She smiled, a warmth in her eyes that belied the fierce warrior they had just witnessed. “You’re safe now,” she assured him, glancing around the forest as if ensuring there were no more threats.

As the sun began to pierce through the canopy, casting dappled light onto the forest floor, the woman helped the old man to his feet. Together, they began the walk back to the edge of the forest, leaving behind only footprints and the tale of a mysterious woman in uniform who tamed the wilderness and turned the tables on those who meant harm.