Illuminated

They knew better, not to go into the forest.
But the forest had been their only Oasis: Even if, there lived a murderer whom had killed little children , setting tree houses on fire, and their own family.

After all, who, really, wanted to not only TAKE a test, but pass a test from a group of random men in all black and white? 8 had passed: 8 had been taken. Three months later, only the men had returned. 8 had passed again, and this time, they included the kids no one knew about.
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"They're harmless, you know." He scoffs, reaching out to touch the flower. "As am I. I'm not what they say I am." He notes, that the girl says nothing. He raises his brows, reaching for her bangs: she instantly swats it, clutching her eyes and backing away.

"I wouldn't do that if you knew whats good for you." A boy came from behind a tree. He knew, that he would never admit to following them out here, even though it was clear he had. The boys face grew red.

"And I know this is YOUR fault." The boy accused. He instantly stands at the girls side: he reaches a hand to the small of her back. He could see, that the rest of his pathetic group emerged from within the trees.

He scoffs. Blinking slowly to the boy. "I am in the same boat as you are.." He glances behind him, smiling slightly: two boys join from behind him. "Do I look as bad as you claim?" He directs this question to the girl.

Her mouth parts slightly: the movement caused a chain reaction on her face: the tears stream silently.

His face falls: despite his intentions, he had made the promise: yet, once again, he broke it.
He wanted to apologize... yet how could he, after what was to come next?

He raises his hand, solemnly, above his head. His dirty blonde hair casting his face in shadow.

I'm.... Sorry.