Prologue

Running fast through the dark forest, trees, and thorned bushes whizz past me, slashing at my skin and nightdress. The rain pelts down on my hot flushed skin and my feet tear over the rough, muddy earth.

My breathing is erratic, the cold air piercing my lungs. The sounds of gunshots and dogs barking in the distance get closer behind me. I run for my life, desperate to escape, because I know if I am captured, I won't make it out alive twice. This is my only hope for freedom.

When I don't hear her behind me, I stop abruptly, skidding along the mud. "Arabella?" I yell, getting to my feet, my eyes darting around frantically in the darkness.

"Just run, we need to split! It's the only way!" She shouts back, but I can't make out where her voice is coming from.

"No," I cry, squeezing my eyes shut, disorientated from lack of energy.

"Please!" She begs. "Just go and don't look back! I'll be right behind you, I promise!"

I whirl around, wanting to find her. "I can't leave you, Ara!" I sob.

"Yes, you can! Now go!"

I hear the men gaining on us and I run. As I look back over my shoulder, I see her shadowy figure drifting away in the distance, being swallowed by the darkness. A cry escapes me, but I continue to run as fast as I can, not stopping for a second. Hoping that somewhere, we will reunite once again.