Chapter 5: Journey into the Unknown

  The morning air was crisp, filled with the fresh scent of pine and earth. Kaavi checked their supplies meticulously, his experience making him acutely aware of the importance of preparation. His dark cloak blended seamlessly with the forest shadows, and his sturdy boots were well-suited for the trek ahead. He adjusted the straps of his backpack and retrieved Artur’s sword from the closet, handing Viktor a small knife. The boy’s face, though still shadowed by recent sorrow, now bore a flicker of determination.

  Kaavi knelt to Viktor’s level, his gaze steady and reassuring. “Are you ready, Viktor? Remember, stay close and stay alert.”

  Viktor nodded, his young face a mix of eagerness and apprehension. “I’m ready. Where are we going?”

  Kaavi stood up, his gaze shifting northward. “We’re heading north to an old northern kingdom. It’s a place few ventures to, but it’s safe and will serve as a good place for you to train.”

  With a final glance at the cabin, Viktor followed Kaavi into the dense forest. The path grew narrower and more treacherous, with roots and underbrush threatening to trip them at every step. The air grew cooler and damper as the thick canopy above blocked out much of the sunlight. Kaavi’s senses were heightened, his mind constantly alert to any nearby presence.

  Suddenly, Kaavi stopped abruptly, raising his hand to signal Viktor to halt. His eyes scanned the surroundings, his senses on high alert.

  “Something’s not right,” Kaavi said in a low voice. “Stay behind me.”

  Viktor’s eyes widened, a mix of fear and curiosity evident in them. “What is it? Are we in danger?”

  Kaavi’s expression hardened. “We’re being followed. I sensed it when we entered this forest, but now I’m certain.”

  Viktor’s heart pounded. “Are they here now?”

  Stolen story; please report.

  Kaavi focused on the thoughts of the bandits lurking in the shadows. “Yes,” he replied, his voice steady but tense.

  From the shadows, a group of rough-looking bandits emerged, their leader stepping forward with a menacing grin. The leader, a burly man with a scar running down his face, eyed Kaavi and Viktor with predatory interest.

  “Well, well, what do we have here? A lone traveller with a child? You picked the wrong path, old man,” the bandit leader sneered.

  Kaavi remained calm, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. “We’re just passing through. We don’t want any trouble.”

  The bandit leader laughed harshly. “Too late for that. Hand over everything you have, or we’ll take it by force. And make it quick; we don’t have all day.”

  Kaavi’s eyes narrowed. He couldn’t afford to give up their supplies—it would be a death sentence with no nearby town or village and the closest one nearly 10 days away. He quickly assessed the situation, noting the number of bandits and their positions. Determined not to use his powers and draw unwanted attention, he decided to fight without them.

  With a swift motion, Kaavi unsheathed his sword, positioning himself between the bandits and Viktor. The bandits, momentarily taken aback by Kaavi's swift reaction, quickly recovered and charged. Kaavi’s movements were fluid and precise, a dance of parries and strikes honed by years of training and experience.

  As the first bandit lunged forward, Kaavi sidestepped gracefully, his sword slicing through the air with deadly accuracy. He parried another attack, reading the bandit’s mind to anticipate the next move. Despite the strain from using his powers the day before, Kaavi’s focus remained unshaken.

  Viktor, gripping his small knife tightly, watched the battle unfold. His heart pounded, but a spark of determination gleamed in his eyes. Seeing a weak spot in the bandit leader’s stance, Viktor gathered all his courage and hurled a rock with all his might. The rock struck the leader’s temple, stunning him momentarily.

  Kaavi’s eyes widened slightly in surprise. He couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride at Viktor’s unexpected battle instincts. He truly is Artur’s blood, Kaavi thought, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Good job, Viktor!” he shouted, his voice filled with encouragement.

  With the leader stunned, Kaavi seized the moment, delivering a decisive blow that incapacitated him. The remaining bandits, witnessing the fall of their leader and Kaavi’s prowess, hesitated, their resolve faltering.

  Kaavi took advantage of their confusion, his sword flashing in the dim light as he struck down another bandit. Sweat dripped down his forehead, but he kept up a calm facade, even as he struggled internally to maintain his composure.

  The remaining bandits, seeing their leader fall and their numbers dwindling, began to retreat. Kaavi did not pursue them, his focus on ensuring Viktor’s safety. He wiped his sword clean and sheathed it, scanning the forest for any remaining threats.

  Kaavi turned to Viktor, his face a mixture of pride and concern. Viktor stood there, panting from the adrenaline, his eyes wide with a mix of fear and pride.

  “You did well, Viktor. But remember, only act when it’s absolutely necessary. Your safety is my priority,” Kaavi said, placing a reassuring hand on Viktor’s shoulder.

  Viktor nodded, still catching his breath. “I understand. I just wanted to help.”

  “And you did. You showed courage, and that’s important. Now, let’s keep moving. We need to put distance between us and this place,” Kaavi replied, his tone gentle but firm.

  As they continued their journey, the forest gradually gave way to a small valley where a quaint village nestled amidst the greenery. The village was surrounded by lush fields and dotted with small, rustic houses. The sight of civilization brought a sense of relief to both Kaavi and Viktor, a welcome contrast to the dangers they had faced.

  ---