Chapter 2: Takeshi's arrival

Just as Mathew and the other warriors prepared to leave with the boys, a sudden flash of silver cut through the tension. A figure emerged from the shadows of the forest, moving with a deadly grace. Takeshi, a warrior clad in black robes, his sword gleaming in the morning light, appeared before them.

With swift and precise movements, Takeshi disarmed the nearest warrior, sending him sprawling to the ground. Hillel turned, drawing his weapon, but Takeshi was faster. His blade cut through the air with a hiss, and Hillel stumbled back, clutching his arm.

"Let them go, or face the consequences," Takeshi said quietly, his voice calm but commanding.

The warriors hesitated, recognizing Takeshi 's prowess. They knew they couldn't win the fight, not against him. Mathew released Uzah, dropping him to the ground, and Takeshi swiftly moved to stand between the warriors and the boys.

"This isn't over, the chosen one will be ours," Hillel snarled, gritting his teeth in frustration.

Ignoring Hillel's threat , Takeshi swiftly grabbed Nathaniel and Uzah and fled into the forest. The sound of leaves rustling and twigs snapping underfoot filled the air as they ran deeper into the woods, putting distance between themselves and the cursed warriors.

They continued until they reached a small clearing surrounded by towering trees, where Takeshi finally stopped. He set Nathaniel down gently and turned to Uzah, his face etched with concern.

"Everything's clear. We rest here for the night," Takeshi said, placing a reassuring hand on Uzah 's shoulder.

Uzah nodded, his body still trembling from shock and exhaustion "okay, uncle Takeshi.....? He whispered, his voice barely audible.

Takeshi looked at him, his eyebrow raising in slight suprise "How did you know it was me?" He asked, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

Uzah managed a small smile, his voice a whisper, " mother told me about your hair style." Still in a daze.

Takeshi chuckled softly, the sound almost foreign in the tense quiet,"oh..... hahaha...." He laughed briefly.

But his laughter quickly faded as he turned his attention back to Nathaniel, checking his wounds. His expression darkened with worry as he realized the severity of the injuries. Takeshi mind raced thoughts heavy with concern and uncertainty.

"This shouldn't have happened....Elena, I'm sorry.... what should I do? Uzah has awaken his power early and Nathaniel...Did the elder gods planned this..... This going to be a difficult," Takeshi murmured to himself, his voice barely audible.

Uzah still weary, noticed the serious look on Takeshi 's face and spoke softly. " Did you say something uncle?"he asked, his small and concerned.

Takeshi quietly shook his head, his expression softening as he looked at Uzah. " No.... nothing get some sleep. We've got a long journey a head."he replied gently.

The night deepened and the stars twinkled over head, Takeshi sat watchful, his eyes scanning the forest for any signs of danger. Uzah, lying beside Nathaniel, finally closed his eyes, exhaustion overtaking him Z. Takeshi 's thoughts were troubled, knowing that this was only the beginning of a long and perilous journey for them all.

*******

Three days after their arrival in Dove kingdom, Nathaniel slowly stirred awake. His vision was blurred, his mind was foggy with confusion and disorientation. As he sat up, he called out, " mother! Mother! Where are you?" His voice was filled with desperation.

Uzah, sitting beside him lowered his head in sorrow. "Mother was killed,"he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.

Nathaniel's eyes filled with tears, " oh... mother...." He murmured, his heart breaking as he tried to make sense of their situation. He glanced around the unfamiliar room and asked,"where are we?"

Uzah looked up at him, his expression somber, " we are in Dove kingdom, where uncle Takeshi lives. He brought us here when we were attacked by the cursed warriors."

As the boys spoke, Takeshi entered the room, hi face a mixture of relief and concern. "Nathaniel, you are awake! That's a relief,"he said, his voice steady. He observed Nathaniel 's wounds, which seemed completely healed. Takeshi 's mind raced with suspicion and curiosity. Could it be? could be Nathaniel awakening his power, too? And yet...he doesn't remember anything.

Clearing his thoughts, Takeshi addressed the boys more firmly. " We need to find a safer place than here. Get some food now; tomorrow we leave at noon,"

Both boys nodded, their faces still marked by grief and confusion. "Okay " they replied in unison.

(At the boarder of Dove and Nar)

Meanwhile, at the boarder of Dove and Nar, tension brewed among the Black Dragons. Azdal, a fierce warrior, turned to their leader, Shauwa, with eager eyes. "Boss, let have the privilege to kill Takeshi," he insisted, his voice dripping with anticipation.

Shauwa's face darkened., with anger. "You don't stand a chance against him," he replied coldly.

Azdal sneered."why? I have kill many demi_gods he is nothing to me."

Shauwa's eyes flashed with fury . "I said no! Takeshi is mine to fight,"he snapped, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Tracey MG, standing near by, giggled softly. "It seems you are afraid of him, sir,"she teased.

In a flash, Shauwa lunged forward, grabbing Tracey MG by the neck and lifting her off the ground. "Don't insult me, or I will kill you. Got it?"he hissed, releasing her only when he saw fear in her eyes.

Coughing and gasping for air, Tracy MG nodded quickly."okay!"

Shauwa turned his attention back to Azdal, his face twisted with mix of anger and determination. This time Takeshi I Will kill you he thought to himself, his hand instinctively touching the scar that marred his face _a constant reminder of his grudge against Takeshi.