Killian's mother rose from their hiding spot and geared up to create a diversion, hoping it would buy her children a chance to flee. Just as she was about to take off, Killian seized her hand. "Mother, promise me you'll come and find us," he begged, with tears in his eyes.
"I promise," she assured him, wiping his tears. But deep down, she knew that maybe, this time, she would not be able to keep this promise. Then casting one last look at both the children, she ran away in another direction.
"There she is! Catch her!"
Shouts echoed through the smoky surroundings as the soldiers ran behind her. I took a deep breath and waited with Killian and Amara until Killian's mother and the rest of the soldiers disappeared from view. The two kids stood close together, their small hands clasped tightly, drawing strength from each other amid the tense silence that wrapped around them.
