SECRETS OF EVERCREST (BOOK 2)

Chapter 29: Shadows of Defiance

Chapter 29: Shadows of Defiance

December 26, 2024 - 6:00 AM

The rain fell heavily outside the safe zone, the rhythmic drumming of droplets echoing through the early morning. Inside, the air was thick with anticipation. Sol watched her grandpa, Gregory, as he hurriedly gathered his papers.

“Why are you in such a rush, Grandpa?” Sol asked, her brow furrowing in concern.

Gregory looked up, a hint of urgency in his voice. “I have a meeting, Sol. I can’t say who it’s with, but it’s important.”

“Important enough to leave without breakfast?” Sol pressed, her tone teasing but her heart racing at the thought of danger.

“Trust me, I’ll grab something on the way,” he replied, giving her a reassuring smile before heading out the door.

Sol’s curiosity piqued as she followed him to the meeting room. She had heard whispers of the chaos unfolding at Evercrest University, and the thought of what lay beyond the walls ignited a spark of determination within her.

As Gregory entered the meeting room, Captain Ravenna Steele, the commanding officer at Evercrest University, stepped in with her team. She was a striking figure, her presence demanding respect. Rain dripped from her slick hair as she took a seat across from Gregory.

“Thank you for coming, Captain,” Gregory said, his voice steady despite the tension in the air.

Ravenna leaned back, crossing her arms. “You’re lucky I had the time. What do you want to discuss?”

“I’m here to offer military assistance and any resources we can provide,” Gregory stated, his eyes locked on hers.

Ravenna laughed lightly, but her eyes were cold. “You think I need help? I’m a captain, Gregory. I can handle any monsters they throw at us.”

Sol, standing just outside the door, felt her blood boil. She had heard enough. With a determined stride, she pushed the door open, stepping into the room. “You don’t understand, do you?” she said, her voice cutting through the air like a blade.

Ravenna’s eyes widened in surprise. “And why would a little girl like you interrupt this meeting?”

“Because you’re underestimating Lilith!” Sol exclaimed, her passion igniting. “She’s not just another monster. She can destroy you in the blink of an eye! It’s not just about fighting; it’s about survival. She’ll corrupt your mind and leave you an empty vessel!” Her voice echoed in the room, fierce and powerful.

Ravenna scoffed, shaking her head. “What do you know about it?”

Sol stepped closer, unwavering. “I know that you’re too proud to accept help when you need it. I know that this isn’t just a battlefield; it’s a war for our very souls. If you think you can handle this alone, you’re mistaken.”

Ravenna blinked, taken aback by the intensity of Sol’s words. “This is not a game. You shouldn’t be here.”

“Maybe not, but it’s my family at stake, too!” Sol shot back. “If you refuse my grandfather’s offer, you’ll regret it. Don’t call us when things get worse. Good luck with that!” She turned to Gregory, her expression softening. “Let’s go, Grandpa. This meeting is adjourned.”

As they walked out, Gregory’s heart swelled with pride. “Sol, I’m amazed at your courage.”

She chuckled, shaking her head. “I just said what needed to be said. But now I need to see the university for myself. I have to check out that gate.”

Gregory nodded, understanding the fire in her heart. “Alright. But we’ll need backup. I’ll make the arrangements.”

As they prepared to leave, Sol glanced back at the meeting room. Ravenna Steele watched them, a flicker of respect in her eyes. Perhaps Sol’s defiance had planted a seed of doubt in her mind about her own strength.

Outside, the rain continued to fall, but within Sol, a storm was brewing—a determination to face whatever awaited them at Evercrest University.

End of Chapter 29, Book 2