch; sister of Frightful Frieda and sometime love-rival for the affections of Geo McMillan. Appeared in 'A Statue for All Seasons' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Seasons (2005). 'Frightful' Frieda Faraday-Farthington A mean-tempered Northern witch who dislikes pretty girls and lovers ever since her husband ran off with the wife of Mayor Perry Normil. Her sister is Fancy Faraday. Frieda is a jealous gossip who's not above casting spells on unsuspecting men, such as her curse on Geo McMillan. She 173
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once had a broom shop, which burned down in the 1980s. Appeared in numerous Spellfire stories. Marissa Gael A witch who can produce quick lightning. Marissa is descended from gypsy stock. Currently a final year student at the Alchemy Academy. Her mother is Lady Serena Gael. Her partner is Professor Darien Raven, and she's friends with Electra Spellfire. Appeared in 'Witches & Walnuts' by Anne Leland in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Serena, Lady Gael A gypsy, mistress of the Tarot, who has Lycan blood (her grandfather was half-werewolf. She has a daughter, Marissa. Her close friend is Nitocris. Her partner is Chase MacGregor. Appeared in ‘Tarot & Toasted Almonds’ by Anne Leland, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Gak A gremlin, owner of Gak's Garage. Appeared in ‘Sprinkles & Hot Hunks’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Gale Trusted valet and occasional lover of Werner Dryden. Appeared in ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Gina Software programmer on the run from abusive ex, Bobby (not a resident of Spellfire). She rented a room from Shepenwepet and worked at The Eighth Deadly Sin. Now she's the head of the creative department and children's games at the Blue Ice Games Company. Her partner is Al. Appeared in 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Bess Green Of Dryad and Naiad Nymph heritage, Bess is the owner of Nymph Nursery. Bess is known for healing plants and most problems in nature, but can she survive the love one Elfen warrior lord, Danu’ell Whistler. Appeared in Nymph Gardens & Elfen Moons by Jewel Adams, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest (2006) Matthias Gregory 174
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A British vampire. Matthias reads audio books for a living. He lives in a trailer, which is a temporary residence. Father of 10-month old (as of summer 2006) daughter and witch Aurora. Aurora's mother is Vixienne (not resident in Spellfire). His partner is Erin Mackenzie. Appeared in 'High Chairs & High Stakes' by Jenna Leigh, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Evilyn Grum An unpleasant goblin, who applied for a job at Sinful Sundaes but lost out to Dina Diablo. Appeared in ‘Sprinkles & Hot Hunks’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Habibeh Female djinni, wife of Asad. Appeared in 'Eid el-Fitr' by Ann Regentin in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Tristine (Tris) Havoc A witch, Tris lives in and runs Havoc House. Her husband is Adam Spellfire. She is close friends with Electra Spellfire. Other friends include: Jaleena Trinkets; Candy Piper. Her ex-lovers include Bobby Bedlam and Josh Nasterian. Appeared in 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Ishmaiah Hawkins The ghost of Spellfire's original town crier, who still walks the same route as he did when the town was established. He calls the midnight hour in the kitchen of Sinful Sundaes. Appeared in 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Heather A talented witch-healer, who plans on establishing a research centre to cure curses and ailments caused by malicious paranormals. The centre will be built on land donated by her husband Zechariah near their home, Zechariah's Cabin. Appeared in 'Haunted Love' by Tamara James, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Horrible Henry The Spellfire town ghost, buried alive by his wife beneath Boodoirs a century ago for swinging both ways once too often. Henry is looking for a way to break the curse, but he's 175
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not looking too hard - he enjoys being the town's number one mischief-maker, and he's always the first one to know the gossip. As his nickname suggests, he can be a mean-spirited spirit, but he can also be relied on to liven up a dull situation. Appeared in numerous Spellfire stories. Moonshyne (Shyne) Holiday One of very few moon faeries in existence, Shyne is the daughter of Holly and Austin Holiday, although she was raised with Alex Ruveaux. She worked for Alex at his bistro in Houston until her move (summer 2006) to Spellfire, where she joined the staff at Garnet Moon as the hostess. Her husband is Malaci Spellfire. Shyne and Malaci are expecting a baby boy in spring 2007. Friends: Alex Ruveaux; Electra Spellfire; Lillia West; Harpy Collins. Appeared in 'Moonshyne' by Jewel Adams in Spellfire Moons (2006) and the special Moonshyne’. Dazzle Honeydew-Gentlepuff An inspiration fairy allocated to help Stephen McClintock. Her current partner is Xerxes Vervain Samhianwine III. Appeared in 'The Grand Design' by Melanie Gilbreath in Spellfire Moons (2006). Ianeria A sea nymph from Crete, married to Jacob. Her niece is Heather. Appeared in 'Haunted Love' by Tamara James, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Trevor Jackson Human, best-selling crime novelist (under the name T. J. Jackson). He and his wife Candy Piper now live in Spellfire. Appeared in 'Candy Kisses' by Emery LaRue, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Jacob A wizard, formerly resident and keeper of Zechariah's Cabin. His wife is Ianeria. Heather is his niece, and Misty the marmalade cat is his familiar. Friends include: Lorvena Mayhem. Appeared in 'Haunted Love' by Tamara James, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Melody Jameson 176
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Human. El Paso-based health inspector visiting the Spellfire Sweet Factory. Partner of Brock Edwards. Planned to move to Spellfire permanently. Appeared in 'Mummies & Marshmallows' by Jennifer Metz, in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Jewlie Human truck driver for the Fairy Belle Ice Cream Company, which supplies Sinful Sundaes. Jewlie's partner is Kor, for whom she now works. Appeared in 'Fairies & Cherries' by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Jimmy An 18-year old (in 2005) shifter who works the night shift at Sinful Sundaes with Ella Welles. Appeared in 'Twilight Shadows & Just Desserts' by Katrina Marlowe in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Katastrophe Owner of Seductive Secrets Boutique, the business given to her by her friend Mandy Claus (formerly Mandy Stockholm). Kat is a single mother with a baby (gender unknown), whose fiancé skipped town when he found out she was pregnant. Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Kinard Gnome with fifteen daughters. He's been married for three hundred years and is known to be fond of a drink or several, often passing out in dark alleyways. Appeared in 'Eid el-Fitr' by Ann Regentin in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Kor A fairy. His sister is Fairy Belle, and together they run an ice cream (soy-based) company in the land of the Fae. Kor's partner is Jewlie. Appeared in 'Fairies & Cherries' by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Lachesis One of the Moirai, the Three Fates of ancient Greek mythology, she is the sister who cuts the thread of human life. Although not resident in Spellfire, she drops in on people 177
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when Fate decides to take a hand. Her son is Demetrius. Appeared in ‘Fresh Fruit & Fate’ by Ann Regentin, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Shonda Lamont A witch, she's the daughter of an African-American witch and an English human scientist. Shonda is a weekend waitress at Sinful Sundaes and is doing her Masters degree in Bio Magic at the Alchemy Academy. Her first degree, in Bio Science, is from the University of Houston. She also works as a biologist at Nymph Nurseries. Her partner is Teth. Appeared in ‘Sexparilla Shakes & Spacemen’ by Mae Powers, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Morgan LeHavoc A French cousin of the Havoc family, Morgan is a sorcerer who can create thunderstorms. He also has shape-shifting and invisibility powers. He has some fairy blood. His partner is Shai. Friends: Peter the Pixie; Damien Spellfire. Cousin: Tris Havoc. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Lily Known as 'The Wise One', Lily is the former High Fairy of the Mystic Meadows, she reigned in favour of her granddaughter Feather so she could rejoin her lover Daniel. Appeared in ‘Wafers & Wishes’ by Emily LaRue, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Lycius Formerly one of the god Ares' soldiers, he's now a bouncer at Rage. Friends: Kiran Crawford; Alex Westin; Sam. Appeared in 'In the Hot Zone' by C D Reese, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Erin Mackenzie A powerful witch and former nanny with Spellfire's Paranormal Tots Agency. Her partner is Matthias Gregory; she will be step mom to Aurora Gregory. Appeared in 'High Chairs & High Stakes' by Jenna Leigh, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Maejika Maelstrom A witch, Maejika is the owner of Spellfire's town newspaper, The Spellfire Spawn. Friend of Electra Spellfire. Appeared in 178
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'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006) and in ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). ‘Shadows and Darkness’ by Mae Powers, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Mano A Mano (Manny) A mysterious disembodied hand who communicates in Morse code, Manny is the best money-counter in Spellfire. He tallies up the cash at Sinful Sundaes as well as the bars and clubs along Alligator Alley. He lives at Boodoirs. In late 2006 he temporarily regained his human body through a spell by Electra Spellfire. Manny returned return to being a hand. His partner is Taffy Trueheart. Appeared in 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange, in Spellfire Hearts (2006) and in ‘Things & Hot Taffy’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Garland Mayhem Half-human, half-selkie, son of Samuel and Lorvena Mayhem; husband of Mistletoe. A Montana rancher; he comes to Spellfire in search of his mother. Appeared in 'Mistletoe & Mayhem' by Emery LaRue, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Lorvena Mayhem Selkie female, mother of Garland and estranged wife of Samuel until their reunion at Christmas 2005. Appeared in 'Mistletoe & Mayhem' by Emery LaRue, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Samuel Mayhem Human Father of Garland and estranged husband of Lorvena until their reunion at Christmas 2005. Appeared in 'Mistletoe & Mayhem' by Emery LaRue, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Chase McGregor A reclusive werewolf. His first wife (now deceased) was the famous movie star Jillian MacGregor, with whom he had a son, Jason. He has a sister, Elora. His partner now is Serena, Lady Gael. Appeared in 'Witches & Walnuts' by Anne Leland in Sinful Sundaes (2005) and in ‘Tarot & Toasted Almonds’ by Anne Leland, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Jason MacGregor 179
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A werewolf, son of Jillian (deceased) and Chase MacGregor; nephew of Elora, with whom he lived until he returned to stay with his father in September 2006. Appeared in ‘Tarot & Toasted Almonds’ by Anne Leland, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Maejika Maelstrom A very powerful witch and friends with Electra Spellfire, Maejika helps Sianna find the answers she seeks from Spellfire’s history. A dangerous journey in time that may have cost all three witches and Spellfire much more than they realize. Appeared in ‘Shadows and Darkness’ by Mae Powers, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Magnolia McClintock A witch who married a human. She returned to Spellfire a widow, and has got herself a boy toy, Trevor. Her son is Stephen McClintock. Appeared in 'The Grand Design' by Melanie Gilbreath in Spellfire Moons (2006). Stephen McClintock Mostly human (his mother is a witch). Stephen is a successful sculptor whose works have been exhibited at a major gallery in Houston. His partner is Amy Pettibone. His mother is Magnolia. Appeared in 'The Grand Design' by Melanie Gilbreath in Spellfire Moons (2006). Geovani (Geo) Leone McMillan Moved to Spellfire in the early 1900s and was cursed by Frightful Frieda to take the form of a statue. Until Christmas 2005, he stood in Spellfire Park. Now the partner of Lillia West, he works with her in the library of the Witches' (Alchemy) Academy. Appeared in 'A Statue for All Seasons' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Pepper Mintstix One of Santa Claus' elves, he's Santa's chief of security. One of the five elves to go on strike before Christmas 2005. Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Mistletoe (Missy) Selkie female, wife of Garland Mayhem, former waitress at Spirits Tavern. Missy and Garland's first child is expected in 180
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Fall 2006. Missy's friends include Candy Piper. Appeared in 'Mistletoe & Mayhem' by Emery LaRue, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Iman Mummies One of Shai's ex-lovers. Iman is now married. He's a part-time cashier at Trinkets. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Myrtha A Munchkin, Myrtha works as a receptionist at Otto's Oddities. She's not afraid of her boss and it's rumored that she knows a dark secret about Otto that forces him to respect her. Appeared in ‘Things & Hot Taffy’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Josh Nasterian One of Tristine Havoc's ex-lovers, he was turned into an oak tree for a time. His father Mr. Nasterian is a werewolf and the head coach at Spellfire High. Appeared in 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Kayne Niam Human healer, Kayne owns Wafers & Wishes in Spellfire town centre. He lives above the shop, although soon he'll be relocating to live in the Mystic Meadows with his partner Feather. Appeared in ‘Wafers & Wishes’ by Emily LaRue, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Daniel J (DJ) Nightshade Fiancé of Abby Normil, whom he's looking for against all hope. Posts her “Missing” posters all over the town. Appeared in ‘Things & Hot Taffy’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Nitocris A mummy, perhaps a member of the nobility or even of royalty. She wears a lot of jewelry and is rather bossy. Nitocris works as a waitress at Sinful Sundaes. She is good friends with Serena, Lady Gael, and is something of an expert on werewolves. Appeared in 'Witches & Walnuts' by Anne Leland in Sinful Sundaes (2005) and in ‘Tarot & Toasted Almonds’ by Anne Leland, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Abby Normil 181
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Sister of Perry Normil. She once stood as candidate for mayor against her brother, but disappeared mysteriously. Appeared in Abby has not yet appeared in a Spellfire story, but her disappearance is mentioned. Perry Normil The Mayor of Spellfire. He's a human who dislikes the town's paranormal set, although he is friends with a couple of the spooky set. His wife ran off with the husband of 'Frightful' Frieda Farthington, with whom he has an odd friendship. He's not averse to dodgy dealing - money and power are things he loves - and he rips off Spellfire demons by making them buy a license before they're allowed to practice their magic. Perry has a sister, Abby, who disappeared a few years ago, and other family members. Appeared in numerous Spellfire stories. Wunorse Openslae One of Santa Claus' elves, he invented the sleigh. One of the five elves to go on strike before Christmas 2005. Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Otto Ogring A surly ogre with a reputation for cornering his female employees in the basement of his shop Otto's Oddities. Appeared in ‘Things & Hot Taffy’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Peter (the Pixie) A pixie. Ex-lover of Shai. Wife: Katie the Irish leprechaun (resident in Dublin, Ireland). Friends: Morgan LeHavoc; Damien Spellfire. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Amy Pettibone A witch, Amy is an interior designer who owns and runs Ley Line Designs. Her partner is Stephen McClintock. Her best friend is Cosmina del Costa. Appeared in 'The Grand Design' by Melanie Gilbreath in Spellfire Moons (2006). Phyllis Phantasmus An investigative reporter and gossip columnist for The Spellfire Spawn, Phyllis can make herself invisible at will - but she has to be naked. She clashes with her demanding boss 182
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Maejika Maelstrom, and dislikes fellow reporter Winkle. Her current partner is Werner Dryden. Appeared in ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Candy Piper A Chicago-born witch, Candy is the owner of sweet shop Candied Kisses. She's also a member of the Witches' Guild. She can control the temperamental machinery in the Spellfire Sweet Factory. Her husband is . Friends: Electra Spellfire, Missy, Jaleena Trinkets, Tris Havoc, Harpy Collins, Shai. Appeared in 'Candy Kisses' by Emery LaRue in Spellfire Hearts (2006); plus minor roles in other Spellfire stories. Ramses A mummy who spent a long time as an exhibit in the Spellfire Museum until he was reanimated and reunited with his lost love. Seems to have made an enemy of Shepenwepet. Appeared in 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Darien Raven A witch, formerly something of an adventurer in his youth, now a professor in Relationship Spells at the Alchemy Academy. His partner is Marissa Gael. Appeared in 'Witches & Walnuts' by Anne Leland in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Roca Ancient Incan spirit and Spellfire's car mechanic. He's friends with Al. Appeared in 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Penny Royal Waitress at Sinful Sundaes. Friend of Dina Diablo. Appeared in ‘Sprinkles & Hot Hunks’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Roald Rumsfeld An elemental (fire) sorcerer who works as a silversmith. Partner of Blaze Draconis. Friends: Derek Spellfire. Appeared in 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Alexander (Alex or Lexi) Veldus Ruveaux 183
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Vamperian, nationally renowned chef whose dessert placed second to Electra's in a contest. Formerly the head chef of a five-star restaurant and chef-manager of a top Houston hotel, Lexi had his own TV show at one time. Now he runs an internet business as well as a restaurant, Garnet Moon. Husband of Electra Spellfire. Lexi's mother Elenor (not a Spellfire resident) sits on the Tribunal of Elders, the high court of the Council of Paranormals. He has been friends with Moonshyne Holiday since they were children. Appeared in 'Strawberry Veinilla & Vamperians' by Mae Powers in Sinful Sundaes (2005) as the main character; has appeared in other Spellfire stories in a more minor role. Salwa Persian (Iranian), now an American citizen. Housewife. Married to Feisal, mother of Daoud (David), Saladeen (Dean), and Aida. Appeared in 'Eid el-Fitr' by Ann Regentin in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Sam A corporeal ghost who serves behind the bar at Rage. His past is mysterious and shady, and has something to do with the Battle of Alamo. Friends with Kiran Crawford; Alex Westin; Lycius. Appeared in 'In the Hot Zone' by C D Reese, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Xerxes Vervain Samhianwine III An English insomnia fairy, card-carrying member of NOSLP (National Organization of Sleep Loss Providers). His current partner is Dazzle Honeydew-Gentlepuff. Appeared in 'The Grand Design' by Melanie Gilbreath in Spellfire Moons (2006). Sandee Sandee ("with two e's") is the ex-lover of Cade Valeray. She has some paranormal power. Appeared in 'Clothes Minded' by Karen Rose in Spellfire Moons (2006). Jace Sawyer A small-time criminal who became a ghost. He's now the night shift manager at Sinful Sundaes. His partner is Ella Welles. Appeared in 'Twilight Shadows & Just Desserts' by Katrina Marlowe in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Shai 184
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A mischief-making fairy. Partners: Shai is enjoying a ménage a troi with Damien Spellfire and Morgan LeHavoc. Her exlovers include: Peter the Pixie, Iman Mummies, Frankie Stein, Thunder and Mikhail, the ex-husband of Electra Spellfire (Mikhail and Electra were already separated when the fling took place). Shai's cousin is Dina Diablo. Shai's friends include: Jaleena Trinkets; Candy Piper; Taffy Trueheart. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Shallab Chief mummy of Spellfire, organizer of the Mummy Gay Corps, who have an annual gala and parade through the town. Was once propositioned by Horrible Henry, but turned him down. Appeared in Shallab has not yet appeared in a Spellfire story. Shepenwepet A disfigured and grouchy mummy who rents out cheap rooms in his two-storey, yellow stucco house on Granger & Franklin. Gina lived there for a time. Shepenwepet hates Ramses. Appeared in 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Sianna A young witch in poor health that comes home to Spellfire. She works with Maejika as a historian for the Dead Librarians Society to gather information on Spellfire’s past concerning the power struggle of good and evil in Spellfire. Appeared in ‘Shadows and Darkness’ by Mae Powers, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Angus Sinclair Owner of Barnabas' Bar. Appeared in Angus has not yet appeared in a Spellfire story. Alabaster Snowball One of Santa Claus' elves, he's the administrator of the Naughty & Nice List and also head of the Equal Opportunities for Fairy Folk Union. One of the five elves to go on strike before Christmas 2005. Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Adam Spellfire 185
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A demvir, he spent some time away from Spellfire before returning home. He lives in and runs Spell House. His wife is Tristine Havoc. Cousins: Electra Spellfire, Anton Spellfire, Damien Spellfire, Derek Spellfire, Malaci Spellfire; Spirit Tredmane. Friend: Teth. Appeared in 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Anton Spellfire Wife: Cindy. Best friend: Werner Dryden. Cousins: Electra Spellfire, Damien Spellfire, Adam Spellfire, Derek Spellfire, Malaci Spellfire; Spirit Tredmane. Appeared in ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Damien Spellfire A wizard with shape-shifting powers. Partner: Shai. Siblings: Electra Spellfire (twin sister); Derek Spellfire; Malaci Spellfire (younger brothers). Cousins: Adam Spellfire; Anton Spellfire; Spirit Tredmane. Uncle: Zathan Spellfire. Friends: Peter the Pixie; Morgan LeHavoc. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Derek Spellfire An elemental (air and wind) sorcerer. He owns the janitorial service A Clean Sweep, and became the town Maintenance Engineer when Blaze Draconis was forced to resign. Husband of Harpy Collins. Brother of Electra Spellfire; Damien Spellfire; Malaci Spellfire Cousins: Adam Spellfire; Anton Spellfire; Spirit Tredmane. Uncle: Zathan Spellfire. Friends: Roald Rumsfeld. Appeared in 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Electra Spellfire Powerful Amazonian witch, from the town's founding family. She owns Sinful Sundaes Ice Cream Shop, although a bitter battle with her ex, Mikhail (who had a fling with Shai and was banished to the Underworld) saw her fighting to keep the shop. She is a talented dessert chef: her Strawberry Veinilla Cream Puff won first prize in a contest. Electra also creates potions and lotions for Trinkets, as well as for human and paranormal customers around the world. One of Electra's special powers is the ability to trans-shift (see entry under 186
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witch). She maintains permanent rooms at Boodoirs B&B, but creates her ice creams and potions on the premises of her shop. Electra's husband is Alexander 'Lexi' Ruveaux, with whom she owns and runs the restaurant Garnet Moon. Brothers: Damien Spellfire (her twin); Derek Spellfire; Malaci Spellfire (younger brothers). Cousins: Adam Spellfire, Anton Spellfire, Spirit Tredmane. Sisters-in-law: Harpy Collins; Moonshyne Holiday. Uncle: Zathan Spellfire. Friends: Harpy Collins; Marissa Gael; Jaleena Trinkets; Candy Piper; Tris Havoc; Moonshyne Holiday. She doesn't like Shai. Appeared in 'Strawberry Veinilla & Vamperians' by Mae Powers in Sinful Sundaes (2005) as the main character; has appeared in many other Spellfire stories in minor roles. Malaci Spellfire A demvir, Malaci is the Spellfire town sheriff. His wife is Moonshyne Holiday. Malaci and Shyne are expecting a little boy in spring 2007. Sister: Electra Spellfire. Brothers: Damian Spellfire; Derek Spellfire. Cousins: Adam Spellfire; Anton Spellfire; Spirit Tredmane. Uncle: Zathan Spellfire. Appeared in 'Moonshyne' by Jewel Adams in Spellfire Moons (2006). Zathan Spellfire [Deceased?] Uncle and guardian (during the 1980s) of Electra, Damien, Derek and Malaci Spellfire. Possibly Adam Spellfire or Anton Spellfire's father? Appeared in 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Frankie Stein Ex-lover of Shai. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Mandy Stockholm Former owner of Seductive Secrets Boutique. Wife of Nickolas Claus. Friend of Katastrophe (Kat). Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Sugarplum Mary 187
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One of Santa Claus' elves, she's a bakery assistant to Mrs. Claus. One of the five elves to go on strike before Christmas 2005. Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Synkor A hunky ghost wizard, Synkor works in Nightshades for Jaleena Trinkets and Ereus. Appeared in 'Clothes Minded' by Karen Rose in Spellfire Moons (2006). Takor A wizard. Husband of Devina. Occasional assistant in Trinkets, where he has a magic lab. Appeared in 'Heart Spells' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Terri Torarcane A witch dispatcher at the Spellfire Sheriff’s Department, the only dispatcher with any ties to the Grollim or Shadow People. Appeared in ‘The Grollim’ by Bridghid Parkinson, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Teth An alien from Pluto, Teth is the salesman for Plutonian Puffs and Pretzels. Spellfire is the company's biggest account on Earth, and Sinful Sundaes is just outlet that stocks the tasty snacks. Teth's closest friend in town is Adam Spellfire. His partner is Shonda Lamont. Appeared in ‘Sexparilla Shakes & Spacemen’ by Mae Powers, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Thunder A fire fairy. Former lover of Shai. Appeared in 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Spirit Tredmane Jeweler and designer, owner of 'Spirit Designs', a jewelry business selling through Trinkets Wife of Gabe Blackwolf; cousin of Electra Spellfire, Damien Spellfire, Derek Spellfire, Malaci Spellfire, & Adam Spellfire. Spirit and Gabe are expecting their first offspring in Fall 2006. Appeared in 'Spirit's Bells' by Tamara James in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Jaleena Trinkets Half-human, half-witch, the daughter of Marion and Jeffery (Rafe), Jaleena can understand spells and ride a broom. She 188
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also has the special book empathy of her aunt Katspell and uncle Jeth. Manager of Nightshades; she lives above the shop. Wife of Ereus. Friends: Electra Spellfire; Candy Piper; Tris Havoc; Harpy Collins, Shai. Appeared in 'Heart Spells' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Jeffery Rafael (Rafe) Trinkets A wizard, founder of Trinkets and traveling lecturer. His wife is Marion; his daughter is Jaleena. His brother is Jeth Trinkets. Jeffery and Marion have a house in Paris, France, that they intend to sell shortly so they can return full-time to Spellfire. Appeared in 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Jeth Trinkets A wizard, co-manager of Trinkets. He has a special affinity with books. His wife is Katspell; his niece is Jaleena. His brother is Jeffery Rafe Trinkets. Jeth and Katspell are expecting twins in early summer 2007. For the next few months they'll be spending time in the house in Paris, France, belonging to Marion and Jeffery. Appeared in 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Katspell Calloway Trinkets A witch-empath, co-manager of Trinkets. Like her husband Jeth, Katspell has a special affinity with books. Her niece is Jaleena. Her best friend is Marion. Katspell and Jeth are expecting twins in early summer 2007. For the next few months they'll be spending time in the house in Paris, France, belonging to Marion and Jeffery. Appeared in 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Marion McFae Trinkets A halfling witch-fairy, founder of Trinkets and noted clothes designer. Her husband is Jeffery Rafe; her daughter is Jaleena. Her best friend is Katspell. Jeffery and Marion have a house in Paris, France, that they intend to sell shortly so they can return full-time to Spellfire. Appeared in 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Taffeta (Taffy) Trueheart A former tooth fairy who gave up her wand and wings when she left the business, although she still has a very sweet tooth. Her fairy lineage is impeccable. She knows Morse code. 189
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Friends: Harpy Collins; Shai Partner: Manny. Appeared in ‘Things & Hot Taffy’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Shinny Upatree One of Santa Claus' elves. He remained loyal to Santa and came to help Nickolas Claus resolve the Christmas 2005 dispute. Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Cade Valeray An immortal, the son of Irish hero Cuchulain and the Celtic goddess Fand. He's the owner and chief mechanic of Quantum Mechanics. His partner is Cosmina del Costa. Appeared in 'In the Hot Zone' by C D Reese in Spellfire Moons (2006). Paula Vandress Assistant manager of Sinful Sundaes. Appeared in 'Strawberry Veinilla & Vamperians' by Mae Powers in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Ella Welles A ghost, night shift waitress at Sinful Sundaes. Her partner is Jace Sawyer. Appeared in 'Twilight Shadows & Just Desserts' by Katrina Marlowe in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Lillia West A witch (not as powerful as Electra Spellfire or Frightful Frieda). She was formerly the librarian in charge of the Paranormal section at Spellfire Library; now she works in the library at the Witches' (Alchemy) Academy. She lives at the Haunted Hills Apartments on Twisted Lane. Her partner is Geo McMillan. Her niece is Chissie. Friends: Moonshyne Holiday. Appeared in 'A Statue for All Seasons' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Alexandra (Alex) Westin An immortal, formerly a Captain and assassin for the US military. She now owns and manages Rage. Her mother is the goddess Artemis; her father the huntsman Orion. Her partner is Kiran Crawford. Friends: Sam; Lycius. Appeared in 'In the Hot Zone' by C D Reese, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Mrs. Wheeler 190
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Human. An old lady who's lived her whole life in Spellfire. She's a mine of knowledge about the residents, both normal and paranormal, and is always ready to share her information. Appeared in 'Twilight Shadows & Just Desserts' by Katrina Marlowe in Sinful Sundaes. Dan/Danu’ell Whistler Dan owns the troubled Whistler Farm on the outside boundary of Spellfire. His neighbor Zechariah, sends him to town to get help for his barren land from Bess Green, owner of Nymph Nursery. Dan finds more than he bargains for when Bess helps his daughter, Amanda, find her voice and awakens his Elfen Warrior blood in the Mother’s Moon. Appeared in Nymph Gardens & Elfen Moons by Jewel Adams, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest (2006) Winkle A sly and cunning fairy, Winkle is a roving reporter for The Spellfire Spawn. Rumored to be having a fling with Maejika Maelstrom. Appeared in ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Dr. Witchman One of the town's GPs. Appeared in 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Zechariah (Zach) Formerly a ghost cursed by his first wife, now fully human again after 110 years in spirit form. His wife is Heather. They live in Zechariah's Cabin. Appeared in 'Haunted Love' by Tamara James, in Spellfire Hearts (2006).
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Buildings & Locations in Spellfire While Spellfire town centre is compact enough for residents to walk around, many people have their own vehicles or prefer to catch the ghost trolley bus that travels across town. •
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Alchemy Academy (also known as The Witches' Academy) Paranormal college of further education for young and mature students. Location unknown as yet, but it has a medium-size campus and is not far from the town centre. Some of the classes taken in a three-year degree are: Relationship Spells 101; Elementals Dance; Power Spells; Life Spells; Business Spells; Malefic Magic; Non-Toxic Mixology. Degrees can also be taken in specialized subjects such as Bio-Magic. Professor Darien Raven is the tutor of Relationship Spells 101. Lillia West and Geo McMillan work in the library. Appeared in 'Witches & Walnuts' by Anne Leland in Sinful Sundaes (2005) and various other Spellfire stories. Alligator Alley One can cut down through Alligator Alley to reach Spellfire's club district. It's here you'll find O'Malley's and Rage (formerly Mischief Mike's). Appeared in 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Babbling Brook A small stream that runs through Spellfire and out into Spellfire Woods. Appeared in 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Barnabas' Bar Bar and night club, owned by Angus Sinclair, with fairies as bar staff. Located next door to Sinful Sundaes on one side of the Town Square. Local regular Electra Spellfire has a tab there. Appeared in numerous Spellfire stories. The Bell Tower Located on one side of the Town Square in the centre of Spellfire. Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). 192
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Bella Vestiti Exclusive designer clothes boutique in downtown Spellfire, owned and run by Cosmina del Costa. Appeared in 'Clothes Minded' by Karen Rose in Spellfire Moons (2006). Blue Ice Games Company A major employer in Spellfire, it produces console games such as the popular 'Death's Herald', and simulation software. The owner is Al; Gina is head of the creative department and children's games; Asad is an employee. Appeared in 'Eid el-Fitr' by Ann Regentin in Spellfire Seasons (2005) and 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Boodoirs Bed & Breakfast accommodation located opposite Sinful Sundaes. It's run by a family of ghosts, some of whom only take human form at Halloween. Years ago, Horrible Henry was buried alive underneath the house by his wife. Electra Spellfire rents permanent rooms there, as does Dina Diablo. Appeared in numerous Spellfire stories. Candied Kisses Old-fashioned sweet shop that also serves up delicious cakes and pastries with a magical twist! The owner is Candy Piper, and the shop is located on the Town Square further along the block from Sinful Sundaes. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Core of Life- Located under Spellfire, with an access point through Sinful Sundaes. A source of magic but the exact details are a heavily guarded secret. Appeared in ‘Shadows and Darkness’ by Mae Powers, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Dead Librarians’ Society Located in Spellfire, the Society gathers important information and historic facts About Spellfire. Sianna is a young witch/reporter that has returned to Spellfire from working at the New York Mystic Press. She is now working for the Dead Librarian’s Society and her relative Professor Spookman, trying to obtain 193
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important information on Spellfire’s history that weighs heavily on the balance of good and evil in Spellfire. Appeared in ‘Shadows and Darkness’ by Mae Powers, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Deadman's Delicatessen Don't let the name put you off - this deli serves up the best grilled chicken in town. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006). The Eighth Deadly Sin (aka The Eighth) Seedy bar owned by a demon. Gina found temporary work there. Appeared in 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Faeryville Realm of the fae: fairies, pixies, leprechauns and any other paranormal creature with faery blood in its veins. Faeryville is located directly beneath the town of Spellfire. Mischief-maker Shai claims the place became boring after one of the leading faeries, Kor, brought his human lover Jewlie to stay there. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Frieda's Broom Shop Broom shop owned by Frightful Frieda. It was burned down in the 1980s. Appeared in 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Moons (2006); plus mentions in numerous Spellfire stories. Gak's Garage Located in Spellfire, this is a reliable automobile garage run by Gak the gremlin. Appeared in ‘Sprinkles & Hot Hunks’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Games Shop Located on the Town Square, this store sells computer and fantasy gaming equipment. They often hold Creature Wars marathons, which are very popular. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006). The Garden 194
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The goddess Demeter's memorial to extinct plants, trees, flowers and shrubs, The Garden is hidden in plain sight on the outskirts of Spellfire. It is cared for by a Guardian, Achlys, who nurtures it with her lifeforce. She is helped by a group of fairies. Appeared in ‘Fresh Fruit & Fate’ by Ann Regentin, in in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Garnet Moon Restaurant owned and managed by Electra Spellfire and Alex Ruveaux. It's located on the outskirts of the town, close to Interstate 45 on the way to Galveston. Moonshyne (Shyne) Holiday is the hostess. The wine steward is a French ghost. Appeared in 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange and 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006); 'Moonshyne' by Jewel Adams in Spellfire Moons (2006). Haunted Hills Apartments Modern apartment complex located on Twisted Lane, within strolling distance of the town centre and Paraboolie's Pizza Place. Its residents are humans and paranormals. Lillia West lives there. Appeared in 'A Statue for All Seasons' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Havoc Hotel Southern-style mansion hotel offering quality accommodation to normals and paranormals on the opposite side of town to Spell House, with which it is in direct and very keen competition. The mansion is set in a garden with small pathways, fountains, old trees and a beautiful flower display. Each old-fashioned suite has modern amenities, including a kitchenette, 36-inch television with cable, and a luxurious ensuite bathroom. The focal point of the public rooms is a big ballroom. Outside there's a patio giving views over the rest of the garden, including a large man-made lake. Appeared in numerous Spellfire stories. Labyrinthine Institution Abandoned early hospital building over looking the remote edges of Spellfire near I-45. Fire gutted most of the building leaving only cement and steel walls, floor and stairs. Dangerous ruins. Private property. Guarded by the Grollim. 195
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Appeared in ‘The Grollim’ by Bridghid Parkinson, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Ley Line Designs Paranormal interior design company owned and run by Amy Pettibone. She does work for both normals and paranormals, offering elemental alignments and domain harmony. Appeared in 'The Grand Design' by Melanie Gilbreath in Spellfire Moons (2006). Magic Theaters Large 20-screen cinema showing a range of popular films as well as having a choose-your-own-movie facility, where the audience can magically select their favorite film and watch it even if other audience members wish to see a different feature. The cinema also serves great popcorn and hot dogs. Appeared in ‘Sexparilla Shakes & Spacemen’ by Mae Powers, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Mischief Mike's See also: Rage. Very seedy bar in the wrong end of town, frequented by mean and sleazy paranormals. The bar passed to new management in summer 2006 and reopened as Rage. Appeared in 'In the Hot Zone' by C D Reese in Spellfire Moons (2006). Mystic Meadows A short stroll from Spellfire town centre will take you to this fairytale realm where magical creatures (such as unicorns) roam freely. There's a bathing pool inside a crystal cave, and many fairies make their home in this lovely place, including Feather, Lily and the human healer Kayne Niam. Appeared in 'Wafers & Wishes' by Emily LaRue in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Nightshades Situated next door to Trinkets, this is a potion and adult play shop that opened on Valentine's Day, 2006. Managed by Jaleena Trinkets and her husband Ereus, who live above the shop. Their assistant is Synkor. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006); 'Trouble Brews' by mae Powers in Spellfire Moons (2006). Nymph Nursery 196
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Located just outside Spellfire, this is a garden and specialist plant nursery. Bess Green, is the owner of Nymph Nursery. Her Dryad and Naiad Nymph heritage is the perfect combination for the nursery and for one Elfen warrior lord, Danu’ell Whistler. Appeared in Nymph Gardens & Elfen Moons by Jewel Adams, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest (2006) Shonda Lamont works here as a biologist. Appeared in ‘Sexparilla Shakes & Spacemen’ by Mae Powers, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Old Cronies Country Cafe This popular cafe produces delicious Texan home-cooking to eat in or take away. They also make up picnic baskets for holidaymakers out to enjoy themselves in the Spellfire Community Park nearby. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006). O'Malleys The second seediest bar in Spellfire, located at the bottom of Alligator Alley. It's run by Paxton the Pixie. Appeared in 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Otto's Oddities Antique/bric-a-brac shop more like a museum than a store, owned and run by otto Ogring with help from his receptionist Myrtha. Taffy Trueheart was formerly an employee. Appeared in ‘Things & Hot Taffy’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Paraboolie's Pizza Place Eat-in and take-away pizza restaurant, located close to the Haunted Hills Apartments. Appeared in 'A Statue for All Seasons' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Paranormal Tots Agency A childcare and nannying agency especially for the children of paranormal Spellfire residents. Erin Mackenzie was formerly on their books. Appeared in 'High Chairs & High Stakes' by Jenna Leigh, in Spellfire Moons (2006). 197
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Quantum Mechanics Automobile repair shop on the outskirts of town, owned and run by Cade Valeray. Appeared in 'Clothes Minded' by Karen Rose in Spellfire Moons (2006). Rage Formerly known as Mischief Mike's, this is a bar and club at the tough end of town. The owners are Kiran Crawford and Alex Westin; the bartender is Sam. Expect the unexpected here. Live floor-shows and music, and some very big bouncers! Appeared in 'In the Hot Zone' by C D Reese in Spellfire Moons (2006). Seductive Secrets Boutique Lingerie shop located in Spellfire's business district. Carries a wide range of underwear for all occasions at reasonable prices. Owner: Katastrophe (Kat). Previous owner: Mandy Stockholm. Appeared in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons. Selkie Falls A beautiful river running past Spellfire into a forest, where it forms a waterfall and a pool where the town's selkies gather. Appeared in 'Mistletoe & Mayhem' by Emery LaRue, in Spellfire Seasons (2005); 'Candy Kisses' by Emery LaRue in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Sinful Sundaes (aka 'Sins') 100-year old ice cream parlor run by Electra Spellfire. Located on one side of the Town Square, this is the place to be in town. It boasts 42 flavors of ice cream as well as various pastries, cakes and other desserts, including the awardwinning Strawberry Veinilla Cream Puff. For more information, see Electra's introduction to Spellfire. Appeared in numerous Spellfire stories. Slither Swamp A dangerous place outside the town. Even powerful shifters steer clear of this area unless they're forced to enter it. Snake Marsh can be found within the swamp. 198
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Appeared in 'Moonshyne' by Jewel Adams in Spellfire Moons (2006). Snake Marsh Part of Slither Swamp. A cabin is built on the side of the swamp; criminals sometimes use it as a hideout. Moonshyne (Shyne) Holiday was held captive here. Appeared in 'Clothes Minded' by Karen Rose in Spellfire Moons (2006). Spellfire Fire Department Fire station serving the town, including rain fairies. Appeared in 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Moons (2006). Spellfire High School Local high school for normals and paranormals. Mr. Nasterian is the head coach there. Appeared in 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Spell House Luxurious old five-star hotel located just beyond the Town Square (about an eighth of a mile from Barnabas' Bar). Attracts a varied clientele both human and paranormal. Nearest competitor: Havoc Hotel. Appeared in numerous Spellfire stories. Spellfire Library Modern building located close to the Town Hall beside Spellfire Park. Frightful Frieda is the Head Librarian; Lillia West was formerly the librarian in charge of the Paranormal section. The library has its own resident spirits (the Dead Librarians Society) as well as an extensive archive that holds many records on the history and inhabitants of Spellfire. Appeared in 'A Statue for All Seasons' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Spellfire Mini-Mall Located at the end of the main shopping street, the mall has all the stores you'd expect from a mid-sized town. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Spellfire Mosque 199
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An unassuming building with a mustard-coloured dome, located opposite a deli. Appeared in 'Eid el-Fitr' by Ann Regentin in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Spellfire Movie Theatre Located in the Town Square, the theatre runs a double feature show on Saturday nights. Appeared in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Spellfire Museum The town's museum. Location unknown as yet. Ramses the mummy was one of the exhibits until he was reanimated. Appeared in 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Spellfire Park (Spellfire Community Park) Situated behind the Town Hall, Spellfire Park is a large expanse of ground that borders Spellfire Woods on one side. There's a children's play area, a bandstand (the Invisible Men Quartet often play there), and plenty of benches. The town holds festivals, carnivals and other social gatherings in the park, particularly for Valentine's Day. Appeared in numerous Spellfire stories. Spellfire Sheriff Department Located on the outskirt’s of town, the Sheriff is Malaci Spellfire, brother to Electra and Derek Spellfire and now married to Moonshyne Holiday. Terri Torarcane works as the night dispatcher and is one of the few individuals in Spellfire that can speak with the Grollim or Shadow People. Appeared in ‘The Grollim’ by Bridghid Parkinson, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Appeared in ‘Moonshyne’ by Jewel Adams in Spellfire Moons (2006) Spellfire Sweets Factory Large modern factory owned by Freddie Faeren. The machines all have a gender and need careful handling! The sweets are sold across the southern states of the US. A particular favorite is the Marshmallow Cream Mummy. Appeared in 'Mummies & Marshmallows' by Jennifer Metz in Sinful Sundaes (2005). 200
Spellfire Commemorative Spellfire Town Square Park Part of the Town Square area in central Spellfire. Until Christmas 2005, there was a nude statue of Geo McMillan in the park. An empty plinth remains. Appeared in 'A Statue for All Seasons' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Seasons (2005). • Spellfire Wax Museum Location unknown, possibly town centre. Was looking for staff in September 2006: Taffy Trueheart applied there for a job. Appeared in ‘Things & Hot Taffy’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). • Spellfire Woods Secluded woodland outside of the town. The Babbling Brook goes through Spellfire and into the woods, which contains many old oak trees. Selkie Falls is located nearby. Appeared in 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in Sinful Sundaes (2005) and in ‘Moonshyne’ by Jewel Adams in Spellfire Moons. • Spirits Tavern A lively, sometimes rowdy Old West-style pub, located on the outskirts of the town. It boasts a stage where local bands often play. Lorvena Mayhem is the owner. Appeared in 'Mistletoe & Mayhem' by Emery LaRue, in Spellfire Seasons (2005); 'Candy Kisses' by Emery LaRue in Spellfire Hearts (2006). • The Eighth Deadly Sin (aka The Eighth) Seedy bar owned by a demon. Gina found temporary work there. Appeared in 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). • Town Hall Located on one side of the Town Square/Spellfire Park, also close to the Library. Appeared in numerous Spellfire stories. • Trinkets Gift Shop New Age store built by Marion & Jeff Trinkets, and run by Katspell & Jeth Trinkets. Staff include: Takar; Devina; 201 •
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Chissie. It's located on the opposite side of the Town Square to Sinful Sundaes. It's a three-storey Gothic Western building with tall windows, tapestries on the walls, central displays and chairs for customers wishing to browse. It also contains the magic lab of Takor and Devina. Trinkets sells books (including Heat Spells, red-hot magical books containing sex spells), potions and lotions made by Electra Spellfire, occult items and clothing, as well as jewelry from Spirit Tredmane of Spirit Designs. Once a week on a Wednesday they host a witches' singles night. Appeared in 'Heart Spells' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006); 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Moons (2006); plus mentions in numerous Spellfire stories. Twisted Lane Residential street in Spellfire. The Haunted Hills Apartments can be found here, and it's easy walking distance to the town centre and Paraboolie's Pizza Place. Appeared in 'A Statue for All Seasons' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Dan/Danu’ell Whistler’s Farm Located on the outskirt’s of Spellfire’s town boundary and close to Zechariah’s Cabin. The farm land is barren, all life has been forced off the land from unknown dark forces. Appeared in Nymph Gardens & Elfen Moons by Jewel Adams, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest (2006) Wishes & Wafers Shop selling magical wafers that can cure ills and bring about the fruition of wishes. Owned by Kayne Niam, it's located next door to Candied Kisses. Appeared in 'Wishes & Wafers' by Emily LaRue in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Witches' Guild Located somewhere in the town centre. Appeared in 'Mummies & Marshmallows' by Jennifer Metz in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Zechariah's Cabin Isolated log cabin situated a quarter of a mile behind Selkie Falls, just within the town boundary. Built over a hundred years ago, it's the home of Zecheriah and his second wife 202
Spellfire Commemorative Heather. The land around the cabin is being developed into a research and medical facility to heal injured paranormals and normals cursed by evil magic. Appeared in 'Haunted Love' by Tamara James in Spellfire Hearts (2006).
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Agloolik Inuit guardian spirit of hunters. They are attracted to heat. Spellfire aglooliks: Al Agloolik stories: 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Aliens Creatures and humanoids from outer space sometimes pop down to Spellfire, where they're guaranteed a warm welcome. However, there are some galactic regulations concerning alien behaviour on Earth and towards its residents - one of these is that certain aliens are not allowed to date non-alien beings... Spellfire aliens: Teth. Alien stories: ‘Sexparilla Shakes & Spacemen’ by Mae Powers, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Core of Life An alien-being of darkness and light, shadows and life, stranded eons ago in the caverns beneath Spellfire. He waits for the one that will fulfill his life and make him whole. Appeared in ‘Shadows and Darkness’ by Mae Powers, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Demon There are many varieties of demon in Spellfire (a demvir) is a type of demon, for instance). Most practice malefic magic, but their activities can only take place if they've been issued with a special license from town mayor Perry Normil. Spellfire demons: Dina Diablo. Demon stories: ‘Sprinkles & Hot Hunks’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Demvir A demon shifter. Under the Changeling Moon (every third full moon in a month), demvirs enter a mating frenzy where they must have sex or suffer sexual and transformation withdrawal. They are also affected by a normal full moon. Demvirs are physically very powerful; they also have a chameleon ability, able to blend in with any surface they touch. Spellfire demvirs: Adam Spellfire; Malaci Spellfire. Demvir stories: 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in 204
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Sinful Sundaes (2005); 'Moonshyne' by Jewel Adams in Spellfire Moons (2006). Djinn Djinni are spirits who can take corporeal form. They often interact with humans through dreams, and they don't consider sex with humans as 'counting' as infidelity. Spellfire djinn: Asad, Habibeh. Djinn stories: 'Eid el-Fitr' by Ann Regentin, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Dryads These creatures from ancient Greek mythology embody the soul of a tree which is unique to them. They can take human corporeal form or may exist as a spirit. Spellfire dryads: Achlys. Dryad stories: ‘Fresh Fruit & Fate’ by Ann Regentin, in in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Appeared in Nymph Gardens & Elfen Moons by Jewel Adams, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest (2006) Elves Spellfire became temporary home to a group of Santa Claus' North Pole elves striking over pay and conditions. These are the cute, pint-sized creatures and not the Orlando Bloom type of elf. Their protest was dealt with by Nickolas Claus in 'Elves, Bells & Mistletoe' by Jennifer Metz, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Fae folk find it difficult to have secrets from vamperians. Elfen Warrior Lord There is a special breed of Elf that fight for Mother Nature to keep her lands, animals and creatures, plants and insects safe in her realm. Fierce, they will fight without stopping until evil is destroyed and the Mother and her realm are safe. Danu’ell Whistler has tried hard to forget the battles and death he fought and faced, but neither can he deny that he is one of the Mother’s Elfen warrior lords. Appeared in Nymph Gardens & Elfen Moons by Jewel Adams, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest (2006) Fairies (also: Faeries; Faer) The fairies of Spellfire have human form. They have delicate wings that they can sheath and hide away. They are often of mixed blood from centuries of intermarriage with other Fae creatures such as pixies, and are very attractive. They love to 205
Spellfire Commemorative cause mischief, although they are rarely malicious - they just like to have fun. They enjoy food, especially sweets, and love pretty things - from flowers to humans! Fairies have some elemental powers, depending on their age and abilities, and they also have the power of invisibility, although this may sometimes sap their energy. They can cast spells and make curses. During the summer, fairies go on heat and look for many sexual partners. Fairies are notoriously fickle and can have a small attention span. Lovers, beware - you'll have your work cut out for you if you take on a fairy as a mate! Many Spellfire fairies live in the Mystic Meadows, which is governed by a High Fairy. Feather currently holds this title. Types of fairy: There are many different types of fairy, each with their own unique power. There are elemental fairies such as rain fairies, who work with the Spellfire Fire Department; fire fairies such as Thunder. Then there are inspiration fairies (Dazzle Honeydew-Gentlepuff); insomnia fairies (Xerxes Vervain Samhianwise III); and the collective Semaphoros fairies, all of whom are female and who give directions to lost travellers on the summons 'Mappa mundi!' Tooth fairies can retire from their jobs but must give up their wands and wings. However, they continue to be addicted to sweet foods and get such an intense sugar-high it's as if they're drunk. They also have bad sugar-hangovers the next day. Moon faeries are a special breed of fairy that take their energy from the moon. If their energy falls below a certain level, they will disappear. Moon faeries can create Faer Sparks as a weapon in self-defence. Under a full moon, they can produce silver from their tears, although to do so weakens them terribly. Spellfire fairies: Kor, Fairy Belle, Shai; Xerxes Vervain Samhianwine III; Dazzle Honeydew-Gentlepuff; Moonshyne Holiday; Thunder; Lily; Feather; Taffy Trueheart; Falona; Winkle. Fairy stories: 'Fairies & Cherries' by Leigh Ellwood in Sinful Sundaes (2005); 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006); 'The Grand Design' by Melanie Gilbreath; 'Moonshyne' by Jewel Adams; 'Trouble Brews' by Mae 206
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Powers in Spellfire Moons (2006); ‘Wafers & Wishes’ by Emily LaRue; ‘Things & Hot Taffy’ by Leanne Strange; and ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Gen-witch See under: witch Ghosts The Spellfire ghosts are just like the humans they once were good, or evil. Some ghosts can become corporeal at certain times of the year, such as Halloween or Valentine's Day; some can be spelled to take human form for a short while, and some appear human all the time, such as Sam. The town even has an ex-ghost - Zechariah was placed under a curse for 110 years but has now been restored to his human form. Spellfire ghosts: Horrible Henry; Ella Welles; Jace Sawyer; Ishmaiah Hawkins; Sam; Synkor. Ghost stories: 'Twilight Shadows & Just Desserts' by Katrina Marlowe in Sinful Sundaes (2005); 'Haunted Love' by Tamara James in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Gnomes Spellfire gnomes: Kinard Goblins Female goblins are surly individuals. Male goblins are tough, rough & ready construction workers, often teamed with the Gremlins on Spellfire building projects. Spellfire goblins: Evilyn Grum. Goblin stories: Evilyn had a minor role in ‘Sprinkles & Hot Hunks’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Gremlins Tough, rough & ready construction workers, often teamed with the Goblins on Spellfire building projects. Spellfire gremlins: Gak. Gremlin stories: Gak has a minor role in ‘Sprinkles & Hot Hunks’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Grollim or Shadow People Unknown, they lived in the deep caverns underground, or in shadows around buildings. The Grollim guarded the abandoned hospital building, formerly known as the Labyrinthine Institution 207
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housing tuberculosis patients at the turn of the century. Good spirits aid the law enforcement, or magical creatures helping others, and some of the criminal spirits facilitated the darker elements of Spellfire. Appeared in ‘The Grollim’ by Bridghid Parkinson, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Mention in ‘Shadows and Darkness’ by Mae Powers, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Harpies Unlike the rapacious monsters of Classical mythology, Spellfire's own harpy is also half-human. Harpies are creatures of the air - they have powerful wings and can fly. Their wings are often folded out of sight, but they unfurl when the harpy is aroused. Spellfire harpies: Harpy Collins. Harpy stories: 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Immortals This is a special breed of humans, usually related by birth to one of the old pagan gods. Immortality can also be gained through breaking a curse or the intervention of a god, which usually takes the form of drinking a cup of ambrosia or other magical substance that grants immortality. Spellfire immortals: Alex Westin; Kiran Crawford; Cosmina del Costa; Cade Valeray; Demetrius. Immortals stories: 'Clothes Minded' by Karen Rose; and 'In the Hot Zone' by C D Reese, in Spellfire Moons (2006); ‘Fresh Fruit & Fate’ by Ann Regentin, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Invisible Men & Women Spellfire has a small group of Invisible Men who form The Invisible Man League. They meet every second Friday evening of the month at Sinful Sundaes for drinks and a snack. There's also the Invisible Man Quartet, who perform in Spellfire Park for community occasions. Some invisible people can become visible and invisible at will, such as Phyllis Phantasmas. Spellfire invisibles: Phyllis Phantasmas. Appeared in 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange; 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006); ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). 208
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Mummies From the land of the pharaohs to Spellfire, Texas, there's plenty of mummies shambling around the town. While many are reanimated, they're still sporting the natron-and-bandages look that is just so Nineteenth Dynasty! Spellfire mummies: Shallab; Ramses; Shepenwepet; Nitocris. Mummy stories: Nitocris appears in ‘Tarot & Toasted Almonds’ by Anne Leland, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Shepenwepet has a minor role in 'Toppings & Temptations' by Ann Regentin in Sinful Sundaes (2005). Munchkins Little creatures from somewhere over the rainbow. Spellfire Munchkins: Myrtha. Munchkin stories: ‘Things & Hot Taffy’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Nymphs Elemental creatures of sea, wood and river. Spellfire nymphs: Ianeria and Bess Green Nymph stories: Ianeria has a very minor role in 'Haunted Love' by Tamara James, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Bess Green is one of the main characters Nymph Gardens & Elfen Moons by Jewel Adams, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest (2006) Ogres Large, ferocious creatures, usually foul-tempered. Can be sexually-repressed and a bit perverse. Spellfire ogres: Otto Ogring. Ogre stories: ‘Things & Hot Taffy’ by Leanne Strange, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Pixies Naughty, mischief-making creatures, closely related to fairies. Spellfire pixies: Peter. Pixie stories: Peter has a minor role in 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Selkies Water-loving paranormals who transform into creatures resembling seals when they're immersed in water. Selkies mate for life. Spellfire selkies: Garland Mayhem, Lorvena Mayhem, Mistletoe. Selkie stories: 'Mistletoe & Mayhem' by Emery LaRue, in Spellfire Seasons (2005). Sorcerers/Sorceresses 209
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Sorcerers are sometimes element-based, such as fire (Roald Rumsfeld) or air (Derek Spellfire); they also have the ability to control the elements, to cast powerful spells, to become invisible, and to shape-shift. Spellfire sorcerors: Electra Spellfire; Derek Spellfire; Roald Rumsfeld; Morgan LeHavoc; Damien Spellfire. Sorceror stories: 'Strawberry Veinilla & Vamperians' by Mae Powers in Sinful Sundaes (2005);; 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange; 'Tricks of Love' by Mae Powers in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Shifters Shifters often appear human, but will shift into their animal or demon form when situations demand. These can include reaction to the full moon, to mating season, or if a partner is in danger. Some shifters will change in order to seek out a mate. Spellfire shifters: Jimmy; Blaze Draconis. Shifter stories: Jimmy plays a minor role in 'Twilight Shadows & Just Desserts' by Katrina Marlowe in Sinful Sundaes (2005); Blaze Draconis appears in 'Drifting Desires' by Leanne Strange in Spellfire Hearts (2006). Trolls Tough, rough & ready construction workers, often teamed with Goblins and Gremlins on Spellfire building projects. The Trolls have a Builders' Association: their office is on the Town Square. Vamperian Vamperians are the offspring of the union between a vampire and a witch. They don't necessarily need blood to satisfy them, but it does give them a craving for other things - such as ice cream. Vamperians can walk during the day, but they have to wear special sunglasses to stop the light from getting to their eyes. When bonding with their life partner, vamperians emply a technique known as 'deep-fanging', which can prolong the sexual act and heighten pleasure. Spellfire vamperians: Alexander 'Lexi' Veldus Ruveaux. (Deputy) 318. Vamperian stories: 'Strawberry Veinilla & Vamperians' by Mae Powers, in Sinful Sundaes (2005). ‘The Grollim’ by Bridghid Parkinson, in The Spellfire Commemorative Digest Vampires 210
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Vampires need blood in order to survive, and so Matthias Gregory has a standing order with a blood bank to supply his needs. He was able to father a child: not all vamps are sterile! Spellfire vampires: Matthias Gregory. Vampire stories: 'High Chairs & High Stakes' by Jenna Leigh, in Spellfire Moons (2006). Werewolves Generally, werewolves like to stay in a pack around their Alpha, and they live in the outdoors or on the edge of town. However, there are some more sociable town werewolves, such as Mr. Nasterian, and also lone wolves who prefer their own company. Werewolves mate for life. Just before they change shape from human into wolf, they may crave food and sex. Spellfire werewolves: The Blackwolf family: Gabe, Jonathan, Rebecca & Gideon; Spirit Tredmane; Mr. Nasterian; Chase and Jason MacGregor; Werner Dryden. Werewolf stories: 'Spirit's Bells' by Tamara James, in Spellfire Seasons (2005); ‘Tarot & Toasted Almonds’ by Anne Leland; and ‘Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem’ by Leigh Ellwood, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006). Witches & Wizards The abilities of witches and wizards depends very much on the individual - how pure the magic is within them, and how long they've trained at their art. Some witches are gifted naturals; others must work hard at it. A few of the skills a witch or wizard may possess include: trans-shifting (the ability to vanish from one place and reappear in another); quick lightning; flying; elemental control; empath powers; healing powers. Types of witch: The ability to cast spells appears to be genetic. Therefore, intermarriage between paranormals has created a range of creatures with this gene. They include: gen-witches (half genie, half witch - Ereus; Devina); witchlings (half human, half witch - Jaleena Trinkets); halfling witch (half witch, half fairy - Marion Trinkets), and healers (Heather). The Witch Board/The Witches' Council are a regulatory body who rule on paranormal activity within Spellfire. Residents who abuse their power can be 'ex-spelled', banished, or even have their powers revoked for a period of time. 211
Spellfire Commemorative Members of the board include: Frightful Frieda; Candy Piper; Mattie Matlock. Spellfire witches: Frightful Frieda Faraday-Farthington; Lillia West; Candy Piper; Tristine Havoc; Ereus; Jaleena Trinkets; Takor; Devina; Erin Mackenzie; Aurora Gregory; Jeffery Rafe Trinkets; Marion McFae-Trinkets; Katspell Calloway-Trinkets; Jeth Trinkets; Amy Pettibone; Shonda Lamont. Witch stories: 'Witches & Walnuts' by Anne Leland; 'Shifters & Hot Fudge' by Leanne Strange in Sinful Sundaes (2005); 'A Statue for All Seasons' by Mae Powers, in Spellfire Seasons (2005); 'Haunted Love' by Tamara James in Spellfire Hearts (2006); 'Trouble Brews' by Mae Powers; 'The Grand Design' by Melanie Gilbreath, and 'High Chairs & High Stakes' by Jenna Leigh, in Spellfire Moons (2006); ‘Sexparilla Shakes & Spacemen’ by Mae Powers, in Sinful Sundaes 2: Second Servings (2006).
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Coming soon from www.midnightshowcase.com Digests Spellfire Heroes Spellfire Seasons A Spellfire Evening Jaded Beasts V & VI Blue Noir I Vamptations ******** Novels The Aldairian Ecstasy 2: Forbidden Hearts By Mae Powers Moondock by Jewel Adams ******** Romps Pinky Swear, by Jewel Adams Soul Jar, by Olivia Lorenz Never Say Die, by Anna Fallon
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