TerraWorld~The Youngest One.. (#8)

Chapter 20

The quiet dawn settled over the camp as Amy, Mylow, and Ethan met in a secluded clearing. They knew the rest of the team would be waking soon, but this time was theirs alone—a moment to focus on their new pact and the strategy they planned to shape from their combined strengths.

Ethan was the first to speak. "Alright, we've got three unique abilities between us. If we're going to be able to stand our ground against Shadow and his forces, we need to maximize our skills, make our styles mesh."

Mylow, who'd spent the night thinking over the specifics of his abilities, nodded. "We should take turns leading different parts of our practice sessions. Amy, you mentioned your new kitsune form yesterday—how's that transformation working for you?"

Amy glanced down at her hands, which were already sparking faint yellow energy, her focus unwavering. "It's powerful—almost too powerful sometimes. The energy is hard to keep steady, but once I get the hang of it, I think I could match almost anyone's speed on the team. I've just got to work on control." She raised her head, her expression steely. "And that's where you two come in."

Ethan stepped forward. "We'll help you, but we'll need to know exactly where your limits are. If we know how far we can push ourselves and each other, we can get a better idea of our teamwork potential."

Mylow crossed his arms, clearly taking his role as mentor seriously. "Alright. For today, let's focus on endurance. We each need to know how long we can hold up in a fight—and it's not just about energy, but emotional stamina too. When Shadow comes at us, it's going to be brutal."

A silence passed between them. The weight of their commitment settled like a heavy cloak, but none of them shied away. They knew what was at stake.

As they began, Amy ran through her energy exercises while Mylow and Ethan took turns throwing small obstacles her way—rock throws, sudden shouts, quick distractions—to test her focus and reaction. Her yellow kitsune aura flared as she dodged and weaved, her movements more graceful with each turn.

After an hour, they took a breather, sitting down in a loose circle as they caught their breath. "We're getting somewhere," Mylow said, wiping sweat from his brow. "If we keep this up, we'll be better prepared for Shadow than anyone else."

Ethan glanced at his two teammates, respect clear in his gaze. "This isn't just about Shadow, though. I think we're discovering more about who we are—not just as fighters, but as people. We're stronger together."

Amy smiled. "And for once, I don't feel like the odd one out."

They exchanged smiles, each one realizing that they'd begun something beyond training. This was a partnership, a shared commitment to protect each other—and everyone they cared about—no matter what they faced.

Back at camp, the others were starting to stir, the morning routines bringing life to their quiet refuge. Kevin spotted the trio returning, their expressions resolute.

"Training already?" he asked, a little surprised.

Amy nodded, her voice unwavering. "Yep. Just getting a head start."

Kevin raised an eyebrow, curious but respectful. "Good. We're going to need it. Shadow's next move could come any time. Just make sure you're ready when it does."

Amy, Mylow, and Ethan exchanged one last look, knowing that when the time came, they'd face the threat together, bound by their shared resilience and the newfound strength they'd built in each other's company.