The morning air in Aurenfall was crisp, carrying the scent of dew and steel. Frank stood on the training yard, eyes scanning the horizon. Today would be different—not just for him, but for Elara.
She approached, determined, carrying a small satchel with bandages, herbs, and a short training staff. Her eyes met Frank's, steady, unwavering.
"I'm coming with you," she said.
Frank blinked, taken aback. "Elara… this is dangerous. You've never fought like this before."
"I've been training while you were away," she replied calmly. "I've learned more than you think. And I'm not letting the town—or you—face this alone."
Frank exhaled slowly. She's serious. She's ready.
TRAINING TOGETHER
Rhea joined them, demonstrating defensive stances, basic attacks, and strategies for mobility in urban environments. Frank watched as Elara caught on quickly, her movements precise, graceful, yet strong.
"Good," Frank said, handing her a small shield. "Focus on timing, not strength. Use your mind more than your arm."
Elara nodded. "I won't let you down."
By midday, Frank and Elara sparred lightly, testing coordination, reflexes, and strategy. Their bond—built through letters, concern, and shared purpose—showed in how they moved together.
"You're faster than I imagined," Frank admitted, smiling faintly despite the sweat and bruises.
Elara's cheeks flushed slightly. "You've set the bar high."
THE FIRST MISSION TOGETHER
That night, word came of Caelum's agents moving toward a nearby trade route. The same route Elara had helped secure during Frank's first mission.
Frank turned to her. "This is it. Are you ready?"
Elara tightened her grip on her staff. "I've never been more ready."
They moved swiftly, silent among shadows. Frank signaled, and she followed perfectly, watching corners, signaling potential danger, even managing a subtle but effective maneuver that disarmed one of the enemy scouts.
For the first time, Frank realized something vital: she wasn't just his reason to protect—she was an asset, a fighter in her own right.
THE CONFRONTATION
The enemy group paused at the trade route, unaware that Frank and Elara had positioned themselves above. Frank whispered instructions, and together they executed a plan:
Traps triggered below.
Signals distracted the agents.
Frank engaged the main scout while Elara intercepted flankers with precise strikes and clever maneuvers.
The coordinated effort forced the enemy to retreat, disoriented and beaten—not by brute strength alone, but by strategy, timing, and teamwork.
Elara landed beside Frank, breathing hard but smiling faintly. "We did it," she said.
Frank nodded, chest swelling with pride. "You did it. We did it… together."
THE BOND DEEPENS
As they returned to Aurenfall, Frank realized that their connection was more than letters and distant thoughts—it was trust forged in action.
He looked at her, a flicker of admiration and warmth crossing his features. "Elara… you're incredible."
She smiled back, quiet but confident. "So are you, Frank. So are you."
Above, in the shadowed hills, Caelum Vire's eyes narrowed as he observed.
"The boy is growing stronger… and now, he is no longer alone. This will complicate everything."