The Sister, the Brother, and the Monster

We all turned to where the arrow had punctured the stone, a price of seaweed tied to the end.

"Everyone, please," Mom said way too calmly. She was just attacked! She should be freaking out!

She untied the seaweed fluttering above her head. She cleared her throat and began to read: "You know who we are. We are low on supplies are are willing to trade food, weapons, and prisoners for your . . . "

"Mom?" Gwen asked. "What's wrong?"

She faltered, but tried to continue without choking on the words. "We are willing to trade supplies for your daughter, Princess Maya."

She continued to stare blankly at the seaweed note. She blinked. "My daughter's been kidnapped."