The Last Phoenix Daughter and Kindled Hope

Chapter 21 Varian

Chapter 21 Varian

Czarina's gorgeous eyes held mine in a death glare. If looks could kill, I would be an interesting corpse.

She had a snarl on her face and a low growl came from her throat. Czarina was not happy to see me.

"Where is she?"

Czarina didn't even flinch. She just glared defiantly.

"Where is the Phoenix?"

Again, silence.

My patience ran thin. I stepped forward and let my instincts take over.

A loud and meaty smack filled the room. Her check was red and bruised. Her glare did not stop, only intensified.

Frustrated with Czarina, I turned and stormed out of her cell.

"No food or water until you talk my dear." I hissed over my shoulder.

Pulling a guard along with me, I stopped outside of the holding block.

"No funny business. She is cleverer than she looks. Do not respond to her unless it is to summon me. And that has to be begging. Do not keep your eye off of her. I want her safeguard. The fourth day, if she stays stubborn, give her water. But with a potion I'll send to you. She'll talk in no time. You have your orders."

I nodded to him and walked out.

Once in the hall, I let my body pilot me to my office.

My thoughts wandered to Czarina.

I still can't believe she hid from me that long. Why? Well partly for her daughter, I suspect. But there was always more than one reason. Always for Czarina. And the Phoenix, or Jaynaria. What was she like? Did she truly understand how important she was? Did she know how to use her gifts? And most importantly, was I her father? These thoughts could make one's head spin. I looked up, taking a break from that paradox.

I blinked in surprise. Before me was my office door.

A strange feeling, familiar and powerful radiated from behind my door.

My brow furrowed in thought. A smirk made itself known on my mouth, twisting my lips.

I opened the door.