The morning light filtered through the small café's windows, illuminating the scattered dust and the occasional flicker of electricity from Salvus's fingertips. He was still getting used to his new life, and the responsibilities that came with power were heavier than he had imagined.
Salvus shuffled behind the counter, trying not to trip over stray crates, while Kaelen stood nearby, arms crossed, observing. "You've improved," Kaelen remarked dryly. "But try not to turn this place into a fireworks display before breakfast."
"I'm… trying," Salvus replied, sparks dancing harmlessly on his fingers as he poured a cup of coffee. "It's just that sometimes… electricity has a mind of its own."
Kaelen raised an eyebrow, muttering under his breath, "You're lucky it's a cooperative mind."
Despite their comical mishaps, the café became a place of subtle training. Salvus learned to control his sparks in confined spaces, and Kaelen practiced manipulating small amounts of blood without endangering anyone. Together, they developed a rhythm: Salvus improvising, Kaelen guiding.
Outside the town, the world was shifting. Scouts reported movements of imperial forces, small villages being absorbed or abandoned, and rumors of generals plotting minor campaigns. Even though Salvus and Kaelen were away from the front lines, they kept themselves informed, mapping out strategies for when the next confrontation would arrive.
The afternoons were filled with smaller adventures: helping townspeople with mundane tasks using their powers, deflecting minor threats, or Salvus accidentally shocking a cart full of apples, sending it rolling into Kaelen's carefully placed traps. Each incident brought laughter, groans, and lessons in precision.
By evening, the sun dipped low over the horizon, painting the town in orange and gold. Salvus leaned against the balcony railing, watching the distant hills. Electricity thrummed gently through his veins, a reminder that danger was never far.
Kaelen approached quietly. "Reports indicate a new general approaching—one known for tactical brutality. This might be our first serious test beyond the skirmishes we've handled."
Salvus nodded, feeling the familiar tension of anticipation. "At least it won't be boring," he muttered, a spark flickering from his palm in nervous excitement.
As night fell, the air shifted. The general arrived at the edge of the town, his troops silent and organized. Salvus and Kaelen observed from the shadows, ready to confront him. Salvus' fingers danced with controlled sparks, Kaelen's presence calm yet alert.
When the confrontation began, it was brief but intense. Salvus used electricity creatively, sending arcs along the ground to trip or distract the general's soldiers. Kaelen manipulated blood threads to redirect blows and guide Salvus' sparks with precision. The battle was quick, sharp, and clever.
By the end of the night, the general lay defeated, either incapacitated or left alive to reconsider his loyalty. Salvus wiped sweat from his brow, chuckling. "First real test done… and I didn't burn the café down."
Kaelen only shook his head, though a faint grin betrayed his amusement. "You'll have to aim for less theatrics next time," he said.
The town remained peaceful for now, but both knew this was only the beginning. With their combined wits, powers, and occasional chaos, Salvus and Kaelen were ready to face whatever the empire sent.