**Chapter 1: Trauma's Dark Shadow**

As I walked down the street, tears streaming down my face, I couldn't shake off the feeling of vulnerability that had been plaguing me since my argument with Hange, the Dragon Emperor and my boyfriend. My brain injury made me more sensitive, and I often acted like a child when I was overwhelmed. The pain in my head was still throbbing from the emotional turmoil I had experienced earlier. I had come to the city to clear my mind, but it seemed like my world was crumbling around me. The memories of our argument still lingered, making my heart ache with every step. I had always struggled with my emotions, and Hange's words had cut deep. I felt like I was walking on eggshells, trying to process everything that had happened. But as I turned the corner, a sense of unease settled in the pit of my stomach. I quickened my pace, but it was too late. A hand clamped over my mouth, and I was dragged into a dark alley. I struggled and kicked, but my attacker was too strong. I tried to scream, but my voice was muffled. The pain and fear overwhelmed me as he ripped my clothes off, and I was left defenseless. I cried and screamed, but my voice was hoarse from fear. The world around me became a blur as he continued to assault me. I was trapped in a nightmare, unable to wake up. My mind went blank, and I couldn't process anything. The only thing I could think of was Hange and how I wished he was there to protect me. Just as suddenly as it had begun, it was over. My attacker ran away, leaving me shattered and broken. I lay there, trembling, and crying uncontrollably. The pain was excruciating, and I couldn't move. The sound of sirens grew louder, and I saw police officers rushing towards me. One of them covered me with a blanket and gently asked if I was okay. I shook my head, unable to speak. They called for an ambulance, and I was rushed to the hospital. As I lay on the hospital bed, I saw Hange's face hovering above me, his eyes filled with tears and concern. He looked like he had aged years in a matter of seconds. I tried to speak, but my voice was barely a whisper. "H-Hange..." I stammered, my body shaking with fear. He held me close, his voice soothing as he apologized for not being there to protect me. I could see the pain in his eyes, the regret, and the sorrow. "I'm so sorry, my princess," he whispered, his voice cracking with emotion. "If we hadn't argued, this wouldn't have happened. I'm so sorry I wasn't there for you." I buried my face in his chest, and he held me tightly, trying to comfort me. The pain was still overwhelming, but with him by my side, I felt a sense of safety. I knew he would do everything to protect me. As I looked up at him, tears streaming down my face, I saw the anguish in his eyes. He was blaming himself for what had happened to me. I tried to speak, but the words got stuck in my throat. Hange's face contorted in pain as he held me. I knew he was hurting, seeing me like this. He stroked my hair, trying to calm me down, but I couldn't stop shaking. "My princess, I'm so sorry," he whispered, his voice cracking with emotion. "I'll do everything to make it right. You're safe now. I'll never let anyone hurt you again." I didn't know how to process my trauma, but with Hange by my side, I felt a sense of comfort. He was my safe haven, my rock. I knew I could rely on him to get through this. But as I lay there, I couldn't shake off the feeling of vulnerability. The pain was still there, and I knew it would take a long time to heal. I looked up at Hange, and he knew that I needed him to hold me, to keep me safe. As the tears continued to flow, I knew that this was just the beginning of a long and difficult journey. But with Hange by my side, I felt a glimmer of hope that I could overcome this trauma and heal.