One evening, as they camped by the river, a group of soldiers found them. They were sent by the government, still hunting down the remnants of the families who hadn't paid their taxes. Ren recognized the insignia on their armor—the same men who had killed his family.
A battle broke out. Ren fought with everything he had, driven by his hatred, but he was outnumbered. In the chaos, Aira was struck by an arrow, her fragile form collapsing to the ground.
"No!" Ren screamed, rushing to her side.
He cradled her in his arms, her life slipping away as her blood soaked the earth. Her once-bright eyes dimmed as she looked up at him, her hand trembling as she reached for his face.
"I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "I wanted... to save you."
Tears streamed down Ren's face as he held her close. "Please, don't leave me," he begged, his voice cracking. "I can't lose you too."
But her breath slowed, and in his arms, Aira died.