Dawn Of Jaide

Power Within (Part 2)

The training grounds of Amberfall were an expanse of activity. Warriors in training sparred with swords, others practiced archery, and a few were seen honing their magical abilities. The clang of steel meeting steel, shouts of instructions, and the piercing whistle of arrows filled the air.

At the far end of the grounds, a lone figure stood, her silhouette perfectly poised, muscles tense, eyes focused on a distant target. Natalie released the bowstring, and an arrow whizzed through the air, finding its mark dead center on the target. Every archer nearby paused to watch her, a mix of awe and envy evident on their faces.

As she reached for another arrow, a familiar voice called out, "Always the perfectionist, aren't you, sister?"

Natalie froze for a split second, recognizing the voice instantly. Turning around, she met the gaze of her sister, Gwen. The resemblance between the two was undeniable: the same sharp features, the same intense eyes, but where Natalie was fire and intensity, Gwen exuded calm and grace.

Without a word, Natalie ran into Gwen's open arms, the two sisters embracing tightly.

Pulling away, Natalie scanned Gwen's face, taking in the new lines of worry and the fatigue evident in her eyes. "It's been too long sister. The grounds haven't been the same without you."

Gwen smiled, her gaze traveling to the bullseye riddled with arrows. "It seems you've managed just fine."

Natalie smirked, flipping her hair over her shoulder. "Just keeping up appearances."

The two sisters sat on a nearby bench, the world around them blurring as they got lost in their reunion. They shared stories, laughed at old memories, and even shed a tear or two over what had been lost in their time apart.

Eventually, the conversation shifted to the current state of Amberfall. "So," Natalie began, trying to sound casual, "is it true, she's finally here?"

Gwen nodded, "Jaide. She's not what you'd expect. She's young, unsure, but she has a heart of gold. Kind, thoughtful... everything we need right now."

Natalie raised a brow, "You seem fond of her." Gwen hesitated before replying, "I am, she just needs guidance, time to grow into her role."

Natalie looked thoughtful, "Then it's good she has you by her side."

Gwen took a deep breath, "There's much ahead, sister. Challenges, battles, choices. But with Jaide leading us, and with you and I by her side, I believe Amberfall truly stands a chance."

Natalie gripped Gwen's hand, determination clear in her eyes, "Then let's not fail her."

***

The gardens were renowned not just for their colorful array of flowers and plants, but for the spectacular view they offered. Jaide sat on an stone bench, her gaze drifting over the city, stretched out beneath the manor. From this vantage point, the golden rooftops shimmered in the afternoon sun, the bustling market squares looked like a patchwork of colors, and the distant forest framed the city beautifully. It was a sight simply to die for.

Lost in thought, she was hardly aware of the gentle rustling of leaves or the muted conversations of the people around. There was a weight on her shoulders.

Just as she was about to sink deeper into her reverie, the sudden appearance of Quentin and Ezra startled her. She hadn't noticed them approaching, so engrossed was she in her contemplation.

"Hey, you alright?" Quentin asked, genuine concern evident in his tone.

Ezra added, "You seemed miles away."

Jaide gave a weak smile, "It's just... part of me feels ecstatic, but another part wonders if this is all a dream. Everything has changed so rapidly."

Ezra moved closer, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder, "Change can be overwhelming, but remember, it also brings growth."