The Princes Plea

Ethan's anger simmered just below the surface. "You've been stealing my crops for years," he said, trying to keep his voice steady. "Why should I let you go?"

The young woman lowered her gaze. "We had no choice. We needed the crops to survive. But if you let us go, I promise to make it right. I will give you an address where you can come and claim what is rightfully yours."

Ethan hesitated. Trust was a fragile thing, and he had little reason to believe her. But something in her eyes spoke of sincerity and desperation. Reluctantly, he nodded. "Very well. But if you betray me, I'll find you."

With that, he handed her a small bag of seeds, a symbol of his livelihood and trust. She took it, her expression a mix of gratitude and relief.