NOT approved by the FDA

Cierzo's heart pounded in her chest as she raced through the winter forest, her breath coming in short, panicked bursts. The raven's harsh caw echoed in her ears, a chilling reminder of the power it wielded over her much like its masters. She had no choice but to obey. She dared not refuse. Refusal meant death, and her only purpose was to live.

As she approached the edge of the lake, she slowed, her legs trembling beneath her. The serene beauty of the island did nothing to calm her nerves. Instead, it only heightened her fear, the tranquil scene mocking the terror she felt inside.

The raven landed on a branch, its beady eyes watching her every move. She forced herself to keep going, her steps faltering as she saw the figure standing by the water’s edge. A brute, one she’d seen but had never had to endure like Cifarelli. The sight of him made her stomach churn with dread.

She stopped a few paces away, her eyes fixed firmly on the ground. “I-i am Cierzo, at your pleasure.” The blush fae whispered, her voice barely audible. That’s what her mother had taught her to say to her husband. The dainty woman dared not look up, knowing the consequences of showing even a hint of defiance.

Her eyes flicked nervously to the side, where she saw another girl — another Sidi, summoned here just like her. The girl looked just as frightened, and Cierzo’s heart ached in empathy. They were both at the mercy of this brute, both trapped in the same nightmare. She took a shaky breath, trying to steady herself. Her survival depended on her obedience, her subservience. She would do whatever it took to stay alive.
””