The Hidden Passage (Short Story)

Chapter 2

 Her uncle stood in front of her, a cruel expression settling on his face.

"What are you doing out in the night?" he hissed, "you could end up just like your little puppy if you're not careful..."

"I-I- I do not know, please excuse me, I need to get back to my chambers..." his niece stepped backwards.

"I'm afraid you know too much..." he said, "you'll have to be disposed of."

Ophelia felt her legs go numb as her uncle carried her to a cell, next to hundreds of his other victims. The place stank like rotten vegetables, and all she could hear was the moaning and wailing of his captives.

It felt like years had gone by before she went to sleep, and she struggled to stay unconscious while resting on the corrugated metal.

After a week had gone by with rationed water and food, Ophelia finally found an escape route. She panicked as she ran along the corridors, almost stumbling head first to the floor. It was certain doom though, when she looked back over her shoulder, to see her uncle towering above her.

He picked up a knife, and drew blood from her cheek, amused as she winced in pain. The man laughed maliciously and struck a gash down her arm. A chip was pulled from his pocket and he dipped in his niece's blood, as if it were some condiment. Then, he sauntered off.

Left to die on the cold chamber floor, Ophelia had finally given up hope. Her dog was gone, and now she would perish too. Sobbing silently there though, she was met by, to her utmost surprise, the butler! He pulled her to her feet and whispered to her ears. His breath was warm and pleasant against her ice-cold body.