Elian's PoV
Elian watched the flickering flames with a contemplative gaze, the warmth of the campfire a pleasing contrast to the cool evening air. The group had settled into a comfortable rhythm, their camaraderie making the journey feel less daunting. Yet, as he observed Cassia and Kite from the corner of his eye, he couldn't help but notice the subtle changes in their dynamic.
A sly grin spread across his face. "Those two are going to be interesting to watch," he thought, suppressing a chuckle. He turned his attention to Kite, who was busy stowing away the last of their supplies.
"Hey, Kite," Elian called out, standing up and stretching. "Mind helping me gather some more firewood? We might need it later."
Kite looked up, nodding with a smile. "Sure thing, Elian. Lead the way."
The two of them ventured into the woods, the sounds of nocturnal creatures filling the air. The moonlight filtered through the canopy, casting a silvery glow on the path ahead. Elian picked up a few sturdy branches, tossing them into a makeshift sling he carried.
"So," Elian began, breaking the comfortable silence between them, "how are you holding up with all this prophecy business?"
Kite paused, picking up a fallen branch and examining it. "It's a lot to process, to be honest. I feel like I'm carrying a heavy responsibility, but I also know it's important. And having you all with me makes it easier."
Elian nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Yeah, it can be overwhelming. But remember, we're in this together. None of us are alone in this."
Kite smiled, appreciation evident in his eyes. "Thanks, Elian. That means a lot."
They continued their task, the rhythm of their movements and the rustling of the leaves creating a soothing backdrop. Elian decided to delve deeper, curious about Kite's thoughts.
"You know, it's been a while since you last saw Cassia, right? Two years, if I remember correctly," Elian said, trying to sound casual. "How's it been catching up with her?"
Kite's cheeks flushed slightly, and he chuckled nervously. "Yeah, it's been two years. A lot has changed since then. She's grown stronger, more determined. It's been... interesting, seeing how much she's grown."
Elian grinned, sensing an opportunity to tease. "And here I thought you were just trying to impress her with your newfound muscles."
Kite laughed, shaking his head. "Nah, it's not like that. Well, maybe a little," he admitted, his smile turning sheepish. "I just want to be someone she can rely on."
Elian's grin softened into a warm smile. "You're doing a great job, Kite. Cassia may act tough, but she needs someone like you in her life. Someone who believes in her and can see through her walls."
Kite looked thoughtful, his gaze distant for a moment. "Thanks, Elian. I guess I just want to be there for her, like she's been there for me."
They continued gathering firewood, the conversation shifting to lighter topics—memories of past adventures, amusing anecdotes, and their hopes for the future. Elian found himself enjoying Kite's company, appreciating the depth of his character and the strength of his resolve.
Elian gasped as he saw a lake. "Say, how about we take a break and bathe?"
"Together?" Kite asked, eyes wide.
Elian chuckled. "Wouldn't be the first time. Why so sheepish?"
He sighed. "True, but that was when we were ten, eleven, and twelve."
The blond tilted his head. Did he make Kite feel self conscious or was Kite just a self conscious person in general?
"Come on, it's just a quick dip to freshen up. We've been on the road for a while, and it'll feel good to wash off the dust."
Kite hesitated for a moment, then nodded, his expression relaxing. "Alright, you make a good point. Let's do it."
Elian grinned and led the way to the lake's edge. The water shimmered under the moonlight, inviting and serene. He quickly stripped off his shirt and pants, leaving them in a neat pile on the shore. Kite followed suit, albeit more slowly, casting cautious glances around to ensure their privacy.
Elian waded into the cool water, relishing the refreshing sensation against his skin. "Ah, this is the life," he said, stretching his arms wide. "Come on, Kite. The water's perfect."
Kite stepped into the lake, shivering slightly as the water enveloped him.
"You're right, it does feel good," he admitted, a small smile playing on his lips as he used his fire powers to slightly heat up the water.
Elian swam over to him, splashing water playfully. "See? Told you it'd be worth it."
Kite laughed, the sound echoing across the lake. "Yeah, yeah. You win this round."
They swam for a while in companionable silence, the night's calmness wrapping around them like a comforting blanket. Elian couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment, grateful for moments like these amidst their turbulent journey.
As they floated on their backs, gazing up at the star-studded sky, Elian decided to probe a little deeper. "So, Kite, what's really been on your mind? I mean, besides the prophecy and all."
Kite sighed, his eyes reflecting the stars above. "Honestly? It's a mix of things. The prophecy, of course, but also the responsibility of leading this group, and... Cassia."
Elian turned his head slightly, curiosity piqued. "Cassia, huh? What's going on there?"
Kite hesitated, then spoke softly. "It's just... I haven't seen her in two years, and in that time, I've changed a lot. I'm not the scrawny kid she used to know. I guess I'm worried about what she thinks of me now."
Elian chuckled, shaking his head. "Kite, you've got nothing to worry about. Cassia's tough, sure, but she's got a good heart. And trust me, she sees the changes in you. She's proud of you, even if she doesn't always show it."
Kite's expression softened, a hint of relief in his eyes. "Thanks, Elian. That means a lot. I just want to be someone she can rely on, someone worthy of her trust."
Elian nodded, splashing water playfully towards Kite. "And you are, my friend. Just keep being yourself, and everything will fall into place."
"Hey!"
Elian grinned mischievously at Kite. "Enough talk about serious stuff. We're here to relax, remember?" With that, he splashed Kite again, grinning from ear to ear.
Kite laughed, the sound echoing across the lake. "Oh, it's on!" he declared, splashing Elian back with equal enthusiasm. Their laughter filled the night air, and for a moment, the weight of the prophecy and their journey seemed to lift.
Their bath turned into a mix of wrestling and splashing.
They continued their playful water fight until they were both breathless and grinning widely. Finally, they waded back to the shore, their spirits lifted by the impromptu fun. Kite used his fire magic to quickly dry himself and Elian off.
Once dry, they got dressed and gathering the firewood they had collected before heading back to camp.
As they approached, Elian noticed the girls sitting around the fire, their expressions ranging from curious to suspicious. Liliana was the first to speak up, her eyes narrowing playfully. "And where have you two been? You took your sweet time."
Elian chuckled, trying to look innocent. "We just found a nice spot to cool off and decided to take a quick dip. Nothing suspicious, I promise."
Sylvana, shy as always, blushed slightly but didn't say anything. She simply glanced at Kite, her eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and concern.
Cassia, however, fixed them with a piercing gaze. "You two were gone for quite a while. What were you really up to?"
Kite, still drying his hair with a cloth, looked up and met Cassia's eyes. "We were just talking and decided to take a break by the lake. It's been a long journey, and we needed a moment to refresh ourselves."
Cassia raised an eyebrow, her tough exterior not easily swayed. "Is that so?"
Elian stepped in, his tone light and teasing. "Come on, Cassia. We were just having some fun. You can even go check the lake yourself if you don't believe us."
Liliana giggled, sensing the playful banter. "Maybe we should have a girls' trip to the lake next time."
Sylvana smiled timidly, nodding in agreement. "That sounds nice."
Ludo snickered. "I missed the boys' trip."
Cassia's gaze softened slightly, though she still seemed skeptical. "Alright, I'll let it slide this time. But don't keep us waiting like that again."
Kite smiled, relieved that the interrogation was over. "Promise, we won't."
As they settled back around the campfire, the group resumed their lighthearted conversations. The fire crackled warmly, casting a comforting glow over their faces.
Elian nudged Kite with his elbow, whispering, "See? Nothing to worry about. Just keep being yourself, and everything will be fine."
Kite nodded, grateful for Elian's support. "Thanks, Elian. I appreciate it."
Elian grinned. "Don't mention it, bud."