Chapter 2

While strolling through the forest, my feet were already in agony. Not only that, but I was also growing weary from the constant walking. I yearned to find a spot where I could sit down and take a rest, yet I had come across none thus far.

As I scanned my surroundings in search of a resting place, I noticed countless trees and bushes observing me from all directions. The gentle breeze brushed against my skin, creating a soothing sensation, while the melodious chirping of birds filled my ears. The fresh air provided a sense of relaxation throughout my journey.

Gazing up at the clear blue sky, not a single cloud obstructed the warm sunlight. The sun's rays caused beads of sweat to form on my forehead. With a furrowed brow and a closed mouth, I desperately longed for some respite. I wiped the perspiration off my face, ensuring it wouldn't sting my eyes.

After walking a bit further, my eyes widened in astonishment as they finally caught sight of something that piqued my interest. I discovered a river flowing ahead, where animals were quenching their thirst. Filled with excitement, I couldn't help but jump up and down a little.

At last, a place to rest! Here I come!

I hurriedly made my way towards the river and splashed water on my face, feeling an instant coolness wash over me. It was a sensation I had never experienced some time recently.

As I wiped the water from my eyes, I cautiously surveyed my surroundings, hoping that no wild beasts were approaching to harm or devour me. Fortunately, none were in sight thus far.

However, I didn't just wash my face; I also rinsed my hair and neck. Squeezing the water out of my hair, I used my ribbon to tie it back. I disregarded my damp shirt, as the relief of feeling the cool temperature was too overwhelming.

Suddenly, I heard footsteps behind me. I quickly turned around, but it was too late. A shadow loomed over me, and I gasped as someone grabbed hold of me…

Upon awakening from a deep slumber, I let out a groan and slowly opened my eyes. As my vision adjusted, I surveyed my surroundings and noticed only a few bags positioned near a bed. In front of the tent, a campfire emitted a warm glow, although the lantern inside the tent provided more illumination. The sounds of grasshopper crickets and owl hoots replaced the usual bird chirping, while the crisp air filled my nostrils. The wind brushed against the tent, causing it to sway slightly.

As the sky transformed into shades of orange, the stars and a crescent moon took the place of the sun. Despite recalling being kidnapped, I observed that there was no one in sight. I presumed that my captors had ventured into the forest to search for food. Although I entertained the idea of escaping before their return, I sat up straight and realized that my wrists were bound by a rope. "Huh?!" I shouted, raising my hands and finding the restrictions.

Aware that I needed to free myself from this room, I scanned the area with my eyes, desperately searching for a blade to sever the ropes. Time was of the essence, as I had no idea when the kidnappers would return to the campsite. After an exhaustive search, I finally spotted a knife resting atop one of the bags. A wicked smile crept across my face. Ha! What fools they are!

Carefully, I rose from the floor, ensuring that I maintained my balance. Despite my feet also being tied, I managed to leap forward and snatch the knife. With exactness, I cut the ropes gripping tight of my wrists without causing hurt to myself, permitting the pieces of rope to drop on the ground. Raising the knife, I held it close for self-defense purposes.

Approaching the doorway, I cautiously peered outside, glancing in both directions. To my relief, there was no one in sight, presenting an opportunity for escape. I swiftly left the campsite, determined to find a new hiding place and evade my kidnappers.

As I continued my journey through the forest, I remained vigilant for a suitable hiding spot. However, the persistent owl hoots and cricket chirps only added to my frustration. The moonlight illuminated my path as I pressed on, until the sound of approaching footsteps caught my attention. Startled, I spun around and gasped, my hand instinctively rising to cover my mouth.

"Ah, there you are!" A man clad in a worn tunic, perplexed with gaps, stood before me with outstretched arms, endeavoring to seize me. "So, you overseen to elude from the campsite, did you? Well, it seems I have caught you now," he chuckled menacingly.

Quickly assessing my surroundings, I scrambled for a plan. In a split-second decision, I scooped up dirt from the ground, clenching it tightly in my hand as the man's shadow loomed over me. Before he could make a move, I hurled the dirt into his face, eliciting a startled cry.

Stepping back, the man shielded his eyes, allowing me to dart away from him, my gaze darting back and forth. Despite my efforts, a suitable hiding place remained elusive, and the man's threatening shout only spurred me on.

My eyes widened in fear as I glanced back, noticing a dark figure in the distance closing in on me. With my heart pounding in my chest and sweat trickling down my face, I continued my frantic search for refuge.

The man's unexpected speed had me on edge, intensifying my fear. I realized that hiding was no longer an option; I needed to find something to impede his progress or at least momentarily incapacitate him. Desperation fueled my search for any object that could be of use. However, my efforts proved futile, heightening my sense of desperation and the urgency to find a means of escape.

In my frantic state, I accidentally tripped over a rock, causing me to fall to the ground in pain. A cry escaped my lips as I writhed in agony. As he approached, his shadow loomed over me, casting a sinister presence.

With a malicious grin, he taunted, "Ah, I've finally caught you."

My gaze shifted between the rock and the man, contemplating whether I should attempt to grab it. I hoped for any chance to seize it while he stood above me. Unfortunately, he swiftly swiped my hand away, causing me to scream in pain. Clutching my throbbing wrist, I closed my eyes tightly, attempting to alleviate the agony, taking deep breaths to steady myself.

I heard his footsteps drawing closer, accompanied by a cruel chuckle. "You're mine now, little girl," he declared with sadistic satisfaction.

Looking up at him, I saw his attempt to grab hold of me. I instinctively slid back, trembling with fear, while continuing to take deep breaths. It seemed that this could be the end for me, as far as I knew…