Chapter 6: Safety
The woman frowns at Henrick’s outburst and crosses her arms disapprovingly. "You’re welcome." She says defiantly, her ears twitching in agitation. Father David places a hand on Henrick’s shoulder, bringing him out of his shock. "I’m sorry, thank you for saving us. I’m Henrick, this is David." says the soldier, embarrassment creeping up on his face.
The woman waves off his thanks, a frown marring her face. "I’m Selene. We have to hurry and get to the camp." With preternatural grace, Selene continues navigating the maze-like sewer channels. "That was stupid of you both. To walk around above while the thunderstorm was raging." she pauses as she turns to look at Henrick, her face tight with tension. "What caused you both to do that?"
The duo are unable to answer as a mutated cockroach the size of a king sized bed suddenly rushes towards them from the darkness. Henrick steps forward and unleashes a bolt of electricity, far thicker than anything he has ever released, and incapacitates it. The insect writhes as lightning courses throughout its being, and stills as Father David stomps on its head with a concussive blast.
Henrick gives David an approving nod and watches as dark purple mist enters the priest’s body. "This feels...odd. Like recovering from a workout." the Father says, as he cleans his shoes on the cockroaches carcass and stretches his body. Selene merely nods at the efficient kill. The trio continue on without conversation, weary of attracting unwanted attention again.
A few minutes into the walk, the group rounds a bend. Henrick and David widen their eyes as they take in what looks to be an encampment of humans. The hushed whispers of the fearful and injured permeates the air as the inhabitants notice the new arrivals.
Distrustful stares and undisguised scowls follow them as they walk deeper into the camp, snippets of conversations audible to their ears.
"...ability user?..."
"...less rations..."
"...more?"
"...no space..."