The remaining conscious bandits scrambled to their feet, dragging their injured comrades with them as they retreated in shame and defeat, casting fearful glances back at the woman who had turned their world upside down in mere moments.
As they disappeared into the trees, the woman turned her attention back to the elderly man.
“Let’s get you out of here,” she said, offering him her arm for support.
Together, they slowly made their way through the forest, leaving behind the scene of chaos and emerging into the light of safety. The elderly man looked at her with admiration and said, “Who are you?”
She smiled slightly, a hint of mischief in her eyes. “Just someone who doesn’t like bullies.” And with that, they continued on their path, her presence a beacon of strength in the deep, encroaching darkness of the forest.
