The Winter Phoenix (WAYHAUGHT)

The cabin

The realm:

On the day Waverly turned eighteen she entered the cavernous throne room expecting Nicole to ask her the one important question which would bind them together. Instead, Nicole presented her with a new horse, a fine horse admittedly, and a beautiful necklace made from pearls she herself collected from the sea bed. Other girls, envious of Waverly giggled among themselves, gossiping she might not be the chosen one after all, hinting Nicole would never consider a fire breather as a serious consort.

Nicole was fully aware not asking Waverly on this day, in front of everyone, would send ripples through the court. That was of little concern to her, wanting to choose her own moment to ask, away from prying eyes, and flapping tongues. There had been discussions with her parents as to the suitability of her chosen consort, both agreeing Waverly would make a perfect companion, confident enough in herself not to be swayed by those who frequented court.

As a fire breather she brought a new element into the fold of powers available to those who dwelled in the glades. Waverly's people had had to flee Bulshar's advance when he took over their settlements, seeking sanctuary with Nicole's tribe, the largest and most powerful in the realm.

Many were not happy when the fire breathers arrived, complaining their resources would be stretched, that jobs would be stolen, that they might bring spies into their midst. The same list of fears presented each time a new group sought safety, Nicole's parents reassuring their people this latest influx would be of benefit. And, it was. The fire breathers were useful, their superior skills in metalwork enabling Nicole's people to forge better weapons, swords that were sharper and lighter than any they could have made themselves.

Nicole was in the training yard, attempting to outmaneuvre Wynonna who was taking great pleasure in repeatedly scorching the seat of her opponent's pants. "Enough," Nicole yelled, as another flame hit her ass. "Ouch, stop, stop. Give me a moment to shift."

"An enemy will not give you that luxury," Wynonna yelled back. "Run little hare, or be cooked for supper."

"I swear I will kill you. Stop. Stop. Ouch. Spirit of the kite."

Waverly watched as Nicole transformed into the bird, her clothes falling away as she soared high above to avoid her sister's heated breath. From the first time she'd witnessed Nicole shapeshift into a wolf, she now accepted it as part of her nature, Nicole revealing her many forms as they grew closer. She longed to be like her, to soar into the vastness of the sky, to dive into the depths of the sea, to run through the midnight forest without fear.

Nicole's aim was perfect, pooping on Wynonna's head, sending her into a rage. "I will roast your tiny speckled ass for that, you hear. Dare you to fly closer so I can ring your stupid little neck."

Waverly held out her hand, Nicole coming to rest on her outstretched fingers. She didn't know which form Nicole took she loved more. Perhaps the red kite, with its magnificent feathering, and majestic head. Even in this form, Nicole was astute enough to use Waverly as her protector against Wynonna, waiting for her to storm off. "You know, if you push Wyn too far she'll roast your backside in whatever form you take."

Nicole flew off towards the barracks.

Waverly plonked herself on a wooden bench. "You'll deserve it," she called after, "for what you did to her."

Nicole returned with the seat of her pants still smoking, her bare ass showing. "Shall we."

Waverly couldn't help but laugh as they walked towards the stables, the smell of singed cloth filling the air. "Where are we going?"

"You'll see. I've found a spot where we won't be disturbed."

Waverly's eyes darkened. "But, I thought we had to commit to each other before we could, you know..."