The Elements of Romance: How Magic Shapes Love in the Pyromage Series

Commissioned Artwork created by Shi Ying Loh

Nature Awakens! 

❁​ Spring has arrived! ❁

During my walks, the trees have been barren and I was getting a little worried there for a bit thinking the trees might not come back! That is, until I saw the budding green on the oaks this week! On my walks I monitor the property, clear out any debris that hinders our time on the trails, and note any overgrowth that needs to be cut down. 

Out on the edge of the property, where there's no electricity or phone signal, out in nature, I've been thinking a lot about how elemental magic shapes the relationships in my stories.

While Pyromage 2 is with my editor (exciting times!), I wanted to share some insights into how different magical abilities influence romance in the pyromage universe.

Fire and Passion: Zeroh's Journey in the Pyromage series

Fire magic isn't just about creating flames – it's about transformation and passion. When Zeroh discovers his abilities, it's not just his magical powers that ignite, but his capacity for deep emotional connections. Fire wielders often struggle with control, making their romantic relationships particularly intense and transformative. We see this in Zeroh's memories during his first time and the tragic end of his village. 

It's not specifically talked about, but it becomes clear that Zeroh's first attempt at amorous relations ended in the death of the people who cared for him. "Don't make a Pydragon happy" is a euphuism and the sole incident that shaped Zeroh's self-loathing.  

The next bucket would send me unconscious. I doubt I’d wake up from one more bucket of punishing torment. Thoughts climbed into my mind, trying to separate from the agony. Unfortunately, the pain of a lifetime was my company. The first memory of not being normal sat next to me on my bench of hurt. That bench held all the memories of a single incident that destroyed my life. His name was Vavar.

​Water and Emotion: Understanding Eldyn's Water magic

Eldyn's "Vesi" or Water Element flows with emotional currents. Water wielders tend to be more intuitive about feelings, both their own and others'. This makes for complex romantic relationships where understanding and emotional depth play crucial roles.

This is incredibly important as he navigates both Zeroh and Kuval. 

Eldyn's emotional intelligence is displayed in his gentle approach to Zeroh's fierce passion, often cooling his temper even as events (and, let's face it, Kuval himself) stirs Zeroh up. Eldyn is thoughtful, wise, and doesn't react to jabs with anger but levity and diplomatic calculation. 

Being by Zeroh’s side brought out my courage and fear. Fear to lose him and courage to fight for him. At that moment, Zeroh looked broken. Resigned to die. My heart wept. My soul dripped in the anguish of my heart’s tears. But my eyes remained dry. I would not cry. Not until this was over. Zeroh stood, spun and I watched in awe as he sent a blaze so white, its edges turned black. The flames so pure, so scorching and painful that even his Fire screamed. 

​Earth and Stability: Earth magic brings an interesting dynamic to romance

​Terrdragon's are characters that often provide the "groundedness" needed in relationships, especially when partnered with more volatile elemental wielders. They represent stability and growth – essential elements in any lasting romance. 

In Pyromage 2, Zeroh confronts his Grandmother (who is a Terrdragon) and her grounding helps him find the answers he's been looking for.

The below excerpt is a sneak peek from Pyromage 2! 

“You left me. Left me with people that did not know what they had.” I put steel in my voice. “And they paid for it with their lives.”

She remained silent. The line of her mouth tightening.

“Tell me!” I snarled. “Why?”

[For the same reason you remain in bipedal form.]

Oh, I was so done with riddles. “Give me an answer, not aenigmas.”

[Ask a question you don’t already know the answer to.]

I could feel her anger in my mind.

“What is that supposed to mean?” I cried.

One of Aleenia’s whiskers rushed forward and tapped the crown of my head.

“Ow!” I covered the spot she’d struck with a hand. “What was that for?”

[Think, Zeroh. Ask your element. A force that has seen all since the beginning and will see all at the end.]

​Air and Freedom: Air magic users bring spontaneity and freedom to their relationships

They teach their partners about letting go, about trust, and about finding balance between independence and connection.

In Pyromage 3, we'll meet an Ethdragon that must find the trust within themselves once more after a tragic accident. I did a "Name A Dragon" poll a while back! The winning name will be reveal soon!! 

How Magic Influences Love in writing these magical romances

I've discovered that each element brings its own challenges and gifts to relationships. Fire brings passion and transformation. Water brings emotional understanding and depth. Earth brings stability and growth. Air brings freedom and trust.

As I continue working on the Pyromage series, I'm excited to explore how these elemental powers continue to shape the relationships between characters. Each book brings new discoveries about how magic and love intertwine.

Question for Readers: 

Which elemental power do you think would make for the most interesting romance dynamic? 

Would you rather fall in love with a fire wielder's passion or be swept away by a water master's emotional depth?

Share your thoughts in the comments below! And don't forget to sign up for my newsletter to receive your free copy of "The King's Thief" and stay updated on all the magical romance coming your way!

Current Writing Updates:

1. Pyromage 2 is currently with my editor.

2. I'm drafting Pyromage 3.

3. Working on Blood Money with my co-author, Carol McKibben

What's Next? 

You'll soon find out!

Until next time...
...happy reading!

​~ Stephy