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You hide from devils in your sleep. I smile at them in greeting.

Khalani closed her eyes, the barest hint of a smile etching across her face as cool air brushed her skin like a feather. Strands of loose hair whipped around her cheeks in a show of freedom.

If she squeezed her eyes hard enough, she could imagine the wind blowing her away from Braderhelm forever. Destination unknown. She just wanted to find a place where living didn’t have to be so hard.

Did that exist before the Great Collapse?

The transport whizzed through the dark tunnels of Apollo. The only light emitted from magnetic lines the vehicles sailed over, the soft, green glow a welcome sight. Khalani, Serene, and several prisoners, including Dana, filled three transports as they made their way to the Apollo City Center.

A rush of energy pulsated through her as the tunnel opened, revealing the city of Apollo.

It must have taken years of construction to carve out the massive cavern. The stone ceiling was over 100 feet tall, anchored by twenty massive pillars. Electric grids wrapped around the pillars, lighting the whole city.

Homes and businesses were built into the stone walls surrounding the cavern, reaching all the way to the ceiling, with magnetic elevators providing access. The nicer homes were built on levels twenty-five and above. Khalani lived on level two.

Used to live , she corrected herself.

Only one elevator led to Genesis, heavily protected and under constant surveillance. Anyone who ventured near the Genesis elevator without approval was shot.

The transports slowed as they made their way to the City Center. Apollo citizens milled about in long dusty robes, heading to work or trading goods. They passed the Food Distribution Center, Khalani’s old workplace.

The building was diminutive, box-like with sharp, grey edges, and looked more akin to a morgue. A line of people waited outside in ragged clothes.

No one conversed. No one smiled. Not dissimilar from the prisoners in Braderhelm.

They rolled to a stop in front of the Council Chambers—the seat of the Governor and the Apollo Council. It was by far the most beautiful building in Apollo. Hundreds of white steps led up to the entrance. The towering structure radiated wealth, with pointy spires reaching toward the cavernous ceiling.

The building was made of pure marble and decorated with stained-glass windows—a shining beacon of hope for the city. It was on those marble steps where her parents and so many others lost their lives.

“Get moving!” a guard yelled, waiting for her to exit the transport.

She tore her eyes away from the steps and jumped onto the cobblestone road. One of the guards thrust a broom into her chest. As she stumbled back, a hand pressed firmly on her shoulder to steady her. She looked to her left and Serene nodded, a reminder that she wasn’t alone .

Khalani let out a deep breath, attempting to calm herself as tension speared through her nerves. She wasn’t sure how Charles, Winnie’s friend, would be able to communicate with her with six guards around and in front of the Council Chambers, no less.

Was the mission dead on arrival?

“You will be divided into two groups. The first group will clean the first street level in the Work Quarters, and the other group will clean the Trading District until we complete the full circle. I better not see a speck of dirt on the roads, or you’ll be beaten in the streets. Get to it,” the lead guard ordered, smacking the baton to emphasize the threat.

Three guards stayed with their group, casually holding guns strapped to their bodies as they walked along the street. The buildings in the Work Quarters were drab, rusted, and dirty, a complete 180 from the Council Chambers. People walked to their respective jobs, giving them a wide berth and wary glances.

A couple of hours passed. She continued to cast subtle glances around while sweeping dirt from the cobblestones into the raggedy bin. Charles had yet to approach her, and they were losing time.

“Attention!” a guard yelled.

Khalani froze, but the guards weren’t looking at her. They were staring at a man she’d never met in real life. He’d only resided in her dreams when she imagined thrusting a knife through his sternum.

The Governor of Apollo.

Alexander Huxley was an imposing man in his late 50s, with short, ash-colored hair speckled with gray. What was striking about him was his unnaturally flawless appearance. His face was impeccably symmetrical, chiseled to perfection, and had a captivating glow that made it difficult to look away.

He had a strong jawline, the clearest skin, and a row of straight, white teeth. The Governor wore a pristine white robe with the symbol of Apollo—a bright sun—stitched in gold on the front. The robe, combined with his incredible features, gave him the appearance of an avenging angel, there to save his constituents.

Khalani viewed him as an angel of death .

Alexander Huxley ruled with an iron fist and was the highest-ranking leader in Apollo. Unlike the Master Judge, the Governor of Apollo would hold his position until death. He was the one who ordered the creation of Genesis, further increasing the divide between the wealthy and common people of Apollo, and sentenced the Braderhelm prisoners to their deaths.

More importantly, Governor Huxley was the man who ordered the guards to shoot the protesters of Genesis, murdering her parents.

Six councilmen flanked the Governor on either side, wearing robes the color of blood.

Fitting.

The Apollo Councilmen were the shields, and the Governor was the hand that shoved the dagger in your back.

“Governor Huxley!” the lead guard stammered and bowed deeply. “To what do we owe this incredible honor?”

Alexander extended his hands as if preparing to deliver a sermon. “Good evening, gentleman. I was just lecturing my councilmen while we strolled through the unbelievable city of Apollo. Life aboveground in Genesis can get quite boring, wouldn’t you say?” His voice was inky smooth.

“Yes, of course, sir.” The guards nodded emphatically. “Very boring.”

Governor Huxley chuckled and tilted his head to the side. “How would you know if you’ve never been to Genesis?”

The lead guard blanched. “N-no, sir. So sorry, sir. I would never disagree with your opinion, sir. You have impeccable taste and are assuredly correct in all your assessments.”

The guard gulped, his Adam’s apple bobbing up and down, as the ensuing silence seemed to last a lifetime. Alexander Huxley finally broke into uproarious laughter. The three guards and councilmen joined him.

The disturbing interaction was like watching a real-life puppet play unfold, and the Governor held all the strings .

“We are lucky to have you, son.” Governor Huxley clapped the terrified guard on the shoulder. “I’m sure you would happily be at the front line in the event of any insurgence, ready to purge Apollo of all who would see her destroyed.”

The guard straightened in relief and puffed out his chest. “Absolutely, sir, you can count on me.”

“Good, good.” The Governor took a couple steps forward, casually dismissing the guard. “I presume these are Braderhelm prisoners, participating in city cleanup, yes?”

Khalani kept her eyes down on the broom, vigorously sweeping, but all her focus and attention was on the Governor. The guard’s voice echoed in her ear, “Absolutely, sir. We are keeping a close eye on them.”

Governor Huxley slowly approached the prisoners several feet to the left of Khalani. “Participating in city cleanups is a fantastic way to oversee rehabilitation efforts. Keeps them in line. You see, councilmen, not all Braderhelm prisoners are completely lost to society.” His silky voice made her shiver.

He loomed closer to Khalani, who clutched her broom like a lifeline and kept her eyes glued to the ground.

“For some, rehabilitation is impossible, Governor Huxley,” one councilman bravely said.

“Like the Death-Zoner.”

A few councilmen muttered among themselves as tension filled the air.

Khalani frowned, ears perking up at the whispered words. Death-Zoners were celebrities. They had the most critical job in Apollo, traveling on foot to the closest underground trade city, Hermes.

Only a chosen few were selected, the strongest mentally and physically. They traded Apollo’s crops for medicine and other invaluable resources. The journey took weeks to reach Hermes on foot, not to mention being weighed down with the heavy radiation suits and packs to hold supplies .

The position held the greatest need but was also the most dangerous. Apollo had the material to build only a few suits that could withstand the high radiation levels.

Many Death-Zoners perished on the treacherous road, walking the earth’s surface. And they lived like kings in Genesis after they returned from Hermes every six months.

She heard stories of Hermes from a Death-Zoner invited to her school graduation as a special guest.

“Hermes has it all. They have shops and bars. Even a casino!” he said after one too many drinks at the reception.

She had no idea what a ‘casino’ was.

“They got it right over there, I’m telling you. Keep their people happy and content while they rot underground. Slow boil.” The Death-Zoner laughed and took a big swig from his drink.

Her eyes didn’t stray from the broom, but the underlying threat in Alexander Huxley’s voice was evident. “I could have you join the prisoners, Wyatt, and then you can tell me if rehabilitation works.”

No other word came out of the councilman’s mouth.

“Besides,” the angel-like tone was back, and he stepped right in front of Khalani, “some can even be put to good use. They are not all the villainous creatures you warn your children about, isn’t that right, girl?”

He was speaking directly to her. She could feel the weight of his gaze crawling on her skin, but she was afraid to peer into the eyes of her parent’s killer.

“Answer your Governor, prisoner!” The crack of a baton whipped out from the guards, and her head snapped up, heart racing.

The Governor held out his hand to the guard. “That’s not necessary. You can help ease Councilman Wyatt’s mind by affirming you aren’t dangerous, right?” His icy-blue eyes connected with hers, and she couldn’t look away. They were cold and distant, as if no life was left in them. Probably because he’d taken so many lives .

“Y-yes. Yes, sir. I am a loyal citizen of Apollo.” She bowed her head, gritting her teeth the whole time.

A part of her wanted to take the wooden end of the broom she held and smash it across his head. She would only have one chance to hit him before the guards stepped in and killed her. It would almost be worth it.

Doling out a tiny bit of revenge would give her instant gratification, but she was smart enough to know it wouldn’t be nearly enough. Her death wasn’t worth a small smack to the head. No.

He would need to suffer the same fate her parents did.

Alexander smiled down at her, his gaze warm and inviting, and she was again struck by his perfect beauty. “Good answer. You certainly don’t look like our average prisoner. What’s your name? Your real name.”

“It’s Khalani Kanes…sir,” she added, steadying her voice.

“And what did you do to warrant being put in prison?” He tilted his head to the side, the soft smile still present.

She hesitated, sensing a trap laid beneath her feet.

What if she told the Governor, and he decided her punishment wasn’t harsh enough and sentenced her to the surface?

Or it was a game, and he already knew what she was locked up for. The Governor could be testing Khalani to reveal the truth.

She’d have to take a chance.

“Governor Huxley, any crime against Apollo should warrant a sentence in Braderhelm. One would be a fool to think someone as intelligent as you would let anything go unnoticed in your city.” Khalani paused, weighing her next words.

He raised an eyebrow. “Go on.”

She gave him a polite smile. Time to lay it on thick.

“Dwelling on my past is pointless and a waste of your precious time. I am grateful for this opportunity to work the streets of Apollo and serve your will as Governor. My focus lies on building a greater Apollo in solidarity, strength, and spirit. Even if those efforts go unappreciated above,” Khalani let that last part slip as she lowered her head in submission .

Her hands tightened on the broom. She wanted to scream so loud that even those on Genesis could hear. She hated herself. Hated that she had to make this monster believe she only lived to serve him.

Did her boisterous thoughts ring loud, shouting that he’d never have her loyalty?

Did he know that all she wanted was his gruesome death?

“My, my.” Governor Huxley’s smile widened. “You are definitely more honest than the average prisoner. You would’ve made a better council member than some currently serving, isn’t that right, Wyatt?” he asked, without looking away from her.

“Yes, Great Governor Huxley,” Wyatt replied without hesitation.

Khalani couldn’t shake the gnawing pressure in her stomach. The amount of control the Governor had over everyone, even the councilmen he insulted, was mind-blowing and frightening.

“Well, we should be going. Much to discuss in improving these streets.” Alexander suddenly grabbed her hand that wasn’t holding the broom, lifted it up to his lips, and kissed the top.

She was so taken aback, her mouth hung open.

“It was a pleasure meeting you, Khalani Kanes. It’s beneficial to know my constituents better, even unfortunate ones like yourself. I’m sure we will meet again.” He smiled over her hand, finally releasing it, and turned to walk away, the councilmen following closely behind.

Her chin trembled. Time seemed to slow down. Sounds of people talking animatedly on the streets dulled into a low thrum. Khalani was sure if she stopped her breath, she could hear the machine of life slowly throbbing in her chest.

She stopped.

Did hold her breath.

Ba bump...ba bump...ba bump…

Her heart churned. How can hearts continue beating through the many cracks, fissures, and breaks?

Anyone who says time heals all wounds hasn’t had many wounds. Time masks all wounds. Time was a band-aid on a broken leg .

Meeting Alexander Huxley. Hearing his silky smooth, traitorous voice. Letting his lips touch her hand, the same lips that commanded countless guards to murder innocent people, her parents included.

She shook her head to the ceiling, blinking back tears.

How much were they expected to give when all Apollo did was take?

“Get back to work!” one of the guards yelled at her.

Khalani’s gaze kept returning to the top of her hand, where the Governor kissed her. She wanted to rub her skin raw and wipe his disgusting stain from her existence.

She was more determined to help Winnie, but no one had approached her yet, and the guards started directing the prisoners toward the transports.

The message must not have been sent out.

Khalani kept her head down, still in her dark thoughts, when a loud shout sounded throughout the cavern.

Her mouth dropped open as a fire rapidly grew in one of the food storage buildings. People gathered and screamed for help. The guards in her group ran toward the commotion and yelled for the fire brigade.

“That will keep them occupied a few minutes.”

She jumped. A middle-aged man with dark skin snuck up to her side. Speckles of grey ran through his black hair, and he stared at the fire with a slight grin.

“You did this?” she whispered in shock.

“I would have come sooner, but the Governor’s arrival made the guards more perceptive than usual. Had to improvise. Name’s Charles.”

A huge balm of relief rushed through her. “I didn’t think you were coming.”

“I will always help Winnie.” He reached into his jacket and handed her a few sheets of paper.

She glanced around warily. No one was looking their way or paying attention to them. Everyone’s focus was on the fire. She quickly grabbed the sheets of paper and folded them into her pocket .

“Thank you,” she said.

Charles nodded and gave her a solemn look. “Good luck in Braderhelm. Tell Winnie I said hi.”

With that, he swiftly walked away, leaving behind the fiery chaos. People sighed in relief as the fire brigade arrived and put the last flames out.

She put her hand in her pocket, making sure the precious items were solidly in place. The guards walked back toward the prisoners, wiping sweat off their foreheads.

“Let’s go!” the lead guard shouted angrily, waving his hand toward the transports.

The prisoners in both groups moved quickly. As she got in one of the vehicles, she noticed Dana eyeing her suspiciously.

Khalani ignored the sinking feeling as they returned to Braderhelm Prison. But when she walked back to her cell, Dana stepped in front of her, arms folded against her chest.

She sighed. “What do you want, Dana?”

“I couldn’t help but notice you talking to someone while the guards were focused on the fire. What did he give you?” Dana asked.

Her heart hammered, but Khalani played it off. “Nothing to do with you.” She walked around her.

“I know it was papers,” Dana said. “Did he give you information about escape routes or changing of the guards?”

“No.” Her brows snapped together as she turned. “There is no escaping Braderhelm. How come I know that, and you don’t?”

“Not for you, there isn’t.”

Khalani frowned and stopped in her tracks, but Dana had already walked away.