Gabriel's breath became sharp and quick.
The Commander's footsteps echoed ahead of him, steady and unhurried, each one hitting Gabriel like a dagger to the heart. Each step taking him closer to her.
The torches lining the walls flickered weakly, as if even the fire feared the path they were taking.
His legs moved on instinct, not obedience.
The sigils carved across his torso pulsed beneath his skin, slow at first, then quicker.
She is waiting. I don't want to go again.
I need to escape, but there's no escape. My brother has abandoned me, and the church has abandoned me.
The Commander makes sure I'm clean, fed and trained. Maybe when they've finished, they won't hurt me anymore.
No, once they finish, they will use me. I'll never escape.
Gabriel lowered his head, looking at the floor as he continued behind the Commander.
The realisation he was never escaping the cult wrapped around his neck like a noose.
He continued following.
