The Secrets of the Elements

Daksh banged his fist on the trunk of a tree. Tears slid from his eyes.

He stood in the middle of an abandoned forest; the place where his father used to teach self-defence to small children before setting up the academy.

Azazel's men had destroyed the men and abducted many of those children. Since then, Indra shifted to a new place and set up a secret academy.

"Daksh, what are you doing here at this time of-" Rutuja paused for a brief moment. That was the first time she saw tears in Daksh's eyes. Tears, emotions, vulnerability were things alien to Daksh. He portrayed himself as a strong and fearless person.

"Daksh," said Rutuja as she took a step forward.

Daksh wiped his tears and pulled himself together. He faked a smile. "Following me? Are you?" he asked and walked towards her.

"What's wrong?" she asked. "Concern, concern for me? I like it," he said as he moved close to her. She pushed him behind. "It's okay if you don't want to tell. Just don't roam around like this, it's dangerous you know," she warned.

"What are you doing here?" he asked.

"Rishi said you were missing," she said and looked at the trunk of the tree. "Again Rishi," muttered Daksh and clenched his fists.

Daksh you are bleeding,"

whispered and

it's late, you need to apply something on this," she said and

~~~~~~

and kept the

coffee is too hot, I'm fine, Tej," she lied. Swarna

lot these days," added Ray. "And Tej is working hard for

you kids are focussing on your

"Sorry, I'm late," she said as she took a seat at the dining table. "Not a problem,

said Maya and took a sip

work, see you guys soon," she said

~~~~~~~~~

she sipped her thick cold coffee. Rishi glanced at Daksh,

said Rutuja and watched him

he will not, I'm sure," said Rishi

you after my parents passed away, it's been Dai Maa, you, Master Indra, and