Shadows of Our Pasts

Chapter 3 - Prove it

"The Godless Shadows will keep you safe now."

For a moment I stood, my hand still outstretched as they stared back at me with empty faces, processing what I'd said. When they finally started to register my words, shocked expressions stared back at me before the man in the back, who hadn't yet spoken, decided to step forward.

"Wait...what?" Okay nevermind, they still don't get it. 

I smiled and let out a huff of amusement, dropping my hand back to my side. "Okay, let me explain since you guys don't seem to be understanding this. I am a member of The Godless Shadows survival group, and I have a place to stay and supplies including food and water. I can tell you four are good people with good intentions, and that's what we look for in possible recruits, so I wanted to extend a welcome to you all if you'd like. Of course, I'm not saying you have to join, but either way, you look like you could use some shelter and supplies for a few days at least until you're ready to head back out there and protect yourselves. For now, if you accept, you will be under our protection until you're ready to leave. Please, take a moment to decide but I do suggest we get moving soon so that we can get to my house before nightfall."

It took a few more moments, but the masked man nodded slowly, turning to the others, only to find them already looking at him with excitement on their faces.

"We've been looking for-" Jund started speaking quickly, clearly happy, but the leader cut him off. 

"Wait! How do we know we can trust you? I mean, we really do appreciate all of the help just now but how do we know you are who you say you are?"

I smirked and rose an eyebrow. "Well, how do you propose I prove that I truly am a member?" I asked, tilting my head to the side slightly. 

The four turned to each other again, murmuring ideas to each other before Jund suddenly jumped up and shouted "that's it!" and they turned to me again. I chuckled a little at his actions, which caused him to be flustered and embarrassed, but he motioned for the leader to tell me his idea. 

The masked man took a step towards me as he spoke, "Anyone who's heard of The Godless Shadows knows they have matching tattoos that represent their membership, a combination of three symbols. A bird, two arrows crossing each other, and an anchor. We also heard a rumor that the real members have walkie-talkies with them to communicate with each other. To prove you are who you say you are, can you show us those things."

I grinned, impressed as I nodded my head at their request. "You guys are clever, good job remembering all of that. I didn't think anyone who wasn't a member knew about the tatts and walkies." As I spoke, I pulled up the right sleeve of my under armor shirt to reveal the three tatts they mentioned. I pointed to each one in turn as I explained them. "This bird represents that even in this messed up world, we have the freedom we need to accomplish great things, just as a bird is free whenever they are flying. Then, this anchor is actually upside-down to represent our refusal to sink, no matter what challenges may lie ahead. Finally, these two arrows signify rebellion and our will to fight against the things which plague our world with darkness." I pulled my sleeve back down before continuing, "I must say though, the two arrows are a popular choice, but some members choose daggers, swords, or even guns. As long as they are two weapons that form an x, it counts as the third and final tattoo. Now, for the walkie-" I pulled the walkie out but was interrupted by the curiosity of the group.

"Wait, just wondering, why are the arrows the most popular choice, if you don't mind me asking? Wouldn't swords or daggers be more stereotypical?" The man with medium-length brown hair and glasses asked. I really need to ask for their names after this...

"Oh, most members choose the arrows over other weapons because our leader and founder has the arrows. Some of the other high-ranking officers chose different weapons, but since a lot of the members look up to or respect the leader, they want to show their dedication and get the tattoo of the weapon our leader chose," I explained.