Forging Magic Steel | Oliver & Cora & Mathias

“That’s fine.” Cora hummed, swiping the bowl away back into the kitchen. She couldn’t help but flush guiltily when Oliver spoke, not intending to exclude him. “Just friends,” Cora replied breezily, before Mathias had a chance to speak. “Actually, Oliver, you can grind up the herbs? I have a food processor, or an old mortar if you’re feeling nostalgic.” Either one did the trick just fine, the former being faster. Cora enjoyed using the pestle, however. Magic was about physical work just as much as it was mental.

Forging Magic Steel | Oliver & Cora & Mathias

“Exactly what I was thinking, Oliver.” Cora nodded to the warlock. She didn’t exactly agree with his use of the word curse, choosing to believe this act was penance. Too each their own, however. The witch squared her shoulders before padding into the kitchen and ducking into a cabinet. After some rustling, she produced a large glass mixing bowl, perfect for what they needed. Returning, she stopped in front of Mathias, bowl held out almost like an offering. “If you’d be so kind, mon couer.” Cora’s eyes held his, and she smiled softly. It was interesting to see this side of Mathias, one she hadn’t uncovered yet. Cora felt a near overwhelming urge to kiss him in that moment, but didn’t feel proper in front of Oliver. 

Forging Magic Steel | Oliver & Cora & Mathias

“Ooooh, kinky.” Cora couldn’t help winking at Mathias, before watching him walk a short distance away. Turning back to focus on the real matter at hand, she listened to Oliver dutifully, nodding along with his words. He seemed to know a great deal, and she was eager to learn. Maybe after all this they could get together to show each other some tricks. Cora certainly had a few up her sleeve. “That’s good, but I think adding some vampire blood to the herbs would help, too. You said this vampire was related to you, right?” She tossed her head over her shoulder to glance at Mathias. “If we have the blood of a relative, it might make it stronger.” Sure, she was spitballing, but her gut instinct told her it would be a smart move.

Forging Magic Steel | Oliver & Cora & Mathias

Cora’s heart softened for Mathias. This went beyond a simple member of his nomadic tribe or whatever it was he lead. The tone is his voice made that obvious enough. Leaving the rest of her many questions for later, she nodded once, sharply. “I’ll mark you, if you like. Give you a pretty flower tattoo?” Cora teased, trying to bring some light into the conversation. Her eyes brightened as Oliver explained exactly what she was thinking, grateful they were on the same wavelength. “Yes, perfect. I wasn’t sure exactly what to have on hand, but I’ve got some fresh vervain, myrrh, and yarrow. Among some other dried herbs.” She liked to keep well stocked in herbs, but having never tried a spell of this nature, it would be nice to have Oliver’s input, especially since his magic was so grounded in healing. Cora definitely wouldn’t have attempted this on her own.

Forging Magic Steel | Oliver & Cora & Mathias

“A healer, that’s impressive.” Cora remarked, nodding in approval. With that, the plan seemed more secure. Having a healer definitely lessened the risk of someone being seriously injured, herself included. “But can you negate healing?” It’d be useful if he could, knowing she’d have less to focus on, but Cora would have to do what was necessary. When Oliver mentioned branding, she shook her head. “No, he’s right. It’s a good idea. Painful, but if Mathias is willing, then it should be done to prove the efficacy of the weapon.” She turned to Mathias then, offering him a smile. “You know at some point you’re going to have to tell me what this vampire did to warrant such a thing.” Cora refrained from telling him that death was much simpler, knowing there had to be a reason, and she wasn’t going to pry. For now, anyways.

Date Night | Cora & Mathias

The closeness wasn’t enough to abate her fear, but it certainly helped. Cora lifted his arm to place it around her shoulders, tucking herself into his side as tightly as she could, face burrowed in his chest. She felt guilty for not enjoying what he had planned, but it couldn’t be helped at this point. Instead she focused on breathing slowly, inhaling his calming scent. At this point Cora just hoped whatever came after the chopper ride was more her pace. Letting out a soft sigh against his chest, she ran her hand over Mathias’ torso, letting her attention drift. As long as she kept calm enough, Cora wouldn’t have to worry about her magic running haywire.

Unfortunately for her, the ride was a rather long one to their final destination at a cabin all the way up in Livingston Manor, NY. By car it was about a 2 hour drive considering all the traffic, but by helicopter it was about 45 minutes which probably seemed like a lot for a woman terrified of heights. They were strapped in pretty well, which was probably best for Cora, but Mathias had no such fear. With ease he released each clasp and pushed the straps off his shoulders.He turned his body so that he faced her, and leaned in to press a kiss against her forehead. “How can I help you forget where we are?” he asked, placing a hand on her leg again as he figured touch was a small comfort for her. 

Her eyes opened briefly to watch him undo his seatbelt, angling towards her. Appreciation washed over Cora and she pressed herself even more fully against him, content with the view of his frame and nothing else. Thankfully the pilot knew what he was doing, and there was minimal jostling. Her hands snaked around his waist, holding him as close as she possibly could. “I don’t know.” Cora answered truthfully, having never experienced her worst fear in full force. Honestly, she was just relieved she didn’t throw up or accidentally set something on fire. Because that would make the ride so much more exciting. Mathias probably thought less of her due to her silly fear, but it was beyond her control.

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