The ground feels like it sways under me.
“A crashed one?” I whisper.
“We think so,” Calista says. “Metallic traces are very similar to the alloys used in the generation ship, but the composition isn’t a perfect match.”
“So something else.”
Jolie nods grimly. “Possibly.”
My heart slams painfully. “You think it’s some other ship? Some other… species? One we haven’t encountered before?”
“Whatever it is, we know it is releasing toxins into the soil,” Calista says, meeting my eyes. “And if we don’t find it, everything within miles will die.”
The vine. The animals. The hunters. Us.
“So I need to track the contamination,” I say.
“Yes,” Jolie says, squeezing my arm. “And you’re the only one who won’t draw attention before we’re ready.”
“Lucky me,” I murmur.
Calista lifts a small cloth pouch and hands it to me.
“Supplies. Dried fruit, water vials, emergency salve, minor antidotes. And your maps.”
I swallow hard. “When do I leave?”
Calista hesitates only a moment. “Now.”
Brook’s voice pipes up from behind. “Now? It’s almost dark!”
“That’s why she needs to go,” Jolie says. “Whatever is leaking… it’s spreading fast.”
Calista looks at me with steady determination. “The longer we wait, the more we risk.”
I nod slowly. “Okay.”
Brook stares at me like I’ve grown extra heads. “You’re insane.”
“Probably,” I say, tying the pouch to my belt.
Calista shifts closer and grips both my shoulders.
“Fear is good, Lia. It keeps you alert, but don’t let it rule you.”
“I won’t.”
Jolie touches my cheek, motherly. “You are ready.”
The words hit something deep inside—something small and half-hidden that has never quite believed I’m anything more than background noise. Younger. Smaller. Quieter. Not the first pick for anything. Yet here they are, choosing me. Because they believe in me. And that belief is a terrifying gift.
Brook lets out a breath. “If you die, I’m going to be really pissed. So… don’t.”
I huff a laugh. “I’ll do my best.”
Calista steps back, giving me the space to move.
“Three miles south is where the hunters fell ill. Start there. Look for plants that resemble your sample. Follow the pattern. It will lead you to the source.”
