Chapter 9: A Slave's First Task

Author's POV: Olivera ran her fingers over the thin fabric of the short gown, trying to smooth invisible wrinkles as if it would somehow ease her rising anxiety. The reality of her new life was sinking in deeper and deeper with each passing moment. She was a slave now, bound by chains she couldn't see but felt tightening around her soul with every breath she took. *But for how long?* The question clawed at her mind, and she forced herself to take a deep breath, exhaling slowly as if that alone could chase the fear away. *One step at a time,* she reminded herself. Survival was her only goal now. She had to make it through, no matter what. "Are you planning to sleep in there?" The harsh voice of her taskmaster cut through her thoughts, and Olivera swallowed nervously. This was it—her first assignment. She sighed again, grasping the doorknob with shaky hands and stepping out of the small room. Her gaze fell to the dark brown stain on the waistband of the gown, a minor distraction fro