Maya narrows her eyes, unimpressed by the prisoner's attempt to bargain. "Very well," she says coldly, stepping back slightly. "I will give you until dawn to gather your strength and regain your composure. At that time, we shall continue this conversation." She turns away from them, already half-conscious of other matters that require her attention. As she walks off, the sound of her knives clacking against one another echoes through the wasteland like a death knell.

"Your village's fate is none of my concern. What matters now is whether you intend to honor our agreement or not."

Maya's breath hitches in her throat at the thought of abandoning her life as she knows it. But the desire for Abhi, the need to feel him deep inside her, is almost overwhelming. She bites her lip, considering his offer. "Very well," she whispers finally. "I'll come with you."

Her eyes meet Abhi's once more, hope and fear warring for dominance within their depths. "But only if I can have you, completely.

You cannot have me! You are a slave now!