When Water Burns | ONC 2025

As water is depleted for its magic, a vigilante uses a cold heiress to infiltrate high society and steal their water before the world--and her family--burns.

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After washing up in the desert, nearly dead and with no memories, twenty-something-year-old Lana had a feeling she was involved in something dangerous. "Vigilantes targeting the wealthy" fits the bill, especially when the main perpetrator is still at large. Not that she would blame her past self, for the rich are intent on destroying the world, draining water of its magic and leaving behind its toxic remains.

So Lana's surprised to learn she's the bodyguard for one such wealthy heiress.

Virre Averten lives up to her fearsome reputation, despite only recently inheriting her fortune at twenty-three. Harsh and cold-hearted, Virre hoards water's magic just as much as her family's trade secrets, and she throws Lana back into her employment to protect them all. Lana has no idea how she tolerated the woman, but she's certain it was for a good reason. For instance, gaining access to the most exclusive events in the city.

Thanks to each extravagant gala and lavish feast, Lana dissolves not only the facade of the wealthy, but that of Virre as well. Except she's not the only one fishing for secrets. With their enemies closing in and the world's magic running dry, the women must work together to reveal the truth before they, and all the water, burn for good.

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INCLUDES
✓ Sapphic bodyguard-heiress romance
✓ Magical fight scenes
✓ Environmentalism and sociopolitical commentary
✓ Secret spy stuff

ONC 2025 ENTRY
Prompts: 5 (main), 13, 27, 31, 102, 124, 125, 130
Word Count: +39k (when completed)
Genres: High Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Romance

★ This story is only available on Wattpad by @laurendoubleu.
★ Updates every Wednesday and Sunday!