They crossed the forest in the dark, accompanied only by the rustling of leaves and the occasional whisper of the night wind. Finally, after traveling for what seemed like forever, they arrived at the outskirts of a small village protected by a tall rock cliff. The sparkling light from the windows of the house greeted them, providing a little warmth in the cold night.
Kai led the little boy to the front door of a house that looked deserted. He knocked lightly, and a middle-aged woman opened the door quickly, her eyes flashing with deep worry.
"Kai, what happened?" the woman asked, her voice filled with worry.
Kai explained the incident briefly, but firmly. The woman breathed a sigh of relief, before pulling them into the warm house. "Thank you, Lily," Kai said, gratitude clearly shining in his eyes.
Lily nodded, her eyes looking at the little boy who was still shaking beside Kai. "What's your name, darling?" he asked the child gently.
The little boy stared at Kai for a moment before answering uncertainly, "I... I'm Taro, Miss Lily."
Lily smiled gently, stroking Taro's head with great tenderness. "You're safe now, Taro. Don't worry anymore."
Kai was relieved to see Taro smile a little, his previously pale face starting to radiate a little color. However, deep in his heart, there was an unspoken sense of unease. What actually happened tonight? Why did he feel so close to this child, as if they had a deeper bond than just a casual meeting?