Page 177 of Visions & Shadows

Slowly, Pearl’s breathing returns to normal, and she keeps staring at the floor. Her voice is shaky when she asks, “Where am I? Who are you people?”

“I’m a doctor,” Lydia says. “I work with Doctors without Borders. Have you seen what’s happening around the world?”

Pearl nods, wrapping her arms around her middle.

“These people came to save us. The world is dying, and they’re taking us to a new one. I know it sounds crazy, but so far, they’ve protected us from the disasters and violence.”

“I’m a doctor, too,” Pearl whispers. “A pediatrician.”

“We have something in common,” Lydia murmurs, a smile tugging at her mouth. “It doesn’t look like you need stitches.”

Pearl nods before tentatively glancing at me. Her chin quivers then she asks, “You helped me?”

I nod. “With the help of Raighne and Ares.” I rub my hand over her back again. “We need to get out of here before everything goes to hell. Think you can handle that?”

She glances at the group then nods.

“Is this it?” Dylan asks. “Are we leaving for good?”

“Oh Jesus,” Sarah whispers. “I don’t know if I’m ready. What’s going to happen?”

A nervous energy fills the air, and it has me climbing to my feet.

“I’m not going to lie,” I say. “It’s going to be overwhelming at first. Just stick together.”

“What’s it like on Vaalbara?” Jason asks. “And are you sure my animals are there?”

“Yes, your animals are there,” Griffith answers. “There are no big cities, and we’re not as advanced as you are. Things are peaceful, and we help each other. All that matters is you’ll be safe to begin a new life.”

“Easier said than done,” Dylan mutters.

“We’ve kept you safe thus far. Trust us,” I say. “We onlyhave your best interests at heart.”

Dylan nods, and thankfully, it seems to set the others at ease.

“Everyone form a circle and hold hands,” Ares orders. “Just like before, don’t let go until we’re on Vaalbara.”

We all form a circle, and as Raighne comes to stand on my right, Ares takes the spot on my left.

I look down at his hand, and after the past couple of days, it doesn’t fill me with hate and revulsion as I place my palm in his. His fingers wrap tightly around mine.

“Thank you,” he whispers, and I only nod before glancing at the group to make sure everyone’s ready.

This is it.

“Wait,” I gasp as I turn my head and look out the living room’s window.

I might have only lived here for five years, but it’s the only home I’ve known. Realizing this is the last time I’ll be on Earth, my heart squeezes painfully in my chest.

I only get to take these ten people. The rest will all die.

I close my eyes, and I feel the millions of hearts beating and the living force of nature.

I wish I could save it all.

I’m overcome with intense grief, and as I struggle to hold back the tears, I whisper mentally to Ares,“Let’s go.”

The air shifts around us, and everything spins for a moment before a cool breeze trickles over my skin.

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