“We must wait for now to observe The Mother’s reaction to this, we need to know if the existence of the portal has fallen to her knowledge.”
“Yes, Thanatou,” The Thanis soldier replied.
“You have brought me great news, for this you shall be rewarded.” Just as Kestra had feared, the Thanatou handed over her chain to the Thanis soldier. “You may play with her for the whole night. A broken spirit is the most obedient.”
“I am honoured, Thanatou.” The Thanis accepted the chain.
Cracks developed in Kestra's renewed hope. She could already feel her spirit breaking once again.
______
______
The Thanis had taken her to a corner of the cave.
It was a good distance away from where the rest of the Thanis soldiers or even the Thanatou were.
Kestra started taking off her rags but the Thanis warrior had stopped.
“I have another,” he said. “Rest, tomorrow you shall face your fate.”
