Healing Lessons

The dawn of the next day broke with a sky painted in soft hues of lavender and rose, heralding the start of their three-day journey back to Ald Town. The air was crisp, carrying the promise of new beginnings as the group gathered outside the tavern, their wagon ready and waiting.

Kite stood beside the wagon, his gaze lingering on the horizon where the sun's first rays kissed the earth. He felt a sense of anticipation, a readiness for whatever lay ahead. Sylvana approached him, her steps light, a noticeable change from the girl who had once been weighed down by sorrow.

"Ready to leave Valoria behind?" Kite asked, offering her a reassuring smile.

Sylvana nodded, her eyes reflecting the sky's changing colors. "Yes, I think I am."

The group set off, the town of Valoria slowly shrinking behind them as they ventured into the open countryside. The road was lined with wildflowers, their vibrant colors a stark contrast against the greenery. Mako guided the horses with a steady hand, while Elian kept a watchful eye on the surrounding landscape, his earth magic at the ready should they encounter any trouble.

As the day progressed, Mako shared stories about has past travels.

Sylvana listened intently, occasionally adding her own insights, her voice growing stronger with each word.

They made camp as the evening approached, the sky a canvas of fiery oranges and purples. Kite and Ludo gathered wood for a fire, while Liliana and Elian prepared a simple meal. Sylvana, feeling more a part of the group than ever, used her summoning magic to call forth a small, mythical creature—a luminescent dragonfly that hovered around the camp, its light a beacon in the twilight.

The night was spent under a blanket of stars, their light a silent testament to the vastness of their world. They shared stories until the embers of the fire grew dim, and one by one, they drifted off to sleep, the dreams of tomorrow's possibilities lulling them into a peaceful slumber.

The dawn of the second day broke with a golden glow, the sun slowly rising over the horizon and casting long shadows across the landscape. The air was cool and fresh, the promise of another day of adventure hanging in the air. The group stirred from their slumber, stretching and preparing for the day's journey.

Kite was the first to rise, quietly tending to the dying embers of the fire from the night before. He added a few pieces of wood, coaxing the flames back to life. As the fire crackled, the aroma of breakfast began to fill the air, waking the others.

Liliana, ever the early riser, joined Kite with a smile. "Morning, Kite. Sleep well?"

Kite nodded, smiling back. "Yeah, I did. How about you?"

"Like a log," she replied, laughing softly. She began preparing some herbs and ingredients for their morning meal, her plant magic subtly enhancing the flavors and nutritional value of their food.

One by one, the rest of the group joined them. Sylvana looked refreshed, a lightness in her step that hadn't been there before. Mako and Skyla emerged from their tent, Skyla still cradling Fluffy, her inseparable companion. Elian and Ludo were the last to join, both looking ready for the day's journey.

After a hearty breakfast, they packed up their camp and set off once more. The road ahead was long, but their spirits were high. The countryside was alive with the sounds of nature—birds singing, leaves rustling in the breeze, and the distant murmur of a brook.

As they traveled, Ludo used his water magic to create streams of fresh water for the horses and the group to drink. His control over water was precise, a testament to his growing skills. Elian, with his earth magic, subtly smoothed the path ahead, making the journey easier for the wagon.

Liliana, ever curious, wandered off the path occasionally to gather rare plants and herbs, her plant magic guiding her to the most potent specimens. She returned each time with a basket full of interesting finds, a satisfied smile on her face.

The group took a break around midday, finding a shaded grove by a clear stream. The water sparkled in the sunlight, inviting them to rest. Mako and Elian took the opportunity to check the horses, ensuring they were well-fed and hydrated. Sylvana sat by the water's edge, her fingers trailing through the cool stream as she watched the small, creatures swimming about.

Kite joined her, sitting down with a contented sigh. "It's peaceful here, isn't it?"

Sylvana nodded, her eyes reflecting the tranquility of the scene. "It is. It feels like the world is full of magic."

"It is," Kite agreed. "And we're lucky to be a part of it."

After their break, they continued their journey. The landscape began to change, the rolling hills giving way to denser forests. The road wound through the trees, the canopy above providing a welcome respite from the afternoon sun.

As evening approached, they found a suitable spot to set up camp. The forest provided ample wood for a fire, and Liliana's gathered herbs ensured another delicious veggie and mushroom meal. 

Kite used his fire magic light their campfire. Its light casting playful shadows on the surrounding trees.

The group settled in for the night, the sounds of the forest providing a soothing backdrop. They shared stories and laughter, their bonds growing stronger with each passing day. Mako recounted tales of his travels, his voice filled with the wisdom of experience. Sylvana spoke of her hopes and dreams, her words resonating with a newfound sense of purpose.

As the fire burned low and the stars filled the sky, they drifted off to sleep, the promise of new adventures waiting in the dawn of the next day. Their journey back to Ald Town was over halfway complete, and each step brought them closer to home.

The next morning, as they were making breakfast, Kite walked up to Liliana.

She grinned and hugged him. "Morning, Kite!"

"Ah! Too tight."

She giggled and let go of him. "It's odd that you approach me first thing in the morning. Usually, it's me who comes to you."

Kite rubbed his arms where Liliana's enthusiastic embrace had been a bit too strong. "Yeah, well, I've been thinking about something," he said, his tone a mix of hesitation and resolve.

Liliana tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. "Oh? What's on your mind?"

He took a deep breath, the morning air fresh in his lungs. "I was wondering if you could finally teach me how to use healing magic," Kite said, his eyes searching hers for a sign of agreement. "You said you would some days ago."

Liliana hummed thoughtfully, tapping a finger against her lips. "Do you think your control over your fire magic is good enough?" she asked, her gaze assessing. "Grandpa did say it could be dangerous if not controlled."

Kite nodded earnestly. "I've been practicing a lot. I think I've gotten to a point where I can manage it well enough to try to heal with it. Assuming I am a healer to begin with."

She smiled, her expression softening. "Alright, Kite. I think it's a wonderful idea. Healing magic is all about balance and intent. It's not just about the magic itself, but also about the desire to help and heal others."

Kite's face lit up with a grateful smile. "Thank you, Liliana. I promise I'll be a good student."

Liliana chuckled. "I don't doubt that for a second! I'll show you the basics after breakfast. For now, let's get breakfast started. A girl can't tutor on an empty stomach."

He smiled. "Okay."

Kite found himself following Liliana into the wagon. He watched her rummage through a crate.

He blinked. "What are you looking for, Liliana?"

"I'm getting some fruits! I plan to make a yummy fruit salad!"

"A fruit salad?"

She nodded as she handed some apples and oranges to him.

Kite took the apples and oranges, feeling their cool, smooth surfaces. "Sounds delicious," he said, his stomach rumbling in agreement.

Liliana giggled. "It's going to be! And I'll add some wild berries for extra sweetness."

Together, they set to work, Kite peeling the oranges while Liliana sliced the apples into thin, even pieces. The simplicity of the task, paired with the morning's gentle calm, made for a serene start to the day.

As they worked, the rest of the group began to stir. Ludo emerged from his tent, stretching and yawning. "Mmm, what's that smell?" he mumbled sleepily.

"Fruit salad!" Liliana called out, her voice cheerful.

Ludo grinned. "Count me in!"

Elian joined them next, rubbing his eyes. "Morning, everyone. Need a hand?"

"Sure!" Kite replied. "Grab some berries, will you?"

Elian nodded and wandered off to a nearby bush, returning with his hands full of ripe, juicy berries. The colors of the fruits blended together, creating a vibrant mosaic in the wooden bowl Liliana had found.

Mako watched them from where he was packing up the last of their gear. "Looks like breakfast is in good hands," he said, a note of pride in his voice.

As the sun rose over the horizon, the campsite was filled with the sounds of laughter and the sweet scent of fresh fruit. The salad was a hit, with everyone digging in and enjoying the burst of various flavors.

Kite liked the blueberries and oranges the best.

After breakfast, Liliana beckoned Kite to a quiet spot near the stream. "Alright, let's get started with your healing magic training," she said, her tone serious but encouraging.

Ludo stood by his cousin, while Elian and Sylvana watched from afar.

"Since Ludo is also a healing mage, he's gonna help me," Liliana said, smiling.

He adjusted his glasses and smiled. "Plus, not like my cousin's a good tutor to begin with."

She puffed her cheeks. "Rude!"

Kite chuckled nervously. Ludo had really turned out to be a know-it-all.

"Liliana, Ludo, don't fight," Elian said, sighing.

The two smiled slightly. "Fine."

"Come, Kite!" Liliana yelled, grabbing his hand.

He yelped as she dragged him away. Where was she taking him?

Liliana led Kite to a tree at the edge of the clearing, its leaves a dull, sickly green. "See this tree? It's not doing so well. I thought it might be a good patient for your first try," she said, her voice gentle.

Kite eyed the tree warily. "But what if I accidentally burn it?" he asked, his concern evident.

Ludo pushed his glasses up his nose with a smirk. "You won't burn it if your control is as good as you say. Just focus on using your body heat, not your fire magic. Channel enough prana to produce warmth, but not flames. And if you do end up burning it, I can always douse them with my water."

Kite took a deep breath and approached the tree. He placed his palms against the bark, closing his eyes and concentrating. He tried to envision the warmth of his body flowing into the tree, imagining the sickly leaves regaining their vibrant color.

After a few moments, he stepped back, opening his eyes to see… no change. The tree remained as it was, its leaves still a worrying shade of green.

Kite's shoulders slumped. "I… I couldn't do it," he said, a hint of disappointment in his voice.

Ludo clapped him on the back. "Hey, don't look so down. Not being able to heal with warmth doesn't mean you lack an attribute. It just means you might have a rarer one than most."

"Something unique? That's exciting!" Liliana said, grinning.

Elian grinned as he and Sylvana got closer. "Yeah, it sure is!" he said.

Sylvana smiled shyly and nodded.

Kite managed a small smile, buoyed by his friends' words. "Yeah, maybe you're right. I just need to find out what it is."

Liliana nodded, her expression supportive. "Exactly! And we'll help you figure it out, Kite!"

He grinned.

Elian gasped. "Hey, Kite! Your sword, it's glowing!"

Kite gasped and looked over his shoulder. His golden sword was acting strange. Five of the markings on it were glowing.

"What's going on?" Ludo asked, his glasses sliding off his nose slightly as he stared in awe.

Kite wasn't sure either. Was this a good thing or a bad thing?