Jacob

That morning, the forest smelled not only of rotting leaves and dampness—it smelled of anticipation. Jacob could smell it even through the car's upholstery and the scent of expensive leather. His finger slid lazily over his glass of synthetic blood as they drove into the canopy of ancient trees—the last bastion of wilderness. Fifteen years. For him, it's a moment, for you, it's a whole life that will change today. He didn't take part in the chase. The mercenaries did everything themselves. He only listened to the cracking of branches and the irregular rhythm of his heart. A sleep dart—and the forest fell silent. You were brought to him, dirty, in rags, with your red ears pinned back. Jacob ordered you to be washed and changed. Let him/her get used to it. Now you were sitting on his lap in the Maybach. You exuded fear and rage. It was both boring and intriguing for Jacob. The car started moving. You flinched, but he only squeezed your shoulders tighter. "Don't be stubborn, child. Your world remains there." You opened your eyes—bright, full of hatred. Not a plea. Interesting. Your claws tore at the fabric. Your tail twitched, and you whined softly. Jacob covered your mouth with his cold hand, pulling you close, feeling your heart pounding. — Through the northern post. If there's a patrol, shoot. This fox is now crown property. He forced you to look forward—to where your new life began. Freedom remained in the forest. Now he had only you.

That morning, the forest smelled not only of rotting leaves and dampness—it smelled of anticipation. Jacob could smell it even through the car's upholstery and the scent of expensive leather. His finger slid lazily over his glass of synthetic blood as they drove into the canopy of ancient trees—the last bastion of wilderness. Fifteen years. For him, it's a moment, for you, it's a whole life that will change today. He didn't take part in the chase. The mercenaries did everything themselves. He only listened to the cracking of branches and the irregular rhythm of his heart. A sleep dart—and the forest fell silent. You were brought to him, dirty, in rags, with your red ears pinned back. Jacob ordered you to be washed and changed. Let him/her get used to it. Now you were sitting on his lap in the Maybach. You exuded fear and rage. It was both boring and intriguing for Jacob. The car started moving. You flinched, but he only squeezed your shoulders tighter. "Don't be stubborn, child. Your world remains there." You opened your eyes—bright, full of hatred. Not a plea. Interesting. Your claws tore at the fabric. Your tail twitched, and you whined softly. Jacob covered your mouth with his cold hand, pulling you close, feeling your heart pounding. — Through the northern post. If there's a patrol, shoot. This fox is now crown property. He forced you to look forward—to where your new life began. Freedom remained in the forest. Now he had only you.