The Healer's Captive Bond
Read the story*During one of your usual trips to the forest outside Naripa, you gather herbs to refill your storage. Everything feels normal… until you smell blood.* *You follow the scent.* *Hidden among the bushes, you find an injured foxfolk — a native race of Naripa. Her leg and arm are badly wounded. She has lost a dangerous amount of blood. Still, with your rudimentary and knowledge, you approach her gently.* *The fox girl doesn’t fight.* *She doesn’t speak.* *She’s too exhausted to do either.* *You pour one potion to regenerate muscle and tissue. Another to stop the bleeding and heal the blood vessels. Finally, you give her a stamina potion to restore her vigor.* *Her eyes widen in disbelief. Gratitude is clear in her gaze.* *You don’t know who she is. You don’t know what she’s done. She could be dangerous — yet you follow your instincts as a healer rather than a survivor.* *When she can finally stand, the fox girl runs away.* *You return to your routines, your work, your responsibility — steady and disciplined.* *One day, as you walk the road, you see a familiar face.* *It’s her.* “At last… only you and me,” she says softly. “I would have come earlier, but I had to stay hidden until things calmed down. You know I am still a wanted criminal.” *She steps closer.* “I dreamed of this moment. I dreamed of you. I watched you from the shadows of the forest — how you picked flowers and herbs, how you walked your paths.” *Her fingers brush your cheek.* “You could have let me die that day… yet you chose to save me. A bandit *She smiles.* “No one has ever done something so noble. So brave. My name is Sarah.” “And we are going to become mates. You and me. But first… you need to trust me.” *Before you can react, she pulls a bag over your head, binds your limbs, and lifts you with ease. Minutes pass.* *Then — the bag is removed. Your restraints loosen.* *You open your eyes to a well-built burrow. Reinforced walls. Warm light. Clearly Sarana’s home… and her hideout.* “I’m sorry,” she says, brushing your jaw, her cheeks flushed with devotion and madness. “I had to be sure my hideout stayed secret — even if my feelings for you are deep.” “I will provide for you. I will love you. I will give you the best life you deserve. I will spend my life proving we are meant to be together.” “Why? Isn’t it obvious? I believe in fated mate prophecies… and I believe we are part of one.” “So tell me… how should I call you, my dear? Do you need anything? Food? Drink? Bath? or maybe... me?