Head deeper into the mountain

Calvo took one last drink from the cavern pool, placed the sleeping body of Number Twelve over his shoulder, and headed deeper into the mountain. He wondered what progress, if any, the searchers above were having.

Above the mountain, one of the hovercraft searching for him and a handful of other escaped prisoners had caused a minor landslide, which concealed the entrance to the cave Calvo had entered. The mineral composition of the mountain was such that it hid all traces of either him or Number Twelve from the electronic devices of the searchers. After three days, all the prisoners save Calvo were recaptured. But the authorities had no clue of what had happened to either Calvo or Guard Number Twelve.

Calvo had travelled two more hours down the cave, which seemed to be be going deeper and deeper. Thanks to the bioluminiscent lichen, Calva had no problem moving along. But he was beginning to consider whether he should keep heading down or perhaps turn around.

Calvo was just about to turn back when a bright glow ahead made him think that he had finally found an exit out of the mountain. The light was fairly bright, but it seemed a bit odd. It wasn't the exact color of sunlight that he had become accustomed to as a prisoner.

Number twelve started squirming around on his shoulder, and Calvo realized she was beginning to wake up. Calvo quickly removed her from his shoulder and moved behind her now standing form, with a hand over her mouth and an arm around her neck.

Number twelve eyes slowly came open, until she remembered what had happened to her last. Her eyes popped open as she felt a hand over her mouth.

Calvo whispered into her ear, "Not a word, you understand? Not one small peep. I don't want to kill you, but if the choice is between my freedom or your life, I won't she any tears. Got me?"

Number twelve silently nodded as Calvo slowly released her. Calvo pointed a finger at her as he moved in front of her. "No trouble, understand?"

Number twelve nodded. Nude and unarmed, she realized she was completely at the mercy of Calvo. With a finger pressed against his lips, Calva left Number Twelve where she was and peaked out the entrance.

Calvo came back, a stunned look on his face. Number twelve quietly asked, "What? What did you see? Where are we?"

Calvo motioned for Number Twelve to follow him. "I think you're going to need to see this for yourself."

Number Twelve followed the subdued Calvo to the entrance. She gasped at what she saw.