Forged In Freedom

Chapter 4: Duo formed of water and fire

A week has passed since the team's arrival at the mysterious underground base. Day in and day out they have all been leaving to scout out the area around them and map their surroundings. Now equipped with a functioning map preparations are made to go further than they have ever gone before.

"Captain, I'll go. As a scientist, I know how to avoid suspicion and keep myself safe."

I spoke confidently, not even a flicker of hesitation.

"I trust your instincts, Blaze, but sending you out alone is risky. I won't take unnecessary chances. I'll find someone to go with you," Legion said, his tone firm.

"Fine. I'll be in the garden if you need me."

As I headed for the garden, I noticed someone walking the same way. Seraph. A grin tugged at my lips, and I veered toward her.

"Seraph, want to join me in the garden?"

"Huh? Oh, aye, I was heading to the water anyway," she replied with a bright smile.

"To see you transform is always a treat. I might just join you, though don't expect much—I'm not nearly the swimmer you are."

She giggled softly, and we made our way into the garden. We passed Blink and Kai training, Ace and Gaia talking on a giant flower, and Phoenix lounging on the grass. But my focus was on Seraph.

When we reached the river, she didn't hesitate. With a quick smile, she sprinted forward, leaping into the air and somersaulting into the water. Her legs shimmered as they morphed into a scaly, fish-like tail, her pirate garb dissolving into a sleek swimsuit. The golden light of the sun reflected off her skin, making her glow.

"So... are you hopping in or what?" she called, grinning at me.

I blinked, suddenly aware of the heat rising in my chest. "Uh, yeah... give me a sec." I turned away to change, trying to ignore the way she lit up the river with just her presence. I wasn't used to this... this feeling. Was it admiration? Or something else?

We splashed around in the water, enjoying the brief moment of peace. For a while, the weight of our mission felt far away, and even my usual wariness couldn't dampen the brightness of Seraph's smile.

"Cannonball!" I shouted as I jumped into the water again, making Seraph laugh.

"Now you're getting it!" she said between giggles. But then her smile faded, and her gaze shifted to the tree line.

I followed her eyes, but there was nothing out of the ordinary. Just the quiet rustling of the forest surrounding the river. Still, her mood had changed.

"What is it?" I asked, swimming closer.

She bit her lip, then shook her head. "I don't know... something feels off."

Before I could respond, Legion appeared at the riverbank, his presence pulling us back to the reality of our mission.

We got out of the water quickly, drying off and standing at attention.

"Good to see you're both together," Legion said, his voice sharp and to the point. "Seraph, I'd like you to accompany Blaze on an expedition. It's a dangerous one."

Seraph's brows furrowed as she glanced between us. "What kind of expedition?"

Legion explained the mission briefly, outlining the need to map the furthest reaches of the forest and find civilization beyond the Nightwood. His words were calm, measured—but even he couldn't hide the gravity of what we were about to face.

Seraph's excitement grew as she heard the details, but all I could think of was the danger. Her optimism, while comforting, seemed so fragile against the reality of our mission.