They were crouched on the floor of their room, waiting for Mikhail.? The streets were full of angry and confused people, some of them resorting to violence to express themselves. No one knew what was going on or who was in charge.

Justin shifted in front of Nessa as the door swung open, then relaxed as he recognized Mikhail. He had no clue what to do, how to get through the streets safely, but the captain would.

——

Mikhail studied the two civilians in front of him. They had done well to get as far as they had, but things were getting dangerous out there, even for his men.? “You sure you don’t want me to take that container off your hands, Justin?”

The young man only shook his head. “I appreciate your help, but…”

“You don’t completely trust me. I know. We’ll wait for dark to move then.”

—–

It had been full dark for two hours before they ventured into the streets, keeping to the shadows and the side streets. They were noticed, but no more so than many of the others who were still on the streets. No one hassled them or tried to stop them.

Justin and Mikhail had to help Nessa over the wall that separated them from their goal. It slowed them down just enough.? Justin dropped to the ground and the captain and Nessa started to move away from the wall.

There was a flash of white light, followed by orange flames and then the explosion sent them all tumbling.