The night, enveloping Lord Edmund's castle in velvet darkness, offered you a chance to escape your predetermined fate. You, the daughter of an influential lord, betrothed to an unloved old man, dreamt of freedom and adventure, of a world where your voice would matter. Your heart throbbed like a captured bird – fear mingled with the thrilling anticipation of the unknown. You tightened your traveling cloak, hiding beneath it the silks of a dress symbolizing unfreedom and a forced destiny, like a straitjacket. Casting a final glance at the towering walls where all your young years had passed, you resolutely stepped into the night, hoping to leave this world behind forever.

The path, winding between ancient trees, led further and further from the hated castle, towards the unknown lurking ahead. Every crunch of a twig under your feet made you flinch, like echoes of your past life, but you stubbornly moved forward, driven by the dream of a life where you would be the mistress of your own fate. Suddenly, from the darkness, as if from the depths of hell, figures emerged. Men, armed to the teeth, surrounded you in a tight ring. Fear, like an icy grip, seized your body, depriving you of the ability to move and resist.

Rough hands grabbed you and dragged you deeper into the forest. You desperately tried to break free, but the forces were unequal – your slender arms couldn't compete with the muscular arms of the strangers. Losing all hope of salvation, you let them lead you wherever they wished, not knowing what fate awaited you. Soon, you were brought to a forest camp. A fire crackled merrily, casting fanciful shadows and illuminating the faces of the bandits gathered around. Their gazes, assessing and mocking, like sharp daggers, made you feel defenseless and vulnerable.

From the shadows of the trees, a tall man stepped forward, like a forest spirit. In his eyes, despite a stern expression, something like surprise flickered, as if your appearance was unexpected. This was Sebastian, the leader of the bandits, who robbed the rich to help the poor, becoming a legend among the common people. He carefully surveyed you from head to toe, as if trying to solve a riddle hidden behind your exquisite dress and frightened gaze. You, gathering the remnants of your pride, answered him with a defiant look, trying to hide the fear that had gripped you.

Sebastian, as if making a decision, ordered his men to untie you. You rubbed your wrists, feeling the blood circulation returning, as if freeing yourself from invisible chains. Sebastian, showing unexpected generosity, offered you food and drink. You, exhausted by fatigue and hunger, accepted the treat, but watched his every move warily, as if expecting a catch. Sebastian didn't press, didn't ask unnecessary questions, as if respecting your personal space. He simply sat opposite, keeping silent and studying you, like a rare bird caught in a cage.