Signs of a Storm

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter 22: Fire Wards And Fire Lords

“When will we get there?” I complained.

My adoptive mother and I had been traveling in the car for over a half hour, and the road had become a dirt path, the trees seemed to be multiplying. And yet we still traveled deeper into the expanse of literally tree upon tree.

“Oh, hush. Do you know how long I waited to earn a response from you when you disappeared?” She had me there. “I think you can hold off for another ten minutes.” I didn’t look over at her in the driver’s seat, but I didn’t need to; I knew she rolled her eyes. But how could you blame me? I had ADHD. I think you can guess how many road trips we ever went on.

(In case you were wondering, the correct answer would be zero.)

“Fine.” I mumbled.

Just then a sparkle caught my attention in the corner of my eye. I quickly looked out the window to see what it was. There was nothing there. But I swore that I had seen something. That was strange. But it made me wonder: where was Zyra actually taking me? We were far from any regular road. And any town for that matter.

“What kind of farmer’s market are we going to? This is nowhere near any farm I know of.” I asked and crossed my arms.

“Before you came down, I told Poseidon your plans, he told me to give you a special charm. I read in my books the ingredients I needed. It says they’re here at this place. That’s all I know.” She shrugged her shoulders.

“Is being a sorceress dangerous? And if this gets out of hand, can you protect yourself?” I wanted to make sure we weren’t just driving straight into some kind of trap for demigods and ingredient-seekers. Like a monster Mcdonald’s. Only you’re the fast food. And I mean literally: fast. They catch you if you’re slow enough.

“Yes, I am fully capable of not dying. If I can fend off a goddess, I think I could defeat a monster or two. It’s extremely dangerous to be a sorceress in the mortal world. If you’re stupid and don’t try to conceal it. That’s how a few ones I knew died. They got so caught up in the power, that they used it for money. Look what it earned them.” She snorted.

“Who taught you?” I asked. A dark look crossed her face. She hesitated before answering me. “I, myself am not the age I appear to be. Do you know how old I am?” She asked me in a low voice, not fully answering my question.

“You’re 41.” I stated.

“Wrong. I am over one thousand years old, my dear. I was trained and an apprentice to Circe herself.” I stared in complete shock.

“No way.” I gaped, “But how-?” I trailed off.

“I am 41 years old in this lifetime.” Zyra explained. “But I have lived over seven lifetimes on Circe’s island. She taught me everything I know. From charms to spells, you name it: she taught me. But then one day I disrespected her. I thought I could duel her. She said if I lost, I’d die in shame. She cheated to win, and Hermes took pity on me.” I wanted her to continue. This was such a strange feeling to think you knew everything about everyone, but you don’t.