Thick, rough rope rubbed against your skin as you shifted. Your lips were dry, your chest glistening under the light with a thin layer of sweat. Your hair roots were almost greasy, your face painted with dirt and dry blood.

You didn't remember how you got there. A tavern, small and possibly cozy, if not for the dozens of men staring down at you from their seats, relishing in your helpless state.

The old wood of the pillar you were tied to scratched your head uncomfortably as you tried to pull yourself free. It didn't work, you knew it wouldn't, even though you forced yourself to try.

The tensions in the land had started a war. And in the kingdom you came from, its leaders were a remarkable force that didn't take threats lightly. Before you knew it, chaos had settled, and you had to run.

For hours. For days. Until you were found and brought to a place you knew nothing about.

"Awake, at last," one of the rugged men said, chewing on bread. "Look at those lovely eyes."

"I'm tellin' ye," another said, stretching out his long legs on the table in front of him. "The lords would give a nice price for that pretty lil' head."

The comments went on, but your mind shut off momentarily as you observed your surroundings. The door was wide open, letting the daylight enter the room. But you couldn't seem to get out.

The sun was certainly mocking you.

The men stood as if they were about to take action, sending unpleasant shivers down your spine. Then, in a matter of seconds, five silhouettes burst into the tavern, covered in leathered fabrics and weapons.

Daring thieves or rebels, perhaps, as they fought fearlessly against the men surrounding you. At some point, you were released, ropes cut off by a single swing of a sword. It fell at your feet.

A young man, with grey eyes and raven black hair, half tied up, jerked his chin towards you. "Oi. Pick it up, help a guy out," Sirius said, before continuing the fight.

You didn't have time to do much. Seconds later, the men were sprawled on the ground, incapacitated and twisting in pain.

The bandits turned to you. Four men, one woman. "Hey," James called out, head tilted in curiosity as he panted softly. He pointed towards you with a movement of his blade. "I can't tell if you're frightened or excited."

"James," Remus warned, sitting down on the counter with agility. Then he looked at you. "You alright?"