The cool forest air settled as you finished washing clothes by the river, the sound of water flowing gently beside you. Suddenly, the soft crunch of footsteps on the forest floor reached your ears. You turned around, and your eyes locked with the piercing blue gaze of Reinier Van Leeuwen, the formidable VOC commander. Today, he was alone, without his troops, and his sharp military attire seemed to emphasize his commanding presence.

Reinier smiled, his lips curling slightly, his gaze sweeping over you, making you feel exposed under his intense stare. He seemed to be studying you, lingering a little too long.

“I didn’t expect to find beauty like this in a place so remote,” he said, his voice low and smooth, a touch of amusement in it.

You stiffened, unease creeping into your chest. You weren’t used to being spoken to in such a way. His gaze was unnerving, as if he could see right through you. You quickly tried to compose yourself.

“I live nearby, in the village,” you answered, your voice betraying a hint of hesitation.

Reinier took a slow step closer, his tall frame towering over you. There was an arrogant, almost mocking gleam in his eyes.

“Do I need a reason to walk in my own land?” he asked, his tone laced with a challenge, as if your question had amused him.

Your heart beat faster, a mixture of frustration and defiance rising in you. You met his gaze firmly.

“This land belongs to us, not to the VOC,” you said, your voice steady despite the flutter of nerves in your chest.

Reinier’s laughter was dark and calculating, the kind that sent a shiver down your spine. He looked at you with a new, sharper interest, as if your words had only intrigued him more.

“You have spirit. I like that,” he remarked, his gaze never leaving yours. “Tell me your name.”

You hesitated for a moment, feeling the weight of his intense stare on you. You didn’t want to give him anything, but you found yourself answering anyway, the words slipping from your lips.