I observe people I recognize from the village running in every direction, alongside a few unfamiliar figures shrouded by the darkness of the full moon. Some of them are equipped with bows, a mixture of long and short bows, and they wear hoods while carrying short swords, daggers, and arrow bags on their backs. "Bandits," I mutter to myself.

I realize I'm in danger as they have bows and, even from a distance, could pose a threat. It's somewhat satisfying to see the people who have bullied me over the years running terrified, but I wish I could see the expressions on their faces.

I decide to circle around the back of my house, then slip into the familiar forest, making sure not to be spotted. I know this forest like the back of my hand, having spent more time there than in my own house. I often wandered through it and took daily strolls, so I'm well-acquainted with all the hiding spots and shortcuts. I even placed small markers in the forest during my strolls, initially meant for finding my way out of the village if I ever left. Now, with nowhere else to go, I'm unsure of the nearest village or its name.

Nevertheless, I cautiously navigate from one bush to another, trying to get closer to observe the situation more clearly. I wonder why these bandits would target our village, as there doesn't seem to be much to gain aside from wheat, wood products, and weapons from a random visitor. They all appear to possess superior weaponry already.

I finally find a hidden position inside a bush, which allows me a good vantage point. The bandits are busy capturing everyone they can and placing them in a cage. It dawns on me that they are taking prisoners, likely to sell them.

As I watch the proceedings, it becomes increasingly clear that they intend to sell us. They are capturing those who appear strong or based on their appearance alone. Realizing my own vulnerability, I shiver, knowing that I'm neither strong nor striking in appearance. They would probably dispose of me rather than selling me, which terrifies me.

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I decide to remain hidden and wait it out since the bandits aren't setting fire to anything, and there are no torches lit. The village won't be burnt down, and everyone has either escaped or been captured. The bandits are gathering in the market area near the cage, indicating that they may leave soon.

The sun begins to rise, but the bandits are still present, huddled in groups, talking and eating. They are too far away for me to hear what they're saying.

Realizing that my current hiding spot is less effective during the day when the sun shines directly on it, I slowly get up and move away, making sure not to be spotted. I survey my surroundings, pondering where to go next.

The thought of becoming a forest hermit briefly crosses my mind, but I quickly dismiss it. Surviving in the forest would be challenging, as it's mainly overgrown with weeds. The bushes are just larger clusters of weeds, difficult to clear. I'd need at least a month to create an area for growing wheat. Moreover, my physical weakness and lack of hunting skills or equipment make hunting impossible.

I know that I won't survive without my farm and the pond. The pond regenerates from rain, ensuring a reliable source of water. I can catch rainwater in a bucket for drinking.

I decide to check my house and the area around it, relieved that no bandits have reached that part of the village. I quickly harvest all the nearly mature wheat, saving some for seeds. I disassemble my makeshift bed of wheat strands and gather everything, then run into the forest, finding a secluded spot to create a crude bag from the materials I have.

Returning to my house, I grab the wooden tools and the sturdy stick, which I used as a pretend sword. Now, I'm prepared to leave the house.

However, my departure is abruptly halted as I notice a group of three bandits heading towards the forest I had been in earlier. They must have seen me enter but not leave. They carry daggers and short swords, wear cloth hoods, and have wooden chest plates with leather trousers. Their footwear is concealed by the grass, which I assume are wooden pattens.

Fortunately, they weren't looking in my direction when I stepped outside, sparing me from detection. Yet, I'm now trapped within my house.