It's the End of the World as We Know it (Silent Moments Series: Book 4)

Chapter 31

 The urgency in Raven's voice was unmistakable as she outlined our new plan. Bellamy's concerns about the impracticality of reaching Polis were swiftly addressed by Raven's innovative idea of using the satellite tower. Her quick thinking and assertive leadership galvanized us into action. She began assigning tasks with a sense of urgency that left no room for hesitation. "You three, back to the cockpit; you two, helmets on, you're with me," she instructed, her tone leaving no doubt about the seriousness of our situation. Her abrupt command to resume the launch sequence added a layer of tension to the already fraught atmosphere.

As we suited up, Raven's focus was laser-sharp, her mind racing with the logistics of our critical task. Stepping outside, the world looked desolate, covered in a thick layer of ash, a stark reminder of the apocalyptic reality we faced. The satellite tower, standing less than a mile away, was our only hope of making contact with the Ark. Raven quickly explained the specifics of aligning the satellite dish. She handed me an electrical component, detailing the procedure with precision. Every step was crucial, and the responsibility weighed heavily on me.

In response to my question about her unexpected smile, Raven revealed the twist in our plan: without communication systems, the hangar bay door couldn't be opened from inside the rocket. This challenge, rather than discouraging her, seemed to invigorate Raven, presenting her with the opportunity for the spacewalk she had always envisioned. Bellamy's confusion at Raven's seemingly contradictory response was evident, but I understood her excitement. "She gets to take her spacewalk," I echoed, sharing in Raven's enthusiasm for this unexpected turn of events.

Our planning was abruptly interrupted by Murphy's arrival. His solitary appearance and the oxygenator in tow signaled something had gone wrong. As he collapsed from exhaustion, our collective concern shifted to Monty's whereabouts and well-being. Murphy's revelation that Monty was in trouble sent a shockwave through our group. Raven, thinking quickly, reassured us that the satellite dish alignment could be managed solo. She urged Bellamy and Murphy to go back for Monty, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. As they prepared to leave, Bellamy hesitated, perhaps wanting to say more, but I urged him to hurry. "No, I was just going to say hurry," I said, acknowledging the critical nature of the moment.

With a nod of acknowledgment, Bellamy disappeared into the woods with Murphy, their mission clear and urgent. Meanwhile, Raven, Harper, and I set about completing our respective tasks, each of us acutely aware that the fate of our entire group rested on the success of these endeavors. In that moment, as we each embarked on our vital missions, the reality of our dire circumstances was palpable. We were a team, bound together by necessity and a shared determination to overcome the impossible odds stacked against us.

Raven's voice carried a sense of urgency and a hint of worry as she handed me Monty's pack, which held all the necessary equipment for the task. "Monty's pack. It has everything inside," she emphasized, ensuring I was fully equipped for the mission. Her reminder about the time constraints added to the gravity of the situation. "Just remember, you have only ten minutes to make it back from the tower. Any longer, and we'll have to leave without you."

I nodded, feeling the weight of the pack on my shoulder and the responsibility on my mind. "Ten minutes. I got this," I said, trying to sound more confident than I felt. The awareness that every second counted was a heavy burden to bear.

"Any last advice?" I asked, seeking any additional guidance that could make a difference.

Raven's advice was straightforward, laced with a hint of her characteristic dry humor. "Run fast," she said. But then, her tone softened, revealing the underlying emotion she usually kept hidden. "And Kegan, just remember that I love you," she sighed, her words carrying a weight that went beyond the immediate crisis. Her confession, so rare and genuine, stopped me in my tracks. I quickly closed the distance between us and pulled her into a hug. "I know, Rave. I love you too," I whispered back, the emotion in my voice reflecting the depth of our bond.