#divergentfanfic

[ladyvillainous]

Divergent - Destined to be Dauntless (on Wattpad)

There's more to the rivalry between Eric and Four than a mark on a scoreboard. What made Eric so malicious and violent? Four so distant and unapproachable? What turned them so irrevocably against one another? Between two opposing males there is inevitably a woman at the centre of it, but what happened to her?

Tobias Eaton and Isabelle Jones defected to Dauntless two Years before Tris Prior unwittingly kicked off the Divergent war. He left to escape his father, her to the only place she'd long known she would fit in and finally be free to rediscover the self she had buried for so long. Eric Coulter left Erudite to join the faction he had been destined to join since childhood and in doing so rediscovered a piece of his past he thought lost. Isabelle and Eric are drawn together through their shared past, leaving Tobias out in the cold, but will Isabelle every truly be able to walk away from her closest friend.

New Leader Max is making big changes in Dauntless but he's not acting alone, Erudite are starting the factions on a path that will lead to civil war but what part will Eric, Tobias, and Isabelle play.

[madisonr1129]

Hello Everyone- Wow, it's been a while! Thank you for your patience with my fanfic story "ROLE OF A LIFETIME". ❤️ I know it's been FOREVER since I posted a new chapter, but life has been busier than ever before, and I never seem to have even a moment for any fanfic time. Also, thank you for everyone's prayers... my health is doing much better! So much so, that I'm working about 80 hours a week. 😳 With that being said, I unfortunately still do NOT have a chapter update for you yet. I'm sorry! But I assure you, more is to come! This story will not be left incomplete. I don't know when, but hopefully sometime in the near future, I'll have the next chapter up (and hopefully not a long wait before the one after that is posted too). I'd also have had it posted sooner if my iPad hadn't have broke. Since I've lost all my saved work, I've been starting from scratch (on my iPhone). No fun! So again, thank you for your patience. If you wish to still continue reading this story and find out what L.A. and New York life have in store for Tobias and Tris, then stick around and check back soon for updates! Thanks again for being such awesome pals and for all of your wonderful feedback while I've been away. It was so much fun to finally sit down and catch up on what I've been missing out on. Even despite the (few) very rude and impatient comments. I look forward to seeing what you all think about where this story takes us. Until next time... Madison Rose 🌹

[that1girloverthere]

The Changing

Chapter 11

My arms are weak and my legs ache by the end of our scheduled training, and my heart and ribs only hurt worse knowing that I have another hour of this hell to go. While the other initiates pack up the few things they’ve brought with them I take a seat on one of the mats, looking at my boots as they sway back and forth.

“Hey uh, Asher right?” I look up at the sound of my name, spoken by an unknown voice.

“Yeah,” I say, now recognizing the speaker. “Colt, right?” He nods.

“So I don’t want to bore you but I just wanted to say that you’re really good at knife throwing.” He says point at the wall full of people shaped targets. Only three of the twelve targets have noticeable knives sticking out of them, all either surrounding or hitting dead center.

“Thanks,” I say offering up a smile. “You did amazing too. Where did you learn that technique from?”

“Erudite lets you study anything you want, i happened to be interested in knife throwing, and fighting.” He returns a smile.

“Ahh makes sense now.” I say nodding.

“And how about you? How did you become so Dauntless so quick?”

“I’m forced to stay an hour after each day. Once or twice Eric couldn’t make it so me and Uriah, a friend of mine, threw some knives around.”

“Cool.” He says, shuffling his water bottle and thin jacket in his hand. “Anyways, I’ll talk to you later?”

“Sounds good.” I say, watching his back as he walks away. He has blond hair and blue eyes, not too different from Eric’s, but his build is similar to Four’s. Lean but still deadly.

“Hey!” Eric calls from behind me. I turn, sighing at the realization that I have to work for an extra hour.

“Yeah?” I question.

“Start lifting weights. Then get ready to fight.” I sigh, but agree anyways. In the few weeks I’ve known Eric he has yet to be outright rude to me, only criticizing me logistically, trying to make me better, however I’d be dunce if I didn’t recognize his other persona. The cruel Dauntless leader, hanging people over the chasm for fun, able to kill a man with just a stare. Bryn continues to warn me of my closeness to him, only she doesn’t see my side of him, what I hope is the real side, or at least close to it.

“Stop!” He calls out from the other side of the room, walking towards me. I sit down the weights but cast him a confused glare.

“You just told me to start like two minutes ago.”

“I know, but now I want you to stop.” I roll my eyes at his bluntness, clearly not caring that this makes no sense. “I have a deal for you.” He begins.

I nod, now intrigued. “You win this fight, and I’ll give you a present.”

“What’s the present?”

“Ah, now you see that’s where the surprise comes in.” He says pointing at me. I debate my options in my head and decide that even if I did say no to the bet I will most likely still have to fight.

“Okay, fine. Who am I up against?” I question, looking around the room to see if I can spot my opponent.

“Mhmm yet another surprise.” He says walking to the door, he pulls in a man, tall and muscular, but he looks to be my age.

“Met Tristan, Dauntless born initiate.” He greats me with a hand shake and I return the introduction.

“Hi.” I say.

“Hey, So uh, you ready?” He asks, clearly eager to get this over with. I hum in agreement and begin my walk to the ring. I do a quick mental check over my body, seeing if I can think of any weak spots. I still have a large bruise on my ribs but with the new medication that Erudite is pumping into me any kind of internal damage has been healed. I have my tattoo which is still a bit sensitive but I can’t see that being a big problem.

When I reach the ring, I turn to face my newly made rival, looking for a weakness, any weakness will do. He has chin length hair, but with him placing it into a bun now that won’t be much help. He sports arm tattoos and... bingo! A small nose ring, wrapping around his right nostril. I smile internally.

Tristan steps onto the mat and I do the same.

“Rules?” He asks, not taking his eyes off of me.

“Fight till first drawn blood, but god damn it no scratching or biting.” He says this looking at me. I give him a fake hurt look, placing my hand over my heart.

“Now why do you think I would ever do that?”

“Oh I don’t know. Maybe because Uriah now has a scar on his arm from you scratching the hell out of him last week.” He replies, crossing his arms over his chest.

“Oh yeah. That did happen huh?” I say, laughing slightly. “Okay. I promise, no scratching.”

I take my fighting stance, and Tristan takes his as well. I try and remember all the little bits of information that Eric and Four have taught me throughout these last two weeks.

Watch the opponent, see the weaknesses, find the tells.

Fight hard, but keep your head clear. Anger is your enemy when in the ring.

Hit first and dodge.

Quit being such a damn Stiff and just hurt someone already... Okay that one was definitely Eric’s.

Me and Tristan circle each other for a moment. He lunges forward, aiming for my exposed rib, but I manage to dodge his blow. While his arm I’m down I punch his jaw, making his head whip to the side, but he recovers quick. I put my hand up, blocking my face, it’ll be the first place to bleed when punched.

He takes another shot at my stomach, and then kicks me in the side, sending me falling to the floor. I grunt with the impact. He is on me in seconds, pining my arms under his knees and attempting an assault on my face. I dodge the first few blows but he ends up hitting me in the jaw, nearly in the same spot I hit him earlier. Pain explodes over my head, my eyes blurring over for a moment. I struggle against the restrain put on my hands and manage to free my left side, soon enough to block the next blow. I try and roll my body, using his weight against him, and pin him under me, switching our positions completely. I jab him in the throat causing him to make a choking sound. I send a furry of punches down on his face but DAMN IT THE MAN JUST WONT BLEED.

He pushes me off of him, sending me flying to the other side of the mat. My head hits the ground with a sickening echo but I’m up in seconds. He uppercuts me, causing me to grind my teeth, another pain erupts through me. I kick him in the side, then jab him in the throat once more. When he is defenseless I reach with sweaty hands for his nose piercing. I grab ahold and he does the rest of the work for me, pulling is head back reflexively, and yanking the silver ring clean out of his nose. He gives a yelp when he realizes what his just taken place, and drops of blood begin to fall onto his shirt. He reaches a hand up and touches his nose, staring at his hand intensely when it comes away covered.

I smile and cheer, far more happy than I have ever been in my life. I hold the piercing in the air like a trophy. I jump off the mat and land hard on the ground, my bare feet making a slapping sound when I land. I do a small dance and then realize that everyone is staring at me. I put my hand down and lower my head. “Sorry.” I say, feeling ashamed that I celebrated someone else’s pain.

Laughing erupts from the two guys in the room and I whip my head up quickly, shocked at the sudden change. Tristan gets off the mat and Eric claps him on the back.

“Fucking told you not to get that piercing till fear sims didn’t I?”

Tristan chuckles, still holding his nose in hopes to stop the bleeding. “Yeah you did, however I didn’t expect a transfer to be the one to rip it out.”

I give a sheepish smile, handing him back his blood covered ring. “Sorry, again.” I say as I place it into his open palm.

He shakes his head. “You’re fine. Frankly I’m impressed.” He gives me a Well meaning smile and I do my best to return it.

“You should get to the infirmary.” Eric said, once again patting him on the back.

“Yeah I should.” He says walking away, placing his piercing him his pocket. “See you around Asher.” He calls back to me before he exits the training room.

“See ya!” I call back.

Once we’re alone, a big smile breaks out across Eric’s face, the first one of its kind I’ve ever seen. When I look in his eyes I see pride, even (dare I say) real happiness.

“That was sick!” He says giving me a high five. My smile grows larger, loving any praise I can get. “I have to say I didn’t think you would beat him.” He says.

“What?!” I yell, playfully hitting his arm.

“Hey don’t look at me like that you’re from Abnegation, I figured you’d hate to draw the blood of a stranger. However,” he says pausing, grabbing his jacket from behind him. “You won.”

“Exactly.” I say. “ I won and now,” I pause for dramatic effect. “You sir owe me a present.”

He shakes his head. “That I do. Follow me.” He says walking towards the doors.

•••

Hope you guys enjoyed!! Thank you all for the AMAZING support. Let me know if you want tagged in the next chapters!

[shabadingdong10ariell-blog]

Glowing cinders burned down in spirals, eddying like feathers in an orange haze. Torrid, unrelenting flames cast shadows that flickered and lurched onto the trees like withered bats. Talons of smoke clawed at Lila’s heels while she traversed a bramble of wildflowers, her own shadow unfurling at her feet. She stole a cursory glance at Warren, whose eyes reflected the devastating scarlet of the horizon and the gray of the open sky.

“Be mindful of the thorns,” she told him.

[workingonitsblog]

Through Good and Bad (on Wattpad) https://my.w.tt/UiNb/BWURHwu9HJ Previously known as - Eric and Rose After my aptitude test I don't know what to do anymore. I can only pick one and once I'm in a faction I stay in a faction. My name is Rose, I am sixteen years old and I am Divergent. My results were, in order, Dauntless, Abnegation, and Erudite. My original faction is Abnegation. But, I can't take being in this…

[picturesque-imperfection]

Wherever the Flowers Grow Wild and Wherever the Birds Fly Free {Part 10}

~Masterlist~

Song 1: Darkest Part by RED

Eric’s POV

As I walked towards her, I could see her eyes questioning, analyzing my behavior.

Honestly, I didn’t know what was wrong me to begin with. I hoped she was the key to answer my questions. I wanted to so badly wrap her in my arms again. To see her spinning in the rain, so carefree, the way she welcomed my kiss, the way her hair and dress clung to her body...but then I saw them, all of them, grabbing, groping, touching her. Her sadistic smirk shaking me to my core, she enjoyed it. Her flirtatious laugh echoed in my ears as she took in the pleasure.

“Eric...?” Her eyes wandered my face. I was silent for too long.

I took a deep breath, breaking our gaze.

“I know who you are. You can’t be possible.” I said through clenched teeth.

“What...-” I raised my hand to shush her.

“You little harlot. Harlow THE Harlot.” The last word cut into her like a knife as she visibly winced.

She opened her mouth again to speak, I stepped backwards, away from her poisonous presence. She quickly shut her mouth, changing her stance to a defensive position.

“You think you could possibly play me like this. Torturing me, slowly destroying me, not giving me any choice but to face them...AND turning into more than just a whore, but a killer, a merciless, heartless killer...”

Anger burned within me, my body was radiating heat, staring at the girl, the monster that got into my mind and tried to tear me down.

I picked up a decorative vase sitting on the side table and chucked it at the wall behind her. She ducked, jumping to the side of the scattering shrapnel. I took a bookend and threw it at the same spot. I punched the wall a few times, making a gaping hole and my knuckl bloody.

“YOU CAN’T DESTROY ME!” I yelled, striding towards her and shaking my head with a devious snicker.

“Eric! What is wrong with you?!” She frantically yelled back, her eyes wild. She backed up against the door frame.

“You! You’re what’s wrong here. Coming here is what’s wrong. Getting into my head is what’s wrong!!” I tapped my head with my pointer finger for added emphasis as I towered over her.

My vision blurred with rage.

“You thought you had me all wrapped around your finger, you thought you could get into my head, you thought you knew everything about me. Now, oh now she’s taunting me. She’s trying to push me over the edge. You brought her back. And you think you can hide them from me?! Hide all your secret lovers and little murderous escapades?!?! You’re drenched in the whore smell. But you can’t hide from me! I’m Eric from Dauntless and I can smell the fear and blood that oozes from you. You wreak of havoc and decay. I hate you. I hate everything you do. I hate it all! You’re poisonous. YOU LEAVE! LEAVE ME! LEAVE THIS PLACE!!!” 

My words rang in the room as she shook. The storm still howled outside, rising the tension that hung in my apartment. 

Tears lined her eyes as they went back and forth between my own.

Her hair whipped my in my face when she spun around, moving quickly for the door. It slammed in the screaming silence. I rubbed my face, adrenaline coursing through my veins.

She was a liar, a cheater, a killer. Her secrets ran deeper than mine. The blood on her hands was more than my own. How could she live with herself. How could she get to me like that. How did I let her get to me?!

My chest heaved as I paced in my room, letting my anger run it’s course. I needed to run again. 

I took off, out my door towards the training room, squeezing my fists to warm them up for the punching bag.

Harlow’s POV

The tears spilled down my face. My breath choppy as I got away from the horrible scene that just played out.

I knew someone like Phillip fueled the fire that was meant to burn me. Filling Eric’s head with lies, unless he was doing it on his own, making false assumptions about me and my past.

I ran into the abandoned wing of Dauntless, filled with offices and conference rooms that had been moved to a newly renovated area in the headquarters. 

I slipped inside of a small room, catching my breath, fear coursing through my veins as I tried shaking the crazed look of Eric out of my mind. I closed my eyes, my chest rising with each breath I inhaled. 

Opening my eyes, I observed the room. It was what looked like a small office. There was a desk in splinters in the corner, a rolling office chair whose cushioned seat was torn, a cheap plastic chair, a duffle bag, a shattered clock, a used syringe, and a lamp with a missing lampshade. 

The bag seemed too clean for it’s surroundings. Walking over to it, I saw that it was indeed out of place. There were syringes, bottles of some mysterious serum, a bandanna, rope, and some medical wires. I scanned the outside of the bag, no name. I took the bandanna out, unfolding it. Inside there was a dog tag, a hair clip, and a small notepad. The dog tag read Eric Coulter Initiate 457.

“What were you doing in here Eric...” I muttered to myself.

I picked up a little vial of serum and tried to read it in the flashing lightning. It was a type of fear serum, a higher concentrate of the stuff we needed to take for our tests.

I zipped up the bag, sitting in the plastic chair next to it. I rested my chin in my hands, letting my mind place take me over.

Eric was drenched when he saw me in the Pit, he was breathing heavy, probably from running outside. He must have used this room recently because of the discarded syringe in the corner of the room. Why was he going into his Fearscape? And why a higher concentrate? That would be like hell. It must have been still in his blood in the apartment, making him act out, still in between reality and his own fear ridden world. What did he see to make him call me all of those awful things? Who was he referring to by “she” and “them”? There were pieces still missing. I needed answers. I needed to know I was right in my assumptions and that there weren’t more rumors being spread about me.

I played with my lip, thinking about my next move. 

I got up, grabbing the bag and heading back towards the dorms and apartments. 

When I arrived at my destination, I knocked quickly, my body still shaking from the adrenaline, worry, and fear.

“Harlow?” The door opened and I didn’t bother to reply as I shoved past Four into his apartment.

I dropped the bag onto his coffee table.

“What is this?” I asked as I pointed to it.

He smirked as he sauntered over, shirtless, and picked up the bag. 

“You’re just full of surprises.” 

He shuffled the things around inside of it, his eyes meeting mine as he set it back down.

“Why do you have this? Are you okay Harlow?” He asked as he reached to caress my arm.

“It’s Eric’s.” I said crossing my arms and taking a step away from his touch.

“I was about slaughtered by him a few minutes ago. Emotionally and mentally I am wrecked. He is going insane, Four. Why is he doing this to himself?” Tears were threatening to spill.

He clenched his jaw as he looked sideways at the bag.

“It grounds him.” He simply stated, crossing his arms.

“Grounds him!?” I screeched. 

“Four, if throwing objects at me, accusing me of bizarre and unpleasant things is “grounding” him, he needs serious help.” My voice was filled with more distress than anger. 

There was a heaviness in my chest, a worry, a fear.

“What happened Harlow?” He asked, a deep concern filled his eyes.

I sighed, trying to control myself, “After the girls and I got tattoos, I went for a walk and ended up messing around in the rain. He was staring at me oddly and basically charged me and kissed me. It was like a long forgotten touch reignited. It seemed heartfelt. He was already drenched, I’m assuming he was out in the rain. Then he carried me to his apartment, let me wear these, and he was really quiet. I came out of the bathroom and he exploded out of nowhere. I ran away, finding this in the abandoned office wing and here I am.” 

I slumped down on his couch. He moved next to me, the cushion sinking ever so slightly. 

“Eric uses his Fearscape as a reminder of who he is. It’s his form of strengthening his character. I don’t understand, but the higher dosage stays in your blood stream longer and causes your fears to linger and some hallucinations. He’s probably going to come out of it soon. I wouldn’t worry about it.”

He rubbed my back as I stared at the bag on the table.

I bit my lip, as I questioned my next move. Four got up and went into his small kitchen, turning on the faucet.

“He said I made her come back and that they, my secret lovers are here or whatever. He called me a harlot, a whore, a killer...what did he see Four? What are his fears?” I asked in desperation.

He came back with a glass of water which I gulped down viciously. He took the empty cup from me and set it on the table next to the bag. 

“Wait, he said you made who come back? And you had lovers? And that you are a killer?” He asked trying to piece the puzzle together himself.

“I wish I could tell you, but I don’t remember many of his fears, only spiders.”

I nodded. 

“I think there’s only one way to find out.” I said as I stood up. 

Four stood up too giving me a side hug.

“It’ll be okay. It’s Eric, he takes some time to come around. I also don’t want you getting hurt. Please, if he does this anymore, tell me and don’t try to get in too deep. I don’t want you getting hurt Harlow.” He made sure his point got across to me.

“Okay, dad.” I nudged his arm, took the bag, and left his apartment.

“I’m serious. He can be hurtful.” He spoke up to me as I exited.

I didn’t respond or acknowledge him as I closed the door behind me. I was too focused on how to approach my next idea. It was probably a bad idea too. 

I just needed answers.

Eric’s POV

My shouts and grunts rang through the empty training room through the pouring rain and thunder. My body was dripping with sweat, my heart was racing, and adrenaline coursed through my veins.

The distinct anger and hatred I felt was only reserved for one person,

me.

I let myself lose control of my Fearscape. I let myself lose control on Harlow. The blurry lines between reality and my fears had gotten the best of me. So here I was, working it out of my bloodstream, trying to grasp the painful truth that is now truth.

She left. I told her to. She didn’t fight back. I thought she would have. She tried to analyze the situation further, but I was a monster. There was physical evidence all across my apartment, holes in the wall, shattered vases, broken book ends...

For the second time in my life I asked myself, What have I done?

The first time it was family, now it was with a girl that has the potential to wreck me. The power, the connection, the hold, or whatever it was she had on me was destroying my perception of both reality and my fears.

I stopped punching, holding the bag between my bloody hands. I rested my head on the worn leather, breathing deeply. I could now focus on the real world, the heavy serum out of my system. 

The awful words I said to myself in my head kept me from lashing out on anything near me. 

What brought me back from my horrid self-punishment was earth shattering, I couldn’t decide between a good or bad shattering, but I was made weak.

Harlow’s POV

“Show me.” My voice carried to the fatigued figure hanging onto the punching bag.

He tensed at the sound of my voice. He had an obvious struggle whether to look at me or not.

He was punishing himself.

I set the bag down, the glass serum clinking inside. His head turned from it’s resting state on the bloodied leather to see what I brought. His eyes became wide, as dilated as they were when he spat in my face, probably wondering how I found it.

His eyes slowly wandered up to meet mine, it was sad. He looked like a hurt puppy. His vulnerable state made me feel uneasy.

He stood up straight, still holding the bag between his torn hands. 

I wanted to help him. To reach out, but I was scared of him. I knew he was back to normal, but the air was so tense, something was about to erupt.

The silence was deafening, our stare-down sending constant shivers down his back.

“No.” He said, standing at attention, trying to claim dominance.

He shook his head, his face sorrowful and stern.

“Let me understand.” I was trying hard not to plead or manipulate him into giving me what I wanted.

“I can’t.” He crossed his arms.

“It could help.” I said.

He scrunched his eyebrows ever so slightly, glancing to the side briefly. He was thinking about it.

“Going into someone else’s Fearscape can be dangerous.” He tried to backup his answer.

“Not with half the dosage you use between the both us.” I replied.

“I can’t. It’s not safe.” He was losing this fight.

“You can’t hurt me if I’m expecting it. You’ve already done enough damage. I think I deserve to see what’s getting to you Eric.” I didn’t want to say it, but I had to. The words spilled out harsher than expected.

He took a deep breath, letting it out slowly as he stared at the bag by my feet. I hit him hard with that comment.

“Follow me.” He started walking towards me and the entrance.

He picked up the bag by the straps, slinging it over his shoulder. He was quiet, contemplative, worried, and probably stressed out.

I followed a safe distance behind him, traveling through the winding tunnels leading to the abandoned sector.

We entered the office where I found the bag. He dragged the two chairs to face each other, squatting down to dig through his stash.

“Sit.” He ordered his hands still busy digging around.

I did so, waiting as he sat down and attached wires to himself and I on our temples and chest. He took out a vial and two syringes, filling them each halfway, making sure there were no air bubbles. He then took out the ropes, tying our feet down on the legs of the chairs.

“Just in case...” He said.

His hands lingered on my skin as he tied knots around my ankles. His eyes glanced at my healing scars from the leather straps.

He then took out his bandanna, unfolding it carefully, glancing quickly up at me, knowing I had looked through his bag.

“They’re anchors. My sister’s hair clip, my initiate tags, and the notepad that records each time I go under and the details I see each time. They were all the same until recently....”

He swallowed hard, flipping through the small, delicate pages. I didn’t have an anchor, maybe that was why I suffered through my simulation.

“I changed your Fearscape?” I asked in slight shock.

The only answer I got was a mix between a glare and a questioning look. He set the pad down, held the clip and tags, and sat back.

“You need to keep up with me, listen to what I say, and stay close.” 

I nodded my head, reaching for a syringe in his hand.

I placed it over my artery, waiting for him to signal.

“On three...One, Two, Three.” 

 We plunged the needles into our skin, injecting the serum into our bloodstream.

Eric’s POV

It always started in the woods. Dense trees, thick brush, and tall grass.

“Try to keep up.” I said, scanning the forest around me.

A questioning expression was on her face as she followed my gaze.

Movement to her left made me snap my head around.

“Eric what am I- Oh my....” 

Her eyes became the size of large orbs as thousands upon thousands of different sized spiders came crawling towards us. Their beady eyes bore holes into my sockets, their fangs twitching, and their legs audibly crawling over trees, grass, and shrubs.

“RUN!” I shouted, yanking her hand in the opposite direction. 

I ducked low hanging trees, jumped over branches, and skidded in the dirt trying to escape the creepy crawly terrors that gave me goosebumps and made me grit my teeth.

She panted, her feet having trouble keeping up with my long strides. I heard rushing water ahead of me, our escape.

“Jump!” I said as we were enclosing upon a cliff.

She didn’t question it as we hurtled off the rocky ledge down into rushing water.

We splashed in the chilly depths, stroking our hardest to reach the top for air.

Gasping, I pulled her close to me, helping her float above the rapids.

“Spiders huh...” She said, wiping wet hair out of her face, her arm loose around my neck.

“I’m not much into arachnids...” I stated, not giving her any room to joke.

“This way.” I swam towards the shore, the river’s current helping us glide to the sandy bank.

Our shoes slopped in the sand and our clothes dripped relentlessly as we made our way through the woods.

Harlow kept her eyes open and searching for any other present dangers.

The woods disappeared all too quickly to be realistic, arriving promptly above the chasm in Dauntless headquarters.

Stopping, I felt Harlow move from behind me to see the scene that played out before us.

“Eric! Please! Help!” A girl in resemblance to my sister shouted to no one in particular, her fingers turning white from hanging onto the edge.

My feet suddenly froze on the rocky surface I was standing on. Harlow grunted, trying to move her feet. I tried to tell her not to fight it, but my voice was stuck in my throat. This fear used to be mine, it eventually ended, but since Harlow came back and reminded me of what I did, it came back.

“Yeah, like Eric is going to save you...” Some arrogant boys teased.

They couldn’t see me. They never did. No matter how hard I tried to move or shout.

The girl was grunting, trying to hold on, but her efforts were failing.

I looked behind me, Harlow stayed silent, her eyes not leaving the girl’s fear stricken irises.

The boys jeered at her, threatening to step on her bloody fingers.

“I can’t! I can’t!” She yelled breathlessly.

I stared at her, an ache growing in my chest.

I felt Harlow’s hand grab my arm, whether it was for sympathy or not, it made my body feel warm.

The girl wiggled, trying to get a better grip on the edge, the boys still laughing and harassing her.

She wasn’t strong enough to lift her self up more, her right hand dropped to her side.

“No!” She screamed a painfully terrified shriek.

“Bye Bye little fly...” A taller boy sneered.

Her eyes finally connected with mine, her fingers not able to hold her weight. She was the only one who could see me, making sure she held my gaze.

She fell, our eyes locked, my name echoing up into the chasm as a splash of water was heard further below.

The boys laughed, walking away like nothing happened. 

I released my breath, Harlow searching my eyes. I turned my torso to speak until I was interrupted. 

“You did thisssss...” Voices hissed in the darkness.

I looked down and closed my eyes, my feet still paralyzed. This part was new too.

“You did thisss Erriic...” A voice was laced with hate and disappointment.

Their voices made my skin crawl. I felt Harlow’s hand grab mine, sending a jolt of electricity through my arm. I shot my head up, ready to face the lurking evil in the shadows of the chasm. Two ghostly figures resembling my parents emerged, a dark, smoky screen engulfing the whole room. 

Their whispers taunted me, tore me apart, stabbed me in the heart. Everything they ever said to me as a child to make me feel like a failure slithered out of their mouths. I found it hard to breath as the black smoke enveloped me.

Harlow squeezed my hand, snapping me out of my daze, my breathing labored.

I pulled on the invisible force that held my feet in place, it didn’t give, I only made myself weaker.

“You’re not a failure.” Her voice broke through the dark smoke screen, earning angry hisses from my parents.

Their voices and taunting whispers only got louder as I choked on the thin air.

“HE’S NOT A FAILURE!” Her voice boomed in the void.  

The heaviness in the room lightened, a strength welling up within me. How could she speak? I couldn’t, my voice was still caught in my throat. She stepped in front of me, blocking me from the suffocating smoke and evil voices.

“You heard me! He’s. Not. A. Failure!” Her last words sent the ghostly figures slithering away, smoke automatically lifting as I dropped to the ground, gulping in the air.

She kneeled down beside me, her hand touching my back. 

I looked up into the darkness we were now in, “Let’s go.” 

I stood up, not knowing how to respond to what just happened.

We walked through the void, her hand in mine.

* Song: Skin by Rihanna *

We stumbled through into a hallway, music thumping through closed doors.

I glanced nervously down at Harlow, her eyes meeting mine as she felt my gaze.

“Um...this part is new.” I said as I started to walk down the hall.

I don’t know why this was a new fear of mine, I tried to search for the answer earlier, only finding anger and hatred for what I saw behind those doors.

Harlow didn’t understand why I was so nervous, her incessant gaze scanning my face. I did not want to open the doors, I tried running past them, but the hallway turned into an eternal loop until I did so.

“I would prepare yourself.” I said as I approached the first door.

“Why?” She asked. Her sassy question made me twitch.

I huffed, “Remember when I called you a whore?” 

She squinted her eyes in anger and in confusion.

I looked away from the daggers she shot at me and slowly turned the nob, preparing myself to react differently than last time.

The door opened to a bedroom, a girl scantily clad sitting on the edge of the bed.

Harlow gave a slight gasp as she saw her own reflection. 

“What...” Was all she could get out before Four entered the room, wearing close to nothing as well.

I looked away from the events that progressed to Harlow’s shocked stare.

She tore her eyes away from the scene to look at me questioningly.

“Eric...What’s wrong? Sad I didn’t choose you?” Harlow’s doppelganger spoke as Four kissed down her neck from behind. 

Her hypnotizing voice made my gaze wander back to her.

“This could be you...” She spoke as she closed her eyes in pleasure.

Multiple men appeared around her bed, their hands wondering her body

“Eric. Look at me.” The real Harlow spoke.

I fought to turn my head away. Jealousy and envy bubbled up inside of me. Profanities screamed at her in my head.

“Eric! Watch me. This was what you wanted...” The evil twin seductively whispered, the men and Four clinging to her body.

“Eric that isn’t me. Look. At. Me.” Harlow grabbed my head and turned it to face her.

“Stop. Stop whatever you’re thinking. Let’s go.” She released my burning face and pulled my hand towards the door.

I reluctantly went, wanting to so badly kill Four and put the twin in her place.

“Thanks...” I muttered as she slammed the door behind me.

How was she getting me through these? 

* Song: Everybody Wants To Rule the World by Lorde *

I flung open the next door, blood curdling screams greeting us as we entered. It was a dark room, with one light in the middle.

Another Harlow was crouched on the floor, her back to us. She was crying, sobbing, making my heart go numb.

I tried to fight he feeling, but it drew me to her even more.

“Eric...?” The real Harlow asked as she cautiously stepped behind me.

“Harlow?” I asked the replica, ignoring Harlow’s question.

I knelt down beside her, her head spinning around as I touched her shoulder. She almost knocked me over as she clung to my neck. She sobbed into my neck, my protective instinct making me squeeze her tighter. 

“Thank you for coming.” She quietly spoke. 

I rubbed her back, closing my eyes in this small piece of paradise. 

“No!” A shout came from behind me as I felt a sharp object pierce my stomach.

The Harlow I held pulled out of my arms, laughing manically as she shoved the knife further into my torso.

“Eric!” The real Harlow screamed, shoving her twin down hard.

I fell back, hot blood running over my hands that held the knife. I yanked the long jagged edged knife out with a grunt. Blood immediately poured from the wound.

Why didn’t I remember that this happened?

The two Harlow’s were fighting, fists and feet flying.

“Hippy!” I yelled, causing the real Harlow, who recognized the nickname, to quickly turn her head as she knocked the other to the ground.

I glanced at the knife laying next to me, leaning on my elbow to hold myself up s I applied pressure to my wound.

She gave one last glance at her doppelganger then sprinted towards me.

 “Let’s get out of here.” She said, picking up the knife then stepping behind me, placing her hands under my arms, struggling to drag me.

“Harlow, I can get out.” I said as I clumsily got my feet under me, slipping in my own blood bath.

“No you don’t.” The evil Harlow said through gritted teeth, her nose bloodied and eye swollen shut.

She charged for the two of us as we struggled to get out the door and shut her in her own void. 

As I shuffled backward with my feet, Harlow tugging me from behind, the duplicate reached down to grab my ankle. A loud thud stopped her in her tracks, as her eyes glazed over, her body crumpled to the ground. The knife stuck out of her chest, a sigh escaping her pale lips. 

I would have protested if it weren’t for the fact she was just a simulation and she tried to kill me. She sucked power from being in control of me, found pleasure in making me fear her, and had a lust in her eyes for blood. 

Lights flickered on in the room revealing the men in the previous room, wide eyed and horror stricken. Blood covered the walls and the mangled, rotting bodies were piled along the edges, hidden in the darkness just seconds before.

“Let’s leave.” Harlow said, trying to drag me again.

“No it’s okay. I’m healed now...” I said in a daze.

We rushed out of the room, slamming it shut.

“The first room made some sense, but that? What was that?” She questioned me as I leaned my head back against the wall of the hallway.

“I wish I could tell you...” I said finding it hard to meet her eyes.

She chewed on her cheek, as she often did when she was thinking.

“Maybe it’s the lack of knowledge of my past, the unknown history, the little secrets you don’t know that you think I have. I can assure you that I’m no killer whore Eric.” 

We both laughed at her last comment, making light of the dark Fearscape.

“Let’s get this over with.” I said as I got off the wall, walking to the next door.

For just going through the SIM, I had forgotten the last door and the secrets that lay behind it.

* Song: All Around Me by David Crowder Band *

I slowly opened it, Harlow close behind, her breath steady.

The room was covered in plastic remodeling sheets with an odd fog that floated on the floor and through the air, making visibility difficult.

“Eric?” A voice called out from another part of the room, it was Harlow’s.

The real Harlow glanced at me, eyebrow raised. We slowly proceeded with caution.

“Yes?” I called out.

“Come here! I missed you!!” She said, joy in her voice.

“Where are you?” I said looking around the room as we made our way through the plastic and fog.

“Over here!” She shouted followed by a giggle.

I turned towards the voice, seeing a shadow playing on the torn plastic that hung on the wall.

I made my way over to her, shoving aside the thick, pungent, plastic. I caught a glimpse of her hair, running away in the mist. I jogged after her laughter, a sweet sound that calmed me.

“Harlow. Come on. Enough games.” I said, barely catching up to her.

“Oh please Eric.” She stopped right before a large, dark tarp, her hip sticking out and her eyebrow raised. Her body language dripped with sass. She broke character as she flipped her hair and giggled. 

“I better not have to run away from another killer me...” The real Harlow said behind me.

“No, this is different.” I said, my eyes still on her replica.

“I’m waiting, love.” She said, her voice giving me goosebumps in a good way. 

My heart beat harder and faster, excitement rising with the sound of the different nickname she gave me.

I took long strides towards her, she moved aside the tarp and slipped inside.

She stood in the middle of the room, arms outstretched, a smile playing on her lips. Her hard was pulled halfway back, revealing her new piercings, she had shorts on that gave a sneak peak of her thigh tattoo, and her eyes were glowing with delight. I couldn’t help but smile at her as I took in all of her radiance.

I held out my arms when she was a small step away and wrapped her in my arms. I suddenly got this empty feeling, my arms hugging my own torso. 

“Harlow?” I whipped my head around, searching the room. 

I ran around in the fog and shoved aside tarps and plastic sheets to try to find her. I heard her laugh and sweet voice echoing in my head.

“Eric!” I heard her voice again. 

I ran in her direction, sprinting to see her face, feel her touch, hear her voice.

“Harlow?!” I shouted becoming frantic, not being able to get to her.

My stomach dropped, my lungs burned, my head was spinning, my vision was blurry.

I pushed aside a feeble, metal door into a room where a masked man held a gun to her head. She faced me, her eyes filled with fear and terror. She could take him, she was quick and smart.

BANG

Her blood splattered all over my body and face. Her decapitated body sat on the floor. 

“NOOOO!!” I yelled charging her attacker.

He was gone in an instant. I took off after him, anger and grief making it hard to breath. Sprinting towards the shadow of this masked killer, it was impossible to get to him in this maze.

“Eri-oomph!” I collided with a small body, both of us hitting the ground hard.

“Jeez. Calm down.” I sat up, seeing the real Harlow rubbing her elbow.

I shook my head, trying to loose the desperate feeling that ached in my stomach. She was still alive. It was just the SIM. 

“I’m afraid of losing you...afraid that you’re just a dream...” I said staring at her. 

My body was craving to hold her, to convince myself that this was just a dream.

She stood up, dusting herself off, but froze when she registered my words.

I stood up, looking down into her eyes. I tucked her hair behind her ear, caressing her small face in my large, rough hand. She nuzzled into it, taking in my scent.

“You’re being cliche.” She said with her eyes closed, a smirk playing on her plump lips.

I let out a small laugh, dropping my hand to grab hers. 

“Then let’s go.” I said, finding the door and walking out of it.

I sat up with a gasp of air, almost tipping over my chair. Harlow was awake too, her breaths quick and shallow.

*Song: I Found by Amber Run *

“Thank you.” Was all she said before ripping off the wires and untying her restraints.

I sat still, welcoming myself back to reality. Slowly undoing the ropes and pulling off my wires, I regained my composure.

Memories of earlier this evening came back to me. Her innocent face being screamed at by me, her fearlessness in asking to enter my own Fearscape, and her helping me through each one.

“You’re my anchor.” I said in realization.

Harlow was observing my movements but stopped to look at me, biting her lip in thought.

“You’re right. And you’re mine. You brought me out of my Fearscape because you weren’t in it to help me...” She looked away, her mind analyzing.

We sat in silence, both thinking.

My mind was consumed with why and how she had become a part of my fears, and not to mention a lot of them. 

I knew why. I was afraid to admit it. Did I have to? Should I? 

I’m Eric. A leader in the Divergent faction. I am in control of myself. I can be in control of my feelings. I can get a grip. 

“I should get some sleep. Job shadowing starts tomorrow.” She stood to leave, stretching her legs.

I grabbed her had as she turned.

“Don’t.” 

She looked back, puzzled.

“Don’t go. Stay with me.”

I was almost begging and ordering her at the same time.

“Are you scared now Eric?” She said sarcastically either referring to what I had screamed at her earlier or the storm that was still howling.

“No. I’m not.” I said standing, her hand still in mine.

“Okay.” She responded.

We walked back to my apartment, holes still gaping in the walls and shattered pottery across the floor.

We tread carefully to the couch. She snuggled into my side as we watched the storm. I was shocked and amused at how quickly she stuck to my side, even after all that had just happened.

“So what you were saying earlier weren’t new rumors, just your Fearscape?” She asked, her voice slow and mellow.

“No rumors. Not anymore.” I said as I stroked her hair.

I heard a sigh escape her lip, her breathing becoming more even.

“I never thought someone would get to me as much as you. Your looks, your mind games, your touch, your kiss...just you. I don’t need you Harlow, but I want you. Don’t ever leave.” 

She didn’t respond, fast asleep within seconds.

What were these sappy words that were coming out of my mouth? I was being cliche and it was grossing me out. It as most likely due to the fear serum, fatigue, and lack of sleep that I was allowing myself to say such things.

I kissed the top of her head, shifting in the corner of the couch slightly to get comfortable.  The distant rumble of thunder and light patter of rain calmed my mind and put me at ease. The weight of Harlow laying on my shoulder and chest made me feel warm and comfortable.

“Let’s be wild Hippy. Let’s be wild together.” I whispered in her hair and kissed her head one last time before I closed my eyes, allowing the events of the day to wash away and let sleep take over.

[empty-minded-writer]

Because of him I turn the gun over. Because of him I slip my finger over the trigger, even though that slight movement sends shocks of pain throughout my body. Because of him I raise my wrist and aim towards the keypad, the one that will sound an alarm that will bring someone, anyone, into this room. Because of him I choose what I had given up on so long ago: life

[insyncbby]

Tobias and Tris both in Abnegation.

Chapter 4 Tobias POV

Wow I cant believe I just kissed Beatrice. And she kissed me back. If anyone found out about this, I don't know what I'd do.

But Here I am standing with my arms wrapped around the most beautiful girl i've ever met, yet I don't know if this is what she wanted at all. I never asked her if it was okay to kiss her with so much passion or pull her close to me and embrace her with so much love, I just did it and didn't think much about it when I did. And I shouldn't have done that. It was very selfish of myself.

My heart just slowly broke as she pulled away from my embrace but I was sort of asking for it I guess. She backs away from me very slowly and I can see confusion crossing her face so I decided it was time to break the silence.

" I think i'll just let myself out." I mumble.

"No it's okay you can stay-" she hesitates. "- it's just I wasn't expecting you to kiss me. I've never kissed anyone before and....well I didn't expect my best friend to be my first." She says barely above a wisper, that if it wasn't so quiet already you wouldn't have been able to hear her.

"Well if you still just want to be friends, I- Im okay with that." I say sadly.

She noticed that sadness that was on my face and speaks up.

"No Tobias, I don't want to be friends anymore-"

I didn't give her time to explain why I just left, with her probably right behind me. But I stop when I realize what she's saying.

"Tobias, please wait!" She says sounding like she's about to break down and sob.

I turn around and there's only inches apart from us.

[picturesque-imperfection]

~Masterlist~

Masterlist for 

Wherever the Flowers Grow Wild and Wherever the Birds Fly Free

{Part 1}

{Part 2}

{Part 3}

{Part 4}

{Part 5}

{Part 6}

{Part 7}

{Part 8}

{Part 9}

{Part 10}

{Part 11}

[picturesque-imperfection]

Wherever the Flowers Grow Wild and Wherever the Birds Fly Free {Part 9}

~Masterlist~

Song: I’ll Be Good by Jaymes Young

Harlow’s POV

“Knock Knock.” I said as I entered the Fearscape training room.

Four was at the computer and turned his head to give me a welcoming smile as I walked in.

“Hey! Have a seat.” He continued typing and tapping the keys and buttons on the screen as I sat down facing him.

“So, you have to test me again?” I asked, not wanting to go back under the simulation.

“Yes. Your first result were inconclusive, there wasn’t any clear definition of your fears. It was only a matter of seconds until you woke up, which isn’t normal.” He explained, pulling a chair next to me, our knees almost touching.

I sighed, running my fingers through my hair to get it out of my face.

“Alright. As long as Eric wont be interrupting.” I shuddered as flashes from the first Fearscape entered my mind.

“Do you remember anything from your simulation?” Four asked, scanning my face calmly.

“Yes.” I stated, looking back at him.

“Okay. How long did you think you were under?” 

“Not long, maybe 5 minutes at the most.” I bit my lip trying to calculate the time I was in my last Fearscape.

“This time I will be watching, Eric is busy with Max and Phillip, it’s just me.” He stood up, reaching for the needle. 

I brushed my hair aside and reclined in the chair, breathing deeply as darkness followed the pinch.

I blinked several times, trying to focus on my surroundings.

There were lights, fireworks, sounds, screaming, shouting, and laughter filling my ears. A sign up ahead told me to enter the carnival and circus area.

I walked, trying to breath and drown out the noise.

Hysterical laughter came floating out of the first tent I had to walk through, chilling me to the core. It reminded me of Philip and the horrible movies they play in the movie theater.

I walked in, keeping a steady pace, looking straight ahead, not minding the laughs that tickled my ear. 

A clown popped up in front of me his makeup more than pleasant. He reared back his head, sending waves of ear shattering trills throughout the tent. I could see the light from the exit, I tried moving around him, keeping my head low. Another clown blocked me, just as evil looking as the first.

My throat tightened and my body tensed as they threatened to touch me, blocking my exit. 

A third clown came behind me, a deep guttural giggle rising from his gut. 

“NOPE!” I said and dashed through the creepy creatures, gasping in the fresh, open air as the tent flap closed behind me. 

I began laughing at myself and the silly fear I had with clowns. It was irrational and stupid, but the fact their faces were hidden and that I couldn’t tell their true emotions really did not make me feel comfortable.

I hated clowns and I hated masks, whether emotional, physical, or psychological.

The next tent I had to enter was larger than the first. I lifted the flap and stepped inside.

I walked onto a stage, a spotlight shining in my face. An announcer cracked his whip and began shouting towards the silent crowd. I shielded my eyes to see how many were seated. I saw faces I recognized, Harper, Echo, Four, Kyla, Jackson, my parents, and people I knew from my old faction and from Dauntless.

“Ladies and Gentlemen I know announce, Harlow the Harlot. Accused of committing a crime with a leader, Eric, in order to reach the top. The pleasure must have been just enough to place her at the #1 slot. ” 

Good thing I already lived this fear, it didn’t phase me, the only thing that did was the looks of anger, disappointment, and sadness from my friends and family. They jeered and shouted. I tried yelling at them to explain myself, but their voices only roared louder. I decided to stop talking and let them give it to me. 

I hated being misunderstood. I hated my loved ones being disappointed in me too.

An exit sign suddenly shone to my left, and I scrambled towards it, everyone’s eyes following my movements as their shouts dimmed behind me. 

I ran into an open part of the carnival, rides flashing, kids running, people shouting, and riders screaming. 

“Hey Harlow!” Echo ran up beside me, grabbing my hand. 

She ran, dragging me behind her.

“Slow down!” I yelled at her, laughing.

The crowds of people became more dense, enclosing around me and my sister. She pummeled through the people, not caring what they thought.

“Echo!” I yelled as her hand slipped out of mine. 

“Wait!” I shouted above the noise.

Her little braid bobbed ahead. I was losing her. 

“Echo! Where are you?!” I shouted, breaking through the crowd.

I darted my eyes over the throng of people, she was no where in sight. I didn’t know where I was and I was discombobulated. My heart beat faster as I knew she was gone and had left me behind. 

“Great.” I muttered, realizing that everything would be just fine, I only had to move on. She would get to me eventually.

I hated being left behind.

There was yet another tent, it was small, just big enough for about five people. I didn’t remember this fear being in my previous SIM...

I stepped inside, complete darkness engulfing me. I stood still, frozen in place as sudden, horrific noises, petrified screams, creepy voices, and psychotic whispers attacked my senses. I couldn’t see or feel a thing, the noise itself made my skin crawl. 

Then flashes of faces, crazed people, abstract images, maddening lights, and chaotic pictures flashed before my eyes in the strobe lights.

Nothing made sense and I couldn’t stop it. There was an unsettling feeling in my gut that made me clench my teeth. Since my senses were on overload, I couldn’t concentrate. My mind became uneasy, and I felt sick. I decided to sing. I sang the first thing that came to mind and struggled to move my paralyzed body through the tent. 

Wherever the Flowers Grow Wild and Wherever the Birds Fly Free,

That’s where you’ll find me

That’s where I’ll be.

I’ll love you through the high, I’ll love you through the low,

Meet me where our love will grow

Wherever the Flowers Grow Wild and Wherever the Bids Fly Free.

The old Amity folk song welcomed past memories, drowning out the deafening noise and maddening chaos.

Suddenly all went quiet, the lights stopped and the images halted. The roof of the tent opened, letting moonlight shine over me. 

I took a deep breath, realizing my lungs were screaming for air.

Walking outside of the small, constricting tent, all was still and tranquil, oddly peaceful. 

The crowds were gone, the rides were down, and the silence was deafening. Going from one extreme to the other made my senses confused.

I walked around, trying to find where the people disappeared to. I ended up walking from one end to another with no sign of a human being. Before I gave up, an awful smell flooded my nostrils, making me gag. I tried to follow it without throwing up.

The smell became worse as I approached a field. I hurled the contents of my stomach onto the grass. Stumbling forward, the smell made me feel dizzy. A large object caught my feet, making me fall. I hit the ground hard, turning to observe what I tripped over.

A blank, ghostly face looked at me, it’s eyes jaded over.

I gasped, covering my mouth as I scooted away. I hit another body behind me. I shot up, realizing the whole field was full of dead bodies. Everyone, kids and all, were dead and rotting before me. The sudden feeling of being alone overtook me like flood water bursting through a dam. I was alone, all by myself. The last person alive. 

No one to love, no one to be with. I was the only one.

The feeling that came over me made me shake. I ran away from the decaying bodies, back into the abandoned carnival. I gasped for air, my lungs burning. Tears spilled onto my cheeks, sobs escaped my quivering lips. I felt dead inside.

I couldn’t breath, I couldn’t see, I felt as if I were dying. My being burned, longed, ached for someone, anyone to be with.

I was running through the circus, the tents, the rides, past the gates.

The lack of oxygen made my legs give out. I stumbled, suddenly falling into a dark void. I screamed, but no sound came out. A strange, empty pain ached in my stomach. I wanted someone to hear me, but there was no sound.

I was falling, falling in the darkness, my senses dead, my heart slowing. I gave one last ounce of my energy to scream.

A bright light appeared, ripping me out of the void. A sensation took over my body, like a vibration. My retinas burned and my skin felt fiery as the light hit me. 

I sat up, gulping in the air as if I had just been under water.

A pair of eyes darted around my face, their dark tint reflecting the bright room lighting. 

“Harlow?” He asked me.

His hands were holding my arms in place on the rests from the chair. I pulled them from under his grip, wrapping them around my own torso. My throat was hoarse and my lungs really did burn, I wanted a cold glass of water

“This time you passed your last checkpoint and went through all of your fears, even your worst one. You were out for maybe 10 minutes.” 

Four was messing with the screen, looking at the data of my Fearscape. 

Last time Eric touched me and brought me out of my simulation, it was the worst feeling, but it was relieving. I was confused as to why I was ripped out of my Faerscape, I knew he had something to do with it. I figured he tripped the system to let me go without having to endure the terrible reality of my own fears. 

“Here, drink. You were screaming your head off.” Four handed me a glass.

I didn’t look at him, only glancing at the water. I gulped it down as I heard him clicking away.

“I just don’t understand how you woke up so quickly last time.” He muttered.

“It was Eric. He must have tampered with it.” I said.

Four looked contemplative, “I don’t know that he would do that after all that has happened.” 

“It makes sense. I am basically living my worst fears as of now, why go through them again for him to see?” It made sense to me. That day I left the room, shooting him daggers, I wanted him to feel guilty for taking me out and possibly costing us more trouble.

“It would make sense, but the records show the serum was clean and the footage was the exact same until your chaotic scene. Here, watch.” 

Four rewound the footage, showing the little tent and the maddening chaos that went on inside. Before I could exit, there was a struggle I did not have in my most recent SIM. My hands seemed to be tied by some invisible force, I struggled against them. I was being yanked out of the tent, then I was gone, the simulation fading.

“What was that? That didn’t happen this time...” I said, examining the screen.

I was baffled, as was Four. There seemed to be no explanation for the strange occurrence. 

“What happened in the room while I was out?” 

Four scratched his neck, trying to remember.

“You were twitching so Eric grabbed your arms.” He answered slowly, replaying the scenario in his head.

“Is that possible?” I asked in disbelief that his touch could bring me out of a fear simulation.

“No, I don’t think it is, but now I’m thinking it can be.” He looked down at me, eyebrows raised.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Eric’s POV

“You can’t give her the test, it’s too risky. You both could be accused of tampering with the serum or simulation.” Four ordered.

He just explained to me what had happened during Harlow’s recent Fearscape. It seemed impossible that my touch had brought her out of it before.

“Alright. I’m almost getting used to not seeing her.” 

I was frustrated with having to avoid her by my choice, but now I was being made to. I wasn’t very keen on being ordered to do things, especially from Four. The last day of initiate testing was tomorrow, then hopefully I could make peace with her and resolve any unanswered questions and concerns.

“The only issue with her Fearscape is that it physically drains her more than anyone I have seen. I will be personally responsible for watching her vitals.”

“Wait, so you’re telling me her life is in danger when she goes under?” Worry flooded over me, anger rising towards Four.

“Yes and no...” I could tell he quickly regretted telling me that little bit of information.

I turned away from him, rubbing my hand over my worn and tired face.

“If she is hurt, I will hold you personally responsible. Am I clear?”

Four nodded as he swallowed hard. He was worried too.

This girl was just full of surprises. When could she ever catch a break. 

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Harlow’s POV

I entered the testing room, a fancier reclining chair in the middle and a spotlight illuminating a circle around it. 

Each Dauntless leader sat in a viewing booth, screens everywhere to watch each initiate’s Fearscape.

I saw Eric walking into the viewing booth as Four entered the room I was in. He gave a smile, motioning to the chair. 

Sitting own, I braided my hair back and out of the way. Four prepared the serum and typed some information into the computer beside the chair. Leaning back, Four began to strap my arms and legs in.

“New procedure. Safety precautions.” 

I nodded my head as I looked up at the ceiling, trying to steady my racing heart rate. I knew I was the reason there were straps on the chair, they didn’t want me unintentionally killing myself.

As soon as the serum was injected into my artery, I closed my eyes, preparing to go through my Fearscape a third time.

Eric’s POV

I watched her Fearscape, each decision made was with precision and her transitions were smooth. Her fears all had a central theme, control. She liked to feel in control of herself if not her environment as well. 

I sat in my seat among the leaders, slightly proud of their comments on how she handled each fear level.

I observed Four monitoring her vitals. I could see see her heart rate increasing and slowly decreasing as she encountered each fear. Her twitching and flailing was prohibited by her restraints, my idea to keep her from hurting herself any more than she already was.

I heard her voice floating up to the room. She was singing in her simulation and in the chair. Her lips moved as she clenched her fists, threatening to rip off the straps.

She was reaching the end of her Fearscape. Four was now standing, his face in the monitors, glancing back and forth between it and Harlow. She struggled against her restraints, her eyes rolling in the back of her head. I stood up, moving up towards the large viewing glass as worry began to flood my mixed emotions.

I was becoming concerned, trying to trust Four and his ability to help her. I turned my head to watch what she was doing in her simulation. It was her last fear, one I haven’t seen before. 

She tripped over a body, the cold, dead face staring back. 

It was me. 

I heard loud beeping coming from the room, Four shot up, checking her eyes, pulse, and brainwaves. She was seizing, foam spilling out of her mouth.

I spun around, striding out of the room. 

I could save her.

“Eric!” I heard Max shouting behind me as the door closed.

I ignored him, charging through the door towards Harlow and Four. Her wrists and ankles were bleeding from pulling so hard against the straps.

“Eric don’t you dare touch her.” Four warned as I continued to march up to the chair.

She flailed, sending fear through my veins. Her heart rate was too high, her brainwaves going haywire. She let out a gut wrenching scream, making my knees weaken.

I reached my hand out, ready to save this beautiful girl that was messing up my life. A hard object hit my face, knocking me off balance and making me see stars.

“I said no!” Four said, punching me again. 

He hit my stomach, knocking the wind out of me. I wasn’t here to fight, I wanted to save her. I ignored him as he kept shoving me and pushing me away from her.

His punches only dazed me, everything going in slow motion. Her screams pierced through the room, shattering my heart.

All I saw was her. All I wanted was her.

Harlow’s POV

I fluttered my eyes open to a struggling Eric and to Four who was wrestling with him. 

Coughing, my whole body ached. My wrists and ankles were bleeding, my head was pounding, my lungs burned, and my throat was on fire.

“Harlow...” Eric whispered, his eyes pained.

I took all the energy I had to smile. My eyes were heavy and closing them welcomed the darkness that helped me to ignore my pain.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Echo’s POV

“WE DID IT!!!” I shouted as other cheers rang up into the Pit. 

Jackson swept me up into a kiss then hugged my beaming sister.

“Congrats Hippy.” He said to her.

“Thanks Jacks.” She said back, squeezing him.

Harlow came and hugged me next, I closed my eyes, thankful she was here another day for me to do this. 

The crowd of initiates throbbed. There was hugging and kissing and screaming and shouting. It was so joyous. I wanted to watch and soak it all in.

Eric and For watched with pride from above, smirks playing on their lips.

Kyla and Harper showed up, a group hug in the making.

“Let’s get more tattoos!!” Harper shouted, a bold glow about her.

“Yes!” I agreed, running after her towards the parlor.

Harlow’s POV

I ran to catch up with Echo and Harper, Kyla right beside me.

I hadn’t put much thought into what I wanted if I made it this far. 

Thankfully Harper brought to us all a simple design she made that we could all share. It was beyond perfect.

“I love it!” I exclaimed as I hugged her. 

As I waited for everyone to finish, pitter-pattering made me look up from observing my new tattoo.

It was raining. Water trickled down into the Pit, people running from getting drenched.

Echo’s face distorted into a mock disgust looking at the pouring rain as she sat next to me.

“I’m glad you’re alive.” She said as she looked at me.

Her brown eyes glimmered and her hair was falling out of her loose braid.

“Me too.” I laughed.

There was a scare during my test, but I lived without any after effects or issues. The shift in my simulation was startling to me. Seeing Eric’s face made me hurt more. I guess there was an odd connection between us. Now I wonder if he’ll have the balls to come talk to me since I graduated and am no oficially Dauntless.

Harper and Kyla came out of their stalls, happy giggles and delighted personas. 

“What should we do next? I feel like we need to celebrate more than this...” Kyla mentioned as her gaze drifted out into the rainy Pit.

“We can’t party too hard, we have to job shadow tomorrow.” Echo said.

“Well duh!” Kyla said, rolling her eyes.

“We don’t have to drink too much.” She smirked as she hooked arms with Echo and Harper.

“I think I’m going to hang back tonight guys. It’s been a rough day.” I said staring out into the rain.

“You never turn down a dance!” Harper gasped sarcastically.

“Guys she literally went through hell three times, and was tortured, give her a break.” My sister said as she scanned my face for any other emotion or excuse.

“Haha, I know......Okay fine I’ll go.” I muttered, rubbing my newly tattooed finger. Excitement stirred in my stomach thinking about the last dance I went to.

“Yes!” Kyla exclaimed, slightly jumping on the balls of her feet.

“Don’t make me change my mind!” I threatened as they began to run into the rain, their little screams making me giggle.

I was happy. I really was, but there was just something that felt off inside of me. Whether it was the serum still in my bloodstream, too much cake, or I was PMS-ing, I needed to clear my mind. Music and dancing always seemed to do the trick.

I wandered back to the initiate dorms, people packing up their stuff for the move within the next week when we were to get our jobs. I changed into my eye-catching dress and shoes, admiring my leg tattoo.

I traveled through Dauntless headquarters with my girls, a flash of lightning made me look out into the open Pit. The deep roll of thunder made me smile. I loved storms. It made me feel a certain way. Wild, free, adventurous, brave, fearless, the list goes on. 

Apparently we weren’t the only ones with the idea of partying tonight. Several initiate’s faces flashed in the lightning and the clubs lights. I couldn’t wait so I pummeled through the crowd, claiming my spot near the middle of the dance floor. The loud bass vibrated my bones, the lights played abstract images on my closed eyelids, the rhythm moving my body. I felt a different type of release. I was safe. I was now Dauntless. No more fighting to stay above the line, no more trying to please leaders, no more fear simulations, or at least I hoped.

Bodies around me pulsed, their contact making me feel strangely alone. Eric’s muscular arms weren’t wrapped around me, his eyes weren’t searching mine, his body wasn’t close to my own. I tried to dismiss the thoughts of him, not wanting to think of him. It made me frustrated that he kept avoiding me, even now that I’m Dauntless. I wish he’d get over himself and come find me. I wish he’d stop hiding himself from me. I wish he’d help me understand himself, me, this connection, us. 

The music came to a halt, the lights stopped flashing, lightning our only source of light. Several agitated groans and shouts came from the now still crowd. Harper found me amongst the shuffling bodies.

“Well, looks like our night is going to be cut short.” She said, Echo and Kyla behind her.

“That’s okay. We will need to rest up.” I said, moving my sweaty hair off of my neck. The odd feeling came back into my gut, making me want to curl in bed and never move.

What was wrong with me?!

I followed the girls out, making their way towards the dorms.

“Hey guys, I’m going to take a walk.” I shouted to them, Echo turned to nod her head.

I walked the opposite way, cutting through the people filing out of the club. The rain was coming down harder and the thunder was louder. The lightning was constant, my eyes not getting a break from the bright light coming throw the Pit ceiling. I made my way down to the bottom where puddles were collecting, making mud in the gravel and dirt.

Leaning against the rock wall, I took off my heels, letting my toes feel the cool water and squishy mud between my feet.

I ventured out into the middle of the Pit, lifting my face to welcome the cold droplets. Outstretched arms, bare feet, slowly spinning, a sense of freedom overcoming my being. 

I felt eyes on me, not the onlookers wandering through, but holes being bore into my head. My arms dropped as my head swiveled to see Eric in the shadows, staring, watching me. I stood there, water dripped from my dress and my hair. Lightning illuminated his dark figure, thunder causing my heart to skip.

He moved, out of the dark, into the Pit. His appearance looked soaked even in the dry tunnel. He walked, his figure stiff and tense. His expression was hard, confused, angry, sad, upset. I stepped one foot back, prepared to do something, anything.

His hair was plastered to his head, his gray t-shirt clinging to his muscular chest and torso. I opened my mouth, words not finding their way out of my warring mind.

”E-Eric...” I managed to say.

He was an arm’s length away, “Shhh...” He said as he grabbed my face, placing his cold, wet lips on mine.

It caught me off guard. My gut clenched as his hands touched my arms and face. A warm feeling rose in my stomach, making me feel dizzy. Our lips locked in a hurried craze, making up for the loss of contact from previous weeks. He pulled me closer by my waist. My wet dress gave me goosebumps, but the warmth from his steamy body made me feel at ease.

He broke away, panting. His hand still on my cheek, foreheads touching.

His steely colored eyes penetrated mine, a shiver was felt through our close proximity. 

I didn’t know what to think, was this real? Was this his way of saying sorry? He wasn’t drunk. Why was he already wet when he walked in here? Why kiss me here, now, like this? 

“Stop analyzing, Harlow.” His deep voice broke through my mind game.

“Come with me.” He took my hand, tugging me along with his long strides. 

Puddles splashed and I tread carefully so I wouldn't slice open my feet in the gravel. Eric thought I wasn’t moving fast enough so he picked me up, carrying me bridal style. His face was set in a determined line, not looking at me. I could tell he was trying to get to our destination and not get distracted by me and my incessant gaze. 

My body jostled only slightly against his hard body, my arms wrapped around his neck, my feet bouncing with his steps.

We arrived at his apartment, a lot nicer than I had expected.

It was well furnished, manly, and modern. He set me down in the middle of the room, chills running down my spine as I dripped onto his hardwood flooring. I turned to look out the huge windows, rain gliding down as the lightning created distorted shadows on the wall.

He flung open his large doors onto the balcony, rain splattered on the floor.

He didn’t say a word, silently striding into another room. He soon emerged with clothes in his hand, handing me some sweat pants and a t-shirt.

“You can change in there.” He pointed, his clothes still soaked.

I shuffled into the bathroom, making sure I didn’t slip on the puddles I created.

Looking in the mirror was an unpleasant surprise. My makeup had washed down my face and my hair was something else.

I washed my face with a clean cloth and slipped into his clothes. They hung loosely on my frame, making me feel small.

I braided my wet hair back, hanging my wet clothes up over the glass shower door to dry.

When I re-entered the living room, Eric was leaning on the door frame, facing the storm. He changed into a similar getup to mine, gray joggers and a black t-shirt. I loved him in black.

My mind was still reeling from the unexpected kiss and I didn’t know what was going to happen next. We avoided each other for weeks and now here I am in his apartment.

Lightning flashed, outlining his strong, sturdy figure. His face looked contemplative, his mind in another realm.

“I went running in the rain to clear my head. That’s why I was wet when you saw me. I kissed you because I had no words to say. You looked beautiful, wild, and free. Just like you always are. Nature has a way with you, Harlow. It’s something else.” A small smirk played on his lips as he scanned the horizon of the city and tumultuous storm.

He took a deep breath, his face returned to straight and expressionless.

I stayed where I was, almost afraid to venture any closer. His mood was off tonight. Maybe it was the fact he could actually be with me now that shook him, maybe he felt an odd connection too.

He stirred, standing upright, face locked on the skyline.

“I need to show you something.” He turned to me, walking in large, slow strides, face set in a stern frown.

There was something bothering him, stirring an unwelcomed feeling within him.

I wasn’t sure it would end god or bad...

[picturesque-imperfection]

Wherever the Flowers Grow Wild and Wherever the Birds Fly Free {Part 8}

~Masterlist~

Song 1: Where’s My Love by Syml

Echo's POV

"Harlow?!" I gasped as I pushed my legs to keep going.

"Harlow, where are you?!" My lungs were burning, sweat dripping down my body, and my throat was scratchy from shouting. 

I stopped, leaning against the rocky wall to catch my breath. 

"I'm sorry...." I whispered knowing she couldn't hear me.

I slid down the wall, holding my head in my hands. Heart racing, I started hyperventilating. All this stress and anxiety and anger, I couldn't handle it. Tears leaked down my already dripping face. I don't know how long I ran. I didn't even know where I was. A sob made its way out of my aching throat, echoing in the tunnel. 

"Echo? Echo?! Are you okay?" A hand was placed on my rocking shoulder.

I raised my sweaty head to see Four, deep concern filling his dark, mysterious eyes. 

"I don't know where she is. It's bad, Four. It's really bad." I choked out my words. 

He face looked contemplative as he processed his thoughts. His eyes met mine again compassionately, "I'll find her. I promise. Go back to the dorms and wash up okay?"

 He helped me up, making sure I could walk.

"Four? Why is this happening? She wouldn't ever think to do such a thing..." I wiped my face with the sleeve of my shirt. 

He looked at the ground briefly, his mouth slightly pursed, "I know. It will be okay."

I nodded my head and turned to leave. I needed to get to the bottom of this. These rumors were awful. I trusted my sister. She wouldn't do this. It wouldn't surprise me if Eric did it, but not with her. Definitely not. I was going to help make things right. I couldn't bare to see my sister so distressed. 

Four's POV

I watched Echo walk off, her feet dragging along the ground. I took a deep breath and headed into the direction of the security sector. Hoping she was caught on some surveillance videos, I could track her down and talk to her to set things straight. I opened the large, steel, pass code-locked doors to reveal a wall of screens, each showing a different place of Dauntless. My eyes scanned them briefly until the fell upon a familiar person blocking the bottom section of screens.

"Eric?" I asked, folding my arms.He jumped slightly from his hunched over position and turned to face me, an angered look on his face.

"What are you doing here..." He grumbled. 

"Looking for Harlow." My answer made him soften his expression. He was extremely tense. The stress of the situation must be hitting him hard too.

"Has Max talked to you?" I asked him as I vaguely scanned the security screens.

"Yes." He practically spat his answer out. 

"What did he say?" I asked. I was sincere and I wanted to know.

"Look Four. I don't know what you're trying to do to me or her. Whatever sick joke this is you will suffer for this." Veins pooped out of his neck and his finger threateningly jabbed at my chest. 

I blinked my eyes in disbelief of his accusation. "Eric I did not have any part in this!" I stood my ground.

"You sure made yourself clear to watch my back, is this some sort of sick punishment?!" He was in my face, yelling, anger rising. 

"I may not like you very much Eric, but I would never do this to anyone now calm down and let's focus on who really matters here!!" He spun back around, leaning his arms on a desk, head hung low. 

"I can't find her....and seeing as how the consequences are, I don't know if I'll ever see her again." He muttered quietly. 

"We will find her. You will see her. I'll make sure she's found. I know you probably don't want to be seen with her." I stepped closer to the screens, inspecting them one by one. 

Eric and I started with the cafeteria scene with her and Echo, then them in the hallway, it was painful to watch and I couldn't imagine what Eric was feeling. 

"How much do you care for her?" I asked this question, knowing that his response could answer a lot of questions. 

I turned my head from the screen to look at him. His eyes were on the scene playing out over and over in front of us between Echo and Harlow. He bit his bottoms lip and looked down. Was he trying not to cry?

"Yes. I do. I think I care too much. It's messing me up, Four." 

His voice was cracking. The sole fact he was telling me this in the first place was a huge tell tale of his feelings. Usually he brushes them off, makes it seem like it's not a big deal, or acts like the person doesn't exist when they're not around. And here he is, the only one, the first one, looking over at security detail to find her. He's using all he can to help her. 

"Okay." I said, not pushing him anymore. 

"Okay, rewind 30 seconds." Eric flips a switch on the desk and the picture replays. "They're talking, she back up, and runs to...blow up screen D-45." Eric flips another switch. 

"She runs...now E-6." 

We watched Harlow run and run through several tunnels and sectors. Each close up of her face showing tears and distress. Unusual for her, she usually seemed in control of her emotions. To me, another sign of how much she cares. She not only is taking on her distress, but Eric's. She's worried about him and his punishment or consequences. I glanced over at Eric again, deep concern covering his face. 

"She seems to disappear between G-5 and...J-7...and no where else does it show a sign of her..." He says as he replays each clip. 

I start to pace to think about those areas of Dauntless head quarters. Secret tunnels? Rooms? No security in tunnels? Somewhere where the camera doesn't show? 

"Stay here and watch, I'm going to go down there. Tell me if you find anything." I told Eric. 

He started to interject, but replied with a stern nod. 

Eric's POV

I wanted to find her and hug her and tell her everything would be okay, so cliche, but it's what she needed. I sat in the chair at the desk and rubbed my face with my hands, trying to escape the pictures of her pained, tear streaked face. 

I've never dealt with this before and it was hard. I fought through the talk with Max because I had to defend her. If anything, I'm the one who is guilty for initiating the spiral of events. If we are found guilty then I will have to endure the embarrassment of being with her throughout the rest of initiation, for all to see the scandal, then be dismissed from my leadership position. 

I observed Four jogging through the hallways, trying to find Harlow. I kept my eyes trained on the two cameras where she disappeared. I knew she wouldn't jump into the chasm, I still prayed it didn't happen. She knew she had a purpose. She was needed and important by so many people. 

Where was she...?

Four's POV

I jogged through the winding hallways and tunnels, gravel and rock crunching beneath my feet. She was nowhere near her dorm area or the training area. Cameras G-J were in the chasm area near the rooftops and train tracks. We would have seen her if she caught a train and we would have seen her if she escaped to a roof. I reached camera G-5 and looked up, knowing Eric would be watching. 

I started walking, carefully observing each hallway and tunnel. Camera J-5 and 6 were in a single hallway. It was dim and you could hear water from the chasm echoing around the rocky walls. J-7 was in the hallway after the chasm. I walked down, no obvious rooms or tunnels. It was just a straight, narrow hallway. I walked to the end of it, it turned out into the bridge of the chasm. 

To make sure, I looked down, she wouldn't have jumped. I turned back around to head into the hallway when falling rocks hitting the ground caught my attention. I stepped back out onto the bridge and looked up in case she climbed above a looming fate beneath, she wasn’t there, but someone had o have loosened those rocks.

Eric's POV

I was confused when Four looked up the wall of the chasm. I knew he would try to clear things up and help her when I couldn't at this point in time. 

I didn't like him, but I knew him and Harlow had an odd sibling type of relationship, whether they saw it or not it was evident. It made me slightly glad that he believed her, and I guess me as well.

Thinking of the pending distress that awaited Harlow when she returned, I decided to leave to go to my own apartment and try to map out this explosive rumor. It was going to be hard, but the source would eventually rear its ugly head and I would crush it. Harlow didn't deserve any of this, it's up to me to clear it up. 

An empty feeling bubbled up inside me and it started ever since she passed my table that morning. It wasn't anger or envy or hatred, it was almost a longing. I wanted it gone because it was messing me up. She was messing me up. I don't feel like myself, but I feel like a better version of myself, despite all that has been going on. I slammed my fist on my table, vibrating the floor ever so slightly. 

Flashes of memories ran in my mind. Her sassy entrance into Dauntless, her knocking her sister out, her glances that sent shivers down my spine, her kiss, her lips, her smile, her presence. Everything was radiant and magnetic. 

Was this deeper than I intended it to be? 

Or was this going where I wanted it to go...?

Echo's POV I entered the dorm hearing chatter and voices flowing to meet me at the entrance.

“Echo!” Jackson broke off from our friends, running to wrap me into a tight hug.

“Where were you?” He asked into my sweaty hair.

I breathed in his familiar scent. Anger suddenly rose within me, knowing he probably believed the rumors and sure didn’t help to find her. 

“Trying to find my sister.” I released myself from his arms, my eyebrows scrunched in anger.

“What’s wrong?” Confusion overcame his expression.

“We need to talk.” I said, turning around and heading out of the tension filled dorm.

I hear his footsteps behind me. I rounded the corner, just out of earshot of those gossiping in the dorm.

“Please tell me you aren’t fueling this fire.” My arms were crossed, a stern tone taking over my shaky voice.

“Echo, I-I don’t know.” He said, his stuttering told me otherwise.

I stepped up to him, my finger poking his chest.

“My sister would never do such a thing. I don’t want you listening to them or egging them on.” My face became hot and his face was washed with concerned.

“Echo, let me talk.” His voice was even and smooth.

“What.” I stepped back, crossing my arms across my chest.

“Kyla, Harper, and I are trying to solve this. We don’t believe it, but we are skeptical as to how this started. Kyla has been asking around as have I. Harper has been quiet, more than normal, but she’s been helping. I trust your sister, with my life. I know she earned her spot justly. So don’t worry. We will figure it out.” He reached for my pointing hand, rubbing his thumb over my knuckles.

I sighed with relief and wrapped my arm around him, thankful my boyfriend wasn’t quick to assume. He kissed the top of my head, making me relax.

He led me back into the dorm to our circle of friends.

“You okay Echo?” Kyla asked rubbing my back as I sat on my bed. 

“I’ll be fine as soon as this is solved and she is found.” I crossed my legs and rested my head on my hand.

“We have nothing so far...” Kyla said slumping down onto her bed.

“Where’s Phillip?” Harper’s head shot up, looking around the dorm. 

We all looked with her, he usually was plastered to Harper’s side in the dorms. I couldn’t see his shaggy hair anywhere.

Harlow’s POV 

* Song 2: Take It All by Ruelle *

My head was pounding, my heart still racing, my wrists aching...

My eyes fluttered opened to see the outline of a man. His back was to me, standing in front of a table.

I tried to massage my aching wrists, only to find out they were chained to the wall. My movements caused the chains to jingle and the man turned around, smiling sadistically.

“Phillip?!” I was in shock. 

What was he doing?!

“Oh Harlow, how nice of you to wake up.” He sauntered over to me, running his pointer finger down my cheek. 

“I know you’re going to ask me what I’m doing with you here all chained up and all, so let me help you.” 

He pulled a chair from the dark corner of the small room, I heard rushing water in the distance, probably from the chasm.

“I can’t believe you read everyone but me Harlow. Couldn’t you see it? I tried to make it so obvious, but you never caught on. And, oh, oh those little instances with you and Eric. Hm...it’s a shame isn’t it. Harlow the Harlot, I hear it is now. Your little scandal is now in the open. I couldn’t let you get away with that now could I?”

His whole demeanor changed from sweet and innocent to psychotic and insane. His evil persona made me shiver. My arms were aching as were my legs from running so far and the heavy chains did not help. I made a very long, scenic route to the chasm, only to wake up here. I didn’t know where I was or how I got here.

“It’s too late to analyze everything now my dear. It was very difficult carrying you down here by myself, you should be thankful.” He got up, staring me down.

I didn’t know how to react. I just stared back at him, hoping and praying I could get out of this. His eyes squinted at me, I mimicked him. He let out a thunderous laugh that shook me to the core. 

He lunged at me, his fist gripping my throat, “How adorable are you.” 

Speaking through clenched teeth, he looked me up and down. I flinched in his grasp, gasping for air. I couldn’t see anything in the room and my chains were stuck, so if I knocked him out with my head, I’d be stuck here until he woke up. Shouting would be drowned out by the chasm’s rapids, not a good idea to waste my energy.

He let go of my throat, giving me a shove as he turned back around to his table. What was wrong with him? 

“Why did you start the rumors?” I asked because I genuinely did not know.

“Because, my dear, you were supposed to be mine.” He was messing with something on the table, not talking to my face.

I shuffled my feet, making him shoot his head in my direction. He walked slowly towards me, fingering a small metal object that was glowing red.

“Now you’re tainted, ruined. Those lips need to be cleansed, those eyes need to be fixed, and your innocence needs to be restored. Don’t try to move too much, wouldn’t want to hurt any more of your pretty little face.” 

He had a small metal rod that looked like it was heated, hot enough to make it glow an orange-red. My eyes widened as I shook my head.

“Phillip, I never slept with him and we aren’t going out.” 

He kept coming closer, staring at my lips. 

“Phillip, tell me how you feel, I can give you a chance. Have you ever thought I was trying to make you jealous with Eric? I was trying to get your attention, I was trying to get you to admit you liked me.”

I hated what was coming out of my mouth, but I needed him to snap out of his little act.

His eyes shot up to meet my desperate ones. They were cold and hard, an evilness lurked behind them.

“What?” He asked, stopping his advancement towards me.

“I never knew how you felt. I wanted you to talk to me about it, so I tried making you jealous. I’m sorry you got the wrong idea, but it was you who I thought of when I kissed Eric.” 

I was taking a chance and thankfully my acting skills weren’t too shabby. His head cocked to the side, lowering the contraption in his hand.

“Harlow, ever since I saw you walking to that bowl during the Choosing Ceremony, messing with your braid, I wanted you for my own. Your hand in mine, your lips on my lips, your body on my body. You are a radiant sun, you shine above all other girls. A beauty, a goddess, no one can compare.”

He was in a daze, his words hitting me full force. I shrunk in my chains, completely terrified of him, of whoever he was.

“Kiss me.” I spoke, interrupting his daydream.

He looked at me, his gaze softened and posture relaxed. My heart was leaping out of my chest. I did not know what I was getting myself into, but he was biting the hook. 

“Kiss. Me.” I said more forcefully, making him smirk.

He walked up to me, the hot rod still in his hand. He gently traced my lips with his thumb. He looked me in the eyes and I gave him a nod and a smirk and he closed the space between us. His lips met mine, rough and hard. It was difficult to keep up with his hungry state of mind. He broke away, hurriedly undoing my chains. His fingers shook, growling at his failed attempts. He got them loose, my arms dropping to my sides. After unchaining my feet, he picked me up, laying me down on the table. I wrapped my legs around his waist as he attacked my lips again, his hands traveling my sides. 

I let him. He needed to be distracted. When he broke contact with my lips, I took a breath, getting ready to destroy his little fantasy. He kissed my neck, down to my shoulders. It took every ounce of courage in me to not cower away. Before he reached too far down, I rolled on top of him, gaining control. I smirked at him as he stared at me like a wild animal. His hands rested at my hips, I slowly and seductively bent down over his face, inches away from his lips, I wanted him to squirm. He reached his head up to mine to quench the thirst for contact, but I backed away. Disappointment flashed across his eyes. I smirked again, traveling my hands up his torso to his face. I held my hands on his cheeks, staring into his eyes, his body shuffling under my weight. 

I then sat up, letting down my hair from my braid, tousling it around. My eyes never left his. He was mesmerized. 

“Close your eyes.” I said. 

“Well, why?” He asked me, the voice of a little boy squeaking out.

“Because, don’t you want to be surprised?” I tugged the the end of my shirt playfully.

He did so. I scanned the ground for his contraption and found it, lying beside the chains. With his eyes still closed, I raised my fist, bringing it down as hard as I could. There was a crack and he jolted, making me fall off of him onto the ground. Blood spattered from his nose, I grabbed his contraption, seeing it was a lighter of sorts. I hid it in my pocket, turning to defend myself.

His face was pained. I lunged and sent a kick to his stomach, his hands too busy with his nose to protect himself. He let out a grunt and reached to grab me. I ducked, he missed, stumbling into the wall. He growled at me, shoving his hand into his pocket, bringing out a blade. 

I squared up, watching his movements. He took a jab and I dodged out of his way. He smiled, blood covering his teeth bringing back the psycho.

I backtracked to gain more ground, but tripped over a rock hidden in the darkness. Phillip took his chance to pounce on me, pinning my arms under his knees. He took the blade and and slowly traced my lips with it. I squirmed, moving my head before he could do much damage. He let out another bone chilling laugh and held my chin in his strong grip, his blood sticky on my heated face.

“You think you’re so clever.” He spat on my face, I cringed.

His blade suddenly sliced on the left side of my lip. I didn’t flinch. My response angered him. He moved the weapon under my right eye, cutting in a straight line down to my cheek.

I let out a pain stricken shriek. I felt the blood pouring down the side of my face. He dragged me up, knife to my neck, as he chained me in place. I was tired, my muscles becoming stiff from exerting my energy. 

“Tsk, Tsk, Tsk Harlow. Not good.” He paced, spinning the knife in his hands. 

I spotted the lighter on the ground, inches away from my feet. It must have fallen out when I fell. I looked away from it, focusing on Phillip. 

“My dear, that deserves severe punishment. You thought you could get away with that? Well let me show you how I deal with girls who misbehave.” 

He reached down to my feet, picking up the lighter and turning it on. I mentally yelled at myself for not kicking it away. Before I could process it, he ripped my blood-soaked shirt off, tossing it behind him. He plunge the lighter by my collar bone. He repeatedly stabbed my arms, chest, and stomach with the scorching heat. I screamed out, hoping someone would hear. His hand grabbed my mouth, squeezing my sliced face. Tears blocked my vision as pain shot through my entire body.

His knife loomed over my heaving chest, his mouth curled into a grin, and his eyes crazily staring into my petrified orbs.

“PHILLIP!”  Heard someone behind us shout. His knife nicked my chest as he spun around. Over his shoulder, I saw Jackson and Four. 

Four lunged at him, knocking his knife out of his hands. Jackson scrambled towards me, keeping his eyes on Four and Phillip who were now fighting. My vision was becoming faded and blurry. I fell into Jackson’s arms then hit the ground as Jackson got knocked over. Phillip stood above me, Four dazed and Jackson knocked out. My eyes were getting heavy, I saw his blade glimmer in the dim light. 

“Phillip, don’t touch her.” A garbled female voice spoke in the darkness.

I heard more warped shouts, my body going numb. A loud bang sounded and Phillip crippled to the ground next to me. Strong arms hoisted me up, carrying me out of the darkness, it was Four. His deep voice quietly reassured me as we rhythmically moved to an unknown destination.

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Echo’s POV

“Harper, you’re next!” Four shouted as he typed something into his tablet, Harper entered the room and sat in the chair, door closing behind her.

Harlow sat next to me, playing with her hair out of boredom. Her eyes were bright again, and her face glowed it’s normal, radiant glow. The scars on her lip and under her eye were healing nicely, still pretty visible, but the medics said they could make them disappear forever once the healing was finished. She was recovering well given all that she went through. Phillip was detained and kept safely away, only escaping with minor injuries, in my opinion. Harper ended up shooting him in the leg, potentially killing him if we didn’t need him to confess. 

“Whatchu looking at?” Harlow caught me staring.

“Nothing...” I said and flipped my hair out of my face  with a grin.

She rolled her eyes, bouncing her legs in anticipation. Either she was waiting to get her fear landscape training over with or she was nervous to come into contact with Eric. 

They haven’t spoken for about 2 weeks while the whole trial was going on and she was in the infirmary healing. It bothered me, but it was probably better he stayed away. I could see him staring at her longingly as she walked by or as she ate. They always made eye contact, looking away quickly as if looking at each other was forbidden. It saddened me because they really did care for each other. 

“Harlow! Come on in.” Four motioned for her to go into the room, a shaken Harper striding out. 

She shot up, briskly walking towards the door.

Four was a life saver when it came it saving Harlow. He got us to help him and Eric put the pieces of the puzzle together. We found out it was Phillip by security footage of him stalking Harlow and Eric. Mainly Harlow, but we found his little cave near the bottom of the chasm when Four first looked for Harlow. It was a risky descent, but Jackson and Four decided to go down. I waited with Kyla and Harper. Harper finally went down and a gunshot was faintly heard above the roaring waters. I remember Four carrying her, she was covered in blood, shirtless, and unconscious. My heart stopped, I froze there, staring at my sister that night. Jackson stayed by my side the whole time she was in the infirmary getting stitched up. 

I was also the one to tell Eric. I knocked on his door, he swung it open, desperate to hear something. There were markers and papers everywhere in his room, tracking an unknown source. When I told him what happened he sat in his kitchen chair quietly, his hands holding his chin, covering his mouth. He didn’t say one thing as I spoke, no expression crossed his face, he was so still. He walked me out, thanking me, for telling him the news and believing him.

Now here we are, facing our fears in a simple simulation.

Eric’s POV

Four shut the door behind Harlow, his face shoved into his tablet. 

“Please, sit.” He said. 

I held the serum in my hand, positioned in front of the computer. She sat down, getting comfortable. Four made me hand over the injection gun. I cleared my throat to dismiss the silence looming over us as I moved out of his way. 

“This may sting.” He warned her as he positioned the needle by her neck. 

I turned to leave, not wanting to feel the tension. Her eyes fluttered up to mine, tingles running down my back. She held back her smile as she observed me shiver, the door shutting behind me into the room of awaiting initiates 

“If I can handle a blade and a lighter, I can handle a needle.” Her snide comment made me smile as I heard the door click. Gosh I missed her. She seemed frustrated at me, which was appropriate for how I’ve been avoiding her.

Four opened the door to me as she entered her Fearscape. I walked over to the screen, typing in a few things to calibrate the picture with her mind. Four sat down facing her chair, checking her vitals. I observed the scars on her lip and cheek, making her look fierce. I traced them, the feeling of her skin sending tingles in my fingertips. I touched her full lips, wanting to taste them again. I missed her touch and embrace. Even unconscious, her presence was so warming. 

“Eric...” Four spoke, my hand absentmindedly rubbing her unharmed cheek. 

I squinted my eyes at him, sliding back over to the computer.

She was calm and peaceful in the chair, but hell was breaking loose in her Fearscape. I called Four over to watch, he observed with curiosity and concern.

Harlow was different, anyone could have told you that. She was an enjoyable person, genuine, smart, loving, caring, but her fears were dark. They were very abstract, like a fever dream. It made me want to cower in the corner and hide.

She suddenly twitched. Four went over to check on her vitals.

She twitched again, my hand holding her arm in case she flailed out of the chair. 

She suddenly bolted upright, gasping for air. Her eyes were wide and crazed. She hyperventilated, searching the room for an anchor to the real world.

I grabbed her face and made her look at me.

“Harlow. Harlow, hey, it’s okay. You’re done. It’s over.” I tried to soothe her.

She was out for only a few seconds.

A cry escaped from her lips, her eyes flitting this way and that over my face.

I couldn’t hold back anymore, I wrapped her tightly in my arms, resting my head on hers. She was shaking, her heart beating hard against my chest.

“Harlow? Are you okay?” Four asked, nudging me out of the way so he could check her.

“Yeah..” She muttered, still dazed.

“Okay. You sure?” He asked again, searching her face.

“Yes.” She nodded her head, seemingly snapping out of her shocked state.

“You’re good to go.” He helped her up, leading her out of the door. 

Before the door fully closed, she shot a strange look in my direction, almost like daggers. 

Four glanced over at me, seeing our unpleasant exchange.

“We need to test her again.” He said, looking at the closed doors with deep concern and shock.

I shifted my gaze to the ground, she was more of an enigma than I was.

I wanted to so badly figure her out.   

[insyncbby]

Tobias and Tris both in Abnegation

Chapter 2 Tobias Pov

This year my father asked if I would help with the Abnegation initiation, since he knew he could trust me on helping turn those new 'adults' into a real Abnegation.

These past weeks have been very good I think the kids are getting the hang of how things go around here. I knows they were all born and raised Abnegation and they knew most things already but they weren't one of use just yet, so I have to break them of their old habit they tend to get. Especially sarcasm, we're not suppose to use it. Yet Miss Beatrice Prior has a knack for using it quite often, ill have to help her break that.

Tomorrow is the day they all become truly one of us and i'll finally get to hang out with Beatrice without it seeming weird. Well she says its not weird when I talk with her, but I know she tenses up every time I'm around her. Maybe I was wrong, maybe she doesn't like me at all. Maybe I should just leave her alone from now on. If she really enjoys talking with me she'll start the conversations her self, not me, and my pushy ways. No, Tobias don't think like that, it'll work out I just have to keep telling myself that, I have to believe my lies, to not break down right here right now, because the girl i've always loved might not love me back.

Tris POV ******************

(6 Months later)

It has been six months since I became Abnegation, six months since I've seen or heard from Tobias, six months since my life changed and went down hill really fast. I chose this life and I fully regret it. But I can't do anything about it now. I live all alone in my house my job is very dull and boring, I didn't want that job but being an Abnegation someone else chooses your job for you, and you have to deal with it.

I help with a group that organizes food and clothing to give to the factionless, it's not exciting and no one rarely talks. I practically live in silence and it isn't pleasent.

It has been three months since I last heard from my parents. The last time we spoke they were telling me I should look for a partner. I don't know how to do that, every guy i've ever talked to are gone, or at least 10 years older than me, they mentioned I should talk with Tobias because a great man, I thought that I good idea till he stopped talking to me the day after I became an official Abnegation. I think I might have see him once but I could have been hallucinating because when I looked again nobody or anything was there. It broke my heart.

And besides Tobias couldn't have possibly liked me, I'm not exactly pretty I'm really pale and scrawny. Even though Abnegation men aren't suppose to care if a woman is beautiful or not, even though you know they do care it's whether they want to tell you or not.

Maybe if I can find Tobias and just talk to him, we could work things out. I really hope we can. I miss seeing him smile at me. But then again he could be avoiding me for reasons on which I'll find out sooner or later.

[insyncbby]

015. After this person helped me out of the net I stood to the side as the rest jumped, but something about him he look familar, but very different, his eyes were like a midnight blue and I have only seen eyes that color once, and they were the eyes of this boy I once knew, his name was Tobias, and I remember my Father telling us he transfered here to Dauntless. Maybe that is him, maybe he'll remembers me from when we were children, but I doubt it, since he seems very well liked here wouldn't want to ruin his status by making him talk to a 'Stiff'. But somewhere deep down achs for him to remember, I don't know why, but I do know that I will find out.

[insyncbby]

014. Thirty years of being with the love of my life but it only took that idiot 30 seconds to take her away from me. I don't care if he's punished or not, all I want is her back, i'd give anything to see her smile again, to look at me with those bright blue eyes, to kiss me the way I'd forget how to think straight, I just want her back. My days are horrible without her, there's no one left that can make me feel the way I did around her. I don't see the point of waking up in the morning, because I know she won't be there. I loved her. And that idiot took away the only kind of love I have ever had with anyone before. My heart it now empty ,broken, and shattered to pieces and no one can repair it but her. I loved her and now i'll never get to tell her that again.

[insyncbby]

013. My first year being Dauntless wasn't, how do you put it? Wonderful! I had gotten drunk so many times that year, I don't clearly remember most of what happened that year at all. Dauntless wasn't the life I thought it was going to be. All I see is people doing stupid things trying to be brave, when they're clearly just acting like idiots. And since i'm the guy with only four fears, every girl throws themselves at me, like do they seriously think i'm going to do anything with them? Because i'm not, and i'm not one for showing my body either, since it's just mostly scars and ink that's about it, nothing more to it. But then sometimes I wonder if it would be better to be factionless not have to listen to anyones rules, you're practically free, and that's what I want to be.