Herman imperceptibly moved his arms and legs, making sure that mobility had returned to him. Then, in one swift motion, he scooped up palms full of soft earth and threw it in Mark's face.

The leader fired in surprise, but the bullet entered the tall tree trunk on the other side of the ravine.

Still confused in his movements, Herman rushed to Mark, immediately climbing onto the ledge. Then, grabbing the barrel of the rifle, he moved it across Mark's face, breaking his nose. Not allowing the leader to come to his senses, Herman grabbed him by the collar of his camouflage jacket and threw him to the ground.

But...