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Chapter 9 - Beneath the Firelight

🌙 Episode 9 –

Page 1 – Campfire Aftermath

The forest is quiet after the battle. Ranveer has left. Manish snores lightly, exhausted. Ananya sits beside Karan, who is leaning against a rock, his hands trembling from the raw power he used.

Ananya (softly):

"You're hurt… let me see."

Karan tries to hide his arm, embarrassed.

Karan:

"It's nothing. Just… a scratch."

---

Page 2 – Gentle Care

Ananya takes his hand anyway, gently wiping the cuts with a strip of cloth she tore from her dress. Her long hair falls forward, brushing Karan's arm. He stiffens, flustered.

Karan (thinking):

"Why… why does my chest feel heavier than any battle?"

---

Page 3 – Emotional Talk

Close-up of Ananya's calm but serious eyes as she ties the cloth.

Ananya:

"You know… when you stood in front of me today, I thought you'd die."

(pauses, voice softer)

"But… you didn't. You fought like… like a warrior protecting something precious."

Karan lowers his gaze, unsure what to say.

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Page 4 – Vulnerability

Karan looks at the fire, his expression conflicted.

Karan:

"I wasn't strong enough before… I couldn't protect anyone. But now… if this power means I can keep you safe, keep all of us safe—then I'll use it. Even if it destroys me."

Ananya looks at him in surprise, her lips parting slightly.

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Page 5 – Subtle Connection

The fire crackles between them. Silence for a moment. Ananya smiles faintly, her cheeks pink under the glow.

Ananya (soft):

"You're a fool… but a good one."

She rests her head lightly on his shoulder. Karan's eyes widen, heart pounding.

Karan (thinking, stunned):

"Ananya…"

---

Page 6 – Gentle Cliffhanger

Wide shot of the campfire under the starry night. Ananya dozes lightly against Karan's shoulder, while he sits frozen, staring at the flames — unsure if this moment is real.

📢 Narration (bottom text):

"Strength may win battles… but bonds forge the will to survive."

⚡ TO BE CONTINUED… ⚡

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