Page 27 of A Phoenix Reborn at Christmas

Percival still didn’t really understand what that meant.

“Ah… I think you mentioned family,” Leo said.

Percival perked up. “Brothers, sisters, parents?”

Leo shook his head. “Sorry, you just mentioned a family.”

Percival’s shoulders drooped. “Oh.”

“But I think they’re wealthy. I’m sure your family must be looking for you. And they’ll take care of you when they find you.”

Percival nodded.But where are they now?

“And you like pies!” Leo blurted. “I make savoury pies in the bakery, a different one each day. I made mushroom and leek, chicken pot pie, meat pie, shepherd’s pie, and so on. You’ve been ordering them.”

“I must like these pies a lot, then.”

“I think so.” Leo gave him a smile.

Percival smiled back. “I like pies.” It wasn’t much. But in a world where he knew nothing about himself, it was something. “My name is Percival Everflame. I am a phoenix. I like pies.”

“It’s a good start.” Leo chuckled.

Percival smiled. For now, that would have to do.

Chapter

Twelve

“Are you sure you aren’t cold?” Leo asked as they made their way up the stairs leading to his family’s apartment above the bakery.

The raven walked along the banister, making soft clicking noises. Leo opened the door and entered the apartment.

“I’m not cold. But I suppose that’s because I’m a phoenix.” Percival followed him in.

Leo let out a sigh of relief to be inside. He removed his coat and boots and lit a candle. Although, they barely needed it, since Percival literally radiated light.

And warmth, Leo realised. He was warmer when he stood beside Percival. Then he noticed the candle flame seemed to lean towards Percival, as if reaching for him.

Percival looked around the space.

Leo tensed, expecting some criticism of the cramped room, old furniture, over-the-top Christmas decorations, or some such nonsense. But Percival just looked around with open curiosity.

The raven flew into the apartment. But she flapped her wings rapidly. She crashed into the floor. She righted herself, ruffling her feathers. The left wing didn’t sit flat.

Leo frowned as he shut the door. He had no idea how to fix a raven’s injured wing. He looked to Percival. Nor did Leo know what to do with a naked phoenix who had no memories. But he could at least look after them and ensure they were safe, watered, and well fed.

Percival’s stomach grumbled. He placed a hand on his stomach, eyes going wide in shock.

Leo’s eyes drifted down Percival’s naked form. Then he looked away.

Do not ogle the phoenix who has lost his memory and is in your care!

“Hungry?” Leo asked.

“Ah.” Percival nodded. “Yes. I seem to be.”

“I suppose being reborn takes a lot of energy.” At least Leo knew how to feed those who were hungry. That was the speciality of hearth and kitchen witches. “Take a seat.” Leo gestured to the chairs before the fireplace. Although, no fire currently burned.