The leader’s hand trembled, beads of sweat trickling down his forehead. For a moment, the forest held its breath. Then, with a shaky sigh, he lowered the gun, defeat slumping his shoulders. He turned, gesturing for his men to follow. They needed no further urging, retreating hastily into the depths of the forest, their bravado shattered.

The woman waited until the sounds of their retreat faded before turning her attention back to the old man. She helped him sit up, checking for injuries with gentle hands. He looked at her with gratitude, his voice a hoarse whisper.

“Thank you,” he said, awe-struck. “I thought… I thought they’d…”