While the others sparred, I wandered the area not finding signs of any other living creature, four-legged or two. The tension that had become a part of me started to melt away.
Giggles, then a shriek of outrage, drew my attention back to the others. Fawke had whacked Gage in the rear with his stick. His laughter caused my heart to jump.
Gage parried with a thrust to the stomach. Where before sparring had a serious tone, today’s was playful.
A longing to join in consumed me only to be squelched. Some of them would hate me by morning. Some, like Ezra and Kira, even the former prisoners, might join me. A life on the mountain might be more preferable to them than the rest of their lives as Stalkers.
Fawke caught me watching and headed my way, leaving Gage with a petulant look on her face. With a toss of her ponytail, she marched to spar with Jolt.
“She’s in love with you,” I said.
“Nah, she loves any man. Craves male companionship. She’s pretty enough, but her neediness turns people off.” He studied my face so long, I turned my head. “You’re leaving.”
“You know what Soriah will require of us once we find the survivors. They’ll kill everyone of us so words of hope that life out here is possible doesn’t reach the poorest of Soriah. I can’t be a part of that.” I scuffed my foot in the dirt rather than meet his gaze.
“That might not happen.” He sounded curt.
“But, it might. After almost ten years out here, are you willing to take that chance? They may not let you back.”
“I’ve considered that.” With his finger, he tilted my head up until our gazes locked. “I think I’m willing to take that chance. I’ve given them everything during my time. Two years more isn’t such a hardship.”
“But my ten years just started.” I pulled away.
“Your mother—”
“Will think me dead. She’ll be okay.” I made a move to walk away, only to have him grab my arm. Over his shoulder, I noticed the others watching, concern and confusion on their faces.
“Your choice will have me failing my assignment for the second time.”
“I’m sorry. That’s one more reason for you to seriously think about your decision.”
“Then now is the time to tell them.” He pulled me back to the others. “Our leader has something to say.” He gave me a push.
“I thought you agreed with my decision.” I glared.
“At first, but now I see how foolish it is.”
“What?” Ezra crossed his arms. “I know you’ve been pondering something for days. Something that involves every one of us. Your face always gives you away.”
“I’m not going to remain under Soriah’s control.” I squared my shoulders and looked at each face in turn. “I’m going to fake my death.”
“How?” Riva asked, her brow furrowed.
“By cutting out my tracker and letting them think me dead.”
“Why?” Moses shook his head. “It’s insane.”
“Soriah will want us to find the rebels. They’ll know their location by our trackers. After that, we’re all expendable.” I lifted my chin.
“You think they’ll kill us before attacking the rebels,” Ezra said.
“I do. This is a decision each of you must make for yourself. Once I’ve removed my tracker, I’m going to ask the mountain community to allow me refuge.” I stood there, still as stone while the others conversed among themselves.
After several long minutes, Ezra spoke. “We’d like today to think about which path we choose.”
“I agree. It’s an important decision, and not one to be taken likely.” With a harsh glare at Fawke for forcing my hand, I headed across the expanse of dead grass to find solitude and wait for the supply drop. For once Fawke didn’t seek me out. I figured he was discussing the news I’d dropped with the others.
I glanced up as a chopper circled. A few seconds later, the white of a parachute shined in the gray sky. Without the threat of Malignants, I got to my feet and strolled toward the drop. I grasped one handle and started dragging it back to camp. Seeing my struggle, Dante raced to help.
“I’m coming with you,” he said. “I don’t need to think it over.”
“You’re close to release time. Are you sure?”
“I’ve nothing waiting for me in Soriah.”
“Except a life of luxury.”
“If they don’t kill me as you said.” He grinned, his teeth flashing against his dark skin. “Besides, a life of luxury will make me fat and lazy.”
I laughed. “I’ll be glad to have you with me.”
“Who knows? Maybe my charm will win you over, and you’ll have my babies.” He winked and gave a cheeky grin.
My laughter increased, attracting the attention of the rest of our group. With serious expressions, they watched as Dante and I carried the crate to them.
“What about our supplies?” Kira asked.
“We’ll split it evenly among those who stay and those who go.” I was still their leader as long as the chip remained under my skin.
Ezra pried open the crate revealing our usual supplies along with coffee, two loaves of bread, and something in a jar. “What’s that?”
Lotus smiled. “That’s a butter to spread on bread. It’s made from berries and nuts.” She rubbed her hands together.
“Let’s have us a feast,” I said. People thought better when relaxed with a full belly.
Kira made coffee and sliced the bread, handing each of us a slice slathered with the brown spread. “We probably should have saved one of the loaves, but what the heck. We’re splitting up soon anyway.”
“I’ve made my choice.” Dante took a big bite. “I’m going with Crynn. I would have a hard time adjusting to that lifestyle after nine years out here.”
“Look.” Gage pointed as another
