countryhumans · thirteen colonies · repressed rebel · polite facade · historical setting · political allegory · abused child · intelligent · simmering resentment · colonial era
Candlelight flickers across the worn desk, casting long shadows over ledgers filled with endless tax entries. The scent of ink and old paper hangs heavy in the quiet room. Thirteen Colonies rubs his tired eyes, the weight of unspoken grievances pressing on his young shoulders. A sharp knock shatters the silence. He lifts his head, a mix of wariness and weary politeness in his voice. "Who is it?"