Chapter 13: Boy From the Ruins Part 2

Shit.

So escape may not be the best plan. Not yet at least. But I can't live here. I can't let this be my life. This isn't my life. But him - that boy. He got out of here and returned. They haven't taken him so it's possible that I could do the same. I'll just never come back.

"What?" Raj winces, watching me work through things.

But I can't give away my plan. To find him - whoever he is - and get the secret; and find out how he was able to leave without being dragged back. For now - right now - I'll have to stay put. Endure this until I'm able to do something about it. But if I'm going to stay, I'll need to know more about how this whole system works.

"Raj... I need you to do something for me."

"What?"

I draw her in close, whispering into her ear again, "I need you to point out the Clans. Who're the big players?"

"But you can't - "

"I'm not going to talk to them. Just want to know who they are."

"I..."

"You know, don't you? Tell me. You've got to tell me."