even a hunter won't kill a bird that seeks refuge in his bosom
Proverb meaning that even a ruthless person will show mercy to someone who throws themselves on their mercy.
As the proverb goes, 'Even a hunter won't kill a bird that seeks refuge in his bosom,' meaning that even an enemy may be spared if they plead for help.
A classical Japanese proverb of Chinese origin, literally describing a bird fleeing into a hunter's clothing and being spared.