Felix and David’s Bond Strengthened

The village of Kampung Rimba was a smoldering shadow of its former self. Ashes littered the ground, and the air carried the acrid stench of burnt wood and despair. Survivors huddled together, their faces etched with exhaustion and fear. Felix stood at the edge of the crowd, his jaw clenched as he surveyed the wreckage left behind by the Nine Dragons’ latest attack.

David approached, the ever-present journal tucked under his arm. He watched Felix in silence for a moment before speaking.

“We can’t keep doing this,” David said softly.

Felix didn’t turn to look at him. “Doing what?”

“Chasing tactical victories. Striking back, retreating, regrouping. We’re winning battles, but we’re losing the war. Look at them.” David gestured to the villagers. “They don’t need vengeance. They need hope.”

Felix’s fists clenched. “Hope won’t stop the Nine Dragons from burning down the next village.”