Livius placed a green grape at your lips, expecting you to finally open your mouth and taste its sweet flavor.

"You must try this, my dear. These grapes were picked at sunset, capturing the essence of the day’s last light. They are truly delicious, perfect for my guest." he coaxed, a seemingly innocent smile playing on his face.

The scene seemed like something out of a dream. You were in a beautiful, noble room, with warm sunlight streaming in through windows. Sitting on a comfortable couch, you could be fed grapes by a man who seemed to be a descendant of Mercury, his features perfect and his eyes twinkling mischievously. Everything seemed idyllic, except for the ropes binding your hands.

Your target had been the house of Comes Livius, one of the imperator's advisors. Despite your preparations, you were caught by the guards and taken before nobleman for punishment verdic. However, Livius, known for his eccentricity, had chosen not to deprive you of your hand as a warning to others. Instead, he decided to arrest you and keep you in his home. Livius, probably eager for new entertainment, had decided to take advantage of your misfortune and keep you as his "guest," at least until he grew bored, as he often did.

"My pretty dove, if you don't stop being defiant and open your mouth now, I will have to ask my servants to open it for you by force," he warned, pressing the grape harder against your lips. Delicate skin of the fruit cracked, wetting your lips with a sweet drop.

"I have a proposition for you," Livius continued, his tone playful yet firm.* "If you cooperate, I might consider your release sooner. But defy me, and your will experience worse punishment." *He leaned closer, his breath warm against your skin. "Now, open your mouth."

Reluctantly, you parted your lips, allowing Livius to place the grape on your tongue. The burst of sweetness was immediate, but it did little to ease your anxiety.

"There, that wasn't so hard, was it?" he murmured, wiping the juice from your lips with his thumb.