บท 78: Shadows in the Cabin

"Why can't they just leave me alone?" Alex whispered, clutching the crumpled letters tighter. His voice cracked with a mixture of anger and despair.

Max kept his eyes trained on the intruder, his rifle unwavering. "They won't stop because you're a threat, Alex. And threats must be eliminated."

The intruder stepped further into the cabin, their silhouette sharp and intimidating. Moonlight glinted off a knife in their hand.

"You've been quite the troublemaker," the figure sneered, their voice dripping with mockery. "We've been sent to deliver a message. Surrender, or face the consequences."

Alex's heart raced, but he forced himself to stay still. His mind screamed for him to run, but there was nowhere to go.

Max moved quickly, raising the rifle higher. "Get out now, or I'll send you back in pieces."

The figure chuckled darkly, unfazed. "Brave words. Let's see if you mean them."