《Between Gods And Mortals》Chapter 8: Brooklyn, New York. 2019

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Another day begins in one of the largest and most populous cities in the world. It's approximately seven in the morning and the handsome black young man gets up from his bed to the sound of his cell phone alarm. The noise is annoying, because no young person likes to wake up early, and skin would be no different. The boy clicks the button to turn off the alarm, pauses while standing, still with his eyes closed, and takes a deep breath.

It's Tuesday of the week. He walks to his closet and puts on a T-shirt. It is customary to always sleep with the top uncovered, usually just shorts or underwear. The man goes to the bathroom and washes his face, looks at himself in the mirror with a smile and goes towards his room again until he hears a voice coming from downstairs.

MIKE!!! Breakfast is ready! Right, Mom! I'm on my way down! Come soon before it cools down! I am going!

Mike's mom cooks something delicious for him this morning, he can smell it from upstairs and it makes him close his eyes and smell that nice odor. He realizes it's scrambled eggs and bacon. The breakfast of champions in his opinion. He goes downstairs and sees his mother already preparing his plate at the table. He approaches her, kisses him on the head and then rubs.

Good morning my love! Good morning Mother! Hahaha another day to come and so you have to eat well. True… Today is the first day of class of the semester, so I have class all day, and I still have to train after all! Wow, son! I don't know why you try so hard with that demented old man! That's it, mother! What an exaggeration! Woden helps me a lot, I'm getting better in my fighting style and physically! Hmm… I will always suspect that old man! Nothing convinces me otherwise that he hides something! Hahahaha… Easy, mom! He just wants my best! It's the least he should do!

Mike's mother always had this variable mood and distrust of other people until proven otherwise or her due value. A strong woman and her son has all the respect and admiration in the world. She was always a guide for him in difficult times and when he was down, she made sure to put him up. Everyone thinks Mom is always the best Mom in the world and Mike was no different.

So you'll be late getting here today? If that's the case, I'll leave the food prepared and you'll just have to heat it up! Right! Are you going to work overtime today? Yes! The hospital needs me more than ever! I think if it wasn't for me it would have been chaos! Where's your humility being a doctor, Michelle? I can son!

Michelle says this and automatically slaps Mike on the head who ate calmly and has his head tilted slightly forward. A nice family of two. Mike goes back to eating his breakfast until it's all over. Such delicious food he wouldn't leave anything on his plate.

After they finish eating, each one goes to their room to get ready. Mike puts on jeans and a black Nike shirt. At the age of twenty, he is doing very well physically. And finally put your Jordan Ones, your favorite sneakers of your favorite player along with Lebron James. The sportsman he admires for his actions on and off the field. After finishing packing, he grabs his suitcase and goes downstairs to the garage. He goes to his motorcycle. A very simple and cheap motocross model. His dream when he has his own money and job is to get a Harley Davidson. Your favorite brand among motorcycles.

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Mike hops on his bike, starts it, opens the garage and heads towards his college. With the motorcycle the way becomes easier, the traffic in New York is horrible with its overcrowded cars. Using a motorbike combined business with pleasure. Even at the beginning of his studies, Mike has a long way to go. He arrives on campus and parks his motorcycle. A car appears beside him too. A man with dark glasses lowers his glass, saying:

If there was a championship of who is the ugliest you would be undefeated champion! Um… And you would be second, Jason! Hey man, how are you? Do you keep scaring all women away? It's… The stage isn't good. Maybe I should learn from the master! Sure… I can give you some tips!

Jason is Mike's best friend, they've both been friends since high school and managed to get together at the same college in town. The two are an amazing pair. Help each other. Practically brothers, only the sanguine character is missing. However, they want to take different paths. Mike wants to be a cop, while Jason has a passion for the law, he wants to be a lawyer. They both have the tough road ahead, but giving up is not in their vocabulary.

So man… There's going to be a get-together meeting next Friday. Good food and varied drinks, nothing fancy. Then there will actually be the party… Let's go? I do not know, dude … Come on, bro! Lots of girls and free drinks! You practically only study and train! Maybe you'll even find the girl of your life there! Then you are already manipulating me haha. Using my weak point against me! You know how much I want a serious relationship! Me? Manipulating? Yes, you! Anyway, I think I need a break! I'll ask Woden to release me... That's how you say it, my bro! By the way, I heard that Jessica is going to… Hmm... Things are getting interesting...

Jessica is one of the prettiest girls in college. In addition to being very smart and stylish, the way she dressed was extravagant and gave the impression of confidence. Gossip says she doesn't have a boyfriend. Mike had a little crush on her, but they never spoke or talked. She does several classes with him alone. The opportunity to talk to her hasn't come yet, but Mike is a fan of Japanese culture. If he sees you as a samurai he should be patient and seize the opportunity when he comes.

The two walk together to their respective classes. In today's classes they won't meet once. They will only see each other again at lunch in a few hours. Until then the duo Batman and Robin will be separated.

What class will you take now, Mike? - Jason asks. A so-called Norse Mythology… What ? We didn't even know we had it! what useless stuff Neither do I, but it's mandatory. Then… Good luck! I will do this!

The two do their fist-touching greeting and go their separate ways. Mike walks into the large hall of his college and sees all the first chairs full. The option is to sit in the back. He goes up further into the room and sits in the empty seat. He takes the notebook out of his backpack and puts it on the table. The teacher hasn't arrived yet, so he takes the opportunity to see the news and results of his favorite teams. All from Cleveland.

Mike's mother was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. Her father's passion for the Browns, Cavaliers and Indians was passed on to Mike. Even though she had to move to New York because of her jobs and opportunities, Michelle never failed to keep up with her hometown team. The son who grew up watching her do this ended up adopting his mother's ways.

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Hmm… The browns look like they can finally find the light at the end of the tunnel after all these years!

Cleveland hasn't had much success in sports in recent years, which makes Michelle and Mike sad. However, once you have chosen this city, it is a one-way street, there is no option to change even in this complicated situation. While Mike is distracted browsing the news the room fills with students. Most already seated and others trying to find an empty place to sit. Next to Mike there is no one yet.

What appears to be the professor also enters the room, because he's an old man in a suit, so he's definitely the Norse Mythology professor. This will be his first class. Mike has never seen him on campus before. This class is new in the curriculum and short according to the school schedule. Only three months of school.

The classroom door opens and a girl pokes her head inside and smiles at the teacher. Used to these situations, the teacher doesn't even need to hear more words to understand the students. Mike watches her from a distance and sees that she is very beautiful.

He goes back to looking at his computer screen and starts using the mouse in his right hand to leave the sports screen and go to the day's class material. Mike feels a movement beside him and sees that the girl who was late is beside him. She wants to sit there beside you, as most of the seats were already taken. The girl was Jessica. It must be fate smiling at Mike now. Jessica puts a hand on Mike's forearm and asks:

Is anyone sitting here? It is not empty! You can sit there! Thanks!

Jessica starts taking her things out of her bag for class too. Her laptop, a notebook and a case. She takes the pen out of there and gets ready. Mike at first finds it odd that she has a laptop and takes notes in a notebook, but he thinks who he is to judge someone on their quirks or methods. He also has his own.

Are you a Cleveland fan then? Huh? - Mike was lost in his thoughts and didn't pay attention to Jessica's question and worse, he didn't realize he hadn't taken off the sports tab and left his sight. The boy also didn't expect her to start talking to him soon, a stranger. You… Cleveland… Fan! - Jessica says this ironically, playing with Mike's distraction this early in the day and class. Yes I am! Hahaha interesting! We suffer from the same pain so basically! I'm a fan of the New York teams It's hard for us, really… What is your name ? I'm Mike! Jessica! Nice to meet you Mike! It's my pleasure, Jessica!

She stretches her arm slightly to greet Mike and he repeats the gesture with a smile. The girl Jason was talking about earlier appears right next to Mike on this first day. The class barely started, but Mike was already happy to be there with a beautiful girl beside him and even more talking to him. He didn't have a crush on her, but he had her interest. Chance and luck have come, so it has to be seized. Mike has three months to develop something.

Very good children! Time to start our class. I will be your Norse Mythology teacher. My name is Cassius. So you can call me Master Cassius or Professor Cassius. If you have any difficulties or questions, you can look for me in my office. Number 302! Any questions about me?

A deafening silence in the room, no student shows any intention to speak or have any questions. The teacher's first impression is impressive. His strong, confident voice made no one say anything, let alone an icebreaker joke. This class looks like it's going to be taught by a high-ranking military, a general.

Very good! I will continue… The evaluation will be through an article that will be delivered at the end of our three months together. Only that! Easy isn't it? You can even start today! And that's what I advise you to do. So let's get down to business ? What do you know about Norse mythology?

The teacher asks this question expecting at least a positive response from his students. Nobody says anything yet. The teacher then tries to show a good mood, smiling at the class and pointing his finger looking for someone to respond. His introduction was quite frightening, for this reason the students are a little apprehensive to speak, but among so many there was a brave one.

I know you have Odin, the king of Asgard; Thor and Loki sons of Odin; the story of the giants who are the deadly enemies of the Asgardians… There is not much to say other than what we have seen in movies or stories. Hum interesting. What is your name ? I am Jessica.

Mike looks at her scared. He hadn't expected her to answer the teacher's question, even more so vaguely. However, the boy was positively surprised. He saw that she imposed herself in front of the teacher and that she mainly had courage. The other students around her may not have noticed, but she did. Mike has some insight into reading situations or people, except when it comes to feelings. In this department he is a layman.

That's right Jessica, your analysis is not wrong. You answered what you had to answer. With your explanation, we can start from somewhere. But do you believe that Asgardians and giants exist or are they just a legend? - The teacher asks this and at the same time half of the room is surprised by the question and the other shows some smiles, thinking that this teacher must be crazy. I believe they're just stories from the times of the Vikings… They didn't exist, much less do they exist - Jessica replied. It's a way to see yourself dear student Jessica! Norse mythology is shrouded in mystery and many things are still discovered to this day. A totally interesting culture and its immersion brings me great pleasure. Yeah… I can see it… - Jessica says this with her head down and her voice inaudible by the teacher, but Mike can hear it and covers his mouth for a laugh. The teacher who takes pleasure in Norse history and apparently he wasn't kidding. Pardon! Did I say something? Not! I thought out loud! You can proceed! Right! Thank you for your contribution so far. From now on my class really starts.

Cassius looked kind of rude at that moment. He just wanted to use some students to have a place to start and have a certain interaction with students and environment. It's common in any animal chain. The new member always tries first to seek his space in that pack. In Mike's view he has failed miserably, but there is nothing to be done. Both will have to work together for three months.

The class continues and at least an hour has passed since the teacher started giving his lecture. Mike was distracted for a few minutes. It's hard to keep an eye on something he doesn't like, but he has to do it if he wants to graduate.

Mike is already about to bow his head in resignation from today's class when Cassius starts to say something interesting, which immediately catches the boy's attention.

The chosen... Every culture has a... In Egyptian, Greek or even Catholic. There's always one who turns around and saves those people. The man or woman chosen is endowed with great power and comes in the worst possible situation. You might be thinking… Why don't you say hero outright professor? We cannot say a hero because the chosen one is the one who, in addition to saving, leaves a legacy as well. Even guide people and show them the light.

Mike listens carefully to what his teacher Cassius has just said. He remembered a Japanese movie that he likes a lot. It's very old, from the last century, in the seventies. The story is about a village that was about to be attacked and taken over by several samurai who worked for a loan shark.

Until a ronin appears in the village and decides to save her. Her reason was not specific. He knew he couldn't abandon people and let evil prevail. The unknown ronin saves the village and its inhabitants, the people who lived to breathe another day start calling the ronin “Erabareshimono”. Which means the chosen one in Japanese. Mike smiles and whispers:

Interesting…

Jessica, who was beside him writing down the class information, hears the whisper and looks in his direction, but realizes he wasn't talking to her. The girl is looking at Mike's face who is dazzled by the class. As Mike recalled the movie he'd seen in the recent past, time passed quickly and the bell rang, signaling the end of class.

Very well folks! That's it for today! Thanks for the affection and attention, see you next week! Don't forget to visit the online platform to see more about the article they will make!

Professor Cassius ends his class and leaves the room. The other students put their things inside their respective backpacks and prepare to leave too. Mike and Jessica are still in the room and she addresses him:

Looks like you enjoyed today's class! I spoke to you and was ignored… - Jessica looks down showing sadness Seriously? I'm sorry. I really didn't notice! - Mike is totally ashamed of having ignored the girl he's interested in. A hard blow to the boy. I am joking! Our! You took it seriously! Haha I'm sorry! - Mike runs a hand over his head in embarrassment. He fell for the joke so easily. They're both laughing and Mike notices that there's a promo coupon sticking out of Jessica's backpack. A coupon for an Italian restaurant near campus.

The girl picks up her things, gives Mike a smile and leaves. It's time for the two to go their separate ways. Mike is glad he at least talked to her. Now it is time to try to continue this. The boy puts his notebook in his backpack and walks towards the entrance and exit door of the room. He's the last one left, so he has to turn off the lights. Mike presses the button to turn off and the lamps are blinking, looking like they are broken. He tries to turn it on and off several times until it finally succeeds.

This college is getting too old already! Needs renovations.!

Mike walks down the hall and sees his friend Jason from afar, they nod to each other and walk towards him. Jason is smiling broadly as he looks at Mike. He now opens his arms and points at him. Mike doesn't understand what his true intentions are or what he means.

This is my boy! Congratulations man! What are you talking about ? Did I see that Jessica is in your office and that she sat next to her? How did you see it? Wasn't in class? My class ended early and then like a good friend I came to visit my friend Mike… And I am surprised to find none other than Jessica sitting next to her. See how good a friend I am? This is very suspicious, but I will say yes for now… Oh that! Enough of the bullshit… Did you talk to her at least? Yes… I did! Did you mention the Friday party? Not! I did not speak! I didn't even remember it at the time. I was surprised she sat next to me and we talked. Even if it was little. Hum interesting! But now you have to count on her luck to go! What are you going to do now ? Well… I still have basketball practice today and then I'll train with Woden! You're going to end up with yourself like this today! That is it. Woden never rests Why do you accept that crazy old man's orders? He helps me a lot. Since we met, I have never been so well mentally and physically! I understand!

Jason puts his arm around the back of Mike's head and they both walk down the hall, towards the college exit. The boys are laughing and happy. They arrive in the parking lot and Jason gets in his car, puts on sunglasses, while Mike stands there. In moments he will have his basketball practice. Jason realizes he's a little unmotivated and says:

I know you don't like basketball anymore like it used to be… Look I'm not mentioning your crazy workouts with Woden. What ? Yes… Look at your face. You are unmotivated! You are mistaken! The team needs me and I will help them! Yes, it's true. The team needs you, but you don't need them anymore. Your heart is no longer there. What? You will have to figure this out yourself! I can only wish you luck!

His best friend backs up the car quickly and drives away, leaving Mike at a loss for what he meant by all this. He stands there reflecting for a few seconds on what his friend said. Jason thinks Mike should think more about himself. The boy is not a bad basketball player, but he is only there to help his teammates, who need his skills, but his heart is not all in it, the boy is stagnant.

Maybe this is adult life starting to hit, in which in this transition a normal person starts to focus on what is really going to work or what he thinks will. Mike's mind no longer thinks about basketball and training with Woden and aiming for bigger flights like his studies.

He starts walking to the gym with his head down a little, he enters the locker room and sees his friends all there happy to see Mike greet him immediately and all the sadness he had a few moments ago was forgotten when he saw the joy of their teammates. He smiles and puts his clenched fist up there:

Come on guys! The state games are coming and we're going to do our best! Let's go! - The teammates approach and raise their hands together with Mike.

Basketball practice is on. today was a physical improvement day for practical training. Five against five on the court. Holder against reservation. Mike is on the reserve team, despite being practically a starter, he is the sixth player on the team. Which refers to one of the athletes on the team that plays the most with the other five. This role is essential to maintain the team's performance throughout the match.

Come on boys! Keep track to the end! I want intensity all the time! - Says Coach Lawrence. A former player at the university that Mike studies and has now become a university coach. The school team coach has been in the business for at least ten years and is aiming to win the state title for the first time yet. He is a tall, balding black man with a thick mustache.

Mike catches the rebound, raises his left hand to the top and uses his index finger. This means they must work the play, organize themselves and patiently pursue the point. The coach watches and nods positively at Mike's decision. the boy has a very good box to box. This term alludes to a player who has very good defensive and offensive characteristics. Mike could play both sides of the court. In the enemy's camp, Mike now clenches his fist and raises it high, saying:

Hey Manfred! Right!

The teammate Mike just called knows what to do with that gesture. He sides with the opponent responsible for marking Mike and blocks him for two seconds, enough time for Mike to get rid of his marking and be free to decide his next move, which was through the “pick and roll”. Mike does the dribble and is about to receive a double mark and passes the ball back to Manfred who was free outside the perimeter. The line that demarcates scores worth three. Manfredi receives the ball, shoots and misses. The coach whistles and ends training. He points to Mike with a gesture of going to him.

Mike… You had at least three seconds to decide between shooting and or going to Friday and laying the layup. You chose to pass the ball. You need to trust yourself. I think you could get either option right if you tried. Got it… Thank you teacher Get in the shower, Mike! See you at the next practice.

Mike walks to the locker room when Manfred stops him. His friend missed the last pitch and because of that he got lectured by the coach. Maybe he was going to apologize or something. An important attitude to keep the locker room united and in harmony.

Hey Mike! Did you see that girl who watched our practice today? Is she someone you know?

Today's practice was open to the public, as it wasn't a tactical practice or anything like that that needed to be kept hidden from opponents. So it was common to have spectators for free practice. Manfred looks towards this girl he saw, intending Mike to look at her without her realizing they were both talking about her.

Mike looks at this girl Manfred thinks he knows but she doesn't remember anyone. The boy is positively surprised. A girl as pretty as Jessica in college. She had long dark hair and was Asian.

Looks like she was interested in you… She's been watching you all practice! What ? Are you spacing ? I want to help you, my friend! Jason told me about your situation. That idiot! He is a gossip! Anyway… Go take a shower and talk to her later. I'll see what I do! One thing you are right. I can't talk to her like that!

Mike and the girl's eyes meet. Mike has never felt anything like this before, in addition to her unusual beauty, the girl gave a sign of strength just by looking only seen before when he first met Woden. His curiosity to meet the girl turns into interest. He didn't expect this to happen again. Who is she ? Does she know me? Mike is not presentable with all the sweat after training in his body.

The boy continues towards the locker room, to shower, get dressed and meet Woden later today, but a slight detour on the way wouldn't hurt. Jessica is one of Mike's interests, but there are no guarantees that he will make it or that she doesn't have a boyfriend or is with anyone. There is no commitment, he is already an adult. It's always better to work with reality and down to earth. No love disappointments. So it's worth a try.

Mike enters the locker room and heads for the shower. He washes himself thoroughly with soap, all the sweat he got during training goes down the drain. Now he uses the shampoo to clean his head. He knows he has to hurry to see the girl who was interested in him in practice. Getting Jessica's attention and on the same day finding another girl of the same level of beauty or perhaps bigger was a lot of luck, even more so in one day.

That's it Mike! It's time to shine at last! Your bachelor season is about to end! - Mike talks to himself in the shower, there are others around or near him also taking a shower but no one listens.

Mike gets out of the shower and grabs his backpack where his clothes are. In her suitcase-like backpack she had more clothes and other utensils like deodorant and perfume than books and notebooks. It was a bath towel, basketball training outfit, and a Woden training outfit. Since training with him varied, he didn't always sweat or need sportswear.

But Mike took it in case he needed it. That old man never warned in advance what he was going to teach, it could be a class in history, fighting, strength training, endurance, breathing, stretching and even martial arts from around the world, such as jiu jitsu, boxing, krav maga.

With his shower finished and his clothes on, Mike puts on a perfume like it's icing on the cake. his friends watch him and say:

Looks like Mike will see a girl! Hmm… until the end! Go make your dream come true, Mike! Thanks guys! - Says Mike.

His teammates all showed support for Mike. He is very dear to everyone for his effort and dedication. So consequently they respect and admire him. All this he deserved, Mike is not a starter and never complained about it. His teammates know how much he sacrifices and that's why he is the team's vice captain. A role invented among the players themselves for Mike. There is no way to exercise leadership in the bank and that is why this position was created.

Outside, Mike has his suitcase on one of his shoulders and looks for the mysterious girl who was watching him. He didn't see anyone on stage and assumed he had left the gym. However, he doesn't find anyone. The boy looks down in disappointment and delusion.

The woman Mike saw was too young to be a recruiter, perhaps from another college looking for technical data on the team. Mike is sad, but all is not lost. He thinks it was too frivolous to expect her to go after him. There are likely still other chances if she comes again. Mike knows he just needs to be faster next time.

The beautiful girl left. Now all that's left is to meet Woden, Mike walks towards the parking lot, his motorcycle. The boy arrives there, starts the engine and feels a chill. He looks around and sees if he doesn't have anyone around. There is nobody. It must have been just the body cooling down after training. It's almost six in the evening and Mike is out of college.

After fifteen minutes of driving his bike, Mike arrives at his destination. He looks at his cell phone to see if he has any messages and just lets his mom know where he is and it might take a while. He receives an "okay" and enters the building. Woden's house was a training ground too, it was a big, spacious place with lots of fighting gear. There is also a place reserved for growing various plants. Woden appeared to have a lot of money, but he didn't work. He always told Mike that his wealth comes and comes from selling rare items.

Woden and Mike have known each other for years, since Mike was in high school. The boy was bullied at school until one day the old man saved Mike from his attackers. Mike was delighted and sought help from Woden. So I could be your martial arts teacher. Woden was reluctant but Mike's insistence made him accept. Since then, Mike and Woden have been training and improving their body and mind almost every day.

Although times change, Mike has no more problems and doesn't get involved in fights. Mike thought Woden's classes had become obsolete. However, Woden's guide was different and helped her grow. Since Mike never had his father figure present. He disappeared shortly after he was born to his misfortune. Then Mike sees the father figure and the teacher in Woden. Keeping them together all these years

Finally, Mike enters Woden's residence and sees him meditating. He is sitting and taking a deep breath. With his long hair and white beard, plus a black eye patch. He looks to be at least fifty years old and is physically very fit, with lots of muscle and strength. It's not that Mike recognizes him, trains with him and trusts him. The boy approaches and before saying something. Woden raises his voice:

Hi Mike! Woden! How are you ? I'm fine. You won't believe it… today I talked to a very beautiful girl. It could have been two, but she left. If she left doesn't that mean you don't interest her, Mike? I have my charm! You must have felt ashamed! No, you do not have… hahaha you are getting old… But I remain wise. I cannot deny your wisdom. I'm feeling a strange energy coming from you Mike… Did something happen today? I already told you! Two beautiful girls… Tss… forgot… Get ready for your training! Change your clothes and come back here!

Ready for the next practice of the day, Mike is already properly dressed and in front of Woden awaiting instructions. They are in the room where the physical training takes place. A very spacious room by the way. The old man has a very big house that allows for this. The old man approaches the boy and starts walking in circles around Mike. He watches his student and says:

Mike! So far in your training you've been relying too much on your eyes! They are your allies, but they can be your enemies. At the same time it can predict the enemy's actions and from that you can dodge and counterattack. The eyes make sense of your other senses. Your hearing, for example, becomes weak as well as your perception. I understand! No, Mike! You do not understand! If your enemy is faster than you or you lose your eyesight for a few moments. You will be dead. Your battles are won first in your head and then in your competence. Close your eyes and take a deep breath Mike for a moment, Mike! After that open your eyes

The boy follows his master's instructions and sees the previously well-lit training room turn dark in its entirety. Mike doesn't know what Woden's intentions are yet. For now he will only remain reactive to any movement that comes. The boy takes a defensive stance.

Mike hears a noise coming from his back he turns around and doesn't feel any attack. it was a distraction, the real attack comes from the side when Mike does it. A baseball bat is hit in one of his legs. The pain is felt by the boy who almost falls to the ground but remains standing.

Is that what training is all about? Silence, boy! And try to avoid the attacks if you can! Ugh

Mike concentrates this time so as not to get hit and not fall for any more Woden tricks. This time he is prepared. He senses Woden's murderous intent this time coming from his left side. The boy turns quickly in the direction the blow turns and tries to throw a punch.

In all these years Woden had always given Mike permission to go all out and without mercy. For the purpose of your growth and training. However, Mike punches the void. He just landed in yet another feint. The club now hits him in the belly, losing his breath and this time dropping to his knees on the ground.

Mike! You are relying too much on your eyes! Didn't I tell you before this practice started? You better find a way to avoid the attacks, otherwise you won't even be able to talk to those girls... hahaha your old man….

Mike gets up once more. The training session continues for another two hours. Mike has suffered attacks in all this time and has not been able to avoid any. Anger begins to consume the boy who hasn't shown any evolution since the first minute. Which makes him extremely frustrated.

I haven't been able to dodge any blows so far! This training is useless if I can't learn or anything like that! No, Mike! This training is the most important so far! this is your biggest weakness Woden… I'm sorry, but over the years we've trained a lot. I feel you treat me like a great battle is coming. As if something big was coming! I'm just a normal college kid! You are right and wrong at the same time Mike! I still think you are the esc… What ? Nothing! Let's continue! I'll try to give you one more tip! It might help if you believed more in your instincts and combined that with your awareness. Maybe putting the two together you can see where my attacks come from? Concentrate, take a deep breath and try again. Failure is part of a human's path to success! That's pretty easy to tell what to do! I believe you, Mike! Okay…

Mike follows Woden's new instructions. He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath so he can broaden his awareness of his other senses. The first attack comes ahead this time, but Mike knows it could be a feint or actually come. The boy waits longer, until the right moment to counterattack. Mike can visualize the direction of the attack coming from his right and holds Wooden's stick. After numerous failed attempts, the boy finally succeeded. He smiles and looks towards Woden.

I got old! Don't sing victory so soon boy…

Woden takes the bat back from Mike's hand and drops it to the ground. The boy was distracted for a few seconds which were enough for Woden to deliver the second blow. Mike was so concerned about stopping the old man's first blow that he forgot that it was fighting practice and his enemy had to be immobilized completely to declare victory.

On the ground, Mike sees Woden from above reaching out his hand to help him up. This means that training is over for good. Woden congratulates Mike.

Congratulations Mike! You did it! But at what cost? a coup of two hundred! I would be dead if it was real combat! Yes, but that's what training is for! So that when the crucial moment arrives, you can use your acquired knowledge! Hmm... oh oh What was it ? I'm feeling a lot of pain! That's no problem! I will give you the medicine to get better. Finally! These remedies cure my pain in one day! Too bad they can't be found! You haven't given them to me in a long time. Yes, Mike! You had to fix the teachings through pain! Your body needed to have this memory for it to evolve! That's why I didn't medicate you! It makes perfect sense! They could addict me too! Let's go to the kitchen. It is ready for you to take. After that you can go home! Right!!!

On the way to the kitchen, Mike sees Woden's crow. Called Morrigan. Mike approaches and caresses the creature he gladly accepts. The crow is not caged or imprisoned. He is free and free to fly wherever he wants. However, this crow never ran away, he always stayed by Woden's side all these years.

Take this Mike! Tomorrow you will be better! No doubt!

The medicine Mike had just taken comes from one of the crops Woden grows and always hides. He never says where he gets these plants with miraculous effects. Even after all these years, he remains a mysterious man. Mike takes the purple liquid. It tasted bad, but it was worth drinking. This juice that Mike has had before, really heals the pain for the next day. Taking it back after a long time is a huge satisfaction.

That's it Mike… See you Friday. So… Friday… What ? Do not Forget! Until later!

Mike walks, says goodbye to Woden and walks towards his motorcycle parked outside the building. He climbs into her and once again he feels a shiver. But it's not just any shiver, it's one that senses the danger to come. Now with heightened senses he feels that someone is around, someone is watching him. It was the same feeling he got in the college parking lot. Mike gets off his bike and goes and looks around. It's late at night, there's no one at this time.

He approaches an alley nearby, walks slowly and his heart is pounding. Anyone following you, confronting your stalker is a bad idea. However, Mike's instincts are running high and he hasn't thought about it. He is ready for action. He goes deeper into the alley, feels himself approaching, and suddenly hears a cat screeching towards him. The animal is very angry with the boy who disturbed him.

Mike lets out all the air and puts his hands on his hips. All this commotion and apprehension for nothing. It was just a lost stray cat. He thinks Woden's training was over the top and that he has yet to develop his newly acquired skill further. The boy gets back on his bike and this time heads home.

When he gets home Mike goes straight to the shower and then to bed. His mother is not at home. He still feels the pain from training a few moments ago. A good night's sleep is all he needs to recover. And so he does. The boy sleeps and rests for the next day.

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