Haven: The Phoenix Curse, #5

By Debra Rose

Ali and Joss have found a refuge behind the walls of Dreamland, but soon learn that safety is only an illusion. Nowhere is safe, and Dreamland is the worst place they could be for the precious secret they hold.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Writing Roses
• Release date: Aug 3, 2021
• ISBN: 9781005258627

Debra Rose

Debra Rose is the author of The Phoenix Curse series, a bestseller in Amazon's post-apocalyptic and dystopian science fiction genre. Although she previously published under the pen name D.R. Johnson, all her new and current novels will be published under her full name. Debra is currently pursuing her bachelor's in arts at Southern New Hampshire University, and she lives in Texas with her husband and two children. Debra specializes in science fiction and the supernatural, although she has been known to stray into the realms of fantasy from time to time. Her books have graced the top of Amazon's bestseller lists and continue to captivate fans of the genre. Passionate about her craft, Debra continues to write enthralling stories that focus on character development during apocalyptic situations.

Book preview

The Phoenix Curse

Prologue

The woman sat in an uncomfortable chair, humming softly to herself as Mitchel Vance blustered around the room. He wasn't happy. Ellen kept a watchful eye on him, but she knew better than to intervene.

However, he was only a small part of Ellen's problems. It was the woman sitting at the other end of the table that made Ellen sweat. She was short, like Ellen, but half Ellen's size. With plenty of food here in Dreamland, Ellen wasn't sure why the woman refused to eat.

Entitled ass, Mitchel grumbled, but neither woman paid him any mind.

Eliza Douglas sat calmly at the head of the table, reading over a packet of paperwork Ellen had retrieved from the Dreamland base office earlier that morning. Eliza's eyes scanned each word as she read, absorbing it all while Mitchel continued to huff and pace. As much as Ellen tried to ignore him, her song grew increasingly louder and further off pitch, revealing her taut nerves. She stopped herself, took a deep breath, and started over.

Finally, Mitchel settled behind Eliza, standing to her side so he could peer over her shoulder. He had already read the packet front to back, so he crossed his arms over his chest in yet another show of impatience.

Ellen stared at the table, reinforcing her attempt to ignore him and focused on keeping her song even and soft. She admired Eliza's level of concentration; her ability to focus and ignore the frustrated man. She didn't know how Eliza was able to absorb the words in front of her, but she knew she was doing it. Ellen imagined she would have to read and reread the papers at least five times without Mitchel in the room to distract her. With him there, it would have been impossible.

Our days here are numbered, Mitchel said.

We still have some breathing room. Eliza broke her silence, although her nose was buried deep in the paperwork.

I'd guess a month, maybe less, Mitchel said. Whatever else he was about to say was cut off as Eliza turned to gaze at him over her shoulder. The slow, calculated movement carried a ton of weight, enough to calm Mitchel's irritated actions. With a deep breath, he moved to one of the chairs and took a seat.

Once Mitchel had settled, Eliza spoke, Any word from the lab on those blood samples?

No, Mitchel answered. We can't be sure of what Ellen heard.

Ellen frowned, her song stopping. Were they talking about her secret?

It's worth pursuing, Eliza said.

Pursuing? You mean putting her back up there?

That's part of it, Eliza said. Ellen's thoughts were swirling in her head. They couldn't know. She hadn't told that part. Eliza continued. I also have the keycard.

Mitchel paused, a look of consternation on his face. Ellen breathed a small sigh. They were talking about something else, but she wasn't sure what. The secret was safe.

You can't be thinking of sending her. She got caught bringing in supplies, Mitchel said.

That Ellen understood, and she glared at the man. Mitchel was insinuating she was the reason they were being kicked out, but he hadn't told her which way was safe to go. It was Mitchel's fault she was caught. Not hers. She had to tell Eliza.

No, of course not, Eliza said. I have someone else in mind to use the keycard.

Who? Mitchel asked incredulously. Eliza met him with an even stare, and after a moment, it became apparent she wasn't going to answer.

Could you give me a moment with Ellen alone? Eliza said.

Mitchel turned to face Ellen as he stood, his expression full of disapproval although he didn't seem surprised by the request. Without a word, he left, slamming the door behind him.

Eliza's gray eyes fell on Ellen, ramping up her already distraught nerves. Ellen began to babble. It wasn't my fault. Mitchel was the one who said to go down that hallway. He said it would be clear to bring--

I know, Eliza said, and the corner of her lips turned upwards slightly, coming close to what could be considered a smile. Even her face, although stern, softened. Ellen's mouth clamped shut, halting the slew of words, and Eliza continued. Mitchel can get a bit ahead of himself sometimes.

Eliza knew! She knew it wasn't Ellen's fault. Even if Eliza's cold eyes were boring a hole through her at the moment, Ellen felt vindicated. She settled back in her chair, unaware of the smug look that had taken over her features.

Do you and your... friend still talk? Eliza asked.

Ellen blinked in confusion. Her head tilted to the side as she considered the question. Ellen didn't have any other friends except for Mitchel and Eliza. Who could she mean?

I would like you to set up a meeting with him, Eliza said, a look of disgust crossing her face. A look Eliza reserved only for...

The Phoenix? Ellen said the word out loud before she could catch herself. Eliza hated that word, and Ellen realized her mistake as soon as Eliza's face soured.

The freak, Eliza corrected. Ellen's quick nod didn't do much to remove the scowl now glaring at her.

Yes, Ellen said. We still talk in the lunchroom sometimes. You want to meet the... freak?

Eliza refused to repeat herself. As soon as possible.

I'll go now, Ellen said, her stomach brushing against the table as she stood. It triggered a rumble, reminding Ellen it was almost lunch time. Suddenly, she was excited at the thought of eating. Sometimes the cafeteria created some delicious desserts despite their limited supplies.

As she started for the door, Eliza caught her attention one last time. Discreetly, Ellen.

Yes, ma'am, Ellen said with a firm nod. Discreet she could do as long as Mitchel Vance didn't get in the way.

1

Joss

I Helped

My knee nervously bounced up and down as I sat in the small room. I was unable to still it, listening to the gentle swish, swish, swish the fabric made with each movement. It was my only company at the moment.

The separation from Ali had been quick and unexpected. Before we had a chance to talk, Major Davis appeared with a plastered smile on his face and asked me to walk with him. I followed, not knowing what to expect. The walk ended with me in a Jeep driven by a soldier I didn't recognize. He wasn't exactly chatty while he drove me back to the base and left me alone in this closet of a room.

The room was stifling small, furnished with one chair and one table. No fancy one-way mirror adorned the wall, or anything else for that matter. It left me wondering what the purpose of the room was. I had scoffed, labeling it a closet out of spite, but found myself wondering if that wasn't far from the truth.

For over an hour I sat, focusing. Listening. I held my breath and found I could hear beyond the thin walls. People walked by often, but no one spoke. At least, not until double footsteps came thumping down the hall. My eyes were closed in concentration, but when I recognized Escobar's voice, they popped open.

Major Davis, Escobar said, and rushed footsteps ran to catch up with the other man.

Lieutenant, Major Davis returned the greeting. His steps slowed, allowing the larger man to catch up, but his tone was short and clipped. I closed my eyes again. Somehow, that helped increase my hearing ability. They were close, but not close enough for me to catch every word. When Escobar's voice returned to its normal level, I lost his first sentence in the footsteps as the two men started walking again. They drew closer, and his voice became clear.

He's young. Those words were the first I made out, and the last Escobar said. Major Davis remained silent for several seconds.

Lieutenant Escobar, the Major stated in a cold voice. Do not dare stand in front of me and ask for leniency. You are in no position. I highly suggest you get back to your boys and wait there. I will not vouch for you if you bring this shit up in front of Colonel Schinner.

My skin tingled as the blood ran cold beneath it. My heart thumped, trying to escape into my throat. I swallowed with what little moisture I had in my mouth and wiped my sweaty palms down my dirty pants.

Colonel Schinner?

Yes, sir, Lieutenant Escobar said, and a second later, his footsteps retreated. Davis stood silent on the other side of the door, but the blood rushing through my ears washed away any subtle noise I might have picked up. I couldn't calm down. By the time the door opened, I was taking deep breaths trying to still my crazy heartbeat.

Taylor, Davis greeted me coldly, a frown on his face.

Major Davis, I managed to respond without my voice cracking. With how dry my throat was, I considered that a win. However, I didn't stand. I was afraid my legs wouldn't be able to hold me up. He would have to settle for my straightened posture.

Davis's head drooped in thought as he studied me under his brow. The gray I remembered at his temples looked whiter today against his black hair. I couldn't hold my stiff posture for long and found myself slouching over the table again. It took a conscious effort to keep my nervous leg from twitching.

It seems I ran out of time, Davis said. I spent too much time grilling Escobar's squad. I apologize for that.

I straightened again, unsure of Davis's cryptic meaning. Despite his sincere apology, the rest of his words sounded ominous.

Out of time for what?

Colonel Schinner has arrived sooner than I expected.

Oh.

Come on, Taylor, Davis said, motioning me to stand. Time to get thrown in the tank with the other boys.

I stood slowly, testing my legs. I locked my knees as I straightened and let the fresh queasiness in my stomach die down before I tried a few nervous steps. Davis didn't seem to notice my discomfort as he had already turned to open the door. Somehow, I managed to find my footing without falling on my face and hurried after him.

Davis ushered me down a series of hallways that began to look vaguely familiar. When he stopped, I knew we stood in front of one of the mirror rooms. He held the door open for me, and I was surprised to meet several sets of eyes as I stepped through—all Escobar's men minus Diego.

I was surprised to see Elet standing at the door. He was the one that helped me, but he wasn't being questioned. He was there as the Phoenix lie detector. How the hell was this going to play out?

Balling my hands into fists to hide their tremble, I stumbled into a seat next to Jackson as Davis disappeared again, shutting the door behind him.

No one spoke. The tense atmosphere in the room didn't help my state of nervousness at all, but I considered it an improvement from being in solitude. I glanced up, meeting Jackson's eyes, and he gave me the slightest of nods. My eyes strayed to Overton beside him, and he nodded as well. Then I looked to Waltz, and finally McDaniel. All nodded in silent welcome. Yes, this was better.

I leaned forward, my chest pressing against the edge of the table with my hands under it. I clasped them together to stop the shaking. The nervousness didn't fade completely, but my confidence was bolstered by the other men in the room. It was better than sitting alone, but the waiting was still hell. Having company only helped so much. Also, the thought of this being my first meeting with Colonel Schinner terrified me.

Are they going to kick me out?

I had made peace with that thought when I stowed away in the truck, accepting the fact I might be cast out as punishment, but that didn't make being faced with it now any easier.

My knee began to bounce again, and I drew an annoyed glance from McDaniel across the table. It seemed every time I stopped, minutes later my leg would start again of its own accord. I eventually crossed my feet together and pushed them as far back underneath my chair as I could. It was uncomfortable, but it stopped the nervous jitters.

Elet stood at the door, a clear separation from those of us at the table. I only managed to lock eyes with him once before he fixed his gaze on the wall. I couldn't tell them the truth—what would Elet say if I did?—and I couldn't lay the blame on anyone here. My stomach twisted into a knot.

My mind constantly whirled, shuffling the thoughts in my head until it became surreal. At that point, my lip threatened to curve into a dry smile. Elet, the one truly guilty, was the only one that wasn't a suspect. I kept my head down to hide the out-of-place amusement on my face. I didn't want anyone to notice and get the wrong idea, but I needn't have worried. Moments later, any humor I felt was sucked out of me.

Constant footsteps of people passing by sounded in the hallway, so when the waiting ended, it took me by surprise. The noise beyond the door had faded into the background, causing the door to fly open without warning. A soldier held the door open as Davis entered and was followed by Escobar. They both stood to the side, allowing entrance of another man. This man was preceded by one guard and followed by another. The energy within the room shifted. There was no doubt in my mind this man was the Colonel, and as he stepped in, everyone around the table stood. I was the last to make it to my feet.

At ease, gentlemen, Colonel Schinner said. The men around the table didn't sit back down, so I wasn't sure what 'at ease' meant. I decided to mimic the way Jackson and Overton stood; straight with my hands clasped behind my back. I couldn't help sneaking glances at the man that had caused the room to shrink.

He was tall with a thick, muscular torso and a slim waist. His hair was thin on top, and what hair he had left was crawling further from his forehead. His face was riddled with pockmarks, and his nose was fat and crooked.

Fuck, he's ugly.

I quickly found a spot on the wall to stare at, hoping there was no such thing as Phoenix mind reading. I could feel the Colonel's gleaming, green eyes fix on me, and my cheeks began to burn.

First off, I want to thank you men, Colonel Schinner said. His voice was deep and a bit rough. "You risked your lives out there to bring those kids in safely. That is commendable work, and I'm proud to call you Dreamland Infantry.

However, there was a breach of protocol that cannot be overlooked. Major Davis has failed to report who committed the transgression. Now, as admirable as your actions were, a breach of this magnitude must be investigated and cannot be allowed to happen again. Joss Taylor, will you please come forward.

My heart dropped into my stomach at the mention of my name. I panicked, my eyes shooting everywhere. All the other eyes on me only made it worse. I didn't find any answers, and I wasn't sure what I was supposed to do. The Colonel had addressed me and was watching and waiting for me to move. Once again I found I didn't trust my legs but forced myself to step out from behind the table. I was surprised I didn't fall. My hands clasped together so tightly behind my back they hurt.

Yes, sir? It came out as a croak.

Joss Taylor, if you would be so kind as to tell the room who assisted your departure from our facilities, I would greatly appreciate this valued use of my time.

I stared at the Colonel for several seconds. I was too shocked to speak even if I had an answer for him. My eyes instinctively shot to Elet, where I found him finally glaring back at me. I looked away quickly, but my lapse had already been noted. Colonel Schinner turned to glance at Elet over his shoulder.

Fuck! I gave him away!

I see you understand what Private Williams can do, the Colonel said, and it took me a second to realize he misinterpreted my frantic glance. My eyes rose to meet those of the Colonel again. Yes, Private Williams will let us know if you're lying.

But would he?

I... It... I started, but the words wouldn't come. I swallowed and tried again. I did it myself.

The Colonel turned his intense stare from me to Elet. My jaw dropped when Elet shook his head. I stared, my face a mask of horror and disbelief.

Colonel Schinner surprised me when he chuckled. You were told. Private Williams will know if you lie.

Again, I had been misinterpreted, and Elet was safe, but now I was at a loss. Why did he call me out on the lie? What did he expect me to say?

I hid in one of the trucks and stayed there until we were outside the city, I said, choosing my words carefully. I cast a nervous glance at Elet, unable to help myself. This time, he nodded.

Those details can come later, Colonel Schinner said, his rumbling voice beginning to grow impatient. I shifted on my feet, growing more uncomfortable every second. We need to know who helped you. Ray Quarter?

The confusion on my face must have answered the question, and Colonel Schinner continued without me having to verbalize a reply. Oscar Bailey?

I shook my head, hoping that would suffice and knowing it wouldn't. Colonel Schinner didn't wait to correct me. Answer out loud.

No, I said.

Too many eyes turned to Elet, and I held my breath until he nodded his head. That lie he hid. Oscar Bailey was safe.

Did someone on Lieutenant Escobar's team help you get out of the compound? Colonel Schinner took a step towards me, and I reflexively stepped backward, bumping into the corner of the table. No one else around me flinched. I could feel the sweat forming on my neck, and I was unsure of what Elet was going to do when I stated my answer.

I shook my head, unable to find my voice to answer out loud. As Colonel Schinner raised an eyebrow, I blurted out, No.

Again, all eyes turned to Elet. He was squinting, frowning at me, and my breath was stuck in my throat as I waited for his verdict.

I helped him, sir, Waltz said, causing me to gasp as he stepped up beside me. I helped Joss Taylor get out of the facility.

Colonel Schinner's dark green eyes fell on Waltz. He wasn't a Phoenix. Elet wouldn't be able to say if he was lying or not. He could only say if McDaniel or Jackson...

I helped him, sir. McDaniel made me jump as he took a step forward. I helped Joss Taylor get out of the facility.

This time, Elet could call McDaniel out on the lie.

He didn't get the chance.

I helped Joss Taylor get out of the facility. Jackson stepped up, joining the line forming to either side of me. Inside, my heart hammered as the expression on Colonel Schinner's face darkened considerably. It didn't help when Overton joined the line.

I helped Joss Taylor get out of the facility. His voice didn't even crack. After he spoke, the silence that filled the room stuffed my ears.

Together, we all faced Colonel Schinner, and he glared at each of us in turn. I tried to swallow, but my throat stuck together, so I settled for gritting my teeth to stop the trembling in my jaw.

Colonel Schinner turned his heavy gaze on Elet, who was no longer looking up. He was staring at a fixed point on the floor. The Colonel's voice dropped an octave. He was not amused. Private Williams, please let me know if the Phoenix in the room are speaking the truth.

Moments passed, and Elet remained silent. Aside from everyone's breathing, there wasn't a sound to be heard. The footsteps outside were drowned out by the blood rushing through my ears.

Private Williams? Colonel Schinner prodded.

Elet raised his head and loudly stated, I helped Joss Taylor get out of the facility.

In two quick strides, Elet was standing in line with the rest of us.

Goddamnit, Davis hissed under his breath, too low for anyone else to hear.

The dark look stayed fixed on Colonel Schinner's face for a moment more but lightened when one eyebrow rose. He muttered under his breath, and again, I figured I was the only one who heard. We take care of our own.

Out loud, he said, Very well. Pipe duty for a week.

Again no one flinched, and Colonel Schinner turned to face the door. The guard nearest the door was quick to open it for him, but the colonel paused, turning to look back at me.

Good to have you on board, Private Taylor, he said, and then his entourage was gone, leaving us in the room with a very pissed off Davis and amused Escobar.

Davis's hand shot out and grabbed Elet, jerking him out of line. Get to my office and wait there.

Elet didn't even pause before he fled the room.

Davis turned to Escobar. Well, there was leniency here, Lieutenant Escobar. I don't expect that to happen again.

Lieutenant Escobar nodded. I am grateful for what happened today, and even more so that we were able to save the lives of those precious kids.

Whatever else Davis was going to say died on his lips. Escobar had used the reminder of our mission as a shield, and Davis ground his teeth. He gave Escobar a hard glare before following in Elet's wake.

As soon as the door closed behind him, the men around me relaxed.

All that for a week of pipe duty? Overton said with a scoff.

Not everyone likes to eat shit as much as you do, Overton, McDaniel snapped.

Enough, Escobar said before anyone else could chime in. I'm proud of you boys today. All of you.

Thank you, Lieutenant.

Of course, Lieutenant.

Yes, sir.

Different murmured replies spread about the room, yet I