The mother clutched her child tightly against her chest, her heart pounding like a drum. She stumbled forward at first, but then her steps grew steadier. Didn't that young lady say she had others with her? If that was true, then maybe—just maybe—there was hope.
She glanced back once. Adeline stood tall in front of the glowing wall, facing the masked men without a hint of fear. The sight made the mother's chest tighten. She'd seen what those men could do to the prisoners. No one had ever fought them head-on.
She gritted her teeth. I can't just escape… I have to find help.
Ignoring the pain she felt from the bruises covering her body, she ran. Each step sent a jolt of agony, but she didn't stop. Her child whimpered softly, clutching her torn clothes, and she whispered, "Hold on. Just a little more. We're going to find help."
