Innocence Lost

Chapter 23 (Amity)

The next morning we were woken up by a steel pipe banging on the metal rail of the entryway, just like the first day of initiation.

"Guys, get your asses up, you have half an hour to get ready and get to the train" Four shouted before leaving.

"Yeah yeah, we're up" Tyler said, his voice all muffled.

My eyes opened but I couldn't bring myself to get out of bed. I can't bring myself to face Eric after last night. A part of me felt like I led him on, like everything was my fault. I shouldn't have played with him the way I did.

"Katie, come on, get up" Jesse said yanking my sheets off me.

"Jesse, you ass!" I screeched.

I sat up shivering, the room was colder than usual this morning. I changed into my cargo pants, tank top, long sleeved V-neck shirt, and my jacket. We were each given a back pack, so I packed in a couple of extra pairs of socks, underwear, and an extra shirt. I put on my boots, braided my hair, and I was good to go.

This is really going to suck.

Caroline and I quickly ran to the dining hall to pick up some bagels, muffins, and coffee for whoever wanted. We made it to the train with minutes to spare.

"About time" Eric said irritated.

I didn't even bother looking at him, I couldn't.

"Is he ever in a good mood?" Caroline said under her breath.

"I've never seen him in one. Must be an Erudite trait" Ryan answered, overhearing us.

I roll my eyes, that's so not true. Zeke, Maria, and Xavier showed up with huge duffle bags right when the train was approaching. The train finally came into view and we start to run as it got closer. Eric was the first to jump on, opening the train door for everyone. One by one we each grab onto the train's door handle, pulling ourselves up. Once we were all on Eric gathered us to the middle of the car. He stood before us in full Leader mode.

"Alright. Once we get to the Amity sector of the fence you are going to be assigned to your post in twos. Each pair will be given a radio to use only to report any suspicious activity. You will also will be given a gun with one single bullet in the chamber, I suggest drawing your weapon only in the matter of life and death. All else, use the skills you were taught in stage one, you were taught them for a reason" he explained as he stood with his arms folded across his chest.

Caroline and I sat against the back wall the rest of the ride. Eric hasn't acknowledged me once, which could be a blessing or a curse. When the train starts slowing down we both stand up to prepare for the jump. Looking outside there were wide open fields past the metal fence, barb wiring lined the top. We go to stand next to Four and follow him as he jumped off. Gratification ran through my veins when I noticed I was among the few to land on my feet. Four also noticed and nodded.

"This way" Four instructed us.

As we walk to the fence a couple of Dauntless trucks pulled up. Ryker jumps off the back of one, walking up to greet Eric. What a douch. There were also a few more Dauntless members with him, I'm assuming were part of his security team. That's when I see him, the guy I danced with last night at the club when I was trying to make Eric jealous.

"Shit!" I whispered as I turned into Amanda. 

"What is it?" She asked.

"That guy standing next to Ryker, with the dirty blonde hair. I danced with him last night, like up close and personal"

"Haha, no way. Look at you, you little tease" she laughed.

"Shhh, shut up" I hissed.

"Listen up initiates. Ryker is going to assign you your partners and your posts. Once your assigned you need to pay close attention, no goofing around. For today you are protectors of the city" Eric yelled.