Page 58 of Riftborne
“I do trust you, Fia. I don’t trustthem. Half of them would probably find enjoyment in your death! You know this.” Her voice cracked.
“Ma, I’m doing this. I just need you to accept it. I can take care of myself. Please try to understand. I can’t lose you.”
“I don’t know if I can do that, Fia. I can’t watch you walk off to your death willingly.” She sniffled, wiping her eyes with her sleeve, “You know better. You know what it would do to me if something happened to you.”
Words wouldn’t come, but tears settled in the corners of my eyes and threatened to overflow. This conversation was never going to change. I sighed and began stirring the cauldron again.
I felt Ma's eyes on me for a few more moments before she returned to her desk and slouched in her chair. It was silent again.
Perhaps this time, that was for the best.
CHAPTER 22
I tiltedmy head back as the sunlight bore down on me—intense and oppressive. I dared a peek towards the top of the Compound but had to look away before blinding myself.
It was hard to wrap my head around the thought that coming here would now be an almost daily occurrence. I spent such a long time avoiding this place. I was conflicted. Training with the General was one thing, committing myself as a recruit was something entirely different.
Pushing away the sinking feeling of uncertainty, I steadied my steps.
At least this time, I was able to somewhat blend in thanks to the uniform that had shown up at our apartment door last night.
The cotton shirt, trousers, and boots were similar to the ones Laryk wore to our training sessions, save for the badge with my name. General Ashford’s faction symbol was stamped across the back.
I briefly wondered if any Riftborne had seen these halls and if my badge would paint a target larger than the branding on my hand.
I waited in the small queue preparing myself for the reproachful look I was sure to receive from the entry guard. They were checking the identification of everyone who entered.
Here we go.
I shuffled towards the unnecessarily large man and quickly flashed my identification. A glint of curiosity flickered across his eyes as he inspected me. But it was gone just as quickly, replaced with a look of indifference. He straightened himself and gestured with his chin for me to move along.
A puff of relief escaped me.
That wasn’t so bad.
I took another step forward but hesitated before walking through the enormous iron gates. My lips twisted as I dared a peek behind me. I could still turn around.
But the thought didn’t linger for long. I didn’t allow it to. I pushed my feet against the pavement and forced myself forward, lowering my head and instinctively avoiding eye contact.
The vast circular space of the lobby felt cold despite the many moving bodies. A blur of steel, charcoal and grit twisted around me. The twang of metal filled the air, sending a chill across my skin.
Now where do I go?
I wracked my brain, trying to recall if the General mentioned where I would be expected in this monstrosity of a building. Of course, he hadn’t. He was probably in his office, riddled with amusement at the thought of me walking around aimlessly.
Nearing the mess hall, I looked up to see the medical insignia on a sign above. Below it was an arrow pointing left. Faction Immunity, I assumed. I noted the location in my mind. I would surely find myself there a few times before this was all over.
My eyes darted around the massive space for any markers that could point me in the right direction. A twinge of embarrassment washed over me, and I bit my lip, searching.
I saw a familiar frame in the distance.
Lieutenant Callum Mercer.
He was making his way past the lines of tables. People parted as he passed them, nodding in respect. He looked up, meeting my eyes and stopped, gesturing for me to join him.
It was odd seeing him in this environment after our first meeting. He stood with his back straight, shoulders squared. He seemed more stern and rigid today. I’d have to remember to stay formal, acknowledging his superior rank. As Laryk soeloquentlyreminded me yesterday.
I approached him sheepishly, lifting my hand in an awkward wave and stepping into his path.
