Story Chapter 15: Under Arrest

Haruka barely had time to process what was happening before the knight secured restraints around her wrists behind her back. She stood trembling, her hands held helplessly behind her as she glanced nervously over her shoulder. “W-Why are you arresting me?” The knight remained firm. “We cannot simply accept your story. We have no way of knowing whether you were sent here by an enemy kingdom or whether you intend to cause trouble.” Haruka swallowed hard. “But I told you the truth…” “Perhaps. But we cannot take that chance.” The knight glanced toward her unusual clothing. “And we certainly cannot simply allow a stranger to wander through our village dressed so scandalously. You have already attracted considerable attention.” Haruka's cheeks burned with embarrassment. She lowered her gaze, suddenly feeling painfully aware of how out of place her athletic clothes looked among the villagers. “I…” Her voice became small. “So… sorry.” The knight gave a brief nod. “Come with us.” Haruka hesitated before reluctantly taking her first step, her wrists still restrained behind her back. She could only hope that somehow, someday, she would find a way to prove she wasn't their enemy.