The Last Phoenix Daughter and Kindled Hope

Chapter 2 Jaynaria

Chapter 2 Jaynaria

I had always heard about my Mother's sister.

I knew she had died because of what she was. What I am. A Phoenix. One of the most powerful magic users. A fire user. A woman fire user.

I knew that Phoenixes were suppose to be traitors and died out.

I knew Aunt had smuggled out my mother while she was pregnant with me.

Mother had always told me to be proud to have my gifts but keep them quiet. If anyone knew, I would be immediately be reported to local authorities, then to the Dragon Varian.

Mother is terrified of him. She always told me he was a black-hearted charming handsome man. A cruel beauty. A dangerous man. Never to trust Varian.

Mother never told me Aunt's real name. She said it was for safety reasons. Apparently if I was known as Aunt's niece, Mother and I would be killed.

"Who would have thought that?" I had asked Mother sardonically. Mother had just glared. I love sarcasm. Maybe just a bit.

The village was small, in a forset on the mountain. Our little cottage was farthest out from the village, Caimo.

I had never know my father. All I knew was that he is a Dragon. All that I know. No name, description, nothing.

My mother walked into the barn, jolting me out of my thoughts. "Why are you sitting around when there is still work to be done?" Mother exclaimed.

I inwardly wince. Shit. Here comes the lecture. She watched me get up, a sheepish expression on my face.

"You were thinking about your Aunt again weren't you?" she asked knowly.

I couldn't help it. I glanced at her in surprise. Normally Mother lectured me about doing my part at home.

We had one cottage, and a small barn with three chickens, Marylyn the cow, and our two horses, Carean, and Mariane. Oh, and our watch dog, Luiu.

"Yeah... How did you know?"

Mother smiled. "You get this look on your face sweetie. How old are you Jay?"

The question surprised me. "I'll be 17 at the end of this week. Why?"

Mother gazed at me. "I'll tell you on your birthday honey. Alright?"

I nodded. What is going on Mother? What is so important?

Mother began leaving the barn. "Finish your work in the barn Jay. You still need to weed the garden and cook supper!" She called over her shoulder.

I sighed, then set about to my work. I collected eggs from our chickens, milked Marylyn, feed them all and brushed Carean and Mariane. I then cleaned the barn and gave them fresh straw. After finishing the barn chores, I proceed to weed our garden. Just herbs and the occasional flower. After I couldn't find anymore weeds, I trudged to the cottage. I went to our fireplace. Some wood was already placed in it. I glanced around, making sure I wasn't being watched then focused on the wood. It lite quickly and beautifully. I checked again. No one but Luiu.

I assembled a stew and some dough for biscuits. As I worked, I wondered what Mother was planning on telling me on my birthday. What could be so important and secretive that I had to know when I was 17, and why?