Citrus

By Tabitha Kumwembe

Her name was Alexis Creed, a woman who was by no means ordinary. At the tender age of 18 years old, she is recruited into the army called Citrus. Citrus fights for peace and adheres to the call of justice. As the years go by, Alexis steadily rises up the ranks to become the first woman in charge of one of the strongest units in the Dipleon Galaxy. A military defense expert by trade and by the vast majority of colleagues is described as one of the most decorated soldiers of their time. However, this is not how her story starts. This starts in the year 2106 when Prudowian soldiers annihilate her country Sapphire which ultimately changes her path in life. Blinded by rage, she vows to never ally with a Prudowian. Tragically, fate will not have it that way as she comes across her first Prudowian in Citrus. This man is enlisted as a Lieutenant in her unit. Alexis decides to throw all her morals out the window. Motivated by hatred, Alexis decides to lead this man into a path of destruction. How far is she willing to go to lose her humanity for revenge?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tabitha Kumwembe
• Release date: Jan 26, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393822646

Book preview

CITRUS BY

TABITHA KUMWEMBE

Contents

CITRUS BY

TABITHA KUMWEMBE

About the Author

Prologue

1. THE BEGINNING

2.WELCOMING FUNCTION

3. CONFLICT

4.DISSENSION

5.TRAINING

6. ORIGINS OF CITRUS: PEACE AT HOME

7. ORIGINS OF CITRUS: THE FALLEN PRINCE

8. THE FIRST MISSION

9. RESULTS AND DISCIPLINE

10. THE FIGHT OVER HECTOR’S PICTURE

11. SLOWLY BREAKING IN

12. SLOWLY BREAKING IN: EXPOSURE

13. FALLING

14. THE VISIT TO CITRUS ACADEMY

15. SOMETHING I CANT DO

16.HARSH REVELATIONS

17. ON MY OWN

18. YOU AND I

19. THE TRUTH HURTS

20. OPERATION VITAL-CODE

21. PROTOCOL

22. OLD FRIEND

Epilogue...

Authors Note

About the Author

Tabitha Kumwembe is a young African woman. She currently resides in Lilongwe, Malawi, the warm heart of Africa. The 23-year-old is a recent college graduate from Monash South Africa with a major in Economics. She discovered her passion for writing when she was fourteen years old upon her discovery of fanfiction.  To find out more, visit instagram/twitter pages citrus.the.novel.

Copyright © Tabitha Kumwembe 2019

All rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright owner.

All characters and places in this book are fictitious, and any resemblance to actual persons or places, is purely coincidental.

ACKNOWLEGMENTS

Firstly, I want to thank the living God for giving me this passion for writing.  I want to thank my parents for being with me during this journey. Mom and Dad, for everything you have sacrificed for us, I am truly thankful and I love you. I want to thank my sister, Isabel, for being my pillar and providing me with the tools to complete this book. You were one of the reasons why I never gave up.  To my big brother Atupele, for going over this story several times and helped make some of the first edits. You made time for me during your busy schedule and I wanted you to know that I am very grateful. To Madalitso and Thokozani, my brothers, thank you for the love and encouragement. Beatrice, my editor, thank you for the final proofreading.

Prologue

"What should we do with them?" The callous soldier asked his captain. The grin on his face terrified me. It was one of the coldest smiles I had ever seen. It sent a shiver down my spine and left me paralyzed in fear.  I would never forget his profile; black hair, smooth pale skin, and prominent hazel eyes. He pointed his gun at my Papa.  Tears ran down my face. I was helpless. My mother held me in her arms.

Finish them off! his superior ordered and strode out of our hut.

Please, not my family. Take my life instead, don't hurt them. Please. Please, My Papa begged.

My Papa was on his knees. He pleaded with the soldier as tears ran down his dark cheeks. Was Papa crying? For the very first time in my life, I witnessed him in such a vulnerable state. Papa was strong, he never cried.

I am only following orders. Remember my face, Victor Ambrose, the man who put an end to your pathetic existence. He chuckled.

He pointed the gun at my mother and shot her in the head. She fell onto the ground; her body lay still. I was shaking. I screamed as I watched a pool of blood surround her. My Papa ran to the soldier and tried to snatch the gun away.

Alexis, run! Papa yelled at me. His plea went on deaf ears. I was holding on to my mother, covered in her blood.

I was in denial; my mother was not dead. She was alive, just a few minutes ago. She kept saying everything would be fine. I held onto her lifeless body. I did not hear my father desperately calling out to me.

Alexis, get out of here, please run! Papa yelled at me.

I saw the desperation in his sad eyes. He was still fighting with the soldier for the gun.

Father, I can't leave you and mother. I can't, I won't leave...

Alexis, please! My Papa yelled at me.

He hoped his words would reach my broken spirit. I looked down at my mother’s face, her eyes were lifeless. Her body was just an empty shell. Fear overwhelmed me.

It was at that moment I realized I did not want to die. I stood up on shaking legs.

That's it, Alexis, run! Run and don't look back. Run Alexis! My Papa bellowed.

The soldier hit my father in the stomach. My father fell to his knees. He pointed the gun at his face. I turned around and kicked the door open and dashed out of our hut. I ran for safety. I would go anywhere my small legs would take me.

I heard the gun go off and I knew my father was dead. I closed my eyes. With mother and father gone, I was now alone in this world. My cheeks were wet with tears.

As I made my way for an escape, I registered the chaos that was now in my village. Soldiers filled my village. They were everywhere; the streets, village centre, market, and huts. I ran into the forest that was at the border of the nearest village. I prayed that they would not find me. 

Papa, Mama, why is this happening? Why Sapphire, why my people, why my home? I sobbed.

I watched helplessly from a distance as the Prudowians massacred my people. They killed thousands of innocent women and children. I hid in the woods as they set my village to flames. I quivered in fear.

More soldiers marched into my village, seemingly motivated by one goal only, to bring death and destruction.  Mercy was a trait these savages did not have. In my mind, the Prudowians were filled with darkness. The smell of blood was so thick in the air, I felt sick. I could not bear to watch anymore. I shut my eyes tight and began to hum to myself.

"This is a dream, this is a dream. This is a dream," I chanted.  It could not be my reality.

Surely this was impossible; the people of Prudowa would never betray us. We formed an alliance, one of absolute power. They had stabbed us in the back.

I never wanted to die. If I were to go out there, in the middle of that battlefield, what would be left of me? If I went out there, I would die too. They would kill me. So, I stood watching from the forest as the soldiers slowly tore down what was left of Sapphire. Sapphire's glorious land was now covered in blood. I had nothing left here, no family, no home. Nothing! Without my parents, I was empty. I could not cry, nor could I mourn. Still in a state of shock, I refused to believe that my perfect life was now shattered forever.

I'm sorry, Papa, Mama, I whispered to myself as I turned away from the horrific sight.

Fear drove my actions now, my legs moved on their own. I could not control my body. All I knew was fear of death. As these thoughts raced through my head, I dashed for an escape. I wanted to get as far away as I could.

I could not see a thing. The sky was filled with dark clouds and there was no moonlight.  As I forced my legs to push me further, I felt a searing pain ripple through my left foot and I immediately stumbled over and fell on my stomach. My body rolled over steep ground. Rocks and thick sticks poked my body. My foot was cut and the pain was intense. I bit my lip and held back a scream of anguish. My body stopped moving and I lay still.

My leg felt wet. I was bleeding. I knew that smell from anywhere. Though my eyes were starved of sight, I could always identify that odour. I tried to move my leg, but I was unable to. It was broken. Defeated both mentally and physically, there was no point in trying to get up and run. It was over. This was the end.

I looked up into the darkness of the sky. There was no moon to shine its light and bring hope. There was no shooting star which I could make a wish upon.

I smiled and came to a realization. You cannot run away from fate, can you? No matter what happens, every individual has their own destiny to follow.

This was the fate of the people of Sapphire. No longer would we roam this earth. We would cease to exist. I tried to run from fate, but it was impossible. I knew I would be joining my family soon. The family I claimed to love but left behind because I was a coward. Tears formed in my eyes once again. I thought of my slow demise. There were a lot of hungry beasts in this forest, perhaps one would find me and devour me. It was better than being killed by a Prudowian.

Papa, Mama I’m coming home. I'll be joining you soon. I wanted to make sure that they could hear me yet I knew that I was alone. I closed my eyes and waited for whatever was to come. I waited for fate.

1. THE BEGINNING

Alexis opened her eyes. Her feminine body was drenched in sweat, her chest heaved from her rapid breathing. She looked around and took in her surroundings. She was safe; it was just a nightmare. This nightmare had been reoccurring since she was a child, haunting her ever since.

It was just a dream, Alexis whispered to herself and gripped her chest.

Alexis took a deep breath and pushed her damp hair back. She closed her eyes for several minutes and sought inner peace. Turning her head to the side, she looked towards the nightstand staring at the picture that lay on the corner.

Alexis reached for it and picked it up. She studied the picture intently. This picture always brought her peace. She adored that picture of him. It was just a photo, yet Alexis felt like he was smiling right at her. Staring at it always gave her the motivation to go through her day.

Her sweet Hector, she knew he would be proud of her. She had come a long way. Placing the picture aside, she grabbed her watch to look at the time.

It was 6:45 a.m. It was time to get ready. The holiday was over. It was time to return to Citrus.

Alexis kicked off her sheets and strolled to the bathroom. She stood in front of the mirror and studied her appearance. There were bags under her eyes. It had been a while since she had a decent sleep. Night after night she had a nightmare. Every time she closed her eyes, she saw the faces from her haunted past. It left a terrible ache in her chest; it was a wound of the heart which could never be fixed.

Alexis shrugged her shoulders and pulled off her clothes. She was now running late. After a quick shower, Alexis strode back into her room.

Her room was simple just like her personality. Everything in it was beige in colour, her sheets, curtains, and carpet. Most people would consider it dull. However, Alexis thought it was perfect. She was not a fancy person and lived a simple lifestyle. After all, there was nothing colourful about her life.

It was the year 2125, a decade where the galaxy enjoyed peace. The wars which haunted the past were long forgotten; people from different nations joined forces for the greater good of the Dipleon galaxy. It was an age where modern advancements in technology and medicine were made. Times were changing and people were progressing. Nothing was ever at a standstill. 

It took her a few minutes to get ready. Alexis wore her loose black baggy pants and a striped tank top. She tied her shoulder-length black hair into a high bun and wore her dog tag, a soldier's identification if they were to die.  Walking to her wardrobe, Alexis threw her clothes into her duffel bag. Not that Alexis needed them since she would be in uniform most of the time. Hector's picture could never be forgotten. Before she packed it, she stared at it.

I’m going home today, Hector. Wish me all the best, my love. Alexis put her finger on his face and smiled.

Indeed, she was returning home. Citrus was her home, her only family.  Pride ran through her veins whenever she put on her uniform. Alexis Creed was one of the captains in Citrus, the army which protected the Democratic Federation. She had joined the organization when she was eighteen and quickly rose through the ranks. She was now twenty-nine and had settled in her position. Alexis was strong, strategic, and determined to make a difference. She was the first woman to reach such a position, in control of the strongest unit of Citrus.

She had no time for emotions, she had detached herself. What was important to her was getting the job done. She locked the door to her small apartment.  It was time to hit the road. Alexis walked to the road and patiently waited for the taxi. A few minutes later, it pulled up next to her and she got in.

Where are you headed off to? The taxi driver asked.

Harbour 69, Alexis said and looked outside the window.

Harbour 69, that is where the Defender 11 is expected to depart from? You're in Citrus? He looked at Alexis; his grey eyes were filled with mirth.

Yes, I am, Alexis replied.

Wait, I know you! You're Captain Creed, The Captain Alexis Creed. You fought in the War of Rleusis. You are a war hero! He shook with excitement.

It's not a big deal, Alexis said and brushed it off.

It is a big deal. You are an inspiration. You are courageous, strong, and brave. I look up to you. I salute you, ma'am. The polite young man saluted Alexis.

Alexis smiled. She was glad she was influencing people in the right way. That is why she joined Citrus.

Thank you. She saluted him.

Now could you take me to Harbour 69? It would be a shame if my ship were to leave me. She smiled at the young man.

Of course, he said and let out a light chuckle.

He was adorable. He looked to be not more than twenty years old. Alexis found him to be a charming young man. He tried to hit on her, but Alexis brushed him off politely. Alexis was not a cougar and she was not planning on becoming one anytime soon. He drove at a good speed. It took about two hours before she reached her destination. Alexis got out of the car and pulled out her duffel bag. She paid the taxi driver and walked away.

Ma’am, you forgot your change! he called out.

Keep it, Alexis said and waved at him.

Thank you. Good luck, Captain! He drove off.

Alexis sauntered to the dock. The Defender 11 had not arrived yet.

Captain!

Alexis turned her head to see Lena, Trinity, Maxillas, and Luther. They walked to her, excitement was written on their faces. Lena ran towards Alexis and gave her a big bear hug.

Captain, I have missed you! Lena squeezed Alexis in her slender arms.

Lena, I can't breathe! Alexis exclaimed.

Alexis wondered where Lena had gotten all this strength. The others laughed at the scene in front of them.

Sorry, Lena apologized and let go.

Alexis gasped for breath.

She regained her composure and looked at her sergeants. They had not changed much in the two months they had been on leave. Lena was still as beautiful as ever with her rosy red hair and fair skin. Trinity was of average height with silky black hair and dark penetrating eyes. Luther and Maxillas were twins with smooth cinnamon skin. They both had a bulky build. They seemed to have gotten fatter or was that added muscle?

It's good to see you. I'm glad to see that all of you are okay, Alexis said.

It's good to see you, Captain. They saluted her.

How was the break? Alexis asked.

It was exceptional. I got to see my family and friends. I went skiing. It was definitely one of the best, Lena said.

My mother bothered me. She insisted that I learn how to cook. I hate how she wants to domesticate me. Constantly, I have to remind her that this is the 22nd century; women are empowered, that's why I am a soldier, Trinity said and rolled her eyes.  

The talk of family always lowered Alexis's spirit. However, now was not the time to think about what she had lost. These were the people she had grown to love. This was her adopted family.

I agree with you, Alexis said with a smile on her face.

What were you up to, Maxillas? Alexis asked.

I had a lot of take-out, Maxillas stated. He shrugged his massive shoulders.

That explains it. You kind of look chubby, Lena insulted him.

Shut up! Luther defended his brother.

What did you say? Lena arched an eyebrow.

You heard me, Luther retorted.

Alexis nodded her head as she watched her sergeants argue. It was good to be home.

The sound of a horn was blown. Alexis knew what that meant. The Defender 11 had arrived. The machine was a beautiful work of art. It was white and blue. The Battle Ship's crest of Citrus was engraved on its metal surface.

The nautical vessel was a war machine, designed to obliterate the enemy. Its weapons were concealed in hidden compartments. It was a weapon of demolition, a threat to anyone who opposed peace. The sheer size of the ship was intimidating. It could accommodate ten-thousand men from Citrus. Most would consider it a risk to even stay on such a ship. However, to Alexis, this was home. This was all she knew her entire life; it was her safety.

Captain, are you coming? Lena tapped Alexis on her shoulder. Trinity, Luther, and Maxillas went on deck carrying their duffel bags.

Yes, I am, Alexis said.

What were you thinking about? Lena asked.

It's good to be back. Alexis smiled at Lena.

Yes, it is, Lena agreed with Alexis.

Lena? Alexis said.

Yes? Lena answered.

Where is Jax? She noticed that one of the Sergeants was missing.

I don't know. Lena shrugged her shoulders.

Alexis arched an eyebrow. That was strange. Jax was Lena's boyfriend. They always came together. Did something happen? Having a relationship in Citrus was against regulations and the foundation that it was set on. Emotions only got in the way; there was no point in sentiments. Working together was tough, without the added complication of being in a relationship.

Alexis did not press further questions. From the expression on Lena's face, Alexis knew Lena did not want to talk about it. They hopped on board. Alexis felt the excitement course through her veins. To be back in service was wonderful. This was her life; making a difference, one day at a time.

So Captain, you never told me about your holiday, Lena said.

It was quiet, Alexis said.

That's because you lock yourself in that apartment of yours. You should visit me sometime. Trust me it will be... Lena narrowed her eyes.

Alexis looked in front and saw Jax approaching. He looked down as he walked toward Alexis and Lena.

Captain Creed. He saluted Alexis.

Sergeant Green, Jax said and saluted Lena. His tan cheeks were a pale shade of red.

Sergeant Henry. Lena looked away.

There was an uncomfortable silence.

I have to get going and unpack. I will see you later, Captain Creed. Lena saluted Alexis and walked away.

Jax looked away sadly.

He ran his hands through his golden blonde hair. He was a good-looking man. He had soft blue eyes and a strong jaw. He was tall and muscular. Military training paid off.

That was awkward. Jax rubbed the back of his neck.

Indeed it was. What's going on? Did something happen? Alexis asked concerned. Jax looked around cautiously making sure it was just the two of them. He cleared his throat.

I messed up, Captain, Jax confessed.

What did you do now, Jax? Alexis said.

Jax has a habit of messing up, Alexis thought.

It was a long holiday. Lena went to see her family. I never heard from her in two weeks. I had a little fun while she was away. I sort of had a one-night stand with a stranger out at some random club. I was drunk; I didn't know what I was doing, Jax admitted.

Alexis crossed her arms. She was not surprised. Jax was a catch and he knew it. Sometimes he used that to his advantage. At twenty-six years old, he still had a lot of maturing to do.

How did Lena find out? Alexis asked.

I told her, I couldn't keep it from her, Jax said.

You did the right thing, Alexis said.

I don't think I did. She hates me. She won't even talk to me, Captain. What should I do? Jax questioned his superior.

Well, the only thing you can do is wait for her to forgive you. These things take time. It's going to be a while before she trusts you again. Wounds of the heart are hard to heal, Alexis advised him.

I made a mistake, Jax said sombrely.

We all make mistakes, but what is important is that we learn from them. Lena cares about you a lot, Jax. If she does take you back, treat her right. You have a good woman, Alexis said.

True. Jax gazed at Alexis with a solemn expression on his face.

You are a good man, Jax. You just need to make better decisions. Once you do, everything will work out for the better. Alexis gave him a firm nod.

Jax's eyes lit up. No matter what, his captain always encouraged him.  He walked towards her and embraced her. The hug startled her. She never hugged him back.

Thank you, Captain Creed, Jax said.

You're welcome, Seargent Henry. Now get off me, Alexis ordered.

These surprise hugs were annoying her. He laughed then let her go.

I have to go settle down, Alexis said.

Okay. See you, Captain. Jax waved at her.

She walked through the extensive corridors of The Defender 11 and finally made it to the captain quarters. She missed her room. It was spacious with a big king-sized bed and a desk at the corner of her room to get her work done.

It was time for her to get dressed in her uniform, her favourite part of the day. Alexis unzipped her duffel bag and unpacked her clothes and neatly put them in her drawer. She placed Hector's picture on her desk and picked a brown folder from it.

She pulled out a gold paper. It contained the 58 Decrees of Citrus.  It was a document explaining Citrus regulations in detail. Alexis sped read through it and put it down.

I'm home, Hector. She smiled at his picture.

Walking to her wardrobe, she got dressed in her uniform. She loved the colour of it, blue and white. She wore her white blouse and then her navy blue blazer with gold epaulettes. She placed five gold stars on her blazer indicating her position as a captain.

Lastly, Alexis put on her white pants; the design of the whole uniform very chic. She hastily slid on her boots and walked to the mirror. Placing her hat on her head, she was now fully dressed in her uniform.

Alexis headed towards the door and left the captain's quarters.

Two of her colleagues greeted her while she walked down the corridors of the ship. They saluted her and she did the same. Now headed for the Information Centre of the ship, she had to look at her schedule for the day. She had been informed that Citrus was getting new recruits. There was no need for new faces. She was fine with her team. Alexis hated explaining the regulations to a new recruit; the process was long and quite complex. Citrus was a powerful army.  To become a member meant that you were strong and able to fight terror around the world.

The steel doors of the Information Centre slid open. Alexis was annoyed to see that she was not the only occupant. Lena and Jax were in a heated argument.

Lena, can we talk this through? I don't know what you want me to do to show you how sorry I am, Jax said. He ran his hand through his blonde hair as he looked at his ex-girlfriend.

No. She avoided his gaze.

Why can’t we get back together? Jax pleaded with her.

You cheated on me, Jax. Not once, but several times. All I ever asked for was commitment. You need to figure out what you want, Lena said.

I know what I want. I want you...  

Am I interrupting something? Alexis interrupted before it got out of hand.

Oh Captain, I didn't see you there, Jax said and rubbed the back of his head and blushed.

Sorry, Captain. Lena saluted her.

You two need to work out your issues, but do not do that here when we have to work. You should have sorted your problems during the break. Whatever happened during the break should stay there. I need you two to stay focused. Your duties must be your priority. I hope that is understood? Alexis asked.

Yes, Captain, Jax said and saluted her. 

He strode out of the Information Centre.

Alexis walked to the desk situated in the centre of the Information Centre to read the newspaper.

Thanks for getting me out of that. He always bothers me. I wonder why I said yes to that guy. He is such a jerk. Lena sat down beside Alexis.

Well, you knew what you were getting yourself into when you went for Jax, Alexis replied. She was brutally honest.

Alexis continued to read the newspaper on the desk. Lena mentioned once how she liked the fact that Jax was such a bad boy. A lot of men on the ship fancied Lena, too bad she chose the wrong one.

I know, but can you blame me? He said he loved me. How could I resist?  Honestly, I wish I was like you. You don't need a man to keep you going, Captain. It's all about Citrus with you. It's your life. Don't you want a little romance? Lena asked.

How am I supposed to answer that question, Seargent Green? Alexis said. She made no attempt to hide her annoyance in her voice.

I'm just curious, Captain. I have never seen you with a man. Have you ever had a boyfriend?  Have you ever been in love? Have you ever ....

Seargent Green, enough. Alexis put her hand in the air and stopped Lena before she went further.

Alexis knew where this conversation was heading. One thing Alexis avoided at all costs was talking about her personal life. Opening up was something she was not comfortable with.

Come on, Captain. Just answer the question, Lena said with a pout on her lips.

I’m focused on Citrus, Alexis said firmly.

Interesting. Lena put her hand on her chin thoughtfully.

Let's get back to work, Alexis ordered.

Yes, Captain, Lena said.

Oh yeah, before I forget, the Colonel said I should inform you about the new recruit. He is already on board, Lena stated.

On board? You are joking right, why I was not informed about this? Alexis asked.

I don't know. You know the Colonel. He can be very secretive at times, Lena said.

This is interesting. Do you have any background information on the new recruit? Alexis asked.

No, I don't. The Colonel said you should go to his office immediately. Lena nodded at Alexis.

Thank you, Alexis said.

You're welcome, Captain, Lena replied.

Alexis stood up and walked to the Colonel’s office. She turned at the end of the corridor and walked to the large door. His name

‘Topher Roy McGregor’ was imprinted on it in gold.  She pulled off her hat and knocked on the door.

***

Colonel McGregor quietly observed the man who sat opposite of him.  

So why did you decide to join Citrus? The Colonel asked.

I have done a lot of bad things in my life. I figured that Citrus could change that. I could possibly make a difference, preferably a good one.

So you think by joining Citrus you can change things for the greater good? That is very compelling.

Yes, I do. You see, Colonel; I witnessed what war does to people. It changes them. I am a victim of the war that happened so long ago. I want to make a difference and I will.

You make it sound as if it's so easy? The colonel shrugged his shoulders.

It's never easy, but I am a determined man. Determination takes you places.

The Colonel chuckled. There was a knock on the door.

Come in, Colonel McGregor said.

Alexis walked in. Her face was calm as she turned to look at the Colonel.

"Oh, Captain Creed. You have come just in time for the interview. This is our new recruit, Bronté Seth Ambrose."

Alexis stood beside the Colonel and took a good look at the new recruit. Her heart drummed against her chest.

She remembered his eyes; those eyes that made her feel powerless. He had a cold toothy grin plastered on his face.

She took a deep breath while staring into his hazel globes. A shiver ran down her spine.

Memories of her past flashed before her eyes.  She was a child again. Weak and unable to protect the family she loved dearly.

Mother, Father, is this him? Is this the man who took you away from me? Alexis thought.  

Are you alright? Bronté asked. Confusion was written on his sharp features.

You! Alexis yelled.

You know me? Bronté arched a thick eyebrow.

Alexis pulled out her gun and pointed it straight at his face. Her finger was on the trigger.  The Colonel was on his feet, he put his hand on her gun. He was astonished by Alexis’s abrupt change of behaviour.

Captain, what are you doing? Colonel McGregor asked.

Colonel this man... Alexis’s voice was caught in her throat.

This man killed my family! she said.

Stand down, Captain! Colonel McGregor yelled at her.

Killed your family? How odd I don't remember doing... Bronté said cluelessly.

Shut your mouth! You deserve to die! Alexis yelled at him.

Captain, stand down! Colonel McGregor said once again.

Are you talking about the war that wiped the people of Sapphire? I'm sorry to say this, but you have got the wrong man. My father fought in that war. You are probably talking about him. Sadly, I look like him. He made a lot of enemies during his life. I suffer because his enemies confuse me with him.

He could tell she was from Sapphire from her dark hair