Page 128 of Born Savage

We pulled away, Phoenix still holding me close. This would always be my favorite view.

With John waiting, he nodded as if knowing something that I didn’t. That none of us did.

And I could tell he was pleased.

The prophecy was fulfilled.

CHAPTER 27

Phoenix

In the week since arriving in Eden, I’d begun to believe in the destiny I’d heard about. While there were still hundreds of unanswered questions, we were ready to discover the reality of truths that continued to linger in the backs of our minds.

The area was amazing, hundreds of miles of fertile lands, thousands of people who’d traveled great distances with only hope and perseverance to guide them. And a strong belief in the prophecy as told through the years.

Hope was a powerful tool, even more so than threats and punishment designed to keep people in line. For those living in Eden, there was no longing for more because they had everything they needed.

Including each other.

I’d fallen deeply in love with Star, realizing her capacity for love was stronger than mine. She was a bright light in the world, joyful about every new experience and the people adored her.

But now we were ready, realizing that our fate and future were far from over. This was merely a resting spot, preparing us for change. More people were coming now that the word was out and through time, at least according to John, the lands would expand. First across the north, eventually spreading south as the people of the Freedom Cities were freed.

All in due time. Patience was a necessity.

“I believe you have everything you need,” John said. In front of us was a computer, one just like something I’d owned as a boy.

And the drive given to me in secrecy from Peter was ready to provide the needed answers.

“You’re not staying?” Star asked.

“No, child. I already know the answers. But you need to hear them for yourselves. Take heed in that with great knowledge comes responsibility. But I have no fear you will know what to do with what you’ll learn.”

He nodded to both of us before leaving the house we’d been gifted.

Once he was gone, I moved to a chair beside her, waiting for her okay to insert the drive.

“Are you afraid?” she asked.

“Not at all. This is our destiny.”

She tipped her head, rolling her eyes in a reminder that nothing about her had changed. She’d simply grown more beautiful and introspective. She would make a wonderful queen.

As soon as I inserted the drive, we were rewarded with dozens of files.

At first, I didn’t know what we were looking at. Then it dawned on me what we were seeing were schematics of every Freedom City, others for bunkers throughout the country. And even others detailing water purification systems and electricity plants buried beneath the earth’s surface to bring a level of what life had been back then if desired.

No wonder John had mentioned the heavy responsibility. What we had in our possession was a blueprint for building a country, bringing it back to its original glory.

“Amazing,” she whispered. “Your father thought of everything.”

“He knew there was a chance of being betrayed.”

“Yes, he did. I’m so sorry, Phoenix, but I can tell how much he loved you.”

“Yes, he did.” Another file drew my attention and I rubbed my hand down her face, pulling her chin toward me. “Whatever happens, know I love you. You can always lean on me. I will protect you.”

“I know that. Very much so.” She leaned into me, noticing the name on the file.