The morning sun that had felt so warm and beautiful just a few minutes ago suddenly felt cold.
Nikki held tiny Leo tightly against her chest. The baby was completely unaware of the terrible news, happily chewing on his own little fist and blowing soft bubbles. But Nikki's heart was beating so fast it felt like a trapped bird trying to escape her ribs.
"They can't just take him," Nikki whispered, looking up at Silas. Her voice shook with a mix of deep fear and rising anger. "We saved him. We healed him. He belongs with us."
"I know, Maker. I know," Silas said sadly, running a tired hand over his face. "But the new human government doesn't see it that way. To them, the Warlords are just weapons. They are scared of what will happen if a machine raises a human boy."
