Element [The Darkling]

Chapter Two

 <<Years Ago>>

"Come on out, witch!"

I felt fear pumping through my veins as my Mother ran into my bedroom, her hazel eyes filled with fright as she pulled me from my bed and dragged me roughly towards the corner of my room.

"Mummy, what's happening?" I whimpered, tears filling my blue eyes.

"Listen to me, luv," Mother stroked my black hair, tucking a loose strand behind my ear. "Remember what we talked about?" I nodded, sniffling.

She pried her fingers into the wooden floor of our cabin, pulling up the small door and opening it with a slight creak. "Hide, my darling. Hide." Mother told me, gently shoving me down into the crawl space. "Hide, and if there's a fire, get outside through the secret door. Remember where it is?" She asked me.

I looked down the dark tunnel with fright, knowing that just a few inches away was a door in the side of the house that opened, giving me a straight shot into the woods. Mother got up to leave, but I shot to my feet, grabbing her hand.

"Where are you going?" I asked, tears streaming down my cheeks. She cupped my face in her hands, her hazel eyes staring deep into mine.

"Remember I love you, little starlight." Mother whispered, leaning her forehead against mine and closing her eyes. She pulled away, and we opened our eyes. Her gaze was serious as she put her hands on my shoulders. "Remember. Never trust anyone with what you are. Not even the Grisha. You're different. You have the power to bring people together, and that terrifies them." She told me fiercely. "Hide, starlight."

She pushed my head down gently and closed the trap door, leaving me in complete darkness.

Leaving me forever.

                                   <<Present>>

I remained quiet as I was shuffled through the crowds into the main tent, squished between Mikhael and Mal as the First Army gathered to listen to Commander Bodhen's announcement.

The graying man finally made an appearance, stepping up on the podium so we all could see him.

"Alright, listen up." He called, and we quieted. "I know some of you have been on the road for a week, so I'll be brief. Most of you will continue north to the Fjerdan frontlines. Or south to the Shu Han border." My eyes caught the sight of the huge banner with the portrait of an angry looking Shu man, and a red handprint on it.

The Shu Han were our enemies. Unfortunately, anyone who looked like the enemy was treated as such. Even people like Mal and Alina.

"The Second Army, however, has a shiny new solution to our food shortage, and it sails tomorrow for Novokirbirsk." He announced. "If this model works, it means a full meal for everyone in this tent next week."