Genesis : Knights of Salvation Series
Chapter 5: Morning Peace

Aspen

“I’m not sure about all this,” I confide to Clare, “I don’t think they trust us. I don’t think I blame them.”

“It’s all for the best,” Clare replied not looking up from her notes, “We just need to get to ground zero, we don’t need to make friends.”

A knock startles us both and our attention is on the door. Clare lifts her hand as to signal for me to stay where I am. Clare opens the wooden door. There stands Orion like a statue. He gives us both a once over. I try to look natural but trip on my own foot and grab the bed post for assistance. The room had two twin beds with old metal frames and a few wool blankets. On the side tables sit two candles that send shadows dancing through the room.

“Can we help you?” Clare asks. I wish she would try to be a little more welcoming. This whole thing is going to be a lot harder if everyone is giving the cold shoulder. Orion continues to stand in the doorway, Clare does not welcome him in. I feel the tension up my spine. The more time I spend around Orion the more I start to realize he does not seem too comfortable around people. This afternoon in the tavern must have been a show. He knew what he was doing and was playing the game, just like Clare. Knowing he was uncomfortable seems to make me like him a little more, at least I could relate.

I could tell Clare was losing her patients and cleared her throat a little to break the silence.

“Captain Enyo has asked you join us at dawn to go over the details of the mission,” Orion says a little too formally. He begins to turn away just after speaking.

“Does that mean, you’ve agreed to the mission?” I blurt out. I sit up a little straighter and try to avoid the glare Clare is giving me. I can’t seem to stop my hands from trembling. Orion stops, turns around, and looks me straight in my violet eyes. He begins to say something and then stops himself abruptly.

“An order is an order,” he states and then turns on his heels and walks away.

Clare rolls her eyes and shuts the door then she turns and give me a look. I avoid her eye contact.

“What part of ‘I do all the talking’ did you not understand?”

“Sorry,” I grin at her and I notice a little smirk in return. As we continue what we had been doing my mind wonders to my father and uncle. I never really had the best relationship with my father yet even now I can’t help but want to see his harsh set stone face.

“Clare, do you still have my Father’s letter?” I speak up as I glance over my shoulder to look at her. He peaks up from her black book and without a word pulls out an envelope stashed away in her book. I reach over and grab the letter from her as I sit almost stoically on the side of the bed. I slip open the envelope and pull out the white parchment paper tucked so easily into the envelope. My eyes set on the pristinely written lettering.

Dear Aspen,

My darling child, I write this knowing that when you open it you will be on your way to fulfill your duty as a child of our fine Twin Walls society. I hope that you feel the pride I feel knowing that you are on your way to make history by saving our people. I know you will not let me down and will strive for the greatness expected of you and of the Stone Family. I and by suit, your loving government will be thinking of you and waiting impatiently for your stupendous return.

Seriously, You dearest Father.

I fold the paper up and tuck it away into the envelope. I do not know what I was expecting from a letter by my father and yet I can feel the want for a loving word and kindness in a letter from him fall painfully away. My father was never much for a kind word or showing affection, but I guess I had thought on my way to a such a deadly place he would spare just one ‘I love you’. I look up and let out a deep breath I had been holding. Clare walks over and start to get ready for bed. She always wears such high-end clothes. She looked so out of place in this old room. I look at my clothes in contrast. I wore a long sleeve short and a tank top. I thought I was being smart to layer my clothes as the weather was still unpredictable this time of year, but I was cold in this large cement building. The only thing that would tie me to the government is my phoenix neckless. It was given to me on my sixteenth birthday. A symbol of rising from the ashes and becoming anew.

I pull off my military grade boots and place them under the bed, then pull my shirt over my head and unzip my pants and snuggle under the wool blankets trying to warm up. Clare just finishes laying the blankets out neatly on her bed.

“They don’t sound very happy about the mission,” I say staring at the cracking cement ceiling. Orion’s and the others begrudging faces playing back in my head as I try to ignore the letter from my father burning in the back of my mind.

“That doesn’t matter Aspen. They work for the military, they’ll do as their ordered,” She shrugs off my comment. Sometimes when I talk to Clare, I notice that she has very low regard for others. She gets so focused on a mission or her orders she forgets to think of others as people. Part of me is terrified that even if I feel like we could be sisters now, she will not think twice if ordered to kill me. That single thought broke my heart and I pushed it out of my head.

“If they don’t trust us, what will stop them from sacrificing us to the forsaken if they’re in a jam?”

“Nothing, that’s why I’m here. I am plan B, and C and even Z. I will not let anything happen to you. Those are my orders,” She says nonchalantly slipping into her blankets.

“And… what if they die in the process?” I mumble. Both of us lay silent for a moment.

“They signed up for this team knowing the risk. This is what they are trained for,” Clare says. I have a feeling she is trying to be reassuring but it falls flat. Clare may be cold, but all I can’t help but think I am going to be the reason this well-trained team dies.

“I don’t want anyone to die,” I say holding back tears. I feel silly crying in a military headquarters, but the guilt swallows me and suddenly I am second guessing if we should even go through with this at all. The room is silent once again. I wait for a response but when Clare simply blows out the candle, I assume the conversation is over. I lift my head and blow out my candle as well.

“I don’t want anyone to die either,” Clare says in the darkness, “but we don’t have a choice. This is our only chance. You know that if we don’t get what we need soon...” She pauses a moment, and in a softer voice then I have ever heard continues, “You’re dying Aspen, and if you die, we lose any chance of ever curing the virus. If a few must die for all our people to live…we must be willing to make that sacrifice.”

And with those last words hanging in the air, I turn over and go to sleep. A heavy feeling of guilt and duty hanging over my heart.

I watch as the men try to subdue the mutated man. It looks like a game of cat and mouse as they maneuver around trying to exterminate the threat. Suddenly, the forsaken locks eyes on me and runs to the house faster than I have ever seen a normal man run. It breaks through the glass immediately sending the room into a putrid smell. Shock and pain hit me as the forsaken body tackles me to the ground and I feel my head slap against the hard wood floor. It thrashes its head back and forth then lets out a blood curdling screech. Its pus-filled boils stain my clothes and I scream, twisting my body in an attempt to get away. The forsaken claws at me and I try to push him off my small 9-year-old body.

“Help!” I scream out desperately. I try to hold out pushing the forsaken away, but his body is heavy, and he is stronger than me. I look over to see men breaking through the door, but I can’t hold out any longer; my arms give out! The forsaken distorted teeth clasp down onto my right shoulder. I can barely let out a scream as his body is pushing on my chest. I gasp for air. The forsaken’ s teeth dig deeper as its tears at my flesh. Its long claws dig into my side’s slicing right through my skin. I beg for help as tears stream down my face. I fling my arms and kick my feet chaotically in an attempt to escape. I hear a loud bang in the distance as everything around me starts to spin, I begin to lose consciousness. I can feel the weight of the forsaken-on top of me. It is no longer digging into my skin but lays lifeless on my shredded body as my agonizing screams of pain rack out.

Is this what it feels like to die, I think to myself. I feel the weight being lifted off my chest as the forsaken is pushed to the side. I attempt to take a deep breath but can only manage a shallow breath as a stampede of what feels like horses stomping on my chest pushes to the front of my brain. Suddenly arms are lifting me, carrying me away out of the house as I struggle to breath. I every wave of pain leave me more tired as the weight grows too much to bare. I can’t keep my eyes open. I can feel the cool nights air prickling my skin as the waves of pain capsize over me sending me into a dark oblivion.

Next thing I know I am awakened by bright lights shining down on me. I look around and at first, I think I am in heaven. Everything is so bright and white. Is this death? Then I hear a humming sound and a large metal plate is being lowered from the ceiling. I stare at the shiny object in a daze but as it gets closer, I am quickly snapped into consciousness as large needles are sticking out on the metal plate in a circular pattern. I try to run but the realization that I am bound to a table. The needles begin to pierce down my skin all around my already mangled shoulder.

“Stop!” I scream, “NO please!”

“Just try to relax,” I hear a voice say from the ceiling.

“AHHHHHHH!” I verbally scream as I bolt upright in my twin bed. There are tears in my eyes and my body is dripping a cold sweat. My heart is pounding, as I try to catch my breath. I look around trying to settle myself, and my breathing as I look around the dark room. I feel tears stream down my face as the panic and relief flood over me.

“You’re okay Aspen, I think to myself, it was all a dream, and you are safe.” I mutter to myself quietly as I try to settle my heart.

I slip my legs out from under the itchy wool blankets. My legs instantly get goose bumps at the cold chill of the room. A shudder rolls over me slightly as my feet touch the cool cement floor. I quietly tiptoe over to the window and peer out. It is still dark out, but I can see the first glimpse of the sun peeping over the mountains. I stare out for a moment replaying yesterday’s events in my head. My heart is still beating at an uncomfortable rate. I focus on the stars. The brightest ones can still be seen even though dawn is steadily approaching. The peaceful quiet of night receding just as fast, making me long for the quiet dark of the night. I take in a deep breath, releasing it as my breath fogs over the window.

There is no way I will be able to go back to bed and I figure we will be meeting soon anyways. I walk back to the bed pull on my shirt and jeans then slip my feet into my boots. I hate cold morning’s but tonight felt almost welcoming. As I walk to the door, I pass a small mirror hanging on the wall next to the door. My hair is a bit disheveled and I comb my fingers through my hair. My olive skin makes my already unusual eyes stand out more. These are not my eyes. I take a minute to mourn my once milk brown eyes. I had taken them for granted. I wanted to have green or blue eyes. I wanted to have eyes that made the boys swoon. Now that I have these inhuman violet eyes all I could do was wish to be the same as everyone else. I push my hair to one side and lightly run my fingers over my collarbone. I adjust my shirt to hide the large scar on my shoulder.

Just another thing for the Sparrow team to be suspicious of, I think to myself.

I head to the door, quietly opening it and peak back to make sure Clare is still asleep. I duck out of the room and head down the large hall. Passing a couple doors quietly and wonder who is sleeping behind each one. I try my best to be quiet as I make my way down the stairs, with just the slight click of the heel on my boot echoing slightly. I quickly slip out the front door and down the steps. I tuck my hands into my pockets as I walk towards the tree line taking in the crisp morning air. I can feel my head start to clear instantly. The first rays of sunlight give me enough light that I can see my surroundings.

I replace myself wondering to an opening in the trees. A small, indented path curves deeper into the small patch of forest. I close my eyes taking in the fresh air, listening to the frittering of leaves in the wind. The brisk air seems to seep into every part of me. It seemed to welcome me. It makes me feel like I belong like I wasn’t quiet the outsider I felt every moment of everyday. I stand there for a few moments enjoying the peaceful sensation that fills my body. When I finally open my eyes, the sky is brighter, and the vibrant colors of dawn paint the sky.

I hesitate to go back inside. I don’t want all those eyes staring at me, watching me… judging me. Most of my life has been filled with eyes evaluating me. After I was bitten by the forsaken, I spent over two years being watched, analyze, and test. I was an experiment. For the first year I was not even allowed to go home. Then I was permitted but only with strict monitoring. After that I was more like a side show than anything else. Word spreads quickly when a child is attacked especially one of ranking and peculiar situation. I never understood why my Father acted as if they were embarrassed by me or maybe just disgusted. My whole life changed. If we can do this. If we can replace a cure and stop this horrible disease, then maybe I could get my family back. Maybe I will be loved instead of feared.

Clare’s words ring in my head from the night before, if a few must die for all our people to live…we must be willing to make that sacrifice. I have never asked anyone to sacrifice for me. I don’t want to risk anyone’s life.

I shake my head in hopes of clearing my thoughts once more. At first, I found peace outside in the morning air and now my thoughts are running wild without anything to distract them. I turn and head back to headquarters only now noticing the cold freeze of my arms.

As I grow closer to the building and the door, I notice someone standing in the doorway. Just as I reach the steps, I realize who it is. I look up to see Enyo leaning against the door frame with a steaming mug in his hand. His head tilts to the side and he squints as he looks me over. Self-consciously, I fiddle with my necklace, but my eyes are locked on him as I try my best to hold my ground.

“Now what are you doing out so early this morning?” He says then taking a sip casually.

“Is there something wrong with enjoying the fresh morning air?” I say with a smile. In hopes that we might be able to get along. “It is hard to replace a peaceful moment like that in the inner wall.”

“I didn’t pick you for someone who enjoyed the outside,” He responds not looking up from his mug.

“Why? Because I’m from the Inner Wall?” I genuinely ask, tilting my head.

“Most A-status woman would rather be inside sipping something expensive rather than outside with the dirt,” He shrugs dismissively.

At that moment I understood something very important. Enyo see’s Clare and me with disdain because of our class. It wasn’t my fault I was born in A-Status but then again from the outside, It must be frustrating to see how we live with surplus and luxury while right over the wall, the less fortunate must forge and fight to survive.

“What are you doing out here?” I ask trying to change the subject. I’m not stupid, and just by his posture alone I could tell he was from the Inner Wall. He may not have been A-status, few were, but by no means was he scrounging for scraps.

“Why would you say that?” He asks furrowing his eyebrows.

“Only someone from the inner wall would know something like that.” I state shocked by my own boldness. For a moment, I think I catch him off guard.

“A high status doesn’t justify letting others starve.” The truth of his statement hits me, and the sting of guilt fills my body. I can fill my checks turn red and look away.

“I guess we have more in common then you thought.” I murmur and walk up the stairs passed Enyo. I hesitate for a moment at the entrance and then turn back.

“Thank you… for agreeing to the mission.” For a single second I see a glimpse of surprise in his eyes. Then he returns to a passive expression in a way that one a Higher-Class citizen can.

“You surprise me.” He suddenly says and now I am the one taken by surprise.

“Why?” I blurt.

“Most people in A-Status wouldn’t think twice about sending my team to their death but you’re willing to come with us.”

I stare at him not sure how to respond. I wasn’t going to insult him by saying how sad it must be for him to think his team is disposable. In fact, most Inner Wall citizens appreciated their sacrifices even if they didn’t want to share dinner with them.

Finally, I simply respond, “We all have a cross to bear, regardless of status.”

Enyo’s expression changes and I am not sure what it means. He focuses on me intently as if reading me and I am instantly uncomfortable. I would rather he be totally indifferent to me that would make all this better in the end. I decide this conversation is over and walk into the building. I hear Enyo’s steps behind me. Apparently, Enyo and I are not the only ones up so early, as I see Orion sitting at the table eating a clumpy oatmeal for breakfast wordlessly.

“Good morning, Orion,” I say sitting down opposite him. My eyes fall to my fingers to avoid eye contact. That’s when I notice something peculiar on my wrist. I gently pull my sleeve back just enough to see it but not enough to arouse suspicion or unwanted eyes. The vein on my right wrist seems to protrude a few inches up my wrist and is unusually black. I run my fingers over it, and it doesn’t hurt at all.

I jump a little when the door just behind me swings open. I put my hands under the table and pull down my sleeve to hide the odd marking. I turn to see a tall man with a ragged beard come out of the kitchen. I didn’t recognize him from the group from the previous night. I assume the two bowls he has with him contain the same oatmeal concoction as Orion is now eating. He gets to the table and places the bowls down beside me. The man’s skin is dark like chocolate and I notice the sparrow insignia tattooed darkly on his forearm. He sits next to me and places one of the bowls of oatmeal in front of me.

“Hello, I’m Harrison Calvary,” He says with a crooked grin and reaches out a hand to shake mine. I pull my sleeve further down and reach out to shake his hand. I let go quickly hiding my wrist again to keep my sleeve from pulling up.

“Now, don’t go being shy. I made some morning oats to get our gears going for the day. Breakfast of champions!” He says loudly with a large smile on his face. His smile is infectious, and I can’t help but smile back. He is so warm and sweet. He doesn’t even stare at my eyes or seem to notice them, but I know he does. He couldn’t possibly be that oblivious. He slides the bowl a little closer towards me and places a spoon next to it. I give him a true smile.

“Thank you, Mr. Calvary,” I say earnestly.

“Oh, please,” He rolls his eyes, “you call me Harrison. Everyone else calls me Calvary but I like you! You got a good soul, I can tell. Unlike the rest of these heathens here!” He gestures to Orion and Enyo who are talking quietly across from us.

“Okay, thank you, Harrison,” I cannot stop the smile on my face. I take the spoon and shovel some oats into my mouth. Just as I swallow, I hear Clare’s distinct voice from the stairs making me choke as the food moves down my throut.

“Aspen, you should have waited for me in the room,” She chastises me. Honestly, I didn’t even think to wait for her. I was too busy trying to replace clarity this morning. I look up at her and watch her glide down the staircase. When she gets to the bottom of the stairs, she gives me a look that I knew meant that I was in trouble.

‘I wonder what it is like to be free,’ I think to myself.

“I apologize, Clare, I just woke up early and needed some fresh air,” I say politely in hopes that would be enough to satisfy my watchdog. I could feel three pairs of eyes watching us closely. Clare seems to notice too because she takes a deep breath and comes to sit next to me.

“Your forgiven, but you scare me when you do that, I am your handler after all,” She explains. Harrison breaks the tension by handing her a bowl of oats and introducing himself. I take another bite of my breakfast grateful that it tastes better than it looks.

“Harrison, This is amazing! You’re an outstanding cook,” I exclaim. His eyes light up with pride and pure joy at my sudden compliment.

“Well thank you! I put some great spices I found at the market into it for a bit of pizzazz!” He wiggles his fingers to emphasis the pizzazz, “I’m glad you like it!!”

I have never met a more genuine person in my life. Harrison radiates joy and makes me feel like I belong.

I finish eating my oats and my attention turns back to the strange new mark on my wrist. It isn’t getting any bigger and my hope is that the medication Clare carries for me will make it go away.

“Okay, lets finish up breakfast and get started on a game plan,” Enyo orders.