Name: Kana
Title: Reflex
Story: Shadows in the distance
Characters: Frey, Caithlynn, Alan
Colors: Acantus 15. Matches/lighter/flint - Angel Cake 12 Sing the praises - Alice Blue 22 I have seen so many extraordinary things, nothing seems extraordinary anymore
Supplies and Styles: Feathers (your character is cold)
Word count: 529
Rating: PG
Summary: The first time Frey uses his power in a battle.
Notes: Constructive criticism is, as always, welcome



"Frey! Watch out!"

The boy looks behind him when he hears Caithlynn's desperate shout. Out of reflex he brings his hands up. Defence. Only vaguely he hears the cry of the enemy charging towards him. Only vaguely he feels how Caithlynn calls for the Wind - knows that she'll be too late. Feels her worry and fear.

"No!"

The yell escapes him - it wasn't his intention. Within a second he can feel the Water starting to built. Subconsciously he calls it to his hands, letting it flow through his fingers.

He raises his arms, holding out his hands, letting the water form a barrier between him and his attacker. If he didn't have to concentrate so much on keeping the water flowing, he'd have smiled. It's the first time he manages to call for his Element so quickly and so strongly.

Caithlynn's presence next to him eases the tension out of his shoulders. He's not alone. And it is that thought he clings on to. The fact that she doesn't interfere, doesn't help, makes him more confident. In himself. In his abilities. He's grateful for her support. And Alan's - though Alan never shows it and always denies it.

"Frey..."

Her voice is soft, but he can hear the warning and the question. Nodding once he allows her to further deal with the adversary. The moment he feels how she uses the Wind to knock the man of his feet, he lets go of his own Element. It makes the Water splash down, soaking everyone standing near.

-

He shivers and wraps his arms around him. Trying to get it warm again. The wind is howling outside of the cave - the shelter they found after the fight.

Caithlynn and Alan are talking. He can hear it though he can't understand the words. They are too far off and whispering. Closing his eyes, Frey decides it doesn't really matter. He just wants to feel warm again. And the still wet clothes aren't exactly helping much...

Trembling fingers take the matches Caithlynn always carries in her bag. He tries to light one, so he can start a fire - Alan has already gathered enough wood so they can survive the cold night.

A soft curse escapes him when the match refuses to catch fire. There are tears shimmering in his eyes when eventually the match breaks.

Surprised he looks up when he feels a warm hand on his shoulder. Eyes opening wide - perhaps a little in fear - when he sees Alan standing there. The other Wielder doesn't say a word. He just looks at the boy. Takes in his trembling form and his wet clothes and his struggle to light a fire.

Alan holds out his other hand, letting it hover over the wood. Smiling - just a little - when he sees the little sparks and hears the wood crack. Soon the fire is burning and a comfortable warmth is spreading through the cave.

Without another look Alan walks away again, leaving Frey and the fire behind. His steps faltering slightly when he hears the soft and grateful thank you the boy whispers at his back.