The leader groaned, struggling to stand, while the others hesitated, unsure of their next move. The woman’s eyes never wavered, her voice steady as she addressed the group.

“Leave him alone and get out of here,” she ordered, her voice carrying the authority of someone accustomed to giving commands.

But one of the braver—or perhaps stupider—bandits decided to test his luck. He lunged at her, aiming to tackle her to the ground. In a flash, she sidestepped, her reflexes sharp. With a fluid motion, she delivered a swift kick to his knee, sending him howling in pain as he collapsed to the ground.