Frozen Flame of Dawn - Chapter 62

Chapter 62: Chapter 30: Wheels in Motion_1

As Aiden and Tommy were working hard to finish planning their route to Icelorn Basin, the Rienfeld family was also busy as they were plotting a ruthless strategy having determined to deliver a devastating blow to Aiden’s team and ensure they wouldn’t survive crossing the border of central province.

While amidst the web of schemes and looming dangers the sun began to stretch its first golden rays over Vandrim Province while casting a soft glow over the village surrounded by frost-covered trees.

The icy fortress that Amira had constructed still stood tall, its crystalline surface catching the early morning light and shimmering like a wall of diamonds.

On a quiet clearing at the edge of the fortress wall, Amira slowly exhaled and opened her eyes from her meditation as her silver-gray irises flickered in the fading light like starlight in motion.

Although she could feel her muscles getting stronger and her senses getting better, she couldn’t grow any further which made her assess the progress.

She understood that storing any more spiritual energy would risk instability and that she wasn’t ready to form a core just yet; Alex’s teachings had made that clear. She needed to stabilize further, temper her body until it could hold a greater reservoir of energy.

The spiritual energy circulating within her veins pulsed steadily and she could feel the restraint—it was time for another tempering session.

Her gaze flickered as her thoughts shifted to the blood of the mutated buffalo she had slain whose ability to hardened hide was a testament to its fledgling awakening. Though its power had only just emerged, its blood was rich enough to push her through at least two more rounds of tempering.

But for that, she needed privacy and the right herbs where lay the problem as she didn’t have the necessary herbs with her now.

She was still putting together a plan when she heard footsteps coming up behind her. When she turned around, she saw Sam and Sophie coming up behind her, looking calm.

“You’re early,” Amira told them, her voice calm but expectant.

Sam inclined his head respectfully. “Preparations are complete, Captain. We’re just waiting for your orders.”

As Amira saw that they were ready, her eyes softened. “Good.” She stood and dusted off her cloak. “Take fifty members and form a squad Asher will go with you—his abilities in reconnaissance will be useful.”

She paused for moment remembering something as she continued. “While Rhea is needed here to continue tending to the injured, take Mira with you as her healing abilities could make all the difference if something happens.”

Sam nodded in understanding but Sophie had a slight furrow in her brow which Amira caught and asked. “Something to add, Sophie?”

Sophie nodded but hesitated for a moment before speaking. “Why aren’t you going with them, Captain?”

A small smile of knowing curled Amira’s lips. “Because someone has to stay behind and make sure nothing burns down while they are gone.” Her smile stopped as her voice become serious. “Also you must be aware that from yesterday few shadows have been trailing us and even though they haven’t made a move yet but I’m not taking any chances.”

“Fair point.” Sophie nodded in agreement.

Amira then turned her attention back to Sam. “On your way to the safe house, send word ahead so they’re prepared. I’ve already informed Bella, so you shouldn’t have any issues. But make sure you leave before noon—you need to be back here before sundown. I don’t want anyone caught in the dark.”

Sam placed a hand over his heart in salute. “Understood Captain.”

With a brief nod Amira dismissed them so they headed back toward the village square.

Not long after, Amira heard the low hum of engines rumbled through the village as she watched the convoy of vehicles as they started up and rolled down the road, leaving a trail of dust in their wake.

She stood there for a while, her sharp eyes following the trail until the last vehicle disappeared beyond the horizon.

She sighed softly as the morning had fully blossomed now, the villagers waking slowly beneath her gaze.

The quietness seemed deceptive as if there was calm before the storm, and she prayed that this time, fate would give them a reprieve.

When she turned back to look at the village square within the icy barrier she had created, she could see the survivors grouped together, murmuring softly among themselves.

Some of her squad members were escorting families to their homes to gather whatever essential belongings they could carry while others accompanied women to collect food and water, not just for their journey but also to prepare breakfast and lunch for everyone.

The atmosphere soon shifted from sudden quiet to bustling activity with small fires crackled in makeshift pits as elders huddled around them as they warmed their hands and helping where they could.

A group of children had started a game near one of the fires as their laughter breaking the morning silence and for a fleeting moment the village felt alive again.

Amira smiled faintly as she thought at least they’re trying to find some normalcy but deep down, she couldn’t shake the feeling that it was all so fragile.

With a steady breath, she made her way down from the wall thinking if I can’t train my body right now, I’ll train theirs.

As she passed by the village center, her eyes fell on a small group of orphaned children sitting together near the corner of the square. They were the same children who had caught her eye the day before—huddled together like a flock of frightened birds.

The eldest among them, a girl with dirt-streaked cheeks and wide watchful eyes, noticed Amira approaching and quickly stood. “Good morning Captain.” the girl said with her voice steady despite her youth. There was a mix of reverence and gratitude in her tone.

Amira’s eyes got softer as she knew she’s trying to be brave.

“No need for formalities,” Amira said, waving her hand dismissively. “What’s your name?”

“Alice.” The girl blinked in surprise and then said.

Amira nodded thoughtfully. “Alice since you’re the eldest then village chief must’ve already told you what’s going to happen.”

Alice gave a serious nod. “Yes, Captain.”

“Good.” Amira crouched to meet Alice’s gaze. “I need you to take care of everyone here. Make a list of anything you all need—clothes, food, blankets, anything and I want everyone’s names. If you need something, don’t hesitate to tell me?”

Alice eyes showed gratitude and thankfulness as she said. “Yes, Captain and thank you.”

Amira reached out and gently squeezed her shoulder before standing. “Alright. Go on.”

As Alice returned to the group, Amira continued her path toward the area where her squad members were already gathered.