The docks at Sierra were never quiet.
Even before sunrise, there was always movement—boots against worn wood, low voices carrying over the water, the distant hum of patrol units shifting along the perimeter.
Today felt no different.
And yet, everything had changed.
Blaire stood near the edge of the boarding platform, her bag slung over her shoulder, fingers resting loosely against the strap. The air was cool, carrying the faint scent of metal and water, familiar in a way that made leaving it feel... noticeable.
Not painful.
Just... real.
Behind her, Sierra moved as it always did. People working. Guards stationed. Life continuing without pause.
It didn't stop for anyone.
Not even her.
She took it in—not like she was saying goodbye.
Just... remembering.
"I thought I'd find you here."
Blaire smiled slightly before she even turned.
"I didn't feel like standing in a line," she said.
Aunt Ryen stepped up beside her, her presence as steady and commanding as ever. Even here people shifted subtly when she passed. Not out of panic.
Out of respect.
Out of knowing.
Blaire glanced at her, eyes softening just a fraction. "You're late."
"I had to make sure the city wouldn't fall apart without me," Ryen replied dryly.
Blaire huffed a quiet laugh. "Tragic."
For a moment, they stood side by side, looking out at the transport ship docked ahead. It was massive, its structure sharp and precise, built with the kind of technology Sierra didn't have.
Didn't need.
Until now.
"They built it bigger," Blaire noted.
"They expect more people," Ryen said.
There was a pause after that. Not uncomfortable. Just... full.
Blaire shifted her weight slightly, then looked at her.
"You don't have to stay," she said. "I know you have things to—"
"I'm exactly where I need to be."
The answer was immediate.
Certain.
Blaire didn't argue.
She never did when Ryen used that tone.
Another call echoed across the dock—recruits beginning to gather, guards checking names, the quiet rise of nerves threading through the crowd.
Blaire watched them for a second, then exhaled softly.
"This is the part where you give me a speech," she said.
Ryen turned her head, studying her—not like a leader assessing a soldier.
Like someone memorizing something they already knew by heart.
"I don't need to give you a speech," she said.
"No?"
"No." A small pause. "You already know everything I would say."
Blaire tilted her head slightly, considering that.
BINABASA MO ANG
Uncharted Lands
Mystery / ThrillerA deadly virus known as the Purogreen virus has broken out across the world, infecting and destroying nearly everything in its path. Blaire is sent to Camp Seymour-a heavily controlled facility designed to train survivors to fight back against the i...
