The Final Showdown [1]

"What negotiation?" Drake asked with a confused look, his eyes darting nervously.

"You know," came the reply, dripping with a knowing tone, "even if you take Emmeline as a hostage, do you really think the duke will spare you? She was always going to be used as a political tool. In other words, he doesn't give a damn about his daughter."

"You mean we're trapped here?" Drake's voice wavered as he tried to comprehend the gravity of their situation.

"Exactly."

"So what? As long as this barrier exists, no one can interfere with us," Drake countered, desperation creeping into his voice.

"Hm? Are you sure about that? When I said I knew all about this attack, I meant it," came the calm, almost smug response from me.

"What does that even mean?" Drake demanded, frustration and fear mingling in his tone.