Its a trap/ A spy on the inside?

With an unyielding determination echoing in each step, Saru carved an unwavering path deeper into the heart of the dense forest. The impending clash and the looming threat to Yuki's safety bore heavily on his heart, but his commitment to safeguarding her remained resolute. The dense woods enfolded him in an almost mystical hush, with towering trees casting ethereal shadows that heightened his senses. Taking a moment to survey the surroundings with precision, his keen eyes found a signal flare within his pocket. Igniting it with an unwavering purpose, the flare's fiery brilliance transformed the environment into a beacon of hope for the rebels, who awaited his signal in the distance. A unified front was emerging against the encroaching danger. Recognizing the monumental challenge, Saru embraced his role as a leader, shielding Yuki from imminent threats. Fear and determination quickened his heartbeat, every rustle of leaves intensifying his senses and surging his veins with adrenaline. Purposeful steps drew him closer to the enigma concealed within the forest's heart, fully aware that the destiny of his people hung in the balance. In an unforeseen twist, assassins materialized, emissaries of the kingdom of death, brandishing arrest warrants for Saru, known as the Mad Wolf, and his brother. Saru unsheathed his sword with swiftness, while Raven, his fellow rebel, conjured a fireball that incinerated one of the assailants. Raven's voice sliced through the air, saturated with determination: "To the abyss with them, Saru. Let's halt their advance right here." A wry chuckle escaped Saru's lips, "You're right, Raven. It's time to bring this to its climax." With seamless yet potent motion, Saru lunged at the nearest assassin, his sword gleaming amidst the dappled light, plunging into an unrelenting duel. Amidst fervent combat, Saru remarked, "I never imagined the king would unleash such skilled adversaries against a solitary target." Each sweep of his blade radiated unwavering resolve, meeting the assassin's strikes head-on. The clash of steel resonated through the air as they grappled, both warriors resolute in their pursuit of dominance. The forest itself bore witness to their fierce engagement, a living testament to their indomitable determination. As the battle raged on, Saru's determination blazed even more fervently. Against all odds, he stood unwavering in his commitment to protect his people and ensure Yuki's safety. Amidst the reverberating clash of swords and the blazing fire of rebellion within him, Saru pressed forward, ready to confront the adversities that awaited in this perilous struggle. Suddenly, a distant gunshot shattered the air, and Saru's eyes widened as searing agony surged through his body. Glancing downward, the harsh reality struck: he had been shot. "Impossible!" he gasped. From the shadows emerged a figure, Yuki held captive with a bag over her head. "Seems your village offers little resistance," the man taunted. Fuelled by anger, Saru rose to his feet despite the bullet lodged in his abdomen. "Hey, my friend, when you wield that gun, your aim should be for the kill," Saru retorted with defiance. The Mad Wolf appeared behind the man, a shotgun pressed against his skull. The man's words were abruptly silenced by a bullet that obliterated his skull, leaving him lifeless on the forest floor. As Yuki rolled, the bag slipped from her head, revealing her steadfast gaze. Saru sank to the ground, clutching his stomach, while Yuki and a group of healers hastened to his side, commencing the healing process—a testament to their unbreakable bond and their resolve to face impending challenges, regardless of the price. "Don't falter, Saru. Our journey persists," Yuki's words held both encouragement and urgency, her healing efforts proving inadequate as Saru struggled to stand. Beside him, Raven knelt down, dagger drawn. Deliberately, he made a kudd on his wrist and extended it, saying, "Here, Saru. Drink my blood." Saru grasped Raven's wrist and began to drink, a transfusion of determination and unity amidst the tumultuous clash surrounding them. With the hole in his stomach gradually closing, Saru managed to sit up, his gratitude evident. "Thank you, Raven." Saru extended his hand, a gesture of gratitude, camaraderie, and the need for assistance. Raven took his hand, aiding Saru to his feet before firmly shaking it, sealing a pact of shared resolve. Saru contemplated before speaking his thoughts. "Have you both realized that this ambush suggests a setup? The king shouldn't know of this place or where Yuki was staying." Raven and the Mad Wolf exchanged glances and shrugged. Saru looked at Yuki without uttering a word. "Yes, but it's odd that we were ambushed in such a hidden spot, sealed off with a spell that only certain people can bypass. It's as if there was a spy on the inside," Saru sighed before sitting on the forest floor. "The perplexing question is, who would be foolish enough to betray us?"

Cutting to the kingdom of Death days before the attack:

The King sat in his throne room, engrossed in conversation with someone as they scrutinized a sprawled-out map on the table. "If you intercept me at point A and swiftly move to point B, you'll encounter Saru and his gang. You'll also find Raven the hunter and The Mad Wolf ripe for arrest." The King's laughter exuded satisfaction as he rewarded the informant with gold and a firm handshake, sealing the deal for the impending plan.

Returning to the present:

Saru laughed it off, though the tension was palpable. "Well, I suppose we should call it a night. I'm relieved things went smoothly. Heaven forbid if the assassins had succeeded." Saru, Raven, Yuki, and the Mad Wolf swiftly departed, scattering to their respective villages, where they would await their next meeting. As Saru neared the edge of his village, he glanced at the graveyard. A girl knelt beside a grave. He approached and knelt beside her. "Hey, whose grave is this?" The girl startled until she recognized Saru, the village's hero. "It's my late brother's. He passed away during the village attack." Saru scanned the surroundings before leaning in closer. "I know your brother used to be a spy. Could you possibly replicate his skills?" The girl paused before placing her hand on her lap. 'Well, I could; after all, he did train me before his passing." Saru smirked and handed the girl 500 gold coins. "For now, you're working under me. I want you to spy on Yuki. For some reason, something didn't sit right with me today." The girl laughed and shooed him away as she felt someone approaching. Saru stood up and looked at the moon before turning to Yuki. "Well, Saru, let's call it a night. It's rather late." Saru nodded as he walked into the house and closed the door behind them. He sat on the bed and closed his eyes. "Goodnight, Yuki."