Traveller

Chapter 2 ~ Silver Threads

The words echoed into the silence that followed, and you could metaphorically hear a ‘pin drop’. I never completely understood that expression till this moment. Out of everything that had happened tonight, my vision, the mission, hell even speaking to the Headmistress, the fact that this boy had committed suicide shocked me most. Not because something like this was impossible but because in that photo, a school photo, no less, he looked so full of life, and that was an achievement within itself. When she told me he died, I expected some sort of accident; drunk driver maybe? He did not look like the stereotypical suicidal teen; then again, it’s amazing what a person can hide when they want to. Even though last year I went through an extremely dark stage I had never been low enough to even contemplate suicide, let alone go through with it. I wanted to help this boy-- no one should ever feel that low.

“When do I leave?” I directed my question at Headmistress Brookes. She gave me a warm smile before replying.

“We leave in an hour” she said putting an emphasis on the 'we'My confusion must have showed because she continued hurriedly, “Because this is not your Traveller mission but in fact a task on unique circumstances issued by the Elders. I will be coming alone to offer support if needed and to guide you.”

Great, just great, they didn’t trust me as much as they claimed they did; they were sending a babysitter, to make sure I didn’t screw up again. I buried my hurt; this was not about me it was about saving the boy. I nodded at the Headmistress and then looked at my brother. The look on his face was priceless; I don’t think he could have been more shocked.

“Okay, umm… Do you need me for anything else or is it ok if I go get ready to leave?” I directed the question at everyone else in the room, but it was Headmistress Brookes who responded.

“No Lia, I think that’s everything. I should probably get packing as well,”

I started to get up when one of the Elders spoke; it was strange he had this deep husky voice that sounded like it was made for commanding.

“Come here, young one. I have something to say to you, but it is for your ears alone so the others must leave.” Both Headmistress Brookes and my brother got the message they left immediately, only pausing at the door to bow to the elders before disappearing. “Now that we have some privacy you must know that we are placing our full trust in you. Headmistress Brookes is to accompany you not because we believe you cannot complete the task. But because I have had a vision and I foresee that you will need her experience when facing these new challenges.” Was he a mind reader or something? ”During your task, remember that you are stronger than most students here. You were selected because each of us saw something in you that many adults, such as your brother, overlooked. You will not disappoint us. Now go, for you must leave soon.” The Elder finished his speech and shooed me away with his hand. I bowed to each of the five Elders individually before leaving the room.

Outside the door I ran into my brother, and he did not look happy to see me. Remembering the Elders words, I gave my brother a small smile before starting my long walk back to my room.

Outside it was freezing, and I could see my breath pool out in front of me as I walked. Internally, I cursed myself for not bringing a warm coat; it was cold enough to be snowing! I don’t know how I could miss the freezing cold on my walk here.

By the time I made it back to my room I couldn’t feel my limbs for a second time tonight. I had no idea where the task would take me so I grabbed a variety of clothes. Who knows maybe I would be lucky enough to go somewhere we it didn’t snow for Christmas. I finished packing and changed out of the stupid dress into my favourite pair of jeans. They were worn to death with holes on the knees, but I didn’t care. Just like my shoes, they were a comfort thing. I pulled on a blue t-shirt and an oversized jumper before letting my hair down; if there was one thing I hated, it was having my hair up.