The Last peril Monk

Chapter 3 Hunted

Four days had passed since the harrowing encounter with the unknown clan. Mike and Leeway had made slow progress toward their destination, the weight of their recent experiences heavy on their minds. They had traversed desolate landscapes, seeing no signs of intelligent life since they left their dojo. Starving and exhausted, they were desperate for food when they finally stumbled upon a small village.

"I'm so hungry," Mike groaned, clutching his stomach as it rumbled loudly.

"Yeah, same. Can't wait to see Janet again; she's the best cook," Leeway said, drooling at the thought of her delicious meals.

"Yeah, when we see her again, Leeway, I think we should talk," Mike began, wanting to discuss Janet's fate.

Leeway cut him off, his attention caught by something else. "Hold that thought, Mike. Look, a village, and I smell food."

The boys sprinted toward the village, drawn by the mouth-watering aroma wafting through the air. They followed their noses to a modest house from which the tantalizing smell seemed to emanate.

"Oh my gosh, that smells so good," Mike said, his eyes wide with anticipation.

"Seems it's coming from that house over there. Let's go knock on their door and politely ask for some," Leeway suggested.

"Okay, bet," Mike agreed eagerly.

Leeway knocked on the door, and a young girl answered, peering up at the strangers with curious eyes.

"Hello, may I help you?" the little girl asked politely.

"Yes, actually. Are your parents home? My friend and I smell something delicious coming from your house," Leeway explained, smiling.

"You must be talking about the Niku my mommy is making. Hold on," the girl said before closing the door.

Mike's impatience was palpable. "Ugh, what's taking her so long? I'm shrinking out here; I'm so hungry."

"Come on, Mike, she's just a little girl. Besides, we were trained to go days without food," Leeway reminded him.

"So? Doesn't mean I like it," Mike muttered.

Just as Mike finished speaking, the door swung open again, revealing a grown man.

"Hey, my name's Duke. My daughter told me you guys were hungry," he said warmly.

"Yes, sir, we don't mean to bother you; we just want something to take with us on our journey," Leeway said respectfully.

"Yeah, you guys can come eat with us; there's enough to go around," Duke offered.

"Really? Taking some to go ain't no problem, sir," Leeway said, taken aback by the hospitality.

"Nonsense, it's getting late anyway. You can wash up and eat here. But can you leave your shoes and sword at the door when you walk in?" Duke requested.

"Yeah, no problem," Mike said, barging in eagerly.

"Sorry about him," Leeway apologized, following suit.

"No problem. The restroom's over there, and I'll have my wife bring you both a change of clothes," Duke said.

"Okay, thanks, sir," Leeway replied.

Mike had already washed up, so now it was Leeway's turn. He made his way to the restroom, a nagging feeling of doubt about this house gnawing at the back of his mind. Something felt off, but the promise of a meal was too tempting to resist.

After cleaning up, Leeway joined Mike and the family at the dining table. Alongside Duke and his wife were their two children: the girl from before and a boy around the same age. Leeway took the empty chair.