Friendly Fire

Rinna Bane - (49) More Lies to More Truths

In the passing weeks of walking on foot, I didn't get very far.

I can see Nha Trang in the distance.

Maybe they can offer me some food, water, shelter, anything...

I was able to enter the village but it looks completely different from the last time I was here. Instead of a ghost town, it's full of life.

The factories and machinery are running.

People are flooding the streets with merchants trying to sell their items.

However, the noise of the crowds and machinery suddenly stopped as everyone stopped to stare at me and my exhausted figure.

I continued to walk despite the village freezing in time.

Suddenly, I hear a click. Not just any click. I know that click all too well to know that it is a small pistol of some description cocking back.

My steps slowed then paused when I saw a male point that gun at me.

"What is Resistance scum like you doing here?"

I tilted my head softly then looked down at the clothes that I was wearing. The Resistance uniform. I was lucky to have Raphael let me keep it, but at the same time, he probably allowed me to keep it as a reminder that I am no longer welcomed back to The South.

"Aye! I asked you a question, bitch. I expect a fucking answer."

My brows furrowed.

Dad told me that he was trying to ally Nha Trang with The South.
It would make sense considering The South and Nha Trang are basically neighbours.
Not to mention, Nha Trang is very plentiful with their crops, livestock, and water.
It was a desperate act to ensure the people of The South would have enough to survive.
But that all will change and they will start living.
Just like dad envisioned for them.

"Can you not hear me?! Do you speak fucking English?!"

I drew in a deep breath and introduced myself. "My name... Is Rinna Bane. And for you information, I speak just fine.. I'm just looking for a place to stay for a day or two. Please... I'll be out of your hair sooner than you think."

The man lowered his stance for a moment before returning to pointing the gun steady and straight at me again. "Resistant dirtbags like you aren't welcome-"

"I am no longer with them." I interrupted then continued after hearing the gasps from the crowd. "I am no longer with them... I- I work for The Elite Strike Force..." I fumbled with the pockets at my sides and held up my military ID as well as showed them the dog tag that I cherished around my neck. "See? I am on your side. Please..."

The man infront of me then frowned and held the silence. "What is your objective?"

"To protect you from Langply... I need to get to Thanh Hoa but as you know, that's on the otherside of the country. I will be passing through villages and small towns as well as staying in a few of them. I beg you for your hospitality."

"Thanh Hoa? What's are you doing getting there strictly on foot for? Wouldn't The Elite Strike Force have some transportation available to take you?"

I knew he was growing suspiscious. "What's the point in transportation when your supplies are robbed daily. Our fuel source is near empty, we don't have enough to get me into Thanh Hoa."

The man lowered the gun in his hand and returned it to a sheath on his left side. "Well... Since The Elite Strike Force were able to evacuate my people to a safer tomorrow. I am willing to repay that debt by getting you into Thanh Hoa."