Trouble Up North
Carrie had just returned with a new batch of liberated Handmaids, Guardians, Marthas and Jezebels when one of the soldiers came rushing towards her with an urgent look on his face.
"Your Holiness, you need to get to Communications. There's an emergency in Canada!" He explained in a rushed tone, but Carrie understood him perfectly as she rushed towards the conference room where video calls were made between the rebel groups and other countries.
Carrie arrived and answered the line as Alex and Mark Tuello came on the screen, his serious face held some anxiety that he was barely covering.
"Alex, Mr. Tuello." Carrie greeted as she stood in front of the screen as Mark made eye contact with her through the camera.
"It's about time. We've been trying to call you for two days." Mark said, looking more tired than ever.
"Sorry, I just got back from another liberation." Carrie explained with arms crossed, glaring slightly through the mask. "What did you need that was so important?"
"Your sister is here in Toronto." Mark answered with a stony expression as Carrie's eyes widened. "What? How can that be? She's supposed to be here fighting Gilead!"
"She's here for the Waterfords." Mark answered, "Alex and I have done our best to stall her, but we don't know how long we can hold her off."
"So, you're calling me to pick her up." Carrie stated dryly.
"Yes and no. I know you're dealing with a lot, but we need you to come here and talk to her." Mark said, looking desperate as he watched Carrie pace slightly.
"Talk to her? We haven't talked in two months, and we left it on a very bad note." Carrie said, ever since Esther left with Rachel after the young girl exacted her vengeance on one of the Aunts, their relationship became strained due to their ideals clashing regarding Esther's well-being and future. "Look, even if I did talk to her, she's not gonna listen to me. I tried last time, but she never budged."
Mark swallowed, looking hesitant as he struggled to form the words. "Serena's pregnant."
Carrie's eyes widened to the size of dinner plates as she registered the two words that should never go together in a sentence. "I'm sorry, there must've been a bad connection, but it sounded like you said that Serena Joy Waterford is pregnant?!"
"It's true. It's Fred's. She's carrying a boy. Six months along now. We're keeping this from the public." Mark answered as Carrie paced back and forth in front of the screen, her cloak flowing behind her as she digested his words.
"This cannot be possible. Fred Waterford is sterile, and Serena is infertile." Carrie stated as her mind reeled at this new bit of information.
"I'm just as bewildered as you. But Carrie, we need you here in Canada, just until your sister leaves. We may not be able to protect Fred from Wrath, but Serena, we don't know what your sister will do to the baby." Mark sighed through his nose. "This is an innocent life we're talking about here."
Carrie shook her head as she let out a long breath. "My sister is twisted, but she never harms children. But in recent events-" She cut herself off as she remembered Esther's face that morphed from pained, to utterly sadistic.
"I'll get there as soon as I can." Carrie said as Mark sighed in relief. She was about to end the call when a thought occurred to her. "Does Wrath know about Serena's pregnancy?"
"No, that's what worries me." Mark said as Carrie nodded. "Good. Keep Serena out of sight until then." She ended the call and leaned on the table, still reeling from this sudden turn of events.
Carrie knew she would need to face Wrath again. Their strained relationship affected the battlefield in numerous ways. More Guardians and Eyes betrayed Gilead and have supplied the rebels with more guns and soldiers on the promise of protection from Wrath's torture. Turncoat Aunts have begun sneaking Handmaids out of Gilead in the hopes of seeking leniency for their part in the regime. There was also an increase of rogue Commanders and their Wives creating safe houses and peacefully surrendered the districts to the rebels for the sake of survival. Those that foolishly continued their support for Gilead were met with severe punishment by an even angrier Wrath who now resorts to public torture on a gruesome level that left a pit in their stomachs. Her favorite and most perverse is stripping Gilead leaders naked and making them march barefoot in the streets for everyone to see. The war has reached a level where most of the country started to side with the rebels over Gilead.
Carrie shook her head; she was not ready to face her sister. After what happened with Esther, after failing to save the poor girl from taking the dark path, she wasn't sure in her ability to protect an innocent life from hate and anger.
Her thoughts went to Serena, one of the main causes of Gilead's creation. The last time she saw her was at Washington when she intervened on their mass prayer to get baby Nicole back. She barely spared her a glance, but she felt that woman's evil and spite all too well. It reminded her too much of her mother. But to learn that she was carrying a child...? It brought on a feeling of protectiveness she's never experience before. She didn't want to protect Serena, but she will prevent that child from being subjected to the same hate like her.
With a renewed determination, she sought out June Osborne. She needed support, assistance and give the woman a chance to see her family for a bit.
Carrie and June sat in the truck as it took them across the border. Rogue Guardians who secretly turned against the regime now control at least sixteen crossings, which made things easier for the rebels to get supplies from their Canadian brothers.
"Are you nervous?" June asked from beside her as Carrie stared out the window. She was dressed in white winter coat with fur-lines sleeves, hood and collar and reached just below her knees. White leather gloves, boots and a white scarf wrapped tightly around her lower face and nose. The only thing that wasn't white was a pair of sunglasses in her hand. She was ready for the cold, but not ready to show her face to the Canadians.
"A little." Carrie allowed that to be her answer as they watched the scenery go by.
"What about you?" Carrie asked as she glanced at June who looked more nervous than her.
"So many things." June sighed, "We exchanged letters because they last longer. He even sends pictures of him and Nicole." June smiled as she thought of her baby girl. "Honestly, I was hoping to see him again when I had Hannah with me." She said as she swallowed the lump in her throat.
Carrie grasped her hand in hers. "He'll understand, and he'll forgive you."
"How do you know that?" June asked, keeping her tears at bay.
"Because I know the woman he's married too." Carrie scooted closer, "No matter how much things have changed, you're still a part of each other. Gilead could not destroy that in a million years no matter how hard they tried. It is that kind of love that gives us hope to free Hannah."
June smiled and nodded after a moment. "Thank you."
Carrie smiled behind her scarf as she returned her attention back to the scenery mentally preparing herself for her meeting with Wrath.
Upon arriving in Toronto, they were greeted by Mark Tuello and Alex who sat in a wheelchair with security guards around them. Not too far behind Mark was a heavyset man with dark skin, looking hopeful and nervous at the same time.
"Saint White, June Osborne, welcome to Canada." Mark greeted them as the two women stepped out of the car. Carrie had her hood up, scarf and sunglasses, so it was impossible for anyone to see her face.
"Mr. Tuello. Thank you for receiving us." Carrie returned the greeting as she shook hands with Mark as Carrie stood slightly behind her, her face full of shock and love at the man behind Tuello.
"Ms. White, let me introduce-"
"Luke Bankole, June Osborne's husband, Hannah's father." Carrie said as she stared at Luke, her covered up face made the man uneasy, but he heard enough stories to know she was on their side.
June stepped forward with hesitance, years of never feeling his touch made her nervous. Tears shone in both of their eyes before she fell into her husband's arms, crying softly as she sank into his warmth. How they've missed each other after five long years of hell.
Carrie watched with a soft smile behind her scarf, seeing them have this moment brought a tea to her eye as she felt all the love roll off of them. June pulled away and turned to Carrie. "Luke, this is the leader of the Rebellion."
Luke bowed his head, "Thank you for taking care of my wife, and for everything."
"You're welcome. I'm also glad to meet you."
"Is it true that you..." He wiggled his fingers in the air.
Carrie chuckled before she clapped her hands twice. The trunk popped open, and their luggage floated out. Luke jumped in surprise and amazement as their suitcases were levitated into Carrie and June's hands.
"Whoa." Was all Luke could exclaim as the trunk closed by Carrie's will.
"Never gets old." Carrie said in a teasing manner as June laughed at Luke's expression.
Carrie turned to June, "You two go on ahead, I'll catch up with you later."
June's smile faded, "Are you sure you don't need me there?"
Carrie laid her hand on June's shoulder and gave her a reassuring squeeze. "I'll be fine, you go on ahead and enjoy yourself for a bit."
June was silent then nodded as she and Luke walked away with their arms linked.
Carrie turned to Mark and Alex before she took off her shades. "Where's my sister?"
Mark led the way as he wheeled Alex in front of him. "She's currently staying in a hotel that is currently under surveillance. She keeps asking for an audience with the Waterfords, but other than that, she's surprisingly patient."
"How long do you think that'll last?" Alex asked as Carrie walked beside them.
"Has she done anything?" Carrie asked since this is her sister she has to worry about.
"Well... Not here specifically. She hasn't killed anyone yet. So that's a good thing. But she..." Alex hesitated, unsure how else to describe the situation to the Saint who has to deal family issues in Canada.
Carrie sighed behind her scarf, "I'm about to meet with my vengeance seeking sister who plans to mutilate the Waterford thirteen ways to Judgement Day. I'm pretty sure whatever she's done before I got here isn't anything new."
Mark and Alex looked at each other, the expression on their faces told her that Wrath did something. "It's best we stop by the hospital first. Better for you to see for yourself." Mark said as they got in the black car and drove towards the hospital.
Carrie quickly changed out of her white winter coat into a more casual and thicker jacket. A beanie covered her head to protect her from the cold as they drove through Toronto. Carrie watched the world outside and noticed just how different it is here in Canada. There was no war, no pain, no fear, no guns, no colored uniforms. Everyone was just enjoying their lives together the way people should.
Alex watched the wonder in the girl's eyes as she took in Canada. "Was our country like this before Gilead?" Carrie asked, unable to take her gaze away from the people who never bore the weight of war.
"Yes." Alex answered, "It's been almost six years now. But we still remember how it was before."
Carrie had a small melancholy smile. "Wish I had those memories."
Mark watched through the rearview mirror at Carrie's wistful expression. It was no surprise to him that this girl grew up in a small town and was kept locked away for most of her life until that night of Black Prom. After reading her school file, police report, and 'death certificate', courtesy of the undertaker Alex, he understood why this girl never truly experienced the outside world with normal people. The only normal she knows is war and conflict in a ravaged country she awakened to after sleeping for over ten years.
"Our country will be as it was before thanks to you." Mark said as he drove them towards the hospital, "Rebel groups have increased around the country, uprisings in the South, and the Battle of Las Vegas is still raging. Before long, we'll have our country back."
"That's a comforting thought, but I'd rather not talk about the future when we have to worry about the present right now." Carrie said with a frown as they approached the hospital. They got out of the car where Mark pushed Alex through the automatic doors as Carrie walked beside them. Carrie's eyes shifted to the doctor who approached them, he looked uneasy, as though he saw something terrible.
"Mr. Tuello, Mr. Grace, welcome back."
"How's he doing?" Mark asked as Carrie glanced at him in confusion, wondering who 'he' is.
The doctor sighed, "We had to sedate him again."
"'Again?'" Alex asked as they followed the doctor down the hall until they were met by two security guards outside a room.
The two guards glanced at each other before one of them pulled out a key card and unlocked the door. The doctor led them in Mark rolled Alex into the room followed by Carrie whose attention was drawn to the curtains surrounding the bed. The doctor slowly approached the curtain and carefully moved it until he fully revealed what was once a man sleeping on the bed.
A hand flew to Carrie's mouth at the sight of him. This man, no, this creature, his arms and right leg, left eye were completely gone. He had severe third-degree burns all over his scalp, chest, neck and what was left of his ear. The only thing keeping him together were fresh set of bandages wrapped around the stumps and disfigured face with only his mouth and right eye visible.
"His name's Judd, he is a Commander of Gilead and one of the Sons of Jacob." Mark explained as Carrie continued to stare at this disfigured creature. "Wrath captured him after he killed a third child bride. Well, she did this to him, took away his thing so he wouldn't rape another child."
Carrie walked around the bed, taking in the machines he was attached to. "How is he still alive, and why is he here in Canada?"
"She gave him to us as a gift." Alex shrugged, not feeling sympathetic towards the pedophile.
Carrie turned to Mark, "She gave him to you?"
"Yes, she said she was bored of him, and told us that he'll give us any information that could be valuable to us." Mark said as he watched the pedophilic traitor.
Carrie nodded in understanding the turned to the Commander, "He's not gonna hurt anyone anymore. His body is now his prison, that is, if he continues to breathe."
"This is only one Commander she gave us." Mark said, making Carrie turn to him with curiosity. "She has fourteen more captured Commanders and Eyes she is willing to trade the Waterfords for."
Carrie's eyes widened in understanding, "That's why she's here."
"Yes, but given Serena's condition, we can't hand her over. She wants both of them, or she won't give us the Commanders she has waiting for us just on the other side of the border." Mark explained the full situation as Carrie began to understand why she is needed for this.
"You want me to convince her to just take Fred, is that right?" Carrie asked as they left the room, having gotten enough of the sight of that man.
"This may be our chance to get any and all intel on the inner workings of their government." Mark said as he wheeled Alex out of the hospital and towards the car. Once they were all situated in the vehicle, they can fully discuss this dilemma.
"Okay, fourteen Gilead Commanders and Eyes for two Waterfords. I don't suppose she's gonna settle for anything less." Carrie stated as she buckled her safety belt. The sight of that Commander sent a pit into her stomach, she was mildly afraid to see the state of the other prisoners Wrath has at her disposal.
"To her, it's a take it or leave it deal. We thought that maybe you could talk to her, negotiate with her." Mark said, "If you could convince her to just have Fred and she gives us seven of the ones she captured, it may just give us an edge on Gilead."
"Information is power. Wrath knows how to play on that." Carrie said as she leaned back in her seat as she contemplated the deal her sister is offering the Americans.
"Carrie, I know your relationship with your sister has staggered over what happened with Esther, but we need you to reason with her. Help us get the information and protect Serena's unborn baby." Mark said as he leaned over the back of the driver's seat.
Carrie sighed through her nose as she wove her fingers together, a habit she developed when she goes over plans or when she shows she is not a threat to somebody. After a long moment of pondering and trying to figure out the right solution that would benefit everyone, she opened her eyes with a look of certainty. "I think I know how to convince her. Could you take me to her hotel?"
Carrie stood in front of the room her sister was staying in, trying to gain the courage to talk to her only blood relative as she knocked on the door. She heard the door unlock before it swung open, but there was no one there to greet her. Carrie entered the room to find modest and comfortable decor and a single bed in the middle. By the window sat a familiar darkly dressed woman who had a book in her hand. The door closed behind her with a wave of Rachel's fingers as she looked up to see her older sister standing right by the bed.
"Carrie, what a pleasant surprise." Rachel said cordially as she bookmarked a page.
"You don't look surprised." Carrie observed as she walked towards her sister and sat in the other chair overlooking the window.
"No, I'm not. I figured it was only a matter of time before good ol' Tuello called you here to stop me from making a mess. What a good older sister you are." Rachel said as she leaned back in her chair like she has control of the situation.
"I'm not here to fight you Rachel, I just want to talk." Carrie said as she glanced out the window, the people down below really had no idea the real threat that is happening beyond the border. "I went to the hospital and saw Commander Judd. You really destroyed him."
"I was merely paying him back all the little girls he defiled. The third child bride was one too many. Truly a disgusting creature. He will spend the rest of his miserable life trapped in that body." Rachel said, satisfied with her work as Carrie nodded solemnly. "As much as I detest your methods, I cannot find it within myself to feel compassion for that man."
Rachel smirked, "I'm glad we agree on something."
Carrie sighed through her nose, "I heard about the deal you're offering. Fourteen Commanders and Eyes in exchange for the Waterfords."
"Yes, though the Americans are hesitant to take the deal." Rachel stated as she leaned her temple on her fist.
"They're more than willing to trade Fred for those guys, but they cannot give you Serena. Not yet at least." Carrie said as she shook her head.
"Hmph, and why not? Either both of them, or the breathing piles of information won't go to the Americans."
Carrie swallowed as she released the secret to Rachel, "Serena's pregnant, currently six months with a baby boy inside her."
Rachel was silent as she absorbed this astonishing bit of information Carrie just handed to her. A hand flew to her mouth as a snicker escaped her before she threw her head back in hysterical laughter. Carrie watched, mildly disturbed by her reaction as the laughter went on for a good two minutes before Rachel calmed down enough to speak, but the smirk still remained on her face.
"So, the Rapist Queen is pregnant." Rachel said as a venomous grin splayed over her face. "That is surprising. But then again, God works in mysterious ways."
"Indeed, he does." Carrie agreed then said, "Now you know why they can't hand Serena to you. You have every right to want her dead, but the baby is innocent. No child should carry the sins of their parents, you and I know that all too well." She added, playing on their tragic conceptions and what it did to their birth mothers.
A look of hurt flashed within Rachel's eyes, but she quickly squashed it. "You're right. I won't hold the child accountable. In fact," A devious grin came onto her face. "This pregnancy presents an opportunity. God chose this exact moment for her to become pregnant because He knew that is what she's wanted for a long time. Whether that baby lives or dies is up to Him, but one thing we all know is she will never be a mother." She smirked, "What better punishment than to rip away her precious baby from her arms the exact same way she tore our children from ours. Beautiful poetic justice befitting that evil."
"Yes, and I'll make sure you get the first opportunity to watch it happen." Carrie said, surprising Rachel. "We can't give you Serena just yet, but when the time comes and her child comes into the world, you will be the first to witness Serena Joy lose her chance at motherhood as her son is taken far beyond her reach."
Rachel was shocked by how Carrie spoke but couldn't help but find this side of her endearing. "Is that the deal you're presenting me?"
"Yes. We'll settle with half of the prisoners you offer in exchange for Waterford if you postpone your vengeance upon Serena." Carrie negotiated with Rachel.
Rachel chuckled under her breath, "I have a better one. All fourteen, in exchange for Fred, and an audience with Serena Joy." She counter offered, wanting the opportunity to meet the woman who hurt her mother.
Carrie was silent as she thought over the deal, "Very well. I'll take this up with Tuello, have him arrange the meeting, but I must be present when you talk to her."
"Perfect. We'll make the prisoner exchange after I talk with Serena." Rachel agreed, not surprised her sister would want to be there to monitor them.
"It sounds fair. I'm glad we reached a compromise." Carrie said as she stood up as Rachel remained in her seated position.
"Likewise, I'll see you soon." Rachel waved farewell as Carrie walked out the door.
Carrie stood in the chapel of the holding facility the Waterfords were kept in as she waited for Serena to arrive. She stared up at the cross in her Saint ensemble, praying for patience and the strength to endure this exchange she will monitor in case Wrath flew off the handle. She heard a beep then the door unlocks as footsteps entered the chapel. Saint White slowly turned around to see the woman who destroyed her country. No longer was she wearing blue, but she was still the same monster.
Serena Joy Waterford held a shocked expression at the sight of the Saint, the very woman who defied Gilead and protected the Handmaids and Marthas. "It's you. Saint White."
The Saint wove her fingers together, her cloak swished around her as she turned to face Serena fully. "Yes, hello Serena." The Saint said, her voice low and without emotions.
Serena's hand traveled to her bump as she dared approach the Saint. "I didn't expect God to send you here."
"He has bigger problems to worry about, cleaning up the mess you made of my homeland." The Saint stated with a stern look in her eye that made Serena small.
"Are you here because of me?" Serena asked in her ever-calm voice as she tried to look respectable to God's Holy Soldier.
"No, I came because of her."
Before Serena could ask, a chill went down her spine as the door behind her opened again then closed. "Hello." A menacing sickening sweet voice filled the room as Serena turned around to see a young woman dressed in black with a sadistic smirk and malevolent gleam in her eyes as she leaned her hand on the chair. Her eyes widened gradually when she recognized the woman from the pictures, the daughter of the first Handmaid her household had.
"You're..." Serena couldn't form a sentence as she struggled to keep her composure before the daughter of the first Offred.
Wrath's smirk widened, "Yes, the Wrath of God." She threw her hands up in the air dramatically.
"Why are you here?" Serena asked as she backed away slightly, her hand hold her bump protectively.
"Oh, I just wanted to meet you face-to-face. But first of all, congratulations are in order." She slowly made her way further into the room, sounding laid back and non-threatening. "God has deemed you worthy to carry his bounty. Praised be His mercy."
"Praised be. I thank God every day for this blessing." Serena said, keeping any emotion off her face as she felt fear rising in her veins at the smirk.
Wrath scoffed, "Is it really a blessing?" She asked as Serena backed away until she was standing off to the Saint's side while Wrath stood on the other. "A blessing can easily turn into a punishment."
Serena turned to the Saint, her eyes begging her for protection. "I'm only here to make sure she doesn't kill you by accident." Serena gulped at the cold answer as she turned to the Wrath who stood unmoving as she observed the pregnant woman.
"Why are you here?" Serena asked as she fought to suppress the shudder that wanted to come over her body.
"You know who I am, or rather, you know who my mother was, and what you did to her." Wrath said with cold eyes glaring at her.
Serena's stomach dropped ten feet below. "I-I didn't realize she was the mother of God's Wrath."
"Whether you knew or not hardly matters. You made her life hell; you caused her death." Wrath stated as she breathed deeply. "When my birth mother killed herself and left me as an orphan, I didn't think I would ever be worthy of another person's love, not after learning I was conceived from rape. But Sue Snell came along and welcomed me into her family. She and her daughter gave me unconditional love and guidance and asked for nothing in return." Tears glistened in her eyes as she clenched her teeth behind pursed lips. "Sue was a good person, she was kind, and I loved her. And you took her from me. How could you do that?" She glared through tears that spilled out.
Serena's eyes glistened with her own tears. "I'm sorry." She sank to her knees as she stared up at the woman she hurt. "I'm begging you and God for your forgiveness, and I'm begging for the Lord's mercy." She said, hoping beyond everything that Wrath would forgive her and leave her and the baby peacefully.
Wrath laughed hysterically as she glared hatefully at Serena. "You honestly believe that you of all people can be given redemption by speaking God's name?" She stared at Serena in utter disgust. "You stupid little girl." She slowly said to the woman who looked hurt at those words, but they were only the beginning. "You've done absolutely nothing to earn my forgiveness. You're not gonna gain His mercy either. Hell, not even hers." Wrath added as she tilted her head in the Saint's direction.
Wrath slowly stalked towards Serena as the ground trembled beneath them. "You took everything from me." She seethed as she shook with repressed anger, "My home, my country, my life, my humanity, my identity, my family, my whole world IS GONE! BECAUSE OF YOU!" Her voice rose higher and higher until she screamed, shaking the whole facility and causing everything in the chapel to fly around. Serena ducked incase the chairs flew at her, her face filled with terror as she stared up at the Wrath whose eyes were dark with hate and anger as tears flowed down her face. Her hair raised and moved around her, making her look demonic. "EVERYTHING I HAD, EVERYTHING I LOVED WAS DESTROYED BECAUSE OF YOU!" A crack in the ceiling snaked all the way to the walls.
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" Serena started sobbing as she covered her head and curled around her pregnant belly in an effort to protect it.
"'SORRY' WILL NEVER GIVE ME BACK MY MOTHER!" Wrath shrieked through her tears as the windows shattered and glass flew everywhere.
A hand firmly grasped Wrath's shoulder, making the shaking stop and everything in the room to float in the air. Dust fell from the crack above them as Wrath turned to the Saint who gave her a stern gaze. "Enough, you made your point very clear." She turned her emotionless stare towards a curled-up Serena who continued sobbing in fear.
Wrath took shuddering breaths as she calmed down enough to be rational as she slowly crouched down to Serena's level and grasped her chin, forcing her to look up at her hate-filled gaze. Tears streamed down Serena's cheeks, making her look weak and pathetic. "This fear you feel now is only the beginning of what true hell is. I don't care whether that baby inside you lives or dies. I'll leave that up to God to decide. But know this Serena Waterford, you will lose this baby, that I promise you. For the pain you caused my mother and all the mothers of my country, you will experience the worst kind agony of losing the one thing your black heart desires." She whispered the last part with vicious glee at the horror that overtook Serena's face.
Wrath rose to her feet, satisfied with her talk as she walked away from Serena and out of the room.
The Saint sighed at the mess her sister left behind. "Well, that could've gone better. But at least she didn't kill anybody in the chapel." She turned to Serena who wept on the floor.
"Crying will never bring you sympathy Serena. You're far beyond deserving of it." The Saint scolded as Serena lifted her head up to look at the Holy Soldier who watched her with scorn.
"You should consider yourself lucky. Wrath came here to trade a number of mutilated Commanders and Eyes who hold intel in exchange for you and your husband." Serena's eyes widened at the explanation as the Saint continued, "I've seen what she's done to a pedophilic Commander, now he's trapped in his disfigured broken body forever. That's a fate worse than death itself. What she does to the Wives can only be left to the imagination, but I'm pretty sure it's just as bad." She sighed, "Thankfully I was able to convince her not to take you as of yet, so you and the baby are safe for now."
Serena hiccupped, "Thank you, you're most gracious and merciful."
"I didn't do it for you. I did for your son and for Wrath. I don't want her to lose what's left of her soul."
Serena bowed her head as tears stained the ground. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. Please I'm..." She hiccupped as she sobbed, "I'm begging you, Wrath, and God for forgiveness. All I ever wanted was a baby. I never meant for any of this to happen." She begged as she tried to excuse her actions.
"But you did. It's what you've always done." The Saint said, unaffected by her display of 'remorse'. "I never took the time to talk to you before now because I was busy cleaning up the mess you made to my country. I wanted to meet the woman responsible for destroying the lives of my people. Seeing you now, I expected better." Serena looked up at the Saint. "All the gifts God gave you and you squandered it. You defiled His faith, weaponized it upon His children, and violated His good name. The love for the faith you preached, it's not inside you, there is no love of God within you. There is nothing but spite, hate, envy, and malice inside that dark soul of yours. No woman who carries that kind of evil is worthy of being a mother and will never be worthy of entering His kingdom."
Serena started to hyperventilate as the realization came crashing over her. "No, no please." She shook her head as she grasped the end of the Saint's cloak and pleaded, "Please, I'm sorry, let me redeem myself, I'll change, please. Just don't let them take my baby."
The Saint watched her coldly at her pathetic attempts to sway her. "No Serena, you were offered many chances for redemption, but you never took any of them." She pulled her cloak out of Serena's grasp. "You have disappointed Him one too many times, and you've insulted His name for far too long. All that is left for you is damnation for all the sins you've committed in His name. But rest assured, your child will never pay for your sins, that I promise you." She turned away as Serena shook from head to toe while holding her pregnant belly.
"You started this war, Serena, now it's only a matter of time before me or Wrath finishes it. Blessed be the fruit." With a swish of her cloak, she left the damaged chapel and a sobbing woman to wallow in her misery and self-pity.
Carrie found her sister on top of the rooftop of the facility who talked on the phone, giving her subordinates instructions to bring their prisoners close to the border.
Rachel ended the call as her older sister approached. "You seem quite happy."
"Indeed, I am. It felt really good letting my anger out on that bitch." Rachel said with a relieved sigh.
"You also destroyed the chapel."
"Collateral damage. God has forgiven worst sins." Rachel shrugged as Carrie leaned against the edge of the roof and watched the people below.
"I had a few words with her myself."
Rachel raised an eyebrow, "How'd that go?"
"Not to brag, but my disappointment in her hurt her far worse than your rage. She was begging and crying by the time I walked out of the chapel." Carrie explained, remembering the feeling of hopelessness she felt from Serena.
Rachel smirked in satisfaction, "Savage. I heard you brought June Osborne with you. Isn't she gonna come visit her former mistress?" Rachel asked, hoping to rattle Serena even more.
Carrie shook her head, "No, I thought it best for her to visit her family, let her see baby Nicole before we return to battle."
"You really like June." Rachel stated as she watched Carrie's face now free of the mask.
"She is who my mother should've been. Brave, determined, but most of all loving and devoted. A woman who fights through hell for her daughters is worthy of the title 'mother'." Carrie said as she gazed at the ground below them.
Rachel frowned with a look of understanding. "Amen to that."
Carrie sighed, "Could you do something for me when you return to Purgatory?"
"It depends." Rachel said as she gave her sister her undivided attention.
"I need you to help me look for June's eldest daughter, Hannah Bankole, but in Gilead her slave name is Agnes MacKenzie." Carrie explained with a look of desperation.
Rachel groaned slightly, "You want me to look for a little girl among all the children Gilead stole. That's a tall order sister."
"She's eleven years old now, Rachel. How much longer until she flowers?" Carrie stated, "We're running out of time."
Rachel clenched her eyes, knowing what she means by that sentence alone. The same fear and heartbreak she felt for her sister up until the moment she literally crashed that wedding to a much older man.
"Rachel, you owe me for what happened with Esther." Carrie stated glaring slightly at her sister.
Rachel opened her eyes to see how serious Carrie is about finding Hannah for June. With an exasperated sigh, she relented, "I'll see what I can dig up. But I'm not making any promises."
Carrie nodded, "That's good enough for me."
Carrie sat in the back of the car that would serve as transportation for Fred Waterford as she tapped her foot on the metal as she heard argument outside before the doors opened and the Commander was shoved inside. Fred's eyes widened before he slammed himself back against the metal wall as the door locked shut, trapping him with the Saint.
"Hello Commander Waterford. Remember me?" Carrie greeted politely as a part of her enjoyed the traumatic look on his face, no doubt reliving that horrifying moment he was literally sent skywards then plummeted back to the Earth.
Fred looked shaken as he sat across the Saint who looked quite comfortable in this small space. "You...Why are you here?" Fred struggled to get the question out as the van began to move.
"I'm here to make sure you don't do anything foolish. Like say commit suicide before we get to the border." Carrie explained with calm neutral eyes behind her mask.
Fred's eyes widened upon hearing that sentence. "What?"
Carrie nodded as Fred shook his head in denial. "No, they-they can't do this. My wife's pregnant. My son needs me!"
"It's already done, Commander."
Fred looked out the window angrily, watching the distance widen between him and his family. "If you think they'll separate a father from his son, you're mistaken. Gilead will take my side in this; they won't let my son be raised in this country." He said vehemently while glaring at the Saint, his fear replaced by outrage over leaving his son.
"You're not going to Gilead." Carrie informed him. Watching his face morph from anger to confusion. "I said I'll escort you to the border. But you won't be handed over to Gilead. No, they'll only send you to be Salvaged."
Something in Fred told him that something worst was coming to him. "What are you saying?"
Carrie didn't allow a smile to grace her youthful features. She didn't want to show her pleasure in seeing his reaction. "You've been traded to God's Wrath in exchange for fourteen Commanders and Eyes. All of whom carry much more valuable intel than what you can offer."
Fred's face contorted confusion, denial, anxiety, fear, and outright terror as he started to struggle against the handcuffs. "No, NO! You can't do this! Let me out! Please!" He hyperventilated as he started kicking at the door in a vain attempt to escape. He knew the Wrath's reputation, and her connection to the first Offred of his household. His worst fears have finally become reality.
Carrie sighed then held her hand up, halting Fred's struggles as he was forced to sit upright and face the Saint's disappointed eyes. Her lips turned into a frown. "We will not be having tantrums in this van Fred Waterford." She said in a way a woman scolds a misbehaving toddler.
Fred was uncomfortable being held by an invisible force, so he nodded in order to free himself from the unseen constriction.
Carrie placed her hand back in her lap, releasing Fred from her hold. "That's better."
But Fred wasn't calm at all, so he resorted to doing something he never thought he would do for a woman, beg. "Your Holiness, please, you can't send me to the Wrath. My family needs me."
"Your fate has already been sealed Commander. As you sow, so shall you reap." Carrie said as she regarded Fred with contempt.
"Do you have any idea what she'll do to me?" Fred asked hysterically as nightmares of being tormented by the first Offred's sadistic daughter came to mind.
"Oh, I know. I've seen her work firsthand. I've also seen what she's done to a pedophilic Commander named Judd." His eyes widened upon recognizing that name. One of the Sons of Jacob, but more importantly, one of the reasons while they were able to successfully take the country for themselves. "He can no longer rape, and he can no longer move of his own will. His body is his prison, and his appearance is exactly what he is on the inside, something that isn't human, or even of God."
Fred's eyes bugged out of his skull at the very image she painted for him as she sighed tiredly. "I don't expect the others Wrath is ready to trade for you are doing any better. Though their accommodations here will be much preferable compared to Purgatory. Trapped inside their own flesh is punishment enough."
"Saint, please." Fred swallowed as he realized the true horror that awaits him at the border.
Carrie looked down at him despite him being a head taller than her. "All the women you've raped begged the same thing. Freedom. But you never gave that to them. All you've done is rape, humiliated, and enslaved." She leaned back, crossing her arms as she frowned at him. "Do you wanna know what your first mistake was?" She paused to glare at him behind her mask, "You thought you were untouchable as long as you spoke God's name. You even believed yourself to be a God. But no, there's not a piece of Him or His love within you. You're nothing more than a little man trying to grab onto all the power you never deserved. You and your wife have mocked, disgraced and disappointed God for too long. Power comes with a price, and your payment is due."
Fred bowed his head as everything came back to haunt him. All the power he used over women, even his own wife, has been stripped away from him. Now, he'll be facing the consequences of those actions before a vengeful demon inside a woman's body. What's worse, he'll be far away from his son. A miracle child he thought he and Serena could never conceive.
His eyes clenched shut as tears escaped him. "I have a son. A son!" He desperately pleaded to the Saint in a pathetic attempt to sway her into helping him.
"So did the Handmaids." Carrie fired back, not even moved by his genuine love for his unborn child. "My one and only gift to you is reassurance that your son will be safe from God's Wrath."
Though Fred felt the pain of being taken from his only child, he let out a shaky breath of relief, "Thank you."
"I didn't do it for you. He's the main reason why I came to this country in the first place." Carrie began, "That boy is innocent in all this, and should not have to shoulder the sins you and your wife have committed. Once he is born, he will live a life free from Gilead's evil, especially you."
Fred swallowed as he listened to the Saint describe a much better future for his son. While it pained him to be away from his child, a part of him dared hope that he would see him one day. "Can you tell him I love him? Tell him that his papa misses him every day, and how I wish to see him. Tell him all the things I've done before Gilead. Let him know-"
"No." Carrie cut him off coldly. "I'll let him know how much his parents loved him. But he will never know your name." Shock was written all over Fred's face at the Saint's cruel statement.
Then, as if to add insult to injury, the van stopped. Carrie's head turned to the window as she sensed multiple people outside. "It would seem your farewell committee is here." Not a moment later, the doors opened to reveal Mark Tuello whose hand was held out for Carrie to take. She allowed herself to be helped out of the van and politely thanked the gentleman while another shoved Fred out of the van and marched him towards the bridge.
Fred had a scowl on his face as he glared at Tuello and Carrie as he was forcibly moved. Guards were everywhere, making it impossible for him to escape. But what caught his attention was a familiar blonde woman with blue-green eyes, a chilling smile on her lips.
"Offred?" Fred rasped out as June came to join them in escorting the man towards his doom. She didn't say a word. Nothing had to be said as she watched Fred's face fill with horror as they got to the middle.
As they got close to the line that marked the border, they saw a woman in black, looking like death itself as she awaited her latest victim. Her hood covered her head, but it did not hide the sheer malevolence on her face. She was flanked by two of her guards, both wearing demon masks and dark clothes. Fred instinctively dug his heel into the concrete, but he was shoved forward forcefully until they stood before the Wrath of God.
Silence fell between them like the borderline. Wrath's smirk was permanent as she locked eyes with the terrified Fred Waterford. "Hello Freddy." Her sweet sadistic voice sent shivers down his spine, petrifying his soul as all breath left his system.
"Did you bring what you promised?" Carrie asked, glancing between the near-quaking Commander and her sister.
Her blue eyes met Carrie's, smirk widening before she raised her hand and gave a signal with her fingers. A moment later, the sound of squeaking wheels and something being dragged across the gravel approached them. Fred's eyes squinted as a parade of wheelchairs and gurneys came closer, each holding a body. His heartbeat increased when he got a good look at them. They didn't look human at all. Many of them were missing limbs, were burned beyond recognition, some of them were either half-blind or completely blind or lost an ear. A few of them in particular no longer had flesh on their cheeks; teeth and gum completely exposed for all to see. Many of them groaned and cried in agony as they were taken across the border to suffer a much nicer prison compared to Purgatory.
"If there's one thing this woman never lacks is imagination." Carrie commented, fighting the bile that wanted to come up her throat.
"You're-You're sick." Fred was on the verge of hysteria at the sight of his fellow Commanders. "You're fucking twisted!"
Wrath didn't seem offended by that outburst. In fact, she looked proud as she watched her handiwork leave her care. Her gaze turned back to Fred, bringing back the chill that threatened to strangle him. She took a slow taunting step forward, making Fred shrink back in fear. "'When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers. A man who strays from the path of understanding comes to rest in the company of the dead. He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich.'" She quoted from the Bible as a way to mock him, letting him know who holds all the cards here.
"Your time has come." Wrath raised her hand and beckoned him toward her. Fred released a sharp gasp when he was lifted off the ground and carried across the border in the real hell waiting. "There are some ladies from that Jezebels looking forward to seeing you again."
Fred's eyes widened as he started to struggle in the invisible grip he was in. He turned back to the Canadian border where June smirked at him and waved goodbye and the Saint gave him that cold look. "Your Holiness! Please! Kill me! Please!" Fred screamed, begging to be spared from a horrifying fate.
"But I don't owe you a kindness." Carrie shook her head as June reveled in Fred's misery as he was carried further away from the border, screaming for someone, anyone to end his life.
"This was better than I would've imagined." June said, still smirking at her abuser who's about to endure a fitting punishment.
"Anything that helps you sleep at night." Carrie said as she turned her back to the border and walked further into the north with June and Tuello following behind her.
The following morning at the hotel Rachel previously frequented, Carrie and Mark spoke privately.
"Where's Alex?" Carrie asked when her advisor didn't accompany the man. She was currently stirring her tea as she sat at the table.
"Physical therapy. He was pretty stubborn about it." Mark grumbled to himself, remembering how the amputated man argued against needing physical therapy when there's much work to be done.
Carrie laughed softly, "He's a workaholic. I understand he tends to give you a hard time, I hope you'll forgive him."
"He's a good coworker honestly." Mark stated as he sat in the chair across from Carrie within the hotel she's staying at. "Also, thank you for reigning your sister in."
"It was frighteningly easy." Carrie sighed as she set down her spoon, "I had to play on her sadistic nature to get her to agree. She hates Serena so much."
"Your sister broke the chapel." Mark deadpanned at the sheepish girl.
Carrie sipped her tea, "My sister needed to unleash all that pent up rage. I'm just glad she didn't kill Mrs. Waterford by accident."
Mark nodded, "Speaking of, Serena was pretty shaken up when I brought her back to her room." He informed Carrie, remembering how the woman who destroyed their country was a sobbing mess as she knelt before the cross, begging God to save her.
"Rachel screamed at her. Cursed her to be more precise." Carrie added as she vividly remembered the turbulent emotions Rachel gave off as she unleashed her fury upon the woman who got Sue Snell killed.
"What about you? Did you say anything to her?" Mark asked, needing the details just in case.
Carrie sighed through her nose, "She was begging me for forgiveness, to let her keep her baby." She shook her head, "I admonished her for her actions, for all the sins she committed in God's name." She paused for a moment, "I thought I would be angry at her for what she did to my country. But all I felt was disappointment. There's nothing good within her. No remorse, no guilt. It's just darkness."
Mark's face held the same disappointment when he learned of her actions when forcing Nick Blaine and June Osborne to conceive.
Carrie stared at the table between them, "While I hold no hope for Serena, I pray to God for her son to never carry the sins of his mother and father. No child should ever shoulder their parents' crimes." She said with compassion and sympathy for the unborn child.
"You speak from personal experience." Mark stated as she watched Carrie smile ruefully.
"You know who I really am... what I've done all those years ago."
Mark frowned and leaned forward, "You were pushed to your limit. All the constant abuse, the bullying; anyone can crack under that strain."
Carrie closed her eyes as she remembered that night, "All the people who hurt me for years, and the ones who I barely knew, who never even came close to me." She swallowed, "I'll have to face those crimes sooner or later."
"You won't have to." Mark stated very strongly, "For all intents and purposes, Carrie White died in her own house. You're not that person anymore."
"I won't be the Saint forever though." Carrie shook her head, "This 'Holy Soldier' persona...won't be needed once Gilead is brought down. I'll no longer be needed."
"Carrie, you are more than your powers. It is you that has brought us this far, you help everyone in so many ways and never asked for anything for yourself in return. You gave everyone something to fight for." Mark sighed and looked down, "We owe everything to you. I don't know how it all plays out after it's all over, but I swear to do everything I can to ensure your safety."
Carrie smiled slightly, "That is most kind of you Mr. Tuello. It has been my honor to fight for God and country." Ever since she first met him when she got the first Handmaid across the border, they had a good working relationship. Him being a representative of the American Government worked out better than she realized as they supplied each other with information that helps them win the war. She knew their government needs her for her powers and how she is a strong figurehead within the top two most powerful resistance groups. She doesn't mind being the game piece that helps them win their country back.
Mark smiled back, grateful to her for all the help she gave their people. But there was another matter he needed to discuss with her in person, one he fears will determine the future of their race as a whole.
Mark swallowed, "Ms. White, there's something I need to inform you about."
Carrie set down her tea and leaned back, "I'm listening."
Mark took a deep breath and exhaled, "We received reports in Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, and North Carolina about strange events, the kind that...scientists can't explain properly." He struggled to find the right words to explain to Carrie.
"What events exactly?" Carrie asked when she caught the nervous intrigue from the man.
Mark was hesitant before he answered, "Rocks falling from the sky."
Carrie's eyes widened slowly as she breathed out a shaking breath.
Mark frowned, "The only incident ever documented was at Chamberlain, Maine, specifically at the White Bungalow."
Carrie closed her eyes and breathed out through her nose. She remembered that day too clearly, her first memory if she's being honest. She was only three years old at the time. She was only talking to her neighbor, Estelle Horan, who was sunbathing in her backyard. Little Carrie liked her because she was pretty and nice. But Margaret detested her, calling her a slut as she brought Carrie back inside. Moments later, stones fell from the sky, hitting only their house.
Carrie opened her eyes and stared at Mark, "Where were these incidents? And when?"
Mark pulled out a folder from his briefcase and opened it before presenting it to Carrie. "Five months now. Most of these rocks fell upon certain areas, mainly on the houses themselves. Other times, the schools for daughters of Commanders teaching them Domestic Arts." He explained as Carrie looked through the files with wide eyes, pictures of stone piles around the houses and the schools.
"The houses they struck," Carrie looked up, "they all had a daughter in them." She concluded, her mind awash with millions of questions.
Mark nodded, "The incident from your childhood was the first sign of your powers manifesting. We believe the same is happening to these girls."
Carrie placed a hand on her mouth as she stared at the pictures, "How has Gilead responded to this?"
Mark shrugged, "They believe it's an Act of God. As for the daughters involved in these events, they're safe for now. Gilead has not drawn the connection."
Carrie gently closed the folder, "Not yet they haven't. But it's only a matter of time before a stressful moment causes their powers to lash out." A grim look cast over her face, "I fear the second Gilead realizes this, they will have these children executed." She made eye contact with Mark, "Gilead is all about power and abusing God's name to justify their heinous crimes. They don't care about the children." She stated with anger towards Gilead.
Mark stated, "They will fear another Saint and Wrath will rise."
Carrie sighed as she calmed down, "Thank you for informing me."
Mark nodded, "We're still not sure how this is even possible. We thought you and your sister were the only ones." He swallowed and let out a breath, "Before you return to Gilead, we would like to run a few tests with your blood." Carrie stared at him silently before he added, "We don't know how this came to be. Whether it's from God or, some kind of evolutionary strain, or a biological reaction to the pollution, these girls will grow up trying to figure out their powers."
Carrie contemplated his reason and explanation. She never had the teachings or preparations with her powers, and she wasn't in an ideal environment. These girls are trapped in something far worse. For intents and purposes, she is a prime example of what instability and loss of control can result in. And she wants to prevent similar incidents, or at least, keep them from becoming like her sister.
"When shall these tests be done?"
Carrie massaged her arm where her blood was drawn as she stood before the house within the neighborhood Little America. This is where June is staying before they have to return to battle. Walking up the steps, she knocked on the door and took a step back.
She didn't have to wait long before the door opened and revealed a very familiar redhead with an eyepatch.
Janine smiled brightly and threw her arms around Carrie, squealing in laughter. "It's so good to see you again!"
Carrie laughed softly as she returned the woman's embrace. "Oh Janine, it has been too long."
Janine pulled back, her smile never left her beautiful face before she ushered her inside, "Everyone, guess who's here."
In the living room, were the refugees who escaped Gilead. On the floor playing with the two babies were June and Emily, around the couch drinking beer, Moira and Luke, and watching over them beside the couch was Rita.
Emily, now wearing glasses, got up and made her way over to her savior. "Hi, do you remember me?" She asked since much time has passed since the night the Saint helped her beyond the border.
"Emily." Carrie greeted as she opened her arms to the woman who welcomed her embrace.
Carrie held her before she pulled back and got a better look at the woman, "You've gotten stronger."
Emily breathed out a laugh, "I'm so glad to see you. June told us all about you. The letters she sent to us. Thank you for taking care of her."
"You're welcome." Carrie turned to Moira who waved in greeting, "Hello again Moira." She greeted, rolling the 'r' in the woman's name.
"Glad to have you here." Moira said as she raised her beer bottle.
Rita slowly approached her, "Hi, we haven't met, but my name is Rita Blue." She introduced herself to Carrie with a look of hope and hesitance in her eyes.
Carrie shook her hand, "I know who you are, June told me much about you. You are truly a force to be beckoned with." She praised the woman who is the mother of one of her soldiers and June's friend.
Rita smiled at her words, "You are most kind." She swallowed, looking nervous and hesitant before she spoke again, "Can I... talk to you in private?"
Carrie caught the plea within the woman's voice then nodded, "Of course."
Rita led Carrie to the backyard of the house where they stood outside, both of them bundled up in the cold air as the watched the snow glisten in the afternoon sun.
Carrie turned to Rita who stared at her, fear and hope within her eyes, "Months ago, Janine told me...about Matthew."
Carrie gave the woman a sad smile, "He's alive."
Rita let out a shuddering sigh and swallowed the lump in her throat. "Praised be."
Carrie looked down with a hint of guilt on her face, "Did June tell you the reasons why he hasn't contacted you?"
Rita nodded, "Yes." Her voice cracked when she spoke, "I just can't believe-" She sniffled as she covered her mouth, "When they told me he died... I felt something within me die as well." She gasped, "But your friend Alexander...he saved my boy. And he's been fighting the whole time." She tearfully said, the pride and love for her son shone through her smile.
Carrie nodded, "Yes, he's one of our best soldiers, a squad leader. He and June work together on missions, and he trains recruits in self-defense and combat."
Rita breathed out a small laugh, "He never did keep still." She stared at the snow, "When the war began, I begged him not to go, I wasn't ready to see him leave me. At the time, I thought that giving up would be the best way to survive. But Matthew was so stubborn. He didn't want to give Gilead the satisfaction of making him a slave." She sighed, "Losing him convinced me to fight back. Even if I couldn't shoot a gun, I can at least be part of the resistance and help others escape. Give them what I couldn't give my son." She swallowed as she thought of her baby boy, her last memory of him was their argument, how desperately she tried to get him to stay before he went in that truck with his fellow soldiers and went to battle.
Carrie laid a hand on Rita's shoulder, making the woman turn to Carrie, "He was never mad at you Ms. Blue. He's proud of what you've done. Not a day has gone by where he hasn't wished to see you again." She breathed out through her nose, "He fears of what will happen should he die. He doesn't want you to mourn him again. That's how much he loves you, and how hard he fights to bring our country back. So we can all go home."
Rita smiled through tears as she wrapped her arms around Carrie who returned her embrace. She can feel the motherly love within the woman and felt a sense of envy towards Matthew for growing up with such a kind and strong woman.
"Thank you for looking after my son." Rita whispered gratefully as she held the younger woman tightly.
Carrie smiled against the woman's shoulder, "I'll make sure you see him again." She vowed, praying that God would let this woman embrace her son once more.
The two women went back inside where their friends waited for them to join in merriment before Carrie and June leave come morning.
Dressed her warm white ensemble, Carrie stood by the truck, watching June bid farewell to her husband, Moira, Janine, Emily, Rita, and baby Nicole.
"You should stay." Luke begged his wife, happy to reunite with her at long last, yet heartbroken to see her go back to Gilead.
"I can't, not until Hannah is free." June swallowed as her own heart fractured at leaving her kind loving husband.
"Then let me go with you, if it's both of us-"
"No." June firmly shot his idea down. "Hannah can't recognize me, but she should know who her father is, the one who Gilead hasn't infected. If you stay here, our baby will remember you before Gilead." She explained, realizing long ago that Luke is the only one who Gilead hasn't tainted, unlike her and Hannah. He represents all the beautiful happy moments they had as a family. As long as he's free, then Hannah can remember him.
Luke wanted to argue, but knew June was right, there was no way he could survive Gilead.
June embraced her husband, savoring his warmth and love. "I swear, I'll make sure our baby is back in your arms again."
Luke fought to keep the tears at bay as he held his wife tightly. His eyes caught the Saint's, a silent message passing between them as the woman in white nodded.
June pulled away to give a tear-filled kiss to Luke. She then turned her attention to Rita who held Nicole. June smiled at her baby daughter through tears before Rita passed her into her arms.
"Rita, I can't thank you enough." June said as she lightly bounced her baby girl. She smelled her little head, taking in the baby shampoo they used on her.
Rita smiled, "It's the least I could do. When you get back, can you tell my son I love him?"
"I will. I swear it." June whispered as tears shimmered in her eyes as she passed her dozing daughter back to Rita. "He misses you too you know. You're the main reason why he keeps fighting."
Rita smiled through unshed tears as she thought of her baby boy. "Thank you."
June turned to the three Handmaids who escaped Gilead, "Watch out for each other."
Emily nodded before she hugged her former walking partner, "We will."
It was Janine's turn to hug June, "Please be safe, and tell Alma and the others 'hi' for me."
Moira had tears in her eyes as she was about to say goodbye to her best friend again. Her hug lasted longer than the others, "You better fucking survive you crazy bitch. Or I'm coming after you." She whispered through tears as she held June tightly.
June laughed through tears at Moira's threat. "I'll try. I want Hannah to meet her Godmother again."
Moira pulled back with a shuddering breath as June walked away from her friends and family.
Carrie held the door open for June who climbed in and waved at her loved ones before joining her.
The driver started up the truck and began to peel off towards the Canadian border. June watched her friends' wave at her as they got smaller the further they drove. Though it hurts to leave them again, she can't leave Hannah behind. That reaffirms her desire to continue the fight for her eldest daughter.
Carrie took her hand and squeezed it, "We'll find her." She vowed as she sensed her friend's thoughts.
June gave her leader a determined look and nodded as their truck took them back to the battlefield.
This chapter is my absolute favorite by far. I wrote this months ago before the last two chapters because certain scenes wouldn't leave me alone. I always love seeing Fred and Serena get theirs, and this is therapeutic for me. Thank you for reading and following this story. I don't know when I'll update, but I promise you, the ending to this story will be epic and dramatic.