The Light of Roria

Chapter Thirteen

"Here, let's try this," Elijah said.

Elijah had taken a plate from the kitchen counter and placed it strategically atop our small grill so that it leaned against the tall wooden fence in our backyard.

"I want you to imagine that same blade you used in the elevator. The one you made appear from your fairy dust. As the picture becomes clear in your mind, allow divinity to work through you and toss the blade toward this object."

For a moment, I stared intensely at the plate and envisioned the blade, just like he said. But my curiosity had me turning to Elijah in question.

"Why do we have different gifts?" I started out. "Why do humans wield swords and fairies use their pixie dust? Is divinity different for every culture?"

"I suppose divinity chooses grace gifts in accordance with culture, finding value in what each individual has to offer. For example, a sword has always been a way for humankind to show their strength. We have always had a gift of creating the mightiest of weapons. As such, divinity uses our faith in our greatest achievement to wield the power within.

"For fairies, it is said that your skin bears the mark of your greatest strength. Hope. Their hope for all creation grants them the ability to also speak to animals, for they care deeply for even the smallest of creatures. I have heard that in their own land, even the water speaks to their people."

Wearing a sincere expression, he paused for a moment and pointed toward me as he spoke. "This would explain the bond Watson has for you and you for him." He paused before adding, "Though it's possible there is another reason. I am still considering it."

His answers only produced more questions. I tilted my head and narrowed my gaze. "I know for a fact I've never had a conversation with Watson." I stopped, knowing that my statement wasn't entirely true. "OK, let me clarify, I may occasionally speak to my dog, but it's not like he speaks back or I can understand him."

He laughed. "Ah, but, Princess, you do indeed speak fluent canine."

Staci huffed, "Of course she would speak dog. I mean, might as well. She always smells like one and gets her clothes covered in Watson's hair."

I turned to Staci, sticking out my tongue. "Do not," I retorted.

"Do too," Staci shot back, Elijah shook his head, ignoring our antics. "Now, may we begin?"

"Well, actually, I have one more question."

His hands went on his hips. I could see he was getting eager to begin training but held his tongue.

"Earlier you said that relics are what open portals. Won't I need one of those things? Because I'm pretty sure I don't have one."

"Relics are small and usually made of stone or crystal. The item is either passed down or revealed whe the user has the most need for it. If you do not know of its whereabouts, we will find it. But to do so, you must be open to divinity's instruction, which comes from training your heart, mind, and body." Elijah emphasized his final words.

Before I had the chance to consider his explanation, the sound of a car pulling into our driveway grabbed each of our attentions, even Watson began to stir.

I glanced at Elijah and Staci, and the two followed me inside the house, just in time for the doorbell to ring.

"I'll get it," Staci replied, heading for the door.

As soon as Elijah and I reached the living room window, we could see it was Jake's truck; Elijah's tension lessened as he put away his sword.

"Hey." Jake's voice was soft when his eyes met mine, but quickly looked away, staring at everything but us.