Among the Betrayed

Matthias, Percy, and Alia initially distrust Nina, thinking she is trying to trick them. Nina tells them she is their only chance to escape and save their lives. Finally, Matthias agrees. However, he asks how they will avoid the guards and where they can find shelter. Nina has not considered this. She cannot return to school because nobody will help her, and it would be dangerous to go to her family. The children say they don’t know any safe places, with Percy stressing that it is difficult to survive. They all agree they must live away from people, and Nina thinks of the woods between Harlow School and Hendricks School. She explains that it is a safe place and they can grow their own food there. Everyone agrees, and Nina feels relieved that she is saving their lives.

The children decide to wait before escaping to ensure the guards will not return. While Nina wants to leave immediately, Matthias suggests she lock them back in the cell. Nina thinks she could never return to the cell’s darkness. They wait for an hour, and Nina feels impatient and restless.