Rosalinda ducked under a fence as gunshots whizzed past her head. Her long brown hair caught on a piece of the fence causing her to be jerked back and scream in pain. Her hands quickly went up to break her hair free.

Heavy footsteps crunched on the gravel. A gunshot sounded again. Rosalinda broke free and continued running. A shout sounded. “STOP!”

She ignored the shout and kept running, zig-zagging as bullets flew by. Finally she made it into the woods. Her heart raced inside her, Rosalinda stopped beside a tree to catch her breath. The footsteps grew closer again, she slowly rounded the tree, the leaves crunching underneath of her. Just as she took a step out, a large animal trap snapped around her right ankle and lower part of her leg. She screamed in pain and fell down, trying to pry the metal jaws open. Rosalinda gasped in pain as she slowly slid closer to the tree.

“Did you hear that scream?” A deep male voice asked.

“Yeah!” A man lowered his voice and motioned to the tree with his gun. “I think she’s over there.”

They both crept closer and waved the other men over. The one made his way to the front and pointed his gun at Rosalinda. “Don’t shoot!” She screamed, then grimaced in pain. “Please...don’t....shoot.” She held up a hand, tears streamed down her face.

The other men came around to see what was going on. “Well, what’re we gonna do?” one asked.

“Well, bring her in, of course.” The man standing in front of her growled. “Not sure, he’ll like that she’s injured though.”

“Rest of you head out. I’ll get her loose and carry her back.” He knelt down as the others walked away. “You’re Rosalinda, right?” His voice was gentle.

“Y-yes.” She gulped as he touched the trap, sending pain shooting through her leg.

“I’m Keith.” He pulled the trap apart and grunted. It slowly moved apart. “Ok, move your leg out.”

Rosalinda pulled her leg out and bit back more tears, the pain was awful! She wasn’t sure how much more she could handle it. Keith let the trap snap again and pushed it away with his boot. “Can you walk?”

Rosalinda stood and slowly lowered her injured leg down but as soon as it touched the ground she yelped and fell back down. “N-no.”

Keith holstered his gun. “Well.” He sighed then knelt down and scooped her up.

Rosalinda gulped back whimpers of pain. This pain was nothing compared to the pain she would likely experience when he brought her back to the prisoner camp.

Rosalinda woke up lying in a bed. The plush matress enveloped her, a white sheet was spread over her. She tried to sit up, but fell back down, gasping as pain surged through her body. Tears gathered in her eyes, she was done for; she had failed her family, failed herself, and failed her friends.

Her hand lifted to wipe her tears away and she spotted an IV line in her arm. The door to the room opened and light poured in. A man walked in, it was Keith. He stopped beside her bed and glanced behind him, his hazel eyes were filled with concern. “Listen, whatever he tells you to do, you better do it. Even if it seems insane.” He whispered the words then left.

Rosalinda blinked, trying to keep his words in mind. They were similar to the rules she had learned whe she first arrived at the camp. Do as you’re told, when you’re told. The words echoed in her mind, causing her to shiver slightly.

A man walked in, his slick black hair shone in the light. His boots clomped loudly on the floor and his dark eyes held an evil glint. “Hello, Rosalinda.”

Rosalinda averted her eyes from his piercing gaze and stayed silent. He walked over to her bedside and picked up a clipboard. “So, I hear you tried to run away?” His voice held a strange calm; like a cobra entrancing it’s prey before striking deadly venom into the victim’s body. He leaned close, his breath blew softly on her face. “Answer the question.”

“Yes.” Rosalinda croaked, turning her head away from him.

He stepped back and glanced at her, his eyes narrowed. “And why?”

Rosalinda glared at him, she tried to hold the anger out of her voice, “Guess why!” She sucked in a deep breath. “You enslave us here, you took us from our families, and you kill us off one by one! Why else would I run away?”

The man tilted his head at her, then started laughing. It started deep in his throat then came out into an evil, rumbling laugh. “You think you’re so smart?” He set the clipboard down and grabbed a syringe, filled with what looked like a green-ish blue liquid, from the table. He walked closer to her. “I kept you alive for a reason.”

Rosalinda squirmed under his harsh stare. “What is that?” She nodded to his hand that held the syringe.

He grabbed her left arm and stretched it open, so that he could see her veins in the crook of her arm. “Something to help you relax, and do exactly as I say.” He grabbed a cotton swab and wiped her arm. The needle was brought to her arm and he paused.

Rosalinda resisted the urge to yank away. She turned her head and didn’t watch as he pushed the needle into her arm. After he injected the liquid into her, he stepped back.

He set the syringe down and watched her. Rosalinda felt a sense of calm wash over her, suddenly she panicked, this was exactly what the man wanted.

She fought to keep herself alert and awake, yet drowsiness took over and darkness filled her vision. In a matter of moments she fell into unconsiousness.

Keith held Rosalinda up, gently trying to wake her up. He glared at the chief, the man who had injected the unknown liquid into Rosalinda. “How could you!” He screamed at the man.

“This is madness!” He gently laid Rosalinda down, her body still laid limp.

“Calm down, Keith.” Carson, the chief, spoke in a low tone. “I had to, it’s the only way to get exactly what I want from her.”

Keith glared at him, his eyes smoldering from anger. “You. Are. Insane.” He spat out the words. “I can’t believe you would do that to a harmless girl!”

Carson laughed. “Harmless?” His expression turned sour. “She’s barely harmless. Keith, she knows too much. This drug will simply cause her to follow my orders.” He glanced at her. “And cause her to forget everything.”

“Carson, this was way over the edge.” Keith knelt down next to Rosalinda and stroked her hair softly.

“What do you care?” Carson walked over to a table and grabbed scissors. “We need to give her a slight makeover. Dye her hair and cut it.” He snapped the scissors slightly. “Then get her a uniform. She’ll be like every one of my obedient soldiers, except for you, since apparently you’re joining the rebel side. Standing up for a girl.” He huffed as he said the last couple words.

Keith glared at him. “You really are crazy. You are going mad, Carson.” He stood and faced Carson. “You also have no idea who I really am, do you.”

“I know you’re a soldier here, I know you’re going against me.” He grabbed another syringe and hid it underneath his coat.

“Do you know that Rosalinda is my sister?” He pushed Carson into a table. “Do you know my father is a commanding officer that you got in trouble? Do you know I’m working undercover?”

Carson stabbed the syringe into Keith’s arm and quickly injected the substance. “No, but I do know you will forget everything you just said.” He pulled the needle away and watched as Keith fell down, fighting the slip into unconsciousness. “I also know you will no longer be a rebel soldier in this camp.”

“This is madness, Carson.” Keith’s words came out slurred. “Madness. You will never get away with any of it.”

“Never get away with any of it? Well, we will see about that.” He laughed and busied himself with creating more of his mind-changing, controlling serum to control the other prisoners.

3 years later...

A teenaged girl trudged through the mud, her handcuffed hands held in front of her. A female soldier marched next to her, making sure her pace did not slow. “Stop!” A male voice called. A man marched up to where the girl was standing.

“Name?” He barked in her face.

She slowly brought her eyes to meet his. “Sage Bennett, sir.” It came out no louder than a whisper.

“Speak up!” Something snapped in his hand.

She cleared her throat and spoke a bit louder. “Sage Bennett, sir.”

He held a clipboard in his hands, marked something on it, and moved on. When he finished going through the line he marched to the front where everyone could see him. “There is one rule here you must follow at all times!” He barked at everyone. His eyes glanced over the whole line and stopped on Sage, sending shivers down her back. “That is to do as you’re told, when you’re told!” He pulled out a whip and it hissed through the air. The man snapped it several times making a few of the people in line jump. “Otherwise,” A smirk spread across his face. “You’ll suffer the consequences.”

Sage gulped, the wind whipped around her red-brown hair and sent her skirt wrapping around her legs. She blinked back stinging tears as she tried to focus on the soldier’s next words.

“You will be working in assigned stations.” He read off his clipboard. “I will read your name, work order, and your work number.” His voice mechanically read the list. “Frieda Aster, sewing, number 201. Destiny Belms, laundry, number 202. Sage Bennett, outdoor work, number 203.” His voice droned on as Sage forced herself to remember her work order and number.

Finally, the soldier finished reading the list. The female soldier standing next to Sage barked out orders like a robot. “Move ahead! Men form a line here. Women form a line here.” Her hands pointed to both sides of her. The men filed into line on her left side, most of them glaring and snarling. The women formed a line on the soldier’s right side.

A man dressed in a black suit walked out in front of them all. His dark eyes glowered; the mud squished under his boots as he stopped in front of the women’s line.

His eyes fell on Sage. “Name?” He asked.

Sage lifted her gaze and spoke. “Sage Bennett, sir.”

“Rosa, make sure she doesn’t do anything...” He paused, as if searching for the correct words. “Anything she might regret.” He placed something in the young woman’s hand. “If she does, just bring her to me, I’ll take care of it. She looks like she could be a troublemaker for this camp.” He smirked.

“Yes, Chief Carson.” Rosa nodded firmly, her black bangs bounced slightly against her forehead.

She turned to Sage, her expression hardened. “You heard the man.” Her voice bit the air as she spoke. “You better follow the rules.”

~*~

Sage wiped her dirty hands in her skirt. She sighed and picked up her hoe and stabbed at the thick gooey mud. Her arms, legs, and back ached from working for three hours straight. The hoe made a sound as though it hit something hard, she bent down and pulled a rock, tossing it into a pile with others. Her outdoor job for her first day, was to go through the muddy field and clear all the rocks. The mud coated her hands and she cringed, disliking the feeling of the wet dirt between her fingers.

“Worker 203! Report to the main office in five minutes.” A booming voice called out.

Sage gulped and dropped her hoe, running to a building. She made it to the building and looked at the male guard standing erect. “I-I was told to report to the main office.” She squeaked out.

“Number?” He asked through tight lips.

“203, sir.” Her hair blew into her eyes as she waited.

He opened the door to the building, his movements were mechanical, like a robot. “Down the hall, first room on the left.” His words came out with no emotion, like ice.

She slipped inside and walked softly to the room the guard instructed. Her fist raised to knock on the door when she heard voices from another room. The voice sounded familiar; Sage tiptoed to the direction of the voice and peeked around the corner of an opened door.

A young man, no older than 18, with rich brown hair stood talking. “Sir, I told you, I’m Ashton Hunningsworth.”

An angry voice came in reply. “That’s not what I was told.”

Sage peeked further around and gasped, her heart started racing. The man who claimed to be Asthon Hunningsworth was a man she knew. She leaned against the wall and tried to calm her racing heart. “It can’t be him.” She whispered.

Sage dared to peek once again, this time she saw Ashton’s face. His expression was hardened and stern, yet his blue eyes still held the same softness she remembered.

“Who are some of the new prisoners?” Ashton changed the subject. “Any we should be worried about?”

“One I’m very concerned about. She seems to be a bit too... how should i say it.” Carson paused a moment. “She’s a bit too much like Rosalinda.” He murmured.

“Sir?” Ashton asked, his eyes shifted to the door.

Sage darted back and slowly started walking towards the main office. Carson’s reply came. “Her name is Sage Bennett. I’m afraid she might be too curious for her own good.”

“Sage?” Ashton asked.

“What, you know her?” Carson dared to ask.

“No.. I mean, I knew someone by the name of Sage.” He let out a nervous laugh. “There’s no way it’d be the same girl though.”

A chair scraped across the floor and Sage heard footsteps head towards the door. She rushed over to the main office and stood, with her head bowed.

“I suppose you’re right Ashton.” Carson’s hand touched the doorknob. “I’m meeting with her now. Would you like to join me?” His voice seemed to hold a strange calm. “I might even leave you in charge of her; that way you can prove you really are Ashton Hunningsworth.”

Ashton stepped out and followed Carson. “I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to meet her.”

Sage kept her head low as the two men drew near. “Sage Bennett?” Carson asked, walked to the door of the main office.

“Yes, sir.” She gulped.

“Come in, come in.” He motioned for her to step inside. Ashton trailed behind. The door clicked shut behind her and Sage stood in front of a desk.

“Ashton, this is Sage.” Carson motioned to her. “Sage, this is guard, or soldier, Ashton Hunningsworth.”

Sage raised her eyes to meet his. Ashton stared at her in shock. “Uh, Chief Carson..” He voice trailed off.

“Ashton..” Carson cleared his throat then continued. “Sage, Soldier Ashton Hunningsworth will be your primary, shall we say, boss.” He handed Ashton a slip of paper, then hissed something low. “You know where to bring her if need be.”

Ashton nodded then led Sage out of the building.

~*~

Ashton grabbed Sage’s arm and pulled her away from everyone else. As soon as they were out of sight he stared at her, his hand reached up and pushed her hair out of her eyes. “Sage?” He asked softly.

She nodded, tears welled in her eyes. “Yeah, it’s me, Sage.” She forced a small smile.

“What are you doing here? How-Why..” His voice trailed off as he noticed her breakdown into tears. “Sage. Please don’t cry.”

She sniffed and wiped a tear that trailed down her cheek. “My parents were both arrested, for secret agency work, dangerous work.” She wiped another tear. “And the officers brought me here. I have no clue what happened to the rest of my family.”

Ashton growled something under his breath. “Carson planned it. He knew he could use you.”

“What?”

“Nothing..” Ashton’s eyes grew serious, along with his voice. “Sage, I’m working undercover here. Carson does some awful things. Another agency is trying to take him down, but so far everyone they’ve sent in has failed. I know why, so I need to be careful.”

“Like what?” She asked. “Why is it so dangerous?”

He glanced around him and lowered his voice. “Listen, Sage. Are you willing to help me out?” He asked.

“What do you mean?” She tilted her head at him. “I’m a prisoner here, not an undercover agent.”

“I mean, are you ready to let our childhood dream, of saving the world, come true?”

Carson threw a file down unto his desk, his face grew red with fury. “What do you mean we lost half the shipment?!?” He screamed at a soldier’s face. His teeth clenched and his eyes narrowed to little slits. “You get that shipment. NOW!”

“Sir, I was not in charge of the shipment.” The soldier’s face remained stoic. His eyes stared straight ahead as he spoke. “Ashton Hunningsworth was in charge, sir.”

Carson’s bottom lip twitched. “Get him in here. Now.”

“Yes, sir.” The guard exited the room and marched out.

Carson sat in his chair, he had questions about Ashton. He folded his hands on the desk and slowly breathed in and out, calming his fury. Ashton appeared at the door minutes later. “Sir?”

“Come in, come in.” Carson’s fury had subsided, his voice now holding a new calm.

Ashton stepped in, his hands folded in front of him. “Yes, sir?”

“You were in charge of a shipment that was supposed to arrive today, correct?” Carson grabbed a pen and twirled it in between his fingers.

“Sir, I was not in charge of the shipment.” He looked Carson in the eyes. “I was in charge of last month’s shipment, which did arrive.”

Carson stopped twirling the pen and stood. He walked over to Ashton and leaned close, his breath falling on Ashton’s face. “You get that shipment here, whether you were in charge or not.”

“Sir, I have no information on the shipment. Last I heard, Soldier Mays Garris was in charge.” Ashton replied, keeping a calm tone.

Carson backed away and sighed as he sat down. “You are dismissed.” He muttered.

“Thank you, sir.” Ashton edged towards the door then left quickly.

~*~

Sage sighed as she dug trudged through the muddy field pushing a wheelbarrow. Her arms ached and her hands were covered in dirt. She braced her feet and pushed through the thick mud, her feet slipped and she fell down, the wheelbarrow fell along with her. Rocks and sticks flew from the bucket part of the wheelbarrow and scattered everywhere. A male soldier marched up to her, a scowl masked on his face. “Get up!” He screeched at her. Sage stood but slipped in the mud and nearly fell, she regained her balance again.

The man’s face was red, his eyes were smoldering with anger. “You better clean this up, girl!” He kicked a a few sticks and sent them flying through the air before they landed with small splashs.

“Thanks for making my job harder.” She mumbled under her breath.

The man grabbed a fistful of her hair yanking it. “What did you say?”

Sage fought tears as pain rushed through her scalp. “I’ll be sure to clean it up, sir.” Her voice held a hint of sarcasm that she could not keep out.

The soldier harshly pulled her up to her feet. He released her and nudged her leg with his muddy boot. “Get to work.”

Sage bit her lip and gathered the load that had spread everywhere. “Oh, finally you’re here.” The soldier who was watching Sage spoke to another person. “You’re her primary guard, you watch her. She’s been nothing but trouble today.” A sloshing sound told her he was walking away.

“Sage?” A familiar voice hissed.

Sage whirled around, “Ashton!” She dropped her load into the wheelbarrow, a dull thunk sounded against the metal. “Fianlly, I thought I was going to be stuck with that guard forever.” She paused and looked at him.

His face turned into a meancing glower. “Get back to work before I send you to the main office!” He barked at her.

Sage dipped her head and hurried back to her scattered work. Soft sloshing footsteps sounded behind her. “Listen, I have to be extremely careful.” He whispered, his eyes glancing around franctically. “I’m going to be harsh with you, but it’s all part of...” He stopped, searching for a word. “It’s like acting.” He continued whispering. “I’m going to have to ask you to do something.”

Sage turned around, her eyes wide. She walked back to her wheelbarrow. “What?”

“Just-” Carson walked up to them. Ashton straightened his jacket and grabbed his baton, smacking it against his palm. “Get this done in five minutes!” He screeched at her.

“Ashton.” Carson stopped in front of him.

“Yes, sir?” Ashton glanced at Sage, as she hurried to finish.

Carson leaned over and whispered something to Ashton. Ashton’s face paled as he listened to what Carson said. “I want you to bring Sage in my office tonight.” He hissed. “I have a feeling she is going to be quite useful for my special projects.”

“Yes, sir.” Ashton gulped.

Carson stood back and watched as Sage grabbed the wheelbarrow’s handles and started pushing it through the mud again.

~*~

Later that evening...

Ashton grabbed Sage’s arm. “Come on.” He hissed through clenched teeth.

Sage stood and left the wet laundry in the basket. A female soldier rushed up to them. “STOP!” She screamed in their faces.

“Soldier Rosa, I have orders to take prisoner 203 to main quarters. Now if you’ll excuse us.” Ashton spoke like a programmed robot.

“Fine.” Rosa huffed, her eyes narrowed. “But she better finish her work. Or,” A smirk spread across her face. “She’ll have extra to do.”

Ashton tightened his grip on Sage’s arm. “Prisoner 202!” He barked. A young woman with blonde hair and large blue eyes stepped out from behind a shed. “Yes, sir?” Her small voice squeaked.

“You have laundry duty, correct?” He asked.

“Y-yes, sir.” The woman’s arms shook.

“Then finish.” He turned on his heel, pulling Sage with him.

When they were out of view, Ashton released Sage’s arm. They both stopped and he turned her to face him. His face was covered in concern and fear. “What’s wrong?” Sage asked.

“Listen, Carson is up to something.” He swallowed hard. “Whatever he asks you, you need to keep my cover safe. And..” He hestitated, his eyes held a hint of guilt.

“What?” Sage grabbed his arm. “Kea-Ashton, what is it?” When he didn’t reply she crossed her arms. “Please, just spit it out.”

“And, you need to go along.” He averted his blue eyes from her expectant green ones.

“Go along?” She asked as he started walking again, faster this time.

Ashton nodded. As they approached the building, his posture changed. “Soldier Ashton Hunningsworth reporting to Commander Carson’s office, sir.” His left hand rested on his belt that held a hand gun.

“Go on in.” The guard replied, not moving.

After they entered the building and the door shut behind them Ashton spoke. “Just-” He gulped and looked at Sage. “Whatever happens, please don’t hate me.” He whispered the words. Sage stared at him, she saw a familiar pained look in his eyes. The same look she saw years ago when they were children.

“Ashton..” Sage searched his face, hoping for an explanation but he didn’t offer one.

They reached the main office door and Ashton knocked. “Come in, come in.” A voice called.

Ashton pushed Sage ahead of him, sending her into the room first. “Prisoner 203 reporting to your office, like you requested, sir.” Ashton spoke.

“Very well done.” Carson folded his hands across the desk. “Sage Bennett, correct?” His piercing dark eyes stared straight at Sage.

She nodded. “Yes, sir.”

Carson nodded his approval. “Have a seat.” He motioned to a chair placed in front of his desk. “Ashton, shut the door and you also have a seat.”

Sage sat down, careful not to get overly comfortable in the cushioned chair. Ashton sat in a chair close to the door. “Now, you are probably wondering why I asked you to come to the main office.” Carson’s voice dripped with suspicion. He didn’t wait for her reply, instead he leaned closer to her. “I have special reasons for you being in this camp.”

Anger started to build in Sage’s chest and throat, she held back angry words that threatened to spill.

Carson’s eyes sparked as he stood and walked over to her chair. “You, my dear, hold vital information. Information that can help me..” He let his voice trail off. He placed a syringe filled with clear liquid on the desk in front of her. “Will you talk, or will I have to make you talk?”

Sage glanced at the syringe, then Carson. “I’ll talk.” She whispered, lowering her eyes.

“Fabulous.” Carson pulled a chair close to her and leaned over to look her in the eye. “First. Do you know this guard?” He whirled and pointed to Ashton, who sat like a statue. His jaw twitched slightly.

“No.” Sage blurted. Tears welled behind her eyes but she forced them back.

“Are you sure?” He demanded. “Think again. Do you know this man?”

She gulped and didn’t answer. Carson grabbed her hair and pulled her head up. “Look at him. Do. You. Recognize. Him.” His words came like ice, hard and harsh.

Ashton’s fists clenched in his lap as Sage grimaced in pain. “No!” She screamed at Carson.

Carson released her. “I have reason to believe you’re lying.”

Ashton interlocked his fingers. “She only met me when we got here, sir.”

“Quick to defend a girl, are you?” He smirked. “Gives me all the more reason to believe she’s lying.” He placed a hand on the desk next to the syringe. “Moving on... What do you know about this camp?”

Sage tilted her head at him. “Excuse me?”

Carson rolled his eyes and picked the syringe up. “Don’t play games with me.”

“I honestly know nothing, sir.” She gulped as he brought the syringe close to her face.

“I suppose, I have to make you talk.” He grabbed her arm and pulled it straight. He jabbed the needle into her arm and injected the clear liquid into her.

Sage glanced at Ashton, who’s face had grown pale. “What is this?” She asked Carson.

“Oh, just a drug to make you talk.” He slowly pulled the needle out from her arm. “And forget any answers you said.” He added.

Dizziness overtook Sage’s senses, she clenched her eyes closed as the room started swirling around her. “You should begin to feel the effects in a few moments, you’ll first feel dizzy, then drowsy, and then you will have complete memory loss of this whole interrogation.”

Sage opened her eyes and looked straight ahead, she forced herself to stay alert, but the dizziness overwhelmed her. She pushed back her chair and stood, holding onto the desk to keep from falling.

“Sit back down!” Carson commanded her.

“No.” Sage shook her head as a drowsy feeling overcame her. She took a step away from the chair and tried to walk to the door. Her knees buckled before she reached the door and Ashton caught her before she could fall. “Please..” Her eyes begged him.

Ashton held her up and guided her to the chair. “I’m sorry.” He whispered into her hair. He discreetly jabbed something into her arm, something to reverse the other drug’s effects. Sage grew drowsy, she tried to move but couldn’t. Then, everything around her faded into darkness.

*Author's note:*

Sorry I never kept up with posting this! Life happened, time got away, writer's block hit, etc etc. I'm now revising chapters I wrote, and posting them. I will write more and continue to post them as time allows. Sorry again for such a gap in time from when I started to posting again now.

Thank you for reading it, and I hope you enjoy!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Chapter 3:

Ashton watched as Sage laid unconscious on a cot. He walked around the cot to where her head was, grabbed a chair and sat down next to her cot. Ashton sighed deeply and ran a hand through his brown hair. Sage looked so calm, yet he had seen the scared, pained look in her eyes. He saw the hurt and betrayal in her face. Guilt rushed through him; Carson had demanded to know who her parents were. Ashton, being her charge, knew. Reluctantly, he had told Carson, now Sage’s past was revealed; Carson labeled her as a trouble maker. Yet, he told Ashton he would give Sage a chance to prove herself, if she seemed obedient, he would not do anything to her.

Sage murmured softly, her eyelids fluttered slightly as she started to wake up. Her eyes snapped open, she sat up abruptly and started scooting away from Ashton. Her eyes were filled with confusion and fear; she fell off the cot onto the concrete flooring.

“Sage, it’s me!” Ashton moved towards her and grabbed her hand to help her up.

She pulled away. “You-you betrayed me.” Her whisper was hoarse.

Ashton reached out towards her again, “No, I didn’t.” He looked at her eyes, they had a glassy, faraway look. “Sage?” He asked, in a soft voice.

She looked up at him, “Wh-“ Her eyes suddenly cleared from their glassy look. She took in her surroundings and suddenly burst into tears. She suddenly remembered where she was and wiped her tears.

Ashton knelt next to her. “Hey, it’s ok.” He whispered. He grabbed her hand gently and looked into her eyes. “It’ll be fine.”

Sage sniffed and wiped another tear trailing down her face. “What happened?” She asked.

“Carson interrogated you, and you passed.” He forced a small smile.

“He-he injected something into me.” She stared hard at him. Her brow furrowing slightly, “And then.. you-you injected something into me.” She whispered.

“It was to help you. If I didn’t then…” His voice trailed off.

Sage slowly stood, her legs wobbled slightly. Ashton grabbed her arm to steady her. The door swung open and Carson strode in. “Ah! She’s awake.” He looked at her. Ashton quickly removed his hand from her arm and stood straight.

“Yes, sir, she is.” He replied.

“Good.” Carson motioned for Ashton to leave. “Now, if you’d please, let us chat a bit.” He ordered.

Ashton nodded but didn’t say anything. He quietly left the room. Carson stood in front of Sage. “Well, young lady.” He started. “You’re a secret agent, are you?” His dark eyes glowered at her.

“What?” Sage crossed her arms. “I am not.”

“Oh, right.” Carson tapped her elbow with his finger causing her to flinch. “Your parents were the secret agents.”

“How-“ She stammered.

“How do I know?” He chuckled. “I have informers. I know all about your past, Sage Bennett.” He leaned close to her, his breath falling on her face. “I know everything about you and your family.” Carson stood straight again.

Sage held back the anger building up inside of her. This man was evil, now he would drain information from her. She didn’t say a word, but lowered her head.

“And you, my dear,” Carson tipped her chin up with his fingers. “Can tell me much more information.” He forced her to make eye contact with him. Lowering his hand, he turned on his heel towards the door. His boots made heavy clunks on the floor as he walked. Carson’s hand rested on the doorknob, before opening the door, he turned back to Sage. “We will chat more later, Sage.” He opened and shut the door with a firm click.

Ashton walked in moments later. Sage was sitting on the cot, her cheeks were pink. She looked up at Ashton, her lips parted slightly, then she closed them shut, staying silent. “What?” Ashton asked.

She brought her eyes to meet his, “You told him everything, didn’t you?” Her voice came out in a whisper.

Ashton stood in front of her, “I did.” He replied softly. “But you have to understand-“ He started but Sage cut him off.

“How could you?” She demanded, pain streaking her voice. “You know what kind of danger you put my whole family and the rest of the agency into? Why?” Tears filled her eyes. “I lost my family, my parents, my life, and now you might have just endangered them and signed their death warrant, along with mine.” She stared at him.

Ashton knelt in front of her, to view her better. “Sage, you have to understand, I didn’t have a choice but to tell him.” He drew in a deep breath and continued on. “If I didn’t tell him, it would have gone badly for both you and me. He already knew everything. I had been order to confirm it.”

Sage ran a hand through her messy hair. “If he knew, why would you have to tell him anything?” She asked him.

Ashton slowly stood. “As confirmation. Assurance. Making sure the information was not misheard.” He turned on his heel towards the door. “Now, you have to get back to your job, and I have to get back to mine.”

~*~

A woman, probably in her mid thirties, sat in a jail cell. She sat on a stringy, dirty mattress. Her head throbbed, dirt streaks were on her hands and cheeks, and her hair was pulled back in a messy braid.. “Kinsley Bennett!” A guard by the jail bars barked.

She slowly stood, grimacing as pain pricked her legs and body. Kinsley slowly brought herself to the bars. “Yes, sir.” She croaked.

“We have orders to take you back for questioning.” He opened the door and swung it open. “Move along!” He hurried her.

Kinsley hurried out the door, her mind swam with questions. The chief of the prison was demanding information about the agency she worked in. Each time, she refused to share anything. The guards tortured her, trying to pry the information out. They left her with no food or water for a day, worked her endlessly, and questioned her tirelessly. However, they never laid a hand on her body. The guards didn’t dare touch or harm her.

A door opened to a small office. A light waved, adding an eerie glow to the room. A desk sat in the middle of the room, papers strewn in different places, pens scattered on the desk, and a pair of black, hard boots sat on top of the desk. Kinsley followed the boots to the chief’s body. He sat in a chair, his arms crossed. “Hello, Kinsley.” He greeted her with a sneer. His feet fell from the desk and landed on the hard floor with a thud. “Have a seat.” He motioned to the chair across from him. His dark blue eyes glinted.

She sat down in the plush chair, careful not to make herself comfortable. She stared at her folded hands in her lap.

“You likely know why I called you back.” He picked up a pen and twirled it between his fingers.

“Yes, sir.” She whispered.

“Well, this time it’s not just for questioning.” His chair creaked as he leaned back for a moment. “I have other matters to discuss.” Maverick slid a picture across the desk and pointed at it with a finger. “I’m sure you recognize this young girl.”

Kinsley leaned over and studied the picture. Her breath caught in her throat, it was her daughter — Sage! Her green eyes were dull and tired, yet a small smile tugged at her lips in the picture. Kinsley nodded slowly. “I do know her — she’s my daughter.”

“Oh yes, I know.” Maverick pulled the picture away and stuffed it into a drawer. “I also know where she is — at a prisoner camp. Not only do I know where she is, I know the commanding officer of that camp.” He twirled the pen again. “Carson and I are actually good friends.” His piercing blue eyes stared at Kinsley. “You get what I am saying?”

She looked at him, confusion clouding her face. “No, sir…” A strand of her brown hair fell over her eyes, she blew it away.

He chuckled and pulled a paper out and placed it on his desk. “Well, you see, we can make things difficult for little Sage at the camp. If you don’t cooperate here,” his teeth flashed at her, “I can contact Carson, and we can change things up for the girl.” He leaned over to Kinsley across the desk, his breath fell on her face. “Either you cooperate or you cause your daughter’s pain.”

Kinsley stared at this man. How could he be so evil? He had no heart inside of him. She lowered her eyes. “I will never betray the agency.”

Maverick laughed and leaned back again. “Oh, Kinsley, Kinsley!” His voice grew deadly. “We are not asking you to betray them; we are asking you to tell us about them. There’s a difference.” His hand poised over a phone that laid on his desk. “You refuse to talk, I make the calls, Sage gets the consequences. You do talk, I won’t make the calls, and we all live happily.” He tapped his fingers on the desk.

She lowered her blue-green eyes. “Can I have some time to decide?” She asked.

Maverick stopped tapping his fingers and folded his hands together. “Fine.” He stood and rounded the desk to where Kinsley sat. “You have two hours.”

She stood and moved to the door, her heart now racing. “Yes, sir.” She slipped out the door and back to her cell. She was left with a hard decision, her head throbbed harder and tears pricked the back of her eyes.

As she sat on the cot, her tears started to spill. An image of Sage flashed to her mind, “Please don’t hate me.” She rocked herself back and forth, trying to maintain her tormenting thoughts and come up with a final decision.

~*~

2 hours later..

Maverick sat in his office, a smirk spread across his lips. He fingered the telephone on his desk. Finally, he picked it up and dialed a number. After several rings, a male voice growled through the line.

“Hello, Carson speaking.”

“It’s Maverick.” He replied, leaning back in his chair.

“Did she spill it?” Carson asked.

“No. I gave her a choice.” He pulled a paper close to him. “But, I think you know what it will come to.”

A low laugh rumbled through the phone. “Oh, yes.” His voice grew serious again. “Also, I have a soldier I believe is a spy. Yet, he has proven time and again that he isn’t.”

“Well, if he’s proven to be a worthy soldier, stop questioning him.” Maverick spat. “Besides, if he turns to be a rebel, you can always…” His voice stopped. “Wait, I must go, Kinsley is coming back. I think her decision is made.” A chuckle sounded.

“Fine, fine.” Carson replied. “Let me know the final decision.”

“Will do.” Maverick hung up the phone. “Come in!” He called to the door.

Kinsley walked in quietly. “So, you’ve made your decision?” Maverick asked.

She raised her head and glared at him. “I will never tell you anything about the agency and the work I did.”

Maverick leaned on the desk. “So, you prefer that your daughter suffer, then tell me about your agency?” A humored look masked on his face.

Chapter 4:

Sage wiped rainwater from her face with her hand. The rain came harder as she stacked loads and loads of wood. Her skirt and blouse became drenched, sticking to her thin frame.

Another woman stood outside near her, equally soaked. “Prisoner 203!” A male voice barked. Sage straightened and peered though the sheets of rain coming down. A male officer marched up to her.

“Yes, sir?” She pushed her wet hair away from her face.

The man stood erect in front of her. “Your work is done here. Move on to raking the garden rows.”

“In the mud?” She asked wearily.

The guard’s eyes glowered at her and he raised his hand in front of her face. “You dare question my orders?”

Sage flinched. “I apologize, sir.” She whispered.

“You better be sorry.” He lowered his hand and marched close to her. He looked her in the eye. “You watch what you say and how you say it here.” His voice warned. “Now, get to work!”

Sage hurried away, rain pouring all around her. She walked through the thick, gooey mud and made her way to the gardening rows. When she arrived a rake sat in the mud, dirty and wet. She picked it up and slowly raked through the muddy rows.

Finally, after about twenty minutes, Sage finished. The rain had slowed to a light drizzle and the sun peeked out from behind the dark clouds. Ashton had started walking her direction, his hood shielded his face from the sprinkling rain.

“Sage,” he called softly.

Sage walked over, her clothes were still wet from the earlier downpour. “Ashton,” her voice cracked. “I’ve been working nonstop, and I’m exhausted.” She whispered.

“I know.” His eyes softened. “Listen, I have news.” He glanced around and grabbed her arm, leading her away.

“What news?” Her eyes brightened for a moment. “You connected with my family? I can get out of here?”

Ashton glanced at a soldier passing by, and masked a scowl onto his face. His hand raised in front of Sage’s face and she flinched. The other soldier passed by and Ashton dropped his hand. “I’m sorry.” He whispered.

“It’s okay.” Tears clouded Sage’s vision. “What was the news?” Her heart raced.

“Maverick sent word for you.” He searched her eyes. “You’re going to be transferred for about two days.” Ashton touched her arm. “You’re going to see your mother.”

Sage’s eyes grew wide. “M-my mother?”

“Yes.” He glanced around. “But listen; there is a plot behind it. I don’t know what it is.. yet.” His eyes grew serious. “Please, be careful Sage.”

Sage nodded. “I will.” Her wet hair blew into her eyes. “Ashton.. thank you.” She whispered.

He nodded and turned away, sorrow tugged at his heart.“I gotta go.”

“Okay. I’ll see you.” Sage turned and slogged through the wet grass. She had seen the tortured look on Ashton’s face.

Ashton turned and headed back to the main building. He walked up to the gate. “Well, well. Seems we have another traitor on our hands.” A sickening laugh erupted behind him.

He whirled around and looked at one of the soldiers, “Cole!” He hissed and grabbed the man’s shirt collar in his hand. “You won’t speak a word about this; you hear me?” He growled.

“Why?” Cole smirked. “Don’t want to get in trouble?”

Ashton groaned inwardly. “Cole, don’t you dare speak a word.” His voice grew threatening. “Or I’ll spill some of your secrets.”

His face turned pale. “Fine, fine!” He threw his hands up. “I never saw you and the prisoner.” He smarted and took off.

Ashton breathed a sigh of relief. He had to be more careful; one wrong move and he was doomed. He watched as Cole walked away, a swagger marking his step. Ashton shook his head slowly and went inside.

~*~

Sage sat on her cot, her bare feet sat on the concrete ground. An image of her mother flashed to her mind. Tears flooded Sage’s eyes as she thought of her family. A soldier’s footsteps were heard marching nearby. “Prisoner 203!” A gruff voice barked.

Jumping to her feet she wiped her eyes with a dirty sleeve. She stepped outside and faced a male officer. His blonde hair was neatly smoothed under his cap and his sharp blue eyes studied her. “Yes, sir.” She replied meekly.

“I have orders to transfer you.” He barked in her face. “Get moving!” He turned and motioned for her to get in front.

She walked at a steady pace, reaching a shining black car. A gun pressed against her back as they got close to the car. “I saw you talking.” The man smirked. “You should know better, girl.”

Sage gulped, her heart raced. “I was discussing my orders with my charge.” She spoke in a steady voice. “It was simply guard to prisoner.” She slowly turned, the barrel shifted to pointing at her chest. Her hands raised in defense. “I’m simply a prisoner at the camp.”

Cole laughed and cocked the gun, making it click. “People like you are trouble.” A sickening laugh erupted from his throat. “Nothing but trouble; you and Ashton both.”

Sage gulped. “I promise you, nothing happened.” She looked him in the eye, pleading. “Please, don’t do something you’ll regret.” She whispered.

Cole smirked and de-cocked his gun, holstering it. “I’d never shoot a prisoner without orders.” He shoved her in the back with his hand. “Get in. You’re being transferred for the next few days.” A mock tone took over his voice. “Though I’m sure your boyfriend already told you.”

Sage bit back a reply and slid into the car. Cole sat in the driver seat and pulled out of the camp. After a long bumpy ride, they pulled onto a gated road. Rolling down his window, he talked to the guard at the gate. “Reporting Prisoner 203; Sage Bennett in for transfer.” He barked.

“Head down to the end, park by the prison, and Maverick will be waiting inside. Another guard will be there to escort her.” He replied, shifting his weapon. “Move on!”

Cole pulled forward as instructed and parked down by the prison. A tall, bulky guard walked up to the car and opened her door. “Sage Bennett?” He peeked into the car and looked at her.

“Yes, sir.” She replied.

“Get out.” He moved. “Come on.” He towered over Sage, like a giant, as she walked in front of him.

The door to the building opened and Sage heard a car pull away. She assumed it was Cole who was driving off. The guard walked her down a hall. Enclosed jail cells stood on either side of her. A light bulb dimly lit each cell, and Sage could see prisoners inside.

They stopped at a door and the guard nudged her leg with his boot. “Go in.” He growled under his breath.

Sage opened the door and slipped inside the room. A light dangled from the ceiling giving an eerie glow. A man sat behind a desk, his shiny black boots on top of it. “Sage, I presume?” He smirked.

“Yes, sir.” She whispered. Her heart thumped loudly as she heard the guard shuffling outside the door. She had never been alone in a room with a chief.

His feet slid down from the desk. “Have a seat.” He waved his hand toward the chair across from him. Sage hesitated, Maverick tapped his foot impatiently. “Well, have a sit, Miss Bennett.” He coaxed.

Sage slowly lowered her body into the cushioned chair. Her eyes darted nervously around the room and landed on Maverick’s icy cold stare. His teeth flashed at her, sending a tingle through her spine.

“You’re probably wondering why you’re here.” He leaned closer to her. A pause. “Aren’t you?”

Sage nodded, unable to speak. Her hands sat folded in her lap and she took in quiet, shallow breaths.

Maverick pressed a button on his desk, a buzz sounded and moments later the door to his office opened. A guard shoved a middle aged woman into the room. Her hair was a mess and her blue-green eyes had circles under them. “M-Mama?” Sage squeaked.

Kinsley’s eyes widened and tears gathered in the corners of her eyes. “Sage?” She slowly walked forward.

She now stood and walked into her mother’s embrace. Kinsley wrapped her arms around her daughter, a few tears fell to her hair. “Oh, my dear daughter!” She whispered.

Sage allowed herself to melt in her mother’s embrace. “Ahem.” Maverick interrupted. “Sorry to interrupt your reunion.” He snapped a finger and nodded at the guard. “But we have business to take care of.” Sarcasm laced his voice.

The guard grabbed Sage’s shoulders and pulled her back. She struggled against his iron grip and wiggled. He hissed, “Sit still, girl!” A holster on his hip dug into Sage’s waist as he held her tightly.

“Let her go.” Kinsley spoke firmly.

Maverick laughed again. “Only after I get what I want.” His hands rubbed briskly together and his eyes glimmered. “Which may take some persuading, it seems.” He gave a subtle nod to the guard holding Sage, who then yanked out a gun from his holster and pressed it against her back.

Sage squirmed, but the gun barrel dug into her back. “Sit still!” The guard hissed angrily.

Maverick laughed and waved his hand at the guard, “You can put away the gun, Harlen.”

The guard re-holstered his gun, the handle once again pushed its blunt end into Sage’s waist. Kinsley glared at Maverick. “What will you do if I don’t tell you anything?”

A sickening laugh erupted from him again, “Wouldn’t you like to know?” The guard holding Sage switched to wrapping an arm around her throat. The crook of his arm tightened around her throat, choking her. She gagged and coughed, struggling.

“Don’t hurt her!” Her mother screeched, lunging towards the guard.

Maverick yanked Kinsley back, forcing her to stand still. “She won’t get hurt, if you cooperate!” She glared angrily at the guard and rubbed her arm.

“Mama, don’t tell them.” Sage called out, tears streamed down her face. The guard holding her jerked her straight, pinning her against his muscular chest.

“Shut up!” He yanked out his knife and whipped the edge of the blade to her neck.

“Harlen,” Maverick crooned. “Put the knife away, no need for it now.” The guard hesitated, hate contorted his face. “Harlen. The knife. Away. Now.” Maverick spoke with more force.

Harlen obeyed and slipped the knife into the holster on his belt. Sage breathed a sigh of relief but it was quickly swept away when the guard’s breath fell on her neck. "You won't get away that easily, girl." His hiss sent shivers down her spine.

Chapter 5:

Ashton marched to Carson’s office. Heart racing, worries flooded through his mind. Cole stood against a wall in the main building. His arms were crossed against his chest and a smirk was plastered onto his face.

His eyes fell on Ashton and they locked with one another for a moment. Cole smirked again. “Good luck,” a sinister laugh came with his next words, “You’ll need it.”

Ashton tugged against the collar of his coat. The fabric rubbed against his throat, adding to his nerves. “Come in, Ashton.” Carson called, his hands splayed on the desk.

“Good afternoon, sir.” Ashton stepped in.

Carson looked up at the young man. His dark eyes flashed angrily at Ashton, sending a warning. “I’ve heard rumors.”

“Rumors, sir?” Ashton masked a look of innocence onto his face. Yet, a feeling of dread wrapped its fingers around his heart.

“Yes, rumors.” Carson growled. “I’m in no mood for games. Did you, or did you not speak with Sage Bennett before her transport?” His fingers rapped impatiently against the desk.

Ashton gulped. He didn’t answer.

“Ashton.” Carson stood and rounded the desk to face him. “Answer the question.”

“I did, sir.” He bit his tongue and held back slashing words.

“Why?” Carson’s hand instinctively laid on his gun’s handle in the holster. The holster hung from his belt, the handle of the gun rested just above his hip.

“I needed to have a word with her about her work.” He spat out.

“You’re lying, Ashton.” Carson flashed a small smile. A mockingly sweet tone peppered his voice, “You know what I think of lying.”

Ashton gulped, his face started to pale. “Sir, I-“

Carson narrowed his eyes and pulled the gun from his holster speedily. “The truth, Ashton. Or you can choose a slow, painful punishment.” He aimed the gun at Ashton’s shoulder.

Ashton instinctively whipped out his gun, pointing it at the chief. Carson cocked the gun, his voice was deadly. “Ashton, put the gun away. And tell the truth.” A snarl twisted his face. “Now.”

Ashton aimed the gun at Carson, his hands shook as he cocked it and placed his finger onto the trigger. “Put the gun away.” He hissed, “Tell me the truth.”

Carson’s aim held steady at Ashton’s right shoulder, Ashton slowly lowered his gun and pointed it to the floor. His muscles were tense, ready to spring it up again. “I told you. I was talking to her about her work orders. I informed her she would be transferred for a couple days.” His heart raced.

“That’s not what Cole told me.” Carson growled, taking a step up to Ashton. “He said you and Miss Sage Bennett were making escape plans. You were scheming to kill me, take down each of my soldiers one by one, and take over the camp.” His eyes flashed. “Then, you could free everyone.”

Ashton started to raise his gun, but thought better of it. “I assure you, I had no such contact with Sage about that.” His jaw tightened. “We talked strictly about work orders.” Ashton steeled his glare and looked Carson in the eyes, “We both know Cole has a reputation for creating and spreading rumors, sir.”

Carson laughed and lowered his gun for a moment. “You are right about that.” He de-cocked the gun, as did Ashton, and they both re-holstered them. “I want to speak with Cole.” Anger spiced his voice. “Where is he?”

“He was outside when I came here, sir.” Ashton straightened.

Carson twisted the door open, “Garris! Get Cole in here. Now.” He shut the door again and looked at Ashton, “You may stay here. I need a witness to Cole’s words.”

Cole marched into the office moments later. His green eyes darted around and landed on Ashton. He scowled before shutting the door. “Reporting to your office, sir.” He growled.

“Cole, Cole.” Carson clucked pitifully. His boots clicked against the floor and he stopped across from the now shaking young man. “You know what I think of rumors being spread.”

A bead of perspiration dripped down Cole’s cheek. His face reddened and his hand sat on his gun holster. “I-I don’t know what yo-you mean s-sir.” He stammered nervously.

Studying his nails for a moment he spoke, “You know exactly what I mean. You set a bad reputation for sharing rumors and lies, it gets you into trouble.” His eyes flashed maliciously. Carson’s hand pulled out his gun and lightening speed and aimed it at the young man..

“Sir, please.” Cole pleaded. He didn’t pull out his gun, he knew he wouldn’t be able to shoot faster than Carson.

Carson cocked the gun. “I gave you a chance. You blew it. I gave you a second chance, you also blew it. They say third times a charm, but you’ve shown it’s not.” His finger twitched on the trigger. “Three strikes –– you’re out.” He growled.

Cole blabbered, sweat started to dampen his hairline. “Please, ju-just give me one more chance,” He begged. “Please I promise I'll be better-“

Carson growled under his breath and re-holstered his gun again. “Get out of here.” He waved his hand. “If I hear you spread rumors such as this again, I will be sure you never set foot on this camp again, or any other.”

~*~

“Obviously, having your daughter here isn’t much use, is it?” Maverick snarled. “Take her back to the camp.” He hissed. “I have no more need of her here. It’s no use.”

The guard smirked and dragged Sage out of the door. “Sir-“ Maverick interrupted him with a nod and a flash of the eyes. The guard’s smirk grew larger.

Sage followed, cringing in pain. He stopped her outside and pushed her against a wall. His eyes glimmered at her. “So, you’re a trouble-maker, huh?”

Sage gulped as he leaned close to her face and blocked her from moving away. “Looks like you need-“

“Harlen!” A male voice chuckled from the shadows. “You’re taking orders all by yourself?”

Harlen scowled and turned around. “Oh shut up.” His body shifted and he turned to face the man.

Sage snuck away from the wall then started running. Her feet flew and she ran out of the prison. “We have an escapee!” Screams sounded from guards all around.

Harlen pulled out his gun and a bullet whizzed past Sage’s head. Her feet flew faster. She ran outside of the prison. Guards pulled out their guns and started aiming at her feet or arms. They didn’t dare kill her.

Sage looked behind her and suddenly bumped into a strong muscular body. Steel like arms wrapped around her waist and stomach. “Settle down.” A voice hissed. Sage panted and twisted again in the man’s grip.

Harlen marched up to her a growl spiced his voice. “Trying to escape?” He cupped her chin and tilted her head up to look him in the eyes. Defiant eyes glared back at him. “We’ll see what Maverick has to say about that.” He pulled out a walkie talkie device and radioed his boss.

“We have an escapee –– the girl.” He announced to Maverick.

A voice came back staticky and annoyed. “This isn’t her prison, you take her to Carson and he deals with her.” A beep sounded.

Harlen scoffed. “Get in.” He pushed Sage into a car. She slid across the seat, trembling as the burly guard scooted in next to her.

In moments they arrived to the other prison yard gates. They were let in and Harlen harshly marched Sage to the main office. Ashton stood outside the office. “Is Carson in?” He asked while gripping Sage’s shoulder.

Ashton glanced at Sage’s face, while she was stern and stoic, he saw determination in her eyes. “Yes, sir. What seems to be the problem?”

Harlen glowered. “I took her to Maverick and she is charged with attempted escape from the prison as I was ready to transport her. Maverick dismissed her and I started to grab her but she ran-“

The office door swung open and Carson marched out. “Sage..” He crooned. “Lovely of you to make an appearance.” He motioned for them all to enter.

Ashton strode in, Sage walked in front of Harlen. His grip sent aches of pain up and down her arm. “What’s the problem, Harlen?” Carson took a seat at his desk and whirled a pen between his fingers. His dark eyes flashed and landed on Sage’s straight figure for a moment before turning to the guard.

The man relayed the events from moments earlier. Carson nodded and dismissed Harlen. “Thank you.” He waved him away.

Ashton stared at Carson before speaking. “What’s your plan sir?” He asked gruffly.

Carson chuckled and stood from his desk, coming around to Sage. She brought her eyes to meet his for a moment then quickly averted them. He saw the determination in her eyes. Yet he sensed a hint of fear in her. “She needs to learn.” He grunted as he grabbed her chin and tilted her head up.

“Learn what?” Sage spat the words in Carson’s face. “How to work like an animal? How to be exhausted, and be tortured? How to be a slave to all you ugly, disgusting people?” Her eyes were defiant, fearless. “Learn how to be a human robot, obeying your every command?”

Carson gasped, sarcasm laced his voice. “Sage! My dear, you don’t understand.” He walked around her and talked, his boots clumping with every step. “This camp was set up to keep the world a better place. Secrets don’t help anyone. Ever. They’re dangerous. The world is a dangerous place.”

Sage’s eyes followed his every move, bracing for what might come next. “We’re merely trying to sort out the secrets. Lying never helped you get through life, did it? It only made it worse. The time you lied about stealing a cookie, and then later felt guilty. Or maybe a time you lied to yourself.” A pause. “Tsk-tsk.” He clucked, “You must learn, things work differently here. You work, we earn. You talk, we learn.” His eyes stared into hers for a moment. “You hide secrets, we find them out."

Ashton watched, trying to maintain his composure. He saw what Carson was doing –– trying to brainwash her, make her see things his way. It scared him more than the other horrors he witnessed. Carson glanced at the young man. “Take her back. She’s still new.” His dark eyes locked onto hers. “Still adjusting.”

Sage suppressed a sneer at the chief and turned to Ashton. He opened the door and shoved her out it, then pushed her to get outside. Once they were clear of any eavesdroppers and other guards, Ashton grabbed her shoulder. He turned her around to face him. “Are you insane?” He almost screamed in her face.

She didn’t flinch. “I can’t let him win. I won’t back down.” Her bright green eyes grew more defiant and fearless. “He took my life away, he took my family away.” She whispered harshly. “If you want to let him win, then fine. Be my guest. But I’m not backing down.” Her back turned away from him. “I’m done being afraid. I’m done being an oh-so-obedient-slave. I’ve made up my mind.”

Ashton blew a frustrated sigh and ran a hand through his slicked back hair. “Listen, I know you want to fight back. But this isn’t the way to do it. He could kill you!” He grabbed her arm but she shook it away. “We have to play it safe, please. I know how Carson works, and what he’s capable of. Please, just listen to me!”

She started marching ahead of him, her stubbornness and defiance clear. “You do your job, and I’ll do mine.” Her voice hissed at him.

He walked behind her, frustration building up inside. Why was she so hard headed? So stubborn! As long as he could remember she’d always had a fiery temper. While she tended to be meek at first, her temper soon revealed itself. The stubbornness always showed through. He knew Sage, and was afraid of what she might do. Yet, he feared more so of what Carson could do to her.