"The forest was known among the villagers as a place full of mysteries. Towering trees reached high into the sky, their branches intertwined to form a dark canopy that covered the sky. A gentle wind blew, carrying the sound of rustling leaves and the occasional growl of lurking wild animals from the distance."
"On that cold morning, Siu Jou stood at the edge of the forest, gazing into the darkness, which seemed filled with threats. He had heard rumors about a child who went missing yesterday afternoon while playing near the woods. No one dared to venture too deep, as there were fierce animals that often attacked without warning."
"However, Siu Jou was not afraid. He knew that if he didn't act quickly, the child would become the next victim. With calm and steady steps, he took a deep breath and stepped into the darkness."
His footsteps touched the damp ground covered with dry leaves. He observed his surroundings carefully. A small knife was tucked into his pocket for protection, and in his hand, he held a wooden staff he had taken from a large tree upon entering the forest.
"Where are you, little one?" Siu Jou whispered softly, his voice flat yet precise.
After walking a few steps, he found small footprints on the wet ground. The tracks led into the thick bushes. He paused for a moment, stared at the footprints intently, then followed them. A few steps later, he heard faint crying from the right.
Siu Jou moved slowly, following the sound. The tangled bushes concealed a small figure trembling behind them. The child looked terrified, face wet with tears and sweat.
"Relax," Siu Jou whispered coldly but gently. He reached out his hand, helping the child to stand. "I will take you out of here."
Suddenly, from the shadows of a large tree, a rustling sound was heard loudly. A wild animal—a young tiger, large and threatening—appeared slowly, glaring at them with glowing red eyes. Siu Jou knew this was a great danger.
Without panic, Siu Jou directed his staff toward the tiger, ready to protect the child behind him. He understood that his main strength was not just violence but calmness and bravery.
The tiger lunged fiercely, trying to attack. Siu Jou moved swiftly, dodging and striking with his staff. The sound of a hard collision echoed through the air. The child screamed in fear, but Siu Jou remained calm, focused on warding off the beast.
In an instant, Siu Jou managed to scare the tiger away with a precise strike to the head. The animal howled in pain and ran into the bushes, leaving a trail of blood on the ground.
Siu Jou looked at the frightened, trembling child. He bent down and gently patted the child's head.
"It's safe now. Come on, let's get out of here," he said flatly, but with a voice full of determination.
They continued their journey toward the edge of the forest, where sunlight began to shine on the wet leaves. After walking for a while, they arrived at a place where the village road was visible in the distance.
Siu Jou looked at the child, ensuring he was safe. Though his face remained cold, his heart felt relieved to have saved that fragile life.
However, deep inside, Siu Jou knew that this adventure was just the beginning. Greater secrets and dangers lurked in the depths of the dark forest. He vowed to return to uncover all the mysteries hidden within.