Brightflame Accension (Book 1) Read Free Page B

quick and precise. In his current condition, Will’s movements were swift and effortless. The wind was deflected by the shovelhead. Red sparks erupted as the wind struck the shovel.
    Vaguely, Will heard his father shouting with glee, but Will’s attention was focused elsewhere. Taking confident strides towards his target, Will blocked every wind strike, creating a shower of sparks until he was within striking distance of Harold. The fat man huffed and puffed, struggling to find enough energy to continue his magical barrage.
    Will raised the shovel and felt it tugged out of his hands. He turned angrily. Matthew smiled at him. His red eyes twinkled at Will. Matthew had wrenched the shovel away, and Will caught the reflection of his own eyes in his father’s. They too burned red like fiery coals.
    Will shook his head to clear it of the angry presence. The beast inside retreated without protest.
    “Well done, William,” Matthew said, a pleased grin stretching wide across his face. He and Harold left Will alone and bewildered in the oncoming darkness. Walking over to the small pond, Will looked at his reflection. Small ripples distorted his face, but his eyes were clearly blue.
    I would have killed him. What monster is this that can take control so easily? He sat alone until the air chilled him and the sun was low. When the breeze picked up, Will walked inside to the warmth of the fire.
    Harold and Matthew sat by the crackling hearth, discussing recent changes in Imperial policy and the various comings and goings of far-off people in far-off cities. Elizabeth was readying her evening tea. Tired and disturbed, Will sat down at the table with her. His fingers traced the knots in the wood.
    “Will, you felt a power in your mind during that test, correct?” Harold asked.
    “Yes, I did. Though, if Father hadn’t stopped me I don’t know if I could have controlled it. It felt as if it wasn’t me fighting, but something else,” Will replied. “Am I possessed?”
    Matthew burst into laughter at that, and Elizabeth patted Will’s arm, muttering, “No, I shouldn’t think so, darling.” She looked concerned and cast a disapproving glance at her husband’s amused grin.
    “What you felt is uncommon, but you are of uncommon stock. It is good that you can feel that power,” Harold said. “For all these years, when Matthew did not send word of your progress, I grew nervous. I see now that my fears were unfounded; you are your father’s son after all.” Harold’s great belly jiggled merrily and his cheeks reddened with mirth.
    “What is to happen now?” Will asked.
    “The question of an emberling,” Matthew smiled kindly. “A seasoned soldier knows that it is best to fight to the bitter end and let the world decide what happens next. The path before you will open up soon enough. Will, if only you knew what wonders you can perform in the heat of the moment-”
    Elizabeth interjected, “It is better, safer, Will, if you do not delve further into these matters today. There has been too much magic flowing in the air this day. If any who are attuned to such things are near, they are bound to notice and flock to this house.” Elizabeth shot her impassioned husband a dark look. “Harold, do you have the information you needed?”
    “Yes, and more, my lady. I believe he will do very well at the Academy. This test, for a lad like young William, is more of a formality than a necessity. His acceptance is essentially guaranteed,” Harold paused, thoughtfully. “Perhaps, Matthew should teach him something of his potential while he remains here at home. At the Academy, I’m afraid he may lack the proper guidance one with his, ummm, ability may require.”
    If looks could kill, Elizabeth might have struck down Harold right there and then, but instead she merely nodded briskly, “Thank you, Harold, but I’m sure the Academy will not fail him.”
    “Only a suggestion, my lady,” Harold said warily, knowing that he tread on