The shouting started before the village gate.
"Get lost!" Zeyn's voice carried across the packed earth road, sharp and unwavering. His stance was calm, but his eyes locked like steel on the stranger blocking his path.
The man sneered, arms folded. "Bold words for a brat. I just asked about the forest. Tell me where it is, and I'll be gone. Unless you're hiding something."
"I'll say it again," Zeyn replied evenly, brushing dust from his sleeve. "There's nothing here for you. Leave."
The man clicked his tongue, tossing off his jacket with a swagger. "You think words will stop me?"
Zeyn sighed, shaking his head. "There's no need for that jacket."
By the time the fabric hit the ground, he was already moving.
*Dagh- Dagh- Duagh!
His body twisted like water, one hand catching the stranger's wrist and spinning him off-balance. An elbow slammed into his chest, a sweep clipped his leg, and a heel struck his stomach.
The man staggered back, gasping.
