Ad Astra Per Aspera

Chapter 23

"The power of words."

Rue POV

5 days before the explosion on the island

"Are you okay Rue?"

"Yeah, it's just the last mission, I cared about Marcelo, you know. He was like a brother to me. I know I'm not supposed to show my emotions, but it really affected me."

"Don't listen to them, it's okay to show your emotions, but- there is something you should know."

"What?"

"I did some digging, since they gave me access to their system, and I found out something I shouldn't have. If you tell them that you know, they will kill you, they will kill anyone you tell if they find out that you know the truth. So you have to promise me to be careful."

"I promise."

"There is no easy way of saying this, and I won't sugarcoat it for you. The whole, you can leave part, it's a sham. They lied. They only let a few people actually leave, just to keep the facade, and it's with those who didn't really have friends here. Their empire is being held by having assassins on the speed dial."

"What?"

"They didn't rescue you out of the goodness in their heart, why do you think none of you have health problems? They needed the best, they needed those who could last, and they couldn't let the dangerous out into the world, so they killed them under the pretence that they forgot all of their memories, not just this place, so there is no point in you trying to find them."

"But, they care about us."

"They gave you a sense of security, to make you feel at home. They are gaslighting you into staying here, and Marcelo's death wasn't an accident."

"What?"

"Before the mission, he came to the guys and asked if this could be counted as his final step to reach the next level and asked if he could leave after he finishes it."

"Marcelo wanted to leave?"

"Yes, he hasn't told any of you yet, he didn't want to distract you from the goal. But he also asked if there is a way to keep memories of your friendship, if he wants to take another person with him. Marcelo was planning on leaving and taking others. That's a lot to lose."

"But he was killed by the opposing team."

"When hey got to the ground, he received an order from Blaze to change position. He wasn't supposed to be there. It was a setup to get him killed, get you angry and make sure you all stay."

"Oh god!"

"I will get all of you out, I promise, I am working on it, but you cannot let them know that you know, they will kill you."

"I understand. Thank you for telling me."

"You deserve to know the truth. Be careful, just know I will get you out. Get everyone ready and wait for my signal."