The Cottage

As they ran through the woods, Fidel and Ciara could hear the men closing in. "We have to keep going," Fidel urged, his voice low and urgent. "We can't let them catch us."

Ciara nodded, her eyes fixed on the children. "We have to protect them," she agreed.

After what seemed like hours of running, they saw a glimmer of light through the trees. "Look," Ciara said, her voice filled with hope. "A village."

They stumbled into the village, exhausted and desperate. Fidel approached the villagers, who eyed them warily. "Please," Fidel begged. "You have to help us. We're being hunted. For the sake of the children, please take us in."

An elderly woman stepped forward, her face softening. "Come," she said. "We'll give you shelter."

They were led to a small cottage on the outskirts of the village. Fidel and Ciara collapsed onto the floor, exhausted. The children, sensing their relief, began to cry.