City of Salvation
Over the five-day drive to Chicago, the Handmaids watched the scenery go by and dozed off a few times. Every now and then, they made a pit stop where and refueled the tanks with the gasoline cannisters. Thanks to Ryan and the radio installed, they were able to listen to music and the radio station talk about the ongoing war, the Saint, and God's Wrath. The news about they're deeds, and humiliating Gilead made the Handmaids laugh when it was mentioned how God's Soldiers, as the radio host calls them, have inspired rebellions across the nation and the NGOs from England, Canada, Ireland, Norway, and France have been sending supply aides to the victims of the nation, to give them fighting chances against Gilead.
"The other countries know about what's happening to us?" June asked as they listened to the radio that morning as the sun peeked over the horizon, casting the landscape in an orange glow.
"Yeah. Ever since what happened in Washington, Alex and about fifteen other guys have videotaped the atrocities around the country, from the Colonies, the Salvagings, the child marriages, the mutilations, all of it. By broadcasting the truth, the whole world is against Gilead. Now there is no trade deals or negotiations between this nation and theirs." Ryan explained as they passed under another highway.
"Aside from NGOs, are they gonna send soldiers to help us as well?" Alma asked from behind the driver's seat.
"No, it's best for them not to." Ryan answered disappointedly.
"How come?" June asked.
"This is between us and Gilead." Ryan stated, "While NGOs lend us aide from around the world, their governments feel it is safe for their people not to get involved in our conflict. If we involve other nations, it could spark World War 3. The Saint wants to avoid that."
"She told you this?" June asked, curious about the Saint's methods in this war.
"No, I overheard her talking to government officials during their video calls. She doesn't want to drag the countries into war. She's been in contact with Canada, Mexico, Spain, Australia and the UK. After what they've seen happen at the Colonies and the brutal punishments inflicted upon the women here. They agreed to grant asylum to the victims of Gilead." Ryan explained with a soft smile, "Apparently being a walking miracle of God can sway politicians into doing what needs to be done."
"What's the Saint like? You've been with her for quite a while now, haven't you?" Janine asked, leaning forward excitedly. The last time she saw the Holy Soldier was when she helped her baby daughter be free.
Ryan sighed, "How to best describe her? Well, I don't know where to start. But the first thing that comes to mind is angelic, followed by compassionate, gentle, sweet, loving, kind, brave, noble, protective. But she can be quite frightening in her anger, that doesn't happen quite often." He listed off the best words to describe their holy leader.
"She sounds too good to be true." Brianna said as she read a book with her legs spread out in the seat. Boy did it feel good to read again.
"Well, we recently found out about some of her bad habits that we always have to look out for." Ryan said as the sun shone through the clouds.
"What, does she snore?" June asked as she pictured the Saint snoring loudly.
"No. She pushes herself way too hard and forgets her own health." Ryan said with mild annoyance.
"Is that all?" Alma asked incredulously.
"I'm serious. It turns out when she exhausts herself from using her power during missions she tends to sleep for hours on end, she even forgets eating food. She falls asleep during her prayer sessions, at the cafeteria, in the bathtub, and on the roof." Ryan explained exasperatedly, remembering how since Angel's Flight their holy leader has come out of her shell and started interacting more with the rebels without the mask hiding her face, but it also brought forth some hiccups with how the Saint forgets to take personal care of herself.
"You're kidding me." June said as she imagined the Saint falling asleep in odd places after using her powers to fight Gilead.
"No, I'm being serious." Ryan said as they turned down another highway that would lead them straight into Chicago territory.
"So, she's got quirks. Not like we don't." Janine said, not judgmental.
"It almost makes her human." Alma shrugged in her seat.
"Um, that's because she is." Ryan stated, not bothering to look behind him to see their surprised expression.
"I'm sorry, but that sounded like you said the holy entity that God tossed into Gilead is actually human?" June exclaimed after a momentary pause.
Ryan nodded, "That's right, she's human. You were gonna find out anyway, so you might as well know."
"But that can't be." Janine said as she leaned forward. "No human can do the things that she can. It's impossible unless they're God."
"Believe me when I say that it's true. She's born human, and the incredible power she has, we genuinely believe they came from God himself, that she was chosen by Him to save us. Just as Moses was chosen to save his people from slavery." Ryan sighed, "I don't know the full details, all I know is she had a painful childhood. Her mom was a fanatic Christian and used religion as an excuse to abuse her own daughter."
Janine gasped at the knowledge, "That's horrible. How could she do such a thing?" She was appalled by the idea of hurting your own child.
"The woman suffered from a severe case of schizophrenia. Apparently, it drove her to madness and almost killed the Saint." Ryan explained, just as sickened at the thought of that creature. "She doesn't just fight because of her powers. She's fighting Gilead because she understands the pain of being helpless against monsters like her mother who hurt innocent people in God's name. Anyone who uses His word to excuse violence is not a true child of God."
"That's why she wants to save us." June stated, her eyes glistened with tears. "She suffered just like us."
Ryan nodded, "We all suffered because of people like her mother, like all those Gilead cunts." He said, though if he were being honest about the Saint and her relationship with her abusive mother, he can't help but find tragic parallels between them and this war. The Saint sees herself in the enslaved and oppressed, and she also sees her mother in Gilead itself.
June looked out the window, only for her eyes to widen upon seeing giant walls surrounding a city with the building peeking above them. "Oh my God." June whispered at the sight. The others inside the bus looked out and shared the same shocked expressions. As they got closer, they realized the wall was made up of cargo shipping containers stacked on top of each other.
"Holy shit." Alma voiced their thoughts as they got closer to the city.
The watchmen on top of the wall spotted them and radioed his comrades down at the gate about the approaching vehicle.
The bus stopped before the gate before he picked up the walkie and pressed a button. "This is Ryan Traks, Code 403. I repeat, Ryan Traks, Code 403. Requesting permission to enter."
The walkie beeped before a voice responded, "Welcome back Ryan, come on in."
The gates slid open for Ryan to drive through. "Ladies, welcome to the City of Salvation." Once they passed the gate, they were met with the sight of soldiers patrolling and standing guard as well as cars and trucks armed to the extreme. As they moved further into the city, they saw them trading and were moving around with a variety of items in their arms as they brought them from one workshop to another.
"They work around the clock." Ryan explained as they toured through the city streets. "Though we claimed 65% of Chicago for our own, we always have to be ready. So, we gathered up any and all materials, metal scraps, glass, nails, anything that is lethal enough to make shatter bombs and ammo. Even a paperclip can make a difference."
"How'd you build a wall in such a short amount of time?" June asked as they continued through the city.
"You can thank the Wrath for that. She drove the Guardians out of our city and helped build the wall. Don't ask where she got the cargo boxes, 'cause I can't for the life of me figure it out." Ryan added as he stopped to let a couple pass the street. "She stayed with us for almost three weeks while our Saint was recovering from a gunshot wound."
"Is she alright?" Janine asked, concerned for the angelic protector of the Handmaids.
"She's fine. It happened on the night of Angel's Flight, so she's feeling much better now all things considered." Ryan assured them.
This however caught June's attention. "Wait, what happened to her that night? I didn't know she helped us."
"That's because she wanted you to focus on the children while she and Wrath caused mayhem and distracted the Guardians and Eyes. They pissed them off thirteen ways to Sunday." Ryan grinned, remembering the stories of how they placed decoys and traps for the Guardians and how the two leaders caused a building to crumble into a crater.
"No way, they did that for us?" June asked, staring at Ryan in shock.
"Did you really think we'd let you fight alone Ms. Osborne? Everyone here lost someone or are trying to find a family member that was stolen by Gilead. What you did was a victory for all of us. Seeing those children free gives us hope to free our own children from those monsters." Ryan said with admiration and hope.
They pulled up in front of a hotel called 'InterContinental'. While the building sustained some damage in the outer part of the structure, it was still functional as the Rebellion's main base of operations. Guards were posted outside and upon seeing the familiar bus return in one piece, they radioed their leaders.
Ryan stopped the vehicle and opened the door, "Thank you ladies for riding the Traks' Escapade."
Everyone was tense as they peeked outside at the InterContinental, though they were happy to be away from Gilead, they can never get too comfortable like with what happened at the Keys Farm. June took a deep breath and stood up, slowly making her way towards the door and stepped down the small stairs until she was on the concrete ground. She looked up at the guards and soldiers standing outside. Unlike the Guardians, these people didn't wear the same uniform, and despite their hardened looks, there was compassion and concern within their eyes. One of them, a boy no older than eighteen, stepped forward, "Are you really June Osborne?"
June was silent for a moment before she answered, "Yes."
He gave her a relieved and hopeful smile, "We heard about what you've done for Angel's Flight. My little brother was on that plane, he made it to Canada thanks to you."
June felt a spark of happiness fill her as she smiled, tears swimming in her eyes, "Praised be." She swallowed her saliva before she turned to the window and nodded at her fellow Handmaids, letting them know that it's okay to come out. Janine was the first to follow June out, her smile bright and beautiful as she breathed in the fresh air of Chicago. Alma, Brianna, and all who have successfully escaped Gilead are now outside before the InterContinental.
"This way ladies." The Rebel soldier said as he led them inside the massive building. The interior was just as grand, though instead of guests staying at the hotel for fun and pleasure, it was all warfare and business. There were people stationed on the second floor and leaning over the balcony to get a better look at the former Handmaids, June especially since she was still wearing the prison uniform while the others were dressed as Marthas.
They stood at the center of the lobby, June slowly spun around to take in all the equipment, crates, tables, maps, blueprints, and a variety of supplies. This grand luxurious hotel she grew up hearing about is now a military base of operations.
"June Osborne." A kind and gentle voice echoed in the room, one that made her soul light with hope. She looked up towards the top of the stairs and saw a teenage girl who appeared much smaller standing next to a middle-aged man with greying hair and a strong build. She wore a simple white sweater and jeans, her strawberry-blonde hair was tied back in a ponytail and her green-blue eyes shone with wonder and awe.
June's eyes widened as she realized who this is. "The Saint." She whispered as the girl gave her that kind angelic smile as she walked down the spiraling staircase with leisure strides, her eyes never leaving June's.
Everyone watched their holy leader descend the steps until she touched the ground, standing before June Osborne and the Handmaids. She stepped forward until she was at arm's length from the older woman. "You're here at last." The Saint, though unmasked, still gave them her ever-gentle smile.
"Yes, thank you for having us, Your Holiness." June said as she bowed her head in respect towards the young woman, though they were the same height, June held a couple inches over her.
The Saint released a small laugh and shook her head. "Please, do not bow. Fore it is I who must thank you." She said as June raised her head to look at her. "No words cannot describe how many of us feel. You brought our children across the Canadian border. You saved them, so many of them in one night. You have given us hope, for that, we thank you." The Saint bowed her head as she placed a hand on her heart, showing her respect and acknowledgement towards the woman who made the impossible, possible.
The Saint raised her head and announced, "Tonight, we feast in celebration for this victory, and for our future endeavors in this battle!"
The sound of clapping and cheering roared around them as everyone, from the second floor and lobby applauded them for their efforts in protecting the next generation. June smiled as Janine hugged her from behind, elation written on her face as everyone scattered to gather food and supplies for tonight's celebration.
"Come, I'll take you to your rooms. I believe it's high time we wash all the Gilead off of you." The Saint said as she led them up the stairs. "I'm really glad you're all here. When I heard all of you vanished, I feared the worst. I sent word to all the channels to find you and bring you here safely. Thank God they didn't get to you, and thankfully Wrath saved you in time." The leader said as she and her right-hand man led the women down the hall towards their accommodations.
"Yeah, she's a sadistic psycho." Alma commented as she remembered the way she massacred the Guardians and Eyes when those men found their hideout.
"She's also my sister." The leader said as she glanced behind her at the shocked Handmaids who exclaimed, "What?!"
The leader glanced behind them with an apologetic smile and shrugged, "Half-sisters to be precise. Same dad."
"No wonder she seemed familiar. And the powers." June stated as she stared at the Saint, trying to find the physical similarities between the two.
"When I said, 'sadistic psycho', I meant that in a good way." Alma said in embarrassment.
The Saint laughed softly, "No need for that, she is who she is. I've already accepted it. We have something of a truce between us, I don't interfere with her, she won't interfere with me."
"But you're sisters, you must like each other, right?" Janine asked with her innocent and pure outlook on life.
"We do actually, we just have different ideals and methods when fighting Gilead. But the only time we ever fought side by side was during the night of Angel's Flight. A beautiful family bonding experience for us." The Saint said with a fond smile, though she didn't like how her sister handled the Guardians, she enjoyed the quality time she spent with the Wrath as the caused mayhem for Gilead.
"We heard you helped us that night. You also got shot as well." June stated as her hand ghosted over to her side where her scar from the bullet resided.
"Yes. Though in retrospect, I was already injured before that night." The Saint said with a guilty expression as they entered the elevator and pressed the top floor button. "I wasn't fully healed, and that was my fault." She sighed, "But I wanted you guys to succeed no matter what. So, it was worth it." She said as they reached the top floor where they were led to a door.
June stared at the Saint in awe at how she set aside her own well-being for the sake of the Handmaids and the children. "Thank you."
"You're welcome, it was my pleasure." She said to the Handmaids as she fished out a card key and slid it through the slot. They entered the deluxe suite of the hotel. Their mouths gaped open at the luxurious room complete with a bar, kitchen, living room, and separate bedrooms.
"Oh my...Is this for us?" Janine asked as she ventured further into the room, spinning around, taking it all in with wonder.
The young leader smiled at their expressions as she leaned against the door frame, "Yep, figured after everything, you could all use this time to shower, rest, and recuperate. We also prepared a change of clothes for each and every one of you."
"Your Holiness-" Alma began, but the Saint held her hand up to stop her.
"Please, none of that 'Holiness'. I don't know who came up with that, but it's a little much given the circumstances. My name is Carrie White." Carrie introduced herself to the Handmaids, tired of being called holy when she was just as human as them.
"Carrie. That's beautiful." June said as ran her fingers across the smooth marble countertop.
"Take this time to gather your bearings. There are two bathrooms in this room. The party is at seven this evening. I'll see you all tonight." Carrie said as she closed the door and left them all alone in the extravagant suite.
June turned to her fellow Handmaids who shared awed expressions. Their moment of silence was broken by the squealing laughter of Janine who flopped onto the couch. Everyone joined in as they felt relief and safety at long last after so many years of pain, terror and oppression.
"We're. Actually. HERE!" Janine squealed, unable to contain her immense joy. "We're in the heart of the Rebellion!"
"I can't believe we pulled that off." Alma said with a relieved sigh as she slumped in a stool at the bar. She laid her head in her hands and groaned as the weight of everything was lifted off their shoulders.
June grinned slightly before she left the counter and made her way to the bedroom and saw the double bed at the center and a conjoined bathroom. She made her way to the bathroom and saw the shower. With little thought to her own modesty, she peeled off her prison garb and jumped into the shower, washing away all the filth and cleansing herself of Gilead. She washed herself thoroughly until she was squeaky clean and smelling like roses and lavender. She stood under the falling water and stared at the ceiling for a long time as she took in everything that happened to her and what almost became of her once again. Guilt and self-hatred began to consume her as she wept. Her tears mixed in with the shower as she released all the pent-up anguish she held inside. When she had no more tears left to cry, she stepped out and pulled on the bathrobe and stepped out and saw Janine waiting outside who set a pile of folded clothes on top of the bed.
"Carrie made sure there was no red color on them." Janine said as June picked up the grey shirt.
"I guess I'll take that shower now." The one-eyed girl said as she hopped into the bathroom behind June who changed into regular civilian clothes. She flopped onto her back against the mattress and closed her eyes.
She woke to the sound of someone knocking on the door. She groaned then sat up, realizing she was under the blankets, something she didn't remember doing when she fell asleep. The door opened to reveal Brianna who was freed from her Martha uniform and wore tank top and sweatpants. "Hey, you hungry?"
June rubbed her hand over her face, "How long was I out?"
"Eight hours. It's already 5pm." Brianna answered as she came in with a plate of eggs, bacon, and toast.
"How is everyone?" June asked as she accepted the plate from her friend and comrade.
"Well, we no longer stink." Brianna said, making June laugh as she stared at the plate in her lap. Her smile fell as she remembered what she did when they had Hannah inside the glass box.
"What's wrong?" Brianna asked, worried about June.
"There's something I need to tell everyone. About what happened while the Eyes had me." June said as she pushed the food on her plate around, unable to find it in herself to eat anything.
"They're all in the living room." Brianna said as she took the plate from June and left the room to inform their sisters of what their leader had to say.
June trudged out of the bedroom and found everyone at the kitchen table eating brunch. "Hey everybody." June greeted; her voice slightly hoarse as she sat at the head of the table.
"June, are you okay?" Janine asked as she stared at her friend in great concern.
June was silent as she stewed in her guilt. "Not really. When the Eyes had me, they subjected me to so much torture." She sighed, "Aunt Lydia was also there."
Janine gasped softly as a hand flew to her mouth. Despite the abuse the older woman inflicted upon the poor girl, they shared a mother-daughter bond and cared about each other dearly.
"What happened?" Alma asked as her scar tingled on her wrist at the torturous memory of what that woman put them through.
June swallowed, "They wanted to know where you were. I gave them a fake location. But then they killed Beth and Sienna in front of me, pushed them off the roof."
"Oh God." Janine held her hands together against her mouth as she prayed for their souls.
"But you didn't tell them anything." Alma said, watching June close her eyes with a look of guilt. "June?"
June looked up as tears swam in her eyes, "They brought in Hannah."
"What?" Alma's eyes widened along with the others.
"They put her in a glass cage. When I approached her..." June hiccupped as she remembered the look of fear on her beautiful daughter's face when she called her name. "...She didn't recognize me. She didn't know who I was." She sobbed, "She was afraid of me, not them."
"No." Janine shook her head as her heart broke for her friend, "June that can't be true."
"That's how they found us." Alma said as she pieced together what June confessed, "You told them."
June nodded her head as she closed her eyes, guilty and in pain over what happened between her and Hannah. Janine got up from her chair and hugged June who continued to sob uncontrollably. "There was nothing I could do for her. Everything that has happened to her was because of me. I failed Hannah, and I failed all of you. I'm sorry...I'm so sorry."
"June." Janine rocked her friend as she soothingly rubbed her back, "It's not your fault. We forgive you." The one-eyed girl looked over at their friends and stated, "We all would've done the same thing to protect our children."
As angry and betrayed Alma felt, she couldn't deny that, because her baby Dylan is still trapped in Gilead. She got up and wrapped her arms around June, who was soon joined by everyone who held their leader the same way they held a Handmaid who recently gave birth only to have their baby taken away from them. They knew no words could comfort them or remove the pain of separating from their child.
"I'm sorry... I'm sorry..." June sobbed in their arms, apologizing over and over again for her failures as a mother and a leader. For that one hour, each of them cried, sharing their pain of losing their children to Gilead, and the fear of no longer being recognized by their children. They released all their emotions in that room, supporting and holding each other in their grief for their babies.
When there were no more tears left for them to cry, Janine warmed up the food and urged June to eat while the others turned on the T.V. and switched on the News Broadcast from unclaimed territories and freed states fighting against Gilead, many of them depicted rising resistance factions and uprising against the regime. But the main resistance groups that were at the top were Saint White's Rebellion and Wrath of God's terrorist group, Purgatory.
"I still can't believe that's the Saint's sister." Alma said as they watched the Wrath demonstrate one of her torture methods upon Commanders by forcing them to walk naked in the district that now belonged to Purgatory. A crowd gathered, many of them wore Martha and Handmaid uniforms as they screamed pointed and laughed at their oppressors who were now paraded for all to see. Thankfully the private parts were blurred.
"There is absolutely no resemblance." Brianna added as the Wrath struck the Commanders with a bullwhip to make them walk.
June came to stand beside the couch they were sitting on as they watched the crowd cheer at their oppressors' humiliation. June paid more attention to the demented pleasure on the Wrath's face. The twisted joy she had on as she terrified the Commanders for all the pain and anguish they caused. Watching Gilead suffer soothed the pain of losing her daughter again.
"She doesn't play around. What we saw at the prison was only a fraction of what she's capable of." June stated as she remembered how she broke that Guardian's fingers, the sound the bones made were like music to her ears.
"She's still crazy and sadistic." Alma commented.
"She hates Gilead. Not that anyone can blame her." June said remembering the conversation she had with the woman regarding the previous Offred that inhabited the Waterford household. The tender reverence Wrath held for her mother and the grief over losing her to Gilead.
"She lost someone." Janine said as she watched the Wrath with pity. Despite all the rage and anger the woman displays, her only eye was able to see the pain and heartache Wrath suffered from loss.
A knock on the door startled them. Even though they were in much safer territory, they still haven't let their guard down. June slowly approached the door then looked through the peep hole. Her heart practically leapt out of her chest at the face that stood a foot away from the door. Hastily, she unlocked the door and wretched it open, her eyes wide and mouth gaped open at the person standing there.
"Frances?" June whispered, unable to believe her eyes at the woman free of her Martha garb.
"Hello June." Frances greeted with a warm smile.
June mouth opened and closed, unable to speak the words as she threw her arms around the woman. Though startled, Frances returned the hug with as much force.
June pulled away with tears shining in her eyes. "Oh my God. I... I can't believe...When I heard the Eyes took you, I thought..." June could not form the right words to create a sentence.
"By God's grace and mercy, I was saved. I was brought here to help the Saint in her fight to free everyone from Gilead." Frances said, bewildered and happy to see the mother of Hannah once again.
June shook her head as regret filled her. "It was because of me that..."
"Hey, we both took a risk for Hannah. This was not your fault." Frances assured her as she grasped the other woman's shoulder.
The others watched their interaction before June pulled her into the room. June wiped her tears as she turned to her sisters. "Everyone, this is Frances, she was the Martha who watched over Hannah."
Janine was the first to approach them as she grasped the older woman's hand with beautiful smile, "Praised be, you're safe. We're happy to meet you. I'm Janine." Everyone introduced themselves to the former Martha, greeting her warmly and happily.
"By request of Her Holiness, Saint White, I am here to escort you to tonight's celebration." Frances told them with a kind welcoming smile.
"Is there booze?" Alma asked, needing something to take the edge off and have some buzz.
"Of course. And there's dancing and singing. Lots of singing, the Saint loves karaoke." Frances said as Janine squealed then tugged Brianna towards the door. "Let's go."
June shook her head as she smiled at Janine's antics then followed her out. She hung in the back with Frances as they got in the elevator. "How'd you get here?"
"The Wrath got me and ten others. She mutilated the Guardians and Eyes and gave us a choice, the Rebellion or the Purgatory. I chose to come here for Hannah's sake." Frances answered June as she remembered the horrifying day that almost ended her life.
"The Wrath saved you?"
"Yes. There was some kind of arrangement between them. They're not allies, but they're not enemies either. They agree to remain neutral to each other in their war against Gilead." Frances explained the dynamics between the two leaders.
"So, the typical 'you don't bother me as long as I don't bother you' sibling relationship." June surmised as she compared the two leaders' personalities and saw a great contrast between the two.
"Pretty much. But they do care about each other. The Wrath stayed for more than two weeks when the Saint fell into a coma after getting shot. She stuck around making sure her sister got better." Frances added as she remembered the tender fondness the younger telekinetic reserved for Carrie when she was on bedrest.
"I met her once when she rescued us, she massacred the Guardians and Eyes at this prison but left one alive to send a message to the Commanders, but not before she broke his fingers backwards." June added, a shiver came down her spine at the grotesque sight of that man's crippled fingers.
Frances had a discomforted expression, "That's what she does. Without their fingers, they can't use their guns or hurt anyone. She does it to slow them down. Takes a while to heal, even longer to fully recover, physically and emotionally." She sighed, "Can't say they don't deserve it."
June nodded as they made it to the second floor where the dining room was located to see tables and chairs set up and food set up like a cafeteria. But what caught their attention was the Saint using her powers to set up the lights and decorations. She was graceful, moving her arms and fingers in fluid movements as she walked, practically dancing as she moved the heavy speakers for the stage with minimal effort. All this done with a smile on her face.
"That shit's amazing." Alma said, mesmerized by how Carrie used her powers.
Frances smiled, "You haven't seen nothing yet." She approached the Saint, "Your Holiness, your guests of honors have arrived."
Carrie turned and gave them a beaming smile as she made her way over to them. "You all look so much better."
June bowed her head to the young woman. "It's all thanks you. We feel better actually."
Carrie grinned, "I'm glad. We're almost ready for the celebration. But come, let me introduce you to everyone." She grabbed June's hand and led the freed Handmaids over to a group of people who serve on her council and highest-ranking soldiers in the Rebellion, Alex, her second-in-command, Dr. Lisa, head of medical, and Reggie, spy master. Names and pleasantries were exchanged as they helped set up the tables, clearing the center for dancing and mingling as everyone arrived.
With everything set up, June and her friends sat at the large table with the Saint at the center and her council at her right. Wine and beer were served, and plates were filled with food June thought she would never see again. She watched everyone from her seat directly to the left of the Saint who chatted with her second-in-command. Everyone looked joyful, and she could feel how light the air felt compared to Gilead.
Carrie stood up and clinked her silverware on her glass to gain everyone's attention. "Thank you all for gathering here this evening. As you all have known for quite some time, Gilead was dealt a major blow when 86 of our stolen children was flown out of this country and are now free in Canada." That statement earned cheers and applause from every soldier in the room. Carrie smiled and raised her hand to calm them down. "But it wasn't us who pulled it off. No, that miracle was possible thanks to the bravery and ingenuity of one person, June Osborne." Carrie turned to June as everyone clapped and cheered loudly for the woman who took the greatest risk and saved the children of America.
Carrie smiled as she made a gesture for the surprised woman to stand, which she did. "June, on behalf of everyone, from this Rebellion and all who fight against Gilead, you have our eternal thanks." Carrie said as everyone gave June and her team gleaming hopeful smiles.
June smiled, "Thank you. But it wasn't just me, i couldn't have done it without my friends, from Handmaids and Marthas, and you. You also helped us that night. If possible, we would like to be of service to the Rebellion." June asked, wanting to continue the fight for her daughter.
Carrie grinned, "It would be an honor actually. Let us welcome the newest members of our family!" She announced, drawing another applause from the audience.
June laughed as she sat down with the Saint. When the music came on, people took to the dancefloor and started to move to the beat, one that was familiar to June in the time before. Janine, Alma, and all their friends left the table to start mingling with the others. After a few tense moments, they were able to relax and have fun and started dancing to the karaoke songs on stage.
June watched her friends have fun, but her mind went straight to Hannah. She couldn't find the ability to feel joy in this bit of freedom she gained. She glanced at the Saint who leaned back with her head leaned into her hand as she watched her soldiers enjoy this moment of reprieve. Her stance was relaxed and had a content smile despite the chaos she has to face every day.
Carrie's smile vanished when she caught sight of someone just outside the dining room. With a worried expression, she excused herself from the table and quickly wove her way through the crowd until she was facing the person. After a moment, she and the person walked away from the party.
June watched the entrance where the Saint disappeared through before she got up and snuck out of the room to follow since she could not handle the gathering within the massive room. She made into the empty hallway, keeping her ears open as she wandered around, looking for the leader until she got to the balcony overlooking the lobby. Her eyes scanned the room until she found the stark white clad leader sitting on a sofa with a young man who was hunched over and crying as she rubbed soothing circles on his back. June kept herself hidden as watched the side profile of their bodies.
"-I was ready to kill her. I wanted to kill her." June's eyes widened when she recognized Ryan's voice.
"But you didn't. You proved yourself better than that." Carrie's gentle soothing voice whispered as she rubbed his back.
"But I almost-" Ryan raised his head and gasped out shuddering breaths. "I know you never approved, but I've killed Guardians and Aunts in the Colonies when we liberated the slaves. It was easy because I never saw their faces. Never saw them as people, just monsters who hurt the innocent." Carrie nodded in understanding as Ryan continued, "But Aunt Lydia...I had a history with her. She was once my teacher. Mom and I considered her family. When I saw her again after so many years, I was just so angry. Next thing I knew I was strangling her, screaming at her. I remember the fear in her eyes, but I also saw myself." Ryan swallowed, "I looked like a monster. So, I let her go. She's now in Wrath's hands."
"But you couldn't forgive her." Carrie stated solemnly and understanding.
"No, it's impossible." Ryan replied, calming down after crying.
Carrie nodded, "Even though you can't forgive her, I'm glad you didn't kill her out of vengeance. While hurting the ones who wronged us does feel good, we end up poisoning ourselves in the process." She sighed as she closed her eyes, "We can't let vengeance get in the way of what's important. If we fall into that kind of temptation, the ones we enact it upon forever claim pieces of our souls until we are completely hollow."
Ryan nodded, knowing the girl's tragic history that brought her to this world. While he did not know the full details, he got the idea that her power killed someone who hurt her deeply.
Carrie sighed then smiled softly, "How do you feel now?"
"A little better. I'm not fully okay, but I'm getting there." Ryan admitted, feeling a weight off his shoulder after holding it in for so long.
"I'm glad you told me. Your mother would be proud of you." Carrie said as she gave him a comforting hug.
Ryan returned it as he leaned into her embrace. He always felt better when he talked to Carrie because she's not judgement and always lends an ear whenever something bothers him.
"Thanks Carrie." Ryan sniffled, "Sorry for dumping this on you in the middle of the party."
Carrie gave him a small laugh as she patted his shoulder. "Hey, it's fine. One of the requirements of this job is being a walking confessional. Plus, this is cheaper than therapy."
Ryan chuckled, "Still, thanks for listening."
Carrie sighed through her nose as she squeezed his shoulder before standing up. "C'mon, best we return to the party, your friends were looking for you. They were quite worried actually."
Ryan looked down with a guilty expression, "Yeah."
"Hey," Carrie cupped his face between her hands, "you're not alone here Ryan. People care about you more than you realize. And they will help you if you ask for it or when you need it."
"Yes ma'am." Ryan said then stood up as Carrie removed her hands from his face as they made their way back up the stairs. Carrie paused for a moment then told Ryan she will catch up as the younger returned back to the party.
Carrie glanced in the direction where a certain person was hiding. "You need not hide from me June Osborne."
June peeked from behind the wall. "How long did you know?"
"Since Ryan started crying." Carrie shrugged as walked over to June in calm strides.
"I wasn't spying, I was just-" June tried to come up with an excuse but couldn't find the right words.
Carrie gave her an understanding smile. "Not enjoying the party."
June opened her mouther then closed it. She shook her head, "No. I'm sorry." She drew in a breath, "After everything, it's just hard to let your guard down."
Carrie nodded with a look of sadness as she leaned her back on the balcony. "I understand. That's my fault, I didn't think this through. I should've given you a couple more days for you to adjust." She sighed, "I was just so excited to finally have you safe with us. When we couldn't find you after Angel's Flight, I feared the worst, and I just wanted you out of that hell hole. What you did was huge win for all of us. I thought we deserved a victory celebration." She looked down with a guilty expression.
June leaned over the balcony as she looked down at the shiny tile floor. "It's the thought that counts. And I do appreciate what you did for us, for my friends."
Carrie turned to her as she sensed something off inside the woman. "I feel so much pain from you." June looked at her as tears started to build from her eyes. She closed her eyes as she turned away.
"June," Carrie inched closer, "I feel your anguish, guilt, grief, and loss. I want to help you June, but I can't do that unless you tell me what happened."
June swallowed as she took in a shuddering breath then turned to the Saint who watched her with sad compassionate eyes. Unable to keep it inside anymore, she told Carrie everything...
Tears streamed down Carrie's face, but she wasn't full out sobbing. "Oh June, I'm so sorry. I can't believe...No..." Carrie shook her head as she gripped the wooden rails, " What am I saying? Of course, they would've done that and worse."
"I couldn't help her." June wept after she told the Saint what happened in that facility.
"No, you did what you thought was right." Carrie said, her heart aching for the woman who was separated from her eldest child again.
"What could I have done? They'd have hurt her if I didn't do what they said."
Carrie clenched her jaw as she shook her head. "Gilead. For all the pious shit they boast and how they wish to 'protect' children. Their lust for power destroys this country, humanity and God's meaning." She swallowed the lump in her throat and said, "I'm sorry you went through that, your daughter especially."
June was silent as she thought of her little girl, "She got so big, and so beautiful."
"How old was she when you were separated from her?" Carrie asked as she watched June with sadness and sympathy.
"Around five. She was ripped out of my arms when we tried to get across the border. I was knocked unconscious, but I still remember my baby screaming for mommy before I passed out." June swallowed her saliva, "She's ten now, she's getting older, very soon she'll-" She cut herself off when she remembered Esther Keyes and what happened to the young Wife. Seeing what will become of her daughter if she doesn't get her out of Gilead terrifies her more than anything.
"No." Carrie fiercely said, startling June who turned to the furious Saint in surprise. "That's not gonna happen. I won't let that happen." She vowed as figured what June was about to say, something she feared for every little girl trapped in Gilead.
"You can't give up on her." Carrie said as she edged closer to June, "Hannah is still in there. Gilead hasn't wiped out your baby girl just yet. Even if she can't remember you, she must know deep in her heart that she doesn't belong in Gilead, that she is NOT their property." She paced back and forth. "We can't give up on her. I don't care how we do it, but we're gonna get your little girl back. Gilead hasn't won, do you understand?"
June nodded as Carrie spoke. "If you're gonna fight with us, you fight for your little girl and for every child Gilead stole. Because all of us are gonna get them back. This I swear."
June still had tears running down her face as she was pulled into the Saint's embrace. She cried all the fear and anguish into the kind woman's arms. While she still experienced pain from separating from her child, she felt hope as Carrie held her tightly and tenderly.
Carrie pulled away to gently hold June's head as she rested their foreheads together. "We will get her back." Carrie vowed again as she wiped June's tears away. June closed her eyes for a long moment, basking in the sweet benevolent touch of this holy human being.
Carrie gave her small smile as she released her hold on June then guided her back to the party. "Let's go back. Your friends are no doubt worried about you."
June nodded, "Yeah, you're right."
Carried squeezed her arm, "Just for tonight, release all your emotions and be alive again."
They came closer to the party to hear cheers. Carrie's smile turned to exasperation when she saw a crowd gathered in a circle. "This again?"
June looked up in shock to see a man and woman sparring in the middle of the dancefloor that had a sparring mat rolled out for them to fight on. Amid the music, they threw punches and kicks, deflecting each other's attacks until one of them was pinned to the mat. The elicited cheers from the crowd as Carrie sighed as she shook her head, "This was supposed to be a dance party."
"This is normal?" June said as she watched the woman pull her opponent to his feet, both had good natured smiles before they invited another ono the mat and began a new sparring match.
"Yeah, unfortunately. They do this to show off their prowess and skill. Somehow this helps us connect to each other, get stronger, and entertain ourselves." Carrie stated as everyone drank and indulged themselves in these contests of strength and will.
June was entranced by the art of fighting, her body and soul thrummed at the idea of fighting and disarming her opponent until she came out the victor. How she longed to fight, to actually fight. Her mind traveled to the frightening night when Winslow attempted to rape her. He was bigger than her, but she managed to kill him with her wit and a pen, barely made it out by the skin of her teeth. She hated feeling weak and helpless, she wanted to learn how to fight with her body, turn it into a weapon rather than a vessel for offspring.
"Can you teach me how to fight?" June whispered to Carrie who watched her from the corner of her eye. She knew June was gonna ask so she wasn't surprised by the woman's desire to fight.
"I can't. But he can." Carrie turned her gaze to a young man standing at the corner of the mat, his arms crossed as he supervised the matches. He had a dark complexion, African American descent and was in his early twenties. "His name's Mathew Blue. He fought against Gilead during the Civil War after the takeover. He survived, thank God."
"Will he agree?" June asked as she followed her gaze to the young man. He had a stoic expression, but she could see some light in his eyes. Also, something that felt familiar about him.
"He will. After all, you got his mother out of Gilead." Carrie said with secretive smile.
"Who's his mother?"
"You'll know when you talk to him. You may begin your training in two days. Until then, take this time to rest." Carrie said as she pointed out where the other Handmaids were as they danced and sang along to karaoke.
June sighed as she went over her friends who greeted her with warm yet worried looks which melted away as June joined in on the fun. For now, she will enjoy life, but in two days, she will begin working to take down Gilead.
Wasn't sure how else to end this chapter. But I have to say, I'm quite happy to finally get here. As always, thanks for reading and leave a review.