CHAPTER 123

Anna POV

I sat in the dark, cold cage, hanging onto my knees tightly, trying not to break down totally. The air smelled of mold and horror, and the only sound coming from outside the bars was the strange scuttling of mice. I found it hard to accept that this was indeed happening. I was celebrating my birthday with my family and friends just yesterday. Now, I was stuck here like an animal, seized by Scar and his thugs.

Scar's name filled me with terror. I knew him from the stories my parents told he was the cruelest opponent my family ever encountered. He was vicious and relished bringing misery.

And now, he had seized me and my brother, Hendrix, as hostages. We were only pawns in his game against our parents.

I fought to hold back tears. Crying wouldn't help. I had to be strong, like Mom and Dad. I had to wait till they arrived for us. "Stay strong, kiddo," Hendrix's voice sounded from the cell next to mine. "Mom and Dad will rescue us soon."

I wiped my tears and leaned towards him.