Chapter 1

The day that Gena had dreaded for so many years was finally here. She looked into the distance and saw a large group of well-dressed men heading towards her on horseback. They were followed by a rowdy crowd, seemingly excited to see the drama that was about to unfold.

Gena was nervous. She wondered if it was not too late to run away somewhere they could not find her. She felt a pat on her shoulder. Her adoptive mother, Dora, stood by her side, trying to give comfort to her.

She knew there was no point running. She had been told many times by Dora and her late teacher that 'You cannot run away from your destiny; sooner or later it finds you!' So better to face it full on, she now tried to reason.

Dora tried to give her some reassurance. 'Be strong, child. All will work out well in the end.'

'You promise to come along with me? It will be good to have your company and guidance,' Gena said, now fully accepting her fate while holding back the tears from her eyes.

'Of course. You are my daughter. I will always be here for you.'

The two women embraced, drawing strength from each other, before turning to meet their visitors.