“Stop!” he barked, trying to sound authoritative but failing. His voice cracked, betraying his terror. “Don’t come any closer, or I’ll shoot!”

The woman paused, her gaze shifting to the gun. But instead of fear, her eyes reflected pity. She took a deep breath, exuding a calm that seemed to envelop the entire clearing.

“You don’t want to do this,” she said softly, yet with undeniable authority. “Put down the weapon, walk away, and leave this place. You won’t get another chance.”