Heathen Chronicles - Changed

Chapter 15 - The Last Two Standing

Raven's POV

I stood in line next to the others who had joined the program; my "hell-mates," as we now called ourselves. Over the past couple of days, I had gotten to know them a little better, though I spoke mostly to Kyle; the others still kept themselves on a pedestal. The training had been intense, and we all struggled to remain upright. Today, our bodies were starting to turn on us, shaking uncontrollably and painfully. We were showing physical progress, but we definitely felt the aftereffects.

This was our last day in the terrain, and we were beyond grateful to leave. We focused on our breathing, as it was the only thing that helped diffuse the pain, though it did little to lessen our excitement. The Captain stood in front of us, critically studying the line. His eyes always paused momentarily on me before moving to the others, careful not to suggest anything. I had noticed it since we landed, but I was only sure of it now—probably because I was becoming a bit more outspoken as we leveled up.

I could feel the hatred radiating off those standing next to me. They didn't agree with the Captain's or the RHW's methods, but there wasn't much we could do. I stared at the Right-Hand-Witch, who glared at me daily for no known reason. I had no idea what I'd done wrong, but I suspected she despised my growing confidence and the verbal comebacks I offered when she really pissed me off.

"You all did better these last couple of days. Well done..."

There was a collective sigh of relief.

"We will be heading for the Base Centre tomorrow at zero-eight-hundred hours, so you have the rest of today to yourselves. No emailing, but if I were you, I'd take a relaxing swim. It might be the last chance you get." He walked off toward his tent, already typing on his phone.

Asshole!

We were dismissed a minute later. Back in the tents, we packed what few belongings we were allowed to keep. We were even given our own swimwear from our personal bags. We walked to the lake, sticking close together just in case this was another test. Once we confirmed it wasn't, we dispersed into smaller groups.

I stood at the water's edge and watched the others. The soldiers stood guard, making sure no drama happened like last time. They took no interest in me, keeping their eyes on Irina, who was wearing something skanky as usual. I stretched my tired muscles and dove into the refreshing water. It felt amazing to be free.

I emerged and floated back, resting on the bank. Irina lay on the sand, looking like she was about to turn into a dried-up tomato. Dylann and El were half in the water, trying to see how deep they could swim on one breath—idiots. Kyle and Lu sat nearby in deep discussion. Everyone knew Lu loved to eavesdrop and spin stories into lies; she'd be a billionaire if that were a professional job. Kyle looked interested in her gossip, but his mind seemed elsewhere. He glanced at me, and I looked away quickly. I could practically feel his smirk.

Under the shade of a nearby tree, the Captain and the RHW relaxed with drinks and a silver laptop. I turned back to the soldiers and caught a few of them glancing at Irina's hot-red bikini, which could have easily fit an eight-year-old. Ew.

I pushed myself onto the sandbank to relax. As I sat up to brush the sand off my legs, I met brimming blue eyes. The Captain was staring straight at me with an eager smile. I smiled back and "zapped" him before laying back down. His laughter echoed through the trees—seductive, mysterious, and carrying a hint of hidden sadness.

The atmosphere on the jet felt different this time—more organized and excited. The Captain and RHW sat in front, she busy with a tablet and he reading a thick, old book. I chose a seat at the back to avoid the Captain's blue eyes and Kyle's annoying ones. I hooked in my earphones and let my thoughts run wild.