A Promise of Iron

the captain said. “Then, contact the Melban and see if they have a shrink on board.”
“Captain, I…”
“Save it. They warned me. God knows I had my doubts, but I didn’t listen.” He stepped to the door. “Get her out of here.”
Daniel stepped behind the desk and took her by the arm. “Sorry,” he whispered in her ear.
The door opened with a whoosh.
Hours later, she was alone, clothed in a gray jumpsuit worn by the mechanics judging by the smell of oil that permeated it. Her hand was bandaged, but the damage had already been done. She thought of sleep, of lying down on her cot and wishing it all away. It was dark enough, quiet enough, save the steady hum of the engines.
Why? she wondered. Then she realized the answer didn’t matter.
Time rolled with the rocking of the waves. Sometime between darkness and light, she felt a chill. A voice echoed in her mind, something familiar.
Hello. Shall we continue?

About the Author
Brandon McCoy is an American writer, full-time husband, father, and author of the epic fantasy series, Echoes of Illyria. He lives in Phoenix, Arizona, with his wife, kids, and pets. Lover of fantasy, science fiction, and any story worth sharing over a tall glass of ale.