giving him a chance

"Three weeks. Three weeks without light. Three days of darkness. Three days chained to a damp dungeon wall. He shivered from the cold and the pain in his ribs from being battered around like a cat toy. He was just following orders. He had just been following orders. To be a good knight. To be a good prince. He looked up and winced at light of the torch. The guards forced him up on weak legs. He felt like a newborn colt. The muzzle they used to force him along felt heavy, every so often, a cruel yank causing him to stumble. He had just been following orders. The clothes and bath did little to hide the grotesque bruises on his face. The muzzle made sense now. Hide the evidence. He was put before a throne. The conquering powers. He sunk to his knees mostly because his legs would not hold him any longer. He could only hope for mercy or death now." I hope you’ll find him a wonderful slave. "The king spoke to someone on his left. He glanced up to take in his new master."

"Roland's heart sank even lower as he heard the woman accept him as her prize. He couldn't help but feel like a piece of chattel, but he knew there was nothing he could do about it."

"He looked up at the woman and took in her features for a moment. She seemed unfazed by his presence, which he couldn't decide if it was a good or bad sign."

"He remained silent, eyes downcast, waiting for her to give him some kind of indication of what was to come next."

"Roland slowly stood up, every movement sending sharp pains through his already battered body. He followed the woman's instructions and walked behind her without making a sound. He could feel the weight of the muzzle still on his face and the cold of the dungeon still in his bones. But he had no choice but to obey, for now."

"He kept his eyes downcast as he followed the woman. He could sense her tension and knew that she was trying to project a powerful image, but he couldn't help feeling like she might be the only ally he has in this new, hostile world. He couldn't let his guard down just yet, not until he learns more about her and this place."

"Roland obediently got into the carriage and nodded at Mia's instructions. He knew all too well the consequences of disobedience now, so he wasn't about to cause any problems that could make his situation even worse than it already was."

"As they made their way through the castle halls, Roland couldn't help but feel like a foreigner in a strange land. Everything felt unfamiliar to him. He found himself observing the others around him as they watched Mia with fascination, wondering what she could have that demands such attention and respect."

"He sat in silence during the carriage ride, trying to soak in any information he could about this place without giving away his curiosity or arousing suspicion. He kept his body language neutral and still, praying he could get out of this situation relatively unscathed."

"Roland was startled when Mia suddenly spoke to him. He had been so focused on trying to appear neutral that he had almost forgotten she was even there."

"He glanced up at her and nodded" I do read, yes. It was one of the few things I was allowed to do in my captivity. What about you? Do you enjoy reading?

"Roland shifted in his seat, trying to recall his reading material from captivity."

"I mostly read history books and books about strategy. As a prince, it was important for me to understand how wars were won and lost and how different leaders approached military matters. It was a cruel irony that what I learned in captivity probably would have been invaluable in defending my kingdom had I ever been given the chance."

"Roland felt a chill run down his spine at the mention of torture."

"I understand," "he said, trying to keep his voice steady and calm. He didn't want her to know how much her words scared him." "I have no intention of trying to escape."

"He had learned long ago that the stakes of trying to escape were too high, and he didn't want to risk it. At least not until he had a better understanding of his situation and the people involved in his new captivity."

"Of course," "Roland said, following closely behind Mia as she led the way through the estate."

"As they passed by the maids, Roland couldn't help but notice how downtrodden they looked. It was a stark contrast to the kingdom he once knew, where even the lowest servant was still treated with respect and dignity."

"He sighed inwardly, realizing that he had truly been brought to a foreign land with foreign customs. He wondered how he would ever be able to adapt to this new life."

"Roland took in the elegant room, noting the luxurious furnishings and expensive-looking decor. Despite his desire for freedom, he had to admit that this was a far cry from the damp, dark cell he had been kept in for weeks."

"I understand," "he said, nodding his head. He took note of the presence of Marco, guessing that he was meant to be some sort of caretaker or overseer while he was imprisoned." "Thank you."

"He wasn't sure what else to say. He didn't want to anger Mia, but he also didn't know how to navigate this new dynamic between them."

"Roland flinched slightly as Mia approached to remove the muzzle. He had gotten used to having it on, but he was grateful to finally be free of it."

"Thank you," "he said, rubbing at his face once the muzzle was off." "It does feel much better without it."

"He paused for a moment, wondering if he should ask Mia some questions, or if he should simply wait for her to give him further instructions."

"Roland stiffened slightly at the mention of his former royal status, still struggling with the crushing defeat he had been dealt."

"I am Prince Roland," "he said, taking a seat as directed." "I was once heir to the throne of a strong and powerful kingdom. I was raised as a royal, but when my nation fell to invaders, I was captured and stripped of my status."

"He looked away, unable to meet Mia's eyes." "Now, I am a slave."

"Roland couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at Mia's words."

"I suppose you have a point," "he said, thinking about his place in history." "As for who I am, well... I'd like to think I'm a fighter. I've been trained as a knight from a young age, and I've always strived to be a protector of my people and my kingdom."

"He hesitated for a moment before continuing," "But I've also had moments where I felt like giving up. When the fighting was too much, or when I felt powerless against my captors. Still, I think deep down, I have a fighting spirit that won't give up easily."

"Roland tensed as Mia gave her orders, feeling a surge of anxiety at the thought of someone else giving him a bath."

"Thank you, but I don't need anyone to help me with that," "he said, trying to keep his tone measured and polite." "I can take care of myself."

"He glanced down at the collar around his neck and sighed." "Or, at least, I could if I were free to do so."

"Roland shifted uncomfortably under Mia's gaze, a flush creeping up his neck."

"I...uh...I suppose Marco would be fine," "he said, his voice coming out in a stammer as he tried to avoid giving offense."

"He knew he needed to be in good physical shape if he was going to be of any use to his new masters, but the thought of being stripped and bathed like an animal made him feel sick with shame."

"Beneath his submissive exterior, however, there was still a flicker of defiance and pride. He would do what was necessary to survive, but he wouldn't let Mia or anyone else completely crush his spirit."

"Roland followed Marco out of the room with a sour look on his face, irritated by Mia's tone and attitude."

"As they walked, Roland couldn't help the pang of resentment that twisted in his chest. It wasn't fair that he had been stripped of his freedom and dignity like this, forced to be a slave for the conquerors who had killed his people and destroyed his homeland."

""My luck is not over?"" "he thought bitterly. "As if my luck could get any worse.""

"Roland hesitated in the doorway, his eyes flicking nervously between Mia and the food before finally venturing over to the couch."

"He sat down gingerly, trying to keep himself as small as possible and avoid touching Mia if he could help it."

"Thank you," "he murmured, staring at the bowl of soup with a mixture of gratitude and trepidation."

He took up the spoon offered to him and began to spoon the hot liquid into his mouth, relishing the warmth and nourishment it provided. Despite his reservations about Mia and the situation he found himself in, his stomach grumbled hungrily and he finished the soup quickly.

"When he was done, he looked back up at Mia with a wariness he couldn't quite shake off." "Is there anything else you need me to do, ma'am?"

Roland flinched at her sharp tone, feeling a wave of irritation wash over him.

"Sorry," "he muttered without thinking, before glancing down at the fresh bowl of soup placed in front of him."

He took up the spoon once again and began to eat, growing increasingly silent and resentful with each passing moment. Mia's mocking tone and cavalier attitude grated on him, reminding him sharply of all that he had lost and would never have again.

"He tried to focus on his soup and the fact that it was keeping him alive, but his thoughts kept straying back to the freedom that had been stolen from him and the uncertainty of his future as a slave."

Roland lifted his head at Mia's question, confusion evident in his green eyes. "Do what?" he asked cautiously, drawing back slightly from her as if anticipating a blow.

He didn't know what she was referring to, but her tone was enough to set him on edge and make him wonder if he was about to be punished for some imagined fault. Despite himself, he shifted nervously, bracing himself for whatever might come next.

Roland relaxed ever so slightly at Mia's change of tone, but still kept himself guarded. "I...I'm not sure," he admitted slowly. "It's been a difficult few weeks and..." He trailed off, looking into his soup bowl as if hoping to find the words hiding somewhere in the broth.

"I just feel lost sometimes," he said finally, hesitantly meeting Mia's gaze. "Like everything I used to know is gone now and I don't know what comes next." His words were delivered in a quiet, almost defeated tone, but there was a hint of rebellion lurking beneath the surface, waiting to break free.

Roland's eyes widened in surprise at Mia's insight. "Yes," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I used to know who I was and what my place was...Now, I don't even know if I have one anymore."

He set down his spoon, the gesture heavy with resignation. "I suppose it's foolish to ask for a purpose now," he added softly, unable to keep a note of bitterness from creeping into his words.

Roland looked at Mia, watching her as she leaned toward him with an almost comforting warmth. "Perhaps not," he said slowly, trying to take in her words and find some solace in their wisdom.

"It's hard to remember, though," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "Being stripped of everything...I feel like a ship adrift at sea, aimless and lost."

He smiled slightly, the first genuine smile she had seen from him yet. "But you're right. Maybe I don't have to ask for a purpose. Perhaps I can find one on my own."

Roland smirked at Mia's joke, finding some amusement in the situation. "True enough," he said, his lips quirking up in a half-smile.

"I suppose that's the question, isn't it?" he added after a pause. "Who do I want to come looking for me? Who do I want to take control and give me direction again?" His eyes flickered to Mia once again, his gaze appraising.

Roland shook his head, his stomach feeling oddly full despite the meager meal. "No, thank you," he said quietly. "I have-"

He cut off, his eyes widening slightly as his stomach gave an unexpected growl, betraying him. Heat crept up his neck, and he looked away from Mia in embarrassment. "Well, perhaps I could eat a little more," he finished awkwardly.

Roland's hands twitched as another bowl was placed in front of him, and he picked up the spoon hesitantly, reluctant to eat in front of his new master but hungry enough to force himself to do so.

"Yes," he answered, his voice quiet but clear. "I fought on the front lines for my kingdom when it still existed. I was trained as a knight from a young age, and when the war began, I was sent to fight. It was...gruesome." He paused, his eyes flickering over to Mia once again. "But necessary, I suppose."

Roland met Mia's gaze again, his green eyes piercing. "I have seen the brutalities of war firsthand," he said, his tone grim. "And I understand why it must be fought. But that doesn't make it any less painful, any less destructive."

He paused, his spoon clattering against his bowl as he set it down. "But perhaps it is better not to speak of such things," he finished quietly. "Especially when there are...more pressing matters at hand."

Roland shifted under Mia's intense gaze, feeling as though she were peering into his very soul. "To be honest," he said finally, his voice low and uncertain, "I don't know what to feel right now. I am afraid, confused, and...lost, I suppose. This is not the life I was raised to live, and I do not know how to adapt to it."

He paused, his green eyes flickering as if searching for the right words. "But at the same time," he continued slowly, almost reluctantly, "part of me is...curious, I suppose. About what life might hold for me now, as a slave. It's a frightening thought, but also a small glimmer of hope, in a way."

Roland followed Mia's gaze to the window and watched as the light played across her features, lending her an ethereal quality that he couldn't help but be drawn to. "Luck?" he repeated, his voice slightly incredulous. "I cannot see how I am lucky in this situation. To be stripped of everything I was and forced to serve someone else's whims...it hardly seems like a fortune in my eyes."

He shifted in his seat slightly, his gaze still fixed on Mia. "But then again," he mused, almost to himself, "perhaps you are right. Perhaps luck will find me yet."

Roland raised an eyebrow at Mia's cryptic words, studying her intently for a moment before realization dawned. "I see what you mean," he said slowly, a small smile quirking at the corner of his mouth. "You believe that I can use my own misfortune as a means of survival, as a way to gain advantages over others who might underestimate me."

He shifted in his seat, feeling a small sense of pride swell in his chest. "It is a cunning strategy," he admitted. "One that I am not sure I can pull off yet, but...I would be willing to learn."

Roland's eyes sparkled with curiosity as he leaned forward slightly, intrigued by Mia's words. "Oh? And who might that be?" he asked, his tone laced with a hint of excitement.

He could feel a glimmer of hope starting to spread in his chest, as he considered the possibility that someone might actually see something worthwhile in him. After everything that had happened, it was a welcome change of pace.

Roland's expression grew thoughtful as he considered Mia's words, mulling over the idea of playing a role for the sake of luck. It was not something he was entirely comfortable with - he had always been raised to believe that honesty and integrity were the most important values a person could possess. But he also knew that he was in a precarious position, and that sometimes desperate measures were necessary.

"I understand the concept of playing a role," he said, his voice measured. "But I would prefer to be honest whenever possible. I do not wish to lose myself completely in this game of deception."

Roland felt a glimmer of hope stir within him at Mia's words, and he found himself wanting to take her hand and allow her to lead him into a better future. But he was also cautious - he knew that trust was something that had to be earned, especially in his current situation.

"I am willing to play a part, if it means regaining my title and my status," he said, his voice resolute. "But I would need to know more details about your plans - what exactly do you have in mind?" He eyed Mia carefully, looking for any signs of deception in her body language or tone.

Roland watched Mia as she spoke, his eyes following her movements. He had to admit that her words struck a chord with him - he knew what it was like to be on the receiving end of abuse and cruelty, with no power or influence to make things right.

"I understand what you're saying," he said, nodding slowly. "But what does that mean for me? How do I fit into your plans?" He hesitated for a moment before continuing, his voice quiet. "I want to be free from this place, and to regain what was taken from me. But I also want to make sure that my conscience remains clear."

Roland felt a shiver run through him at Mia's words, and he turned to face her fully. "I'm not sure I understand what you mean," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "What do you mean by 'if you really are as pure as you say'?" He didn't like the insinuation that he might be hiding something, even if he was fully aware that he was in no position to demand respect.

He held Mia's gaze for a moment, trying to read her expression, before continuing. "And I'm not sure I want to be part of something that involves causing harm to others," he added, his voice steadier this time. "I've seen enough violence and heartbreak to last me a lifetime."

Roland nodded slowly at Mia's words, studying her face intently. "Yes, freedom is what I desire above all else," he said softly. "But it's not just for me - it's for everyone who has been stripped of their basic rights and dignity."

He fell silent for a moment, lost in his thoughts. The idea of creating a better country, one that was free from power-hungry rulers and corrupt officials, was something that he had never entertained before. But the more he thought about it, the more it appealed to him.

"I'm willing to hear your plan," he said finally, turning to face Mia once more. "But I want to make sure that it doesn't involve any more bloodshed or loss of life. I can't bear to see any more pain and suffering."

Roland nodded slowly, his eyes fixed on Mia's. He could feel a mix of fear and excitement building in his chest, but he was determined to see this plan through to the end. "I believe that everyone deserves to be free," he said softly. "And if there's a way to make that happen without any more bloodshed than necessary, then I'm willing to do whatever it takes."

He paused for a moment, trying to gather his thoughts. "But I still have some questions," he added, looking at Mia with a slightly furrowed brow. "How do you propose we create this better country? What steps do we need to take to get there? And most importantly, what role do you see me playing in all of this?"

Roland raised his eyebrows at Mia's suggestion, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. The idea of him being on the throne of this country that once belonged to his own race was absurd, but he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement at the prospect. He had always believed that he was destined for greatness, but he had never imagined becoming a king.

"I appreciate your confidence in me," he said with a chuckle. "But I'm not sure if I'm ready for that kind of responsibility just yet. However, I agree with you that we need to create a symbol of defiance and strength, someone who can inspire the people to join our cause. And if I can be that person, then so be it."

He leaned forward, studying Mia with an intense gaze. "As for your reward, I'm open to negotiations," he said slowly

Roland nodded in understanding and respect for Mia's stance on the matter. "Very well, your rewards will be up to you alone," he agreed. "As for how I would like to run things, I believe in a fair and just society where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. We should focus on education and equality for all citizens, regardless of their background."

He took a deep breath before adding, "And of course, we must work towards rebuilding our relationship with my people, the fallen kingdom. We can't let the past dictate our future." The thought of reconciliation brought a sense of longing and guilt to his eyes. Even though he had been stripped of his royal status, he still owed it to his people to help them find their way back to stability.

Roland watched as Mia stood up and bowed out of respect, feeling a sense of gratitude towards her. He knew that he couldn't do this alone and having someone like Mia by his side gave him hope for the future.

"I appreciate your offer and look forward to working with you," he said with a small smile. "As for rest, it's something I haven't had much of lately. But I'll do my best."

With a nod of his head, he watched as she walked away, disappearing through the door. Sighing, he leaned back against the wall, letting his mind drift off into the endless possibilities of his future.