Story Chapter 22: Arrival at Dungeon's

The carriage finally slowed to a stop. Haruka's heart sank as she heard the heavy wheels settle against the stone road. “We have arrived,” the knight said. Haruka swallowed nervously. “Already…?” The knight stepped down from the carriage and opened the door. “Come. Stand up.” Haruka remained seated for a moment, her restrained hands still held behind her back. “I-I can walk by myself…” “I did not say you could not. Now, please stand.” Haruka reluctantly rose. With her hands manacled behind her, she had to steady herself carefully as she moved toward the carriage entrance. “Slowly,” the knight instructed. “Watch your step.” “I know…” She descended the steps one at a time, her movements cautious and stiff. The blue athletic shorts and white-trimmed edges shifted slightly as she walked, while the front-tied white crop top remained fixed in place, leaving her unable to adjust it with her restrained hands. Haruka's cheeks warmed with embarrassment. “Everyone is going to see me like this…” The knight glanced toward her. “Keep your head up, Lady Haruka.” “Easy for you to say…” Once her feet touched the ground, the knight gestured toward the enormous stone building ahead. “Walk forward.” Haruka hesitated. The dungeon doors towered before her, reinforced with thick iron bands and guarded by several armored soldiers. “That's the dungeon…?” “Yes.” Haruka stared at the entrance. “I really am being taken inside…” The knight gave a quiet nod. “Come. We must proceed.” Haruka reluctantly took another step. Then another. Her footsteps echoed against the stone as she was escorted toward the massive doors. She stopped just a few paces away and stared upward. “…What happens to me now?” The knight said nothing. Haruka's expression tightened with fear as the enormous dungeon doors stood directly before her. And then— The chapter ends.