--
The next morning, the group continued their journey, with Seraphine leading them toward the High Grove. The atmosphere felt lighter, with Kaelen's newfound calm seeming to radiate to the others. They shared banter and stories along the way, though Seraphine remained a quiet, guiding presence, her focus unwavering.
As they entered a bustling village along the road, Kaelen couldn't help but notice the stares they were getting. Travelers and merchants crowded the streets, casting curious glances at the unusual group—particularly at Seraphine, whose shimmering cloak caught the eye of nearly everyone they passed.
Garak grinned, leaning over to Kaelen. "Seems like your 'storm guru' is attracting some attention. I don't blame them—she does look like she wandered out of a fairy tale."
Kaelen smirked, nudging him. "Careful, Garak. Last time you tried flirting, you got slapped by a waitress."
Lira rolled her eyes but stifled a laugh. "Maybe let's focus on finding supplies without turning the place into a circus, shall we?"
They found a small vendor selling provisions, and while Kaelen and Elara were sorting through their options, a tall, imposing figure stepped into their path. The man had a dark, intimidating look, with a scar over his eye and armor that looked well-worn from years of battle.
"So, you're the one they call 'the Stormbearer,'" he said, his voice a low growl as he looked Kaelen up and down.
Kaelen raised an eyebrow. "That's a new one. I don't remember asking for titles."
The man's expression didn't change. "Word travels fast. I heard rumors of someone with storm powers causing quite the commotion. Name's Thoran. Mercenary by trade, and I've been looking for a good fight."
Lira stepped forward, her hand resting on her weapon. "We're not interested in fights. We're just passing through."
Thoran's gaze shifted to her, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "I respect the confidence, but I wasn't asking. Power like his"—he jerked his thumb toward Kaelen—"deserves a challenge. Let's see if the rumors are true."
Kaelen sighed, but a hint of a grin crossed his face. "You really want to try your luck against the storm?"
Before anyone could protest, Thoran drew his sword, its blade gleaming ominously in the sunlight. Villagers scattered, clearing the area in a mix of curiosity and fear. Kaelen glanced back at his friends, nodding for them to stay back.
"Fine," Kaelen said, stepping forward. "But don't say I didn't warn you."
Thoran lunged, his sword cutting through the air with practiced precision. Kaelen sidestepped, feeling the storm pulse within him, waiting to be unleashed. He struck back with a flash of electricity, his fist crackling as it met Thoran's blade. The impact sent a shockwave through the ground, rattling the nearby stalls.
Thoran stumbled back, his eyes widening. "Impressive," he muttered, before charging forward again.
The two clashed in a whirlwind of steel and lightning, each attack met with a counter, each blow growing stronger. Kaelen could feel the storm urging him forward, demanding more power, but he remembered Seraphine's teachings. He focused, drawing just enough energy to push Thoran back without losing control.
With a final surge, Kaelen sent a bolt of lightning at Thoran's feet, forcing him to stumble and drop his sword. Thoran fell to one knee, breathing hard, but he looked up at Kaelen with a grudging respect.
"Well fought," Thoran said, his tone less hostile. "You've got skill—and control. That's not something you see every day."
Kaelen offered a hand to help him up. "Maybe next time, try asking before picking a fight."
Thoran chuckled, taking Kaelen's hand. "Fair enough. Just remember, if you ever need a mercenary, I owe you one."
As Thoran left, the group regrouped, and Seraphine looked at Kaelen with a nod of approval. "You held back. You're learning."
Kaelen shrugged, though he couldn't hide his satisfaction. "Guess I am. Just didn't want to level half the village by accident."
Lira smirked. "Good thing, too. We don't need a reputation for causing mayhem everywhere we go."
As they left the village behind, Kaelen felt a sense of pride—and relief. He was starting to see the balance Seraphine had spoken of, and with his friends by his side, he felt more confident than ever.
But deep down, he knew that this was only the beginning. The storm was still there, waiting. And whatever challenges lay ahead, he was ready to face them.
---