The Cunning Fish in the Forest

[Aranes, the third child of the Ludig family, is proposed to be betrothed to Saroban of the Reigro family.] A marriage arranged by the king's command. It was nothing more than a high wall, Taking away the things I loved, Trying to steal a handful of freedom. The boy outside the wall just laughed. The words I heard most from him would be, 'Don't do it.' "You're annoying." "Show some respect to me, Net. I'm your fiancé." The freedom I enjoy will eventually go to you, But my only love is dedicated to the sword. I wished for and imagined things not allowed for women. To break down the wall blocking me, And to see that smug face filled with embarrassment. But as I became a woman and...