The Garden of Eden (Silent Moments Series: Book 5)

Chapter 15

 Octavia's decision to retreat, though made with visible reluctance, was a testament to the gravity of their situation. Her expression was a mix of frustration and resolve as she gave the command, a leader grappling with the necessity of survival over pride. The return to camp was hastened by Madi and others' efforts, their quick thinking and teamwork evident in every step. Once back, I immediately attended to Octavia's wound. As I methodically cleaned and stitched the injury, Octavia grimaced and hissed with each movement, her toughness evident even in moments of vulnerability. Madi watched from a distance, her fascination with Octavia mingled with a hint of discomfort at the graphic nature of the procedure. "Gross," she remarked, though the smile on her face betrayed her awe.

As I focused on Octavia, I remained acutely aware of Madi's presence. "The infection's passing, but this is going to hurt," I warned, preparing to apply the antiseptic. Octavia's terse nod was all the permission I needed. Octavia's question to Madi about her survival in the radiation-laden environment hung heavily in the air. I could see the apprehension flicker across Madi's face, a silent plea for guidance.

Thinking quickly, I interjected with a fabricated story of synthetic nightblood, mirroring my own. "I took her to Becca's lab and shared my bone marrow to keep her alive."

Octavia's response was a mixture of surprise and appreciation. "You're lucky Kegan found you," she said, offering Madi a rare smile.

Inside, I felt a surge of relief. The lie was necessary, a shield to protect Madi from unwanted scrutiny and potential danger. Octavia's acceptance of the explanation was a small victory in the ongoing challenge of keeping Madi safe. As I continued tending to Octavia, I couldn't help but feel the weight of responsibility. Madi's secret was safe for now, but the future was uncertain. Protecting her was more than just a promise; it was a commitment I intended to keep, no matter the cost.

Cooper's voice, laced with urgency, cut through the tent's stillness. "You ready to move?" she asked, her gaze fixed on Octavia.

Octavia's response, though labored, was resolute. "She needs another day's rest," I interjected, aware of the toll her injuries had taken. Cooper, however, seemed more concerned with Octavia's symbolic presence than her physical wellbeing.

Octavia, pushing through the pain, asserted her readiness. "I'm done licking my wounds," she declared, her voice raspy yet firm as I finished wrapping a fresh bandage around her arm. "Let's go remind the others of what we promised them."

As Cooper helped Octavia with her regalia, I noticed Octavia's intense gaze on Madi. Madi, meanwhile, looked on with a mixture of awe and excitement, clearly starstruck by the legendary leader.

Approaching Madi, Octavia reached out and clasped her forearm, sharing a phrase emblematic of Grounder resilience: "Kom de ashes osir shall rise."

Madi's response was a mix of admiration and a hint of regret. "Octavia's such a badass," she murmured. "I wish we didn't have to lie to her."

Kneeling before Madi, I locked eyes with her, feeling the weight of our secret. "Hey," I began softly, "we've talked about this. We have to lie to everyone to keep you safe." I explained the danger of her true identity being discovered, especially in a time of war and uncertainty.

Understanding flickered in Madi's eyes, and she nodded, her face a canvas of mixed emotions. Pulling her into a hug, I felt her head nestle against my neck, a moment of peace and connection amidst the chaos. Keeping Madi safe was my top priority. Her limited exposure to others was a calculated move to avoid drawing attention. The fewer questions about her, the safer she would be. In the quiet embrace, a sense of responsibility enveloped me. Our world had grown more complicated and dangerous, but the bond between Madi and me remained a steadfast source of strength and solace.

Bellamy's voice, laced with urgency, echoed through the camp, growing more desperate. "Kegan!" he shouted. I could hear the strain in his tone, a clear sign that something significant had unfolded.

"I'm in here!" I called back, just as the tent flap was thrust open. Bellamy, flanked by Monty and Harper, stepped in. Their faces were a canvas of concern and determination, signaling that the stakes had risen.

"I need you with me," Bellamy said, his gaze locking onto mine. There was a palpable sense of trust and reliance in his words. Without hesitation, I nodded, acknowledging the unspoken gravity of the situation.

I turned to Madi, my voice soft but firm. "Stay here," I instructed, meeting her eyes to convey the importance of her staying safe. She nodded, a silent promise of obedience shining in her eyes.

As we quickly exited the tent, Bellamy briefed me on Diyoza's latest move. She had dropped food supplies and offered safety in the Valley to anyone willing to defect by tonight. The news sent a ripple of shock through me, but there was no time to process it fully. While keeping pace with Bellamy, my mind raced with thoughts of how often I had found myself intervening in critical meetings since our return to the ground. It seemed that my role had evolved into that of a crucial mediator and advisor in these turbulent times. Bellamy's stride was brisk, his mind clearly processing the implications of Diyoza's offer. As we moved through the camp, I braced myself for the challenges ahead. The decision our people faced was monumental, and I knew my counsel might prove vital in guiding Bellamy through the intricate web of politics and survival. In this moment, I felt the weight of responsibility resting on our shoulders. We were navigating a delicate balance of power, loyalty, and survival, and every step we took could tip the scales in unpredictable ways.

Miller stood guard at the door, his stance rigid as he challenged our entrance. "This is a private meeting," he hissed, protective of Octavia's space. However, Octavia's authoritative voice quickly cut through the tension. "It's fine," she commanded, and Miller reluctantly stepped aside, allowing us passage.

I seized the opportunity to advocate for those in the Valley. "We all have people there who need our help," I implored, hoping to sway the focus to a more humanitarian approach.

Octavia, however, was unmoved, her voice icy. "If you're talking about your mother, I'm not interested in rescuing traitors. My focus is on preventing more defections," she retorted sharply, her eyes steely.

Bellamy, standing just behind me, voiced his frustration. "We're wasting time looking for enemies here in Polis. Our priority should be the Valley," he argued, his voice laced with logical reasoning.

Octavia was quick to counter. "Diyoza can see our every move," she reminded us, pointing out the strategic disadvantage they faced.

That's when Harper stepped forward, introducing Monty's solution. "Laser-comm, dialed into their mothership," Monty explained, holding up the radio. "With a relay tower and a computer, I can blind their surveillance."

The plan elicited mixed reactions. Miller's smile showed his approval, while Octavia, after a moment of consideration, gave a terse nod. "Fine. Miller, assist Monty. Cooper, handle any defectors. We're done here," she said, her tone leaving no room for debate, before promptly exiting to oversee training.

As the room cleared, Bellamy's voice broke through, heavy with sadness. "That is not my sister," he murmured, a hint of loss in his eyes.

Before I could respond, my attention was diverted by the sight of Madi and Gaia nearby. "I'm sorry," I said quickly to Bellamy, my focus shifting entirely to Madi. "I have to go."