Chapter 3: The Journey
Ama was dragged aboard a slave ship, her wrists and ankles bound by heavy chains. She was thrown into a cramped, dimly lit hold with dozens of others.
The air was thick with the stench of vomit, sweat, and despair. Ama's stomach churned as the ship set sail, the waves crashing against the hull.
She huddled close to a young woman named Nala, who whispered stories of her own village and family. Ama found solace in Nala's words, clinging to the hope of one day returning home.
As the days passed, the conditions on the ship grew more brutal. The captors tossed down meager rations, often rotten or spoiled. Ama saw people succumb to illness, their bodies tossed overboard like trash.
One night, a fierce storm rocked the ship. Ama and Nala clung to each other, praying for the dawn. But as the winds howled, a loud crack split the air – the ship's mast had snapped.
Panic erupted as the crew scrambled to repair the damage. In the chaos, Ama saw a chance. She whispered to Nala, "We must escape!"
Nala's eyes widened, but she nodded. Together, they began to work on their chains, using a makeshift tool to pick at the locks.
As the storm raged on, Ama and Nala made their move. They slipped free from their chains and made a desperate dash for the deck.
But as they emerged into the night air, they were met with the captain's sword, glinting in the moonlight...