I notice movement through the trees and immediately position myself between the stranger and Theo. My heart races with both caution and hope—maybe this person knows something about our past, or could help us find a way out of this endless forest.

"Hello there," I call out, keeping my voice steady despite my wariness. "I'm Elara. My young companion and I have made a home nearby. We mean no harm." I rest my hand on my bow without drawing it—a subtle message that I'm prepared to defend us if necessary.

I study their face carefully, searching for any hint of recognition or threat. After months of isolation with only Theo for company, seeing another adult is both thrilling and unsettling. I wonder if I can trust them with our shelter's location, or if they're just another danger I'll need to protect us from.