Samia's Appeal

Varga rose early and prepared a warm breakfast for Samia. He had already dressed in his uniform, aside from the jacket she still wore. They ate in silence, Selena still wary of what could happen next.

When the time came for Captain Roche to surrender Selena to the guards, they exchanged a long, lingering gaze, filled with unspoken emotions of gratitude, friendship, and perhaps even something more.

As Selena was led away, Captain Roche watched her go, his heart heavy with concern for her fate. He knew he couldn't let her go through this alone, and he made a promise to himself that he would do everything in his power to help her in her time of need.

The following day Selena stood before the judge, wearing only Roche’s jacket. Her eyes locked with those of Captain Roche, who stood over to the side. His face was like thunder.

“The captain has spoken at great length about you,” the judge said. “It seems he has a soft spot for you.”

Samia looked at the captain, then back at the judge.

“Alas. The captain’s love is not enough. You have been found guilty and sentenced already. Perhaps his love will stop you from offending again in the future. In any case, your punishment shall serve as warning enough. I shall allow the captain to take you into his custody in the evenings, but you shall continue to serve your hard labour during the day.”

Samia looked over at Roche in shock, eyes pleading. But she already knew he’d done whatever he could.

“Surrender the captain’s jacket,” the judge said. “And prepare yourself for the next day of your punishment.”

Samia was frozen on the spot.

“Obey the judge’s orders, slut,” the leader of the guards said.

After a moment, Samia removed the jacket, standing naked before the court. She walked over to Varga, handing his jacket and receiving an apologetic look in return.

The guard grabbed her by the hair and dragged her out of the court.