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“But why me?”

“You’re a scientist, are you not?” The Chief inclined her head. “We have more use for someone like you in our ranks.”

“But I never told you I was a…” Derek paused, his muscles tensing. “You were listening to our conversations in the house.”

“Did you really think we wouldn’t take extra measures to protect our people, Under-Dweller?” one of the men beside the Chief laughed. “We have ears everywhere.”

Khalani’s hands trembled, her resolve threatening to shatter.

“No,” she stated emphatically. “You’re not keeping Derek, oranyone else. If anyone’s staying, it’ll be me.”

“Absolutely not,” Serene shot back. “No one is being left behind.”

“Then none of you are leaving. We’re only taking him. Those are our terms.” The Chief’s tone left no room for argument as she straightened.

Khalani shook her head, feeling the wooden walls of the cabin compress, suffocating her.

Derek was the closest thing she had to a brother.

He was the first person who had trulyseenher in prison, the one she could always count on. Without Derek, she might never have escaped captivity.

Leaving him behind was unthinkable.

“I accept the terms,” Derek stated.

Khalani jerked her gaze to him. “What are you talking about? We’re not leaving you.”

“Yes, you are.” He swallowed tightly. “They won’t let us go otherwise. If this is what I must do to help you reach Hermes, then I’ll gladly do that. For you all, I’d do anything.”

She shook her head numbly as the weight of their collective bond shone in his eyes.

“Derek.” Winnie’s chin trembled. “You don’t have to do this. Winnie can stay with you.”

More arguments ensued, but Brock and Takeshi remained silent, their expressions hard, as if the harsh realities of their lives had taught them the necessity of sacrifice. But she didn’t miss their clenched fists and glares directed at the Chief.

“No. You all need to keep going. I’ll be fine.” Derek smiled, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I don’t mind the bed and showers,” he joked, trying to ease their grief.

“But what about the crops? We need your help in Hermes, too,” Khalani insisted, still in denial that this was their only option.

“I know,” Derek conceded. “Just come back fast for me.”

His bottom lip barely quivered, and Khalani cried out, throwing her arms around him. Winnie, Serene, and Adan quickly joined in, all five of them dissolving into tears.

Even though Khalani knew it was only temporary, she felt like her chest was splintering apart.

The Chief cleared her throat after a few minutes. “Time is of the essence, I’m afraid. If the terms are accepted, the rest of you must leave the Desert Spring immediately. Patreus, ensure they get their packs back.”

Khalani wiped her ever-flowing tears as they reluctantly pulled apart. Patreus nodded grimly, his expression odd as he swiftly exited the cabin.

“Go.” The Chief gestured toward the door. “The sooner you get to Hermes and return, the quicker we’ll all get out of this alive.”

14

There is never a right time.

There is only now.

If you are to step, make it deliberate