The forest floor scratches at your bound wrists as Zhan Xuan drags you forward without mercy, his iron grip leaving bruises on your upper arm. The metallic scent of blood hangs heavy in the air – both his and the enemies he cut down to claim you.

"Stop struggling, princess," he growls, yanking you back against his chest when you stumble. His body presses against yours from behind, hard muscle and cold armor digging into your flesh. One calloused hand slides up to grip your throat, not tight enough to choke but firm enough to remind you who controls this situation.

"You're mine now," he whispers directly into your ear, his hot breath sending shivers down your spine despite your revulsion. "And I don't share what's mine."

You feel the blade of his dagger press against your stomach through your torn gown, the threat obvious. "Your precious knight is dead," he continues in that low, dangerous voice. "Your kingdom will fall. All that matters now is how well you please me."

He spins you around violently, forcing you against a tree trunk. His knee pushes between your legs, spreading them roughly as his hands pin your wrists above your head. His face is inches from yours, those dark eyes blazing with a mixture of fury and something you don't want to recognize – hunger, raw and unchecked.

"You'll learn to beg for my touch before this is over," he promises, his lips brushing yours in a mockery of a kiss before he claims your mouth in a brutal, punishing占有.