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"Until then," she replied.

I turned and melded into the forest, the trees welcoming me like an old friend. But every step away from her felt heavier than the last. I steeled myself, focusing on the task ahead. The rival tribe leader had to be stopped.

For her. For us.

The path twisted and turned, leading me deeper into unfamiliar territories. The air grew thick with tension, the forest itself seeming to hold its breath.

As I approached the clearing where the confrontation would take place, I felt a surge of determination. I would end this threat. I would protect what mattered most.

Acacia's image filled my mind with her smile, her laughter, the way her eyes lit up when she looked at me. She was my anchor, my reason to fight.

I emerged into the open space, and there he was as the rival leader. His gaze met mine, a flicker of surprise crossing his features.

"Thornix," he acknowledged. "I didn't expect you to come alone."

"I came to settle this," I declared. "No more bloodshed. No more threats."

He sneered. "You think you can dictate terms?"

I stood tall. "I'm offering a chance for peace."

He laughed bitterly. "Peace? After all that's happened?"

"It doesn't have to continue," I insisted. "Our tribes can coexist."

He shook his head. "You're naive."

"Perhaps," I admitted. "But I'm willing to fight for it."

He stepped forward, menace in his eyes. "Then let's see how far your convictions take you."

The tension crackled between us. I prepared myself, grounding my energy in the earth beneath me.

But before either of us could make a move, a rustling emerged from the trees. Both of us turned to see Acacia stepping into the clearing.

"Acacia!" I exclaimed. "What are you doing here?"

She met my gaze, unwavering. "I couldn't let you face this alone."

The rival leader eyed her curiously. "And who might this be?"

She squared her shoulders. "Someone who believes in a better future."

He smirked. "Two against one? Hardly seems fair."

"There's no need for this," she urged. "We can find another way."

I moved to her side. "I told you to stay back."

She glanced at me. "And miss all the fun?"

Despite the gravity of the situation, a smile tugged at my lips. "You're impossible."

"So I've been told."

The leader frowned. "Enough of this. If you won't fight, then surrender."

I shook my head. "We won't back down."