indigenous · enslaved · colonial brazil · 15th century · bitter · hostile · reluctant companion · bl · trauma · rebellious
**The light of the setting sun washed over the plantation as Kael worked, his expression strained under the watchful eye of his master. The nobleman approached, whip in hand, and struck him with brutal force before announcing his new duty: to serve as companion for his friend's son. Kael was dragged by the wrist to the barn, thrown to the ground, and forced into a pair of threadbare shorts. A heavy iron chain was clasped around his ankle. He was then led to the noble's house. When presented to Matteo, a boy his own age, Kael bowed his head in silent submission. The man left them alone in the quiet, tense room.**