ATTENTION ALL WRITERS! C'MON!!!

[Ihavesomechickens]

Here is chapter two.

Spoiler: Cricket Book Chapter 2

"What is that pile of pebbles doing there?" a brown nymph asked as we hopped.

"That is not a pile of pebbles," Grumpylump snapped, "that is the Wall, as should be regarded as such."

"Why is the Wall there?" Another piped up.

"It's a long story. You'll hear it in the Learning Center." She dismissed.

"Please, Nurse 24?" Begged the first.

Grumpylump sighed loudly, but gave in.

"A long time ago, before anyone here hatched, crickets used to sing." Grumpylump started her story. "At nights, male crickets would run their wings together, file and scraper, to create the music.

"But then the Ormia came. They would follow the sound of cricket chirps and lay their eggs inside of the crickets. The eggs would hatch and eat away at the victim from the inside. Within two weeks, the Ormia would eat their way out and fly away, to lay more eggs in more crickets.

"And so you see, chirping endangered crickets. The solution was simple; to stop chirping. So we did. The males grew flatwings, like the females. We did not sing anymore. No crickets sing anymore. For the safety of all cricket kind, we gave up our music for survival. And it must stay this way forever. If the Ormia were to find us, we'd all be goners.

"A couple crickets -oh how wise they were!- gathered all the remaining crickets together and guided them in building a wall to keep the Ormia and other predators out. It keeps us safe. It keeps us alive. We need the wall, without it we would all be dead." Grumpylump finished the speech on an ominous note.

There was silence for a moment, except for the tap, tap, tap, of feet against the dirt.

"If we don't chirp, then why do we need the wall?" I asked, quietly.

Grumpylump either didn't hear, or she purposely ignored me. "Here we are, at the Learning Center. Goodbye 19Ys." Then she promptly turned and hopped over our heads towards the direction of the Nursery.

That is a great chapter! Science-y ish, I like it.

 

[PioneerChicks]

That is a great chapter! Science-y ish, I like it.

Thank you! Yeah, Omia Ochracea are actually real insects that will follow the chirps of crickets and lays eggs inside of them, and the young will really eat the crickets from the inside out. I'm trying to follow the real rules of nature as much as possible in this book.

 

[Cutiechook15]

Okay, sorry, this chapter is really choppy, the dialogue sucks, and there are so many characters to keep track of. Anyway here it is.

Spoiler: Chapter 8

As I crawled down the dark tunnel, my leg burned and dribbled hot wetness down onto my tennis shoe.

I had to force myself not to think about the tightness of the enclosed space. There were people in front of me, crawling and muttering, and Lucas and Mike were behind me. I was trapped.

No, this is just leading to the next test. I told myself. And a new blood-free shirt.

I took a deep breath of the musty and hot air, tainted with the smell of sweaty bodies and mildew. It didn’t help to calm me. I shuddered but continued to crawl despite my shaken nerves and exhausted body.

I swear I’ll never run again if I don’t have to, I thought, clenching my jaw in frustration. I was incredibly out of shape, and, if anything, I hoped I would come out of this testing thing with at least a six-pack.

“We’re nearing an opening!” Someone called from the front. I let out a breath in relief. The coward in me was writhing at being in this tight of a space, but I kept going, imagining open air and rolling hills. When I get out of here, I’m living in the country.

In the country, where it’s nice and quiet, with a lot of open space. I wondered vaguely if I had lived in the country before, then I stopped myself. Don’t remember.

I shivered as I felt something wet underneath my hand. My leg throbbed. My pack weighed heavy on my back. Frustration and tension grew inside of my chest, making it hurt, but I forced myself not to complain or cry. As we crawled, a dim light began to shine from up ahead where someone had opened a hole leading to whatever test was next.

Someone’s stomach growled from ahead of me, and I realized how hungry I was. “Lucas,” I called quietly behind me, hesitating slightly as I almost called him Brickhead.

He grunted in reply.

“Can we eat something after we get out of the tunnel?”

Mike’s chuckle carried up from behind Lucas. I rolled my eyes.

“I’ll pass out some jerky sticks,” Lucas said almost grudgingly.

Nina’s voice called out from the light source. “It’s clear!”

People began jumping out of the tunnel, and I followed, eager to get out of the cramped confines. I landed hard, falling to my knees. I picked myself up, only to meet Mason’s concerned eyes.

“You good?” He asked hesitantly.

“I’m fine.” There was extreme exhaustion in my voice. My jaw clenched. I hadn't been able to finish the test on my own. I had had help from both Mason and Mike. One day I would do a test all by myself. I would be bolder and stronger.

Mason nodded, relaxing slightly. It did feel good to know that he cared about my wellbeing.

But, I didn’t like having to rely on others for my safety. It made me feel weak. Helpless.

Camaryn made her way over to me, linking her arm in mine. “You made it! Thank goodness!”

I smiled at her as we walked to the corner of the smaller room to make room for Lucas and Mike. “What is this place?”

She glanced around at the greyness of it. “I don’t know, but there’s a speaker in the wall. Perhaps another test is going to be announced?” She pointed it out to me.

I sighed. I was still exhausted after the past test. Heck, all of us were worn out. Who would die next?

Then I realized it as I counted our numbers.

“Cam,” I said, amazed. “No one died in this last test. All 14 of us are here.”

Her eyes scanned the room, then a smile formed on her lips. “Good. Oh, that’s really good.”

“It was all teamwork,” Nox said with a grin as he joined us. “Let’s try to keep it this way.” He clapped me gently on the shoulder in a friendly gesture. “Good to have you with us, Skylar.”

I smiled. “Thanks.”

The voice suddenly came on the speakers, clearing their throat. I jumped, hitting the wall behind me. The robotic voice never ceased to creep me out. It’s androgidous voice was too jovial. Like they enjoyed putting us in danger.

As it began to speak, the room’s quiet chatter fell to a deadly silence as we awaited whatever was coming next.

Ahem… Ahem… Am I on? Testing, testing… All righty! Hello, my dear Guinea pigs! I was quite happy to hear that you passed the last test without any… consequences. Anyway, your next test will not be a team event. Each of you will have to use your wit, common sense, and determination to get through this. And, your life should not be in danger, unless you break one of the rules or you run out of time.

My eyebrows furrowed, and I caught eyes with Lucas. This could either turn out to be a good thing, or a horrible thing.

I can’t tell you too much, don’t want to spoil it. The voice giggled, as if it were pleased with itself for being so sneaky. You will go in one at a time, and when your testing ends, you can watch the rest of your group as they are tested. You will have five minutes to finish the test. Your goal is to reach the other side of the room. Don’t worry… It’s not that big. Wink, wink.

“Did he just say ‘Wink wink’?” Nox whispered to me, an amused smirk on his face. The edges of my lips turned upwards.

The rules are simple. Do not help the one who is being tested. Oh, and Lucas, don’t worry about figuring out what order you’ll go in. Lucas started, staring at the speaker. We’ve already decided. You’ll find the list on top of Mason and Skylar’s new shirts. Any questions?

I glanced at Camaryn and was shocked at the look of pure hatred on her face. She stood there, fists clenched and nose flared, her dark blue eyes fixated upon the silver speaker. Her voice was quiet, but in the silence, it carried somehow with a power I hadn’t seen in her since the first day I had met her. “How dare you?”

Stunned silence.

She spoke louder, her voice shaking slightly. “Whatever this is for, it isn’t worth ending a person’s life, let alone children.” She spit the last word out with a bitterness I had never seen in her before.

A small gasp of horror was heard over the speaker.

Miss Photo, I assure you, our purpose is honorable. If your memory were still intact, you would know that already. After all, you were the one to set the whole thing into motion.

Silence.

Camaryn’s face slowly morphed from furious to confused to horrified. Tears began filling her large blue eyes.

The voice became soft and reserved. You will find out all the answers soon enough. Remember, Get to the other side of the room, and in five minutes. I… Sincerely hope you all finish this test in the same manner as the last one. You have five minutes before the first person enters. There was a small sigh, then the com clicked out.

The silence afterwards was thick, everyone, including myself, staring at Camaryn in horrified shock.

Sweet and genuine Cam was the one who set everything into motion? How? And why would she be part of this?

A tear slid down Camaryn’s face, her eyes darting back and forth like a frightened animal.

I glanced around as the shocked expressions turned into glares, mutterings coming from all around. Mason and Nox looked concernedly around, while Lucas frowned and shrugged.

Then, I found myself in front of the cowering girl, sweaty fists clenched at my sides. “All right… You heard the voice. We have five minutes before we need to start moving. Lucas has the order now, so get your direction from him, and line up!” My voice was quiet, but stern. To be honest, I may have imitated Nina’s tone slightly, which was probably why it worked so well. Everyone, some grudgingly, made their way over to Lucas and got their order.

I turned to Camaryn, but I didn’t say anything. I just wrapped my arms around her and pulled her close. It seemed like it was the right thing, because soon she stood straighter and wiped her eyes.

“How…” Her jaw clenched and her lip quivered again. “How could I have done this? Skylar, I murdered two people.”

“No,” I said bluntly. “You don’t know that what the voice said was true. They could be lying to mess with you.”

“Did it seem like they were lying?” She looked up at me, tears leaking out of the corners of her eyes.

“You don’t know. We’re not making any decisions on this until we get proof. Don’t worry.”

Cam nodded, folding her arms around herself. She wasn’t okay, but I didn’t know what else to say.

“Skylar,” Mason called from the other side of the room. I turned to see something gray flying towards my face. Instinctively, I caught it, then realized what it was.

“Thanks!” I said with a tight smile, waving back to him as he straightened his new and clean gray tank top.

I slipped it on quickly and threw the bloody one into the corner, my face turning red. No one was watching anyway, so I guessed it didn’t matter.

A little bit of time had passed, and Lucas pulled out his watch. “Only thirty seconds left.”

He glanced up and caught my eye. “Quinn! You’re going after Mike.”

I nodded, watching as the small boy I had helped made his way to the door, trembling. Would he be okay?

The light grey door swung open, letting in a puff of steam that concealed the interior of the next room.. Whoever actually created this testing chamber must’ve had a flair for the dramatic.

The boy entered, and the door shut behind him. I muttered a quiet prayer on his behalf.

Then, we all waited in silence. It was excruciating. I walked over to Camaryn, who was still crying softly in the corner, her eyes puffy and red. I slipped my hand in hers, giving her an encouraging squeeze.

Lucas pushed a small red-haired girl up to the front, and she squeaked softly, hands over her mouth. I caught sight of Vicky behind Lucas, watching everything from behind her glasses with very observant eyes. What was her ability? I narrowed my eyes, curiosity springing to life in my chest.

It had to be something special. If it wasn’t, then why keep it a secret? It was good to have an advantage, but it wasn’t like this was a contest… Maybe she kept it a secret because she was embarrassed about how lame of a power she had. Then why did she smirk, as if she were fearless? Why did the aura around her scream dangerous? She was small and seemingly inconspicuous, but the way she quietly observed everything and everyone was... creepy.

The door opened again, letting out another rolling steam cloud. Mason reached down and waved his hand in it like the child that he was. The girl timidly tiptoed into the room, and the door shut.

I turned my eyes back to Vicky. She was now standing beside Lucas, her small hand resting on his elbow. He looked down at her, and his face softened. It wasn’t a smile, but the worry creases and furrowed brows softened. Come to think of it, I didn’t think I had ever seen him smile before.

Then, he handed her the order paper and adjusted his packs, a look of determination on his face.

Oh my gosh, I realized. He’s going next.

My hand began getting sweaty in Cam’s, so I let go and wiped it on my leggings, which were now dusty and grimy from the tunnel we had been crawling through.

Nox came up beside me and tapped my elbow. “You’re bleeding.”

I started. “Where?”

He pointed down to my calf, which had a slow stream of blood oozing down the dime-sized hole in my leg.

“Crap.” I said, my teeth clenched. I immediately felt the dull throb of pain when he said it, along with an intense thirst. I had forgotten not only about my wound, but I had forgotten to drink water after my intense run.

I leaned down, letting the pack slip from my shoulders. I unhooked the canteen from the side, and took several gulps. My leg wasn’t totally covered in blood, but the wound was fairly deep.

Nox opened his bag, and took out what looked like gauze and bandages.

I winced as he poured water over my wound, wiping the blood up with some gauze. He put another layer of clean gauze on the hole and wrapped bandages around it. When he finished, he looked back up at me with a triumphant grin.

“I think I’ve done a good job, considering I’ve never done that before,” he said.

“Thanks,” I said softly, feeling the wound. It still ached, but I wasn’t complaining.

The door slid open with a hissing sound, another bout of steam entering our tiny room. I stood, peering out into the rolling mist, trying to see what was on the other side. Lucas walked in and the door closed before I could get a good look, however.

Nox sat down beside me, face sober. “I wonder what is out there.”

“Yeah, the next room has me curious too,” I said, a yawn escaping my mouth.

“No, not the room,” he said softly. “The world. Like where we used to be. I can’t help but wonder if we were put here for a reason.”

My eyebrows furrowed as I remembered the searing pain in my head the night before. “Sometimes it’s best not to remember,” I said carefully.

He glanced at me with a look I couldn’t really discern. I prayed that he would take my advice and not try to pull up any memories.

I closed my eyes and began drifting off, ignoring the growling of my stomach. It was too bad that Lucas had taken the food with him. He had promised me a jerky stick.

As I went off into the depths of my mind, I recalled the abilities I had used. There was the larynx reconstructed thing and the strength meter. I had not yet learned how to do the illusions. There was time to work on that now.

I pulled myself up, ignoring the ache that was growing in my leg muscles. Nox looked up at me, startled.

“Where are you going?” He asked.

I debated whether or not to tell him. What harm could come from being honest? “I’m trying to make an illusion.”

His eyebrows furrowed in confusion for a moment, then realization hit him. “That’s your ability, right?”

I nodded.

“Can I help?”

I stared at him for a long moment. “How could you help me?”

“I dunno. But I’m sure I could help.”

He looked so eager, I almost laughed. Instead, I shrugged, a grin pulling at the edges of my lips. “Why not.”

Grinning, he stood. “Okay, take one.”

I gave him a confused half smile. Then I stared at the area in front of me. It was slightly empty, giving me room to work. Pulling out my paper, I reminded myself of what I would be doing.

Manipulation of air molecules and prisms to create mirages and illusions.

I stuffed it back into my pocket, and put my hands in front of me. Okay, manipulate those prisms, Skylar. I thought of the air molecules and that sort of thing and waved my hands in the air, my eyes closed tightly.

When I opened my eyes, there was a person there. A spike of excitement shot through me.

Then I realized it was Nox. My spirits dropped immediately. “Nox, please get out of the way,” I said through clenched teeth.

The doors opened again, and Nina entered confidently, her stride unwavering. I barely glanced towards them before trying again. Nox moved to my side as I once again waved my arms around. I probably look like a dang fool right now. My fists clenched.

I stared at the air in front of me, glaring at it. I tried again, and again, and again.

I got nothing.

After maybe the fourteenth try, I slumped back against the wall.

“Hey, hey, don’t give up!” Nox said, crouching down beside me.

I felt a spike of annoyance. “I’m not giving up,” I snapped, fingering the front of my shirt. “I’m just tired. I’ll try again later.”

He shrugged.

I glanced at the door as it opened again. Three more people that I didn’t know well had gone, including that Marie girl that had been hanging out with Camaryn. I sat there for a moment, watching as a blond boy swaggered up to the front. It wasn’t a proud swagger, it was just a strange way to walk, as if he were putting too much weight on his right leg.

He didn’t look nervous, just numb. It was like he didn’t know what to feel. His eyes looked hollow.

I flinched, looking away. That hurt to look at for some strange reason. It made my chest ache with something that was deeper than physical pain.

After the boy had gone in, Camaryn walked up to Vicky, cringing away from the dirty looks the others were giving her. Her eyes caught mine, and I saw panic in them. I stood so fast that I stumbled over my feet. I heard a noise behind me from Nox, but I ignored it. When I reached her, I grabbed her hand and gave it a squeeze. Her palm was sweaty and cold. I could feel her muscles shaking beside me. Why had what the voice said affected her so much?

The door opened a few seconds later. My jaw dropped slightly. So quick. He had gone even faster than Lucas. Either he had made it, or… I gritted my teeth.

Camaryn gave a convulsive shudder as she stared at the steam.

“You got this,” I whispered, giving her a gentle shove towards the door. She continued, her eyes wide, and the door slammed shut behind her.

I let out a breath.

I jumped out of my skin as Vicky touched my arm. A yelp escaped my lips, and I heard a snicker from Mason’s direction.

I’ll get him later. I thought.

Turning towards Vicky, my face prickled with heat as it turned red from embarrassment. I also felt disappointed. I had hoped that the jumpy reflexes would only last the first day because of sensory and mental overload. But, I guess these were a part of me.

Vicky wasn’t phased at all. She shoved the paper into my hands. “That was nice of you to help her like that,” she said in her quiet and low voice. Tucking her short, light brown hair behind her ears, she stood in front of the door in a position that was similar to the military stance that Lucas often used.

Soon, the door slid open. Was Camaryn okay? I closed my eyes and took a deep breath to calm myself, and when I opened them, Vicky was already gone, the door shutting behind her. I glanced at the list in my hand. Mike was next, then me, Mason, and Nox. I shivered. What was behind that steam?

I met Mike’s eyes, and he gave me a small side smile. I made a face just to see what he would do, sticking my tongue out and crossing my eyes. He looked startled, and I grinned. A smile formed on his face.

I walked closer to him, feeling awkward to speak to him from a long distance. “You’re next.”

He opened his mouth to respond, but stiffened as Mason entered into our conversation.

“Hey, Speedo boy,” he said, standing close to me. There was an iciness to his tone, despite his seemingly friendly smile. He stood slightly in front of me, as if he were protecting me. It sent a spike of annoyance in my chest.

Mike’s eyebrows drew together in a glare. “Hello, Mr. Incredible.”

There was a tense silence, as Mike and Mason stared at each other, neither one wanting to back down. It was a contest of wills.

I looked back and forth at each of them. “Hello?”

Mike broke the stare first, looking at me, startled, as if he had forgotten I was there. Mason sheepishly ran his hand through his hair.

“Sorry,” Mike said, reminding me of what he had said the night before.

The door slid open suddenly, making me sigh in relief. Mike jogged to the door, and it shut behind him.

“Mason,” I snapped, punching him in the arm. “Be nice.”

He flinched slightly, backing up.

“It’s almost like you want him to fight you. What do you have against him?”

The door opened behind me. I jumped, not having expected that.

“Wow.” Mason said, a half smile forming on his face. “He’s fast.”

“Of course he is,” I snapped, rolling my eyes. I shoved the list of names in his hand and tried to leave.

Mason grabbed my hand, and I glanced back, surprised at myself for not jumping.

“Be safe.” He said, concern in his eyes.

I grinned. “Can’t promise anything.”

Then I jogged into the steam.

 

[PioneerChicks]

Okay, sorry, this chapter is really choppy, the dialogue sucks, and there are so many characters to keep track of. Anyway here it is.

Spoiler: Chapter 8

As I crawled down the dark tunnel, my leg burned and dribbled hot wetness down onto my tennis shoe.

I had to force myself not to think about the tightness of the enclosed space. There were people in front of me, crawling and muttering, and Lucas and Mike were behind me. I was trapped.

No, this is just leading to the next test. I told myself. And a new blood-free shirt.

I took a deep breath of the musty and hot air, tainted with the smell of sweaty bodies and mildew. It didn’t help to calm me. I shuddered but continued to crawl despite my shaken nerves and exhausted body.

I swear I’ll never run again if I don’t have to, I thought, clenching my jaw in frustration. I was incredibly out of shape, and, if anything, I hoped I would come out of this testing thing with at least a six-pack.

“We’re nearing an opening!” Someone called from the front. I let out a breath in relief. The coward in me was writhing at being in this tight of a space, but I kept going, imagining open air and rolling hills. When I get out of here, I’m living in the country.

In the country, where it’s nice and quiet, with a lot of open space. I wondered vaguely if I had lived in the country before, then I stopped myself. Don’t remember.

I shivered as I felt something wet underneath my hand. My leg throbbed. My pack weighed heavy on my back. Frustration and tension grew inside of my chest, making it hurt, but I forced myself not to complain or cry. As we crawled, a dim light began to shine from up ahead where someone had opened a hole leading to whatever test was next.

Someone’s stomach growled from ahead of me, and I realized how hungry I was. “Lucas,” I called quietly behind me, hesitating slightly as I almost called him Brickhead.

He grunted in reply.

“Can we eat something after we get out of the tunnel?”

Mike’s chuckle carried up from behind Lucas. I rolled my eyes.

“I’ll pass out some jerky sticks,” Lucas said almost grudgingly.

Nina’s voice called out from the light source. “It’s clear!”

People began jumping out of the tunnel, and I followed, eager to get out of the cramped confines. I landed hard, falling to my knees. I picked myself up, only to meet Mason’s concerned eyes.

“You good?” He asked hesitantly.

“I’m fine.” There was extreme exhaustion in my voice. My jaw clenched. I hadn't been able to finish the test on my own. I had had help from both Mason and Mike. One day I would do a test all by myself. I would be bolder and stronger.

Mason nodded, relaxing slightly. It did feel good to know that he cared about my wellbeing.

But, I didn’t like having to rely on others for my safety. It made me feel weak. Helpless.

Camaryn made her way over to me, linking her arm in mine. “You made it! Thank goodness!”

I smiled at her as we walked to the corner of the smaller room to make room for Lucas and Mike. “What is this place?”

She glanced around at the greyness of it. “I don’t know, but there’s a speaker in the wall. Perhaps another test is going to be announced?” She pointed it out to me.

I sighed. I was still exhausted after the past test. Heck, all of us were worn out. Who would die next?

Then I realized it as I counted our numbers.

“Cam,” I said, amazed. “No one died in this last test. All 14 of us are here.”

Her eyes scanned the room, then a smile formed on her lips. “Good. Oh, that’s really good.”

“It was all teamwork,” Nox said with a grin as he joined us. “Let’s try to keep it this way.” He clapped me gently on the shoulder in a friendly gesture. “Good to have you with us, Skylar.”

I smiled. “Thanks.”

The voice suddenly came on the speakers, clearing their throat. I jumped, hitting the wall behind me. The robotic voice never ceased to creep me out. It’s androgidous voice was too jovial. Like they enjoyed putting us in danger.

As it began to speak, the room’s quiet chatter fell to a deadly silence as we awaited whatever was coming next.

Ahem… Ahem… Am I on? Testing, testing… All righty! Hello, my dear Guinea pigs! I was quite happy to hear that you passed the last test without any… consequences. Anyway, your next test will not be a team event. Each of you will have to use your wit, common sense, and determination to get through this. And, your life should not be in danger, unless you break one of the rules or you run out of time.

My eyebrows furrowed, and I caught eyes with Lucas. This could either turn out to be a good thing, or a horrible thing.

I can’t tell you too much, don’t want to spoil it. The voice giggled, as if it were pleased with itself for being so sneaky. You will go in one at a time, and when your testing ends, you can watch the rest of your group as they are tested. You will have five minutes to finish the test. Your goal is to reach the other side of the room. Don’t worry… It’s not that big. Wink, wink.

“Did he just say ‘Wink wink’?” Nox whispered to me, an amused smirk on his face. The edges of my lips turned upwards.

The rules are simple. Do not help the one who is being tested. Oh, and Lucas, don’t worry about figuring out what order you’ll go in. Lucas started, staring at the speaker. We’ve already decided. You’ll find the list on top of Mason and Skylar’s new shirts. Any questions?

I glanced at Camaryn and was shocked at the look of pure hatred on her face. She stood there, fists clenched and nose flared, her dark blue eyes fixated upon the silver speaker. Her voice was quiet, but in the silence, it carried somehow with a power I hadn’t seen in her since the first day I had met her. “How dare you?”

Stunned silence.

She spoke louder, her voice shaking slightly. “Whatever this is for, it isn’t worth ending a person’s life, let alone children.” She spit the last word out with a bitterness I had never seen in her before.

A small gasp of horror was heard over the speaker.

Miss Photo, I assure you, our purpose is honorable. If your memory were still intact, you would know that already. After all, you were the one to set the whole thing into motion.

Silence.

Camaryn’s face slowly morphed from furious to confused to horrified. Tears began filling her large blue eyes.

The voice became soft and reserved. You will find out all the answers soon enough. Remember, Get to the other side of the room, and in five minutes. I… Sincerely hope you all finish this test in the same manner as the last one. You have five minutes before the first person enters. There was a small sigh, then the com clicked out.

The silence afterwards was thick, everyone, including myself, staring at Camaryn in horrified shock.

Sweet and genuine Cam was the one who set everything into motion? How? And why would she be part of this?

A tear slid down Camaryn’s face, her eyes darting back and forth like a frightened animal.

I glanced around as the shocked expressions turned into glares, mutterings coming from all around. Mason and Nox looked concernedly around, while Lucas frowned and shrugged.

Then, I found myself in front of the cowering girl, sweaty fists clenched at my sides. “All right… You heard the voice. We have five minutes before we need to start moving. Lucas has the order now, so get your direction from him, and line up!” My voice was quiet, but stern. To be honest, I may have imitated Nina’s tone slightly, which was probably why it worked so well. Everyone, some grudgingly, made their way over to Lucas and got their order.

I turned to Camaryn, but I didn’t say anything. I just wrapped my arms around her and pulled her close. It seemed like it was the right thing, because soon she stood straighter and wiped her eyes.

“How…” Her jaw clenched and her lip quivered again. “How could I have done this? Skylar, I murdered two people.”

“No,” I said bluntly. “You don’t know that what the voice said was true. They could be lying to mess with you.”

“Did it seem like they were lying?” She looked up at me, tears leaking out of the corners of her eyes.

“You don’t know. We’re not making any decisions on this until we get proof. Don’t worry.”

Cam nodded, folding her arms around herself. She wasn’t okay, but I didn’t know what else to say.

“Skylar,” Mason called from the other side of the room. I turned to see something gray flying towards my face. Instinctively, I caught it, then realized what it was.

“Thanks!” I said with a tight smile, waving back to him as he straightened his new and clean gray tank top.

I slipped it on quickly and threw the bloody one into the corner, my face turning red. No one was watching anyway, so I guessed it didn’t matter.

A little bit of time had passed, and Lucas pulled out his watch. “Only thirty seconds left.”

He glanced up and caught my eye. “Quinn! You’re going after Mike.”

I nodded, watching as the small boy I had helped made his way to the door, trembling. Would he be okay?

The light grey door swung open, letting in a puff of steam that concealed the interior of the next room.. Whoever actually created this testing chamber must’ve had a flair for the dramatic.

The boy entered, and the door shut behind him. I muttered a quiet prayer on his behalf.

Then, we all waited in silence. It was excruciating. I walked over to Camaryn, who was still crying softly in the corner, her eyes puffy and red. I slipped my hand in hers, giving her an encouraging squeeze.

Lucas pushed a small red-haired girl up to the front, and she squeaked softly, hands over her mouth. I caught sight of Vicky behind Lucas, watching everything from behind her glasses with very observant eyes. What was her ability? I narrowed my eyes, curiosity springing to life in my chest.

It had to be something special. If it wasn’t, then why keep it a secret? It was good to have an advantage, but it wasn’t like this was a contest… Maybe she kept it a secret because she was embarrassed about how lame of a power she had. Then why did she smirk, as if she were fearless? Why did the aura around her scream dangerous? She was small and seemingly inconspicuous, but the way she quietly observed everything and everyone was... creepy.

The door opened again, letting out another rolling steam cloud. Mason reached down and waved his hand in it like the child that he was. The girl timidly tiptoed into the room, and the door shut.

I turned my eyes back to Vicky. She was now standing beside Lucas, her small hand resting on his elbow. He looked down at her, and his face softened. It wasn’t a smile, but the worry creases and furrowed brows softened. Come to think of it, I didn’t think I had ever seen him smile before.

Then, he handed her the order paper and adjusted his packs, a look of determination on his face.

Oh my gosh, I realized. He’s going next.

My hand began getting sweaty in Cam’s, so I let go and wiped it on my leggings, which were now dusty and grimy from the tunnel we had been crawling through.

Nox came up beside me and tapped my elbow. “You’re bleeding.”

I started. “Where?”

He pointed down to my calf, which had a slow stream of blood oozing down the dime-sized hole in my leg.

“Crap.” I said, my teeth clenched. I immediately felt the dull throb of pain when he said it, along with an intense thirst. I had forgotten not only about my wound, but I had forgotten to drink water after my intense run.

I leaned down, letting the pack slip from my shoulders. I unhooked the canteen from the side, and took several gulps. My leg wasn’t totally covered in blood, but the wound was fairly deep.

Nox opened his bag, and took out what looked like gauze and bandages.

I winced as he poured water over my wound, wiping the blood up with some gauze. He put another layer of clean gauze on the hole and wrapped bandages around it. When he finished, he looked back up at me with a triumphant grin.

“I think I’ve done a good job, considering I’ve never done that before,” he said.

“Thanks,” I said softly, feeling the wound. It still ached, but I wasn’t complaining.

The door slid open with a hissing sound, another bout of steam entering our tiny room. I stood, peering out into the rolling mist, trying to see what was on the other side. Lucas walked in and the door closed before I could get a good look, however.

Nox sat down beside me, face sober. “I wonder what is out there.”

“Yeah, the next room has me curious too,” I said, a yawn escaping my mouth.

“No, not the room,” he said softly. “The world. Like where we used to be. I can’t help but wonder if we were put here for a reason.”

My eyebrows furrowed as I remembered the searing pain in my head the night before. “Sometimes it’s best not to remember,” I said carefully.

He glanced at me with a look I couldn’t really discern. I prayed that he would take my advice and not try to pull up any memories.

I closed my eyes and began drifting off, ignoring the growling of my stomach. It was too bad that Lucas had taken the food with him. He had promised me a jerky stick.

As I went off into the depths of my mind, I recalled the abilities I had used. There was the larynx reconstructed thing and the strength meter. I had not yet learned how to do the illusions. There was time to work on that now.

I pulled myself up, ignoring the ache that was growing in my leg muscles. Nox looked up at me, startled.

“Where are you going?” He asked.

I debated whether or not to tell him. What harm could come from being honest? “I’m trying to make an illusion.”

His eyebrows furrowed in confusion for a moment, then realization hit him. “That’s your ability, right?”

I nodded.

“Can I help?”

I stared at him for a long moment. “How could you help me?”

“I dunno. But I’m sure I could help.”

He looked so eager, I almost laughed. Instead, I shrugged, a grin pulling at the edges of my lips. “Why not.”

Grinning, he stood. “Okay, take one.”

I gave him a confused half smile. Then I stared at the area in front of me. It was slightly empty, giving me room to work. Pulling out my paper, I reminded myself of what I would be doing.

Manipulation of air molecules and prisms to create mirages and illusions.

I stuffed it back into my pocket, and put my hands in front of me. Okay, manipulate those prisms, Skylar. I thought of the air molecules and that sort of thing and waved my hands in the air, my eyes closed tightly.

When I opened my eyes, there was a person there. A spike of excitement shot through me.

Then I realized it was Nox. My spirits dropped immediately. “Nox, please get out of the way,” I said through clenched teeth.

The doors opened again, and Nina entered confidently, her stride unwavering. I barely glanced towards them before trying again. Nox moved to my side as I once again waved my arms around. I probably look like a dang fool right now. My fists clenched.

I stared at the air in front of me, glaring at it. I tried again, and again, and again.

I got nothing.

After maybe the fourteenth try, I slumped back against the wall.

“Hey, hey, don’t give up!” Nox said, crouching down beside me.

I felt a spike of annoyance. “I’m not giving up,” I snapped, fingering the front of my shirt. “I’m just tired. I’ll try again later.”

He shrugged.

I glanced at the door as it opened again. Three more people that I didn’t know well had gone, including that Marie girl that had been hanging out with Camaryn. I sat there for a moment, watching as a blond boy swaggered up to the front. It wasn’t a proud swagger, it was just a strange way to walk, as if he were putting too much weight on his right leg.

He didn’t look nervous, just numb. It was like he didn’t know what to feel. His eyes looked hollow.

I flinched, looking away. That hurt to look at for some strange reason. It made my chest ache with something that was deeper than physical pain.

After the boy had gone in, Camaryn walked up to Vicky, cringing away from the dirty looks the others were giving her. Her eyes caught mine, and I saw panic in them. I stood so fast that I stumbled over my feet. I heard a noise behind me from Nox, but I ignored it. When I reached her, I grabbed her hand and gave it a squeeze. Her palm was sweaty and cold. I could feel her muscles shaking beside me. Why had what the voice said affected her so much?

The door opened a few seconds later. My jaw dropped slightly. So quick. He had gone even faster than Lucas. Either he had made it, or… I gritted my teeth.

Camaryn gave a convulsive shudder as she stared at the steam.

“You got this,” I whispered, giving her a gentle shove towards the door. She continued, her eyes wide, and the door slammed shut behind her.

I let out a breath.

I jumped out of my skin as Vicky touched my arm. A yelp escaped my lips, and I heard a snicker from Mason’s direction.

I’ll get him later. I thought.

Turning towards Vicky, my face prickled with heat as it turned red from embarrassment. I also felt disappointed. I had hoped that the jumpy reflexes would only last the first day because of sensory and mental overload. But, I guess these were a part of me.

Vicky wasn’t phased at all. She shoved the paper into my hands. “That was nice of you to help her like that,” she said in her quiet and low voice. Tucking her short, light brown hair behind her ears, she stood in front of the door in a position that was similar to the military stance that Lucas often used.

Soon, the door slid open. Was Camaryn okay? I closed my eyes and took a deep breath to calm myself, and when I opened them, Vicky was already gone, the door shutting behind her. I glanced at the list in my hand. Mike was next, then me, Mason, and Nox. I shivered. What was behind that steam?

I met Mike’s eyes, and he gave me a small side smile. I made a face just to see what he would do, sticking my tongue out and crossing my eyes. He looked startled, and I grinned. A smile formed on his face.

I walked closer to him, feeling awkward to speak to him from a long distance. “You’re next.”

He opened his mouth to respond, but stiffened as Mason entered into our conversation.

“Hey, Speedo boy,” he said, standing close to me. There was an iciness to his tone, despite his seemingly friendly smile. He stood slightly in front of me, as if he were protecting me. It sent a spike of annoyance in my chest.

Mike’s eyebrows drew together in a glare. “Hello, Mr. Incredible.”

There was a tense silence, as Mike and Mason stared at each other, neither one wanting to back down. It was a contest of wills.

I looked back and forth at each of them. “Hello?”

Mike broke the stare first, looking at me, startled, as if he had forgotten I was there. Mason sheepishly ran his hand through his hair.

“Sorry,” Mike said, reminding me of what he had said the night before.

The door slid open suddenly, making me sigh in relief. Mike jogged to the door, and it shut behind him.

“Mason,” I snapped, punching him in the arm. “Be nice.”

He flinched slightly, backing up.

“It’s almost like you want him to fight you. What do you have against him?”

The door opened behind me. I jumped, not having expected that.

“Wow.” Mason said, a half smile forming on his face. “He’s fast.”

“Of course he is,” I snapped, rolling my eyes. I shoved the list of names in his hand and tried to leave.

Mason grabbed my hand, and I glanced back, surprised at myself for not jumping.

“Be safe.” He said, concern in his eyes.

I grinned. “Can’t promise anything.”

Then I jogged into the steam.

Good cliffhanger...

 

[Flufferes]

*rolls in on my heelys, capri sun in hand*
whats goin on in here

 

[Cutiechook15]

*rolls in on my heelys, capri sun in hand*
whats goin on in here

Nothin much, what's going on with you?

 

[Ihavesomechickens]

*rolls in on my heelys, capri sun in hand*
whats goin on in here

The frick I want a Capri sun.

 

[Flufferes]

Nothin much, what's going on with you?

nothin much here either my dude
just drinkin water and occasionally breathing
also weird comment but i feel like i recognize your username from like 2017/2016 even though it says you just joined this year

The frick I want a Capri sun.

i wish i had some real capri sun right now
all ive got is this
imaginary pouch
whats your favorite flavor

 

[Ihavesomechickens]

i wish i had some real capri sun right now
all ive got is this
imaginary pouch
whats your favorite flavor

lemonade, duh.

 

[Flufferes]

lemonade, duh.

ive never had the lemonade flavor ✌
just fruit punch