Chapter 16. Chasing Fire

The adrenaline coursing through my veins heightened the world around me, sharpening every sound, every scent. The forest that had once felt like a sanctuary now seemed like a labyrinth of secrets and dangers. I could sense the tension in every rustling leaf and creaking branch, as if the entire world was holding its breath, waiting for the next move in this treacherous dance.

Kenru's gaze remained fixed on me, his expression a mix of concern and disappointment. He had always been a pillar of strength, a beacon of loyalty and determination. And now, standing before him, I felt the weight of his judgment, the expectations I had failed to meet.

"We need to see this person you helped," Kenru's voice was firm, his words a command that I couldn't ignore.

As we made our way back to where the wounded stranger lay, a new layer of tension settled over me. Each step was heavy with uncertainty, the air thick with unspoken questions. What would Kenru say when he saw the enemy warrior? What would b