As I frantically searched for a solution to escape the chaotic situation, I started contemplating my available choices. On one hand, I noticed that despite my relatively slender build compared to my past life, I still possessed a surprising amount of strength. However, as the colossal bandit leader, towering at an intimidating height of nearly 8 feet, approached me, it became evident that he could easily overpower me with a single effortless strike. As I considered my predicament, an inconvenient truth became apparent: the prisoners were not exactly eager to join the fight, and their cooperation was crucial for finding our way out. I turned around and shouted, "You guys make a run for it down the river, and I'll..." Alas, they had vanished into thin air. Well, there goes their gratitude for my heroic efforts. It seemed I was left to my own devices, with no assistance in sight. I needed to figure out my next move all by myself. In a state of frantic desperation, I scoured the surroundings for any semblance of a solution, carefully weighing my available options.
Oh, wow! As I looked around, I couldn't help but notice the impressive titansteel cage door, which apparently was my only lifeline in this dire situation. Of course, using it as a shield would be a brilliant idea! I mean, those perfectly spaced 6-inch gaps between the bars would clearly protect me from any weapon thrown my way. And swinging that massive door at the approaching bandit leader? Oh, that would definitely make me look like a graceful acrobat, not a clumsy idiot! But hey, let's not forget my amazing wit. I'm sure a charming conversation will convince these hardened criminals to kindly point me to the nearest town. I mean, who wouldn't be persuaded by a desperate traveler stumbling upon their secret hideout? It's definitely a foolproof plan!
“Oh great and mighty bandit leader, I beseech you with the utmost sincerity. As I find myself trapped in this unfortunate misunderstanding, I can't help but marvel at your hospitality and desire to be left undisturbed. Clearly, my presence here is a mere inconvenience to your illustrious gang of lawbreakers. I mean, who would enjoy me stumbling upon a secret hideout and interrupting your nefarious activities? In my quest to be the most unbothersome individual possible, I humbly request your guidance. See, I'm just a simple wanderer, innocently passing through your den of thieves. Could you possibly take a moment from your busy schedule of pillaging and plundering to kindly point me in the direction of the nearest town? I understand that my audacity to ask such a favor is truly astounding, but I trust in your magnanimity and your desire to assist random travelers who accidentally stumble upon your lair. Oh wise bandit leader, I am fully aware that my plea may fall on deaf ears, given your overwhelming desire to keep your hideout a secret. Nevertheless, I couldn't resist the opportunity to disturb your peace and test the limits of your patience. After all, what's a little inconvenience among felons? So, with my deepest and utmost gratitude, I thank you for considering my request, knowing full well that your reaction will be nothing short of delightful.” I laid it on thick hoping if nothing else to confuse and distract him a little bit longer while I thought up a new plan.
"What'd ya just say? Too many fancy words I didn't get. You tryna make me look dumb? Don't matter since you let them prisoners go. You're gonna die right here, right now!" In that instant, Bragda lunged towards me, his dual war axes menacingly elevated, poised to cleave me asunder like a hunk of firewood. Despite his considerable bulk, his movement exhibited the grace and swiftness akin to an Olympic sprinter, hurtling towards me with unwavering determination. I was certain I was fucked and not in any way fun.
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In a state of panic, I frantically considered what actions I could take to ensure my own survival. Swiftly, I evaded the initial swing of the axe and swiftly retreated a significant distance. Surprisingly, I appeared to possess greater speed than my assailant, which was logical considering my leaner and lighter build. Realizing this advantage, I made a decision to evade the axes altogether and focus on finding the fastest possible escape route. Relentlessly, he continued to pursue me, repeatedly launching rapid and precise attacks. I skillfully evaded his strikes, occasionally using the cage door I inexplicably still held as a makeshift shield. Engaged in this intense game of cat and mouse for what felt like an eternity, I suddenly observed a faint red glow emanating from him, accompanied by an increase in his speed and strength. "His Berserker Rage is activating! That little troublemaker is in deep shit now!" exclaimed one of the disheveled bandits, who had formed a ring around our impromptu duel.
The situation was rapidly deteriorating, and I realized I needed to take decisive action and escape before things spiraled further out of control. As I cautiously maneuvered, struggling to evade his relentless attacks, my attention was suddenly drawn to the captivating woman who had been in the cage. She was standing at the edge of the forest, signaling for my attention. In that moment, I made a firm decision on what needed to be done. Completing one final circle around Bragda, I positioned myself with my back facing the girl, preparing for a critical move. I patiently awaited the moment when Bragda lifted both his axes, reaching the highest point of their swing. Seizing the opportunity, I hurled the cage door with all my might, aiming directly at his waist, hoping to disrupt his balance and create an opening for me to make a swift getaway, breaking through the bandits' defensive line.
To our collective shock and horror, the cage door soared through the air with astonishing speed and precision, akin to a colossal titansteel frisbee. However, its impact surpassed all expectations. Instead of merely toppling or staggering Bragda, the door tore through his abdomen, cleaving him in two and unleashing a torrent of blood, entrails, and gore upon the surrounding crowd. In its deadly trajectory, the door continued its rampage, claiming the lives of three more bandits before vanishing into the distance without any sign of deceleration. Paralyzed by disbelief, I stood motionless, unable to process the gruesome scene unfolding before me. It was only when the upper half of the bandit leader's body thudded to the ground, accompanied by his horrified shriek, that I snapped back to reality. Without hesitation, I sprinted towards the girl, striving to maintain composure despite my shaken state. Surprisingly, the remaining bandits paid no heed to my abrupt departure, allowing me to swiftly pass them by.
As soon as I reached her side, I urgently said, "No time for questions! We need to get out of here! Show me the way." Without uttering a single word, she immediately complied, sprinting ahead and guiding me into the depths of the forest.