Captive

Sometime around three years ago...

Something was wrong.  Dark had come, but Emmawynn and Bansil had not returned.  Leofnof, her father, and her two brothers saddled up horses, carefully lit lanterns and set out to look for her.  Thankfully it was spring and the weather was warm enough that she was not going to freeze, but everyone was concerned, it was not like Emmawynn to be so late.  By morning they knew she was not on their farm, and they rode to enlist the neighbors help in their search.

It took Dru around two hours to find the cave she'd been looking for. At least, that was her estimate.

Every tree seemed to hold a pair of eyes. Every wisp of wind seemed to hold harsh whispers. Her ears caught every rustle of a twig and she fought to keep down the panic that tried to rise whenever she was by herself like this.

The days were going by quickly, yet taking an eternity to pass. Daph had lost the ability to recall just how long she'd been a captive by now. She reckoned it was just as well, since remembering would likely only serve to depress her.

Another man, Streegan, if she recalled his name correctly, took a turn in watching her. Dru did not hate this one as much as those before him...but she still thought she may need to do away with him to keep Bree safe. It no longer mattered about her safety. If she died, then many others would be better for it, even. But if she lived, she could use herself to protect everyone. Put herself between them and danger.