With one final, defiant glance, she released him and turned her attention back to the old man. Despite the chaos and violence, her demeanor softened as she knelt beside him once more.

“Are you alright?” she asked gently, helping him to sit up. The old man’s eyes, filled with gratitude and relief, met hers.

“Thank you,” he whispered, his voice shaky but sincere. “I thought… I thought I was done for.”

“You’re safe now,” she assured him, glancing around to ensure the bandits remained subdued. “Let’s get you out of here.”