---
Tabitha's heartbeat pounded in her ears as she sprinted through the dense forest, her feet pounding against the damp earth. She darted between trees, her gaze flicking over her shoulder, ensuring she wasn't being followed.
Who were they? Why were they chasing her? The questions swirled in her mind like a maelstrom.
Suddenly, she veered sharply to the left, hoping to shake off her pursuers. A rusty carriage came into view, its wooden panels weathered to a warm brown. Without hesitation, Tabitha yanked open the trunk and slipped inside.
The darkness enveloped her like a shroud. She held her breath, listening as the men thundered past, their shouts and curses fading into the distance.
But then, footsteps echoed outside. A woman's voice, shrill and authoritative, pierced the air. "How dare you! Mark my words, Lady Margaret will hear of this!"
A deeper voice, gruff and aged, responded, "Sire, please—"
The trunk creaked shut, and Tabitha stiffened. She heard the lock click into place.
As the carriage lurched forward, Tabitha's thoughts careened wildly. Should she jump out? But what if they took her to those people? No, she'd wait until they arrived, then make her escape.
The ride seemed interminable. Tabitha closed her eyes, her exhaustion momentarily lulling her into a fitful sleep.
---
A warm glow seeped through Tabitha's eyelids, and she winced, shielding her face. As her vision adjusted, she found herself in an opulent room.
The bed frame glittered with gold accents, matching the ornate candle holders that cast a soft, golden light. A full-length mirror, its surface smooth as still water, reflected the room's grandeur.
Tabitha wandered, her footsteps quiet on the plush carpet. Her gaze landed on a rocking chair, its worn wooden slats a stark contrast to the room's finery. A vibrant green shawl, adorned with intricate golden embroidery, hung gracefully over the chair's back.
Intrigued, Tabitha lifted the shawl, tracing the delicate patterns with her fingertips. The craftsmanship was exquisite, a testament to the artisan's skill.
As she admired the shawl, a shiver ran down her spine. Where was she? And who did this room belong to?