

8
The Water
Faction 2859
competitor is. Aaliyah Wilson!’
Everyone turns to me with jealousy filling their eyes. I am
astonished, gob-smacked as I make my way to the platform to accept
the honour. All I can think of is how can I do this, leave everyone
behind for who knows how long?
They had planned for the space shuttle to leave at dusk. Now, I
am saying my goodbyes to my family who are just as astonished as
I am. The last person left is my beloved mum.
‘Promise me you will come back safe and sound?’
‘Promise.’ I will never forget the embrace frommymum. Potentially
my last.
I turn to leave for the shuttle. I take my last step on earth, with
Talon, on to the shuttle.
‘There is no turning back now,’ I say with a grin to Talon.
‘Let’s show them what we’re made of.’
‘
7