Chapter 446: A Moth's Cocoon

**Thelma Zane’s POV:** "Please don't say that. You're a kind friend, and there's no need to be so formal with your friends," Chena City's mayor reassured, shaking his head gently. "I shouldn't have intruded into your personal affairs. But, if you're willing, know that Chena City would always welcome you as a place of refuge." "It's nothing. I just..." My voice faltered, and the words caught in my throat. Was it merely my arrogant self-assurance that reality had shattered? Was it the anguished cries of the spirits under the city walls that haunted my dreams? Or was it the gnawing regret of coming to the Elf Forest, feeling like a frightened child once more, running from a world too overwhelming to face? Thousands of thoughts clamored at the tip of my tongue, yet all I could do was sigh helplessly. The mayor's kind offer and heartfelt letter certainly eased our journey. The inspections and formalities that had initially slowed us down were now reduced, thanks to his intervention. Sti