In Other Lands

by Sarah Rees Brennan

“Luke’s outside,” Serene said in a low voice. “Might you want to go out and say something to him? He’s a bit torn up.” She looked off into the distance. “Your first one’s the worst. It gets easier after that.” Does it get easier? Elliot thought, looking at her still pale face. Or is it just that you shut doors in your own heart and never open them again for fear of what is behind them? Serene had killed for him too. Serene was a child soldier, created in the same way Luke had been. The only difference was that Serene had killed before she ever met Elliot, had been damaged like that before he ever saw her. He remembered thinking that the grave, older air she had was beautiful, was something elvish and wonderful, and felt sick of himself. He wanted nothing more than to lift the sadness forever and see her smile, uncomplicated and happy, the child she should still be. “Was someone with you for your first?” he asked. Serene nodded. “My mother. She said—she said she was proud of me, and that I was brave.” “Hey, you are brave,” said Elliot at last. “And I’m proud of you too. Always. Thanks for saving me.” “Any time,” said Serene. He thought she might have liked to smile but found herself not able to do so. “Always.”