The Disaster Born's

Chapter Seventeen - Ash

"Riva, there's the pond, so just a bit further," I say authoritatively, my voice cutting through the rustling leaves and distant bird calls. I glance back and see Leon sparring with Alysia, her laughter ringing out like a melody. Leon always had a way with the ladies, his easy charm and confident demeanour drawing them in effortlessly.

"Ash," Talon says softly, his voice barely above a whisper. I nod, tearing my gaze away from Alysia and Leon. "Do you really think it's wise to leave Alysia on her own after what happened earlier?" His face is etched with concern, his brow furrowed.

"You're right," I concede, my mind racing. "ALYSIA!" I shout, my voice firm. Her eyes meet mine, wide and curious. "You're with us," I say more gently. I watch as her smile broadens, her eyes sparkling with relief and excitement.

We gather in a tight circle, arms draped over each other's shoulders, the air buzzing with anticipation. "Alright, here's the plan," I begin, my tone serious. "Talon, you guard the flag with your invisibility," I instruct, turning to him. He nods, his expression determined. "Scarlett, you protect Talon," I continue, meeting her steady gaze. "Riva, you stay between Scarlett and the pond, protecting the border. It is vital we do not let anyone near this flag!" Riva nods, his face set with resolve.

"Alysia, Leon, you're with me on the attack," I say, my eyes scanning their faces for any sign of hesitation. They both nod, their expressions mirroring my own determination. "Once we have the last flag, we will go back to camp and defend," I add, my voice rising with enthusiasm.

"LET'S WIN THIS!" I shout, and everyone cheers, their voices blending into a single, powerful roar. We break apart, each heading to our designated positions with a sense of purpose.

"Leon and Alysia, over here," I call, gesturing for them to come closer. Once I have their attention, I unfold the map. "I have a feeling team Air is here," I say, pointing to the training ground. Alysia nods, her eyes narrowing in thought.

"I overheard them discussing this as a possible hiding spot for the flag," she says softly, her voice tinged with excitement.

Suddenly, the bell rings, its sound echoing through the forest. "Game on," I say softly, tucking the map into my pocket. With a final nod to Leon and Alysia, I start walking towards the training ground, my heart pounding with anticipation.

"Here," I whisper, gesturing Alysia and Leon to a large, ancient tree. We crouch behind it, peering around the trunk to see the Air Team. No flag in sight, but they're guarding a box—the one the flags came out of. "What's the betting the flag's in there," Leon says, nodding towards the box.

Alysia nods, her eyes narrowing. "I think you're right, Leon," she whispers. They exchange a determined smile. I clear my throat and scan the surroundings again. Two guards by the box—a fierce Air Born and a vigilant Water Born. Two more, Star Born's, patrol the border. The other two must be on the attack.

The guards stand ready, weapons gleaming in the dappled sunlight—swords, axes, swinging in swift, deadly arcs. "Where's Ember?" I ask Leon. He shakes his head, a silent shrug indicating he has no idea.

"I can take their weapons away. You attack from the side," Alysia whispers, her voice barely audible. I nod, watching as she opens her palms, summoning her earth powers. Leon is mesmerized as her eyes glow a fluorescent green. She raises her arm, and suddenly, the weapons start to levitate out of the Air Team's hands.

"WE'RE UNDER ATTACK!" one of them shouts, his voice echoing through the forest.

"Let's go!" I say, winking at them. Leon and I charge forward, fireballs blazing from our hands. The Star Born's dodge and dive, using their invisibility to evade us. Leon thinks quickly, blowing ash onto the invisible shadows, making them visible.