Unity: The Kingdom, #3

By Cameron Kielb

In the action-packed finale of The Kingdom, Mox explores his father's fabled Kingdom and must learn to grow his powers if he hopes to thwart Zaffin and the Ceftin army from overtaking the world. All the while, slippery friendships and past relationships bring hard choices.

After suffering humiliating defeat from the Genos, Brand and Nikki must escape the confines of the only home they've ever known before falling victim to an uncertain death. The Free World-- a lawless badlands run by the powerful Purple Riders awaits their escape, ready to swallow them up. That is, if they can even make it there.

Ultimately, Mox, Brand, and Nikki, must overcome years of animosity and unite the people if there's going to be any hope of survival in this epic conclusion. The challenges are vast, and the sacrifices great.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cameron Kielb
• Release date: Aug 28, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393953555

Cameron Kielb

Cameron Kielb has published 'Hidden City' and 'A Solemn Truth' in 'The Kingdom Series'. He enjoys writing and reading before working as a Registered Nurse. He writes fiction/fantasy and enjoys incorporating today's problems into his work. He is currently working on book three in 'The Kingdom' series as well as short stories. He lives in the Chicago land area with his wife, daughter, son, and two dogs.

Book preview

Chapter 1

T

HE WORLD SPUN and Mox burrowed his head within his hands, hoping to dampen the storm within it. He had found his father after all these years. Well, really his father had found him and saved him—but still. His journey from Lake Ribose and his mentor Burt had deposited him in the hidden city of Guillan. There, Mox had made alliances with the local young adults who belonged to a rebellious fighters’ guild. He had managed to break into a maximum-security power station that, while protecting the town, had stripped the life and energy from the people—it was the real ‘disease’ that plagued Earth.

And then Protec Four. Saving Nikki. Meeting Cecé. Defeating the monster Hain—that had at least felt good. As did uniting the two polarized groups and launching the coordinated attack on the city. Mox had momentarily felt like a hero. Indeed, he had saved the people of Guillan from the station, liberated the captured slaves, and saved his good friend Nikki.

If only it had been that simple. The puzzle had been much larger than he had realized. He wasn’t just missing one piece of the picture. No, it seems he had only seen a fraction of the truth—the truth that turned out to be very solemn indeed.

Once in motion, Vic had revealed his identity as a Ceftin beast sent from above. How helpless Mox had felt when he had been suspended in the air watching Vic’s comrades descend the skies. Helpless and stupid… Thank God for Cecé.

So much blood. So many tears. All his fault. He had been defeated and ready to die when his father, Raylin, saved them from the Ceftin army. Raylin had promptly whisked Mox from Guillan to the fabled Heaven City of Gondoi.

Mox sat here in Gondoi replaying the events repeatedly in his head. It made it hard to see the spectacle in front of him. He reflected on these events as he sat on a bench on an earthy red-bricked walkway near houses with stained-glass windows. Here in Gondoi there was no sign of the creeping chill that had begun to infest Guillan. From down the path, he heard the chatter of voices, though he couldn’t visualize their source.

Mox was in no mood to socialize, so he stood and exited town through a stone archway, and nearly lost his breath. As he walked through the archway, he received the most magnificent view of a flowering field that dropped out of sight. Below, an ocean extended to the horizon until it shook hands with the sky.

The scent of the blossoming flowers tickled Mox’s nose, bringing with it an odd sense of calm. As the bricks wore out, the path continued with hard dirt and he followed it further from town. Nestled along a high mountain, Mox followed the natural curve with the sparkling ocean to this right. After nearly twenty minutes of hiking, he stopped and wiped his brow with a cloth from his pocket. A sweat drop flirted dangerously close to stinging his eye. He welcomed it though. It reminded him of the simple days when he had explored the surroundings of Lake Ribose. How he had loved to hike.

Mox returned the cloth to his pocket and felt something hard. He fingered it from its hiding place and pulled out the gold ‘G’ coin he had come to loathe. He had forgotten it lay hidden in his pocket after all this time. If only he could crush it into a fine dust.

This stupid coin reminded him of the beginning of his journey. A time fraught with shattered happiness and love with a special girl named Kailla…

Turtle

Leaving Lake Ribose hadn’t been easy. It had required navigating the surrounding mountains that led further inland. Mox’s magic had helped. On the other side of these mountains, after a few days of travel, he stumbled upon a small town that marked the first sign of civilization he had seen since his departure. Starving, he walked boldly through the street looking for somewhere to eat. It would be nice not to have to snack on nuts or try catching his own food. A good hunter, he was not.

As he walked through town, he received a few strange looks. Newcomers must not have been common here. Mox didn’t care. He entered the first diner he found. ‘Papa Jibb’s – little town with big eats’ according to a sign hanging on a banner inside a window.

Here, at Papa Jibb’s, Mox first saw Kailla. He ate outside in the nice weather, watching the local townspeople pass by. Kailla had been talking across the street with an elderly man, while animatedly waving her hands. It wasn’t until she finished talking with the elder that she turned and saw Mox. Then she smiled… that smile.

I don’t recognize your cute face, she said, walking across to Mox. Mox looked behind him. No one there.

Yes, I’m talking to you. Where are you from?

I… I’m from Lake Ribose, Mox said, unable to pry his eyes away from the beautiful girl. It occurred to him that he hadn’t blinked yet, so he forced his eyes down into a slow, awkward blink. Could a blink be awkward?

I don’t think I’ve been there, but I love lakes. I love swimming. Even more, I like just lying in the shallow water, letting the waves flow around my skin. I’m Kailla by the way. May I sit down? She gestured next to him.

I agree, Mox said.

That I can sit down? Kailla clarified, her smile ever holding.

No. I mean… yes, of course, you can sit with me. I meant that I agree about the lake. It’s relaxing.

Kailla’s smile broadened. What’s not to disagree with. If you were to say I hate the lake, I would call you a liar and walk right on by.

Mox was dumbfounded. Part of him felt like saying okay but somehow that didn’t feel right. This woman wearing a delicate yellow dress may have been bold, even a bit bizarre, but Mox wanted her to stay. He deferred comment and nodded his head.

Kailla kept talking. It’s nice to have a new face to look at. What brings you out this way?

Mox took a bite of pasta. Customarily he wouldn’t feel inclined to share his thoughts with others. Growing up different to others had a way of teaching you to keep things to yourself. Still, he looked at her and they locked eyes for a moment.

I… I… I’m on a quest to find my father, Mox said.

Kailla tilted her head to the side. Your father? Where did he go? She smiled, then added, Dumb question. Obviously, you don’t know. I mean, when did he leave? Why did he leave?

Mox thought about it for a second. Because he had more important things to do than loving his family? Apparently, he was out saving the world. Beyond that, Mox had no clue. Hell, his father could have been somewhere flopped over a barstool for all he knew.

He left a long time ago, said Mox. My mom told me he had fought to save other people.

Kailla bowed her head. I’m sorry he left you. It’s so sad when issues become more important than family, she said bitterly. What are you hoping to accomplish by finding him? Why not just make a life for yourself somewhere and be happy?

Mox gazed up at the beautiful blue sky. A lazy white cloud hid the sun, but not for long. With its outline nearing the edge of the swirly white cotton-ball, high in the sky, he said, Because, as bitter as I am about him leaving, I get this sense that he’s a part of something much bigger. Something important. Something that I need to be involved in and help. Does that make sense?

The sun peeked from its hiding place, lighting up Kailla’s round face. Yes, I understand. Just… don’t be let down if it turns out that you concocted this importance to keep a positive outlook on your dad.

Mox bit his tongue. That thought had formed in the deep crevices of his mind, but he normally kept it at bay. You sound like you speak from experience, he said.

Kailla nodded. I learned a long time ago to accept the truth. For me and my family, it means that my parents need to travel for months on end to provide for themselves and me. Look around, she said, pointing out beyond the nearby street. Nothing but farmland. We don’t own a farm though, no. My parents travel to nearby towns obtaining tools and equipment for the workers. It’s their contribution that allows them to live here.

Mox nodded. Are they away now? he asked.

Yes, Kailla confirmed but her eyes didn’t match the smile she had projected with her lips, a look Mox understood all too well. It looked like the same smile that he would give when explaining his father’s absence.

Kailla continued, I would love to hear more about you. I think it’s so fascinating to hear about other people’s experiences. Especially those that come from elsewhere. What’s it like where you grew up—Lake Ribbot?

Ribose, Mox corrected, smiling. It’s quiet, kind of like here. Basically, just a small village of houses scattered around a lake. A beautiful lake though. I used to love watching the sunrise over it.

It sounds wonderful, Kailla said. How did you travel here?

Mox thought about his trip through the mountains. Truthfully, it had been hell. Dark and scary. In those dark tunnels that dissected the mountain, he had been watched and then ambushed by magical sources. They were so ghostly and ragged that Mox suspected they lived there. He had managed to use his magical powers to push them into the walls of the tunnel and knock them out. He had run like hell after that. It was the first time he had truly used his magical abilities to protect himself. It was terrifying yet somehow the exhilaration of the fight left him craving for more. However, Mox didn’t feel like sharing the whole story with this pretty girl.

I hiked. Through the dark mountains and vast field lands until I came upon this place. This is the first civilized place I’ve encountered since my departure.

Those mountains sound scary! Kailla exclaimed. She widened her eyes, which only accentuated their beauty. Please, tell me more.

There, looking into her big beautiful brown eyes, with her big pink lips half open, eagerly listening to him, Mox had felt his heart slide. Like nothing he had ever felt before. Sure, he had met other girls that had been attractive, but this was something more. His rapidly beating heart told him so.

I would be happy to, he responded, despite his initial intention.

Kailla scooched her chair closer to him, an act Mox found pleasing. Then he began his story from the beginning, which was appropriate as, indeed, he was beginning to fall in love. Head over heels.

They talked for hours. After Mox finished his piece, Kailla did most of the talking, but Mox happily listened. At this point, he would do anything she asked.

Finally, she did ask him to do something—to be her guest at the season’s beginning celebration and dance to bring good luck to the crops. Everyone in town celebrated at the main square with lively dancing and drinks. Mox had never danced before but she assured him he would be fine. She said it, so he believed it.

Turtle

Mox met Kailla a few hours later at a small house. He was in his best clothes, which were still tattered from use. She looked him up and down and laughed.

Mox, you can make anything look good. You’re very handsome, but we’re going to need to do a little better for tonight. C’mon inside. My brother left years ago to start his own family, but he left a lot of nice clothes behind. And your hair…

What about my hair? Mox challenged, rubbing his shaggy brown hair. He had spent more time than normal trying to comb it. Guess it wasn’t good enough.

Just needs a little bit of work. I can help with that too. You trust me with scissors to your head?

Not at all, Mox teased.

I wouldn’t either, she winked. But it will be good, I promise.

Kailla worked methodically, cutting long locks of hair before blending everything together to create a very neat, trim appearance. Looking in the mirror, Mox raised his eyebrows, admiring himself. The dark-blue button-up she had lent him, together with a nice pair of khaki slacks, completed the image. The pants were a tad large, but nothing a belt wouldn’t fix.

Now that’s better! Kailla said, looking him over. Now, I must get dressed. You set the bar pretty high.

Thanks, Mox chuckled, watching the bottom of her yellow dress wave around her knees as she departed. In her absence, Mox strolled from the room she had cut his hair in, presumably her brother’s old room, and walked down the hall. Hanging on the wall were pictures of Kailla with, Mox assumed, her parents and two brothers. Her smile stole the picture in each frame. It occurred to him that he had no clue of her age. He would have guessed early twenties, but it was often very hard to tell, especially with people like Kailla.

Mox wound up in a small living room and sat on the couch waiting. Kailla finally came in wearing a fashionable red dress that hugged her body. The bottom came down to a few inches above her knees. She had pulled her hair up into elaborate curls and swoops that framed her face nicely.

Wow, Mox said, astounded. Where I set the bar… you doubled it.

Kailla’s face flushed pink. You’re too kind Mox. C’mon, let’s go.

Do you live here by yourself? Mox asked.

Not normally. This is my parents’ house but they’re away on business. I think they plan on seeing my bro’ on their way back.

Would they care that I’m here? How old are you, anyway?

Fourteen, Kailla said with a sly smile. Mox’s face dropped. I’m kidding! You don’t actually think I look that, do you? Before Mox could answer, she clarified. I’m twenty-three. And no, they won’t care that you’re here. I have my own place a block over, but it’s just a small room above a local shop. The owner’s letting me rent it for next to nothing.

That came as a relief to Mox. Kailla was merely house sitting, probably enjoying the luxuries of space and nice things that are easy to become unaccustomed to.

Kailla looped her arm around his as they strolled the streets. Perhaps a tad forward, but sometimes it felt nice when things were just easy. No deciphering feelings. People crowded the street up ahead. A group of middle-aged men blasted out catchy songs from their stringed instruments.

I love this festival, Kailla said.

Tables lined the road, managed by families. Some contained little goodies, others had drinks and food. At one booth, they tried a glass of aromatic purple liquid. It tasted delicious and alcoholic. They took one more and proceeded to the next table.

What is all this stuff? Mox asked after trying what tasted like an almond, but with the texture of a cashew.

We specialize in hybrid food and drinks. It’s how this town stays above water. Most of these people are actually quite wealthy, Kailla explained. They’ve been working hard trying to perfect what will be this year’s feature product. Sometimes it can make or break the year. If you’re around tomorrow, they will ask for follow-up opinions.

If? Mox said.

Kailla smiled. Not her normal, alluring smile though—it seemed sad. I don’t have any expectations of newcomers. Especially those I just met.

Well I don’t plan on going anywhere, Mox surprised himself by saying. His original plan had been a one-night stop to refuel.

Kailla’s eyes lit up. I love this song! Mox hoped part of her eyes lighting up had been his doing, too. C’mon, let’s dance, she said, grabbing his wrist and pulling him behind her.

A small crowd gathered directly in front of the band of people. Some younger adults, many middle-aged couples, and a few endearing old-timers bobbing side to side with their long-time lover. Kailla stole the show—twisting, shaking, spinning throughout. Mox had fun doing his best to mirror her movements. He felt silly, knew he must look silly, but didn’t care.

They danced on and on into the night. As the evening turned to night, talks of the bonfire emerged. They were having a hard time lighting it though, due to recent rain. The faces of the townspeople turned from smiles to frowns at the prospect of missing the big finish.

C’mon, Mox said as he pulled Kailla. I have a knack for getting things started. Kailla didn’t argue.

The bonfire pit was a large piece of empty land stacked high with branches and other flammables. It would be a gigantic blaze. There were only a few stragglers left nearby, still not ready to give up on the night. They were all mostly consumed in conversation.

If Mox planned to help, now would be the time. He had to be careful though. Burt had been clear that many people didn’t like magical folk. They were scared, and with good reason.

Stay back a little, Mox cautioned, walking close to the wood pile. Reaching forward, he produced a thin spark within his hands and flicked it into the wood pile. A small flash popped, but then fizzled out. Trying again, he continued making the spark bigger until it remained lit for a minute. It took a few tries, but he got it. Replicating the sparks, he littered the bottom of the pile with many hot flashes. Smoke rose as the fire continued to grow.

You did it! Kailla said, peeping over his shoulder and nearly scaring him into the wood pile. Mox’s skin continued to glow. You’ve been keeping a secret, I see! she added knowingly. She didn’t seem mad or alarmed though.

Did anyone else see? Mox asked.

Doubtful, Kailla said, looking around. You don’t want people knowing?

No! I don’t necessarily hide it, but the fewer people that know, the better. Not everyone likes those who are different.

It’s a shame really. Why can’t people just accept one another for who they are? Kailla grabbed Mox’s hands. You don’t have to worry about that with me. She leaned in and kissed him. Mox embraced the kiss, as a funny tingly feeling shot up his back. Her lips tasted like cherries as she continued to kiss him, hugging her body close to his. A different, but just as good, sensation started just below the belt.

The increasing heat of the fire finally made them stop. Soon the heat blazed hot enough to singe the hairs off Mox’s body, and he withdrew from the kiss.

Getting a little hot, he said.

Yeah it is, Kailla winked. Before Mox could clarify, she added, Yeah, yeah. I know. Everyone! The fire’s been started. Wahoo!

People nearby cheered in excitement as the fire roared, casting hot light on the merry people nearby. Mox had saved the night. They sat by the warmth for another few hours, occasionally stealing a kiss, but mostly just talking.

In what seemed like a flash, they were upstairs in Kailla’s loft with her hip-hugging red dress peeled aside.

Turtle

Mox shook his head violently to shake the memory free. It made his heart throb. The spiral of events that happened afterward, which ultimately led him to this stupid gold coin clutched in his hand is what he hated most.

Mox pushed forward, determined to find an appropriate place to ditch this memento of chaos. Finally, he found it at a bridge connecting the land over a raging river that exited from within the mountains. To the other side of the bridge, out toward the ocean, is where the water spat out into a massive waterfall. Mox looked over the side of the bridge and watched the misty current fall from sight.

Perfect. He had already used the coin as instructed and thus had no reason to keep it except to torture himself. Though he may deserve it, if he wanted to move forward, it had to go. Over the edge out of sight and washed away by the forces of nature, forever.

Mox held the coin up, the sun glinting in his eyes. I’m sorry, he said and flipped it aside.

Did the coin turn a deep red as it fell? No, surely that was his imagination or fear… For the red reminded him of two eyes he had come to loathe. The eyes of Zaffin.

Chapter 2

T

HE FLOOR SMELLED of rotten fish, mixed with dog feces, and coated with grime stubborn to even the greatest of elbow grease treatments. Still, Brand scrubbed on hands and knees with a rag. Sweat dripped from his face, falling until it splashed the floor. He quickly dabbed the drops on the floor, then his face, adding to the soot already there. What did he care about getting dirty?

He sat up and caught his breath. His blue jumpsuit appeared as dirty and tired as he felt. His break had to be due soon. Hopefully.

No rest for the wicked, right buddy?

Brand didn’t bother locating the voice. Damn straight, he replied to the dead priest, William, his ever-present ghost.

That’s a good boy, Mother Goose mocked from a different corner.

Mother Goose—Sue, was another frequent companion these days. He didn’t mind anymore, except the constant reminder that he had pumped his best friend’s mom full of lead when she had tried to take over. Brand returned to his knees and moved a few feet forward.

You get what you deserve. I accept that, Brand replied.

Eh. I don’t know if I’m buying this. Are you trying to convince me or you? Mother Goose asked. And don’t downplay what you did. You and your self-righteous group didn’t just contribute to the fall of Guillan. You caused its massacre!

You’re lucky the Genos left you alive, really. You didn’t deserve that, William added.

His tone resembled a teaching father. No son, you didn’t do your chores so no playing with friends today. Maybe next time you’ll do your work, huh? Brand could still hear his father’s voice in his ears. He wished it were him in this room with him rather than these two dead losers. As far as Brand knew, though, Norton remained safe under the bar turned sanctuary, Tocrit’s.

Yeah, but what about Ellen? William asked. Both he and Mother Goose had an annoying way of pointing out the negatives.

Brand had tried to resist. Briefly. Everyone had been too exhausted after fighting off the Ceftin to stop the Genos. They had been ruthless. No warnings. No mercy. Shots ended life as well as the elation of victory. It didn’t even take long. Ellen hadn’t been killed but she had been ripped from Brand’s arms as he had toppled to the ground. From there they dragged her away out of sight. She had screamed his name repeatedly until the man dragging her smacked her. Brand protested, resulting in a hard knock to his head, causing concussion.

He had woken up here. That was weeks ago.

Another drop splashed the ground that wasn’t his sweat. Brand blinked but the tears continued in an uncontrollable stream—and not for the first time since his capture.

Oh Jeez. Not this again, William said. It’s so pathetic.

Brand located William leaning on the wall and fired back, This is all my fault. And I don’t know what happened to my friends. To Nikki…

William made a farting sound with his lips.

Now, now, Mother Goose chimed in. You boys behave.

I will when he does, Brand said, pointing at William. He started it.

Aww shut up, William protested. You’re a tattle tale.

Brand stood up and walked over to William. Oh yeah? he said and punched at William’s head. William ducked and Brand connected with the wall. Pain seared into his knuckles. Damn it! He shook his hand out.

Mother Goose grimaced. How dumb are you?

Brand felt the rage swelling from his gut. Before he could reply, the door opened behind him.

Get back to work! the Geno barked.

Why not just kill me? Brand said bitterly.

Oh really? the man asked. Brand braced for the whip he knew would come. He heard the snap of air and felt a harsh lash strike his back. I bet these folks will kill you. Brand turned around and five scrappy men walked in, dressed in the same blue one-piece he had on. The Geno smiled. I’ll leave now, he said, smirked, and exited.

The five men slowly advanced. Brand didn’t recognize them, but the room remained dim and the context different.

The biggest man asked, Who were you talking to, freak?

Myself, Brand said, raising his fists. What’s this about?

Us guys decided that it isn’t right. Our friends and family are dead while you were spared, and we won’t stand for it. The large men advanced further. So, we made a deal.

You made a deal with them? Brand asked. C’mon guys, we’re on the same side.

Not when we’re through with you. The man winked.

Brand shuddered. Fine. He stepped forward and snapped a jab to the man’s head. Pain seared in his hand. Stupid William.

The man grunted and stepped back. Brand had hoped for a bigger reaction. Instead the man’s eyes looked as if they would pop from his eyes like champagne corks. Enough! he said. They advanced and two men grabbed Brand’s arms. The big guy wound up and unleashed a series of punches to Brand’s entire body.

Brand keeled over before being pushed to the ground. His head slammed the freshly scrubbed ground and he felt his consciousness slipping. He went into a fetal position as they continued to kick mercilessly. He felt a rib crack and cried out.

Through the men’s huffs, Mother Goose spoke out—her voice tunneling into his head. Feel their rage. Make it your own, she hissed. These are the people you were trying to save. Remember that. Not everyone deserves to be protected. Make it through this and you make sure they pay for it.

Brand opened his eyes and took note of who loomed above him. I’ll remember, he muttered.

What did you say? The big guy stopped.

I said, I’ll remember you guys. Brand smiled.

I doubt you’ll remember us in hell, the man said, winding up to kick.

Stop! someone yelled from the door. It’s our turn. You don’t get to do this all by yourself.

The attackers stopped and turned. Brand glimpsed two sets of feet approaching.

Who the hell are you guys? the big attacker asked.

Two people led astray by that trickster. Brand thought the voice sounded familiar. Let us finish the job! The man approached rapidly and kicked Brand in the gut.

Brand widened his eyes. Kyl and Matthew stood above him. Uh oh, he uttered.

The big guy smiled. But I’ve been looking forward to this.

Matthew replied as he looked down on Mox. Seems like you’ve had your turn. Now unless you want to start a war with our crew, I think your fun is over. It’s our turn with this piece of shit.

I’ve had my fill, one of the other big guys said.

Fair enough, the attacker acknowledged. Hold nothing back.

Kyl laughed and pointed to the man as if he had heard the funniest joke ever.

Very well! the man said, perhaps our groups can form an alliance. It’s prison mentality now, you know.

Kyl winked. We’ll talk.

Fine, the man sighed, leading his group out the door.

Now you! Kyl yelled loudly. He paused. Are you okay? he whispered after the others had gone.

Brand took a deep breath. No.

Let’s get you out of here, Kyl muttered. C’mon. He threw clothes at Brand’s feet. We’re all escaping.

In broad daylight? Brand objected.

Sun’s been down for hours, man. They got you all sorts of messed, huh? Matthew said.

Mother Goose started to snicker but then stopped. Is that my baby? she asked.

Brand ignored the comment and hastily put the common clothes on. They were a bit baggy, but they would do. Thereafter they exited the room and tiptoed down a series of halls. When they nearly collided with a Geno security officer, Kyl managed to get a hand over his mouth and, together, he and Matthew subdued him to the ground. The officer’s name badge read Bubamal.

What type of name is that? Matthew scoffed. Brand shrugged and they continued on their way. They passed a hallway that led to one lone door chained with an absurd number of locks. They opted not to approach and continued to the exit.

Matthew’s face looked cross. Why do we even bother with doors? he questioned as the door rattled firmly in place.

There’s a bathroom down the hall with a window, Kyl said and pointed. We’ll have to try that… we can’t be caught here.

They poured into the small bathroom and closed the door. There was barely room for the vanity, urinal, and stall the bathroom housed. Faint light flickered through a thin window perched high on the wall.

Do you think we can fit through that? Matthew asked skeptically.

I was thinking the same thing, Brand replied.

We can squeeze, Kyl said. I know it.

Maybe your flat ass, Matthew said. I’m not so sure…

I’ll push you out if I have to, Kyl said.

I don’t see any other choice, Brand agreed. Window doesn’t open. Needs to be broken.

Then we break it, Kyl said with a nod.

Brand feared the consequential noise. We’ll have to be quick, he said, then reached over to a towel rack nearby and, after a few attempts, ripped it from the wall. He approached the wall with the window and stretched up to see whether he could reach. Pain ripped across his side, radiating up to his chest and he abruptly stopped.

What’s wrong? Matthew asked, putting an arm around him.

It’s my rib. I think it’s broken, said Brand.

Damn it, Kyl muttered. Climbing out of here is going to be almost impossible.

We’ll have to push him out, Matthew said, glancing at the door.

Yup, Kyl agreed.

Brand felt his face flush. I’m sorry guys. Both Kyl and Matthew waved it off and they all approached the wall.

Once in position, Kyl smashed the glass, sending shards crackling to the ground. Let’s move, he said hastily, sweeping the perimeter of the sill to clean the edges. Someone yelled from within the building.

Kyl and Matthew both cupped their hands and Brand stepped into their hold. They propelled him up the wall and Brand hooked his arm out the window. Pain seared through his chest again, but he bit his tongue. With their help he wriggled through the window. A final push to his feet helped squeeze his butt through and he toppled out.

Though a brief fall, Brand contorted his body so that his shoulders absorbed his weight. It hurt but the adrenaline masked the pain. He scrambled to his feet and looked back up at the window where two more arms were already half out. Moments later, Matthew popped out from the window just as Brand had.

Brand used his body to help slow down Matthew’s descent. While it hurt, he enjoyed the feeling of being useful again. C’mon Kyl! Brand encouraged.

Two hands appeared but Brand heard the door inside burst open. Kyl screamed and his hands disappeared. Kyl! Brand shrieked.

The sound of grunts and thuds spilled from the window. Matthew glanced at Brand. Should we go? he asked. We can’t be caught out here if he’s been taken.

Give him another minute, Brand advised. C’mon Kyl, he muttered under his breath.

The noises subsided,