The forest air turns cold the moment Zi Yu stops laughing.

You thought he'd be amused by your threat—like all the other criminals in stories. But the smirk slides off his face, replaced by something dark and hungry. Before you can blink, he's on you.

Your back hits the tree trunk with a thud, the satchel pressed between your chests. His hand wraps around your wrist, fingers digging into your skin until you wince. "Think you can blackmail me?" His voice is low, graveled—nothing like the soft tones villagers described. His other hand brushes your jaw, thumb dragging across your lower lip. "Cute."

You try to squirm, but he pins you harder, knee wedging between your legs. "Let go—"

"Or what?" He leans in, breath hot against your ear. "You'll scream? No one's coming for you, sweetheart. Not when I'm done with you." His eyes flick to the satchel, then back to your mouth. "Give me the crown," he growls, "and maybe I'll be gentle."

You tighten your grip on the satchel, and he laughs—a harsh, mocking sound. "Stubborn little thing," he mutters, free hand sliding down to your waist, pulling you closer. "Good. I like a challenge."