The Secrets of the Elements

Sleep over

"Mom said yes," said Advika as she entered the bedroom and sat on a brown bean bag kept opposite the bed.

"Great! It means you can help me with dinner," said Ray and winked. Tej smiled and put his arms around Ray's shoulders, squeezing his neck.

                                                                                           ~~~~~

The fierce winds blew as he waved his sword in a circular motion in the air, keeping a close eye on the six wolves surrounding him. He wore a suit of armour and had tied his short hair into a ponytail. The wind whipped his loose hair strands back from his face.

He took a few steps back and switched the sword to his other hand in a split second, attacking two wolves in one go.

The wolves plunged on him, landing on the rugged ground beneath. The man had vanished into oblivion the second they leapt.

                                                                                           ~~~~~

"I know you won't argue with her," whispered Tej as he helped Advika arrange the dishes on the dining table. Advika glanced at Maya, who was busy clicking pictures with Zarna and Ray. "Don't worry, I won't do anything that'll bring this mission in trouble," she assured.

"Dinner time guys," called Advika as Tej took his seat. Advika sat beside him, with Zarna and Maya sitting opposite to her. Ray sat on the other side of Tej.

Zarna started with the hot tomato soup prepared by Ray. Maya took a bite of the Manchurian. "I must say, Ray, you're a great cook," she said. Ray smiled. "Thanks," he beamed.

                                                                                             ~~~~~

"Saved yourself from the wolves then," said an old woman as she handed a man a cup of hot liquid. "Yes," he said and took a sip. He pursed his lips and closed his eyes.

"Is this necessary?" he asked as the old woman sat in front of him on a small cot. "Yes, don't expect medicine to be delicious."

"I had got a clue about the book," he said as he took another sip of the liquid. "And...?"

"The book transported itself somewhere, to hide from our enemies," revealed the man.

"The book should not get into..."

"I know, I know," interrupted the man. "But, Dai Ma, the book knows how to protect itself."

"I hope the book finds a righteous master," said Dai Ma. "Indra, you need to hurry up. Ask Daksh for help if you-"

"Daksh is too young for this mission," replied Indra keeping the cup on the ground.

"No, he isn't," opposed Dai Ma and sighed. "It's your call. But it's high time you tell him the truth."