Eleanor Cromwell ran through the dark, dense forest, her breath ragged and senses sharp with pursuit. Blood flowed from the wound on her shoulder, a constant reminder of the danger lurking around every corner. Amidst the frozen undergrowth, she spotted a tall tree shrouded in dewy ice, its thick foliage providing a momentary refuge.

Pressing her back against the trunk of the ancient tree, her fingers trembling as she inspected the gunshot wound. With swift determination, she tore a piece of cloth from her gown and tightly wrapped the wound, staunching the flow of blood temporarily. Leaning against the tree, she sighed heavily, her mind filled with questions and uncertainty.

"What should I do now? Can I still save myself, or should I surrender? But to whom?" Eleanor's thoughts echoed in the silence of the forest, her heart burdened by the decisions that lay ahead.

Suddenly, the sound of footsteps pierced the silence, causing her to freeze. She covered her mouth with her hand, holding her breath. Then she slipped into the bushes nearby. The footsteps grew closer, the crunch of snow underfoot signaling the presence of several adult figures in palace guard uniforms.

"Where did that crazy fairy go?" one of them whispered.

"She shouldn't be far from here, she's wounded, so she shouldn't be able to get far," another replied.

The troop drew closer to Eleanor's hiding place. In her heart, she continued to pray not to be discovered. As their steps approached, Eleanor tried harder to hold her breath to avoid being heard. Suddenly, the soldiers were attacked by a group of individuals dressed in black.

"Where are you taking that crazy fairy?" one of them asked, his voice cutting through the darkness.

The royal soldiers responded confidently, "What do you mean? Isn't she one of yours? We should be asking you that!"

"Whether she's one of us or not, that's none of your concern. What's clear is that we're not bringing her with us right now. You'd better surrender Eleanor Cromwell soon! If not, don't expect to avoid a battle!" replied one of the men in black.

The two groups, both chasing Eleanor, clashed with each other. Seeing the opportunity, Eleanor felt a chance to run. Quickly, she attempted to flee from the scene. As she ran, thoughts of despair began to creep into her mind, each step filled with doubt and uncertainty.

"How long do I have to run? Will I survive this? And will he come to save me?"

"I told you not to trust him too much, why didn't you listen to me?"