Damage Control

Glad you could join us for the next custodial episode of Elliot’s Adventures. If you’re new here, you can catch up by returning to the beginning, and reading really fast…

Dinner among the recruits was a noisy, energetic affair. Sharing stories about their training — their failures and their triumphs — brought laughs and complaints, taunts and praise. Their natures began to sort them into a team of leaders and followers.

As word of Sam’s prowess spread beyond the stinging Fliers to the other training groups, she became the most sought-out trainee in the Meadow.

Listening to her repeat her story again and again with each new request from the latest admirer to seek an audience, Clifton only found more to respect. She never embellished her tale, and she always assured everyone who listened that they could master any technique anyone of them invented. And she never failed to ask about their own day’s experiences.

By the time the Hiverarchy Guards showed up with Andre in the lead insisting she come with them, Sam was surrounded by comrades who were ready to fight them off.

“You told Mother, you little maggot!” She lurched toward him only to have Clifton and three others restrain her.

The commotion brought the Ambassador.

“May I help you?” Arturo asked the Guards.

Andre smirked at Sam, but kept an eye on her would-be defenders. “Queen Madalena sent us to escort my sister back to the Hiverarchy.”

“Do you have authority to negotiate an arrangement that will allow her to remain here until she completes her training?” the Ambassador inquired.

“He doesn’t have any authority at all,” Sam intoned.

The Ambassador silenced her with a glance.

“We aren’t here to negotiate,” Andre answered. “I’m afraid Samantha is in big trouble.”

“Recruit,” Arturo addressed Sam, “accompany these Guards peacefully. Clifton will go with you to represent the Alliance. Get this sorted out, and report to me as soon as it is.”

To be continued. . .

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