The Choosing

Chapter Twenty Two

I followed blindly and silently prayed everything would work out. I feared only one thing at this point though; somebody else I loved getting hurt or worse. I couldn't care less about what happened to me at this point.

A kick to the back of my heel signaled me to walk fast. I took the hint and sped up. I felt the cool wind outside, meaning we were close.

"Identification please."

I squinted to see a large man. I knew I had seen him before, but I wasn't sure where. It might have been the man that led Essence and me to our injections. Jeremy!

I heard shuffling and mumbling as all of the guards handed Jeremy their identification. I knew there wouldn't be any trouble with that because they were all real guards. The only thing I was a bit worried about is how they were going to explain why they were taking us outside. If that other female guard had said something to elder Ryann we were done for.

"Everything looks good," Jeremy said, "Now, where are you taking these kids and why?"

"Why do you need to know?" snapped Rhett.

"Jeez man, it's just for the sign-out chart. I really don't care, but as per Elder Ryann, I need to keep track of everyone that comes in and out. Apparently, some guards have been trying to escape with prisoners. Elder Ryann is not happy out it, dude."

My heart began to race at Jeremy's words. Elder Ryann knew about the escapes. Did that mean she also knew we were trying to escape right this minute, right under her nose? Did Alistair come up with a good enough lie to keep her attention on him? What would happen if we got caught?

"Fine," Rhett said, "I'm taking them outside for command training. Direct orders from Elder Ryann."

I could tell he was trying to be as vague as possible. That seemed smart, there was no reason to add detail and get caught in a lie.

A few moments passed before Jeremy spoke, "Alright, you guys are all set. Just make sure to keep a close eye on the prisoners. Also, if you see anything suspicious let me know. Okay?"

"Okay," Rhett said gruffly.

As soon as I felt the terrain change to a spongier material under my sneakers my eyes shot open. I looked to Cade and I could practically feel his anxiety. He was just as skeptical about this as I was. I shot him a quick, small smile and turned my head to face forward. We still needed to look like we were under command.

Rhett led us to a large wall. It was one of the exits of The Town Walls. This exit didn't seem to have nearly as much security as the other ones though. I figured it must be because of the sheer amount of guards in this place. They figured the prisoner wouldn't get this far in the first place.

Rhett motioned us to come in close. We obeyed.

"This is the moment of truth," he said, "This exit leads to countless other communities. I know none have you have seen outside of our community, but these other communities are different and perhaps better. Run to the first community you see. It should have big pink walls. Tell the guards that Rhett sent you."

I nodded despite all of the questions running through my head.

"You're not coming?" Essence asked.

"No, and don't worry about us. Once I open this door, I expect you guys to run and not stop until you reach where I told you to go. Got it?"

"Yes," we all voiced.

A loud bang from inside earned our attention. I saw Elder Ryann and a bunch of guards pouring out of the doors. Alistair followed looking like a zombie.