Beyond The Glade || Seungin

VIII The power of friendship

Our journey through the forest had been going on for several days. We were tired, but we didn’t lose our determination. Every step was heavy, and the changing weather conditions and constant tension drained us both physically and emotionally. Still, every day we tried to move forward, barely finding time to rest. At night, we kept watch, ready for any danger.

One evening, after another exhausting day, we reached a small clearing. It was like a moment of relief in the middle of this endless forest. We dropped our heavy backpacks and settled on the ground, trying to catch our breath. Around us, the forest seemed more peaceful, as if offering us a momentary respite.

I leaned against a tree, dropping my backpack to the ground, and looked at Jeongin. He looked exhausted, just like me, but his eyes still shone with determination. Over the past few days, our relationship had deepened. The shared struggle, fatigue, and constant threat had brought us closer, creating a strong bond that we both felt now.

“Thank you” I said quietly, looking at the boy. I wouldn't have made it without him.

Jeongin looked at me, and his fatigue gave way to a warm smile. “You don’t have to thank me” he replied. “We’re doing this together. It’s not just an escape; it’s a fight for something that matters to us.”

~🐶🦊~

We sat in silence, listening to the sounds of the forest. Despite the fatigue and pain, I felt better because of his presence. The night was cool, but the warmth of our friendship allowed me to momentarily forget the burden I carried on my shoulders.

“Do you think we’ll find what we’re looking for?” I asked, uncertain. “That the “Heart of the Forest” will help us?”

Jeongin shrugged, but I could sense conviction in his voice. “I don’t know” he admitted. “But we have to try. What we’re doing only makes sense if we don’t give up. We’re close to our goal, even if the road ahead is still uncertain.”

His words gave me encouragement. I knew that our friendship and mutual support were crucial in this difficult journey. Sitting next to each other, we felt stronger together. What connected us was now the foundation on which we based our hopes.

“I’m glad we have each other” I said after a moment. “I know it may sound cliché, but I really am glad you’re here with me.”

Jeongin looked at me and smiled. “Me too” he replied. “Together, we’ll get through whatever lies ahead.”

After a moment of silence, we got up, feeling a bit refreshed and ready to continue our journey. We gathered our things, preparing for the next leg of our trek. The night was quiet, but we knew our task was not over yet. Each day brought new challenges, but now we felt more confident and stronger, knowing we had each other.

And so, with a renewed sense of purpose and mutual support, we moved forward through the darkness of the forest, ready to face any dangers that might come our way in search of freedom and truth.