Guardian Of Ancient Wood

Chapter 26

As Leaf prepared to cook, he gathered his long green locks and skillfully secured them into a loose ponytail, revealing his handsome features. Furie couldn't help but find him incredibly attractive, admiring the way his hair framed his face and accentuated his natural charm. Leaf's green eyes sparkled with a playful energy as he moved around the kitchen, exhibiting both grace and confidence. While cooking, Leaf began to share a story from his past with Furie. He recounted a childhood escapade that involved a near-encounter with a gigantic carnivorous plant he had created. The tale unfolded with vivid details as Leaf described how, as a curious child, he experimented with his earth powers to bring a massive, sentient plant to life. One day, the plant grew beyond his control, transforming into a menacing carnivore that threatened to consume everything in its path, including Leaf himself. In the midst of this perilous situation, Leaf's mother intervened heroically, using her own powers to rescue her adventurous son from the clutches of the monstrous creation.

Leaf narrated the story with a mix of nostalgia, amusement, and a hint of caution. Despite the danger he faced, there was a lightheartedness in his tone as he reflected on the misadventure of his youth. Furie listened intently, captivated by the tale and gaining deeper insights into Leaf's past. The aroma of the cooking food blended with the storytelling, creating a cozy atmosphere in the cabin that further strengthened the connection between Furie and Leaf.

After eating all the food that Leaf cooked for her, it was time to end this long day. Leaf and Furie went to bed and were talking about what was their plan for the next day, when they agreed pretty quickly how to execute their plan. Furie found herself curious and asked Leaf about his past. "Could you tell me another story about your childhood, please." Leaf was surprised by her question and wondered, "You will probably fall asleep and not hear all of my story if I start now." Furie was amused and shocked by his answer, then she decided to punish Leaf by pulling on the blanket. Furie and Leaf found themselves in a playful battle over the blanket. Laughter filled the air as they tugged and teased each other, creating a carefree atmosphere that eased the exhaustion of the day.

Furie, surprisingly strong, managed to pull the blanket entirely to her side, leaving Leaf with none. Leaf, undeterred, retaliated with a playful determination, attempting to reclaim the coveted cover. The room echoed with their shared laughter, and the friendly banter continued until Furie finally relented. With a triumphant smile, Leaf regained a portion of the blanket. Furie, true to her word, agreed to share it if Leaf promised to tell her another story from his past. "I'll give you some, if you tell me more about your past, Guardian." Leaf, still chuckling, readily agreed, appreciating the opportunity to share more about his life.

As Furie handed back the blanket, she came close to Leaf, resting her head on his chest. The warmth of the moment lingered, and in the comfort of each other's presence, Leaf began to recount another tale from his past. The cabin felt like a haven of shared stories and genuine connection, creating a bond that seemed to grow stronger with every exchanged word.

Furie, nestled comfortably in bed, listened attentively as Leaf began his tale from the days of "So, during my Fire year in Guardian school," Leaf began, "I was really immersed in studying the Fire element. I loved the bravery and determination that came with it. I used to spend hours reading about different fire techniques and spells." Furie nodded, understanding the passion Leaf felt for his chosen element. "That sounds fascinating. Fire does have a certain intensity to it." Leaf grinned in the dark of the bedroom, appreciating Furie's interest. "One day, though, another student from the Fire element made fun of me for spending so much time with my nose in fire books. Can you believe it?" Furie scoffed, "That's ridiculous! What's wrong with reading and learning?" Leaf chuckled, "Exactly my point. But this student insisted that I was wasting my time and challenged me to a duel."

Furie's eyes widened with curiosity. "A duel? What's that?" Leaf explained, "In the Guardian world, duels are a way to settle disputes or challenges. If you refuse a duel, you automatically lose a small portion of your magic, leaving you powerless for a day. So, I couldn't back down. We agreed to meet in an open area and have a twenty-minute elemental fight."

"That sounds... intense," Furie remarked. Leaf nodded, "It can be. The rules are simple. The one who brings the other to their knees first wins. After the duel, the loser has to give a day of their magic to the winner." Furie looked surprised, "That seems a bit harsh." Leaf sighed, "Well, duels have been a part of Guardian tradition for a long time." Furie asked the crucial question, "Did you win?" Leaf's face lit up with a big smile that Furie could not see but hear in his answer. "Of course, I did! I wouldn't be telling you this story if I hadn't." Furie laughed, "Good point. Well, thanks for the story, Leaf." Leaf leaned in and kissed the top of her head. "You're welcome. Sleep tight, Furie." Furie replied "Good night, Leaf," feeling a warmth in her heart as she drifted off to sleep.