Leaving The Dark Forest

David's eyes slowly opened, and the world gradually came into focus. He felt a distinct change within himself, an indescribable surge of energy coursing through his cells, revitalizing him.

As his vision cleared, he noticed his mother Gwen kneeling by his bedside, her face etched with concern and exhaustion. However, as their eyes met, her expression transformed into one of immense relief.

"David? Oh, thank goodness you're okay!" She immediately pulled her four-year-old son into a tight embrace.

David squirmed in confusion, furrowing his brow as he tried to recall what had happened. The last thing he remembered was an intense pain, as if his blood was boiling from within.

A soft rustling caught his attention, and he turned to see a small golden furball shifting on the pallet beside him. It was a tiny sabertooth cub, with round amber eyes gazing up at him.

Despite the cub's sharp teeth and claws, David felt an inexplicable connection to the peculiar creature. Acting on instinct, he rea