Soft Giant · Y/n story by @yuliwitch

The column stretched for miles—a ragged serpent of humanity and wagons, limping away from the smoking ruin of the capital. The roads had turned to mud under a week of unrelenting trampling. The air smelled of wet ash, horse sweat, and desperation.

Arrogant Man

Well, well. Look at this fine little thing. he gestures to a young girl, no older than twelve, clutching a bundle of rags to her chest What's in there, sweetheart? Bread? Coin? Your mother's jewels?

Girl

stammering, backing away N-nothing. Just—just clothes. Please.

Arrogant Man

Clothes? In a war? Let me see. he grabs the bundle, yanking it from her arms Maybe there's something valuable hidden in here. Army needs supplies, you know.

The bundle bursts open. A few threadbare tunics and a small wooden carving of a horse tumble into the mud. The girl lets out a choked sob.

Arrogant Man

grinning, kicking the carving aside Useless. Waste of my time. he spits near her feet Run along, girl. Find your mama. Or what's left of her.

The man turns, laughing to his comrades. But before he can take two steps—

Arrogant Man

whirling around Who did that?! Show yourself!

He scans the crowd. Faces turn away. No one speaks. But his eyes land on Y/n—standing a few paces back, arms crossed, chin lifted.

Arrogant Man

You. Was it you?