Good in the Bad.

"Okay, what are we doing exactly?" Nikon asked, shielding his eyes from the blinding artificial sun. Its golden light cascaded down, painting the secluded meadow with an ethereal glow and casting long, dancing shadows.

This remote field, a safe distance from the camp, was our chosen spot, isolated, vast, and perfect for what was about to unfold. Memories of the last uncontrolled display of my newfound powers flashed in my mind, reminding me of the potential dangers and boons.

"We're testing the scope of her new abilities," Orryn said, rolling his shoulders back and popping his joints, his posture erect. His silhouette, strong and commanding, contrasted against the light, making him look even more formidable. "We need a measure of her true strength and control."

Nikon snorted, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Great, I get that. But why do I have to be here"

I stepped in before Orryn could respond, "Both Orryn and I have undergone changes. You've seen us fight multiple times, that makes you the best judge of our progress. You'll spot differences we might overlook."

Throwing up his hands in mock surrender, Nikon finally relented, settling himself comfortably on the dew-kissed grass, his eyes watchful and attentive. "Alright, at least make it worth my time."

Orryn turned to me, his intense gaze assessing. The weight of the moment settled between us, a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. "You ready?" His voice, though calm, betrayed a hint of concern.

Taking a deep breath, feeling the cool air fill my lungs, I stretched my arms and nodded. "Let's see what I can do."

"Endurance, first," Nikon pronounced, eyes sharp as they moved between Orryn and me. "Let's first understand your physical prowess post transformation. Your magical aptitude can wait."

Orryn, always alert and ready, met my eyes. "He's right. You can't let magic be a crutch. Your body should be as formidable as your spells."

Drawing in a deep, steadying breath, I felt the anticipatory prickle of magic beneath my skin. "What's first?

Orryn gestured toward a distant tree on the opposite end of the meadow, an imposing sentinel against the backdrop of the dimming sky. "Run. From here to there and back. We'll clock your pace. Let's see if your stamina wanes."

Before I could muster a reply, Orryn interjected, "And once you're back, you'll test your might." He hefted a hefty stone, adorned with cryptic runes, a test of strength after speed.

The adrenaline surged, sharpening my senses as I broke into a run. The ground became a blur beneath my feet, wind snaked past my ears, every sensation heightened. By the time I whirled back at the tree, Orryn greeted me with a nod of acknowledgment.

Without hesitation, he thrust the rune-engraved stone into my arms. "Lift," He commanded.

Muscles straining, I hoisted the stone, surprised that I could get it up at all with the amount of weight runes covering them.

From the side, Nikon's boisterous voice rang out, "Is that all you've got? Push harder!"

The day evolved into a relentless cycle of sprints and weight lifting. Each time exhaustion threatened to overtake me, a rejuvenating warmth pulsed through my veins, pushing the weariness away.

After a few rounds, Orryn, agile and tireless, joined me. I couldn't help but marvel at his boundless energy every time we reached the tree, him seemingly in his own world, unburdened.

Nikon, observing the day's progress, eventually signaled a pause. "I must admit," He began, appraising us with newfound respect, "You've surpassed my expectations. Your stamina's outstanding."

Orryn glanced my way, eyes gleaming with pride. "Indeed, but consistency is the key. In war, fatigue lurks ever close, waiting to pounce."

Drawing ragged breaths, I wiped away the perspiration. I knew this intense regimen was just a precursor to a much more challenging journey ahead. Yet, Orryn's unwavering presence and Nikon's offbeat guidance gave me solace.

Nikon stretched, feigning weariness, "Phew, glad I wasn't in your shoes! I'm still as fresh as a babe."

I chuckled, "You surely act like one."

"You love me, admit it," Grinning widely, Nikon retorted, "I'm the man of your dreams."

"I tolerate you at best," I smirked, "As for the actual man of my dreams, that honor goes to the man who's glaring daggers at you right now."

Following my gaze, Nikon clapped Orryn on the back, "Ah, mate, no worries. I'm too dazzling to be tied down. Anyone who beholds my true glory might just disintegrate on the spot. So, out of pure charity, she's all yours."

A ripple of laughter emerged from me, a moment of levity amidst the rigor. Nikon's playful barbs and Orryn's stoic resilience were the balance I needed in this relentless pursuit of mastery.

Nikon and Orryn had always shared this unique dynamic. Nikon was an expert at poking and prodding, forever devising ways to ruffle Orryn's feathers. Orryn, for his part, often feigned exasperation, making one wonder why he even tolerated Nikon's antics. Yet, beneath the playful banter and occasional irritation, it was evident that Orryn deeply valued the moments they shared. Their camaraderie was genuine, a blend of years of shared experiences and mutual trust.

As we made our way back to camp, the two continued their playful jousting, their laughter echoing in the cool evening air. I chose to remain silent, lost in the whirlwind of memories from the past year and a half. The transition from what my life once was to its current state was nothing short of miraculous. Reflecting on it, I was astounded at the trajectory my life had taken, landing me amidst the rebellion and freed prisoners, flanked by two of the most intriguing individuals I'd ever met. It was almost surreal to think of how much had altered in such a short span.

The camp's lights twinkled in the distance, beckoning us closer. The tents were laid out systematically around a massive bonfire that was the heart of the settlement. Its flames danced vivaciously, casting a warm and welcoming glow on the surroundings. The smell of roasting meat and the faint strumming of a lute reached my ears. It was a stark contrast to the strict training sessions, a reminder that even in the midst of war and uncertainty, there were moments of solace and community.

Nikon, taking a deep breath, exclaimed, "Ah, the smell of a well-earned meal!" His eyes were already scouting for the source, probably to get the first share.

Orryn chuckled. "All you think about is food, Nikon. But after all that work, I'm just as hugry. I could eat a horse."

"Hopefully it never comes to that." I joked, nudging Orryn playfully.

We approached the bonfire, and a few familiar faces turned to greet us. Among them was Seraphina, she waved us over, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Heard you three were running around like headless chickens all day. Got a special brew to soothe those aching muscles."

I gratefully accepted the steaming mug she handed me, letting the warm liquid chase away the remnants of fatigue. The blend of herbs was strong yet oddly comforting, Seraphina was a blessing in disguise for creating such a beautiful thing.

As the night deepened, stories began to flow. Warriors spoke of past battles, jesters cracked jokes, and poets recited verses that tugged at the heartstrings. The weight of the day's exertions melted away, replaced by a camaraderie that was as old as time.

I found myself nestled between Orryn and Nikon, with Fleya seated across from us, completely engrossed in the elder's tales of ancient heroes and mythical beasts. Orryn's arm snaked comfortably around my shoulders, pulling me closer, while every now and then, Nikon would interject with one of his signature sarcastic remarks, sending ripples of laughter through our small circle. Fleya, meanwhile, seemed more captivated by Nikon's antics than the elder's story, her gaze often drifting his way with an unmistakable hint of admiration.

The night wore on, the stories morphing into songs of hope and love. The world outside our circle, with its dangers, magic, and challenges, faded into insignificance. For now, we were just a group of souls seeking solace in each other's company, finding strength in shared laughter and tales of old.

And as I leaned back, letting the warmth of the fire and the comfort of friends envelope me, I realized that these were the moments that made the journey worthwhile. The moments that, amidst the chaos of the world, reminded me of who I was and what I was fighting for.