19
Jamie
“I want Jamie Flynn,” a guard says after stomping the butt of his spear firmly on the ground. “Flynn,” He repeats poking him in between the bars with the butt of his spear. “Come on, get up.”
“Who’s asking?” Jamie mumbles sleepily, rolling to his feet.
“The man in charge upstairs. Come on, get moving.”
“You can’t take him. I won’t let you,” Taytra says jumping to block her father’s path. “Wait, you? You’re Richard Henderson! Why are you with them? You are one of us!” she asks, recognition and betrayal flashing across her face.
“I used to be Richard. I have to become one of them. Every family had to give them someone as collateral. To keep the others safe and to stop rebellions,” he explains as he carefully examines the floor, all the soldier-like bravado was gone.
“Is that
