Flames roared around me, thick smoke making it impossible to see or breathe. I felt trapped, panic setting in as the heat grew unbearable. Suddenly, through the haze, a figure appeared—Mei. Without hesitation, she lifted me over her shoulder, strong and sure. As we emerged into fresh air, she gently set me down and knelt beside me, her brown eyes full of concern.

“Are you okay?” she asked, her voice steady despite the chaos.