Page 85 of Savage Throne
I tensed.
“It’s not just survival. It’s power.” He pointed at me. “Show them who you are.”
My heart hammered in my chest.
I knew there was no turning back now.
No matter how much the idea of taking another person's life horrified me, I couldn’t escape the reality that lay before me.
We got to this blue one-level structure that seemed more like a warehouse than lodging.
Barely twenty feet ran between us and the building.
Leo stopped us. “This is as far as we go.”
Next, this harsh sound of laughter echoed from inside.
The man with the bag walked up and handed it to me.
Oh God.
Freaked out, I took the bag.
With it so close, the stench was horrific.
I almost vomited.
“This is where it counts, Monique.” Leo’s voice went low and deadly calm. “Remember where to aim and who to strike first. The leaders, the ones who rush to speak, the ones who instantly rise or try to attack you. Kill them before they kill you.”
I swallowed hard. “And if they don’t step up or be quick to say something?”
“Then you make them.” He placed his hand on my shoulder.
Song cleared his throat.
Leo frowned and moved his hand away. “Monique, stay courageous. You’re more capable than you know.”
Song stepped closer. “We’ll be here. Outside. But this isyourfight.”
A cold shiver sliced through me.
I wanted to scream at them; to tell them this was madness, but I knew it wouldn’t matter. They’d already made up their minds, and deep down, a part of me had, too.
I was already standing at the edge of this cliff.
All that remained was my stepping over to fall.
Leo pointed at me again. “Show them who you are.”
My hands trembled as I gripped the bag tighter.
“I. . .will. . .” I forced myself to breathe.
“Good.” An odd smile spread across Leo’s face. “Now go.”
I froze.
They all watched me.
