When Emily got to the perimeter of the encampment, she was met by one of the guards barring her way.
“You’re not authorized to pass beyond this point,” the guard said coldly.
“Good. Can you retrieve Keith Rogers or someone in charge?” she responded just as coldly as the guard had been.
The guard called out for his supervisor and the two had a tense discussion outside Emily’s hearing. He returned once they were finished.
“No one is available at this time,” the guard said coldly.
“Okay, no problem,” Emily replied, obviously miffed, and turned to go.
“Those machetes are to remain here,” the guard said before she took a step.
“And why would I do that?” Emily asked, turning to glare at the guard. She had her fists on her hips and was looking defiant.
“They belong to the group. They were
