The sound of Belinda’s heart beating was like a drum pounding out a rhythm made for dancing. She closed her eyes for only a second, letting the sound wash over her. It crept down past her spine and settled into her hips and she swayed ever so slightly. She just imagined what it would feel like to rip into Belinda’s throat and drain her on the spot, the hot blood gushing down her front before the elemental had any idea what had happened. The thought was so tempting, but it had been many years since she’d manipulated an elemental so fully. Did Belinda have the capability of harnessing her abilities and becoming a master? Or even then, could she handle the transformation of becoming a guardian? Oh, Lida’s thoughts were positively giddy at the prospect of siring someone who could potentially lose every ounce of sanity they possessed.
And of course, there was the confirmation that she had picked someone perfect. Belinda was so enraptured with everything she had to say and the hint that there might be even more that could be done for Earth seemed to hypnotize her. She tried to keep her satisfaction from showing on her face, though it proved very difficult. “Why, yes,” she answered. “Being chosen is indeed a great honor.” Once they drew up to the area where Lida had been working, she knelt back down to the ground. Her arms slipped from Belinda’s shoulders and traced down her arm, her fingers latching Belinda’s. The slightest pull urged the human down to her knees.
“You must be tested, of course. Devotion is key, but you must also be strong. You must become a Master elemental before you can become Earth’s Guardian.” She blinked, but watched Belinda carefully. “I must warn you, love. The sacrifice is very great indeed. It can mean never being in touch with your family ever again, even your closest friends might not understand. If you can stomach the prospect of losing them to become the strongest defense for Earth, then you just might be a candidate.” Her fingers still laced with Belinda’s, she brought their hands forward and pushed their fingers into the soil. “Will you show me what you can do?”