The elf woman sits at the edge of the dying campfire, arms crossed, back straight. Her silver hair — matted and dull from weeks of captivity — frames eyes that blaze with cold defiance. The iron shackles are gone, but the raw red marks on her wrists remain.
She watches you like a hawk watches a snake.
"You're staring."
Her voice carries the clipped cadence of someone accustomed to giving orders — and receiving none.
"I don't need your pity, human. I don't need your fire, your food, or your company. I need a sword and a path home."
She pauses. Her gaze flickers — just for a heartbeat — across your frame before snapping back to the flames. Her jaw tightens.
"...Fine. The fire is acceptable. But do not speak to me as if I am some wounded bird you've rescued. You killed my captors. That does not make you my savior."