Chapter 13: mister

Mike walked carefully through the forest, his movements slow to avoid jostling Eli, who clung tightly to his back. The boy seemed more at ease now, though his face was still pale from exhaustion and fear.

"So, Eli," Mike said, glancing back over his shoulder. "You said you got separated during an evacuation. What happened?"

Eli took a shaky breath before replying. "The village chief was evacuating us. There were monsters attacking our village—huge ones. My parents and I were running with the group, but… I tripped. They didn't notice, and I got left behind." His voice wavered, and he looked down, his small hands gripping Mike's scales. "I… I don't even know if they're safe now."

Mike's chest tightened. He could hear the pain in Eli's voice, and it reminded him of his own confusion and fear when he first woke up in this world. "I'm sorry, kid," Mike said softly. "That sounds rough."

Eli nodded, his voice barely a whisper. "It is. I was so scared… I didn't think I'd make it. But then you found me."

Mike gave a small, reassuring growl. "Yeah, lucky for both of us, huh? Now we've got each other."

Eli managed a faint smile before his expression turned serious again. "mr.Monster… do you think you can help me? The monsters that attacked… they're still out there, right?"

Mike's steps slowed. He thought for a moment, his mind running through the possibilities. "You're saying the monsters that attacked your village are still nearby?"

Eli nodded, his grip tightening. "Yes. They destroyed everything. I don't know if the chief or the others were able to get away… But I can't go back alone. I… I don't want anyone else to get hurt."

Mike let out a deep breath, glancing up at the trees above as sunlight filtered through the leaves. This kid's been through hell, and now he wants me to face off against whatever tore his village apart?

But as he looked at Eli, the boy's determination shining through his fear, Mike felt his resolve solidify. "Alright, Eli," he said, his voice firm. "I'll help you. We'll deal with those monsters together."

Eli's eyes lit up with hope. "Really? You'll do it?"

Mike nodded. "Yeah. But first, we need to find a safe spot for you to rest. You're not exactly in good shape."

Eli gave a small laugh, though it was tinged with nervousness. "Okay. I'll do whatever you say."

Mike grinned, baring his sharp teeth. "Good. Stick with me, kid. We're going to make sure those monsters regret messing with your village."

With that, he continued through the forest, his senses on high alert. The stakes had just gotten higher, and Mike knew the battle ahead wouldn't be easy. But for the first time, he felt like he was fighting for something that mattered.