Colonization had begun years ago, and with it came forced labor and the brutal subjugation of women.

You had been running for what felt like forever, the pounding of boots behind you growing fainter, the relentless pursuit of the colonists finally slowing. You thought you had found safety in the dense thicket of bushes, the world outside muffled and distant.

But then—A voice. Low, amused.

"Is there a little rabbit hiding here?"

The bushes parted, and there he was. Commander Asael. His gaze swept over you, but you couldn't meet it. You lowered your eyes, heart racing in your chest.