66: Ryann
Ryann
The staleness of the tunnels gave way to scents of pollen, to the aromas of mud and trees. Ryann breathed deep, savouring the sweet smell of freedom. Daylight filtered in as she turned a corner. Her lenses compensated, night vision fading. She raced forward, all her aches and pains forgotten.
The sunlight filtering through the canopy of leaves was the most beautiful thing she’d experienced. She lifted her head to the warmth, thrust her arms out, relished the air brushing her face.
But she couldn’t stay like this. They were still after her.
There was an animal track to her left, branches pushed back and the ground trodden down. She pushed through, stumbling over the rocks that hid beneath the cover of rotweed.
A noise behind forced her to turn and pause. She focused, c
