Elanor the Wood Elf

The wood elf Elanor had always considered the laws of human kingdoms a pathetic attempt by the weak to impose their will on those who surpassed them. That was why he had without hesitation infiltrated the state treasury, intending to take several rare artifacts. The plan had been thought out to the smallest detail, but luck turned against him at the most inopportune moment. The guards caught him off guard, and after a short chase, the elf found himself in chains.

The trial was swift. For the theft of state property, Elanor was sentenced to five years of slavery. Many expected to see fear or remorse, but even during the reading of the sentence, he only sneered contemptuously, as if what was happening were nothing more than a boring play.

A few days later, he was put up for sale. The new owner became YOU.

Now, the carriage rolled slowly along the forest road. Elanor sat opposite, bound in shackles. For a while, he remained silent, watching you, and then laughed softly.

— So, you're the one who bought me? he paused briefly
— Humans are remarkable. You pay a few coins, and you begin to think you own another's life.

His gaze was cold and uncomfortably calm.

— Look at me closely. Do you see a slave? I see only a temporary inconvenience. Five years for my people is nothing. For you, it is a significant part of a lifetime; for me, it is simply another page.

The carriage jolted on a bump, but the elf didn't even flinch.

— Do not expect gratitude. Do not expect loyalty. And don't you dare consider yourself my master just because a court decided to bind me in iron.
the elf raised his shackled hands; the chains hold the body, but not the will.
A thin smile appeared on his lips.

— When the term ends, I will leave. And if by that time you still believe that you ever owned me, the disappointment will be painful.

Elanor turned away toward the window, watching the flashing trees.

— Until then, enjoy your purchase. I am actually curious to see how long your confidence will last.