WINTER

By
Reece Ran

Winter / Ran

Chapter One
December 21, 2049
5:00pm

This wasnt Its A Wonderful Life or A Christmas Story or Jackie Frost and Her Ice
Brigade. This was winter, damn it, and it would kill us. The snow craved for a drink of our
blood, a taste of our flesh, and it waited in the calmness of the white wind.
I frowned as Bob, a lanky tattoo infested loser, wrestled his way into his coveralls. I let
out a long breath as my Cousin Jim and my twenty-year-old nephew Ron faced me, all dressed
up and ready to go. Ranger, Jims detection Husky, got in front of us.
Lets go, I said.
I stepped forward, took a deep breath, and entered the code for the garage door to open.
Ranger howled and a flash of white hit us. The cold wind raged like a mad mob onboard a
thunderous train, enraged at all who entered its presence. The sound of the snow seemed like a
monstrous growl, as if it was waiting for us to make a mistake. We all stepped outside and I
closed the garage door behind us. Ron wrapped his brace-filled mouth with a thick scarf, and Jim
put on an insulated hat that covered his head scar.
As we hiked through the enormous stretch of farmland my house sat on, the harsh
snowflakes hit our faces and coats, but our goggles protected our eyes. I was grateful for the
Nitro wear, but the snowflakes bit and gnawed at my coat, and little holes formed on my sleeves.
The snow tried to eat its way through to get to our skin. My heart beat like a jackhammer, which

Winter / Ran

meant my body heat rose, maybe too much for the Nitro technology to overcome. The other guys
murmured and gasped; I took a deep breath. Dont get too excited, Zim. Keep cool.
No. No, Ron said. I cant do it. I dont want to be out here.
I looked over at Ron as the snow assaulted us, striking over and over. It felt like
thousands of small little nails hitting us at once. Zim, let Ron go back inside, Jim said.
I shook my head. No, I cant keep opening and closing the door. Itll just freeze up on
us.
I heard that monstrous growl again, and Ron trembled in his boots. Im sorry, Ron, but
today youre going to have to handle this. Youre going to be a man and help me find my little
girl.
Lane, Im coming, baby.
Lets go, come on.
I reached into my pocket and pulled out Lanes shirt, then held it to Rangers nose again.
Ranger sniffed the shirt, then the air. He howled and plowed into the snow down our driveway. I
swallowed and hoped that maybe this meant Lane was alive, and her scent was fresh enough for
Ranger to pick up with ease. The cold air hit me with an iron fist.
I knew we were in winter now; I couldnt smell anything, taste anything, but
perseverance is a son of a bitch. We were in the lions den. Not only did we have to slog through
about a foot of snow, but the wind fought our every step. I could barely see anything, hear
anything. I didnt know if the coats werent going to last. Small cracks formed in the lenses of
my safety goggles, the same kind we all wore, bulletproof polycarbonate.
Uh, Zim, Bob said. My goggles are starting to crack.
Mine, too, Jim said.

Winter / Ran

Like I gave a damn about Bobs eyes, but I nodded. Lets be fast.
Soon enough, small white strains of snow crawled their way into my goggles. The pricks
tried to penetrate the heat coming from my exposed eyes. I purposely made my eyes tear up to
melt the little snow worms so they wouldnt eat at my pupils.
Try to make tears with your eyes to melt the snow, I said.
To my right, though, I could hear Rons emotions get the best of him, making way for the
snow worms to enter his eyes.
Ron shouted. Ahhh, my eyes. Help me, please.
Dont move, I said. Dont move. Stand still while I get you.
I charged toward Ron, but a large snowy tentacle sprung up and grabbed my leg. I slowed
down and calmed myself to keep my body heat from rising. I didnt want the snow to rip my
damn leg off. The arm seemed to sense that I calmed myself and retracted back into the snow. I
walked over to Ron as he held his eyes and screamed. Bob and Jim formed a wide circle around
us.
I put a hand on Rons arm to make sure the snow didnt get him. I already lost my sisterin-law. I wasnt going to lose anyone else. If anything, we were going to get back a member of
the family, my daughter.
Okay, Ron, listen to me, I said. A few snow tentacles formed and reached up his legs.
He cried. Good, his tears would take care of the snow worms attacking his eyes, but he was still
too wound up, and his body heat was no doubt through the roof.
Deep breaths, Ron, take deep breaths and look at me. Dont look at the snow. Just stay
calm, okay? Were here with you. Okay?

Winter / Ran

Ron nodded, then sniffled. I could see his body relax. A second later, the snow tentacles
retracted back into the ground, except for one, and that tentacle honed in on the two of us. It
moved toward us like some creature from a horror movie. I reached for my pistol-grip tactical
shotgun, but I couldnt fire it in time. Right before the snow tentacle came down at us, a flurry of
bullets blasted it apart. The snow tentacle broke apart and fell back into the snow. Bob and Jim
had fired the automatic rifles Id given them. Jim looked so calm standing there, like a true
former SEAL, and being a psychiatrist didnt hurt either.
Bob also looked calm. As far as I know, he didnt have any real training in this type of
weather. The gusting wind died down with the rifle fire. I spotted Ranger ahead of us. After the
wind ceased, the sky and field before us became a calm white wonderland, beautiful and
peaceful as it should be, but we were still standing in our greatest and deadliest enemy. Even as it
swirled in the air around us, the snow waited for us to make a mistake or a wrong move.
Come on, I said.
We all walked toward Ranger. Thats a good boy, Jim said. Bob stopped and shook his
head. Humph, garbage.
What?
The damn dog gets to trot along, and we got to walk on freaking egg shells.
I looked over at him. Bob, stop talking and keep moving.
He glared at me.
I said keep moving.
Look, I know youre pissed, okay? But Im not Lanes father. I wasnt the one who let
a six-year-old out the house.

Winter / Ran

I stopped dead in my tracks and gave him the deepest frown I could muster. No, youre
just a freaking murderer.
Bobs eyes widened. I told you. I didnt do that.
BullI never shouldve let you in my house, you bastard. I knew you were no good.
Okay, thats enough, Jim said. Everybody stay calm. Lets not get ourselves worked
up again.
I noticed the snow moved around our feet.
He didnt do it, Zim.
Then who did? Tell me, Jim. You said you were going to tell me when we got out here.
Now were out here.
Jim backed up and looked down at the pulsating snow. Calm down, Zim. Come on,
man.
I glanced down at the snow and took a deep breath. Jim was right. I was just going to get
us all killed if I kept going off. I relaxed and so did the snow.
Well? I said.
Zimmery, we need to focus on finding Lane, Jim said.
I looked at Jim, shook my head, then walked over to him, noticing that Ron and Jim
moved in close as well, but Bob hung back a bit. He was right, though; Lane was my top priority.
He knew that; thats why he said it. It was all the more reason why I didnt trust him.
I want you and Bob in my line of sight, I said.
Jim wiped his goggles. Zim, listen to what you just said to me. Youre treating me like
Im some
You need to do what I say, Jim. Youre pissing me off. I swear to God.

Winter / Ran

And you need to back off.

I moved in closer, faced to face with Jim. Then tell me the freaking truth, man. Tell me
what really happened up there.
No one said anything. I cut my eyes at Bob, then leaned in close to Jim.
What did he do to you?
What?
To make you lie? What? What?
I glanced over at Bob again, but he just stood there.
Jim touched my shoulder. Zim, come on, lets look for Lane so we can go back home,
okay?
I knocked his hand off me. Screw you. Its your fault were out here in the first place.
What? How is it my fault? First you said it was Bob, now me.
Its all of you. You, Bob, Ron, Daphne, all of you.
Are you freaking kidding me? Youre blaming your nephew and wife now?
This time, the snow trembled beneath us, and its heinous growl grew louder. I took
another deep breath and lowered my voice. Wait, wait, wait. Everyone calm down.
Really? Bob said in a low voice. Youre asking everybody to relax when youre the
one getting everybody heated up?
Ranger howled again, which brought me back to why we were out here. We braved the
snow to get my Lane back, and if she was still alive, I had to find her. I stepped out of Jims face
and went on my way toward the dog. We followed as Ranger sniffed and guided us to Lane. My
mind was a jumble of thoughtsabout Lane, the boys, Daphne, and I couldnt stop questioning

Winter / Ran

my trust of my own family members as we walked along this white field of danger and
emptiness.
Hey, Ron said, pointing at something. Whats that?
He mustve calmed down a little if he noticed something out of the ordinary. He shuffled
his boots around in the snow. I walked over to see what Ron was talking about. A gold chain lay
in the snow. I bent down and pulled the chain out of the snow to find that it was a necklace, but
not one that I recognized. Someone had lost this thing in the snow. Hmm, but how could it still
be near the surface when its been snowing so
Gimme that. Bob grabbed the necklace from my hand before I got a good look at it. I
let go of the chain and shrugged. I didnt care whose it was, but I wondered why Bob acted so
funny about it. Ehh, Bob said, it must have broken off or something.
With all that was on my mind, I now thought of something that was bugging me.
Bob, where did you learn how to defend yourself with a weapon like that? That was a
military-level response with how you handled that rifle.
Defense course.
Really? What course?
Just some guys in the military I hang out with here and there. They taught me how to
shoot a few years ago. To protect myself and Nan ... I practice at a local range when I can.
I frowned and walked in Rangers direction. Bob held his hands up. What? Its the
truth.
Just shut the hell up and lets go.
With that, my focus went right back to Lane. Shed never left my mind, but I had to
admit that it felt okay to think about something other than her missing out there in the snow

Winter / Ran

somewhere. My thoughts then drifted to memories of Lane, then back to my green-eyed Daphne,
then Bob, then my time in Africa, Lane missing, the dead body in my house, and on and on it
went as we plodded on through the snow for mile after mile.

Winter / Ran

Chapter Two
December 21, 2049
2:00pm

A few hours ago, things werent looking too good for me at all. My back was against the
wall, and I had nowhere to run. It was coming, and it couldnt be stopped. The six-year-old
monster, Lane, lured me into a trap. She stood in front of me with these carnivorous eyes,
stomping the floor with her hasty little feet. Her version of a scary growl was akin to a cute cub.
The game started after she woke up from a long nap. I gave her a plethora of kisses but
when she tried to give me one, I refused. She got frustrated and started to chase me around the
house.
The narrow hallway made me an easy target. If I didnt come up with a plan B, she was
going to complete her mission by planting a cluster of kisses on me. Im going to get you,
Daddy, Lane said.
I smiled and shook my head. No, you wont.
She grinned at me, then charged. I crouched and leaped over her, then ran to the other
side of the hallway where my bedroom was, laughing. When I turned around, I saw her get up,
scream, then run toward me. Before she could make it through my bedroom threshold, I closed
the door on her and snickered. Then I heard a loud boom on the other end, and Lane began to
cry. I opened the door and saw her on the ground, holding her nose.
Oh Lane, Im so sorry, baby, I said, sweeping my tiny angel off the floor. She wasnt
bleeding, but the nose on her light brown face looked like Rudolphs. As she moaned and

Winter / Ran

10

groaned, I kissed her repeatedly until she calmed down, then took her to the kitchen and grabbed
a small cup of ice cream for her to eat. Once she gobbled it down, I kissed her on the nose.
Okay, sweetie, time for another nap, I said.
I laid her on my bed, pulled the covers over her, then sang Lane our song. I love you.
You know its true. Daddy loves Lane, very, very, muchvery, very, much.
She repeated a few of the words before she closed her eyes. I rubbed the side of her face
and headed for the door. Daddy? she whispered.
I returned to her and whispered back, Yes, baby?
She rose and kissed me on the cheek. Got you.
She giggled, then dropped her head back into the pillow. What could I say? Yeah, baby.
You sure did.

I remembered looking out my living room window, watching the snowflakes pour. Sweat
rolled down my nose as I glanced at my watch. Come on. Hurry up, you guys, I said.
Daddy, my daughter Lane said.
I turned and saw her come down the stairs. She wiped her eyes and ran her chunky little
hands through her short brown hair.
Hey, baby, I said. How was your nap? You sleep good?
Lane caught sight of the snow outside, exploded with excitement, and ran to the window.
Oh, Oh, Daddy, Daddy, can we go play in the snow now?
No, baby we cant. I told you that.

Winter / Ran

11

Her face dropped, then she walked away. I felt so sorry for her, if she could only
understand why we could never do that. Maybe her not understanding is a good thing. I glanced
back at my watch. Come on. Where you guys at?
Daddy?
Yes, baby?
Where is stepmama? And Zach and Micky?
I sighed. Zach and Micky are coming sweetie. And stepmama is
The door rang. Step back sweetie, I told Lane as I rushed toward it. I opened the door
and Bob stormed in with feet covered in snow.
Hey, hey, hey. Dont bring that snow in here, I said.
Man, Zim, relax, Bob said. He took off his skull cap, pulled out a flask, and tossed his
head back for a swig. Its only few inches on the ground.
Nancy, his girlfriend and my sister-in-law, came behind him. She had a mark on her head
that only came from his palm. I leaned over and whispered into her ear, Are you alright?
Yeah, she said. Why do you ask?
She covered the mark with her blonde hair. I watched him take off his coat, then stare at
me. He grabbed Nancys hand and pulled her into the kitchen.
Next, Jim, Ron, and Ranger entered. Hey, Zim, Jim said. He then nodded at my head.
Youre getting a little grey in the crane, arent ya, buddy. He dropped his luggage, adjusted his
glasses, and gave me a big bear hug. At least youre still fit at as a bull, but I can tell youve lost
some muscle.
At this point, I had to play it cool. Thats called getting old, I said, and you were
cutting it kind of close. Got stuck in traffic or were you just getting off your period?

Winter / Ran

12

Screw you.
I helped him take his coat off as we both laughed. After I tossed it back at him, he shook
his head, grinning, then nodded toward the kitchen. You know how those two are, Jim said.
I closed the door and hit him in the shoulder. I know how you are, a slow driver.
Ha. Jim handed Ron his bags and plopped down on the seat. Ranger walked over to
Lane and licked her little fingers, making Lane jump and laugh. She stroked his wide ears.
I plunged into the lift chair, leaned back, and let my feet up. So, you mean to tell me
each and every last one of you crooks didnt get approved for the HAR insurance?
Jim rolled his eyes. Please dont bring that up. I applied for that thing ages ago. And
then like, oh I dont know, two days before they issued the shutdown, they sent me a last minute
email saying I was denied.
I tossed my head back and chuckled. Wow, and you didnt reply with your usual rant?
Hell I He glanced over at Lane. I mean ... I wanted to. But then the shutdown
came.
Ah, they turned the power off on you.
Jim threw his arms out, then looked around the room. Hey, Zim, wheres the rest of the
gang?
Uhm, Daphne is at her moms, and the boys are stuck at the grocery store.
Jim stared at me for what seemed like hours.
Its a long story. But I got a hold of them before the shutdown. Theyre okay.
Jim pursed his lips and went to the kitchen. As he was going in, Bob came out, and
Nancy was right on his heels. Hmph, he said, if that was my family, they would be here with
me. Thats what a good husband, a good soldier, does. I frowned as he and Nancy went up the

Winter / Ran

13

stairs. My eye twitched and my fist clinched. Nancy, scream if you need anything. Bob closed
the door.
I grunted as I watched the door, waiting for a reason to barge in. Jim walked over and
stood by me with a Coke in his hand. He took small sips from it, but didnt say anything. I knew
what he was trying to do. I looked at him, and he eyed me from his peripheral vision.
I sighed. Come on.
He nodded and smiled.
Ron, watch Lane for me, will you?
Ron nodded on the sofa, playing on his phone while Lane chased Ranger around the
room, laughing like a little hyena.
Jim and I went to the old rusty attic where I stowed all my gear. I even took a long gander
at my old speed skis. High velocity arctic ski training was required in the armed forces. A soldier
might get deployed to an area of the world where the snow hills were abundant, but it wasnt too
much of that around here. I cracked open a footlocker, then my gun safe. I grabbed an M16A9
assault rifle from the safe, and when Jim hefted my .56-caliber rifle, his eyes sparked. Oh,
nice.
You like that, huh? I said.
I havent seen this baby since my SEAL days.
Carl gave me this before he went to East Point.
East Point? Werent we all there?
Oh, yeah, that was in 2044, right?
Jim nodded. Yeah, yeah, Carl and I had that mission in the Bermuda Triangle.
Right, right. That shit was nothing compared to those old timer stories from WWX.

Winter / Ran

14

Oh yeah, yeah, yeah that was something else entirely. Right after that war, the ... Jim
looked out the attic window and observed the falling snowflakes. He shook his head and
chuckled. The snow showed the world what it was really capable of, didnt it?
A long pause overcame us, as if we were stuck in time. I sighed and rubbed my eyes.
Well, that just got depressing. I opened the attic window and aimed my rifle at the snow. Im
way too nice you know.
What?
I shouldnt have let Bob stay with us, shouldve just told him to go screw a chicken or
something. That freaking Bob Robert, nothing more than a bumand a redneck bum, to say the
least.
Jim sipped on his drink and nodded. Hey, Nancy loves that shit, I guess.
Its a ten year difference, you know. Hes a thirty-year-old loser messing with some
twenty-year-old deer in the head lights. Daphne and I tried to talk to her, but she wont listen.
I shot some rounds into the snow, then readjusted my scope. Hmph, dude doesnt have a
job, and hadnt for a while.
Well, he was in construction.
Phzz, and got fired, moved in with Nancy, and had been living off her for the longest
timetrue white trailer trash. I emptied my clip and reloaded. How many times he went to
prison?
Jim shrugged and crushed his can.
Daphne and I never could understand why Nancy loved this man, this nobody.
I went back to the window and resumed fire. After I emptied my second clip, I took a
deep breath and smiled from ear to ear. With every shot, I got more excited and kept unloading

Winter / Ran

15

round after round. I imagined I was back in Africa, shooting Joseph Kions militiamen in war
torn Somalia, but then anger churned in my gut when the militiamen turned into Kion, then Bob,
then my quick-tempered dad. I wanted nothing more than to cut them all to ribbons, but an image
of a beautiful brunette flickered in front of meDaphne.
Id emptied the clip, but held the trigger as I aimed the barrel out the window. Jim laid his
hand on my shoulder. I pulled my finger off the trigger and looked at him then let out a breath I
didnt know I was holding. I shoved the rifle into the safe and did the same with the .56-cal;
locked it up and headed for the door.
Zim, Jim said, whats up?
Nonothing.
Jim gave me a blank stare. Youve been taking your meds?
Youre my personal doctor now?
Come on, man. Whats troubling you? Tell me.
How do you know if anything is troubling me?
Well, I am a therapist.
Hmph.
The way you look. Its that same look you always had when Daphne was acting funny.
I glared at him. Did you and Daphne talk when I was away in Somalia?
He shook his head. No, but I knew what the deal was with you two.
I lifted my head and sighed. I never liked mind games. It was nothing but mind games in
the Somalia POW camp, and when I was rescued, I had to go back to base for a psychiatric
evaluation.
I just want to help if I can, Jim said. He put his hand on my shoulder again.

Winter / Ran

16

All the pressure building inside of me deflated. I know, man. I know, and Im sorry.
Jim rubbed my shoulder. So why did Daphne go to her moms?
I sighed. You already know the routine; its the same reason as last time. Only this time,
I dont know, Jim. I screwed up, and I screwed up good.
I figured as much.
You figured?
You can screw up a good cup of coffee. All beans but no water.
I grinned and shook my head.
I can see why youre so pissed at Bob. Hell, I am too, but he knows better, now that hes
here. Look, I know you and Daphne too well to know youre not going to split up. Ill put my
kids life on that.
I smiled and nodded. Jim always impressed me on how he could just figure stuff out.
That was one reason why I liked him. It often saved me the embarrassment of having to tell him
myself. More than that, though, Jim was a good friend. Maybe thats why his patients kept
coming back to him. Or he just became a better therapist after he had that year-old brain tumor
removed. I shouldve teased him about that. He didnt like bringing that part of his life up.
Hey, I didnt know you had one of these, Jim said.
I looked over and saw him admire our gas freezer. In addition to keeping everything
super cold, the beauty of the gas freezer was that it wouldnt ice up. Yep, the latest model, I
said.
Better than what I got.
Well, duh.
Heh, can I take a peek?

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17

Sure.
Jim reached into the freezer and pulled out an old dead rabbit sealed in a plastic bag. I
kept the rabbit in there because I used it for target practice sometimes.
Here, Jim said. He pulled the rabbit out of the bag and held it up. I nodded and got my
M16 back out. Jim threw the rabbit out of the window and I opened fire. The rabbit carcass tore
into dozens of pieces midair and fell into the snow.
I let out a long breath. I guess this was some kind of free therapy, right?
He laughed a little. No, its a family discount.
I chuckled a bit.
I told you to put my shit by the wall, dammit, Bob shouted from the other room. Jim
and I paused and listened to the commotion downstairs.
If you forgot my necklace, I swear to God Ill
Bob, Nancy said. I dont know where it is.
Just keep looking, and dont raise your voice at me.
Jim sighed. Ill go handle it. He gave a little wave, walked out, and went back
downstairs. It got real quiet down there. Jim mustve entered Bob and Nancys room. I got ready
to head down, too, but then I went over to shut the freezer and spotted another dead rabbit. After
grabbing an old injection needle, I pumped the carcass full of hot water and some old human
blood I ordered offline. The blood was used for defensive practices against the snow.
I took it to the window. It was better to shoot something with some heat in its body rather
than a cold, hard carcass that just broke into pieces when the bullets hit itplus, the snow
wouldnt just let it lie there.

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18

I threw the rabbit outside, high into the air as I could get it. I raised the rifle and fired a
few times, but the bullet just nicked it across the back. The rabbit plummeted into the snow. I
waited, knowing what would happen with a warm body full of human blood. With no hesitation,
the snow sprung up in giant white tentacles, grabbed the rabbit, and devoured it. Like some old
horror flick, the tentacles wiggled like worms, each ridged with icy fangs along its entire length.
The tentacles dragged the rabbit down and out of sight, and I could soon hear the bones of the
rabbit crack and pop beneath the surface of the snow. Just like that, the rabbit was gone.
I stared at the snow for a few minutes and thought about my boys and Daphne
especially our boys, given the tension that remained with my wife. Zach and Micky were out
there in a store with God knows who; I never should have let them leave. Damn federal
shutdown. Did they have to drop all the phone signals?
I shook my head and grabbed two more rabbits, pumped them with the usual juices, and
went back to the window. Global warming and ozone depletion, my ass; you were just waiting
for the right time to do us in. Werent you?
I tossed one carcass outside and it landed in a mound of snow. The snow mound created a
sinkhole for the carcass to drop into, and the drift closed over the icy tomb of the rabbit. I could
see the snow pulsate, roil, pump, and throb like a vortex with a heartbeat.
I frowned and watched as it devoured the flesh, crunching the rabbit bones like a meat
grinder, then sucking the fluids out as a spider does with a trapped fly. Maybe we should all do
this. Hang from our attics and toss warm dead food to you, huh? Its better than you killing
millions each season, better than killing my mom and Carl. I launched the other spoiled game
high into the air. You big white piece of sh

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19

A large snow tentacle reached up and grabbed the rabbit before it hit the surface. I
jumped back a little and slammed the window shut. God.
Soon after, loud noises came from Bob and Nancys room. I stopped and listened to what
was being said through the walls. Stop, stay away, Nancy said.
Hey, hey, wait. Think about this, a faint voice said.
What the hell was going over?
Gunshots banged against the walls.
Jesus!
Each time I heard the booms, my body jerked. I ran down the stairs and saw blood spatter
on my hallway wall. Inside Nancys room, Bob and Jim stood with their eyes wide and mouths
hung open. I glanced over to see what they were looking at. It was Nancy, shot in the chest, one,
two, three times, with a fourth bullet in the wall. The gun was on the floor next to her.
What happened? I asked.
Neither of them answered.
What happened, dammit?
Once more, not a single word was uttered.
My gut tightened, and my rage built, even as the confusion and nausea fought within. I
didnt like it when people didnt answer my questions, and this was a big question I wanted
answered. I looked at them again, and both looked scared out of their minds. I focused on Bob,
and he, too, had the same look of fear, but it hit me. Hes faking it. He did it.
I rushed over to Bob and knocked him on the floor. He didnt even try to defend himself.
No, stop, Jim said. He tried to pull me off of Bob. He didnt do it, Zim. He didnt do
it.

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20

I pushed him off me. Well, who did?

Both stared at me, not saying a word. Bob got up and eyed me, but didnt look mad. Both
then looked at each other as though they were hiding something. In an instant, my mind veered
off to what my daughter was doing. Lane? I rushed downstairs to check up on her. She wasnt
with Ranger or Ron. Ron was on his feet, horrified. Ron, wheres Lane? I asked. Ron didnt
move an inch.
Ron, where is she?
Uh, II dont know?
My eyes widen. Lane?
Jim came downstairs as I sprinted around the house trying to find my little girl. He, too,
ran around the house with Ranger right on his tail. Ron, come on and help us, Jim said. Ron
nodded and searched around the house with us. What happened upstairs? he asked.
Ill explain later.
I searched through the kitchen, the cabinets her little body could fit into, the closets.
Lane, Lane. Honey, where are you?
I didnt see her anywhere. Maybe she was hiding? So many things were wrong here. I
didnt know what to make of it. My wife left me; my son was stranded at the store. Nancy was
dead, and the only two who knew how and why wont say a damn word. Lane was missing in the
middle of all of this mess. I raised my voice as loud as I could. Lane!
The three of us regrouped back in the living room. Shes nowhere, Jim said. Shes not
in the basement, not upstairs in the other rooms.
Ron, where was the last place you saw her? I asked. Rons faced turned pale. He
stuttered over his words, making them worthless to listen to.

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21

Maybe she went outside, Bob said bumbling down the steps.
What you say?
Ma ... maybe she went ... outside. You know, to go play ... play in ... the snow.
Dont you freaking move. Dont come any closer.
Bob face was a sweating fountain. Jim stood in front of me.
Zim, maybe hes right. Maybe ... Jims eyes averted to the door. Maybe she
You think Im stupid? I said. You think Im that careless.
I didnt say that. I said
Once the doors are locked for the winter, theres no way out. You know every building
in a lockdown area is put into automatic pressure lock. No one can get in, and no one can get out.
Not without the code that only the homeowners have, and the only person in this freaking house
with the code is me.
IIm saying if
I pushed Jim out the way and grabbed Bob by the collar. What the hell did you do?
Whawhat?
Answer me, dammit!
Bobs head bobbled and his mouth mumbled nonsense. I pushed Bob away, and he fell
against the steps. Why isnt anyone telling me anything? Dammit, Ron. I told you to watch her.
What the hell is going on in here?
Jim held up his hand. Zim, please, calm down.
Dont you freaking tell me to calm down. Tell me whats going on. Where is Lane?
What the hell happened to Nancy?

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22

Jim remanded silent. I glared at him and ran back into Lanes room, hoping to find some
kind of clue. I tossed her covers and flipped through her Red Bear toys until I spotted something.
Her keys.
I picked them up from under her pillows. I had given Lane those keys for when she
would come up to visit in the summertime. I thought I had taken them back when she went back
down to Mexico, but her keys couldnt have opened any of the doors during winter. I opened her
closet and exhaled with relief. Thank God, she put on the Nitro snowsuit. I didnt see her
strider boots in her closet either. She mustve put them on to help keep her from sinking into the
snow.
It just didnt make any sense. Nothing added up. I was so confused. I didnt know what to
do, so I went into Marine mode, grabbed one of the shirts Id seen her wearing in the last couple
days, playing a gamble. I went back downstairs to the living room, where everyone was still
gathered.
What are you doing with that? Jim asked.
I said nothing and just went to Ranger and held Lanes shirt to its nose, hoping it could
get her scent, then track her down. Ranger looked at me with eyes that seemed to tell me he
knew exactly what I wanted him to do. He sniffed the shirt and put his nose to the floor to sniff
around the house. He soon went into the garage and headed right to the side door that led outside.
Ranger howled. I shook my head and closed my eyes. Nothing lay beyond the door except the
death that awaited outside.
So its true. My little Lane was out there all alone in the snow. How? Screw it, questions
for later.
I ran to my closet and got my heavy Nitro winter gear.

Winter / Ran

23

What are you doing, Zim? Jim asked.

Im going to get my daughter back, I said. Shes out there somewhere.
What? Wait, wait. Zim. Theres no way shes out there. Like you said, she couldnt even
have gotten outside.
I zipped my full-body coveralls and looked at him. Then where is she? Where? Tell me
where and well go there to find her. Where in this house, Jim? Where?
I dont. I dont know, but if shes out there, then, well, you know, um, I dont know why
you need to go
I stared at him, daring him to come right out and say that if Lane was out there, she was
already dead. I rubbed the dogs head, pulled on a knit cap, and flipped up the hood of the Nitro
clothing. Jim followed me around as I got prepped. Wait, Zim. You cant just go alone.
I didnt respond.
Jim sighed. You cant go out there in the snow. You wont survive out there; you know
that. The snow will get you before you even take two steps outside.
I turned and looked at him. Its not often you come to visit us, so you obviously dont
know me very well to say that.
I ran back upstairs, closed the door where Nancy was, and turned down the rooms
thermostatfederal procedure for dead bodies in the winter. I hurried into the attic to get some
weaponry to defend myself in the cold. Over the top of my coveralls, I strapped on my ammo
belt and my favorite pistol. I reasoned that a single bullet would do nothing more than just pass
through the snow if it rose up to attack me, so I also grabbed an assault shotgun with a full-length
barrel, plus a short-barreled tactical shotgun with a pistol grip. I loaded myself with as many

Winter / Ran

24

shells as I could carry, but heard the steps creek. I finished loading my gear and marched toward
the door.
Zim, Jim said. Dont
I met him on the steps and he looked at me, but didnt say anything. I went to the garage
to finish getting ready to go out. After Id grabbed a survival pack, complete with food and
water, Jim came into the kitchen and into the garage, loaded with some of my winter gear and
weaponry from the attic.
What are you doing? I asked him.
What does it look like? Im going with you whether you like it or not.
I beg to differ.
I fast-drew my pistol and pointed it at him. Jims eyes went wide; he backed up and
slowly raised his hands. Zim, have you lost your mind?
I nodded. Yeah, its a pretty crazy day.
Youve been taking your meds?
Dammit, Jim, dont jerk me off.
Okay, okay, Zim, okay.
Ron stepped back in horror. Behind Jim, Bob gave a little shake of his head.
Jim sighed. Ill tell you what happened to Nancy after we leave the house to look for
Lane.
I didnt trust himhell, I didnt trust anyone right now. On top of that, my combat senses
from the war kicked back in. Deep down, I knew Jim would never turn on me, but in a tense
situation like this, I just couldnt be sure. Besides, I had the upper hand anyway with my multiple
weapons and battle experience.

Winter / Ran

25

Okay, fine, I said, but Ron and Bob are coming with us, too.
Jim closed his eyes. Bob looked like some giant owl with his eyes opened so wide.
What? Oh hell no. Im not going out there.
Oh, youre going, I said.
Zim, are you kidding?
I shook my head. Im not laughing, Robert.
But I, uh, I got asthma,
Bull. I dont care if you have only one lung to breathe with, youre coming with us.
I pointed my pistol at him. After all, its better to have one full lung than one with a
bunch of holes in it, right?
Bob sighed then nodded. Alright, alright, just stop pointing that thing at me, damn.
After holstering my pistol, I went into the living room where Ron was.
Ron, I said, suit up, son. Youre coming with us.
But, Ron titled his head to get Jims attention.
Zim, come on, Jim said. He
I cut him off with a raised hand. Hes old enough and close enough to a mans age to
find his little cousin.
Zim, look, we
I put my finger in Jims face. Look, I took you guys in. Now you freaking brought this
shit into my house. Nancys dead, and nobody is saying anything about that. My daughter is
gone and no one is saying anything about that either. None of you are staying in this house. Now
all of you get your shit and come on.

Winter / Ran

26

In the garage, Jim and Ron had on Nitro coveralls just like mine, including pull-over ski
masks, hoods that had built-in infrared goggles, a watch on the right sleeve, and an ice pick
attached to a small holster on the left. Bob had on what I called the guest pair of coveralls,
which were really just a basic pair we kept in case someone needed them, but this pair had none
of the extra features of the others. Hurry up, Bob.
Bob got dressed; I kept my eyes on him, and he did the same with me, but I didnt care.
This was no joke, and I wasnt going to trust anyone. I looked at Ron. He tried to be a man and
hold in his tears. Tensions ran high among us. I figured I was the most wounded. My thoughts
were all jumbled up, trying to make sense of everything.
Nancy, what the hell? My money was on Bob, all the way. He drank and did drugs, but I
couldnt prove it, and any potential witnesses werent willing to help me; and my poor Lane, my
precious Lane was out there in that nightmarish winter, all happy and excited to play in the snow,
the way a little kid used to feel in the old days. Thats how it should be. Thats how it should be.
Yes, thats how it should be. I looked ahead, and the grey walls around me turned white. The
shelves with my tools on top turned white. The family photos on the wall, the lights, the garage
door, all turned white. My home faded into nothing but crystal white. I was back, back in the
present, back in the endless desert of white sand, yet, I didnt have a scratch on me.

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Chapter Three
December 21, 2049
7:00pm

Ranger kept moving, and stopped only to check for Lanes scent. It seemed like wed
followed him for days. I checked my watch. No way. Wed followed the dog for around two
hours. It was funny how that worked. As soon as I realized how long wed been walking, I
started to feel fatigue. The white, dead environment was getting to me; it was getting to all of us.
We walked on adrenaline for the majority of the search, and now we were hitting the wall.
Ranger stopped, howled, and dug into the snow. He mustve spotted something. I jogged and
stood over him to see what it was, but a part of me hoped it wasnt what I thought it might be.
Please, God, dont let my Lane be down there.
Ranger dug, and my eyes got wider and wider. My heart thrashed against my chest, but I
took a few deep breaths, trying to keep my composure as I saw the snow around me roil. A few
seconds later, I saw something under the snow where Ranger dug. It looked like a boot. Like
Lanes boot.
Oh no.
Alongside the boot sat a red teddy bear, the one I bought for Lane last year. I fell to my
knees, not caring at that moment what the snow did to me, and the snow did form up in little
mounds around us, ready to attack.
Oh Lord, Jim said. Zim, are those Lanes?

Winter / Ran

28

I grabbed the teddy bear, nodded once, and hugged the bear like it was my little girl
herself in my arms. Jim turned away and glanced to the side. Ron looked as if he was about to
explode with tears. Bob must have stood behind me; I didnt care where he was anyway.
No no no.
The snow formed tentacles again.
Zim, everyone, Jim said. Take a deep breath and calm down. Just take it easy. Thats
it. Calm. Were no good to anyone if we cant keep a cool head now.
He was right, of course, and he helped me refocus and look at the facts. These items
seemed to say that my little girl was gone, and the snow mustve gotten her, but why just one
boot? Why was only one here? Maybe she was still alive. Maybe Lane didnt put it on tight
enough? Maybe some snow got into it? But none of that made sense.
No, it was over. I unzipped my coat, stuffed the bear inside, then zipped back up before
more body heat could escape.
Im so sorry, Jim said, laying a hand on my shoulder. We sh He stifled a sob. We
need to head back to the house.
I nodded and stood, but Ranger howled and dug some more. I looked into the pit that
Ranger excavated and saw a pair of gloves, a hat, two pairs of goggles and two coats.
Huh?
None of these items were Lanes, just the boot and the bear.
Where did all this stuff come from? Jim asked. Not Lanes, right?
I shook my head. Right after, the sound of a powerful crack in the distance caught our
attention.
What the hell was that? Bob asked.

Winter / Ran

29

I stood and blinked. Dont have anyWait. Listen.

A whooshing sound echoed across the air, like something was flying toward us. It got
louder, but I couldnt see anything through all the snow that was coming down. Look out, Ron
said. A giant net appeared amidst the falling snow and landed right on the entire group of us,
even the dog. It knocked us to the ground, and its weight pressed down on me. I turned and
grabbed at the net, but it barely gave at all. It was made out of some kind of metal alloy.
Ron and Bob squirmed inside the net. Oh, man. Lemme out of here, Ron said.
I felt the snow move around us. Quiet, I said. Relax, okay?
Bob and Ron were too wired up. Only Jim, Rangeryes, the damn dogand I kept
cool. We scooted our way to the edge of the net, but it held fast in the snow thanks to some kind
of weights that held tight to the ground.
God, no, Bob said.
Ron, meanwhile, sobbed.
Shhh, guys, Jim said.
The snow, though, attacked Bob and Ron with small tentacles, causing them to yell at the
top of their lungs. I could only imagine the horrible end before us; we were all going to die out
here.
Next thing I knew, a few bullets rammed into the snow tentacles, breaking them apart. At
the sound of the shots, Ron and Bob quit crying and pulled themselves together. We sat there for
a few moments until a group of men emerged from the swirling snow.
Look, Ron said. Who in the world
Shhh, I said.

Winter / Ran

30

I squinted to see the individuals who circled the net. More than thirty easy, every one of
them wore the same kind of protective gear we had, but theirs looked more advanced. Each
carried automatic weapons and pointed them in our direction as they looked at us. One of the
men gave a loud whistle, and several of his comrades ran toward us and cut the net.
The man who whistled walked up to me. What are you all doing out here?
I eyed the man, keeping my finger on the trigger of my tactical shotgun. Through his
goggles, I saw eyes that appeared to be of Asian origin.
Were searching for someone, I said.
Really? Well, were looking for someone, too, the man stuck out his hand. The
names Akin.
I nodded and shook his hand. Zimmery or just Zim. So whats with the net?
Couldnt be too careful, he said, but offered nothing more. Oh, this is Chris, Russell,
and Devena. He gestured to the three closest to him. Were kind of the unofficial leaders of our
search party.
I shook each of their hands. This is Jim, Bob, and Ron. Oh, and the dogs Ranger.
Chris and Russell looked like they were white from what I could tell. The former was a
medium built fella, hair, charcoal black. Russell had a thick brown mustache. Devena was a
black woman with brown eyes and slightly thin lipskind of cute, too.
Anyway, were looking for some children who went missing, Akin said. Chris,
Devena, and Russell here are the parents of the missing kids.
It was a bit odd they were also looking for missing children.
We set up a point of return in some nearby woods across the snow field, Akin said.
Youre invited to come with us.

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31

Before I could answer, Russell stepped forward and pointed at everything wed found in
the snow. Wait, whats all this? he asked with a light Cajun accent.
The dog found all this stuff in the snow, buried deep, Jim said.
The four of them crouched and looked at each of the items. I already took Lanes boot
and bear. Devena reached down and picked up the gloves. Oh my Lord, she said. These
gloves are Pams. And this coat, too.
Akin nodded and looked at me. Pams her daughter.
And I gave this hat to Johnny a few years ago, Chris said.
Russell picked up the two pairs of goggles and the coats. These are Alexis and Alexs.
Akin turned toward me and whispered, His twin stepson and stepdaughter.
I only nodded, knowing the kind of pain the parents had to be going through.
Who are you looking for? Akin asked.
I showed him the boot. My daughter Lane.
Bob leaned over to me and whispered, Well, at least youre not the only free-spirited
parent out here.
I didnt like that remark at all, but heavier concerns weighed on my mind at the moment.
Like, how did four of us fathers lose our children out here at the same time? How did all of the
kids stuff get placed in the same spot?
Ranger, meanwhile, dug even deeper into the snow and soon found one last thing. He
lifted it out of the hole with his teeth and turned toward me. I reached down to take it from him
amidst the blowing snow, but I saw what it was and my hand stopped.
Damn, Devena said.

Winter / Ran

32

In his jaws, Ranger held a plastic figurine of a pink snowman. The words prove yourself
were written on it in blood.
We all knew what it was. We heard the stories, the news bits, the hundreds of missing
children and the grieving families who later found their dead bodies after the weather cleared.
The monster was here in Scranton, our home. The infamous serial killer had come to our neck of
the woods this season, the vicious predator, the Snowoman.
Even as my blood pulsed with rage, my heart jerked with fright, but it didnt matter. The
rage conquered my fears. This time the sadistic Snowoman had picked the wrong family to screw
with.

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33

Chapter Four
December 21, 2049
8:30pm

Before he died, my brother Carl and I watched a documentary about some of the most
notorious serial killers who ever walked Gods good earth. He asked who I thought was worst,
Charles Manson, Dr. Death, Ted Bundy, the Zodiac, the Phoenix, or the Grudge. I couldnt
answer that question at the time, but now, the answer is too easy.
After some discussion with Akin, we decided to head to the base hed set up nearby, as it
was a lot closer than hiking back to my house. After we arrived and started a fire, we talked
about how our children wandered off.
Russell shook his head and sighed. Alexis and Alex went outside to get some wood from
the back of the house. We bring in firewood every winter, so I figured it wouldnt be an issue.
The kids are twelve years old, and they both had on Nitro wear, so I argued with my wife that
they were old enough. He looked down at the ground. Oh man, Im gonna hear it from her.
A few of the guys around the fire grunted, then Devena cleared her throat. Well, Pam
was staying with her cousins not far from here, and she was supposed to come back home before
the big snow hit. I never heard from her cousins even though I kept trying to get in touch with
them. Then the snowstorm came early, so I couldnt communicate anymore to see what had
happened.
Chris massaged his temples. Johnnys thirteen; he was supposed to be flying back to the
Bahamas for the winter to continue his education. Since all schools close during the winter, we
like to have him keep up his studies during that time. He was supposed to be on one of the last

Winter / Ran

34

flights out, but I know he didnt make it. I was on the phone with him when the signal went
dead.
Once Chris said that he flew his son to the Bahamas to continue school, I knew right then
what kind of person he was, especially when I took another look at Akin and the other men
around him. To afford to send your kid to the Bahamas for school every winter and hire a squad
of men with a commander leading a rescue party for your children, Chris had to be part of the
rare class known as the super-rich. Akin and his men mustve been hired guns or mercenaries.
After a few moments of silence, I asked, How did you manage to trace the children to
the exact spot where the Snowoman placed their clothes?
Devena pulled out a small tablet. I have a GPS in the Nitro coat I gave Pam.
Jim waved his finger at the men. And you guys all know each other, then?
Well, Chris and I know each other, Russell said, pointing at Chris. And our kids
well, I mean, my stepkids and his son play together, so yeah.
Well. Chris raised his hand. We dont know each other that personally, but our kids do
hang out together. And Devena here is an employee of mine who doesnt live too far away. And
if you havent already guessed, I hired Akin and his team to find my son and their children as
well.
Russell cleared his throat and nodded at us. What about you guys? How did your kid get
out here? And how did you find this spot?
I nodded toward Ranger. The dog led us here. And my little girl, she was, uh, let out by
someone in my house.
How does that happen?

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35

I didnt respond, but I wondered the same thing, especially since the other guys were
trying to hide something from me.
The freaking Snowoman, I muttered. What are the odds?
Ranger kept sniffing around and howled again.
It appears that your dog is trying to tell us something, Devena said.
Ranger howled toward the north. He seemed to be acting on the scent of the different
clothes.
His sniffing could lead us to the Snowoman, Chris said.
Do we really want to find her? Russell asked. Cant believe its actually a her.
Devena frowned, then shrugged. And? Who gives a damn if its a she? Shes got my
child.
Good point.
Well, I dont give a damn if its a man, woman, or Martian, I said. I do want to find
her. I hoped Rangers howl implied the children were indeed alive. But most of all, I want to
find my kid.
Chris leaned against a tree trunk and sighed. God, I hope theyre okay, He lowered his
head and covered his face as he sobbed. My boy ... my boy is out there with that maniac bit
Chris began to breathe heavily. His eyes went red, and his fist entered the bark of the tree
he leaned on. My eyes, along with everyone elses, grew. Akin ran over to Chris as he panted,
moaned, and reached for air over and over again.
Akin reached into Chriss side pocket and pulled out a small case of pills. Akin inserted
the pills into Chriss mouth and his breathing slowed. After a shake of the head and nod of the

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36

chin, he turned to us and bowed his head. Excuse me. I have a condition. Whenwhen I get
real anxious, I ... I ...
Chris fell to his knees crying, but Devena pulled him back up. Hey, boss, she said, I
know how you feel. I feel the same about my girl being out here, too. But losing it here aint
gonna get them back.
Chris nodded and calmed down, and I felt good about that, because the snow started to
move around us.
Russell got up and paced around the fire. What in the world is Janet to going say when
she finds out about this? Damn it.
Its a good chance that the children are still alive, Jim said. The Snowoman always
cuts off the limbs first to get her sick mental fantasies started. We only found the clothes and
stuff, and we havent found any body parts yet or any sign of a struggle.
What about that whole prove yourself thing on the snowman figurine? Whats that all
about?
Hmm, dont know. The Snowoman hasnt done anything like that before. Must be a new
game shes playing.
Bob snorted and walked over to us. Whatever. The snow itself could have killed the
children and the Snowoman. Why are we even wasting our time out here?
Devena grabbed Bob and pinned him against a tree. Damn. Were out here because of
my girl and the other missing kids, asshole!
No, were out here because of somebodys stupidity. And that led us out here to find a
bunch of kids who might be already dead.
You bastard, I said.

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37

Devena held Bob tight against the tree trunk; I raised my shotgun and stuck the muzzle
against Bobs head, ready to put him out of his misery. Youve got no right, you Akin and
two of his men stepped up to surround the three of us. Get them off me, Bob said.
Calm down, one of the men said.
I ignored him. You little prick. Youve got no right to talk about someone being dead.
You
One of Akins men tasered all three of us, and we fell to the ground, writhing.
Now calm down, dammit, Taser-man said.
The snow rose, grabbed Taser-mans lower half, and pulled him under. Several of Akins
men ran toward him, but the mans head went under. Even as his screams died beneath the white
death, the snow around us came alive. Our heated argument caught up with us. The whiteness
rose in tentacles, some with pointed ends of hard-packed snow. Ranger howled and ran up a
small hill. Everyone, be calm, Akin said. It was too late. The snow sucked some of the men
under, and others shouted as the snow impaled them on the pointed ends of its tentacles. Get to
higher ground now, Akin said.
Bob ran up a rocky hill the wind had cleared of snow, and Akin and I soon followed. A
few seconds later, Devena joined us. I didnt see where Jim got to in all the commotion and
swirling snow. Ron, though, looked frantic, and he tried to run toward the rocky hill.
Ron, I said. Just calm down and head this way.
Ron fell into the snow. No. Oh God no, he said.
I started down the hill, but as I saw Ron flail around and scream, I knew I couldnt reach
him in time. The snow made an arm, latched onto Rons head, and engulfed it.
Rooon! I said.

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38

The giant snow arm twirled Rons body like a rag doll, back and forth, back and forth. I
reached the bottom of the hill and prepared to plow into the snow to save him, but Devena
grabbed me by the arm. No, dont.
Lemme go.
I tried my best to free myself from her strong grip, but couldnt. For a chick, she had
some strength. The snow around Ron opened up like a pit with teeth resembling icicles.
Oh my God, no, I said.
The snow pulled Rons body under, and his fingers dragged through snow, leaving
leftover blood for it to drink. I fell on the hilly slope, feeling the hard rock on my knees. I stayed
there for a while, staring out at the snow as it worked on the men it pulled under. Akin gathered
all of us together, and we climbed into some nearby trees. I didnt see Ranger anywhere, but I
figured he was safe since the snow wouldnt attack him.

With all the gray snow clouds, it got dark real quick. The clouds, though, soon gave way,
and the moon shined in the sky like a blue beacon of light. The trees were calm as the night sky,
but the snow wasnt quiet. We could hear it rend and consume the flesh of the men it had taken
under its vast and deep white fields. We even heard some of the men scream and cry in agony
under the snow.
We sat above it all, and I was grateful that a few of us were left. Still, sitting on the
branches felt like sitting on a bunch of damn rusty razor blades. Around twenty of us made it into
the trees, but I had no idea where Jim was. I ended up in a tree with Devena, on a branch to her
left. Looks like we made it out of there with our asses still intact, Devena said.

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39

I wasnt in the mood to talk. Not to her. Because of her, I couldnt get to Ron, dammit.
Rons face still roamed through my mind. What could I have done different to save him? Should
I have even brought him out here? All these thoughts tore through my head, but it was too late.
All of it meant nothing. My head was about to explode all over Devena.
My daughter was kidnapped by some psycho killer. A dead body was back in my house,
and my family is hiding the truth from me. Now Ron was dead. I sighed and just stared up at the
moon. To top it all off, we were sitting in a tree, wondering if we could get down without the
snow eating us.
I knew that was going through everyones mind, and apparently Devena picked up on my
brooding. Come on, man. Dont worry. Okay, I mean, you will worry, just like I am. But were
getting out of here and getting our kids back.
I glared at her, and the look on her face exposed her surprise at my reaction.
You shouldnt have held me back, I said.
Her face softened with shock and sorrow. I turned away and looked back down at the
cold hell below usthe cold hell that took Ron, and maybe Jim, away from me. A moment later,
Devena give off a harsh sigh. Look, you want to join him now? Go ahead.
I jerked my head and frowned. Whatd you say?
I said, she exaggerated the word. Do you want to join him, now? At least I gave you
some time to think about it before you lost your life along with the rest of them down there. Then
what? Your daughter wont have a daddy to find her. Would she?
We both stared at each other with great contempt. I didnt like the way she looked at me.
As if I was the idiot, because I attempted to save my nephew. More than that, I didnt like the

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40

fact that she was right. If I jumped out there to save Ron, I wouldnt have been here. Lane would
still be out there, and I wouldve been another soul for helpless help in the frozen abyss.
I exhaled and nodded at her. She did the same, but patted me on the shoulder. To my
surprise, that alone lifted my spirits a bit.
To my far left, Akin climbed from tree to tree. Move from these trees and head to the
north side.
Is he crazy? Devena asked. Does he expect us to hang and swing from a tree like a
monkey?
Well, isnt that what you people are? said someone in a nearby tree.
Who the hell? Devena replied.
I shined my flashlight and saw it was Bob who made that racist comment.
Watch your mouth, Robert, I said.
Dont tell me what to do. Were in the middle of nowhere in the snow, ready to be
ripped apart by it, and its your fault. Bob then turned his attention toward Devena. I mean,
what kind of mother loses her child, especially out here? You guysall of youjust freaking
stupid.
If we werent out here, you wouldnt be alive, asshole, Devena told Bob.
I noticed that Bobs tree looked like it was moving. My God, that tree is actually moving
its branches.
Bob, get out of the tree, I said.
Even as I said it, several tree branches bent toward Bob from his rear, as if it was a sneak
attack.

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41

No way, man, Bob said. Im not getting off this tree. Youre trying to kill me, arent
you?
The tree branches behind you.
Man, shut up, Bob said. Im tired of your bull and this thing you got against me. I
didnt do anything to her, Zim.
Devena shot a bullet at one of the moving tree branches to shut Bob up. Get out of the
damn tree, you idiot. The branches are moving.
Bob laughed. Whatever; you guys are so fullAhhhh!
A tree branch knocked Bob from his perch and he fell, but caught onto another branch
that wasnt moving. One side of Bobs tree had a lot of snow on its branches, causing them to
move. I shined my flashlight in Akins direction. Now I knew why he told everybody to move to
the trees to the north. Almost no snow was on any of those branches.
Guys, I said. Lets do what Akin said. Move to the northern trees. They have barely
any snow on them. Well be safer there.
We all climbed from tree to tree. We didnt want to chance stepping foot on the ground
after we saw so many men die below. We tried to do it quickly and calmly, not getting too
emotional like Bob had, or if we worked up too much body heat, the snow on these trees would
go after us.
We swung and climbed our way to the next stand of trees to the north. A few of the men,
though, must have either gotten scared or generated too much heat, because several tree branches
grabbed at some of them and pulled them down into the snow.
I watched as someone plummeted to the ground not far in front of me.

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Everyone calm down, Akin said. His voice carried through the crisp night air. Just
take it slow and easy.
Others slipped off and fell down to their deaths, screaming in horror. Some called on the
name of Jesus to save them; others cursed like a sailor all the way down.
I grimaced as I watched Akin move like some jungle cat. He was easily the most flexible
and agile of all of us. Akin stopped and positioned himself on a tall oak tree in the northern stand
of trees.
Whats he doing? Devena said in a tree next to me.
I stopped, hung from a branch, and pulled myself up to watch. Devena did the same and
pointed. Look. Akin took out a collapsible sniper rifle from his backpack, opened it, and took
aim in our general direction.
What the hell is he doing? Devena said. Oh man.
I held out my arm. No, hes not aiming at us.
Akin shot a few rounds at the tree branches that tried to grab us and fired at some of the
men who already fell into the snow.
Devena turned and looked at me. Mercy killings, she whispered.
I nodded. Lets keep going.
Devena and I kept swinging from tree to tree as best as we could. We came upon Bob,
who mustve gotten ahead of us when we stopped to watch Akin.
Guys, Bob said. Guys, help me. Please.
Hold on, man, Devena said. Weve got to save ourselves first.
Devena kept moving, but I stopped and looked over at Bob. Some snow on a nearby
branch crawled in his direction. It must have sensed Bobs heat from a distance.

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Bob, watch out, I said.

Bob turned and saw the snow head toward him. Oh man. He clambered down to the
branch beneath him, yanked out his gun, and shot at the snow above him. It worked for the
moment, at least, as the snow scattered and fell to the ground.
I nodded and swung. One of Akins men grabbed onto a tree trunk to take a break, but
below him, some snow climbed the trunk to get him.
Hey, look out, I said.
It was too late. The snow covered his right hand and frostbit him. The man hollered
louder than all the others before him. I climbed onto a branch, hoping for a chance to fire my
tactical shotgun and save him. I pointed my flashlight at the guy, and I could see his hand turn
black, oozing blood.
I raised my shotgun and flashlight together, but I couldnt get a clean shot. The snow
covered his body, and the tree leaned over toward a snowbank, which in turn opened into a giant
hole, looking like a white hill with teeth poking out of it, one that had a taste for human meat.
I watched as a long tentacle of hard-packed icy snow came up out of its hole and grabbed
the man. He screamed from beneath the snow.
I looked ahead and flashed my light across the trees. Akin already aimed his rifle down
into the snowbank. One shot and the man quit screaming. Akin threw a glance in my direction,
but I doubted he could see my face. I shut off my flashlight and moved forward.
A few minutes later, I heard Devena curse to my right. Ahh, Im stuck.
Her foot was caught between some branches. I pulled myself up onto a branch close to
Devena and shined my light at him. A line of snow headed toward her stuck foot. I reached out
and tried to grab her hand, but her foot was snagged in the branches pretty good.

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Hang on, I said.

Cant go anywhere anyway, she said.
The snow got closer and closer to her caught boot, ready to attack. I kept pulling at the
branch, but it was just too strong.
Then I heard a gunshot.
Ahhhhh, shit, Devena said. What the hell?
A gunshot to the foot. The shot, however, released her foot from the branch, and the snow
absorbed and fed on the blood left on the branch by the gunshot wound. I looked down and saw
that Bob had shot the bullet, but before I could say anything, I heard Akins voice.
Lets move, people, he said. Theres a cave just ahead where we should be able to find
shelter.
I saw the remaining guys, including Bob, climb and swing forward as fast as they could.
Devena, however, just looked at me. I cant move, man. My foot. It hurts too much.
I nodded, then looked down. We were pretty close to the ground, and only about twenty
yards from the cave. The snow drifted to at least a couple of feet deep below us. I twisted around
on my branch so I faced Devenas back.
Just stay calm and be ready to move, okay? I said to her. And this might hurt a little.
She looked back over his shoulder at me. Why? What are you going toAhhhhh!
Devena sailed through the air thanks to a double-footed push from me. She landed softly
in the snow below and tried to stand.
Damn, man, she said.
Sorry. Just stay calm, remember? I said.
I cant. God, I cant walk.

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Crawl. Just crawl. Nice and easy.

I swallowed hard as I watched Devena crawl the last few yards toward the cave. Shit, I
shouldnt have done that. I had to go down and save her. A moment later, though, Akin ran out
and helped her the rest of the way as a few small snow tentacles formed and took aim at Devena.
I took a few deep, calming breaths, then jumped down into the snow myself. It was a
harder fall than I expected, and I almost split my left leg in two, but I made it.
I think youre the last two. Keep going deeper, Akin said. He handed Devena off to me
and shined a bright flashlight ahead of us. Its a lot warmer and moister in here. We should be
safe here.
I nodded and helped Devena along. Sorry about that, I said.
Urgh, could give a girl a detailed warning before you kick her to the curb, she said.
I did give you a warning.
I said a detailed warning, man.
I grinned a little, then shook my head. Soon enough, Devena and I heard some of the
other men mill ahead of us. We saw them in the light of Akins beam. Hey, you hurt, Devena?
one of the men asked. We helped Devena into a seated position against the side wall of the cave.
It was Chris who asked, as he walked up to us.
Shes been shot, I said.
What? By who?
We all heard somebody scream and shoot from the direction of the cave entrance, and he
was getting closer to us. We turned and aimed our weapons, but when we saw who it was, all in
the group, except me, put their guns down. It was Bob, hauling ass into the cave.
Its me. Im okay, Bob said.

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Thats the problem, I said.

Hey, lower you gun, Chris said.
I didnt respond. Devena scooted into a more comfortable position. If you guys got some
mushroom tip issues to work out, then settle it when we all get the hell out of here.
He shot you, Devena, I said, still eyeing Bob with my shotgun leveled at him.
Wellyeah, but it saved my life, didnt it?
I sighed and lowered my weapon. I couldnt just shoot Bob at point-blank range. I didnt
have proof that he what he did at my house, but I knew that if I let him live long enough, the
truth would come out, especially in this environment, in this white death trap.
We settled in and one of Akins men made a fire. We all sat and watched as the smoke
wisped its way up through cracks in the caves clammy ceiling. The night outside grew darker,
and the cold wind moaned at the entrance. Something told me that we were going to be in here
for a while. I didnt mind, though. I needed the rest.
A part of me, though, felt that in this cave were more than just us men looking to save our
children. Something lurked in here. I mightve been paranoid now, but sometimes being paranoid
could keep you alive.

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Chapter Five
January 1, 2050

It was New Years Day. Id be forty-one years old in two months. In those coming two
months, I hoped the snow would die down. Some years, wed had just normal winters. No real
blizzards or snowstorms and hardly any snow. Sometimes the country never really shut down. It
was just put on standby depending on the weather.
We had winters that were so nice; it couldve been mistaken for summer. Still, the
government took no chances, so the kids and all us grown folks didnt have to go to school or
work. Those warmer winters with no snow ended up being a lot of fun, but not this time. This
time, the winter was terrible, and not just the weather.
This winter was worse because of all that transpired. Ron was dead; Jim mightve been,
too. I didnt have to say it again to the guys I was with. Id said it many times in this cave how
messed up this whole situation was, and these men knew it themselves all too well after these
past few weeks.
Wed been stuck in this hole since late last year, thanks to blizzard-like conditions that
never let up, starting the day after we made it into the cave. Akin, though, had packed plenty of
survival food, and we found a small spring deeper in the caves. After all, it wasnt like we were
going to go out to collect some snow to melt for water.
I got somewhat comfortable, and my mind drifted back to the last day I was with my wife
and kids. After that day, my week went straight to the lowest depths of hell.
I remembered it so vividly. It was a few days after I got back from a recent tour in
Johannesburg. The final weeks of autumn passed quickly. December 21 was around the blasted

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corner, but the way the weather forecast looked, the heavy snow would likely come earlier than
that. It became clear that it was going to be a dangerous winter. My plan was to finish getting
everything ready, lock down the house, and spend some quality time with the wife and kids.
Zach, is the winterization furnace on? Daphne asked.
My son Zach ran back down the stairs again. Not yet, Mombut almost.
Well, hurry. Our aunt and the others are on their way.
The light snow had continued on and off since Id returned home on the last day of
November, going back and forth fighting with autumn, but we hadnt even gotten close to a foot
of accumulation, so we were still safe.
If you ever experience winters like what we have, youd view the fall as trying to hold
back the old man in the frosty blue coat from peeling his way into your lives for three to four
months or even longer.
Yo, Zach, you got the firewood, man? my youngest son Micky asked.
Zach still ran around the house. Not yet. Mom wants me to keep checking the furnace to
see if it revs up.
Daphne banged her knuckles onto the table. Hurry up, boys.
Lane bounced around the house like a hyperactive bunny. Winter is coming, winter is
coming. I get to see the snow.
Soon enough, Daphne got on the phone with the insurance agency. Yes, I like to speak
with someone about getting the super-generators turned on in my house.
Daphne turned around and snapped her fingers at me. Uh, Zim.
Yeah, honey?
Take these forms to the agency for me?

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What? Cant we just submit the forms online?

Yeah, but I need you to pick up a few things, too. Kill two birds with one stone.
Uh, okay, but its easier to just do the forms online, isnt it? Or give them the codes on
the forms and verify our info since youre on the phone with them and
Daphne rubbed the bridge of her noise. You know what? Im not trying to argue here.
Can you please for once just do what I want?
I stopped and stared at her for a moment. Whats that supposed to mean?
She rolled her eyes, got out of the chair, and went upstairs. I dont like it when people
dont answer meI really dontso she had me about as wound up as I can get.
Daddy, Daddy, let me come with you. Lane ran toward me like a happy puppy.
Ehh, I dont know, I said.
Pleeeaaase, please, Daddy, please. I love you, Daddy, please.
How could I say no to that?
Oh, alright, sweetie, get your coat and come on.
Yahooooooo.
She ran, then went up the stairs like a NASCAR driver burning some rubber. I got my
jacket and headed to the garage. My boys came through and grabbed their coats and hats, rushing
into the garage with the keys to my old truck.
Oh now, wait a minute, I said. Where do you think you two are going?
Mom wants us to get some things from the store across the bridge, Zach said.
I raised an eyebrow. Really? Well, Im going to the agency and Im supposed to pick up
some stuff on the way back. What does she want?
Uh no, thats okay, Pops. Mom, uh, wants us to go, so well get it for her.

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Yeah, no probs, Pops, Micky said. Well get the stuff for her. We just need to borrow
your truck.
Zach punched Micky in the arm after he threw that little remark out to me.
Oh, I get it. You boys wanna drive my truck, huh? I said.
Come on, Pops, its not winter yet, Zach said. Well be back before you know it.
I put my finger on my chin. Could I trust them with my truck in the snowy conditions? I
checked my phone for the current weather.
Pops, we promise, Micky said. Well be back in time, promise. Come on.
I sighed. Okay, okay. But that snow might pick up, so get what you have to and come
straight home.
The boys fist-bumped each other and ran to the truck.
And keep those seat belts on at all times, boys. No funny stuff.
Sure thing, Pops, Zach said.
My sons jumped into my truck, backed out of the driveway, and off they went. Lane soon
came running into the garage, all bundled up, and the two of us got into my SUV and pulled out.
Before I backed down the driveway too far, I looked up and my wife stared out of our bedroom
window. She glared at me with the same expression shed had since I came home.
I wondered about that glare for the whole duration of the ride. We soon arrived at the
agency and stood in line with a bunch of other people. Some were mad that they couldnt qualify
for the free heat and hot water. Some were dancing with joy. After I sat down with the agent, I
still thought about Daphne. Sir, the agent said, drawing my attention back to him. Sir, I need
you to sign on the dotted line here.

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I looked at the forms again and signed on the dotted line. Lane jumped into my arms and
we both headed back to the car. I remembered my sons and their trip to the store. I opened my
phone and turned on the GPS tracker that linked to my old truck. By the looks of it, they were
indeed at the store. I felt a little more at ease, even though the snow picked up. Still, there
couldnt have been more than five inches on the ground. We were still safe.
Is the snow mad at you or something, Daddy? Lane asked me from her car seat.
I chuckled a little. No, honey, its not mad at me. I glanced at the road as the
snowflakes came down. Its just mad at everybody.
She shook her head. Thats weird.
Lane sighed and we fell into an uneasy silence. So, sweetie, howd you like living with
mommy in Mexico?
Fine, she said, with no expression.
Is she treating you right down there? I asked.
Yeah, she said, looking outside.
I could tell Lane didnt like living there because she didnt talk about it too much. Her
real mother lived in a part of Mexico where danger was like recess. Drugs and stuff were shipped
back and forth in that area.
Still, I loved to talk to Lane, and she loved to talk to me. I figured the only good thing
about winter coming was wed spend it together.
Hey, Daddy? Lane said.
Yes, honey?
Lets sing that song.
What song?

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52

The I Love You song.

You still remember that song, sweetie?
Uh, yeah, Daddy.
Oh, okay. I guess. You start.
Okay. She cleared her throat as if she was about to record for a label. I love you. You
love me, too. Lane loves Daddy, very, very muchvery, very much.
I reached back and patted her on the leg.
Your turn, Daddy.
I laughed. Alright, get your ears ready for this. I love you. You know its true. Daddy
loves Laaaane, very, very muchvery, very much.
Lane joined in and we sang together, I love you. You love me, too. Lane loves Daddy,
very, very muchvery, very much. I love you. You know its true. Daddy loves Laaaane, very,
very muchvery, very much.
We sang the rest of the way home. I pulled into the driveway, picked up my Lane, and
carried her into the house. She looked tired, so I put her to bed. Her room was decorated from top
to bottom with stuff that featured Red Bear, a cartoon character that Lane just adored. I knew she
didnt like naps, so I tricked her.
You dont have to go to sleep, baby. Just lie down and rest your eyes, I said as I handed
her the red teddy bear.
She listened and rested those little eyes, lying down comfortably on her Red Bear bed.
She soon fell asleepit worked every time. Afterwards, I pulled out my phone and pulled up the
GPS to track my sons again. They were still at the store. What was taking them so long? We had
been gone for like three hours, and the store wasnt that far from the house. I started to call them,

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but then I figured that the boys didnt know a thing about grocery shopping, and I had to face it;
neither did I. So I figured it might be awhile before they got home.
I slipped out of Lanes room to look for Daphne. I hoped to smooth things out now that
the house was nice and quiet. I found her in our bed with her phone in hand, texting away. The
TV across from her featured a blizzard warning and news clips of the Snowoman predator, some
female nut-job who kills during the winter months. I stopped in the doorway and pursed my lips.
Just looking at her long brunette hair, her glossy lips, and her slim toned legs mesmerized me
every time. I took a deep breath and approached her.
Hey, I didnt expect to find a sexy queen waiting on my bed when I got home.
She didnt even look up.
I jumped on the bed behind her, kissed her neck, and slid my hands around her stomach.
She leaned forward and pulled out of my grasp. I sighed and decided to take things a little
slower. I rubbed her upper back and pressed in on her shoulders. She just got tighter around the
shoulders and neck. I didnt get itand I didnt like the vibe I was getting from her. I threw up
my hands and asked, What is your problem?
You, she said, slamming the phone onto the bed.
The last shred of patience inside me snapped. Huh? What do you mean me? Youre the
one with the attitude.
Daphne pushed herself off the bed and faced me. Oh God, now all of a sudden Im the
one with the attitude, you volunteer for another tour over there after I tried to be the best partner I
couldve been for you. But whenever you were home, you always had the attitude. You always
got mad when things didnt go your way.
Daphne, what are you talking about? What things didnt go my way?

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54

Oh please. You know what I mean. You couldnt visit your Mexican whore. I watched
you stare outside the window, looking at the snow, wishing you were down there with her and
Lane rather than spending time with me and our boys, especially knowing the little time we had
in the fall.
With her final words, she was so close to me that I felt her spit on my face.
Youve got to be joking. You think I want to be with her? Is that what this is about? Is
that why youre so angry with me?
Why else would you volunteer to go on another tour? Thats your chance to go to
another outpost somewhere, like you did the first time in Mexico.
You think I would risk my life to go somewhere to be with another woman? I could do
thatlook, Im not seeing her, okay? Besides, Daphne, its not voluntary. Its required service. I
still had two more years on my active-duty contract to fulfill until I was cut loose. The only
reason Im back now is because of how far we got in the war. You know that. Besides, you never
acted sad or angry when we were going out and having fun.
Well, I guess Im just as good an actor as you are, Zim. Acting like you care, acting like
youre such a good father to our sons when all you really care about is your other life.
As we yelled at each other, I thought about Lane. She could be listening to me and her
stepmom argue. She might think being here with us was no different than being at home in
Mexico. This experience might remind her of the relationship her real mom and I had when I
came to visit.
Okay, listen, Im sorry. Lets lower our voices and talk about his like grown-ups,
okay?

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Daphne just kept getting louder. No. What kind of husband wants to go to war instead of
spending time with his family? What kind of husband and father is never here, always working,
and always putting duty above me and my needs? You never called me while you were
deployednever once did you call me.
Oh, stop lying. I did, too, call you.
Yeah, once or twiceout of the ten different deployments.
She laughed, shook her head, then sobbed. I had ... had to raise two boys and a
stepdaughter all by myself. I had to avoid advances from other men because whenever I went out
somewhere, I was always alone. Id tell them I was married. But the guys never saw younever,
Zim. Even when we were together. Never!
Hey, hey, lower your voice.
I wanted this nagging to end, mostly so Lane wouldnt hear it. What choice did I have? I
decided to be the bad guy.
Okay, I realize what youre saying and how important this whole situation is to you. But
you need to lower your voice. Lane is sleeping, Daphne.
No, no, I wont listen to you. You never listened to me when I tried to tell you this in a
nicer manner before. Now Im telling you the only way I know youll listen to me. Maybe all
that shooting over there in Africa, or the sounds of your drug-dealing whore screwing you
plugged your ears up or something.
Clearly didnt hear me when I was crying to you. I was crying for you not to go over
there, to stay with me and the boys. But no, you hardly ever stayed here, except when Lane was
here and not with her momwhere you wanted to be anyway. But I guess the child of that

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56

crackhead slut you knocked up is more important than me and the children you and I had
together.
I closed my eyes and grabbed the side of my head. A sharp whistle rang through my ears.
I opened my eyes to a string of blurs. My stomach turned around and I saw Daphne hit the right
side of her head against the nightstand.
Oh no. Daphne, are you alright? I asked.
I dropped to my knees to help her, but she pushed me away.
Get the hell away from me!
She had what looked like a fresh welt on her left cheek. Huh? But she smacked the right
side of her head when she fell. I reached out to touch her face, but she slapped away my hand,
jumped up, and ran down the stairs. I ran down after her. She grabbed her coat out of the closet
and blinked through her tears. I knew where she was going, whenever the both of us had issues,
her mothers.
Who hurt you? I asked.
She looked at me with such dread. She shook her head and ran into the garage, then got
into her car and opened the garage door. I couldnt just let her leave without answering my
question.
Who hurt you?
She turned on the car and glared at me. Are you some kind of psycho? Maybe you
shouldve stayed in that crazy place over there in Africa, you bastard. She sped off, almost
ripping off my fingers from the door handle.
I watched as she tore down the driveway. I sighed and closed the garage door. I still
wondered why Daphne had fallenand how shed gotten that fresh bruise on her face. I went

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57

back inside and headed to the bathroom. I put some cold water on my face, but soon a stinging
sensation struck my right hand like I hit something hard. I looked at my hand, and it all came to
me.
Daphnes bruise and her fall were because of me, because I hit her.
Oh God, no, I said.
I didnt remember doing it at all. I thought about the war in Somalia, how I would get so
mad at something or somebody, that I would do something irrational. Like shoot down an entire
platoon of Somali or Nigerian freedom fighters. Or punch a senior officer in the face because of
some smart remark hed made. I never remembered doing those things until a few minutes
afterward. The doctor said it was a delayed rage blackout.
War; it could make a person do crazy things, but having an abusive father could make
someone do crazy things, too.
I went back upstairs to check up on my Lane. I heard a thump in her room. I opened the
door and saw her lying in bed. I glanced at the mirror on the side of her bed, and it was a big
mirror. I could practically see everything in it. The way the mirror was positioned, I was able to
see her face. She was very much awake, and her eyes were wide and fearful. I knew she heard
everything that happened, mightve heard me hit her stepmom. I walked toward her to comfort
her. Every step I took toward her bed, she squeezed tighter and tighter to her big red teddy bear.
My heart dropped, knowing Id allowed this to happen. I backed away and proceeded to close the
door. Her death grip on the bear lessened with every inch of the door closing.
Daphne was gone and my Lane was scared of me. I shook my head. I couldnt deal with
it. I went to the couch to lay my head down and dazed out of reality right away, but the stress
from my wife and Lane still hung heavy in my mind. In fact, it was so heavy that I dreamt about

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them. I was back in Somalia, fighting the man responsible for the war, Joseph Kion. My little girl
was held hostage, and Joseph Kion laughed as he slit the throats of a thousand Lanes.
The snow came down on us in the middle of nowhere. The soldiers took cover as the
sergeant screamed over and over again, Stay away from the snow! Stay away from the snow!
The top of my head was chopped off by a machete. Lane, Zach, Micky, Daphne, the children of
Somalia, and Kion all shouted, Daddy, Daddy, Daddy!
Blood and pieces of brain tissue spilled all over the snow. It devoured every morsel of
me that fell onto its white fields. Youre one of them, Joseph said. And one of us, Zimmerth
Mac.
Lane shouted, Daddy, help me!
I jerked upward into a sitting position, heart pounding, sweat all over, and with a bad
chest pain. Next thing I knew, I was back in the present, back in the cave. The men stared at me
as I caught my breath. Oh great, I hoped these guys didnt think I was a psycho. Hey, bud,
Russell said. You okay?
Im ... yeah, I said. I just had a ... a bad dream.

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Chapter Six
January 1, 2050
12:30pm

By this time, wed all gotten to know each other pretty well, me, Chris, Devena, Russell,
and Bob. Akin, though, had disappeared one night and was nowhere to be found. Chris didnt
look worried.
Wheres your boy, Akin? Devena asked Chris.
Chris shrugged. Dont know, but he deals with this kind of weather all the time. He
should be alright.
Three others also made it out of the woods with us; one of them was a big lumberjack
looking guy named Spacey. The other was Fred, a Jewish dwarf, and Cody was a fit Latino with
a thin mustache.
Hours later, we all sat around the fire listening to another of Devenas funny stories.
Devena was the one person who tried to cheer us up with interesting or humorous stories, either
from her own life or from something shed heard or read. Good thing the injury in Devenas foot
was only a flesh wound, so she was still able to move around after only a few days in the cave.
Her hood was down and I could better see what she looked like. She was cuter than I
thought, with her long dark curly hair and all. No, no she wasnt cute; she was actually beautiful.
Cute and beautiful are on two different levels in my book. It added to her humorous nature. It
was hard not to stare at her. I was like all the other fools in here, staring at the only woman in the
whole group. For her to come out here, she probably had more balls than a quarter of the men in
this state.

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The way she handled Bob and this whole situation thus far, I knew she could handle
herself. She had to be a single mom for her to come out here, or her man didnt have a pair. A
laugh found its way through my nostrils when I thought that.
She wasnt a comical woman, but she knew what it took to lighten the mood. Bob,
though, didnt like it at this moment.
Is that all you do, just joke around? Bob asked.
Devena didnt even acknowledge him. Bob picked up a rock and threw it at Devena.
Hey, man, what is your problem? Devena asked Bob.
Bob frowned, got up and walked away. I saw him glare at Fred as he passed by. I already
had my doubts about Bob. Lately, he would always fiddle with his necklace, but at an angle
away from us so that no one could see him. Bob stopped several yards away from the fire. His
hand reached into his coat, and he fished around until he pulled out that necklace again.
Whats with you and that necklace, man? Russell called out to him. You married to it
or something?
Bob didnt answer or even turn in his direction. I rolled my eyes. Id never liked him, not
one bit, and now, with all that had happened at my house, I liked him even less. I was going to
find out the truth. I knew he had something to do with Nancys death. I dont give a damn what
Jim said.
For a few moments, no one spoke, and we could only hear the howl of the wind whistling
through the cave. As always, my mind went to Lane, my boys, and even Daphne. I said a quick
prayer that they would all be okay and that Daphne would forgive me. I thought about the people
who already died and where Jim could be.

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Minutes later, an explosion came from farther back in the cave. What the hell was that?
Devena shouted above the echo that washed over us. It hit my ears like a raging roar as it
rumbled the cave to its core. Oh man, Russell said. We waited to see if it would happen again.
It didnt. I stood and hefted my assault shotgun.
Chris stood not far from me. We should see what that was, right?
To my surprise, all of the other men agreed. I guess waiting here with nothing to do was
worse than going to see what blew up.
We ventured farther into the moist, hollow cave and came to a fork that split into two
corridors. I looked at Chris, who led with me. I didnt know his background, other than he was
super-rich, but he was pretty sharp in terms of military tactics.
We should split into two groups, Chris said. Zim, Devena, Spacey, Cody, you check
the right side. Russell, Fred, Bob, and I will check out the left side.
Everybody agreed except me, but I didnt say anything out loud. As the other guys split
into their groupings, I pulled Chris to the side.
I wouldnt recommend taking Bob, I whispered to him.
You got a better idea? Chris whispered back.
I looked at him and glanced at Bob as he prepped his weapon. No, not really, I said.
The two groups proceeded down the assigned tunnels, shining a flashlight to illuminate
the paths. Devena and I took the lead in our group, with Spacey and young Cody not far behind. I
noticed how the tunnel grew narrower as we went farther.
So how are you doing, man? Devena asked me.
I shrugged. Better than the dead.

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Devena looked back over his shoulder and leaned closer to me. Hey, I dont know that
much about what happened with you and the others you came with, just the bits youve told me.
But you shouldnt blame yourself for what happened, especially with Ron.
I frowned. Id never talked to her or anybody else in the cave about Ron and what I
thought about it. Even though wed been in the cave for some time since Ron had died, I stayed
quiet, not saying much. Wasnt much to say anyway. Another member of my family had died,
and it all started with us being out here when we shouldnt have been.
I took a deep breath and nodded at Devena. Thanks for the whole cheer up thing.
Youre good at that. But Im not in the mood right now, nor do I know you that well to talk about
it. I tried to come across as polite, but firm. She gave off that harsh sigh again, but then...
I understand, Devena said. I never liked to talk about the death of my husband to
anyone, either. But I realized that in time I had to just let it go and express how I felt to
someone.
Now she got me curious. How did that feel, finally talking to someone about that?
Uh, well, I dont know yet. Youre the first person I told about it. I just had all this time
to think about it, and I know its eating me up, so, here I am, talking about it.
I slowed down and almost stopped. Boy, did that stomp me. She really must have had a
lot on her plate. She seemed so calm and cool about everything.
So, Ms. or Mr-is. Devena, how did your husband die? Cody asked.
Devena and I turned around to find Cody and Spacey right on our tails.
Man, dont be asking someone that, Spacey said.
Devena looked at me, shook her head, and smiled. Ill tell you when you turn black, lose
your mushroom tip, and take my last name and social security number.

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Oh, shit; that caught me off guard. Spacey and I laughed as Codys face turned a bit red,
but he still wore a big grin.
With the mood a little lighter now, we ventured farther into the cave, and soon enough,
we heard a faint noise. We got closer and closer, and the noise grew louder. The temperature in
the cave heated up fast, and it became humid. We all stopped and listened to the odd noise.
Whats that? Spacey whispered.
Sounds like someones stomach is grumbling or growling or aching, Cody said.
Or snoring. Dont forget snoring, Devena said, rolling her eyes.
Come on, I whispered. Lets see if the noise had anything to do with the explosion.
We soon reached the end of the tunnel and came into another cave. Cody gasped. Holy
fuMmm.
I covered Codys mouth before he could utter the next colorful word. We stumbled into a
group of sleeping black bears: a mother and five cubs.
Just what we needed, waking a sleeping mama bear with her babies.
Devena tapped my arm and pointed past the bears; I saw another exit from the cave, so I
nodded at Devena, and she waved Spacey and Cody forward. We tried to head to the exit tunnel
without waking the bears.
Seems like theyre in hibernation, Cody whispered. Whatd you guys think?
Spacey snorted. Last name, Shit Sherlock. First name, No.
Shhh, Devena said.
We tiptoed to the other side of the cave. Cody accidently stepped on one of the cubs
small tails. The little bear gave off a loud yawn. Codys face scrunched with fear. I heard

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something above us and shined my flashlight in that direction. I saw a large fissure directly
overhead, large enough that a few wisps of snow swirled downward from outside.
Oh man oh man oh man, Cody said.
I shined my flashlight at him. Cody looked about ready to pass out from fear of the bears
waking. I heard another noise overhead. The snow sensed Codys fear too, and a flurry of
snowflakes fell on his head, scouting.
Cody, move, I said.
He looked up and shined his flashlight that way with trembling hands. A snow tentacle
shot downward and its ice-hardened spike tip went straight through his eye. Without uttering a
sound, Cody fell backward. Devena jumped toward Cody and caught him before he landed on a
bear cub. More snow tentacles began to form above us.
This place is a dead zone, Devena whispered to me. We have to get out of here.
I nodded and shined my flashlight at Spacey. He was petrified, but he took deep breaths,
trying to calm himself.
We tiptoed as fast as we could through that cave of doom and into the exit tunnel. Some
of the snow from above fell down on us, but that wasnt the worst of it. The snow landed on
some of the bears. The mother bear must have woken up, because we heard her bellow. At that
point, Devena, Spacey, and I knew by her loud roar that she wasnt too happy about being
disturbed. The four of us didnt even try to be quiet anymore; we sprinted through the tunnel,
trying to escape from the mother bear and the snow.
Oh man, well never make it, Spacey said.
Hey, I said. Just try to stay calm, okay? Just cool it and well be all right.
Damn, I just remembered. Chris, he gave me this.

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Spacey stopped, jammed his hands into his jacket pockets and soon produced a small
electronic device.
Whats that? Devena said.
Guys, we need to keep moving, I said.
Devena nodded and pulled big ass Spacey along.
GPS, Spacey said. He looked at the device and tried to walk straight, but kept
stumbling. Its supposed to be locked on to the other groups signal.
I looked at Devena and she just shrugged, no doubt also wondering why Chris wouldnt
have told us about the GPS.
After Spacey played with the device for a few seconds, it beeped.
Shh, I said.
Ahead of Spacey and me, Devena panted. Can you ... see ... where they are?
Before Spacey could answer, the mother bear roared.
Move, I said.
Our excitement ended up drawing more than just the bear. Just as I heard, then caught
sight of more snow coming down through the cracks in the ceiling, Spacey screamed from
behind. I looked back and shined my flashlight, only to see him pinned to the floor and under
attack by a mound of snow.
Help me. Help me, Zim, Devena, Spacey said.
Devena, I said.
I looked ahead and saw that Devena was doing her best to avoid the snow assaults from
above. She couldnt get back to help in time. She sprinted so far down the cave; I couldnt even

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see her anymore. I turned back to Spacey and took a deep breath to calm myself, just in time to
see the snow mound form into six tentacles with sharp tips and skewer the man.
Ahhhh. Help. Please help! Spacey shouted.
I took a step to help him, but I knew it was too late. I closed my eyes, turned, and headed
for Devena.
I heard the bear maul Spacey; his blood-curdling screams rang in my ear, reminding me
of my tour in Africa, fighting in the war, hearing the cries of young men falling to their deaths as
they were shot to pieces. It also reminded me of Ron. I shoved it all aside and ran to catch up to
Devena, feeling like I was heading down a slight slope.
I got farther away from the bear and Spacey, but his screams didnt seem to fade from my
mind. It wasnt until I hit a dark corner that I finally found some peace. I stopped to take a
minute to catch my breath and calm down. I shined my light all around and up at the ceiling.
Fortunately, I saw no snow around this part of the cave, and it felt moist and almost warm. I
figured I reached some of the lower parts of the caverns. Wherever I was, I had no idea of
Devenas location. She completely disappeared.
I took a moment to gather my thoughts and figure out what to do next. I decided to keep
heading downward until I found another tunnel that would hopefully lead upward. As I
journeyed farther in, I found a river flowing through sort of an inner sanctum. I looked around
and sawand heardnothing. Where was the other group? The only way to find them would be
with Spaceys....
I sighed.

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To get the GPS, I would have to go back toward the cave where those bears were, where
Codys body likely laid on the ground, mangled. My heart throbbed. I didnt have a choice in the
matter. Devena was gone, so Chris and his group were my best bet. Shit, Lane.
I mustered up the courage to go back and retrieve the GPS. I hoped it was still on the
ground near where Cody was attacked. Before I left the river cave, I checked my weapons and
decided to switch to my pistol, which I carried in my right hand. In my left, I clutched my
flashlight, but also had an ice pick hanging by a loop from that wrist.
I crept back toward the cave. Most of the snow on the ground was scattered, and I kept
myself calm, so I didnt have to worry much about that. I reached the point where Cody was
attacked. I shined my flashlight back and forth over his remains, then stopped myself from
throwing up. I had to suck it in and keep on goingfor Lane. I shined the light around again, but
didnt see the GPS anywhere. I stood there for a few seconds, knowing that the GPS had to be
around there somewhere.
Unconceivable anxiety was kicking in, then I heard several faint beeps.
The GPS.
I got excited, but soon realized where it was coming fromthe bear pit. As I moved in
that direction, the beeping grew louder, along with some moaning, which I could only assume
came from the bear. The beeps and moans grew louder, so did the beats and the aches in my
heart. The pain got unbearable, like my heart would soon explode out of my chest.
In fact, my chest tightened up, and it stopped me in my tracks. I hoped that all the stress
wasnt going to give me a heart attack, something that Id feared for a long time; unexpected
heart problems ran in my family. I took a few deep breaths and rechecked my weapon, then crept
forward.

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I got to the end of the tunnel and craned my neck to peek into the bear cave. The cubs
were all back to sleep, but the mother bear lay on the ground. When I heard the beeps, she
twisted, turned, and moaned.
Oh, damn. The beeps came from inside the mother bear. I pulled my head back, closed
my eyes, and took another deep breath. The bear ate the GPS when shed devoured Cody.
This bitch.
The GPS still worked at least. I shook my head, knowing what I had to doconfront and
kill a bear with an upset stomach. I peeked back around the corner and raised my pistol, aiming
in the direction that I
Oh, shit.
The bear charged at me. Without thinking about it, thanks to all that time in a combat
zone, I fired three shots into the bear, but they barely slowed it down. It barreled toward me, and
I fired twice more before hauling ass back down the tunnel. This time, at least, the bear stopped,
but I heard it roar and start after me. I ran back to the sanctum and shined my flashlight back and
forth, spotting an exit tunnel near where the river flowed out of the cave.
I ran that way, and my chest grew more painful. I was afraid I was going to collapse
there and be devoured by the bear like Spacey had been. I knew I had to keep moving. I saw
some light in the distance and also heard the bear roar from behind.
I reached the exit and stopped right before reaching the snow. I could walk out into it,
yes, but I also knew that I was so stressed right now that the snow would immediately sense my
body heat and attack.
The bear roared again. It got closer. In front of me lay the white death, and I might as
well have been seasoned and cooked to perfection for the snow to rise up and kill me.

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In the light of the moon, I looked around to see what I could do. Once I saw the river, the
memories of my survival class from the Corps poured in. Taking a deep breath, I jumped into the
river and hoped what Id been taught worked. I surfaced and saw the bear emerge from the cave.
It followed in my tracks to the rivers edge and stood there, eyeing me.
It growled, but didnt have the balls to come into the water. I stayed in this ridiculously
cold water for at least ten minutes and let the river guide me downstream. The bear followed me
down the shoreline, but still didnt come in. It just waited to kill me when I came out. Id been in
the water long enough. I swam toward the shore opposite of the bear.
I emerged from the river like a man who had been baptized. My nearly frostbitten hands
touched the snow, and I kept my eyes shut tight in case my idea didnt work. I at least wouldnt
have to see myself get eaten alive by the snow. I waited a few moments and opened my eyes. I
was still alive and intact.
My instructor had been right about lowering my temperature so low that the snow
couldnt sense my body heat, and the gear I had on helped a lot, too. My emotions, though, still
ran wild, so I took a few deep breaths and calmed myself. I looked up and saw that the bear
decided to swim across in its pursuit of me. I got up and clutched my ice pick, knowing that my
pistol and shotguns wouldnt be worth a damn until I got a chance to dry them out and cleaned
them.
The bear lumbered toward me, bellowing a powerful roar. I stood my ground, ready to
defend and attack. The bear rose and swung its forepaws at me. I ducked, dodging, swung my ice
pick. The bear kept coming. It got a piece of my overcoat, but I got in a good swing of my pick
and tore off a chunk of its fur. The bear roared as its blood dripped onto the snow. I could do
this. I could survive.

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The snow rose in front of me. Dammit.

My adrenaline raced along with my heartbeat; I knew Id lost all the advantage. The snow
grew four tentacles. I swung at the bear, but the snow tentacle blocked my hit.
Holy Mary.
I struck again, and the tentacle swatted my arm away. I couldnt believe it. The bear
struck, and so did the snow. I fell back, picked up some large rocks around me, and hurled them
at the bear. The snows tentacle smacked them away.
You got to be kidding me.
One of the snows tentacles lashed out for my legs. It grabbed my right leg, picked me
up, and pulled me closer to the bears field of attack.
I chopped at the tentacle and the snowy arm fell apart just before the bear could reach me.
I scrambled back out of the bears range. I got my footing again just as the bear and the snow
tentacles joined forces. Both were going to share my remains with each. My heart beat super fast,
almost to the point where I couldnt keep standing.
I clambered onto a boulder to get some higher ground, but there was snow on the
boulder, and it purposely shifted so that I would slip off. I landed back on the ground, and
another patch of snow tried to attack me. I fought it off with the ice pick just in time to have the
bear and snow tentacles reach me again.
I knew I didnt have much time; my chest was killing me. The bear and the snow
approached. I swung at bear and pierced the creatures skin. I was so tired. I wasnt going to last
long.
Urrggh.

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I clamped on to my chest. My heart ached like nothing Id ever felt. A sharp pain struck
my left side. I was having a heart attack.
I fell to the ground in agony. The bear and the snow tentacles rushed toward me. The
snow beneath me ate away at my gear.
This was the end. I was going to die. I would never, ever, see my Lane again. Never see
Zach, Micky, and Daphne again.
Even amidst the pain in my chest, images flashed before my eyes. Bob, he was going to
get away with murder. The daymares came, the headless corpses, the war. It all came to me in a
matter of seconds.
Another stab of pain. Urggh. Damn it all.
Lane, she was out there, getting molested by a predator that thinks the winter is a good
time for her sick games.
The bear came at me, I snarled. Damn you! Damn you all!
I propped myself up and hurled my ice pick at the bear. I fell right back down; the ache
had its way with me. The snow swooshed around me. My eyes fluttered and finally closed.
This is the end, isnt it?

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Chapter Seven
January 4, 2050

It was cold. Was I dead? If I was, I wouldnt know it anyway, would I?

I opened my eyes after a series of horrible dreams, a dream about my wife sleeping with
Joseph Kion. A dream about my little girl lost in the snow, a dream about my deceased brother, a
dream about exploding little limbs, and a dream about a memory.
The memory. The day we raided the secret militia base in East Point, we uncovered a
massive human experiment operation in one of Kions bunkers. Kions men performed
unauthorized brain transplants on enemy captives. Exposed skulls and brains lay on the table.
Two of my men, Jesse and Walt, both around twenty five, stood next to me. We were
surrounded by a group of young Kion soldiers no older than fourteen. On the floor, dead bodies
lay, children to be exact, but they all tried to kill me and my team. We had no choice. As much
as it tortured me, we had to do it.
Moments later, a tall dark man entered the room. He wore a pair of camouflage pants and
a white polo shirt. He looked around and saw the carnage. His eyes dripped with sorrow and his
mouth quivered with rage. Who did this? he asked, you?
Neither of us responded, but I recognized the mans face. It was posted in the mission
files, all over the Internet, and even the billboards. The man was none other than Joseph Kion.
His quivering frown turned into a creepy smile. Hmm, you must be wondering how I
found you, no? You people have people on the inside that I love. I have brains of my greatest
spies, embedded in your units. I simply asked them, whats the tip top operation?

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I heard rumors that this guy loved to boast about how he managed to pull off some of his
attacks. He once told a small band of UN soldiers how he ambushed their unit in one of his
jungles. The story was so long that a rescue party had tracked them and took out Kions entire
infantry. He escaped, of course, as he always did.
I supposed running from death constantly could make an individual as fast as a cheetah. I
prayed he would ramble on about how he found us, and once again a rescue party would show up
and get us out, but the more I prayed for it, the more unrealistic it seemed. This mission was off
the books big time, and we were miles from the nearest base. I doubted wed still be alive before
anyone found us.
After his prideful monologue, Kion pulled out a pistol from under his shirt and pointed at
Walt. Whats your name? Kion asked. Walt didnt respond.
Kion huffed and shot Walt through the eye. Blood flew out the back of his head and
splashed on the white shirt of the armed boy behind him. Walts body fell back. I closed my
eyes, trying to hold back my tears. I heard Jesse pant.
These children you see here, lying on the ground, were my family. My future. And you
took them away from me. What gives you UN soldiers the right to come here and take away a
future Ive spent years building? What gives you the right to tell us how to live our lives? Huh?
He pointed his pistol at Jesse. Jesse panted and panted. No, please. Please dont do
this.
Whats your name? Kion asked.
Jesse froze and shook his head. Kion huffed again and shot Jesse in the neck. He fell
forward. I was next. I closed my eyes again and waited for my turn to come.

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No more, Kion said. No more will we be under the foot of you UN people, first
Romacovina, then World War X, now us? No, no more.
He began to cry, then chuckled. His eyes rolled to the back of his head and he chanted
something evil. He waved his head to and fro like a loose rag doll; the boys behind him chanted
also. He stopped and dropped his eyes, looking dead at me. Whats your name? He pointed the
pistol at my chest.
I looked at him without fear, but deep down, I was afraid. He stared at me for what
seemed like eternity. You pulled the trigger, didnt you? he asked.
I snorted. We all did.
Ah, I see, soldier man.
A rage grew in my gut; my anger eclipsed my fears. I wanted this man dead. I wanted
him dead now. Whats your name? he asked.
I frowned and snorted again. My name is Zimmery Mac.
I didnt bother to tell him anything more, no rank, what division, nothing.
Zim-merth Mac, Kion said. Hmph. Nice to meet you.
He said the last part in what sounded like a mocking of my own voice, and creepy as it
was, he sounded just like me.
Any last words, Mr. Mac?
I paused, then said, Im going to kill you. So help me God Im going to kill you.
He smirked as if he knew the threat was empty. I knew it was, too.
Hmm, well, whatever makes you sleep at night, old timer.
This time I didnt close my eyes.

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Before I could get ready to call it a day, the door behind us flew open. Weapon down,
someone from the outside shouted.
I snatched Kions pistol from his hand and shot him in the belly. He shouted and fell to
the ground. His boys took aim at me, but the UN unit outside shot the children dead. Kion rose
and sprinted to the side of the room. He dove through a window and ran into the jungle. I fell to
the ground and saw a gush of blood pour out of my stomach.
One of the armed boys mustve shot me. The unit commander came through the door,
wearing his medal infested helmet. Man down, man down, he said. His voice became a blur.
Everything became a blur. The sounds faded, and I faded into the darkness of an eternal void.
After a few seconds, the sound of an IV monitor rang in my ear.

Noooo!
My eyes popped open. I sat up, and my heart and breath raced. Id woken on a bed in the
middle of a large holey cave with candles flickering all around.
Im back.
Photographs of people hung on the cave walls. To my left, a pinup of a busty blonde
woman hung crooked. To my right was a wooden table with a few magazines: Snowflakes or
Microbes, and the other, Sentient Snow: Protector of the ecosystem? Next to the magazines were
chewed up sticks of dynamite.
The explosion in the bear cave?
Along one wall, I saw a well-stocked gun rack with rifles, pistols, even a crossbow, a
bookshelf, and a refrigerator standing against another wall, as if someone lived here. My
breathing slowed, and I heard a faint sound.

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Singing?
I twisted my body to look behind me. A man in a large fur coat sang to himself while
standing at a stove. His song sounded like one of those old ice cream tunes that Id listened to on
the Internet, from the 1950s. As I got up, the man saw me move and sang louder.
Who are you? I asked.
Just another resident of this area, he said.
I eyed him as he looked at me with these big, weird bug eyes. He looked dirty. He had a
long, stringy black beard, and his hair had bugs in it.
Looked like some homeless nut. I looked at him closer. Okay, so maybe he wasnt a nut.
After all, I think this guy saved my life.
How he did it, I didnt know, but however he pulled it off, I was grateful hed been
around to do it. I got up from the bed.
So whats your name? I asked him.
Oh, meRalick, my friend, Ralick. Yours?
I eyed him. Uh, Zim. Youyou live here, buddy?
Hee-ahh, uh, I think so. I think. Yeah, yeah, its mine.
He sounded fairly unsure of himself. The one thing about homeless people, if he was one,
they knew how to survive in the winter better than most sheltered folks, like me. It would explain
how he fought off a bear and the living snow, and save me from being a midnight snack. He
might have used some of those explosives we heard in the cave to help him survive the outdoors.
At least thats what I hoped.
So, my friend, what you doing out here anyway? Ralick asked.

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I thought about what I wanted to say; I didnt know this guy. Uh, I got lost, I said, true
in some ways, but still a lame excuse.
Well, youve been found.
Ha. I liked this guy. He reminded me of the great men and women Id fought alongside of
in the war. If there was one thing that I liked, it was a survivor. I liked a person who could
overcome all the odds no matter what the cost, or how much of a struggle it was. Whether it was
emotional or physical or both, they learned how to deal with it and kept living.
Ralick turned back to the stove and his open fur coat smacked against it, making a loud
sound, like he had something hard in his pocket.
Wait a minute. The GPS from the bear. Sounds like you have something beeping in your
pocket, I said.
He looked back at me and smiled. Oh, thats nothing.
I nodded, sensing he wanted to hold on to the GPS, which made sense to me. Most
homeless people didnt have much, so they salvaged whatever they could find. I wondered if
most of this stuff around his cave was even his, especially the pictures of the families. I didnt
think those people were related to him, but I understood how he felt. I encountered many like
him in Africa.
Is that a GPS thats beeping? I asked him.
He looked down toward his pocket. I dont know.
Ralick pulled it out of his pocket. My first instinct was to jump up and snatch it from him,
but that was my old temperamental ways from the war returning to me. I knew I had to treat this
man differently. After all, he did save my life.

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Is someone looking for you? I asked. The beeping noise tells you if someone is
looking for you.
He looked both curious and confused. Well, why would that be? Im not the one lost,
you are.
Bingo. I knew I had him, but I played along with him. Oh, yes, youre absolutely right.
Someone must be looking for me, then.
Yes, yes. Ralick got a super-serious look. We should find these people so you wont
be lost anymore.
He went to his gun rack and picked up an ice pick and a crossbow. Did he use those to
save me? He reached around the side of the gun rack and pulled another fur coat from where it
hung out of my sight.
Here, he said, put this on.
I reached for the coat, the fur of which looked like a bears.
A little hair off the dog that bit yaor should I say bear? Ha-ha-hahhh, Ralick said.
I chuckled a bit, too. I thought about Ralick and the fur coats as I put mine on over my
Nitro gear. This might have been how Ralick survived in the snow so long. Everyone knew that,
for whatever reason, the snow didnt attack animals, whether dead or alive, unless there was
human blood in them, like with the rabbits Id been shooting at my house. There were a lot of
theories on why the snow didnt kill animals, but no one really knew.
Ralick must have figured out that the fur of animals could mask a humans heat signature
from the snow. I stood there, shaking my head as Ralick packed some equipment. The Nitro
winter gear did a pretty good job protecting me against the snow, but I bet it couldnt match the

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performance of animal skin, because Ralick had no Nitro gear underneath his fur coat, so he
mustve relied on it for protection.
Why hadnt anyone else thought of this?
I buttoned my bearskin coat and followed Ralick out into the wisping snow to find the
others. Ralick handed me the GPS hed no doubt sliced out of the bears stomach.
We walked through the snow in silence. Ralick didnt say much, and I was still running
everything through my mind, Lane, the boys, Daphne, Akin, Chris, and whoever else was left
from our group.
We stumbled across a road; thank God. This was the first time Id seen a road since
leaving my house. Ralick and I stepped onto the snow-covered road and kept walking.
Wow, I said, using animal skins for protection is an amazing idea, Ralick.
He looked over at me and smiled. Survival of the fittest, my friend, survival of the
fittest.

Using the GPS, we continued down this long road covered by a white army of tiny
hunters, a white death that was no respecter of persons.
Along this long road, we spotted a large mansion in the distance. The GPS signal grew
stronger as we got closer to the mansion. It was a lot bigger than the house I had. I could tell this
was one of the super-rich peoples houses. I glanced over at my travel companion. In this white
weather, Ralicks red face told me that he didnt like what he saw. As we got closer, I could see
that the mansion had a giant transparent bio-dome over it.

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The dome blocked the snow from hitting the mansions multimillion-dollar luxury heatinsulated windows. The building shined like a diamond on a hill, as if taunting the rest of us poor
and just rich people on how the other half lived.
We spotted the long driveway that led to the mansion and headed that way, even as
Ralicks eyes grew crimson like a hot pepper. The snow beneath him didnt sense his rage, but I
did. In this world, only three classes of people existed, the dirt-bottom-of-the-pit poor, the rich,
and the super-swimming-in-piles-of-money rich, and thats what we both noticed. What would
Ralick do once we met the owner?
Since Chris gave Spacey the GPS, I wonder if it was Chriss place or somebody he was
affiliated with. That would explain the small army he had looking for his son. Were Devena and
the others in there, too? Bob, I prayed to God he wasnt.
We approached the mansions dome, and a large red beam shined down on us from our
right. I looked that way and saw the laser attached to a nearby tree. The beam, I knew, scanned to
see who we were.
Identify yourself, came a voice over an intercom.
The intercom was mounted to the same tree that held the laser, so I walked over and said,
Zimmery Mac, and Im here looking for Chris and the other team searching for the children.
Ralick looked at me, now knowing the truth.
The voice inside didnt respond.
Great, I hoped this was the right place.
Who is that man with you? the intercom voice asked.
This man saved my life from a bear in the cave. Because of him, Im talking to you,
asking for help.

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The voice once again paused, probably receiving confirmation from somebody in the
mansion, but I got tired of the wait.
Hey. Come on. Chris. I know youre in there. Devena, Russell, somebody, open up. Im
freezing out here.
Ralick poked me. Maybe they dont know you? We should leave and go back to my
cave, Zim.
I wanted to wait. There mustve been a surveillance camera around, probably rigged up in
the tree near the laser scanner. I held up the GPS that Chris gave Spacey; therefore, a small
section of the bio-dome opened.
Enter, said the loud voice from the intercom.
Ralick and I slipped through the opening in the dome and felt the warmth all around us.
The dome resealed itself, and I glanced at the ground that had no snow atop it. The grass was still
green. Amazing.
A single spotlight came on from high up on the house, leading the way to the mansion.
So this is how these slime-sucking parasites live, huh? Ralick said.
I agreed that this kind of lifestyle was ridiculous, and I bet only a handful of people lived
in this big ol place, even though this sort of technology could shelter thousands from the deadly
winters. The government just wasnt smart enough to think like that anymore.
Ralick grimaced. The stock market crashed, middle class goes extinct, and the bigger
parasites try to outdo the lower parasites. Pzzzh.
I guess I was the lower parasite.
Ralick stomped his feet on the smooth pavement. Look at how long these steps are. As if
the person here wants you to see you cant have what they got.

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He wasnt lying. The door entrance was long, but the warm air was bliss. I didnt mind
the walk. Ralicks expression told a different tale. Poor guy, people like Ralick were like dead
souls out here. Beings that are non-existent was what one super-rich man I knew called them. I
scowled at the thought.
Ralick and I reached the seemingly unreachable door to the mansion. The giant door, a
golden monstrosity that shouted money, opened on its own, and my eyes couldnt believe what I
saw before me. We stepped into a beautiful foyer; I felt the heat from that billion-dollar furnace.
In the front of the foyer stood a giant dry-ice sculpture, a man with four arms, apparently
representing some Indian god or something. Beyond that, numerous guards stood around and
lounged on couches and chairs, drinking wine and eating cocktail shrimp. The heat felt pretty
good after being in the cold for so long, but that was beside the point.
The scene before me played out as if reality outside wasnt happening, as if nobody was
in trouble, nobody was out there dying, no serial killer out there doing God knows what to our
children, to my little girl Lane.
To put the icing on the cake, I took a few steps forward and saw some of the men from
the team Id been with earlier, Chris, Devena, Akin, and Russell, standing, sipping on something.
I walked up to them and got a good whiff of what they were drinking. It smelled like French
vanilla coffee. The five of them looked at me with smiles of relief. I clenched my fists. My heart
pounded. You stupid bastards, our kids are still missing.
Devena looked at me with disbelief and shame, but Chris and Russell remained calm.
Nice to see you again, too, Zim, Chris said, eating and drinking an unholy combination
of shrimp and coffee.
What the hell is all of this, Chris? Did you find the kids?

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He shook his head. No, not yet.

Digging my fist into my love handles, I stood in the middle of the foyer and frowned.
Really?
Chris finished his disgusting last fragments of shrimp and coffee. We had to regroup
back here after we made it out of that cave.
I also decided to reconnect here, Akin said, after I found something interesting in the
middle of the woods.
I looked around the place, then pointed at Akin. You were the only one who made it
other than the rest of us who went in the caves? What about Jim?
He made it out, Akin said.
I blew a sigh of relief.
Yeah. Hes sleeping in the recovery room on the main floor. Still pretty out of it, so I
wouldnt go see him just yet.
I nodded, then turned away from him and shut my eyes tight. Uhhh, oh God. How in
your holy name am I going to break all of this bad news to the family? I couldnt believe how
messed up this whole thing had gotten. We knew the risk when we went out to find my sweetie.
We did what any man should have done. I just hoped all this death so close to home didnt end in
vain.
I turned back around to face Akin and the others. Zim, Chris said. Hey, please make
yourself comfortable. Were going to my office to see what Akin found in the woods. Maybe itll
help us with our search.
Seriously? I said. How can I get comfortable with all of this happening?

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Chris frowned and looked at the ground, almost in shame. He looked back up and exuded
a sense of confidence. Try. Just try, okay?
Before I could say anything, a large man came up to Chris, dressed in black and sporting
a holstered pistol on his hip. I figured him to be one of Chriss personal guards, as most superrich folks had a squad of those things.
Sir, the man said, what do we do about the homeless man? He reached toward
Ralicks arm.
Ralick grunted something under his breath and pushed the guards hand away. Hey, my
name is Ralick. He spit it as much as said it.
Ralick was still pretty hot about everything he saw around him, and by the look on his
face, I could tell that touching him wasnt a good idea.
Chris could see it, too. Escort him to one of the spare rooms where he can rest.
Ralick cut his eyes at Chris and the guard, but then looked at me, as if he wanted my
approval to go. I nodded, and Ralick went with the guard.
Where did you find him? Russell asked me.
He found meand saved me, not to mention. I gave Russell a dirty look.
Now, calm down, Zimmery, Chris said. We were trying to find you, but we had to get
back to the mansion to regroup and resupply.
Plus, Russell said, we heard reports of a huge blizzard coming in. So we couldnt stay
out there for too long. Hell, we barely even found Devena. We looked for you for a while, then
decided we needed to get back here, like Chris said.

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I shook my head and noticed I hadnt seen Fred or Bob. I assumed that Devena told them
what happened to Spacey and Cody. I was curious about the Fred. Not so much Bob, though.
Part of me prayed that Bob didnt make it out of that cave.
What about Fred? What happened to them? I asked.
The group shook their heads.
Fred is dead, Zim, Russell said. Disappeared into the snow and we never saw him
again.
Well, what about Bo I heard clomping footsteps come down the red carpeted steps
that led to the upper floors.
It was himBob, drinking what appeared to be white wine, having no problem living the
good life in the midst of this nightmare. Bob didnt look too happy to see me, either. Hrmm,
Bob grunted, no doubt hoping I was dead in the snow somewhere.
Well, since we all have finally met up, I guess we should head upstairs, Chris said.
Unless you need something to eat or drink, Zim?
I shook my head. Lets just get back to work finding the kids.
Everybody headed for the stairs, but Devena came up to me. Hey, Zim, she whispered.
Im so glad to see somebody here I can trust. She nodded, rubbed my shoulder, and went ahead
of me up the stairs.
I stood there at the base of the staircase for a moment. Why did she say that? Was there
something else going on here? To be honest, I felt the same, but I, too, was happy to see Devena.
Out of everybody remaining, she mightve been the only person I could trust. Maybe Akin, but
hed disappeared for so long that I didnt know what to make of him yet.

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After we all walked upstairs, we entered a large office room filled with pictures of
Chriss family and friends. I saw a picture of his wife and missing son. I couldnt remember the
boys name, but I knew that it was him. I also saw a slew of trophies and awards on the top shelf.
Whatever Chris did, it had made him rich beyond words.
Along with these displayed pieces of egotism were multiple computer screens, all with
satellite codes on them. I could tell because we used those same codes when Id been in the
service. I saw a comlink phone sit on the desk next to the virtual computer keyboard, and I only
hoped that Id get a chance to use the phone sooner than later.
Akin stepped forward and plugged his camera into the USB slot on Chriss computer. We
all gathered around.
Akin brought up the image. I took a short video of something from a far distance. It
looks like someone or something was moving in the snow, but I couldnt make anything of it.
With her arms folded, Devena threw her hands out and shrugged. Uh, okay. So how is it
supposed to help us find our kids?
How many things you know can walk in the snow without it snatching them up?
Bob gestured his palm toward the screen. Well, maybe it was a bear, like in the cave.
Akin shook his head. I dont think so. Bears are usually in hibernation during this time
of the year. Those bears that Devenas group encountered in the cave woke up because they
woke them. Also, those caves are located pretty far to the south of where I took this photo, so it
couldnt have been.
Well, maybe it was a wolf or some other animal.
I grunted, sick of the guessing of the game. Just show us and lets see what it is.

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Akin put a still of the video on the computer monitor. It was indeed far away, and I could
barely see what it was. We all squinted at it.
Uhh, so what is that? Russell asked.
Pfff, Whatever. That aint nothing, Devena said. So much for this shit. She turned
away from the monitor and walked to a window to look outside.
I noticed, though, that Bob kept staring at the picture, and it looked like something caught
his eye. Yeah, his right eye twitched a bit.
This garbage video. It aint getting us anywhere, Bob said. He turned and walked out of
the room.
Wait, I said to Akin. Is there any way you could use your satellite uplink to zoom in
on the image? Once you do that, you could clear it up with an aero program. I guessed that
Chris had this program because of the computers in his office.
Chris shook a finger at me. Thats a good idea. Akin, see if you can zoom in on the shot
and clear it up for us.
Akin pursed his lips. Ill see what I can do, but itll take awhile. This is a camera shot
that wasnt uploaded from a satellite. Ill have to work with it.
Devena leaned forward to look at the video still again. Just do whatever you have to do
to help us find our kids.
As Akin began to work on the video, we all walked out of the room.
Well, Chris said, since were going to be here for a while, I suggest that you all try to
get comfortable. Ive had my housekeepers and butlers prepare food and rooms for you to stay
for the night.
What about Ralick? I asked.

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Already in his room. Not far from yours.

I nodded, and I was tired, but I still had many questions, far too many. My body, though,
told me to rest up. I learned in my old age. Id better start listening to that voice in my chest. I
almost died out there from a heart attack, but before I could go to bed, I wanted to check up on
my family. I knew Chris had connections to the forced satellite comlinks for mobile devices,
because Id seen the phone in his upstairs office. That comlink could bypass the shutdown of all
electronic devices and reach anyone he or she wanted, as long as their cell phone was on.
Chris, I said, you got another one of those comlink phones? I want to check up on my
wife and kids.
He nodded. I have them all over the mansion, each with a separate line. You can use the
phone in your room. Room 305 on the third floor is yours.
Thanks.
But you should hurry before the blizzard gets here. Once it arrives, its lights out for my
phones.
I nodded and headed up the stairs. Chris pulled out his personal comlink phone. Why no
one out in the woods knew about it was beyond me, then again, Id play that card close to the
chest, too, with a bunch of strangers and our kids missing and the Snowoman on the loose. Chris
dialed someonehis wife, I figured. Hey, listen, its me. I know we had a rough patch, but are
you okay?
By the way he introduced himself and the tone of his voice, I knew one of two things
about their relationship. They were having a moment in their marriage like Daphne and I were.
Or they were already divorced and he was only calling her about their son. I could only pray that
Daphne and I didnt get to that point. Chriss conversation with his wife or ex-wife faded as I

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walked upstairs toward my room. On the third floor, expensive drapes hung down the length of
the hallway, along with marble moon floors fit for a king. As I passed several doors looking for
305, I saw several of the other men doing what I had in mind, calling their loved ones with
Chriss special phones.
First was Russell, who had quote-unquote step-twins. Their names were Alex and
Alexis, or something like that. I assumed he was talking to his girlfriend. It didnt sound good
from what I heard. Russell stumbled over his words. Hmm, I remembered an old trick from my
special ops days. I could log into a number that would allow me to tap phone calls.
I hurried toward my room to swoop in on the others conversations. I wasnt deliberately
trying to be nosy for the sake of being nosy, but I learned from my training days, you never truly
know someone until you get up all in their business. Id never forget that. I couldve done the
same with my wife Daphne in the past, but the difference between her and these guys was that I
trusted herat least I used to. Before this was all over, I knew that might change, big time.
I jogged to my room down the long hallway; Devena was on the phone in another room. I
looked forward to listening in on her conversation. This would give me a chance to get to know
her much better. I trusted her more than any of the others, but I wanted to use this opportunity to
increase that trust. I saw Ralick two rooms down from Devena, so I slowed down and looked in
on him. He was gazing out the window as the snow fell against the dome.
His face looked so sad. Was he thinking about his familyif he even had one? He caught
my eye and nodded. He mustve known that having a warm bed to sleep in wasnt going to last
long. Or maybe it was something else. I didnt know. He sat on the floor, turned off the lamp,
and lay down to sleep right there on the floor beside the king-sized bed with the pillows and firm
back-healing mattress. I sighed and proceeded down the hall.

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The next room was already shut, and it was different from all the others Id seen so far. It
was black, and the lock on it had a key code. Whatever was in that room, it mustve been
important. I didnt care. It was Chriss house.
At the next room, though, I stopped and heard a voice behind the door, and it was all too
familiar to me, my local, unwelcomed enemy, Bob. I could tell he was on the phone, unless the
guy was crazy, talking to himself like before. I wanted to hear what he was saying, so I rushed to
my room.
It was much like all the others I had seen, a king-sized bed, a writing desk with a comlink
phone, a walk-in closet, and a chair. As soon as I sat on the bed, the marshmallow mattress
nearly took me to heaven. No, couldnt give in yet. I picked up the phone, wanting so bad to tap
some calls, but my familys safety came first.
I called Daphne first. It rang through, but went to voicemail. I called again, but still the
same. I must have dialed that number like twenty times, hoping shed get annoyed and at least
answer it if she was able to, but she didnt.
Maybe ... maybe the snow gotno, I didnt want to lose hope. She was at her moms,
safe. I left her a message. Hey its me. Listen, babe. I love you and no matter what happens, Ill
always love you. Im sorry. Please, forgive me, please.
Next I called the phones of my two sons, Zach and Micky. My calls, though, went
straight to their voicemail. After ten tries between their phones, I left messages for each of them.
Crap, I cant believe this.
I waited a few minutes. Nobody called back. I knew this comlink system worked, but
maybe the blizzard already hit that side of Scranton. I put the phone down and took a deep breath
to calm myself. If the blizzard started, I figured that I wasnt going to hear from my family for a

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while. I hoped for the best and prayed they were alright, especially Lane. I shook my head again
and slammed my fist onto the bed, but my chest ached a bit. I took a few deep breaths and
sighed. Okay, theyre okay, Zim. Take it easy. Okay, back to the phone taps.
I took the phone apart and searched for the black and red wires. I pulled out my miniature
multi-tool kit and used one of the blades to cut the wires and rewire it so I could listen in to other
calls. It would be a hit and miss as to whom Id find on the other end of the line, though.
The first person I dialed into ended up being Russell. I could tell because of his Cajun
accent. He was talking to a woman named Janet, and it seemed as she wore the pants in the
relationship. She sounded strong and came off very forward with Russell. Poor Russell was
ripped apart from head to toe.
Look, Janet, Russell said. Im trying my best, but this takes time. I love your kids like
they were my own, but after all thats happened you have to trust
Shut up, Janet said. Im tired of your excuses, Russell. All you do is make up excuses.
When we got together, when we got married, you told me you were going to be better than my
ex and provide for and protect both me and my kids. Now were you lying when you said that? Or
did you say that to get what you wanted from me?
No, Janet, no. Look, if that was the case, I wouldve gotten that, which I did before we
even got engaged, and left you. But I love you and Alex and Alexis.
Then why arent you trying harder? I sent you the number to contact Chris so you can
use his resources to help get my kids back.
But, sweetie
No, dont sweetie me, you worthless ogre.

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Ah. Uhh, okay. Ah, look, Janet. Im sorry, but you have to listen to me. The problem is
the weather. I mean, the snow is trying to kill us, for God sake. Do you have any idea how hard
that makes everything? Especially when theres a deranged child rapist out there, taking kids and
taunting you with figurines of snowmen.
What? A child rapist?
Oh shoot.
Wait. Wait, wait youre telling me that my son and daughter were taken by the
Snowoman? The Snowoman has my babies?
Oh hell, Janet, no. I mean, we dont know for sure. We just know shes in this area.
And when? When were you going to tell me?
Um, kinda like never. I didnt want you reacting like youre doing now. We just dont
know, baby.
Thats it. Im sick of you. You better find my kids, and you and that no-good Chris
better work your rears off to do it. If you dont, Im suing him and divorcing you to marry your
brother.
Wait, my brother George? Why would you do that? You never even met him.
And thats what we both wanted you to think. I didnt want to hurt your feelings because
youre so pathetic. I dont know what I saw in you. In fact, thats why I gave you Chriss
number, because I knew you couldnt do this on your own. And you still cant do it with him.
Wait, Janet. Please dont divorce me. Youre all I have. Youre all I ever had.
No, Im sick of you. You know something? Chris may have been a cheating egotistical
jerk, but at least he got the job done.

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Well, apparently hes not doing the job too well when it comes to finding your
children.
Are you raising your voice at me?
Russell didnt answer.
I said did you raise your voice at me?
No, sweetie, uh, I mean Janet, no. Im sorry.
Transfer me to Chris. Im through talking to your sorry self.
Okay, Ill try. Sorry, Janet, I love
Russell finished his sentence to the sound of an empty dial tone. Man, that was some
good quality drama. Something out of a soap opera. It sounded like Russell, Janet, and Chris had
some past connection. Maybe I could get lucky and tap Chriss comlink line next.
I rewired the connection again.
Jackpot, Chris.
I listened for a few seconds.
Hmm. Talking to another guy, but not a voice I recognized.
So did you get the papers? Chris asked.
Yeah, they were around the corner, the other guy said, but it shouldnt be a problem in
the future. How goes the search?
Not good, but Akins got a clue, I hope. And I hope that sick piece of
Dont worry. As soon as you give me a location, Ill handle it from there on out.
No, I want to handle this myself personally.
That is ill-advised, Chris. The Snowoman is dangerous.
Not to me.

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Youre not thinking straight. Youre thinking out of instinct and rage, not rational
intelligence.
Dont talk about how irrational my intelligence is. Ive been rational until my son was
taken by that perverted, demented psycho. How is it no one can track her and kill her?
She uses the snow to her advantage and attacks only when there isnt a potential threat.
Shes smart.
Almost as smart as usughh, I mean, you?
Heh, yeah, well, not quite. When I find her, she wont even know what hit her.
Hmm.
What is it?
Someone else is trying to contact me on this line. I hope its not that tramp calling about
her kids.
Dont you mean our kids?
Heh, I guess.
I can take care of that, too, if you want me to.
No.
Hmph, fine. But once the Snowoman is found, dont do anything until I arrive.
If she has my son, I wont just sit here and wait for you to pop up. Im going to save
Johnny.
What about the other kids?
Thats what their fathers are here for. Its enough that Im providing them with this
much.

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The Snowoman is going to have a field day with them. This whole thing with her
leaving clues and taunting them and you is all part of a bigger plan.
Uh, I guess it takes a serial killer to know a serial killer, huh?
Isnt that why you hired me? Im the only one out here crazy enough to do this. The
government wont.
I know, and as much as this pains me to say to you, I appreciate your assistance.
No need for that. Were practically the same. Speaking of hiring me, do you have my
payment ready?
Yes, its locked away nice and tight.
Good. Ill be by there to pick it up after the blizzard blows over. Once thats complete,
killing the Snowoman and saving Johnny and your wealth shouldnt be a problem.
I hope youre right. I dont think I can hold out much longer with this. Johnny is the
only way the company will stay afloat over MicroTech.
Are you going to talk to the tramp now?
No, her giving Russell my number was enough. When Johnny is safe, then the twins will
be, too. Contact you later, and when this is over, try not to hold the grudge anymore.
I wouldnt be me if I did that. But for you, Ill comply.
Both hung up, and I put the phone back into its cradle, wondering what the hell that was
all about?
It was a bit uncomfortable listening in on that conversation between Chris and God
knows who, but still.

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Seemed Chris was having more than just family problems. He was talking about saving
his company from MicroTech and all that, and he had plans for the Snowoman when he found
her.
What gave me the itch was the whole payment thing. Who was he talking to? Wait.
Was the payment behind that black door with the key code on it? It had to be. What was
in there? I honestly didnt have any idea; maybe I didnt want to know. The guy said he was
coming after the blizzard blew over. I hoped, whoever he was, he could help us. He sounded
pretty confident.
Hmm, Chris also said something about, It takes a serial killer to know a serial killer.
What the hell was he talking about? Also, the phrase he used later, Try not to hold the
grudge anymore. Weird way to word it.
Id have to check all that out later. I looked out the window; it got a lot darker, and the
snow had gotten heavier. I closed my eyes for a few seconds and rewired the connection. Who
could I get next? Bob perhaps. I listened in, but I couldnt tell what anybody was saying.
The voices sounded raspy and harsh, like they were speaking a different language. It
sounded German. The only thing I could make out was I love you, Todd. I knew a little
German from my early Marine days, but not enough to listen in on a conversation over a phone.
I hung up and rewired the connection again. This time, I recognized Devenas voice.
Really, I promise, Denise. When I find Pam, were all going on vacation and ridding ourselves
of this nightmare. And Im going to listen to you, so were moving to a warmer place where
theres no snow. Tell me where you wanna go. Ill quit my job at this lousy company, take my
pension, and retire early, just you, me, and Pam. Okay?
You promise me, Devena?

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I promise, and I love you so much.

I love you, too, sis. And please, Devena, be careful.
I will.
And they too, hung up the phone.
Well, I guess I really could trust her. She sounded so compassionate. Itd been a while
since Daphne sounded that caring.
I didnt hear much of her conversation, but from what I heard, Devena was the only one
here I knew with a shred of honesty in them. When she said this lousy company, I figured it
was the unnamed company Chris mentioned, since I knew Devena worked for him.
Devena, wow, what a woman.
I hung up and was ready to rewire the phone again, but then it rang. I couldnt believe it.
Was it my boys? Was it Daphne? I snatched up the phone and answered it.
Hello?
Dad? Dad?
Oh my God, I whispered. I couldnt believe it. It sounded like one of the boys. Micky,
Zach, is this you?
Yeah, its me, Zach. Here, Dad, Ill put you on speakerphone. A pause, then, Yeah,
its us, Dad. We got your phone call. We couldnt believe you reached us. I thought the
government shut down all phone services?
I tried to answer, but I choked up.
Dad, hello? Shoot, I think were losing the signal.
I swallowed hard and held back my tears. Im here, son. Im here. I just ... Its so good
to hear your voice, both of you.

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You, too, Dad, Zach said.

Yeah, Dad, Micky said.
But how did you call us? Zach asked.
Oh, I met some guys who got access to a few satellite phones.
Satellite phones? What guys? Zach asked.
I shook my head. I didnt want to go into too much detail, not now at least. Uh, Ill tell
you later. What about your mom? Did you ever hear from her before they cut the line?
Did we hear from Mom? Isnt she at the house? Micky asked.
Uh, long story, son. She went to your grandmas house.
Oh.
Theres that, Oh, again. My sons knew what the deal was whenever Daphne ran to her
moms house.
Is she alright? Zach asked.
Yeah, shes fine, I said. I didnt know if she called you guys before everything was
cut.
Oh, no. Youre the only one to reach us.
Where are you guys? Still at the store?
Yeah, the grocery store, with a bunch of other people. But were safe.
Thats good. Listen, boys. You may to have to stay at that store for the rest of the season
and use the emergency provisions there.
I heard nothing but dead silence; I knew that didnt sit well with them.
Listen, hello?
Were here.

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I sighed and blinked through my tears. Zach, Micky, I know you two can handle
ourselves.
Why cant you get us?
Trust me, boys. A lots happened. Its safer at the store.
What happened? Did Auntie Nancy and the others make it to the house?
Nancy. I squeezed the phone handle and paused. I sure didnt want to tell them about
their little sister, nor about their auntie. They did. Theyre at the house. Listen, Ill explain later,
okay?
Okay, Dad.
Yeah?
Sorry we didnt get back in time, Zach said. The emergency broadcast about the
shutdown came so fast and so early we couldnt get out in time. We couldnt call you either
afterwards.
Its okay, son. I was asleep when the broadcast was announced. Im just glad you and
your brother are okay.
Did you talk to everyone else, then? Zach asked.
No, not everyone. I couldnt.
You didnt try their cell phones? Micky asked.
No, no one is answering.
Well, did you try Lanes cell?
I stood from the bed; a slight chill came down my back. What? What do you mean?
Lane doesnt have a phone.

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Uh, yeah, uh, Mom gave her one, like, months ago when you were gone, in case of an
emergency. Mom didnt want you to know because ... didnt want you ... argue with her.
Shoot. Our connection got choppy. The blizzard. Give me her number, quick.
I prepared my mind to stick the digits deep inside my cranium. Zach started to give me
the number, but his voice kept fading in and out.
Say that last number again, Zach. Hurry, before the blizzard drowns you out.
I heard static.
I ... kis, this ... shsssussh, 093, Zach said.
Okay, thanks. I love you guys, alright? Ill see you all soon, okay?
Love you ... oo ... ad.
Their line went dead.
I dialed Lanes number. My stomach buzzed and my hands had multiple seizures. Sweat
poured from my face. The phone rang and rang, then I heard my little girls voice. Hello there.
Lane. Its meDaddy.
This is Lane. Well, hee-hee, its my phone, not me. You can leave me a message and
Dammit, her voicemail.
I ended the call. I actually got to hear that cute, innocent voice from a little girl who no
sane individual could ever bring himself or herself to hurt, but this was no sane person I was
dealing with. This was a woman who used the winter season as a weapon against children, even
though it was a time that kids should have played outside, snowball fights, snow angels. No
wonder the snow came alive and was angry at us humans. It was because of people like the
Snowoman that families all over the world suffered.

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I turned on the speakerphone feature and dialed Lanes number again. Still no answer. I
tried again and again. I tried fifty times more. I wanted to hear my baby girl so bad. As much as I
enjoyed listening to her voicemail, I wanted to hear her in real life.
Please, let somebody, anybody, pick up this stupid phone so I can save my Lane.
Someone picked up. My prayers were answered. Praise the Lord.
I couldnt wait to hear Lanes voice. Hello. Lane? Its me, Daddy. Are you there, Lane?
Nothing. I sat there, looked down at the phone and waited to hear something.
Hello? I said.
Still nothing.
Lane? If you can hear me, please answer me.
Slow, loud breathing occurred. My heart stopped, and my throat closed tight.
Who is this? I asked.
This is the Snowoman.
I almost dropped the phone. The sound of her voice quaked through my spine. I couldnt
believe I was talking to this lunatic. I was on the phone with the creature responsible for the rape
and murder of countless children and several men.
I cleared my throat. Wheres my daughter?
She didnt respond.
Where is she? I said.
Oh, you calm down. Shes here with the rest of the kids. And were all having a good ol
time, arent we? Pam, Alex, Alexis, Johnny, R Junior, and Lanemy sweet, precious Lane.
Her voice sounded a bit British, but with a touch of evil, cold and dark like the blizzard
coming in. I couldnt tell if her voice was so creepy because of the signal fading in and out, or if

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thats just how she made it sound. Nor could I tell if she was raising her voice at me or
whispering in my ear. Either way, I didnt like it.
If you do anything to my little girl, Ill end you, I said. So help me God, Ill find you
and end you.
Oh, like how you ended your argument with Daphne? Or the lives of those children in
Africa, Mr. Mac?
My breath caught. How did she know about all of that? Who was this woman?
I know a lot of things, Mr. Mac.
Whawhat?
I know about Micky and Zachs trip to the grocery store. I know about your time in
Mexico. I know about Carl, about your weak mom and your daddy issues, your friendsthe few
that you have. And yes, boo boo, Africa.
Without a conscious thought, my hand made its way up to my mouth. Could she read my
mind? The wind outside grew louder and louder. The windows in the entire mansion shook. Not
even the dome that protected this place was strong enough to hold out the raging cries of the
blizzard coming in with a vengeance. My body got tense. It was like the Snowoman and the
weather were working together to scare me, and it worked.
How do you know about all of that? I asked.
Oh, Zimmy. Iknoweverything. I watch all of my prey closely. It helps me get my
glossy white hands on their sweet bottoms, if you know what I mean.
You sick bitch. I dont care if you are a woman. Ill rip your freaking head off if you do
anything to my girl. You sick

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Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know I am. Dont worry about finding me. I like what Ive seen
from you so far, coming all this way to save your daughter like a real father should. I think Ill
head over to meet you and the others, too. Yeah, yeah, I think thats a good idea. Anyhoo, Im on
my way. And, hey, happy winter. Its gonna be a jolly good time.
She hung up. All I could do was stare at the floor.
Lane, she has her. That bit
I got up and turned toward the door.
I need to
The door was wide open, and I jerked back at what was before me. Chris, Devena,
Russell, Akin, and even Bob stood at the entrance of my room, faces showered with horror. How
did they know?
I looked back at the phone and shut my eyes. Damn, I never rewired my phone back to
normal; the last person I tapped could hear my own outgoing calls.
Devena stepped forward. She pursed her lips and nodded at me. Let her come, she said.
Devena walked through my door and pulled a machine gun off his shoulder. Akin followed him
in and threw me an assault rifle. The rest of the guys carried weapons at the ready, as well.
Dont care what or what arent between that maniacs legs. Shell get what shes coming
here for, Devena said.
I nodded and cocked my machine gun.

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Chapter Eight
January 5, 2050

The next morning, the blizzard struck the peak of the dome like a hammer smashing its
way into our safe haven. All we could do was wait for the day the Snowoman arrived. My
demeanor was calm, but the blood under it fumed.
Most in the group had shed some of their gear, including me. I took off my animal fur
and nitro coat and left it back in the room. Devena had done the same with most of her gear,
ridding herself of her nitro coveralls for the time being.
She paced along the hallway, eager for the arrival of this psycho more than any of us.
How? she said. How is it that this woman, this creature, has been able to do this for all these
years without ever getting caught? Out of all the famous serial killers who had ever lived, not
one of them ever got this far for so long.
Is she really a ... girl? Russell asked.
Of course she is. Kind of question is that? You heard the conversation.
I pursed my lips and dropped my head, still groaning over that embarrassment.
What if shes a looper?
A looper? Devena said with a raised eyebrow. That wasnt a looper. Even with a
feminine voice, loopers still got that lurking man voice in their speech. Naw, she was a real
woman.
Russell shook his head. Man, I mean, if she does come what then?
Whatd you mean, what then? We make her give us our kids back.
By killing her?

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Aint that the point?

Russell rubbed his chin and grinded his teeth. I mean.
What?
Well, shes a woman.
Devena shrugged. So? That gives her the right to do all the things shes done?
Well, no, but, I mean, should we kill her? All of us guys could pin her down and give
her to the cops.
Devenas eyes widened. She approached Russell and pointed her fingers toward the floor.
As she spoke, her fingers gestured up and down. This chick is different. You heard about the
murder in New Orleans? She split an eighteen-year-old bodybuilder Devena held up her arm
and flexed biceps the size of freaking melonsanus, the anal cavity, in half.
Russell and several others in the group, including myself, tightened our butt cheeks.
Yeah, I remember that story. It was the one that put her on the map.
But, oh, come on, Russell said, waving off Devena. Like I said, its a whole army of
us. Shes a woman. I mean how
I shot up from my seat, diverting Russell and Devenas attention to me. Look, this is the
2050s all right. If a man had the kind of track record this brood has, it would be no argument
whether to gun the bastard down. I dont care if its a she, a he, a she-he; it comes here. Its
giving us our kids back and its going down.
Devena nodded, then pointed at Russell. If you want to just shoot her/it in the leg, be my
guest. Ill insert the bullet in the forehead; do the world a damn favor for once.
Damn right to that.

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Russell, outnumbered from all angles, sighed and looked out the window. Its just ...
man, I know theyre some serial killer chicks out theresometimes I wonder about Janetbut, I
mean, women are supposed to be caring toward children, an emotional bond or something. For a
female to do what the Snowoman does to all those kids, that boy, during this exact time of the
year... Russell twisted his face and rolled his tongue inside his mouth. Its got to be an isolated
layer in hell for a person like that.
Russell painted that picture all too well. I didnt even want to pretend I knew what this
psychopath was thinking right now. All I knew was that, when she arrived, shed be in for a rude
awakening.
Still, some of the others looked at me with a bit of suspicion. We all ate some breakfast
and followed Akin and Chris down the hall. Russell and Devena lagged behind.
Strange, Russell said. The Snowoman answered the phone of Zims kid, but not the
rest of ours? Whats up with that? You all tried calling your kids phones a couple of hours
before Zim got here, right?
Chris shrugged, and a few of the others nodded.
I called it about fifty times in a row, I said. Maybe she got sick of it?
Lets just gear up so were ready, Chris said.
Akin led us into a room stashed with weapons. We loaded up, but Bob got most of the
toys. Hey, man, stop hogging everything, Devena told Bob.
Soon enough, we each had all the gear we needed or wanted, so we got together in the big
foyer of the mansion. Just off the foyer, Chris showed us a small room with a wall of monitors
with views from all over his property. If the Snowoman came, she wouldve had to been a ghost
to avoid being picked up by a camera.

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I wanted to confront Bob again, but knew that wouldnt do much for the overall mood, so
I went to the one person I knew I could trust.
Devena, I said.
A stern look floated in her eye, mentally prepared for whatever outcome she faced. Tell
you this, she said. The hoe might not have a pipe, but she got some nuts. Her coming here,
with all of us here. Bold as hell.
Her attitude was off beat from what I was used to, but it made me comfortable for some
reason.
Well, Im sure she wont be as bad as that bear in the cave, I said.
Devena lowered her head, looking desponded. Yeah, I know, right. She sighed and
soaked in a few small tears with the edge of her palm.
Whats wrong? I asked.
She bit down on her bottom lip and shook her head. Zim, I never shouldve left you
back there.
Oh, dont worry about it.
No, I should know better. I was just
Just thinking about our daughter, first.
Her eyebrows stood up as her eyes widen. She exhaled and nodded. You know how to
make a girl not feel like shit, ya know.
I shrugged. Only those I like.
She grinned and flicked her fingers into the open air for whatever reason.
Its amazing you survived that attack. Did the snow attack you, too?
Tried, but I kicked it and that bitchs ass.

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Youre talking about the bear?

I nodded. Devena covered her face, tossed her head back, and laughed. I cant. I cant.
Youre so stupid. Why are you stealing my verbiage?
Hey, its catchy.
She chuckled again and leaned against the railing. Since she took most of her winter
clothes off, I couldnt help but notice her beauty and her body. She was thick in all the right
places. She wore a short sleeve shirt, revealing her smooth chocolate firm arms. Her hips and
booty made me stiff as a giraffes neck, though. She had to be around Daphnes age, late thirties
at least.
My eyes kept swerving from side to side, deciding whether or not to look at her firm butt
or the flickering blub across the hall. I tried not to look. For one, I was marriedto a woman that
hated my assand two, I didnt want to be disrespectful, but sometimes, having a mushroom tip
can be a grave hindrance, especially at a time like this. Plus, I was a guy, so it was bound to
happen.
Ahem, so how-how old did you say your daughter was again? I knew full well that she
was seven from what shed told me in the caves.
Seven, she said. Her face relaxed and she smiled. She wasisa sweet and
intelligent little girl. She looked down at the marble floor. Hm, its funny. I remember the time
when she would run around the park looking for bugs and insects to take home and care for like
pets. I told her she couldnt do that, because she would make a mess.
But she pleaded with me to let her at least put one in a jar. Heh, her favorite was the
lightning bug that would glow at night during the summer months. Hem, I cant wait until she
grows out of that phase in her life.

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Right, but then shell be a teenager and youll have to deal with that. Soon, youll be
wishing she was seven again, bringing lightning bugs into your house.
We both laughed, then some of the other guys did, too.
Lanes not a teenager, right? Devena asked.
No, thank God. Shes only six.
Six, huh? She looked down again. She sure likes to get them when theyre young and
innocent.
That pretty much doomed the mood again. A few of the other guys scattered about the
room. Chris went into the monitor room to check on the guard in there.
I sucked up the tears ready to splash down my face and pulled out the red teddy bear Id
bought for Lane. I gazed upon its little black eyes like it was my own child. I got closer to
Devena to keep the conversation private. Crazy, despite all the shit wed been through, she
smelled nice, like strawberries mixed with incense.
I-I bought this bear for Lane last year, I said, swallowing hard, then choking back tears.
I found it in the snow where we found the gear from the other kids. Man, Im so proud of her.
For what? Devena asked in a soft tone.
I paused and thought about it for a minute. I dont know. I mean, shes only six. She
hasnt been on the planet long enough to have any kind of proud moment stories. Nor was I
around that much, either. I was always somewhere else fighting. I shook my head. And this
blasted Snowoman. Only someone like her would take children away from their parents
destroy them from the inside out before they even had a life. Before their parents could even
have real memories of them. Only someone like her would take away my baby girl and

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You know. I dont think I told you that Denise, Pam, and I were trying to move to a
warmer place.
I nodded, even though Id, of course, found that out by tapping the phones. Huh. Really?
Whos Denise?
Devena poked her lips out at me. I pursed my lips and nodded. The phone tap.
Ya think?
Im so sorry.
Devena waved a hand away from me, telling me not to worry about it. Yeah, but us
moving wasnt because of the snow, but because of the company I work for, and the services
they provide.
Oh. What kind of service does your company perform?
Uh, it involves special biological materials, that sort of thing.
Does this company have a name?
No, not really, and thats the way they like to keep it. Its a private corporation that
mostly involves trading and distributing within the higher areas of the government.
Whatever that means. I could take a pretty good guess at what she was talking about.
Your uh, company, wasnt involved in the siege on the Devils Whisper weapons in
Somalia, were you?
Devena blinked and folded her arms. The Devils Whisper?
Yeah, its a toxic agent from a rare plant that destroyed a persons free will and caused
them to come under the spell of whoever spoke to them. Kion customized the agent to make their
victims, many of them children, follow specific commands: kill a general or blow up an embassy
with a bomb straped to their chest.

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Oh, shit, right, right. I heard about that mess.

I nodded. Some of our own men and women were put under this spell.
Nah, I dont know anything about that. So youre ex-military, too, huh?
I shrugged. Its not something I put out there for people to know.
Uh huh, yeah, I get you. I used to be in the Army, too.
For real?
Devena grinned and nodded. Which service?
I leaned back and glazed up at the ceiling in thought. Uhmm, Marines Special Ops, 3rd
Division.
Really? I was a part of the 9th Infantry that invaded Somalia in 2040.
Wow, I think Im in love with you.
Devenas face twisted into an awkward grin. It made a nail screw into my stomach, but
she then spilled a chuckle. I snickered a bit after. Oh, Jesus.
What an amazing coincidence, I said. So thats how youve been able to keep up with
me and the rest of us so long.
Hmph, more like you keeping up with me.
I loosened up and leaned on the side of the rail. I was more at ease with her, figured Id
dig a little deeper.
So is Denise your big or little sister? I asked.
Yeah, she said, eyes fixated on mine. Little sister. Well, my sister-in-law. Since my
husband died, Ive taken care of her. Shes helped me with raising Pam.
Okay, I remember you telling me your husband had died? May I ask, uh, what of?

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Devenas cheeks got a little red, and she looked down. An invisible bug got caught in my
throat from her silence. Im sorry. I shouldnt have
No, its okay. He died of a drug overdose. So, yeah, theres that.
Wow. Im sorry to hear that.
She shook her head with closed eyes. I leaned in closer. She didnt back away. So how
did Pam take that?
Pams not his daughter. I had Pam with another man. So, yeah, theres that, too.
Great, way to go deeper with her, Zim; however, not only were we both ex-military, but
we had somewhat similar circumstances in regard to our little girls.
God, Im sorry, I said. I
She shook her head once more and looked at me. Its all right. It was the biggest mistake
I ever made. To mess around with some guy I knew in high school, only to marry another man I
knew was the one. But instead of having a baby with him, I had it with another and hid it for all
those years.
You hid it?
She nodded. I couldnt chance it. But he wasnt an idiot. He knew it took nine months to
make a baby. She looked down at the railing and started to scratch at it. Wonder if thats why
he ODd on us.
I blew out a slow breath.
Jonas was his name. After he died, I left New York to care for Pam. I always wanted to
tell Jonas the truth. I really did. Just too scared to do it, you know?
I bowed my head and grabbed the bridge of my nose. A slight chuckle escaped my mouth
as I spread my fingers across my eyes.

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What? Devena said, looking perplexed.

No, its just crazy how similar our lives are. The only difference was my wife knew about
my affair. You know, Lane is the child of another woman.
Oh, man.
Yeah, Daphne and I split once before, but we got back together after my brother died
he was in the army, toobut my wife and Is issues got worse. Thats why I went to Africa. Just
to freaking get away from it all.
Devena stared at me with those dark brown eyes, trying to suck me into its black hole.
Shame, I said. Id rather go to war than fix my marriage and be with my family. I
frowned. Kind of father does that, huh?
Devena wiped her eyes and looked a bit more hopeful again. A father who came back to
fix it, obviously.
Phzz.
You still talk about her, about them as if you cared.
Well, I do.
Then youre doing what a father is supposed to. Youre trying to fix it.
I nodded and released a breath of air. She patted me on the shoulder, then squeezed. Her
grip was strong for a woman of her size. She caught my peering glance. Youre pretty strong, ya
know? I said.
She shrugged. Had my Wheaties.
Your what?
Uhm, its an old, old saying my grandmother used to say. But yeah, my hands and arms
arent real.

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I raised an eyebrow.
I mean th-theyre real. During my tour, I suffered severe nerve damage to them. The
doctors injected me with nanobots to help regenerate the jacked up cells. It ended up giving me
more strength than the average solider.
So youre Captain America?
Who?
I smiled and shrugged. An old hero my grandfather used to know.
She frowned at me, then smiled grimly. She tried to hit me in the chest, but I caught her
hand and laughed. Her hand was so soft, so warm. Wow, I said. It is real.
She didnt stop me from stroking her silk-like palms. I looked at her and saw her gaze
into my soul. It had been so long since a woman looked at me like that. In fact, I didnt even
remember Daphne looking at me as Devena did. Our lives, our circumstances, our personalities
jived so well.
We both even had daughters around the same age, and she came out here to save her girl,
just like any brave parent would. She was a solider like me; she understood the struggle, the pain.
She was smart, too, working for a big bio-material company. What had Daphne done? People
took care of her her whole life. From rich daddy to me, but Devena, she worked for it.
My heart banged against my chest. She stepped closer. Were we going to kiss? I wanted
to. I wanted her, even though we were still in a huge mess of a day, but I couldnt. I still cared
for Daphne. I still wanted to make it work. I had a family to save, a family to reunite. I screwed
up before, and so did Devena. I couldnt screw up again.

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That was why Daphne left me, because I screwed up. Hell, what was I thinking? What
were we thinking? This wasnt the time for this. I shouldnt have been doing it anyway. I had to
be the one to end this before it got too heated.
I let go of her hand. Devenas face went from bliss to bilious. I uh, have to go, uhm
check the monitor room with Chris. Maybe they found something.
Devena frowned with her mouth open, but then nodded. She turned away and stared into
another room. I cleared my throat and walked off, like a damn fool.
Hey, she said.
I whipped back around at the sliver of her voice.
I guess we all missed the Christmas party, huh? Devena said, jerking her head toward
the next room, where Chris still had up a Christmas tree with a pile of gifts under it.
Ehh, I dont celebrate Christmas, I said with a smile.
What, you one of those Jehovahs Witnesses or something?
No, but hey, those are some smart people.
Hows that?
They save a whole lot of money that way.
We both laughed. Hey, bud, well get our girls back, she said. And well bring that nut
down together, just you and me.
Bud? Hmm, I guess she got the message. I nodded, but the just you and me part made
me question that. Sounds like a plan to me, sister, I said.
I walked toward the monitor room slumped over a bit, but I noticed Bob staring out the
massive front picture window, watching the blizzard slam against the invisible dome. I didnt
stop to speak to him, didnt want to. He had a cigarette in his mouth; the smell on him was

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unbearable, rotten tomatoes wrapped in dear feces. I passed him by, wanting to talk to Chris
about this company Devena was working for.
Looks like you and the chocolate one are getting to know each other pretty well, Bob
said. Wonder how Daphne would take that.
And I wonder why you havent gone to hell yet.
He laughed and took another puff. I guess were both at that point, huh, Zim?
I stopped and looked. What?
He still stared out the window, watching the night sky turn the snow dark blue as it raced
at us.
Can I ask you something? Bob said. What do you think of me? Your honest opinion.
My honest opinion?
He took another puff of his cigarette. Yeah, I know what you think of me, but I want to
hear it from your own mouth.
I shrugged. I think youre a piece of shit.
I waited to see his reaction, but he said nothing and did nothing, just stared out the
window.
Go on, he said, then puffed once more.
Youre a hypocrite. A murderer. A liar. I never liked you, ever, and the only reason I
havent done anything to you is because I dont have any proof. But I know you, Bob. I know
how you treated Nancy, and the other three you beat. How is that for an honest opinion?
Is that it? he asked with a disturbingly relaxed voice.
Naw, not really, but if you want me to continue?
He nodded.

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And I think youre a racist.

He grinned at that part, which pissed me off something fierce. I grinded my teeth as he
took another puff. Oh, Im also anti-Semitic, he said with a snicker.
As I frowned, he leaned back, put his hands up, and laughed. Im just messing with
you. He sighed and looked back out the window, enjoying every puff of the cigarette. You
think you got me figured all out, dont you?
I figured out enough.
Well, youre wrongabout Nancy. I didnt kill her, but it doesnt matter what I say.
You wont believe a word, will you? He turned and looked at me. What if I told you Nancy
killed herself?
Id tell you to go screw yourself.
He giggled at the remark. Not everybody in that house is who they say they are. At least
I dont pretend. Youd be surprised who the real liar is, Zim. Bob laughed a little at that.
Oh yeah, did you feed that lie to Ron and Jim?
I fed it to Lane, too.
My eyes widened. Before I knew it, I had him by the neck and slammed his head against
the window. He cracked another laugh as he gasped for air. Im kidding. Im kidding.
Well, it aint funny, shithead.
His eyes veered behind, distracting me from his ugly smile. I turned around and saw a
guard stare at us with a rifle in his hand. I released Bob and backed off. Bob adjusted his coat
and waved at the guard. Were good. Just having a family chat. The guard glared, but walked
off. I watched the guard as he disappeared into the darkness, then hot air and a stale stench hit
my face.

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Bob took another puff of his cigarette. Ooooooo, I know what youre thinking. You
think Jim is lying to protect me. Wrong.
That wasnt what I was thinking. I was thinking about throwing him out this freaking
window, but little did he know, he volunteered information I wanted, and I wanted more, so I ran
with it. Oh yeah? So who is he really protecting? Bob laughed again. It made me sick.
Look, in the end, he said, everybody has a role to play in a grand story.
The hell was he talking about?
Sometimes people need to learn to play the part the play requires, he said. Thats what
I was trying to express to Nancy before she died. But I didnt put three holes in her chest.
Oh yeah, thats right, she did that herself.
I never said that. Your brother-in-law said that.
Be straight with me, Bob, so I can think differently of you. Be a man and tell me the
truth. Tell me everything. I looked him straight in the eye. You killed Nancy, didnt you?
He shook his head as I egged him to say the words.
You killed Nancy.
No.
Just say it.
No.
Say it.
No, no. He looked me in the eye and blew smoke into my face. No, Zimmery.
I just stood there and took it, wanting to knock his head clean off, but what good would it
do? I still didnt have proof, not to mention Chriss goons were now watching us. Whatever, I
had other things to focus on, like getting Lane back.

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Its only a matter of time, I told him, shaking my head.

I walked away. You know, Zim, Bob said. I stopped and closed my eyes, hoping this
bastard just gave me a reason. You may not have it all figured out. But Ill give you this,
though. He put out his cigarette on the heel of his shoe. You call them how you see them. And
you know what? You call them good, boy.
Boy?
I glared at him, but he didnt budge. He stared at me for a minute, then walked away. I
watched him until he faded into black.

I resumed my walk and passed the Christmas tree with all the gifts under it. I came
around the other side and saw Chris look at some picture ornaments on the tree. His sad
expression painted an odd picture with the machine gun slung over his shoulder.
Its rude to listen in on other peoples phone calls, he said, still gazing upon the
pictures.
I pursed my lips and nodded, not at all surprised that hed figured it out. Im sorry. I
needed to know whom I could trust.
Couldve just asked.
That joke actually made me smile. When Chris turned, though, he didnt smile. We
didnt leave you out there to die, Zim.
I know thatat least now I do.
Yeah, well, Im sort of glad you hacked our phones. He looked back at the ornaments.
Now at least we know shes coming here.

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I watched him gaze at the pictures on the Christmas tree, like he hadnt seen the photos
for years.
I take it that little kid in the picture there is your son, right? I asked.
Johnny, yes, thats my boy.
And the brunette? Is that
Vera, my wife.
Oh, where is she?
Not here.
I got the message, but, man, did she look hot.
Chris picked up some of the gifts from under the tree; the gifts that I assumed would stay
there until all of this came to a resolution. Soon enough, he put the gifts back under the tree,
looking even sadder. He then picked up a glass of red wine from a nearby table and walked to the
foyer, where the giant dry-ice sculpture stood, yet another useless taunt of how loaded Chris was.
Across the way, I saw Ralick looking at the giant sculpture, too.
It was tall, about twenty feet high, and it almost reached the top of the ceiling. It looked
human, but like something out of India. The sculpture held two swords and two lances with its
four arms. It was decked out with marble necklaces and bracelets. Its clothing had a lot of
diamonds and symbols all over it.
I didnt like it. The sculpture had a distasteful look to it, almost as if it was mad at the
world, just like the snow.
Chris, too, stared at it, like a man gazing at an image of God. I bought this masterpiece
from the famous artist Rajia Semumia.
That guy from India?

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Chris nodded. He made only four of these kinds of sculptures in the whole world
well, hes actually still working on the fourth. This sculpture is a representation of the Indian god
of death, Shiva.
Hmm, typical, death and cold things go good together.
Chris took another sip of wine.
Why did you even buy this? I asked. Must have cost a fortune, knowing Rajia.
Chris shrugged. Its a relatively large sum, around 600 million dollars.
At that, I heard Ralick suck in a sharp breath. His hands quivered, and a moment later he
blew past us and went into the next room. I couldnt blame him, not after hearing how much
Chris wasted on this nonsense.
It reminds me that not all things, good or bad, last forever, Chris said. Plus, it looks
good.
I pursed my lips and proceeded with the question I really wanted to ask Chris. So whos
coming to help you take down the Snowoman?
He looked at me and shook his head. In his eyes, I saw the hurt. He put his glass of wine
down on a nearby table, then a small cough escaped through his nostrils. He started to breathe
heavily again, but he grabbed the pills from his pocket and popped one in. He closed his eyes and
took slow breaths until he sighed with relief.
His panic attack spooked me much more than before. He looked like he was ready to go
ape shit for a few seconds there. He grabbed his glass of wine, took another sip, then set it back
down again. Havent you dug too deep into my business? he said.
Please, I-I-I just want to know who the help is, thats all.

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He sighed again, taking in another whiff of oxygen. Its somebody I wish I didnt have
to call.
When he said nothing more, I figured that was all he was going to say. I knew Id asked
too much already; Chris did enough for us. Besides, I may not want to know. I just wanted Lane
back. I wanted all of us to get our kids back and go home.
Hey, Chris said, are you hungry?
No. No, thank you. I dont feel like it right now. Ill get better when all of this is done.
Well, dont forget your relative Jim is in the medical room, healing from the snow
attack. I dont know if hes up yet, but you could check with the house doctor since I know
youve been waiting to see him.
I nodded. I appreciate it.
I began to walk off to see Jim, but stopped when Chris said, Have you ever been known
to hold a grudge?
I turned and looked at him. Yeah, Ive been known to hold onto a few feuds.
Hmm. Well, its been a bad habit for me. That may be why Im in this mess.
Well, dont be too hard on yourself. The Snowoman got all our kids and many others
before ours. But this time, itll be different. It will end here.
Chris said nothing; he just looked back up at the ice sculpture and gazed at the sparkling
beauty, but it was horrifying at the same time.
I hope so, for our sake, he replied and walked off.
Uh, okay, I muttered.

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The more I got to know Chris, the creepier he got. I headed down the hall to see Jim, but
not before I went looking for Ralick. I hadnt talked to him since wed arrived. I found him back
in the foyer, looking at the dry-ice statue.
Hey, buddy, I said to him. I just wanted to tell you again how grateful I am for saving
my life out there.
He didnt say anything. Didnt even move. He just stood there, like a dull doormat. It was
kind of funny seeing him like that. Ralick still looked and smelled like he hadnt taken a shower
in months, had a stale garlic scent on him. He finally looked over at me, then walked closer to
the sculpture. His big bug eyes continued to gaze at Shiva.
If any snow managed to get on this thing, it wouldnt be posing like this anymore,
Ralick said. Its simple, but smart at the same time. Can change shapes. Can make a lot of mess.
Rich people dont respect it.
I stared at him, knowing that, as a homeless man who lived in the cold, Ralick knew all
about what the snow could do. I started to think the same thing, but kept my cool, because what
were the chances that enough snow could get into the house and onto the statue to animate it?
Meh, I wouldnt worry. The bio-dome that Chris has here stretches pretty far outside the
perimeter of the mansion.
My theoretical fact didnt seem to faze Ralick. I could tell he had a hard time just being
here.
So did you get a chance to eat or take a shower? I asked. Itll feel good if you take
one. I know Im going to.
He shook his head. Bah, the water here is too hot and gold looking.
Okaaaay.

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Ralick looked at me. When you learn to survive in the presence of cold-blooded hate,
you get comfortable living with it after time.
Yee-ah, sure.
I didnt want to encourage any more of the weird thoughts coming out of his mouth, so I
walked away. In time, I hope you and everyone here learns that without it killing you. After all,
he learned it.
I raised an eyebrow at that. I didnt know what he meant or who he was talking about, but
then again, Ralick could be talking to or even about himself.
I let him swim in his own thoughts and went to see Jim, the only one of my family to
survive out here.

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Chapter Nine
January 5, 2050
9:30pm

I walked down the hall and thought about the words of that maniac, the Snowoman, with
her chilling voice which sunk to the bottom of my spine.
I couldnt shake her voice out of my head. It reminded me somehow of some voice that
Id heard years ago, only with a twisted, menacing vibe to it now. When I recalled her words
from our phone conversation, my stomach twisted itself into a giant knot of anxiety. I could only
imagine what she was doing to our childrenor what she already did.
I stopped in the hallway, and my heart acted up again. God, the thought of the Snowoman
chopping off my daughters limbs and laughing as she screamed for help made my chest pound
with fury. My mind imagined her destroying Lanes little innocent body with God knows what.
A nail, a screw, a penciloh God, I almost vomited, but I couldnt. I hadnt eaten since Id
gotten here, and it was getting to me, but I just didnt have appetite.
God, make it stop.
He mustve heard me because my imagination halted and focused on the details of my
conversation with her. I realized Id heard no sounds in the background of our phone call. No
screams, no cries for help. Only silence, and the Snowoman talked like the kids were still alive.
I kept turning the phone conversation over in my mind.
Maybe she said that to toy with my head? How in Gods name was she going to get here?
To be honest, I was a tad bit afraid to find out. What person, even if he or she was twisted, would

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use the winter to do some sick shit like this? Even worse, how did she survive in the snow? Did
she have Nitro gear? Did she wear animal skins, too?
I couldnt believe shes coming. Devena was right; she did have nuts, big ones, and they
were screwed on tight for a bold move like that.
Damn, I wished Ranger was here. I wondered how the pooch was doing out in the snow.
My mind went right back to my talk with the psycho woman. I could have sworn the
Snowman mentioned the name of another kid I hadnt heard of. Was there another dad out there
looking for his child, too?
I took a deep breath. So many things rushed through my head; I didnt know what to
focus onwhich was exactly why I needed to stop messing around and go and talk to Jim, so I
hoped he was up.
I found the room where Jim rested on a hospital bed, but I didnt see the house doctor or
anyone else. Jims eyes were closed, and I figured he was still asleep. I didnt want to disturb
him, so I turned to leave the roomuntil a voice called my name. Zim.
I turned around and saw Jim smiling at me. He was awake and looked refreshed. I could
tell by the fancy equipment around the bed hed been treated well.
Oh God, Jim, are you okay? I asked.
Yeah, the house doc said I should be able to move within a day or so. He looked away.
When the situation blows over.
I knew Rons face was running through his mind. His sobering expression hurt more than
any bullet, bear, or snow attack ever could.
Jim, Im so sorry, I never meant for this to
Its okay, Zim. I know you didnt.

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No, its not okay. Ron is....

Jims eyes softened. He turned away once more to hide his tears, but he took a deep
breath and looked back to me. It wasnt your fault.
I bent over and cried, but he caressed my hair and patted me on the jaw. It wasnt your
fault, Zimmerth. Right now, Lane is our top priority, okay?
I nodded and wiped my eyes.
A tear rolled down his eye. Ill deal with this in on my own time.
So calm and so cool. Ron was dead, yet he had a reasonable amount of control over his
emotions; it was scary. Jim was a stronger man than I am, stronger than Ill ever be.
I found out about the Snowoman call, he said, saying she was coming over for a
visit.
Oh, uh, yeah.
Jims face gleamed a little. Zim, I just knew it. The Snowoman didnt kill your Lane yet,
and maybe itll stay that way for a while.
What do you mean?
Well, by now, the Snowman would have done away with the kids. Also, she wouldnt
have answered the phone or left clues to show they were alive.
I nodded. Maybe Jim was onto something.
She has some kind of a plan, I bet. I was talking to some of the other guys about it, but
they didnt know what to make of it, either. Oh, hey, did you know that Chris and Russell both
served in the Army together, in Somalia?
I looked at him. Really?
He nodded.

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Chris and Russell were both soldiers?

Yeah, I overheard them talking about it awhile ago.
Hmm. Devena was in the armed forces too. I paused. They all served during the Kion
conflict in Somalia. In fact we all did. Me, you, Carl, all of us.
Jim nodded, then shrugged, but my mind turned it all over now. What a strange
connection this was. We all served in the military.
Hey, wait a minute. I think thats it, Zim, Jim said, snapping his fingers. I think I
know whats going on. The Snowoman has patterned her attack. Like some other serial killers,
they only go after one group of people, then move on to another after a while.
Its as if a TV show or a novel gets boring, you simply turn the channel or close the book.
Thats what the Snowoman is doing. In the past, shed sometimes only go after kids of a certain
background, whether race or social status or whatever.
Oh, and remember she would sometimes pick children of single moms only, or single
dads. When that got boring, she would go after children whose parents were quote-unquote
importantgovernors, judges, lawyers, celebrities, doctors, priests, and preachers.
I nodded. Kids of people who mattered to the masses.
It made sense.
Jim raised the hospital bed so he was sitting up. And that latest attack about two years
ago was children of cops.
I remembered all of that. First, kids of famous people and then police. It was all over the
news, even on those international stations.
Jim nodded. Eventually, she went after the kids of international figures, too. Became the
most famous woman in the world in a matter of months.

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And now shes going after children whose parents served in the armed forces.
Odd enough, those who served during the Somalia raid. Jim zoned out and nodded over
and over again as if he saw the pieces to an elaborate jigsaw puzzle come together. Yeah, thats
it, I bet. Shes looking for a challenge. Oh God. Shes looking for children of men with special
training, like you and me and Devena, Chris, and Russell.
I shrugged with my hands. But why us? We werent the only ones who served in that
war. Why us?
Jim shook his head and said nothing for several moments, then, Maybe we all just
happened to be in the same area shes hunting in this winter. The Snowoman has always liked to
travel.
It did all make sense, and now the Snowoman was on her way here, where all of us had
gathered. We were all in one place for her. Shit, it would be great to have that dog here, to help
warn us.
Hey, what about Ranger? I asked. Did he make it out alive, too?
I dont know. I never saw thatmy dog after the attack. If Ranger is dead, more than
likely a bear might have gotten him, and whos to say hes even dead at all? He might just be out
there lost.
I was surprised at how nonchalant he was about Rangers whereabouts. Hes usually
much more attentive to the needs of that mutt. With everything going on, I was sure he was just
out of it.
Wish he was here now.
Yeah. Hey, is it really true that you were tapping into other peoples phone calls?

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I could only nod. I had to make sure I could trust these people. I gave him a look to let
him know what I was really thinking, and as a psychiatrist, he knew what that look meant.
Look, Zim
Jim, you have to tell me what Bob did to make you, a Navy SEAL, lie about a murder
you know he committed. Hell, we both know it was him. The bastard even tried feeding me all
these lies when I saw him here earlier. Makes me sick.
Jim looked down at the floor. He wasnt lying.
What? Then who killed Nancy?
Jim shook his head and said nothing.
I cant believe you wont tell me, I said.
I pulled away from his bed in total disbelief, but Jim grabbed my arm and pulled me
closer. He brought his face right to my ear, and his eyes darted back and forth around the room,
like he was being watched. I couldnt tell you then. And I cant tell you nownot until we save
the kids and get these men to come with us back to the house.
What? Back to my house? Why? I whispered back.
Jim paused and looked around again. Because he wouldve killed us easily, just like he
killed Nancy.
I jumped back a little at that. So he did do it. It was Bob, wasnt it, Jim?
No.
Who else could it have been? No one else was in the house.
He said nothing and looked all around the room again. I glanced around also, just to see if
I could spot any cameras. Id never gotten into the actual monitor room, but I knew there had to
be cameras all over. I didnt see any here, though. My guess was they were hidden.

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It wasnt Bob, Zim. Please believe me, Jim said.

Then why did he say Nancy killed herself?
Because she did kill herself, Zim, she did. It mind fuqd me, too, as well as Bobs.
Youre not making any sense, man.
Please, Zim, we need help to get through this. Hes still in that house, and if Daphne and
the boys come back, theyll be dead, too.
I frowned and looked away.
To stop him, we need these men to help us, including Bobs resources.
Bobs resources? What does Bob have that we need?
Jims mouth fell open. You mean, you dont know?
Dont know what?
The necklace. I saw the necklace. Believe me, on any other day if I saw that necklace, I
would have thought it was him, too, until I saw what really happened. But Bob said he could
help us get the guyuntil you showed up and started hitting him and asking questions. Until
Lane went missing.
I shook my head. I didnt get it. How did this guy get into my house and kill someone
without me seeing it? On any other given day, Jims words wouldve been gold, but this was too
farfetched. I knew Rons death screwed him up, but he was spilling this nonsense about Bobs
innocence before we even got here. What the hell was going on? I wanted more information. I
wanted Jim to tell me who it was, but he looked scared out of his mind.
Hey! Russell said, rushing into the room. Come with me. Hurry up.
What? I said.

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Shut up, Devena said, coming up behind him. She had her gear back on, so that
explained a lot right there. And dont scream. Hell know.
What? I said again. Who will know? Whats going on?
Akin found something, Russell said. On the video. Youre not going to believe this.
I looked at Jim; he nodded and closed his eyes before lowering his bed back down.
Cmon, Russell said.
I followed him and Devena out into the hallway, running to keep up with them. Guys,
what is it and why are we running? Uhm, ahhh, Im getting too old for all this shit.
Well, you better find some of that youth in you again, Russell said. Because I think
youre going to need it.

I took a quick detour and grabbed my nitro gear and animal fur. The three of us soon
arrived at the room. Everybody else was there, nitro gear and all. The only one who wasnt
present was Bob, I noticed. Akin zoomed in on the video to show us what was on it. He stopped
zooming and cleared up the resolution. I hoped against hope that it was a clue to the whereabouts
of my daughter and the others. It wasnt. It was something worse, and it didnt surprise me.
The short video showed two men in the snow, all wearing Nitro gear. A piece of the
video looked blotted out for some reason. Before Akin toyed with the video, it looked like a
single mass earlier, but it was definitely two men.
One of the men proceeded to shoot the other in cold blood.
Fred, the Jewish dwarf, fell into the snow. The other man was Bob. I frowned and shook
my head.
Son of a bitch, Devena said.

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Didnt surprise me at all. The guy was a racist, as shown by the way he talked to Devena,
and he had a nasty violent streak with women too.
Akin zoomed in on Bob. In the video, Bob pulled out his necklace and kissed it. Akin
zoomed in a bit more and stopped when the image started to get fuzzy. On the necklace, I saw a
swastika, with the letters V.o.l.k.s.o.n engraved under it. It all started to click, and it apparently
clicked with the others, too.
Damn, Akin said. A Volkson?
So thats why Jim tried to defend that crazy ass lie, I muttered.
I could only nod. Nancy was scared of him because of that fact, and Jim got the spooks
after he saw that damn necklace. That had to be the case. The abuse and demeaning attitude
toward women, the racist comments, the German talking on the phone, it was Bob. The resources
Jim was talking about. It all made sense to me now. Bob was a member of the Volksons, a large
group of neo-Nazis believing all the major wars started because of the Jews, the blacks in
Somalia, those in the Middle East, and a whole lot of other bull.
Jim was talking in code when we were in the medical room. Oh God. What if Jim meant
Bobs men were at my house or on their way in hope of ambushing my wife and kids? What if
they were already there?
So what do we do about this? Russell asked.
I said nothing and walked out, followed by Devena. I turned and saw the rest of the group
walk out of the room.
The power went out.
Chris, Akin said. He turned on a flashlight and shined it back and forth at us.

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Im here, Chris said, breathing hard again. Akin, call all the guards and tell the inhouse electrician to check the power.
Akin gave him a glance of worry, but Chris nodded with assurance that he would be
alright.
Will do. Akin then keyed the mic on his walkie-talkie as Chris reached for his case of
pills. All units be on alert. This is a code red, repeat, code red.
I knew what this was.
The house is powered by an underground generator, Chris said as he chewed his meds.
Plus, the snow is still outside the bio-dome that protects the mansion. So this cant be the
weather.
No shit, Devena said as she checked her gun.
We all followed suit. I ran to Jims room to see if he was okay. He wasnt there. I
rejoined the group as Akin went ahead of us to the front door.
I think were about to be ambushed, I said.
Impossible, Chris said. Nobody can get inside the bio-dome without the head towers
permission.
That would make sense if you didnt have a specially trained neo-Nazi inside your
house.
Head tower watchman, Akin said into his radio. Do you copy, over? Head tower, do
you copy, over?
No answer.
Try again, Chris told Akin.
Head tower, say something. Do you copy, over? Akin said.

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Rough static came in before the reply. I hear you, gook.

What? Akin said. Who is this?
The man youre all trying to kill. The man Mr. Mac has been trying to kill since this all
started.
Bob, I said.
Ill confess. I did the Jew midget. He smelled awful, Bob said.
Racist bastard, Devena said. Come down here and take your ass whooping like a real
man.
Ill bring the noose down with me, Bob responded.
I knew you were a worthless prick, Bob, I said. Didnt think you would take it this far,
though.
Thats Bob Robert Volk to you now, Zim.
Bob Robert Volk?
Oh, damn, thats why they came all the way to rescue him. He was a direct descendant of
the Volkson family. He hid that part too well. Jezz, it was the damn 2050s and there were still
assholes like them around.
Bob laughed, then we heard gunshots outside. Akin crept up to a window and peeked
outside. Oh man, he whispered. Hell, if Akin was saying that, then we were in some huge shit.
Chris also took a look outside, then we all did. Dozens of Nitro-clad Volksons ran around the
grounds, shooting guards.
Man.
Bob had to have a strong connection to this group for them to come out in the snow to get
himand kill us.

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The overhead speakers in the house crackled, then came Bobs voice again. How does it
feel to be on the other side of the totem pole, Zimmery? He laughed yet again.
Chriss panic attack returned with a vengeance this time. As Akin went to him, Chriss
eyes filled with red. I had to keep focused on the real issue. Come down here, then, Bob, I
said. Be a man and face me. You want me dead, right. Well, lets go. Shouldve did you in
while we were in the snow, you piece of shi
The doors burst open, and Chris dropped his pills onto the floor. Men wearing Nitro coats
and skullcaps came in, shooting up the place.
Get back! Get back now! Akin said.
We all ducked down and went for cover in whatever spots we could. Akin drew their fire
off as he popped a few rounds at them, forcing them to take cover or lay low.
Devena popped up and fired her rifle, and as I rose, I saw that shed hit a few of the
Volksons. They fired back, though, but Chris and I followed up. Bullets flew everywhere, hitting
bricks and stones, plates and pictures. It was a firefight at the front entrance. The guards still
inside the house slipped up next to us and laid down more gunfire at the enemy.
Even with the guards help, though, we were outnumbered. The Volksons forced us to
move back into the foyer. They threw grenades and gas bombs, trying to force us out into the
open. The guards thankfully delivered their own heavy fire, giving us just enough cover to make
a tactical move. Devena, Chris, Russell, and I all sprinted up the stairs to get to higher ground,
the best place to be in a gunfight, or any fight for that matter.
We all took cover behind the golden marble railings of the staircase. Chris looked plenty
ticked off at how his place was being overrun by these thugs.
My paintings and my marble railings, Chris said, cost me over 23 million dollars.

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Damn, Chris, everybodys getting shot up and youre concerned about some freaking
home designs?
A second later, Akin ran up the stairs toward us. He had his semi-automatics shooting
Volksons by pointing his weapons backward as he ran upstairs, like something out of a bigbudget Hollywood movie, and it worked for him, too.
Akin made it up to us and took a knee as the guards downstairs began falling one by one.
The Volksons just had too much firepower and too many men.
We need to get to the top tower deck and close the bio-dome door that Bob opened to let
his friends in, Akin said.
Why? Russell asked. I dont think he has a whole army out there.
No, but its enough to me, looks like, Devena said.
The bio-dome is pressurized, Chris said. If the dome is left open with the blizzard
outside, itll bring in more snow than normal.
Yeah, and itll cause a huge crack in the dome, Akin said. The pressure alone will
make this house vulnerable.
I thought about what Ralick said and looked at the giant Shiva dry-ice statue. If that thing
came alive with a bunch of snow hitting it, we were screwed, and I didnt like boss fights. Was
never good at beating them back in my video games days.
Lets move, then, I said.
The five of us ran down the hall to the stairwell that led to the tower floor as the last few
guards bought us time. We approached the stairwell; a group of eight Volksons jumped us from a
nearby room.
Ambush, Akin said.

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We all dove and rolled, aiming our weapons the best we could. They fired at us in kind. I
felt a bullet graze me, and I heard both Devena and Russell groan.
You guys okay? I asked.
Our fire forced the Volksons back into their hiding place, but we were too exposed.
Yeah, just nicked me, Devena said.
Me, too, Russell said.
From ears length, a bullet blew off a chunk of wood off the chair I hid under. How did
they get up here?
Bob must have opened the back door for them, Chris said.
Akin rose and provided cover fire. Scatter, Akin said.
The Volksons burst back out of their ambuscade. I leapt into the next room to try to lure
some of them in so that I could give the others more of an advantage fighting the Volksons in the
hallway. Two of the Volksons rushed in after me, but they couldnt find me. I watched as they
searched everywhere. I was where they shouldve checked first, behind the door theyd entered
through.
Both of those idiots went inside the bathroom looking for me. I snuck up behind them
and tossed a grenade in there with them, then pulled the door shut. I dropped and rolled under the
bed. Another pair of Volksons came running into the room. Upon entering the room, the
bathroom blew up and sent both of them flying out the window. We were fighting on the second
floor, so their fall sounded loud and crunchy.
I crept back out to the doorway and saw Akin whip up on three Volksons with some pure
Bruce Lee/Jackie Chan martial arts. I watched Akin fight, and I thought of an old movie Id seen
called The Matrix. Akin was doing semi-Matrix kung fu moves off the walls and kicking the

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Volksons into the other rooms. Akin pulled out his semi-autos and popped those jokers as they
hit the bedroom floor.
Devena, meanwhile, did well holding her own against another Volkson, and Chris and
Russell shot back to back, one piggybacking off the other in excellent teamwork. We knew we
couldnt stay here any longer. Once all of the Volksons had fallen, the five of us proceeded down
the hall and up to the third floor, only to encounter another group of Volksons. The hall widened
here to form a sitting area with easy chairs and couches. Each of us grabbed the furniture and
made cover for ourselves as we fired at the enemy. We had trained for this type of combat. The
Volksons had not, so they were somewhat oblivious to what we were doing.
Chris, I noticed, kept glancing at the black door with the keycard recognition on it. He
gave Akin an old military hand signal to cover him. Akin gave him a hesitant look at first, but
Chris gave him the signal again. Akin nodded and both headed to the door. Akin kept firing both
semi guns on the Volksons, mowing them down as he covered Chris.
Chris pulled out a keycard and entered a number code. He opened the door, went in, and
shut it. Akin rolled to the next easy chair, getting closer to the Volksons. Devena, Russell, and I
heard some gunfire coming up the stairs behind us. Russell and I turned to see who it was. Two
of Chriss guards were being forced up the stairs by the Volksons below. The two guards
dropped dead at the top of the stairs. Russell pulled out a charger and threw it down the stairs. It
exploded and blew some of the Volksons off the steps.
I know this house better than yall do, Russell said. Stay up here while I attack from
downstairs.
As he took off, I wondered for a moment how this man could be so brave in a battle
against armed men, but cower before a nagging woman. Guess some are just like that.

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Devena and I kept our cover, ready to assist Akin. By the looks of it, he really didnt need
the help.
Cover me, Akin said. I gotta head up the stairs to the tower and close the door.
We werent that good at covering fast-paced Akin. I mean, the guy could take on whole
squadrons of Volksons by himself. He saw he wasnt getting too far with us covering him.
Come on. I thought you guys were good at this, Akin said.
Hey, its been a minute since Ive seen some action, man, Devena said. Give us a
break.
Akin retreated back to us to help us fight off the Volksons.
Let me head up to the tower and you stay here, I said. Youre doing a lot better job
here than we are. It was true, but I also really wanted to get my hands on Bob.
No, cover me harder, Akin replied.
Shit, this isnt going so well.
I fired as fast as I could, but the odds stacked up against Devena and me.
Hey, put your comlinks in, Akin said.
He tapped his ear, and I remembered the comlinks that Chris gave us. Devena and I both
shoved our comlinks into our ears as Akin laid down suppression fire. He nodded and took off,
and this time, he made it.
Devena and I each took turns firing at the Volksons from our cover in the hall. It felt like
I was in the military again, in Africa, in the war zone, watching after my brothers in arms.
During this momentous time, I needed a partner like Devena. My real brother Carl was never
there. He was always alone. That was why I believed he hadnt made it in Africa.

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That didnt happen to me; I stuck with my team in that fight. Where bullets and missiles
were flying over us, bombs and chargers going off, and sparks hitting the iron poles of the wartorn city streets. We were all we had there and we made it out together.
That was how it felt again in here, in this house on this floor, just on a smaller scale.
Devena was the only one I had to back me up, and I was all she had, and that was fine with us.
The Volksons tried to rush our defenses while shouting to each other in German; I heard
Akin on the com.
I made it to the tower. No sign of Bob, Akin said.
He must have jetted right before you got there, I said.
Even as I said it, I thought about how good the comlinks sounded, even with all the
raucous noise coming from the weapons around us.
Arggh, Akin grunted over the com. Man, he really put a hit on the dome control
system. He damaged the doors to the point where they cant function anymore. Shit. This isnt
good.
What do we do to keep more of these pricks from coming in? Devena asked.
It wasnt these guys I was worried about. Eventually, an army, even a large one, would
run out of soldiers. What concerned me more was what was out therethe snow. It was the
element that outnumbered us in every possible way imaginable.
We have to leave now, I said. Akin, are there any other exits?
Theres the back door, Akin said, but the only way I can take you out the bio-dome is
through the front entrance.
Oh, gee, you mean the entrance that the Volksons are blocking? I fired at the last
remaining Volkson in front of us, then shouted, Clear.

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A second later, Akin burst through the stairwell doorway carrying a hand-held triple-fire
missile launcher. Yep, thats the one.
Well, damn. The three of us nodded at each other as Akin put the launcher on his back
and pulled out his semi-autos.
What about Chris? I asked.
Hell be fine, Akin said. Trust me.
We headed toward the main stairs and fired at the Volksons running around on the third,
then second floors. Devena and I flanked Akin and fired from the sides. The Volksons had no
way of protecting themselves. We made it to the last flight of stairs and chased the fleeing
Volksons toward the foyer, where Russell was covering the entrance extremely well.
I saw him ducking and rolling between support beams, all the while dodging bullets. The
Volksons couldnt handle the tight coordination of our attacks. Even though they werent as
skilled in gun combat like the four of us, they still had the advantage of numbers and equipment.
We neared the bottom of the stairs; a couple of Volksons pulled out grenades and lobbed
them at us. Devena and I dove off the stairs and slammed into the marble floors. It forced us to
remember we werent as young as we used to be. Akin, on the other hand, showed off and front
flipped off the steps. We all took cover under support beams to the mansion, like Russell.
Come on, man, I shouted to Akin. Use that death pipe on your back.
Not yet, Akin said. Im not in a good position. Ill blow us all to kingdom come before
the Volksons ever got scratched by the debris.
The blizzard outside already started to break apart the open front entryway of the biodome, sounding like a mad mob. The cold air blew in as we fought. I didnt see any more

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Volksons come through the bio-dome entrance, which hopefully meant that they didnt have
anyone else to send in. I looked at the front entry to the bio-dome again.
This wasnt going to end well.
Akin. Shoot the missile so we can get out of here, I said. Well cover you.
No, not yet, Akin said.
The bullets coming from the Volksons got extremely overwhelming. I could feel my
heart race again. I just didnt think we were going to make it between the Volksons and the snow
outside.
Ahh fuq, Devena said. My eyes.
Sparks rained down on him from bullets ricocheting here and there.
Akin, for the love of God, trust me, I said.
No, Akin said. If I fire from this angle, Ill kill us all.
I heard a loud cracking sound and looked outside again. The bio-dome entrance was
beginning to buckle under the weight of the snow trying to get in. I figured it could sense our
rising body heat, even from that distance, because there were so many of us in one confined area.
Akin, were going to die anyway if this keeps up, I said. Trust us, well cover you.
Yeah, man, come on. We got you, Devena said.
Yeah, come on. Shoot the damn thing, Russell said.
Akin grunted. Okay, okay. You guys get into position.
Devena, Russell, and I ran for a support beam to the side of the foyer.
Ready? I said.
We fired with everything we had.
Wheres Chris? Russell asked.

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Man, forget him. Just keep firing, Devena said.

Akin crept up behind us and loaded the launcher.
Hurry up, man. I thought that thing was ready, Devena said.
Ah, I grunted.
Damn, Russell said.
Russell and I both took a bullet, but our Nitro coats, along with the padding of our
clothes, kept the wounds from being fatal, plus I had on my bearskin overcoat. Akin finally
aimed the launcher at the door. Some of the Volksons caught on to what was about to happen
and scattered like roaches. The missile fired but Akin missed, dammit. It didnt hit anybody or
anything except what it shouldnt have hitthe bio-dome entrance that was already falling apart.
The concussion wave bulldozed its way through the front doors and into the house. We
all fell to the ground, blown back by the blast. Everything shook, fell, and tipped over. The
ceiling above us crumbled a bit and drinking glasses on a nearby table shattered.
We all looked at Akin, and he looked at us like it was our fault. Maybe it was. He did say
he wasnt in a good position. I think it was just poor aiming on his part.
The wind and snow rushed in through the wide-open bio-dome entrance like a river
busting through a dam. The Volksons ran around and got snatched up by the snow, like a wave
of death plucking fruit for the harvest. The four of us took cover in a nearby room. From our
vantage point, we saw tentacles emerge from the snow, bite, strike, and impale many Volksons. I
felt like puking at the horror of it. Blood mixed with snow.
The Volksons tried to shoot at it, and some of the bullets did break up the tentacles
coming after them, but when one tentacle was destroyed, two more grew. The Volksons, grown
men, screamed in fear and agony, something Id never gotten used to.

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Guys, I said. Stay calm or the snow will be after us, too.
Hes right, Akin said. Try to maintain steady breathing, and our Nitro suits will take
care of the rest.
Devena huffed. Okay, okay, fine, but we still need to jet.
How? Russell asked. The front entrance is blocked by the snow now. No missile is
going to stop that.
Hey, where is Chris anyway? I asked Akin.
He didnt respond, too focused on the horror all around us.
Is there another way out? Akin, what about that black door? Hey, Akin!
Yes, but....
Akin. Look at me. If you dont help us, well all die in here. I know youre getting paid
to help Chris escape, but you wont get anything if youre dead, too.
He sighed and nodded.
The snow cascaded its way farther into the foyer, all the way to the Shiva statue. No.
Akin, I said. We need to move now.
I pointed at the statue.
Oh my God, Russell said.
The snow crept up and over the statue, engulfing it.
One of Shivas arms moved, followed by the other three, and wielded two spears and two
swords. The god of death was no longer a statue. It was real. The snow made it real.
Shiva was alive.
There, Akin said, pointing to some stairs down the hallway from us. We crept toward
the steps; Shiva stepped off the dais it stood on.

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Move, I whispered.
Akin led the way to the stairs, and the four of us went up to the third floor.
Head to the black door, Akin told us.
Once in front of the black door, Akin pulled out a charger and stuck it on the keyhole. We
took a step back. Akin fired at it and it blew a neat hole in the door and disabled the locking
mechanism. Akin kicked the door open with his guns pointing at the room.
Turn on the flashlights on your weapons, Akin said.
We did as he said. Akins face dripped with sweat, and the look on his face frightened
me. I hadnt known him long, but Id never seen him this tense before. Even in the snow late last
year, he never showed this kind of fear.
We stepped into the room behind Akin. Our flashlights showed nothing but a dingylooking staircase heading down somewhere. What in the hell? Where did Chris go? I glanced
over at Akin, who still looked about ready to wet himself. What was down there that had Akin so
spooked? Whatever it was, it gave me the spooks, too.
We stood there, staring at the staircase. Where were Bob and Jim? Damn. Wish wed
been able to get to him. I hoped he was okay, and Ralick, too.
Akin took a deep breath, gasping for airand gasping hard at that. We all looked at him.
Akin, you okay? Russell asked.
Akin blinked fast. Yeah, I guess Ill have to be.
I didnt know what he meant by that, but I knew it couldnt be good.
Whatever you do, stay behind me, Akin said.
In the spooky gleam of our flashlights, Russell, Devena, and I looked at each other.
Okay, I said.

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We proceeded down the stairs, into the black abyss where something awaited us,
something that not even Akin wanted to face. I could hear the Volksons downstairs screaming,
and I knew the statue was slicing them up, along with the snow devouring their flesh. So far, we
had no safe place to go.
My brother once said to me, and I think he got this from a movie or something,
Sometimes, the only way out is to go farther in. This staircase looked like it was about to take
us into a place we didnt want to go. Id heard stories of rich guys having dirty secrets locked
deep in their homes, so deep that their wives didnt know about them. So what dirty secret was
Chris keeping? Whatever it might be, I hoped it was just a dirty place for us to get out.
The way Akin looked, I didnt think that was all it was. Something felt different as we
descended. It was really, really hot.

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Chapter Ten
January 5-6, 2050

The temperature in the stairwell rose as we plunged farther down the stairs, and my heart
once again tightened up. An explosion from somewhere else in the house, upstairs from where
wed already descended to, made the dungeon rumble.
What the? Devena said.
Those sounds reminded me all too much of the days in Africa when it was wholesale
death and destruction.
Keep it moving, I said.
We knew what was going on up there, but I didnt want to think about it. Too much was
on my plate to chew and swallow already. Devena and Russell both looked worried. I think we
worried that Akin was worried. He breathed heavier and heavier, and it got hotter and hotter. I
might as well have been in an oven on a low flame. I hurried to get closer to Akin. Whats the
problem?
What problem? he replied.
Man, somethings got you wired right now.
Well, duh, were getting shot at and what not.
Thats not what Im talking about.
Well, I dont know what youre talking about, Zim.
I stared at him as he wiped his face and adjusted his rifle position. After he got himself
together, he glanced at me and caught my bilious expression. He sighed. Im getting ready for
whats about to happen, he said.

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Uhh, whats going to happen? Russell asked.

Akin took another deep breath. Have any of you ever read the story of Dr. Jekyll and
Mr. Hyde?
Russell and Devena both looked at me, but I shrugged. Yeah. I mean, I heard of it, but I
never read it, Devena said. I had no idea what Akin tried to tell us, but it was too late to even
inquire because we reached the bottom of the stairs only to face yet another door.
Whats that noise? Russell said.
We listened. It sounded like someone screaming?
Whatever happens, Akin said, dont look into its eyes. Go to the door on the other end
of the room. Dont stop moving, no matter what you see.
Uh, okay, but who was that screaming? Devena asked.
We heard someone talking on the other side of the door. It sounded like two men going
back and forth, and when the screams started back up, they sounded like those of a woman.
I didnt even want to imagine what Chris had going on down here. I think Id much
rather prefer to be upstairs than down here in this place, Russell said.
Either way, it wasnt good at all. We readied our weapons. The screams grew louder, and
the sounds of hard smacks banged against the door. With each blow came a scream from the
woman. My heart skipped a beat each time I heard it.
Akin put away his weapon and cracked his knuckles like he was readying for a brawl.
Akin turned the doorknob and we entered a room filled with red light, the screams of horror
more audible than ever. Before our eyes, a woman with long brunette hair wore a red gown, red
lipstick, maybe blood, with bruises over her exposed skin, like somebody beat her with a castiron pan; she looked dazed. As we came farther into the room, we saw exactly who it was.

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Chris?"
He talked, not to us, but no one else in the room. He paced around the room, rambling.
Okay, okay. You got what you wanted, now let her go.
Let her go? he responded to himself in a much deeper voice. I told you, I have to go
all the way if you want us to save Johnny.
You never said you would go this far. Please dont kill her.
Why not? What has this whore done to deserve another chance to live again?
It wasnt her fault. It wasnt her fault.
Then whose fault was it? Not mine. I was the one who saved us, who kept us alive.
Oh my God. I heard about enough of this insanity.
Hey, I said.
The two-talking Chris snapped his head in our direction and glared right at me with
raging bloodshot eyes. Id never seen anything like those eyes before. He looked like a
completely different person, like some force of evil lived in him.
Chris, what the hell are you doing? Russell asked.
Chris walked toward us, and as he did so, he gave the woman in the red gown another
smack in the face, a smack so loud that it echoed throughout the entire room and through me as
well.
Chris? the deep voice said to Russell. Im not Chris, not at this moment, Russell.
What the...?
Who or what are you? Devena asked.
Chris, or whoever this guy was, ignored Devena and turned his attention toward Akin.

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Why did you bring them down here, Akin? Chris asked. You know this place is off
limits.
He turned and hit the woman again. She bled from her nose and ears. I clenched my fists
and thought about what Bob did to Nancy, what I did to Daphne. No, no, Im not like him. Im
not like Bob or this man, this creature Chris revealed himself to be. Because of this, because of
me, she ran away. Another smack from Chris brought me back to reality. Enough, I said.
Chris ignored me. Akin, he roared. Why did you bring them here?
Akin didnt move an inch; terror kept him in place.
Answer me, Chris said. He hit the woman again, and this time she was ready to pass
out.
I told you to stop, I said.
I got hot and my heart thumped in my chest as I walked up to Chris. He didnt notice my
approach, though, nor cared. He pulled back to hit the woman again, but I reached out to push
him away. Zim, no, dont touch him, Akin said. When I tried to shove Chris away, I ended up
falling backward to the ground. Chris didnt even touch me, and I was already on my ass. As I
got up, a burning sensation ripped through the skin of my hands, like I touched the top of a stove.
Chris turned his bloodshot eyes toward me, and his gaze couldve eaten through my soul.
You dont know what you just got yourself into, bud. He balled up a fist and threw a punch at
me, but Akin pushed me away. Chris grunted when his momentum carried him forward and he
slammed into the concrete floor.
Oh my God, Devena whispered.
Chris put a hole through the concrete with the fist hed aimed at me. My eyes grew wider
with each second I gazed at that hole in the floor. My brain must have transmitted to me that my

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face almost suffered the same fate as the graham cracker cement. Chris snarled, leapt up, and
charged at us.
Move, Akin said.
The four of us tried to dodge and block his attacks, but Chris was much stronger and
faster, borderline superhuman, and the blows he landed hurt like someone smashed a coil brick
against me. The others, too, got hammered as Chriss blows crafted custom-made scars on our
faces.
I dodged a blow and noticed that Chriss skin turned red. He pivoted and came at me so
fast, I couldnt juke him. His fist slammed me so hard that I threw up.
A booted foot struck Chris in the chest. He flew back and landed flat on the ground. I
blinked a few times and, through the haze of the pain, Akin stood there in some kind of martial
arts stance.
Get out of here, Akin said. Take the exit over there; it leads out from under the
house.
He pointed to a door on our left. I didnt hesitate, and neither did Devena and Russell. As
we ran to the door Akin indicated, we stopped in front of the woman. Devena reached up and
tried to release her bonds.
Leave her alone, Chris said.
He leaped and tried to kick Devena, but Akin blocked his kick with a forearm.
Oh, Akin, you screwed up. You never shouldve come down here, Chris said.
It was the only way for us to escape, Akin said.
If you waited for me to come back, I wouldve taken care of everything.

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Chris jumped at Akin, but Akin dodged him. I couldnt chance that. You couldve killed
her and left us.
Hurry up, Devena said as I tried to cut the womans bonds with my pocketknife.
She has nothing to do with you, Chris said.
Akin slammed a fist into Chriss midsection and sent him reeling. Chris, you need to let
go of the past. You need to get this out of your head.
Shut the hell up. I told you not to come down here. This was personal.
Akin glanced in our direction once while Chris got himself up from the floor. Shit, I
could see why he took those pills.
Its my job, Akin said. Thats why you hired me to protect you. Not from others, but
yourself.
Russell glanced back. Akin, what the hell is going on here, man?
Go ahead, Akin. Tell them, Chris said. Since were all here and the shits hit the fan.
Let it all hang out. Tell them who I am.
Chris launched another blow at Akin, but Akin blocked it with his elbow. Urgh, hes the
Grudge.
Wait. No way, Russell said. Hes the Grudge?
Chris shook his head. Now they all have to die, too, Akin. You shouldve listened to me.
You shouldve just listened.
Hurry up, guys, Devena said. Zim, come on.
I sped up my cutting at the last of the womans bonds. Shit, this stuff was tough.
Freaking Grudge? Oh man. I recalled past stories, news bits from years ago, all about a ruthless
killer who beat people to death. The police said theyd captured him, but he died from a heart

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attack, likely due to the constant strains of anger on his body. At the time, pre-Snowoman, the
Grudge was considered one of, if not the most, violent man in the country.
Shit, Chris mentioned the Grudge in the phone call Id tapped intoWait. He was talking
to himself that whole conversation? Oh God, another whack-job?
Youre still here? Akin asked.
I looked over at Akin. He had Chris in a headlock. Zim, go now.
I finished cutting the bonds, and Devena, Russell, and the woman fled.
I wanted to help Akin, but at the same time, I wanted to leave so I could live to get my
hands on Bob and the Snowoman. Cmon, Zim, Devena said.
I couldnt just leave Akin, but what choice did I have? Akin and the Grudge continued to
fight, the two of them looking like something out of a video game. Punches and kicks flew, and
several bone-jarring blows landed. I went through the door and ran down a dimly lit, cramped
hallway with a dirt floor. We had to be close to the boiler room because the hot air kept rising;
big homes like this had their essential utilities deep underground. Sweat poured off me under the
bearskin and Nitro coat.
Stay focused. Find Devena, Russell, and the girl.
A loud pop came farther down the hall, along with a loud scream.
The woman again?
I slowed down and lifted my shotgun, ready to fire at whoever might be coming at me. At
the same time, my heart kept beating as if I was fighting that bear again. From around a curve in
the hallway, I heard some loud footsteps, and heavy breaths came my way. I stopped and raised
my shotgun.
It was the woman.

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She stumbled, stopped, and almost fell to the ground. Oh God, please, she said,
backpedaling away from me.
Calm down. Im on your side. I helped free you.
As she looked at my face and outfit, her shoulders relaxed. Devena and Russell must
have tried to clean her up along the way because she didnt look as bloody as before. Even with
all the bruises and marks on her face, it wasnt hard to notice her beauty.
Thats right, I said. Im here to help. Now calm down and tell me your name.
She hesitated, looked at the ground, then whispered, Its ... Vera. Vera Monicaious.
Vera, nice to meet you. Im Zimmery Mac, but you can call me Zim. I wanted to get
moving again. Okay, now, the two men who got you out, the two you escaped with, where are
they?
The two who helped me? Yeah, uh, they were heading down this way. Maybe to the
boiler room, I-I think.
Knew there was a boiler room down here.
But I-I-I think they got shot by some man. Oh God. She began to sob. Make it stop.
Please.
Shhhhh. Shhh. Its okay. Im here. This man, what did he look like?
Ah, looked like he had tattoos. A lot of tattoos was all over him.
Bob.
Get behind me, I said.
She tiptoed her way behind me and grabbed my right arm. Youre not going that way,
are you?

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I nodded. Its the way out. Plus, Ive got to get the other guysand the prick who shot
them.
No. God, please no. I dont want to go back there.
I sighed. Well, you can always head back to the red room with the psycho.
She swallowed, shook her head, then didnt say anything after that. When I glanced back
at her again and saw her up close, I recognized her from the pictures on the Christmas tree.
Chriss wife or ex-wife.
The hallway got even hotter as we crept forward. We were definitely getting closer to the
boiler room. To my left, I spotted a door marked Boiler Room. I looked ahead and saw another
door with an exit sign on it.
I stopped and turned toward Vera. Okay, look, you see that door ahead? Go through it
and get out of here.
No, she said. Oh, my God. Are you crazy? Im not going out there wearing this.
Zim, you dope. The snow will kill her in a heartbeat.
I took off my fur coat and gave it to her. The snow shouldnt bother you if youre
wearing this. Just cover yourself as thoroughly as possible.
She took the coat and looked at me. What? No, no. How do you know this thing will
protect me?
Because that thing saved me. Now go.
She put the coat on. Come with me. Please.
I shook my head. Shh. Ill walk you to the door, okay?
We walked to the door, and I pushed it open. It was still night and snowing. The biodome didnt reach this far out on Chriss property.

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Hide somewhere, or get as far away as possible, I said.

Come find me. Please. Please come find me.
I nodded. Well try. Now go.
With that, she was gone. I closed the door and backtracked to the boiler room entrance. I
opened it, thankful that it didnt creak. Inside, I found a few staircases and walkways; this room
was huge. With the animal fur off me, I could breathe a little easier. I made sure I covered all the
angles in and around my line of fire.
I stepped forward and noticed Russell on the floor to my right, writhing. Hed been shot
in the arm. He didnt see me, though, and I didnt call for him. Bob might be using Russell as
bait so he could shoot me from a higher position.
I kept my sight on the staircases and walkways surrounding me, and crept forward to
Russell. He turned and noticed me; his eyes went wide.
Zim, he said.
I put my finger over my lips; a bullet came whizzing past me, definitely from high on one
of the walkways.
I grabbed Russell by the arm and dragged him out of the firing line. I jogged to the
nearest stairs leading up to one of the walkways.
Come on out, Bob, I said, hoping to get an idea of where he was.
I didnt get a response. I went up the stairs and a body lay on the walkway ahead of me. I
crept forward and looked at the face.
What? Bob?

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A sharp poke hit the side of my head. My knees buckled and I fell to the ground; the
room became a blur. Footsteps crept up behind me. I raised my aching head and saw a dark
image hover over me like some demonic ghost.
Mr. Mac, the voice said, with an African accent. Nice to see youre in good health.
Well, as healthy as someone in your condition can be.
I tried to decipher the voice. It sounded familiar, but I couldnt quite make it out yet.
Who is this? I asked.
Hmm, to be blunt, Im the one who killed your Nancy. I killed her as you did with my
children.
My ears perked up. Your children?
You remember when you were in Africa, right? You and your unit infiltrated a weapons
cabin in East Point.
East Point? East Point? Oh God, East Point.
You killed all those kids in that cabin. Those children were my future, my soul, and you
took it from me.
My head stopped spinning, and the image in front of me became clearer. I noticed two
bodies in front of me, one standing behind the other. The one in front stepped forward and
brought his palm closer to my face. He held what appeared to be a set of dark pebbles. You see
this in my hand, Zimmerth? Its grown in Columbia and in Sennsunngeta. It comes from a tree in
my land, which produces Scopolamine. You know what that is, dont you?
Scopolamine, of course I do. That stuff was used to make that horrible weapon, the
Devils Whisper.
This son of aI knew this guy. How did he get way out here?

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I tried to focus my eyes on his face, the one thing I couldnt make out yet.
This stuff is so good, he said. For one, it made Nancy see monsters. She saw a horde
of monsters bursting through her stomach, shot herself three times just to stop it.
He waved the evil seeds in front of my face. I reeled my head back from its scent, making
sure I didnt come under its control.
How and why do you think Lane was able to get outside in the snow? After I left the
attic, I showed her, Ron, and the dog, the Whisper. Yes, it does work on animals, Zimmerth. You
were still standing around upstairs, indulging yourself in your guilt trip fantasies. Hours passed
and you didnt even know it. I watched as you stared into oblivion, allowing the effects of DRB
to you hold in place while everything around you became non-existent.
I began to see the face better, but it wasnt an African man. He was white.
They were under my control. Ron sat and played his game, and Ranger roamed around
the room as I commanded. Either of them didnt remember a thing after the Whisper wore off, a
nice feature of the drug. As for Lane, I told her to go far out into the snow and play, and she did.
Heh, only to be picked up by the Snowoman later on. I mean, what are the odds of that, huh?
Damn him. When?
When?
When did you
Oh, when? I gotcha. You remember when I insisted I come with you, right? All I wanted
was to see the look on your face when you knew you would never see your little girl again. You
remember that, dont you?
His voice was recognizable now, and his face was as clear as day. It made my eyes hurt.
Dont you, Zim, Jim said with Joseph Kions voice.

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His English had gotten better, too.

He put the seeds back into his pocket. Dont want to turn you into a zombie, Zim. You
need to be here when your death occurs. To the left of him was Devena, on her knees, with a
gun pointed at her head. Oh God, Devena. Her eyes were red and watery, and she looked like
she was under a trance. Kion mustve given her some of the Whisper. I looked back at the face of
my cousin, now with the voice of my enemy.
Jim, HoHow? I said.
How? Oh, the face? Well, Im sure Jimbo told you about that tumor he had removed,
right? Well, not only did they take something out, they put something in, toomy brain. The
surgery took place at a base camp in Somalia, right? I mean, come on, really? Thats too close to
home.
I made sure I put the best brain transplant surgeon in the country on my payroll.
Everyone in that operating room was in on it.
A brain transplant? Of course, the experiments we uncovered in Somalia. Jim mustve
got caught or something, and they, oh God.
What did you do with his
Oh, that thing is in the trash can, heehahahh. Ive been in this body for some time now. I
wanted to get to know you myself, instead of reading the reports given to me or watching the
secret videos we had of you and your family.
Videos?
Oh yeah, lots of research, heheha.
You, you bastard, I said, balling my fist.

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I hope the Snowoman takes her time with your Laneand after this, Ill take care of this
African goddess here.
Kion licked Devenas cheek, then squeezed the back of her neck, causing her to grunt.
Devena! I shouted.
Kion laughed. Devenas eyes leaped and she stared straight at me. She used the little
room Kion gave her to shake her head, signaling that she was aware of her surroundings. Good,
the Whisper wore off. I looked back at Kion and hoped he didnt catch Devena regaining her
mental faculties. He didnt.
This prick hadnt changed a bit. He still loved to boast and monologue about his assumed
victories. I figured Id use his bad habit to buy some time, until I figured out my next move, but
even more so, I wanted the truth.
So upstairs. Thats when you drugged Nancy? I asked.
He nodded.
But Bob was up there already, wasnt he? So it made sense to put the blame on him.
Just like you knew I would.
Bob knew what I was and what I was doing, Kion said. He recognized the seeds in
my hand. He was smart, but he knew better. Thats why I told himoutside the cave, Id pay
him well if he helped me kill you when the time was right.
Despite still believing I was your real cousin, he didnt argue. He took a picture of me
with this face and sent it to his crew. At this point, theyre at my disposal. But Fred spotted us.
And well, we just had to tie that knot.
So you both killed Fred, but how come we didnt see you on the footage?

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Pzzuhha, I have connections in high places, Zim, high enough to erase any footage of
me on any recording. Again, how you think I got this far? I wanted us all to head back to the
house, so I could make you watch as I killed your new friends and family right in front of you.
But after you guys found that footage, Bob got cold feet. He called his crew before that
came to fruition. We headed down here to escape the fire and the impending snow attack.
Unlocking the big black door was easy, for me at least. I didnt care for the woman we passed,
though, hehehahaeea.
That damn laugh. It made me recall the rage I had in my gut when I first met him. The
memories of Jesse and Walts death ran through my mind, along with the cold face of Nancy.
After we made it to this boiler room, Kion said, I decided that Bobs involvement was
no longer necessary. So I did the world a favor.
Right after, this psycho attacked both Russell and Devena. How long did you think I
wasnt going to find out who you really were? I said.
It didnt matter, because as soon as you did, you wouldve been dead.
Whatever, you sick I trailed off when I saw Devenas hand reach for something on
her belt. You sick piece of shit; I swear youre going to die today. You know that, right?
Hem, havent heard that before, Zim. You couldnt
Devena stabbed Kion in the arm with a short knife. She then turned and tried to go for his
balls. She only struck his inner thigh.
Kion shouted in agony and released Devena, but he shot a round at her as she ran for
cover. The bullet grazed Devena in the head, and a bloody streak came down her left temple. I
rushed at Kion. Devena fell down the stairs and dropped to the floor, unconscious.

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I let my shotgun hang loose off my shoulder. I didnt want to use my gun on Kion. At
this angle, I couldve hit an important pipeline and blown us all to hell.
A fast strike with my right hand knocked the pistol from Kions grip, but he moved faster
than I thought. In one smooth motion, he pulled out a knife and swiped at me.
I grunted as the blade made a small cut on my left cheek. Next, Kion cut the edge of my
coat. On his next slice, though, I caught his hand and stepped around him, twisted, and dislocated
his shoulder, forcing him to drop the blade.
Ah. Damn you, he said.
Kion kicked me in the thigh, shoving me back toward the railing of the walkway. I
righted myself. Kion sprinted up the next set of steps and went toward the boiler. I chased him up
the stairs. He slammed his shoulder against the boiler, trying to pop it back into place. Before he
could turn to face me, I grabbed his head.
Youre using the wrong body part, I said.
I rammed his head into the boiler. He recoiled off it and head-butted me from the back. I
saw stars and stumbled back. Kion took advantage and used his good arm to knock me sideways,
off the edge of the walkway. I went over, but I caught the lip of the walkway with my right hand
and hung on. I tried to scramble back up; Kion popped his shoulder back into place by slamming
it against the boiler again.
He screamed and took a few steps back to get himself together. He came toward me and
stomped on my fingers. As much as it hurt, I still hung on, and before he could stomp again, I
grabbed his right foot and yanked him off his feet.

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He fell down, but immediately kicked me in the face as I tried to get up and over. This
time, I couldnt hang on. I fell to the lower walkway and landed on my back, knocking all the
wind out of me.
I struggled to roll over and get up. While still on my hands and knees, Kion limped down
the stairs and headed toward me. I got up in time to block his punch. I held onto his arm and
threw a flurry of lefts into his stomach. Kion had training, though; I could tell by how he handled
himself, but he was still no match for the training Id received from the Marines.
Kion began to weaken; I rammed the palm of my left hand into his nose. I heard a thick
crunch. Arrrrgh, Kion said. I let go of his arm, and he fell to the walkway floor and crawled
away from me. I grabbed his legs and yanked him toward me, then drove a knee into his back. I
knelt on him, grabbed his head, and bashed it against the walkway.
Lets see how you like it, prick, I said. Whats your name?
I bashed his head against the walkway again. Whats your freaking name?
A split second later, a bullet punched through my shoulder. I groaned, fell off Kion, and
scooted back to get some cover from the shots coming at me. Two of the Volksons made it down
here. I grabbed my shotgun in one hand and my pistol in the other, but I wasnt in a good
position to fire at them.
Kion, though, was in a perfect position to finish me. He picked up the pistol hed dropped
and pointed it at me. He killed Bob you guys, Kion said in Jims voice.
Shit, smart move.
Kion steadied the pistol by adding his left hand to his grip. He aimed at my face and
Ahhhhhhhhhhh, Kion said.

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An arrow pierced him straight through the back and out the front of his chest; however,
he managed to pull the trigger on his pistol. The bullet aimed for my skull ricocheted off a
nearby wall and hit the boiler. I looked up in time to see the two Volksons fall off an upper
walkway, both shot dead by arrows. I glanced around and saw Ralick. He stood across the room
on one of the highest staircases, with a crossbow in his hands.
In front of me, Kion fell to his knees and flopped forward onto his face. I assumed he was
dead. For Nancy, Walt, Jesse, Jim, and everyone else you killed you Motherfu
Survival of the fittest my friend, Ralick said.
He was one level away now, heading down toward me. Are you okay?
Not really, but Ill live. You were right about the ice sculpture.
He stepped over Kion and knelt before me. Of course I was. I know the snow. I know
how it works. I know people who know people who know how it works. Thats why shes got
my son.
I eyed him. Your son?
The one who preys on the weak. The one who preyed on you, my friend. His eyes
gazed at the flooring.
The Snowoman.
I remembered the Snowoman saying on the phone a name like R Junior or something.
Before I could say anything, a loud hiss drew my attention and Ralicks, too.
The boiler, I said. I think it got hit during the shooting. We have to get out of here.
With Ralicks help, I stood. Grab Russellhes downstairsand Ill get Devena over there.
Okay.

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Shit, I could only imagine if the boiler blew, everybody was going up in flames,
including Akin and Chris. I figured they could handle themselves, especially Akin. I saw Ralick
grab Russell and one of the Volksons rifles as I reached for Devena.
Her eyelids fluttered open and she moaned. Huh? Uh, what? AmAm I dead? Devena
asked.
Not yet. Thank God.
With Ralick and Russell right behind us, I helped Devena out of the boiler room. I
opened the exit door and we walked out into the cold wonderland once more. It was early
morning, with enough light to see. A few wisps of snow swirled in the air around us. I doublechecked to make sure Russell and Devena had on all of their Nitro gear. They did, and Ralick
wore his animal fur, so he was set.
Look, Devena whispered.
From behind a large tree, Vera emerged, shivering in the bearskin coat.
Still here? I asked her.
Where was I supposed to go? she said.
So the animal fur worked for you, huh? You can thank ol Ralick here.
Vera looked at Ralick and frowned. Ralick didnt look too thrilled to see her, either.
Great, were out of here. Now what? Russell said groaning.
Ralick picked up some snow with his fur gloves and packed the snow into both Russells
and Devenas injuries.
What the fuAhhhh, Devena said. What are you doing?
Ralick, stop! I shouted.
I pulled Ralick off them, but he just shook his head.

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Its okay, Ralick said. Im good at this, my friend. See?

I looked down and saw the snow eat away at the blood seeping out of their injuries.
No way, I whispered.
Ralick slapped on enough snow for it to consume the blood of their wounds. Pure genius.
A second later, Ralick brushed off the snow and pulled out a wad of bandages along with
several strips of what looked like animal skin.
Bleedings stopped, so lets get you covered up, Ralick said.
He dressed the wounds and wrapped them in the animal skins.
Wow, I said. Genius, Ralick.
He laughed and nodded.
I looked around the grounds and realized we were at the southern end of the mansion,
right at the edge of a high hill that led down into the woods.
How are we going to get down from here? Vera asked.
We can make it, Ralick said. The woman and I have our animal fur, and you three
have your fancy coats to protect you.
I nodded, but pursed my lips. No. I shook my head. No, I cant leave Akin.
No, Vera said. Chris, hell kill you.
Maybe, but Akin got us this far. I cant leave him behind.
I dont want to wait, Vera said. I want out of here.
Fine, I said. Ralick, get her down the hill to safety somewhere, okay? Come back if
you can. Ill hurry inside and get Akin, and well get these two out of here if thats all right with
you two? I asked, looking from Russell to Devena.
Yeah, Zim, Devena said. Do it. Akins worth saving.

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Russell nodded.
Okay, I said.
With that, Ralick took Vera down the hill, and I journeyed back into the underbelly of the
house. I sprinted down the long, hot hallway, passing the boiler room that was ready to blow the
mansion sky high. The adrenaline in my body was at an all-time high. I got closer to the red
room. I saw some Volksons come around the curve in the hallway. I fired off a few rounds from
my pistol. Three of them fell to the ground. Two shot back, and the other three turned and ran
back the way theyd come. I fired a couple more times and the other two retreated as well.
I continued onward, watching for Volksons, but soon I saw the door to the red room
where I hoped to find Akin and maybe a subdued Chris. I crept up to the door and listened to
what sounded like bones breaking and men screaming like little girls. I yanked open the door
with my pistol in one hand and the shotgun in the other.
Oh my God, I whispered.
The Grudge was having his way with the Volksons who retreated from me. Arms, legs,
necks, backs, he was breaking everything he could get his hands on, growling like a rabid
animal. Akin was on one knee, panting and looking pretty worn down. A line of blood trickled
down the side of his head.
Damn skinheads, the Grudge said.
He tossed the last broken body aside and turned to face Akin. In his bloodlust, Grudge
didnt notice me standing there, though. As bad as Akin looked, he got up and stood his ground
again, ready to fight. The Grudge, though, didnt look tired at all from what I could tell.
I raised my pistol and shot Grudge in the upper arm. He stopped and looked at his wound,
then at me.

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Akin also turned toward me. Zim. What thewhat are you doing here?
Im here to help you so you can help us, I said. The boiler room is ready to blow, and
we have to get out of here.
Oh, really? the Grudge said. So you wanna lie here like broken glass too, huh,
Zimmery Mac?
I didnt know what to say to him. Practically anything I said might set him off, but he was
still Chris inside there somewhere. He helped me get this far, too, so I wanted to communicate
with that man.
Chris, listen to me. I know youre in there. You have to help us get out of here.
The Grudge, though, was obviously still in full control. He laughed and walked toward
me.
Chris, come on. Think about your Johnny. If you stay here, youre not going to be able
to see him. The Snowoman will win if you dont help us.
The Grudge kept advancing. My stomach twisted, and I swallowed hard. Akin ran out of
the other doorway toward the stairs that led to the main floors. I hoped he had a plan to get us out
of here and not leave me here with this beast.
I backed up to the wall. I checked my shotgun to see if I had any rounds left. I didnt.
Shiaat. I remembered I had a mini-grenade in my back coat pocket. I tossed my shogun, then
slid my free hand behind me slowly and grasped the grenade in my hand.
Maybe I could stick it into the Grudges mouth when he got close enough and kick him
away from me. I didnt want to kill Chris in the process, so I lowered my pistol and kept the
grenade hidden.
I decided to try a different approach, talking to the persona of the Grudge himself.

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Hey man. Listen, this is stupid. I mean, what are you going to accomplish by killing
me?
Im charging up.
Charging up? What the hell does that mean?
It means Im going to kill you for the fuel Ill need to put an end to the monster that
kidnapped Chriss boy. Someone that rapes, tortures, and disposes of children like theyre junk
food bags deserves the ultimate punishment. Thats why Chris comes to me. Thats why hes not
answering youbecause he knows that this has to be done.
The Grudge reached out and grasped my neck; I held up the mini-grenade right in front of
his face.
Imma blow us both up if you dont let me go.
The Grudge stood there and looked at the grenade with those sharp red eyes. He looked at
me. His face got red and his teeth grinded together.
Fine, he said. Go ahead, pull the clip.
Ill do it, man. I swear I will. Let me go.
He stared, seething. In a blur of motion, he snatched the grenade from my hand. I tried to
pull my pistol up to shoot him, but he kneed me and I dropped the gun.
I knew you didnt have it in you, he said. But you know what? Ill do you the honors.
He pulled the clip on the grenade and stuffed it into my mouth, forcing it partway down
my throat. I struggled against him, but he had me pinned to the wall.
Oh Lord no. I cant die like this.
The Grudge smiled and backed away. You said the boiler room was ready to blow.
Guess I better put on the gas. He smirked and walked out.

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I fell to my knees. I wanted to swallow so bad, but I couldnt. I could barely breathe. The
knob in my throat was going to kill me. My thoughts brought me images of Lane, Daphne, and
my two sons.
My eyes watered, and my vision blurred. The grenade should have gone off by now
unless the igniter clip was jammed against my throat.
I struggled for another breath. Everything was so hot. I closed my eyes, but I could barely
open them again.
I dropped flat onto the ground, choking, ready to accept my fate, but a burst of light
appeared in front of me. An angel with a silhouette shadow came for me. It reminded me of how
my brother Carl came after me when I went to the deep end of the pool and got stuck there, or
when my father beat me unconscious and Carl rescued me.
Through my hazy vision, I saw a booted foot come straight at me from the silhouette. The
boot struck me dead in my stomach, and I threw up the grenade. Just sit down, the silhouette
said to me.
I couldnt make it out, although it sounded familiar. I dropped to my rear and coughed. I
threw up again and felt like I was going to faint. The silhouette, meanwhile, reached down and
attached something to the soles of my boots. The mystery man picked me up and threw me over
his shoulder. He ran out the back doorway of the red room and headed down the hall. Hanging
off his back, I looked up and saw some Volksons running toward us, looking terrified. Behind
them was a wave of roaring snow. It enveloped the Volksons, but kept rushing for us.
The snow formed a giant hole that looked like a portal or a funnel, and it tried to suck us
in. I screamed.
Then an explosion came from the other side of the snow.

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The grenade.
The snack that almost had me for lunch went off. The concussion wave blew through
the hallway; its flames engulfed the snow like a snake eating a rat. The explosion wasnt large
enough to consume all of the snow coming at us. The remaining snow reformed itself and chased
us again. We passed the boiler room and I could hear a loud hissing.
A second later, the man carrying me stopped in front of the exit door and lowered me to
my feet, allowing me to see the angel who saved meAkin.
Move, he said.
He threw open the door and yanked me outside. The white of the snow all around us hit
me like a flash of nuclear light. Akin slammed the door shut and put in a keycode at super speed.
The door locked, and I heard the snow crash into the door. The snows impact against the locked
door was strong enough to knock Akin back and almost down the hill, past where Devena and
Russell lay, either unconscious or asleep.
I reached for Akin, but he already clambered back to his feet.
Yo, take it easy, he said.
Thanks but no thanks, I said. This place is going to blow.
I know. Lets get these two up and moving.
He went to Devena and Russell and attached some device to their boots, as hed done to
mine. I looked down at my boots to see what they were, but then I heard someone cough.
What took you guys so long, man? Russell asked.
Sorry, Akin said, I got side tracked by the Playboy magazines I found up in your
room.

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I wanted to laugh, but we were all a few inches away from a boiler room explosion. We
had no time for jokes.
What are these things? Devena asked.
Click your heels together and see, Akin said.
So we did, and lo and behold, telescopic skis popped out to the front and back.
Whoa. This is like something out of a spy movie, Russell said.
We got Devena and Russell up, even though they were dazed and woozyme, too,
actually, but our lives depended on this. Akin handed us each a pair of what looked like batons
with looped straps, but when we grasped them, they extended into ski poles.
Crazy, Devena said.
Stay close to me, I told Devena, but she ignored me.
We walked to the crest of the hill; we stopped when Akin raised a fist.
So, everyone went through that hardcore ski training in the service, right? Russell
asked, but no one answered. Okay, Ill take that as an unconfirmed yes.
Below us were a bunch of Volksons on skis and motor-sleds, going down the hill from
around the front of the house. A few of Chriss guards followed on skis, shooting at the
Volksons. Looks like both groups did the ski-snow simulation training too, dammit. I looked
closely and saw that one of the men riding on a motor-sled was none other than Kion, in Jims
body. That monstrous bastard somehow escaped when we all left the boiler room.
My energy and adrenaline kicked back in. Kion wasnt getting away this time. I gripped
the ski poles and skied off down the hill, and the others followed me. As soon as we jumped the
top lip of the hill and started to go down, the mansion exploded behind us.

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I barely felt the blast because we were going down the hill so fast, but the blast rocked
the ground, and a wave of heat washed over us from behind. Giant pieces of brick and burning
debris rained down all around us, striking a few of the Volksons and Chriss guards.
In the midst of all this chaos, the snow roused itself, and it didnt help that the blast
caused a slight avalanche to erupt at the top of the hill and come down with us. Not too big, but
still dangerous enough when the avalanche itself was alive and ready to feed.
With a weapon in one hand and ski pole in the other, Devena and Russell were shooting
at the Volksons skiing down the slope ahead of us. Akin also pulled out his two semis and was
firing on the way down, leaving both his ski poles dangling by their straps on his wrists. It was a
shooting gallery on skis.
I must have lost most of my gear in the melee after Akin rescued me, so I maneuvered
toward one of the fallen guards and snatched up his assault rifle. I looked closer at it and almost
smiled. The weapon Id grabbed was an automatic equipped with a napalm launcher.
Could I get any more fortunate? I guess I could if I actually survived all of this, but that
was still in question. The avalanche came down hard behind us, engulfing some of the men wed
already flown past.
Guys, we gotta move faster, I said.
I heard a loud roar soon after. It sounded like a lion mixed with an elephant. I turned my
head.
Oh, hell no.
Shiva.
The statue survived the blast, and now the snow-covered god of death came straight at us,
charging through the flames of the house like some invincible juggernaut.

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I looked ahead to dodge a tree and glanced back at Shiva. The flames still burnt on its icy
arms, but it didnt melt it. In fact, it wielded its two swords made of dry ice and sliced and diced
every Volkson or guard in reach. It hurled its two lances, impaling two of the Volksons.
The snow rose and devoured them. Shiva caught up to the avalanche and rode its crest,
snatching up its lance along the way. The statue speared several men with one of its lances. It
looked like a stick of human shish kebabs.
I kept looking ahead to make sure I wasnt going to slam into anything, but I glanced
back as much as I could. I didnt want to get skewered by that snow-controlled statue as it
flipped from side to side, dodging explosions and striking us with its icy blades.
Following Akin, Devena, and Russell, I veered to the right to get out of the path of the
avalanche, then I spotted Kion, still riding as the rear passenger on a motor-sled driven by a
Volkson. I tried to speed up to catch the motor-sled, but he spotted me and had his driver gun it
to put more distance between us. Bullets flew past us.
I jumped over some of the fallen guards and Volksons to keep myself from crashing.
Glancing back over my shoulder, I saw some Volksons come up behind me. Akin and Devena
gunned them down, but another group appeared.
I spun around and skied down the hill backwards, firing on the Volksons chasing me. At
the same time, we were still dodging debris and Shiva as it hurled giant snow spears at us. I spun
back around because I knew we were about to enter a stand of woods. Things were about to get
ugly.
I leaned forward to gain some momentum and hopefully catch up to Kion. He saw me
coming again and shot at me from the motor-sled. I ducked and swerved to the left, then to the
right, thankful that Id learned that during my arctic training simulations days.

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We entered the trees, and I swerved between them, knowing that if I ran into a tree, it
would pretty much be over. If the impact didnt kill me, the snow would. Even though I knew
my body heat was off the charts, the snow beneath us couldnt get us because we moved so fast
that it didnt have enough time to pick up on our heat signatures.
We cut back and forth; I noticed Shiva and the avalanche were almost right on top of us.
The snow engulfed the forest, and Shiva was cutting trees down as it went. To my left, I saw
some of the Volksons slam into trees and get swallowed by the snow. Some of Chriss guards
went down too.
The snow on the trees moved the branches at us. A few of Chriss guards and a few
Volksons kept dodging the snow tentacles and skied between the trees, but several branches
made contact and caused the men to stumble, allowing the snow and Shiva to kill them.
The snow poked up as sharp spikes and tried to trip us up. Russell hit one of the spikes,
but only one of his skis got damaged. I saw him try to ski on one foot, and he was doing pretty
well. Devena came up next to me and nodded toward Kion. I nodded back, thankful for her
willingness to back me up. Kion, though, eyed us, pulled out a shotgun, and aimed it at our feet.
Look out, I shouted at Devena.
We both got out of the way of Kions line of fire, and he ended up shooting one of the
Volksons and blowing off his foot. The Volkson screamed, spun, and rolled right into the snow. I
cut back toward Kions sled. He tried to line up another shot at me, but Devena came in from the
other side and shot his driver. The driver slumped forward.
Damn, Kion said.
He saw the sled head out of control. I zoomed in on Kion as he shoved the driver into the
snow and took the controls. I jumped into the air, clicked my heels to retract the skis, and landed

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on the rear of the sled. Kion twisted back toward me, and I unloaded with a right cross, but he
blocked it. He swerved the sled back and forth, and all I could do was hang on.
I lurched forward to grab at Kion, but I saw that he cut the wires on the sled.
If I go, you go, Zim, he said.
You first.
I grabbed him and threw him off the sled. He went tumbling to the bottom of the hill. I
knew he was dead after that. I didnt see it get him, but I knew he had no way to escape its grip.
But now I had another problem. The sleds controls were useless, and I was heading for a
massive maple tree. I leaped off the sled, and once more while I was in the air, I clicked my heels
again and the skis came out of my boots. The motor-sled slammed into the tree and exploded. I
landed and almost tumbled over, but caught my balance and skied all the way to the bottom of
the hill.
Once there, I slowed down and looked back to see the avalanche lose its momentum and
spread out to join the snow already on the ground. I didnt see Shiva anywhere, so I hoped it got
buried under the snow. I didnt really care; I just felt glad I was safe.

A few seconds later, Akin, Devena, and Russell all came to a stop at the bottom of the
hill.
Man, Russell said, that was insane.
Yeah, Devena said, and you somehow made it down here on one ski?
Russell laughed. I skied over to Devena, and caught her smile as she nodded. Without
even thinking about it, I touched the strains of hair sticking out from under her hood. Are you
okay?

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Russell and Akin glanced over at us. Devena reeled back, blinking rapidly. Im fine,
man. Her attitude took me back a little. It shouldnt have. I was the one who broke off whatever
was trying to happen between us. Damn it, this wasnt the time to be a damn teenager.
Embarrassment rolled down my face, not good when I was out here. I stepped back and gave her
some space.
Lets move, Akin said. Get a ski off that dead Volkson over there, and lets keep
going before the snow picks up our body heat.
Russell did as Akin commanded, and we slow-skied across a short meadow, then down
another hill, allowing our bodies to cool off. At the bottom of that hill, we all stopped and caught
our breath.
While resting, Ralick and Vera emerged from among a stand of evergreen trees. Vera
looked well enough, but I could see that she was still scared.
After wed told them what happened, Akin said, The blizzard is picking up. We need to
head out.
How are we going to survive out here? Devena asked. I dont even know where we
are.
Not to worry, Akin said. He opened his backpack and pulled out several fur coats.
Here, put these on. The four of us should be safe with our Nitro gear, but lets all get as much
protection as possible. And, Vera, another layer will help you stay warmer. And I can go without
one if you want it, Ralick.
Ralick shook his head. Im good.
I put the fur coat on. Akin must have figured out the animal skin angle, or maybe hed
overheard Ralick and me talking about it. Once we put the coats on, we minimized our skis and

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continued to walk down the hill until we got to a snow-covered field. We walked across the
meadow; the snowflakes came down hard, just like before, but this time was different. The snow
diverted away from us while in the air. If I was blind, I might not have believed it, but I saw the
snow go around us.
Its working and working well, Akin said.
Ralick, you were right, man, Devena said.
See? Being poor and not pampered has its advantages, Ralick said. Unlike those
coming at us.
What? I said.
Incoming! Akin shouted.
I heard gunfire and Ralick fell down.
Ralick, I said.
I looked ahead and saw a gang of Volksons on motor-sleds come at us with guns blazing.
I raised the assault rifle and used the napalm launcher to take out a few of them, but we were too
vulnerable out here in the snow. This was how we were going to go out. Kion was still going to
win despite my efforts.
The Volksons surrounded us, yammering in German. We couldnt do anything, so we
stood as they circled us, lining us up for killing shots, but gunfire erupted from our right. Several
of the Volksons fell into the snow. I saw someone charge at the remaining Volksons; he shot
some and punched others in the jaw, knocking them out cold with loud bone-cracking sounds.
Oh, man, I said.

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It was Chris, or should I say the Grudge. He took out nearly every Volkson, but the snow
sensed his extreme heat and tried to swallow him. His strength was so great that he slapped the
wave of snow back.
He grabbed one of the Volksons and snapped his neck. The man fell to the ground and
the snow swallowed him. The snow again tried to rise and kill the Grudge. This time, it formed
itself into tentacles, but once more, he resisted.
Get. Off. Of. Me, the Grudge said.
The snow made more tentacles, this time with spikes on the ends. The tentacles circled
the Grudge and took turns stabbing at him. He blocked some of the strikes, but he got stabbed a
few times. The holes in his Nitro suit grew bigger and the blood showed through it. The snow
rose over the Grudge, consuming his legs. I stood there, shocked. The Grudge was tough, but he
wasnt that tough.
Kill him. Kill him, Vera said.
Shed soon have her wish. It would only be a matter of time. The Grudge was fighting for
his life and losing, but Akin pulled off his fur coat and covered the Grudge with it. Why he was
trying to save him was beyond me. Maybe it was for the money, or maybe it was for some other
reason. I didnt get it.
Zim, move, Devena said.
Devena wanted me to get out of her line of fire, or did she? I heard a loud motor from
behind. Ahh!
I dropped my napalm gun, and my boots were up in the air. I flew through the sky, and
my face hit the snow. I quickly rolled over to keep the snow from eating my face off. I got into a

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standing position, but a sharp pain etched itself in my back. I groaned, fell to the ground, and
looked over my shoulder. I saw the motor-sled that ran over me pull up next to me.
It was Kion, and hed just planted an ice pick in the back of my coat. I tried to reach for it
before he got too close to me, but it was too late. He pointed an automatic rifle at my head. A
few other Volksons came with him, and they were keeping Akin and the others occupied, even as
the Grudge continued to fight off the snow.
I guess this is where it finally ends for us, huh, Zim? Kion said. You lying in the
snow, beaten and broken after I put a bullet through your head.
I shook my head. Youre going to burn in hell for this Kion. I swear on my daughters
life youre going to burn for what you did to my family.
He turned his head away and chuckled. I reached for the ice pick and felt my fingertips
touch the handle.
Whatever makes you sleep at night, old-timer, and youll be sleeping for a long time
after Im done with you.
I grimaced, knowing I had no way out of this, unless Akin or one of the others managed
to get an opening to save me. Suddenly, I heard a loud growl. Oh damn, another bear. No, the
growl wasnt loud enough to be a bear. Kion turned his attention toward the sound, as I did. A
massive white blur flew through the air at Kion.
Agrrrggghhhh, Kion said.
It was a dog and not just any dog.
Ranger, I said.
Kion shot over his shoulder at Ranger. I finally reached the ice pick and plunged it into
Kions left thigh. Blood squirted from the puncture wound. I never heard a man nor a woman

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scream as loudly as Kion did then. The snow tasted the blood on his leg, and it opened up
beneath him and he fell downward.
I felt the snow below me buckle and sink farther into the ground. To my left, Russell
shouted, Oh God, are we on a frozen lake? The ice beneath is cracking.
No, its the snow coming alive, Akin said. Everybody, run!
I ignored the sharp ache in my back, got up, and ran. All around us, the snow caved in,
trying to suck us down. I was able to make it to sloping higher ground where the snow wasnt
very deep. I looked around to see who else made it. I saw Russell, Devena, and Akin. We kept
moving, all the way to the edge of what looked like a cliff.
I heard a growl again and turned to the right to see Ranger. The dog howled and ran to
me as if he was as happy to see me as I was to see him.
Good boy, good boy, I said to Ranger.
Ranger looked past me and howled again.
What is it, boy? I said, turning.
From down the slope, Vera ran straight for us, screaming. Ahh, Zim. Somebody. Help
me. I thought she was running from the snow, but someone was behind her. She was running
from the Grudge. I couldnt believe that lunatic survived the snow attack, but I could tell he was
hurting as he struggled up the hill. His clothes were torn and ripped up, and dried blood was all
over him. The snow still tried to grab him and subdue him, but he just slapped it away or plowed
through it.
Vera ran up and got behind me and Ranger. Oh, my God, help me, please.
Come back here, you whore, the Grudge said.
Ranger took a step forward and growled.

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Whats this? You got a mutt fighting your battles for you now, Mac? the Grudge said.
The Grudge charged at us, but Ranger met him full force. They slammed into each other
and Ranger twisted to bite the Grudge in the shoulder, but the Grudge bit Ranger in the face.
Twisting again, Ranger bit the Grudge in the arm and locked his teeth. The Grudge snarled and
roared like a wild animal. He raised Ranger up and slammed the dog into the ground, over and
over again.
I thought he was going to kill him, so I got up to intervene, but four snow pillars emerged
from the ground, knocking the Grudge off balance. He let go of Ranger; the dog jumped back up
just as the Grudge tried to shoot at him, but the snow blocked the bullets and kept Ranger safe.
The snow swirled around Ranger, ready to fight alongside him against the Grudge.
Ranger charged at the Grudge again, this time with the snow providing assistance with its
four spiky arms. It was an amazing thing to watch, but a voice caught my attention. Zimmery.
I turned and saw Ralick head up the slope. He held a hand over the gunshot wound on his
arm, but he looked okay. I ran around Ranger and the Grudge to get to him.
Are you okay, Ralick? I asked.
Yeah, Ill live for a few more hours, I guess.
Devena, Russell, Vera, and Akin maneuvered their way around the fight to join us.
The Grudge just keeps coming back for more, Akin said.
Well, how do we stop him? I cant believe we have to help the dog with the fight we
should be fighting, Devena said.
Use this, Ralick said. He handed me the gun with the napalm launcher on it. Shoot a
hole into the side of the cliff and make him fall over it.
I looked at Akin, and he nodded. Gotcha, I said.

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I ran past the fight and went to the edge of the cliff. I checked to see if the launcher was
ready to go. Good, it was.
Here, Ranger, I said. This way, boy.
Ranger kept charging at the Grudge, but he began angling him toward me. The four snow
arms also attacked the Grudge at the same time, but he grabbed at the arms and knocked them
away.
Cmon, boy, this way, I said.
Ranger continued to charge at him, and I quick-stepped to my right, away from the fight.
The Grudges back was now to the cliff a few yards away.
Close enough.
I cocked the napalm launcher and shot it at the edge of the cliff. Before it exploded,
Ranger howled loudly and the snow pushed the Grudge all the way to the edge.
The Grudge fell back and the cliff blew up, carrying the Grudge right over the edge.
Yes! Devena said.
Good boy, Ranger, I said.
We celebrated, but a loud roar erupted from the bottom of the cliff, shaking the ground
beneath us.
That cant be Chris again, Devena said.
But there he was. We watched as the Grudge ascended like some reborn monster from the
sea of snow, but as he got closer, I saw he was laid out unconscious as he rose on something
beneath the snow. I squinted through the swirling snowflakes and saw what looked like a crown
with spikes on top, then two eyes and four arms.
Shiva, I said.

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Oh damn, Russell said.

Back away from the cliff; get back now, Akin said.
We retreated and regrouped near a stand of trees. We prepped our weapons one last time.
Shiva rose over the edge of the cliff. The statue chucked the Grudge aside and faced us.
I took a deep breath, trying to let the thought of fighting a twenty-foot, one-ton block of
dry ice that looked like a god of death with two swords and two spears settle in. I figured it
wouldnt be a real-life boss battle if it wasnt insanely impossible to beat, but, hey, miracles
happened in the past, and wed made it this far. I just hoped a miracle came with this fight.
After all, as I said earlier, I didnt like boss battles. I was never that good at them in my
younger days, but today, I had to be.

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Chapter Eleven
January 6, 2050

The snow under our feet shifted back and forth. The high slope we stood on sunk before
us as Shiva rose. It was a terrifying sensation, but it was expected. Shiva armed itself to attack
us. Ranger and I took the left flank, ready to fight, while the others spread out to our right, except
for Vera, whom wed tucked behind a large tree. I thought I could blow Shivas head off with the
napalm launcher, but it had to stay still long enough for me to shoot it.
The statue raised a sword into the air.
Get ready, Akin said.
Shiva rammed the sword into the ground, causing a massive shockwave that threw us all
down into the snow. It wanted the snow to devour us, but it wasnt going to be that easy, not with
us having on our animal fur and/or Nitro gear. If Shiva wanted to kill us, it was going to have to
do it all by itself.
A spray of gunfire from down the hill struck the snow all around Shivas legs.
What the hell? Devena said.
Look, I said.
A group of Volksons survived and so did some of Chriss guards.
The guards and Volksons kept firing at Shiva. The statue turned its attention toward them
and spun around like a tornado, hurling itself down the hill and slaying several of the men in its
path with its two slicing swords.
Shiva refocused on us, I tried to shoot at its head, but it dodged every shot. Something
that tall and huge was way too agile. It created a rock-hard chain out of the snow and swung it at

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us. Watch out, Russell said. The chain glanced off Devena and Ralick on the right flank, but it
missed the rest of us. I saw Shiva jump high into the air, propelled by the snow that launched it
like a rocket, but not in our direction. It came down hard, smashing the last few Volksons that I
hadnt seen.
Shivas landing shook the ground under us, and the earth was cracking beneath us.
Ahhh. Were going to die, Vera said.
Quiet, Akin said. Stay back there and be calm.
The snow-driven Shiva sensed Veras rising body heat levels as it turned back toward us
and went after her as did some of the snow on the ground around us. Shiva flipped forward and
charged at us. It swung the chain again; we all ducked and dodged it, but the wind behind the
swing knocked all of us down. This isnt working, I shouted. We cant beat this thing.
Dammit, all I needed was one good hit. I regained my footing, then Ralick came up next
to me. Hey, bud, pretty exciting, dont ya think? Ralick said. I shook my head, watching as
Shiva angled to the right, heading for Vera.
This isnt one of those times to like what youre seeing, I said. How are we going to
beat this thing? I know if I could just shoot it with my launcher, we could have a chance.
I aimed again and fired, but Shiva dodged away. Akin and Devena fired their weapons at
it, too, but the bullets were a waste of time, as the snow absorbed them before they could actually
strike and chip at the ice.
Its only an image controlled by snow, but its like an animal. You have to lure it into a
trap to kill it, my friend, Ralick said. The sculpture of Shiva is an extension of that animal.
You just have to know when to strike.

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His response actually made sense, but then again, taming a bull was easier than pissing
off a dinosaur.
Can you get the dog for me, my friend? Ralick said. Im going to set up Shiva for you
to shoot it with your launcher.
I trusted him. Hed been right so far, and we needed his expertise to survive out here. I
whistled to get Rangers attention. Stick with Ralick, boy.
Here, boy. Come with me, Ralick said, then clicked his tongue.
Ranger barked and ran after Ralick, who proceeded to shoot at Shivas head as Akin,
Devena, and Russell kept firing too. I saw them run down the hill a bit. I didnt know what they
were doing. Ralick kept firing, but he wasnt hitting its eyes or face. It looked as if he was trying
to hit the crown on its head. The only conclusion I came to was that he was a bad shot. Shiva
threw a spear at Ralick and Ranger, striking a tree so hard that it cracked and fell to the ground. I
jumped onto the fallen tree to get out of the snow, and soon Akin, Devena, and Russell found
their way up next to me.
Hey, Zim, look what we found, Devena said.
The three of them had grenades in their handsprobably got the explosives on some of
the dead guards and Volksons. I threw a glance at Shiva, who was still pursuing Ralick and
Ranger. Perfect, I said. Now we have more firepower to take Shiva out.
Ranger and Ralick ran back toward us and jumped up onto the fallen tree. As Shiva
followed, I readied my rifle, but then we received gunfire from the left. More Volksons.
Dammit, I said. These guys wont let up.
We got them, Akin said.

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Akin, Devena, and Russell gave me cover while I focused my aim on Shiva. The statue
raised both of its swords at Ralick and Ranger; however, the snow protected Ranger from the
attack by blocking Shivas sword stab.
Incredibly, the snow protected the dog from itself.
Shiva bore down on them; Ralick took his ice pick and hacked at Shivas ankle. It didnt
do much damage, though. Shiva stepped back and proceeded to fight Ranger and his snow
defense.
The stupid thing is really fighting itself, I said.
No, its not fighting itself, Akin said. The snow doesnt attack, and Shiva is just an
extension of it. I think its going after Ralick, and Ranger is only in the way.
Ralick had on animal fur, but I guessed his body heat was through the roof right now.
Ralick began to climb up to Shivas body using the ice pick. He paused to shoot at the crown
again. Shiva shook him off and turned its attention to the rest of us.
It stopped all movement and posed. It raised both of its sword-wielding arms, moved the
two other arms with the spears behind its back and stood on one leg.
Oh, my God. Whats it doing? Vera asked.
I dont know, Akin said. Just stay back.
Ralick and Ranger rejoined us as Shiva stuck the two giant spears in the ground and
folded its two free hands together, like it was praying.
What theWhat the hell is it doing? Devena asked.
The statue stood there with two hands folded and two hands holding swords into the sky,
and it turned its face toward the dark clouds. It didnt move at all, meaning I had my perfect shot,
but a heard thunder boom, and giant chunks of ice fell from the clouds.

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Get under those trees by Vera, Akin said. Move!

We ran for the woods. Lightning struck overhead, and it struck the fallen tree we stood
on.
Damn, Russell said.
We huddled beneath the lower branches of some large evergreen trees. The ice, though,
found its way to us. I didnt know the snow could mimic this kind of power at this level of
intensity. Some icy needles pierced my coat and pants.
Ahh, Vera said. Make it stop.
Were never going to make it, Devena said. A large chunk of ice hit Devena in the
back. Argh.
My heart skipped. Devena!
I tried to move over to help her, but Russell yelled, Zim! Watch out.
A large piece of hail hit me in the head, and I fell to the ground. Everything was spinning
sideways and upward. I was so limp and confused, I forgot where I was.
Why am I here? What are we fighting for?
I sunk slowly into the snow; I could feel my flesh being torn wherever it was exposed.
My vision went blurry; I imagined my dad again. I remembered how hed strike me down over
and over again because I wasnt holding the bat right, or because I hadnt put the dishes away a
certain way. My mother stood there watching, not doing anything. My looks, my cries for help,
werent reaching her.
I groaned at what the snow was doing. I felt hands reaching for me and trying to help me.
I heard voices call my name, but my mind was somewhere else.

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I felt so hopeless. I failed my mom and my whole family back then because I couldnt
stand up to my dad. My thoughts raced forward to the present and Daphne, and I failed her in our
marriage. I drove her off with a strike of my fist, with my blind ragelike the Grudge himself.
I heard shouting, and the hands let go of me. The snow pressed down onto my chest,
trying to rip through the fur coat and my Nitro gear. My mind drifted through the invisible razor
cutting me open from the inside. I thought about the first time I saw Daphne. Id seen her on the
steps of my high school gym.
She was whistling a song from some indie band group called The Classics. The song was
called Where Are You Now? I didnt speak to her the first time I saw her, but I knew I had to
make a good first impression when I met her again. I decided to memorize the song she was
singing on the steps that day.
I went to YouTube and found the song using a sound recognizer. I played the song and
had my old smartphone pick it up. It told me the song and the lyrics. I recited those lyrics for
days, until I mastered it.
It all felt so impossible to do, as I wasnt the best-looking guy in high school or much of a
ladies man at all. I had bad skin, low self-esteem, and not the most charming personality. I was
shy, but when I was myself, I was a pretty funny guy. Unfortunately, the girls never thought I
was funny, mainly because a lot of them didnt think I was cute. Other guys at the school had a
great time with them. Four or five girls would talk and take pictures with them. My brother Carl,
aka Carl Mac, aka Call Carl, was the pretty boy of the family, and all the girls liked him, too.
It was a huge challenge to muster up the courage to talk to Daphne at the time. Boy, she
was fine, nice legs, and muscular, too. Bright skin, long silky hair, no way was I going to get
with her, but I had to try. What did I have to lose?

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Miracles do happen, I reminded myself every night before I went to bed. That didnt
mean I neglected preparation. I worked out a lot; I watched what I ate and took care of my oily
skin. I did whatever I could to make this work.
On the day before our graduation, I saw her, singing that same song. As she sang the
song, I began to sing along with her from a distance. Little by little, I got closer and closer to her.
She heard my raspy voice, looked over at me and realized that I was singing to her. She
scrunched up her eyebrows, no doubt having no idea what to think about me. I assumed she
thought I was a creep or something, but then I sneezed on one of the verses in the lyrics. I was so
embarrassed, with snot hanging from my nose. I knew she wasnt going to like me now, but
something unexpected happened. She laughed a little.
Youre off one key, she said. Try again.
I felt more at ease when she said that, so I went up to her, wiped my nose and she had
sung again. I soon found myself following her melody. I didnt want to because it was such a
lame song, but she liked it, so I did what I had to do to get her attention. Plus, my goal was to get
her to notice me, and she had.
After that day, we started to talk and we got to know each other. Her family was like
mine, wealthy, but practically everybody in school during that time was. The wealthy were the
only ones who could afford to go to school. It was on the day of graduation that I asked her out.
She said Yes, and I took her out on a date the very next day.
I guess the pressure of being seen together lessened, since those we went to school with
were no longer going to be in our lives anymore, and that was good enough for me.
Those were the memories going through my head as I prepared for death, but those same
memories made me want to live again. My body warmed up. My eyes opened. I wanted to fight

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because I wanted to see Daphne again. I wanted to rekindle that moment we met. I wanted to
save our marriage, and I wanted us to be a family again. Daphne, Micky, Zach ... Lane.
NO!
I wasnt going to let it end like this. I wasnt going to give up on her, on them. Not now,
not here, and not ever.
I grabbed for my gun and found my ice pick. I shot and hacked at the snow accumulating
on and around me. I jumped up and saw that the storm was still hitting us hard. I didnt care; I
was going to survive this, and I was going to kill this thing.
As I got my wits about me, I caught Ralick running back toward the cliff, past Shiva.
Wheres Ralick going? I asked.
Akin and the others looked up at me from where they were crouched underneath the tree.
Zim, Devena said. Youre back.
I nodded, still feeling woozy.
Dont know what Ralicks doing, Akin said. Said something about turning the tables
in our favor.
I nodded again, and we all watched Ralick through the snow and ice.
Wait, hes going for the Grudge, I whispered.
I watched as Ralick picked up the Grudge. It was hard to see, but it looked like he was
smacking him around. I saw movement; the Grudge woke up. Ralick ran off and climbed back
up onto the unmoving Shiva. He climbed all the way to the crown. Ralick used his ice pick and
struck it on top of Shivas head. He yelled as he dug into the ice that made up the crown. Shiva
swung its head around and tried to knock Ralick off.

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I understood what Ralick was doing. Shiva was standing in one place, but Ralick caused
the snow to lose focus on controlling the storm, so not much ice fell now. I aimed for Shivas
legs with my napalm launcher. The snow tried to strike at me, but Devena, Russell, and Akin all
aimed at the snow and took down what they could without hurting me. The snow hit my face and
goggles. Its worms dug their way into my eyes, making it harder to see, but I was locked in and
focused. I was ready to end this.
I shot several rounds of napalm at Shiva. The napalm exploded, and the blast shattered
the statues legs. Shiva crumbled. It dropped its guard and its weapons, and fell all the way
down, smashing into the ground so hard that it formed a crater.
I watched as Ralick jumped off its head and hit the ground hard. The snowy Shiva roared
all the way down to its death, and I thought I saw the Grudge go down with it. After Shiva fell,
the snow reshaped itself back into one large field and covered the crater. The ice storm also
calmed down.
No way, Russell whispered.
I smiled. We won. We beat Shiva.

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***

Id won my first boss battle, and a real-life one to boot.

Ranger came up to me and the snow attacking me halted its strike. Devena, Russell, and
Akin came to see if I was okay.
Im fine, I said, right before I fell to my knees.
By the looks on their faces, they might have thought something was still wrong with me.
I gasped, then shook my head. Its fine. Just tired. Very tired. Need to take a break and
rest up.
Devena sighed and gazed around the endless field of white. Well, I guess miracles do
come true, huh?
I guess so. I cant believe we survived this crazy day.
We looked around and saw that there were no Volksons anywhere around, nor were there
any guards left. It looked like we were the only ones still alive.
Oh, Lord. Its dead, and Im alive, Vera said.
She ran up to us, then looked at us funny, especially at Devena.
Devena looked back at her. Yeah?
Youre ... Are you wearing my mink coat? she asked.
Devena looked down at the coat. Girl, I dont know what this is. All I know is that it
saved me from turning into chocolate rain.
We all laughedexcept for Vera.
I want that coat back when we go back to the mansion.
Russell laughed.

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We just fought a giantuhhh. Look, your mansion is in pieces, my dear, Devena said.
Didnt you hear that big explosion?
Veras eyes went wide. Oh, Lord. All my jewelry, coats, and shoes.
She pouted and cried like a spoiled brat. I think I understood why Chris smacked her
around. I mean, it was still wrong, but it sounded like she could be a major headache.
I took off my goggles to wipe the snow worms out of them. They turned into liquid after I
wiped off my goggles.
Hey, where are Ralick and Chris? Russell asked.
I looked to where they had fallen, but I didnt see either of them.
Lets fan out and search, Akin said. Stay calm. And Vera, you come with me.
We searched to see if they were around, but we didnt see a soul. Could they have fallen
into the giant pit that formed when Shiva fell? Since the snow calmed down, the pit was sealed
off.
Lets regroup and start a wider search, Akin said.
We walked across the field. Ranger sniffed around, and I hoped he might pick up a scent.
Maybe we dont want to find Chris, Devena said.
Ill say. We shouldnt be looking for him, Vera said.
I turned and looked at her. What was your and Chriss problem in the first place?
Vera frowned at me. Thats none of your business.
Okay, gosh.
Vera held her head and began to soboh boy. Oh, God. How am I going to get my
divorce with Chris after all of this? Whats Johnny gonna say? Whats my lawyer going to say?
So you are indeed the woman in the picture on the Christmas tree?

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I just wanted to go back to the house and get my things. Psycho-nut locked me up in that
dark room, feeding me crap every twelve hours. He tortured me, beat me, then left me there until
he did it again.
We were all still walking like we werent that concerned about her, but we all listened
carefully. She cried a bit more, then wiped her nose and sniffed. Oh, he got so mad a few weeks
ago.
I figured that was when Chris found out the Snowoman took Johnny. I wondered if she
even knew where he was. Leaving Vera to walk slowly alongside Russell, I went up to Akin.
Did you know all of this was going on with Vera? I whispered to him.
He said nothing, so I looked back and saw Russell trying to help Vera along the way as
she cried. I looked at Akin again, but he still didnt say anything. His silent response made me
hot again. I got in front of him, forcing him to stop.
Answer me, I whispered. Did you know Chris was doing this to her?
He frowned at me and straightened up his neck. Yes. I was the one feeding her every
twelve hours.
I almost hauled off on him right there. I cant believe you. Why would you do
something like that?
I dont get paid to ask questions or feel remorse. I get paid to assist Chris in finding his
son and protecting him, even if it means protecting him from himself. The guy has an extreme
case of DRB.
DRB? Delayed Rage Blackout. I turned away and swallowed raw fear with a hint of
saliva.
Chris has the same condition I do? I muttered.

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Devena walked up to us. Do you know you were protecting a madman and an
extremely violent killer?
Yes, I knew that, Akin said. Thats why Chris hired meto keep him in check. No
one knows its him because of the presumed death of the Grudge.
I shook my head.
I cant believe this whole time I was working for a mass-murderer, Devena said. This
same man was helping me with the search of my daughter? Crazy.
I looked back at Russell and Vera again, not wanting her to hear our conversation and get
more upset. They stopped and she cried on his shoulder.
So why keep Vera around, then? I asked Akin.
Vera was going to ruin everything for Chris, Akin replied. If she won the custody
battle with Johnny, Chriss company was going with Johnny and Vera. She would have
destroyed the company and you along with it, Devena. You would have been out of a job.
Fuq the company, Devena said. I was going to quit anyway. I didnt want anything to
do with that corporation anymore.
Okay, I said, that all makes a bit of sense, but what did ChrisI mean, the Grudge,
what did he mean when he said he was charging up? The Grudge said he was charging up to kill
the Snowoman.
It means exactly what he said, Akin said. The Grudge needs to bring it out, all of his
rage, so when he fights someone he really wants to kill; hell be able to do so without any
restrains, whether physical and mental. How do you think he survived out here as long as he did?
But he needs a good source of hate to do it.
Like an ex-wife.

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Not to mention that same woman is trying to take your son and your lifes work away
from you. Chris couldnt take it anymore and he really lost it when he found out the Snowoman
took his son.
I sighed. Yeah, okay, but you still knew better. I dont know if I can trust you anymore,
man. To me, this is like helping another psycho child kidnapper.
He glared at me with a vengeance. This is nothing like that. As long as Chris is in
control and Im here, it wont get out of hand.
Devenas eyes widened. Get out of hand? It already did. Look at what just happened.
Hey, that wasnt us, Akin said. You can blame the destruction of the house and that
giant thing coming after us on Mr. Mac here.
How is that? I asked.
What do you mean, how is that? You brought a hater Nazi murderer to our door, a man
who had a grudge against you. He hated you so bad he brought an army with him that
destroyed the house. If that never happened, we wouldnt be in this mess.
Whoa. Wait a minute. You talk about me being in the wrong, but look at you. You had a
murderer helping you.
But at least my murderer isnt some racist gangster bringing an army to kill us all.
No, you just help a mass-murderer who doesnt care who he beats, friend or foe, and the
difference is you knew what Chris was. I didnt know what Bob was, not to that degree.
And you didnt know who your cousin was either.
You son of a bit
Devena stepped between us. Hey, hey, it doesnt matter anymore; its over, all right? We
still need to find Ralick and Chris.

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Ralick, yes, I said. Chris, hell no?

Devena sighed and slapped his thighs. Zim, come on. I mean, Chris has connections. He
can get us out of here. That is, if he isnt still the Grudge. He can help. Right, Akin?
Akin looked at me with a mix of shame and anger in his eyes.
Russell waved and shouted from afar. Hey, guys. Look.
Ranger howled and ran to a spot in the snow. We followed him. As we got closer, I saw a
man lying in the snow. It was Chris, and a lot of his skin was exposed. The snow was eating
away at him. Akin brushed the snow away and checked his pulse. It was crazy. The longer I
stared at him, the more of myself I saw, Daphne, the war, those kids. Was this what I would
become one day?
Is he dead? Russell asked.
I hope so, Vera said.
No, hes alive, Akin said. But badly injured.
Akin took out a long scarf and tied it around Chriss head, covering his eyes.
What are you doing that for? Vera asked.
Im protecting youand us, Akin said. If Chris sees you, he might flip out again, and
I have no energy to hold him back now.
As if he was doing that good of a job in the first place.
Akin took Chriss comlink phone out of his pocket, along with another device. It looked
like an old pager to me, but it had temperature numbers with 12% written on it.
The hell?
You dont have one of those comlink phones? Russell asked Akin.
I did, but it got trashed in the mansion, Akin said.

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Akin checked through each of Chriss other pockets, but found nothing else. He slapped
his knee and rolled his tongue inside his jaw. Damn, he doesnt have more of his meds, he
muttered. Got to be mindful of that. Akin then put the pager looking device into his pocket and
took out a wound-up length of steel wire. Help me tie him up.
Man, I aint touching him, Devena said.
Dont worry, hes out cold. Come on, help me.
Devena, Russell, and I pitched in tying Chris up, hand and foot.
Chriss eyes popped open and he grunted, then said, Ahhhhhh, Die, Snowoman. We all
jumped back.
Hes still the Grudge, man, Devena said.
Devena, Russell, and I pointed our guns at Chriss head.
Calm down and back off, Akin said. Hes still unconscious. I think hes just
dreaming.
I looked at Chris and saw a tear roll down from under the scarf. The tear froze as soon as
the air hit it, and a few snowflakes landed on his cheek. The frozen tear and snow mixed together
and started to gnaw at Chriss cheek. Akin brushed it off Chriss face and wiped the blood.
Maybe Chris was dreaming about the same thing Id been thinking about. My child, and
what that sick creature might be doing to her, wondering if she was still even alive. I didnt
condone what Chris did to all those people he killed or hurt back then, and I didnt approve of
him almost killing his wife, though I understood a little better, but, in that moment, I did
understand fully that any of us fathers would do whatever it took to save those we loved.
Perhaps that was what Chris thought about when the Grudge resurfaced after all this time.
At least, that was what I hoped. Judging by the phone calls he was having with himself, though,

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it didnt sound that way. It sounded like he was more concerned about his company than his son.
I could have been wrong. I hope. One thing was certain, though. Id be damned if I ever let
myself get to the point he was at. I couldnt lose my mind, ever, not when my family was at
stake.
Akin covered Chris with a black bag he stuffed into his back pocket. He zipped the bag
around Chris, but left his head and shoulders showing, so he could breathe easier. He pulled on
the cords on the side of the bag and started dragging Chris through the snow.
Lets go, Akin said.
Hey, Akin, I said.
What.
I rubbed the bridge of my nose and sighed. Uh, thanks.
He stopped.
I know what I said was messed up, and to an extent, you were right. Me bringing Bob
out here on this search was my fault. I wish I never did it, but I did it for a good reason. I
strongly suspected him of murdering someone in my home. I didnt want him there. In the boiler
room, I found out that it was Kion, with his brain in Jims body, who did it.
A brain transplant, Akin said. I saw him on our way down the slope. Was this
retaliation for what you did in Africa?
Uh, yeah, you see
Ranger howled again.
We looked to see what it was. Akin dragged Chris across the snow toward the sound of
the barking. As we walked, I leaned closer to whisper into Devenas ear. Hey.

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She raised her eyebrow at me like I was some rustic amateur trying to get a phone
number. She turned back, looking straight. Hey.
Uhlisten. What I did back there. I-I just wanted to make sure you didnt get hurt.
Weve all taken some nasty hits.
Were soldiers. We can handle it, right?
I nodded, getting hot all over again. It felt as if I was trying to talk to Daphne all over
again in high school, with snot coming down my nose.
And thanks back there, I said. I mean we made one hell of a team, right?
We did. Too bad it cant be permanent.
I stopped and watched her press on into the snow. A weird tingling but thrilling sensation
raced around my chest and down to my gut. I jogged back up to her. Wait, what does that
mean?
Devena held her hand up. Please, Zim, lets just.... She sighed and shook her head.
What?
She stopped in her tracks and stared at me with a soft but stern look. We survived. But
its not over. Lane, Pam, the others are still in danger. So lets just focus on them. Okay? Please.
Devena hit me in the shoulder and smiled. Bud. She walked off, leaving me like a
rejected puppy dog. Shit. That hurt, but like before, she was right. I took a deep breath and
came to the conclusion that this couldnt be nothing more. We couldnt be nothing more than
friends, right? But she said, Only if we were a permanent team. What was that? Ugh, women.
Made my head hurt, yet I refused to take an aspirin for it. Worse than war.
Russell sighed as he and Vera marched along the invisible path to somewhere. Well,
now that this is over and we survived, where do we go now? Russell asked.

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Akin shrugged. I dont know anyplace that is close by, not to mention were all very
tired.
Devena stretched. Youre telling me. I wanna just lie here and fall asleep. But if I do
that, I wont be waking back up, will I? So where are we supposed to go?
Uh, well, we can go back to my place, I said. I know where it is from here. Its not too
far from where we all first met. We can keep heading in this direction.
Sounds good to me, Russell said.
We prepared our feet for the long journey back to my house. I felt better, but at the same
time I didnt know how I was going to tell Daphne about Bob, Ron, and most of all, Nancy and
Jim. I suppose Id cross that bridge when I got there.
I took a deep breath to calm my nerves. It felt good knowing there was a degree of
closure. Nancy, Ron, and Jimbos deaths were avenged. Joseph Kion was dead, and the world
was a much safer place without him. On the brighter side, my wife and my two boys were safe. I
just needed to get Lane back, then we can all be together.
Minutes into our walk, Ranger barked and ran ahead of us. We watched him halt and
sniff something. As we got closer, I could see that it was a person. I only hoped it wasnt another
Volkson.
Its Ralick, Devena said.
I smiled. Ralick survived as well, but judging by how he lay on the ground holding
himself, I didnt think he was going to last much longer. His gunshot wound looked to be
infected, and some of the snow definitely had gotten into his body and was eating away at him.
Ralick opened his eyes and looked up at me. Hello there. Whats your name? he asked.

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At first, I didnt know why he was asking my name, but I remembered that he was off in
the head a little. My name is Zimmery, Zimmery Mac, but you can call me Zim.
Ralick struggled to get up, so Devena, Russell, and I helped him the rest of the way. Oh,
thank you, uhmm, Zim, right?
Yeah, I answered.
Ralick nodded and took a gander at the view around us.
Crazy day, aint it? I asked.
He shrugged.
Ralick, youre hurt pretty bad.
He shrugged again. Ill be around for a few more hours. No biggie.
No way was I going to let him bleed out here. Listen, my house cant be too far from
here, I said. If we head north, we should be able to make it in time to get Ralick some help.
Akin, you got anything to patch him up?
Akin began to drag Chris again and pulled out the phone he took from out of Chriss
pocket. I still have a signal, he said. If I can get in contact with some of our men, we might be
able to shave off some serious time. I just hope some of them are still alive.
I nodded and tried to assist Ralick by helping him along as we followed Akin. Seconds
later, the phone rang. We stopped when Akin did and watched him check the phones caller ID.
Thats weird, Akin said. I dont recognize this number.
Its Chriss phone, Devena said.
This phone is different. Only a handful have this number, and I know them all, except
this one.
Answer it, I said.

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Akin pressed the call button. Hello?

We watched as his eyes went still. They grew with every passing second. What? I
asked. Who is it? Akin started to say who it was until a strange hum in the distance caught our
attention. Akin lowered the phone and looked at me with confusion.
What the hell is that? Russell asked.
The hum grew louder, became more vocal, then transformed into a choir of children
singing.
The six of us, including Ranger, turned in multiple directions, trying to locate the origin
of the singing. Ralick tilted his head, then poked me in the shoulder. Zim, Zim. I think I hear
my son.
I whipped my head around to face him, then gave him a curious frown. Your son?
Shush, Akin said. Listen.
The sound of the childrens choir drew closer; its creepiness sent a jagged tingle down
my back. I couldnt tell if the songs were some old Christmas stuff like Deck The Halls or
Frosty The Snowman or a combination of both.
A cold burst of wind hit us from behind. We turned around and saw a vague image
approach us. A tall lanky stick figure with four, no, five little balls on both sides of it came
toward us as the song continued to chime in the air.
The tall image turned into a person wearing a blue hooded coat with white puff balls of
cotton around the edges of its hood; cotton puffs also went around the figures short sleeves. Its
arms were skinny, dark grey, smothered in a labyrinth of veins, and covered in black scars with a
bunch of unreadable words carved into its dead-like flesh.

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Cotton puffs went around the bottom of the figures coat, too. I couldnt make out the
face due to the swirling winds that carried the snow to and fro. The five balls on each side of the
tall person were small children. A set of twins, a white boy and a white girl, followed on the left.
Lagging behind on the right was a little black girl, an older and taller Indian boy, and a six-yearold Mexican girl who held a six-foot-tall ice sculpted scythe.
They looked so lifeless, pitch black eyes with no pupils, grey skin, and pale hair replaced
what were once their natural skin tones and hair colors. Each one wore their Nitro gear, except
for certain piecesmissing hats, boots, and gloves. Long IV lines protruded out of the hooded
figures forearms and sank into the childrens wrist.
As the six got closer, I knew who they were. The hooded figure wore a white mask with
slanted, hollow eyes and a thin smile. My heart jumped out of my chest. I could feel my blood
boiling from anxiety alone.
Russell backed up and covered his mouth while Vera clinched his arm. My God,
Russell muttered.
Devena whimpered, bent over, and grinded her teeth as the little black girl stepped
forward. Ralick, a few inches ahead of me, ignored the flow of blood oozing out of his side, yet
his head wobbled at the sight of the zombified children.
The cute Mexican girl stepped ahead of the black girl, holding that horrid weapon in her
chucky little palms. She smiled, but it wasnt filled with happiness at all. It was an emotionless
mind warping expression that only a sick freak could induce on a helpless little angel;
nevertheless, that helpless little angel sang as loud as her peers did.

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I cringed; her black eyes made it harder for me to hold my composure. I felt the sly finger
of the snow caress the sole of my boot, begging me to do something stupid. I didnt care. How
could I?
The reason I was out here, the reason we all were out here, stood in front of us. The
Snowoman, the children of the other parents, and my sweet precious little girl, Lane, was right in
front of me.
Hi, Zimmy, the Snowoman said. Say hi to Mr. Mac and the others, kids.
Hi, Mr. Mac and others, the kids said in unison.
Horror and awe overtook me as the Snowoman laughed. She peered straight at me, then
cocked her head. What? I told you I was on my way, didnt I?

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Chapter Twelve
January 7, 2050

The wind blew harder and the snow rumbled underneath us. I didnt know if it was us or
the Snowoman causing it. It didnt matter. All of us were stomped, frozen in time. What were we
supposed to do? My Lane was standing in front of me with that weapon in her hand. Why? Why
did it matter? What mattered was getting my hands on her, pulling her away from that god-awful
monster.
Ranger growled but didnt advance. Ju-Junior, Ralick said. Before I could conjure up a
solution to the dilemma, Ralick held up his rifle and began firing. No! I shouted, thinking he
was going to hit the kids. Four snow tentacles rose and prevented the bullets from hitting any of
the children or the Snowoman.
Impossible.
What in the blazing fu
Several snow tentacles launched in front of us and swatted our weapons away. I rolled to
the left and went straight for the Snowoman. My body went automatic; a second small wind
overtook me. I was going in for the kill, for my baby. I heard sloshing sounds and screams
behind me, but I didnt look back. I pulled out my ice axe and tried to strike the Snowoman, but
the snow pulled me under until only my head and the arm I held the axe with were all that was
exposed.
The Snowoman walked toward me, grabbed the axe, froze it, then broke it in half. My
jaw dropped, and the snow dragged me away until I ended back with the rest of the group, also

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neck deep under the snow. I ended up next to a bloody Ralick; one of his arms was free, but his
wound had gotten worse.
Russell, Vera, Akin, and Devena wrestled in the snowy deep while Ranger backed up and
lowered his head. Chris still lay on the surface of the snow. My body felt like it was being
squeezed by a giant snake. I could barely breathe. The Snowoman approached us, then stood
there shaking her head.
Was that necessary? she asked.
Vera whipped her head around and yelled, Johnny, Johnny say something!
He didnt flinch for a moment.
Vera hissed at the Snowoman as she stared at us with those hollow eyes, so did the
children. You whore, Vera said. You let him go. Let my son go.
Seeing the Snowoman show neither remorse nor any type of emotion for that matter,
Veras cries ceased and swung down into a panting frenzy. From where I was, I could see Ralick
gaze at the Indian Boy, slack-jawed.
What do you want? I asked the Snowoman.
Well, I wanted to congratulate you before you tried to go all apeshit on me.
Congratulate me?
Yassss boo.
Boo? This was too weird, and it took me by surprise. This didnt sound like the
Snowoman I talked to a few days ago. Her tone was different. It was joyful, happy. She coughed
a little, then it escalated into a full blown one.
Couhhhaooh sorry, sorry Zimmy. Im coming down with a cold. This weather, I tell
ya.

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Snowoman, Devena said in a shallow tone. Give me back my daughter?

Oh, Devena. You? Oh, girrrllll you arent in any position to make demands. Besides,
this part isnt for you. Its for Zimmy, here.
This subdued state was getting to me. First my legs, then my chest, and finally my arms
went numb. M-me?
Yasss boo. See, Ive been watching you, Zimmy, for a long time. She walked behind us
and tugged at the kids IV lines, making them follow after her. Ive taken a lot of kids, made a
lot of grown macho men cry because of it. But the sad part, though, most of them never went the
extra mile, never put it all on the line to get their kids back. Some waited the snow out, some just
gave up, even those with connections to the authorities didnt do all I knew they could.
I tried everyone, normal people, higher ups; a lot of them didnt have the balls to go the
extra mile to save their kids. Its sad, to be honest, and those who did try to go out in this weather
and do something, well, they didnt last.
She ended up back where she started and looked down at each of us, and the rest of the
kids huddled back to their previous positions.
But you guys, she said. You Zimmy, you rocked it hard, sweetie. You did what a
father should do, and you survived. Nothing is more attractive. I mean, to be truthful, I was
waiting for you to call Lanes number. I wanted to get a read on you and gave the usual threats,
blah, blah, blah, but what impressed me was that you proved yourself, you all did.
A bear attack, neo-Nazis, one of the Kions playing body snatcher, beating the Grudge
and that freaking Shiva sculpture. I thought you were dead meat after that, but you still made it
out alive. Ive never seen anything like it.
Insane, I couldnt comprehend how she knew all of this?

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You guys need to understand. I like what I do because its fun, she said, putting a hand
on her hip. But I think Im teaching humanity a lesson also. How far will we go to save and
protect those we love, hmmm? I think Im helping mankind out by doing what I do. I think.
I was losing hope until I saw you all. I told myself, this year for my New Years
resolution, Im going to reward a parent or a guardian, whatever you want to call it, a chance to
get their kids back from me. If they went the extra mile, and you sure as hell did that, Zimmy,
Devena, and that cutie pie Russell over there with that tramp.
Russell leaned back in shock, then glanced at Vera, just as shocked but with a dab of
resentment in her eyes.
Sadly, I can only reward one of you for your bravery, and that has to be Zimmy. After
what youve been through back at that house, with Kion, the bear, the Volksons, you really need
a break. So heres what Im going to do.
The Snowoman snapped her fingers and Lane came forth.
You can have my favorite little girl, Lane, back if you complete one last test for me,
please.
I didnt want to ask what that test would be nor her mentioning it to me, but my baby girl
was at stake. I swallowed the cold ache in my throat and asked, Wh-what?
Pick a parent here to die in exchange for your daughter.
My brain almost exploded when I heard that, and I saw the daunting expressions on the
others faces. Russell had a slight look of awe on his, but Devena, her jaw was ready to hit the
snow. Akin carried a stern stare, then glared my way. Vera looked over at everyone, not knowing
how to react. Ralick weaved in and out of reality, bopping his head up and down. This was a
complete mindscrew. Was this woman serious? Was she?

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I turned back to the Snowoman and looked at each of the kids, especially my Lane.
What did you do to them?
Oh, dont worry about these little munchkins, Zimmy. These frozen bodies the snow
made of them keeps them alive. Its like cryostats but portable.
You didnt hurt them did you?
Meh, I didnt do my usual punishment if thats what youre asking. I wanted to at times,
but your daughter is so, well, how can I put it?
I bit my lip, incensed with anger.
Lovely, she said.
Lovely?
Lanes gruesome smile widened.
For a six-year-old, she has such a remarkable personality, the Snowoman said. She
has been so calm since shes been with me, not like the other children, or any for that matter,
another testament to your parenthood, Zimmy. She made sure my head was in the right place.
Im going to miss her for that.
The Snowoman stuck her finger out and drew an invisible line across each of us. Now,
who shall it be? Pick one, Zimmy. Ralick? Chris? That one should be easy. Russell? Well, not
Russell. Hes too cute, but you can substitute him for this tramp right here.
Veras face turned tomato red.
Or Devena, the Snowoman said.
I paused again, not registering this womans boldness. Whats she thinking? Whats she
planning?
No, I said. I wont pick anyone.

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She sighed and shook her head. Youre just going to chance this?
How do I know I can trust you? How do I know you wont just kill us rig
You think Im lying?
Her voice got deep.
You think Im one of the many gutless liars who have to use such degrading means to
get ahead in life?
The snow began to quiver. The group and I looked at it as it pulsed with rage, yet it didnt
swallow us whole or attack us in any fashion. A hard lump grew in my throat as the rumbling of
the snow sent an unsettling tingle up my legs and into my lungs.
No, no, I hate liars, the Snowoman continued, and I hate it when people put me in
that goddamn category.
The snow moaned, then growled like a wounded beast. My God, was she doing this? She
had to be. I mean, the timing of it all was too coincidental. I didnt want to believe so, but I knew
this chick was off.
I didnt want her to take out her anger on the children or us if such a thing was possible.
Tremors infected me; my body didnt move an inch. I had to stop whatever this was. I swallowed
the lump in my throat and forced the desired words out of my mouth. Okay, okay, Im sorry.
She leaned back, paused, then shook her hands with a wildness. Im sorry, too, I didnt
mean to scream, she said, panicky. Its just that I get sooooo wrapped up in my work. II
forget you all are just kids yourselves.
The snow ceased its agitated groan, then the calm air of winters breath blew through us
mortals with a forgiving sigh. The others exhaled and swallowed the lingering fear in their own
throats.

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Okay, okay, I understand, the Snowoman said, tilting her head. I was wrong about
you. You dont have what it takes to be a true father, I guess. She sighed and tapped her foot
against the snow; the kids laughed and mimicked her demeanor. I guess Ill take care of her
myself and leave you here to die.
The lump in my throat returned with a vengeance. No, no, wait.
Goodbye, Zimmy. Say goodbye to the coward, children.
The kids, including Lane, waved at us and said goodbye as they were instructed. Devena,
Vera, Russell, and I cried out at the top of our lungs as the children left our presence.
No, no, come back! Vera yelled.
Stop, stop, Alex, Alexis, hey! Russell shouted.
Devena squalled at the sight of her baby walking away from her.
Those aching moments I had back in the cave, the memories of my past, the car ride Lane
and I shared, it hit me in the face with every step she took away from me. How could I let her
go?
I couldnt let her go. Damn the Snowoman, damn the snow, the weather, these people. I
couldnt pick any of them. I wasnt that kind of man, but what kind of father was I? What kind of
man would let some psycho walk away with his child after that nut offered to give her back?
No, no, I couldnt let that happen, but I didnt know how to fix it. I didnt know. The
wind gust started to cover their tracks. Lane turned back into that little ball she once was before
she was inches within my grasp. I failed her. After everything that happened, I failed her.
Uhhaaoohh, Ralick said, his eyes rolled around until they made contact with me.

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After I lost sight of the children, I dropped my head to the ground and bawled. Ralick
coughed blood my way and wheezed. Zim, he said, breathing hard, gasping for every speck of
air he could grab onto. Zim, I forgot to tell you it was nice meeting you.
I didnt respond; I didnt want to hear him talk. I just wanted Lane back. Zimmery Mac,
look at me my friend, he said.
I tried to look at him through my peripherals and saw a dim glimmer in his eye. His chest
was pouring red. I turned back toward the white abyss in front of me. Flashes of Lane popped in
like subliminal messages. I shouldve tried harder, thought quicker, sacrificed myself.
Wait, wait, myself?
I shouldve exchanged my life for Lanes.
The others could take her back; watch over her. What did the Snowoman say? How far
would a parent go? How far would I go? I had to show her. Was it wrong? Hell yes. Essential?
Hell yes. I grinded my teeth and shouted as loud as I could.
Snowoman, Snowoman, come back, please! Ive chosen someone, me. Kill me! Please,
come back. Bri-bring my Lane back. Snowoman, give me back my Lane, dammit!
Devena stopped crying, looked at me and turned straight to see if the Snowoman heard
me. Russell, Vera, and Akin did the same, but nobody came back.
Shit! Damn! Bastard! Christ!
I lost my edge; every ounce of energy gained from that second wind was gone. I couldnt
scream anymore, couldnt get mad anymore. I just cried, moaned, hung like a lost toy in a deep
heap of white dust.
Ralick coughed up more blood and sniffed the rest dripping from his nostrils. I forgot. I
forgot to tell you my name was Ralick. Ralick ... Uh ... Oh, I forgot, I dont have a last name.

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I watched as he lowered his head in blank confusion. Seconds later, he threw out a hard
laugh while tears rolled down his eyes. Hee-hee-ha, I dont have a last name. My parents never
gave me one. In fact, I think my parents gave me away. Hee-hee, nobody ever gave me anything.
Nobody cared. Ha-ha-haaa-heee. Ralick sobbed and giggled and couldnt seem to stop. I had
to fight my entire life for every little thing because nobody cared. Hee-ha-ha-eee.
That was the part people got to right before they died. I knew because Id been there. Id
been there with the bear attack, with the Volkson attack, with the battles against the Grudge and
Shiva. Hell, I was there now, but I couldnt do anything about it at the moment.
I started to think about all that happened in my life, trying to find something to be proud
of, trying to find something that I could cherish and hold onto. Hoping maybe whatever that was
would keep me alive. Thats what got me through and it probably got the rest of us through, too.
Not this time. This time I let it walk right out of my face before I gave it another thought.
For Ralick, it was different. Despite my pain, I felt sorry for him. I soaked up my tears and
pursed my lips before saying, Thats not true. I care about you, Ralick.
He looked at me and smiled. You do?
Yeah, bud. I do.
The rest of the group watched as we had our moment; sounds of the cold wind whisked
pass us.
Ralick pulled a picture of someone out from the hood of his fur coat. Why he put it there
was anyones guess. Have you met my son?
I looked down at a picture of a sullen little boy. It was the Indian kid that was with the
others. The boy looked just like Ralick in the picture but a smaller version of him.
You wouldve liked him. After all, she likes him a whole lot.

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Ralick gazed at the snowy ground and scribbled something in it with his bare hand. His
finger began to bleed as it glided through the white death. No, no, I muttered, low on fuel. I
took my free hand and grabbed Ralicks to make him stop, but he didnt. He forcibly continued
to draw the picture.
Finally, he stopped. My eyes went wide when I saw what hed drawn. It was a picture of
a snowman. Ralick took his bloody finger out of the snow and pointed at me.
Zim, please, if you care about me, get my boy back; let him have a life better than mine.
Please, Zim, dont let her take away R Junior. Dont let her take away the only thing that I did
right, Ralick said, crying.
He grabbed my hand and gave me the picture of his boy.
I cant, Ralick, I said. I failed.
After that, he smiled. No, you havent.
Soon after, another gust of wind blew pass us. The snow crackled. Oh my God, Russell
said.
I turned forward and saw the Snowoman and the children walk toward us; this was it. My
heart felt like it was punching the inside of my chest.
Ralick closed his eyes and began to sing that old 1950s ice cream tune again.
Ohuuuoooouuuu, bring me a dream, bring me a dream.
The Snowoman, Lane, and the others made their way back to us. So, I heard you chose
someone, the Snowoman said.
I gulped and looked her dead in the eye. Me.
She didnt move a muscle. I didnt know if she cared or my decision was unexpected or
expected. Either way, I was dead, but Lane would be free.

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Explain that decision for me, pleeeease, she said. Im having a brain fart.
I have family and friends that will watch after her.
Tilting her head back, the Snowoman let my answer hang in the air.
You said pick someone, I said. So Im picking myself. Take my life and let Lane and
the others go.
Oh, no, no, no, no, no, Zimmy. Dont get cocky righteous. Your life isnt worth that
much.
I sighed and gave her the hardest frown I could muster. Taking that chance was hopeless
on every single level, but it was worth the shot. My mind wouldnt let me look at Russell, Vera,
Devena, or Ralick.
After watching the Snowoman ponder over my decision, she giggled, then shrugged. She
snapped her fingers, and Lane stepped forward, cocking the long scythe back. My frown dropped
into a paralyzing stare as Lane smiled, wielding that unholy blade in her hands. This demonic
woman would let my own daughter take my life so that I could set her free. I wouldnt even
know if it had worked, yet she was going to make my Lane end me.
When she grew up, and God please let her, what would people tell her? What would
Daphne, Zach, Micky, my sister and her husband think? What would she think of herself?
Ralick continued to sing that stupid song. Ohuuuoooouuuu, bring me a dream, bring me
a dream.
The Snowoman shrugged Lanes IV line, making my babys shoulder jerk. Say
goodbye, Daddy, the Snowoman told Lane.
Goodbye, Daddy, Lane said, smiling.
Tears poured from my eyes. Goodbye, precious.

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Vera and Devena squealed. Ralick continued to sing his tune. Lane swung the blade. I
closed my eyes and saw Daphne smile at me, along with my boys; then Jim, Ron, Nancy, Carl,
my mother, my father, my red-headed sister; then Isabella, Devena, Russell, Akin, Chris, the
Grudge, Ralick, Bob, Kion, Ranger, the children, my Lane. I heard the smooth slice of the blade
against flesh and bone, then felt a huge splash of thick liquids hit the side of my face.
Clumps of soft pieces of something, rolled down my cheek and some down my lip. The
taste of the fluids was hard and metallic; the small clumps of whatever accompanied the fluids
smelled like stale fish and tasted like bitter pieces of uncooked pork. I managed to open my eyes
and saw a field of red. Blood covered Lanes body and some of it was on the other kids, too.
Devena, Vera, and Russell were gasping like fish out of water. I didnt see Akin or Ranger, but
to my right was a headless Ralick.
His neck looked like a volcano erupted; blood engulfed what was left of his neck and the
rest of this body. The snow sucked large patches of the blood up; as a result, my face quivered. I
turned my attention back to my emotionless but smiley face daughter, holding that blood stained
scythe in her hands.
My body tried to make me vomit, but hardly anything was left in my stomach. Yet it tried
and tried, and it hurt every time. I coughed and gagged at the sight before me, and the others
followed suit. Snot mixed with tears was smeared all over Veras and Devenas faces. Russell
and Akin were figuratively frozen sold.
The Snowoman wrapped a thumb around Lanes IV and made her hold the weapon
straight. The Snowoman lifted her mask, exposing only a pale, scarred mouth with crimson
vampire teeth, then licked the blood from off the tip of the scythe with her black tongue.

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The Snowoman took the Indian boys IV line and gave it a squeeze, causing him to walk
over to Lane and take the scythe from her. The Snowoman unhooked Lanes line from her ugly
arms, then blew kisses at each of us. The kids, excluding Lane, did the same. The Snowoman
gave Russell a special gesture by blowing him a kiss, then making a sexually oral gesture with
her hand.
The kids, excluding Lane, did the same. It made me extra sick. The Snowoman pointed at
me and waved. Now thats attractive.
She and the children walked off, leaving Lane and the rest of us here.
Wait, wait, Devena said. Snowoman, what about my daughter? What about Pam?
Give her back. Ill kill myself for her.
The Snowoman ignored her. Vera shouted back. Both mothers pleaded, begged. I could
only watch Lane stand like a zombie in front of me. The gust of wind returned, and a thick fog
removed the Snowoman and her captives from our sight.
I didnt know how much time passed between all the crying and my blissful yet shellshocked expression, but the realization that a group of Chriss guards arriving, riding in on motor
sleds and digging us out of the snow pits, didnt seem to register with me until Lanes cold, hard
shell began to break apart.
Akin groused and niggled; sounds of the snow sloshing around him made my head turn.
He managed to crawl out of the pit after the snow softened. Chriss men helped a sunken-faced
Russell, a bawling Vera, and a vexed Devena out of the pits, too.
The guards didnt touch Ralicks headless corpse. I took off my coat as soon as I was
freed, wrapped it around Lanes body, and picked her up. Chriss men looked as if they didnt
know whether to lead me somewhere or let me be, but they dare didnt touch my little girl.

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I held her as tight as I could before crying. I didnt have my fur coat on anymore, so the
snow could still finish me. I turned around and saw the other parents regain some kind of
composure. Akin said something to the surviving men and pointed to Chriss body bag.
Ranger got up from his frighten bow and walked over to me with these puppy dog eyes as
if he failed me. I didnt care. I got what I wanted. I got my baby back, Lane. I felt her breath hit
the side of my neck. Oh, it felt so good. The frozen skin melted off her, revealing a healthy,
sound asleep little girl.
I hid her face from the sight of Ralick. It was strange; it felt like I lost yet another family
member, even though I only knew the man for a few days. Out of all the guys, he was the only
one who truly saved me. I saw another one of Chriss guards arrive with Ralicks crossbow. He
mustve found it out there in the snow somewhere. This belongs to anyone? he asked, holding
it up.
No one said a thing. I raised my hand and he ran over to hand it to me; afterwards, I slung
it over my shoulder. Akin pushed some of the snow over the top of Ralicks body, trying to bury
him properly.
Akin? one of the guards said.
He ignored him and kept on plopping snow on top of Ralick. After seeing that he wasnt
getting attacked, Russell pitched in. Soon after, so did the other guards. Vera and Devena were
escorted to two four seat motor sleds.
For some reason, the snow didnt bother us, even though my emotions were running high.
The snow let Akin do what needed to be done. I didnt know if it was our fur coats or the
scary theory that this entity did have a conscience. In any case, he took advantage of the situation
and used the snow to bury Ralick. After he did, Ralicks body sank farther down, as if the snow

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respected our wishes and finished the job for us without aggression. I think that confirmed my
scary theory.
Akin brushed the remainder specks of snow off his gloves and walked over to me.
Several of the guards took Chris and put him in the back of one of the motor sleds.
Hey, Akin said, he glanced at Lane. Is she
I nodded and kissed her on the back of the head. My eyes were so watery it felt like they
were brokenfrom relief. Akin escorted me to another four seat motor sled. Can you give me
the directions to your house? Akin asked.
I nodded and we got in the sled. I told them the coordinates and the driver punched it into
the sleds custom built GPS. Ranger got in with us before we took off. As we rode toward my
home, the sun came out and calmed the snow.
There were no snowflakes, only a beautiful winter scene. The sun shined brightly and the
air was quiet and cool. It felt normal again. The sky had a color of red and yellow mashed in with
blue.
I wished Lane was up to see this. Wait, no, no, this was good enough. She was here with
me, at last. This time I wouldnt let her out of my sight. I watched her sleep. Her natural,
beautiful golden skin returned to normal color. By the time we arrived at my house, I felt the
fatigue plummet down on me. I got out and entered the code to open the garage. Maybe Daphne
and my boys made it back, too. We stepped in; it was quiet.
The rest of my family wasnt here, but at least they were safe. Vera came in still in tears.
Devenas face had a certain equanimity to it, an acceptance, like the end of one round and the
start of another. She was a solider after all, and she wasnt going to give up.

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As soon as she recovered, she would continue the search for Pam. As will Akin and Vera
for the search for Johnny. Russell will keep going for the twins, though he might just be doing it
to keep from getting chewed out by Janet.
There was still Ralicks son but if they found the others, they would found him, too. As
for me, I was tired, worn out, done, finished.
Akin ran up to me and asked, Zim, you got some sheets, pillows, some medical
supplies?
I nodded toward the kitchen like an eighty-year-old man on a rocking chair. Just dont
enter any closed rooms.
Akin mustve seen the gravity on my face because he stared at me and Lane for several
seconds without movement. I could tell he was appalled by what he witnessed her do. Once a
guard tapped him on his shoulder, he nodded and darted off.
I heard Vera sob, but I didnt care. I couldnt think about them or anyone else right now
except for Lane. I went up the stairs and put Lane in her bed, then took out the red bear she lost
in the snow and set it beside her.
I rubbed the water from off her face and watched as she rolled on her back. I went to grab
a small chair, but my reflection in her mirror caught me. I didnt stare too long because I was
afraid I might scare myself to death with how I looked.
From what I did see, it was ugly stress. I pulled up the chair next to Lane, watched her,
rubbed her hair, then started to cry again. I did it. I got you back, I muttered.
Daddy? A little six-year-old girl whispered.
I stopped and held my breath. Time halted. I couldnt believe it. Was this real? I got up,
closed the door, and locked it. I needed this moment without interference.

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Daddy, the little girl said again.

Lane?
Lane sat up, wiped her eyes, broke out into a big smile, then hugged me. Daddy!
I smiled from ear to ear and embraced her, kissing her on her cheeks, her forehead, even
her eyelids, over and over again until my lips dried up. She didnt resist; she let me have the
moment. Oh, baby, oh, Lane, how are you precious?
Good.
Im ... Im.
Daddy? You okay?
Im, yessaahughah, Im okay. Im just so happy to see you, baby. I love you.
I love you, too, Daddy.
I took her cute face into my palms and kiss her nose. Are you hungry? Thirsty?
She shook her head. So where was you?
I was out there looking for you?
Oh, I was just outside playing in the snow.
Do ... do you remember how you got out there?
Uhmm, no.
Good, I assumed that if she didnt remember how she got out into the snow, she didnt
remember what happened to Ralick. Thank God my eyes were closed during that act. I vowed to
never speak of that incident to her, ever. In fact, I didnt want to think about.
Are you mad at me, Daddy?
Oh, baby no, no, no, Lane, never. Im just glad youre okay.
Ms. Snowoman found me and took me back home after she got us some ice cream.

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Oh, okay. Did she ... did she touch you? You know, you remember what Mommy and
Daddy talked to you about, about the parts of the body people arent supposed to touch you at?
Nooo.
You sure?
Yeah.
I raised my head to the sky, thanking the Lord for such a reply.
Daddy, why you asking so many funny questions?
Well, I just want to make sure you were okay.
A loud banging erupted from down the stairs, followed by some loud chatter. Daddy,
whos downstairs?
Oh, just the people who helped me found you, the other kids daddies and mommies.
Theyre looking for their kids, too?
Yeah, baby. They are.
Cool, I get to meet Pams mommy.
Pam?
Shes my friend. Well, they all are, but Pam is my best friend. She likes Red Bear, too.
Oh, oh, thats good.
Do you know Pams mommy, Daddy
II do, dear.
Shes not mad at you like Stepmama is, right?
I chuckled between my sobs. Uh no, no, shes not. Were good friends.
Ooooh, are you and Pams mommy best friends?
I stopped and glanced at the door and thought about Devena. Yes, sweetie, we are.

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So cool. Pam said we can come over her house when the winter is over.
Oh, okay, well have to do that.
Ms. Snowoman cooked us some pancakes when you were looking for me.
Uh, huh?
They was good too.
Oh, youve had some?
No, no, no, please say no.
Yep.
Shit, okay, maybe its not too bad.
You didnt feel funny afterwards right?
Nope.
Okay, thats good news, I guess.
Daddy?
Yes, baby?
Is Micky and Zach still at the store?
Yeah, theyre okay. Theyll be back when the snow dies down.
Is Uncle Jim, Ron, and Auntie Nancy here?
So she didnt remember what Kion did, unless he was messing with me, but for a guy like
him, I doubted it. I couldnt tell her what happened to the rest of them. Not now.
Uh, they went home, baby.
Why?
Its a long story. Ill tell you when you get older.

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Lane raised a reckoning eyebrow at me. A six-year-old raised an eyebrow at me; it was
kind of funny in a way.
She shrugged, then yawned. Oh, okay, and Stepmama, too?
Oh, lord, how could I break that to her? And Stepmama, too.
Is she still mad at you, Daddy, like the snow is mad at everybody?
Yes, baby, she is.
You gonna fix it?
I knew she was asking these things because of what happened days before. Something I
never wanted her to see again. I will, I said.
I dont want her mad at you anymore, she said.
She wont be.
I dont want the snow to be mad at anyone anymore either.
Well, I cant do anything about the snow, honey.
The snow likes Ms. Snowoman.
Really?
How was that possible?
Yeah, she fixed it, like you will with Stepmama, right Daddy?
Uh, yeah, I will.
Hee hee.
Heahah, uh, I got Red Bear back, baby. You dropped it outside. I held it up to her, and
she gleamed with joy. She swiped it from my hands and hugged it tighter than she ever did me. I
chuckled and rubbed her head.
Daddy, you look tired.

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I am, precious.
Wanna sleep in here with me?
Sure.
I took off my Nitro gear and got in the bed with her. Once my face contacted the pillow,
my eyes dropped. I let the warmth of the bed take away my pain, my stress, and every ounce of
contempt in me. I didnt want to think about anything. I wanted to just be with Lane and sleep.
Daddy?
Mhmm?
Lanes struggled to keep her eyes open, too. You wanna sing the song, Daddy? she
whispered.
Uh, the song, the I Love You Song? Uh, sure, honey.
As soon as we sang that song, we both were going to knockoutgood.
Lets go, ready? she asked softly.
Ready.
I love you, you love me, too. Lane loves Daddy, very, very muchvery, very much. I
love you, you know its true. Daddy loves Laaaane, very, very muchvery, very much.
I love you, you love me, too. Lane loves Daddy, very, very muchvery, very much.
I love you, you know its true.
Daddy loves Laaaane.
Very, very much.
Very, very much.
And from there, the calm darkness took us both.

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Winter / Ran

231

An Original Short Story by Reece Ran

ROMACOVINA

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Chapter One

It was the year 2016. The Russian Federation had been struggling against a rising threat
for more than four years. The danger of domestic terrorist attacks in the North Caucasus region
had been a threat since the 1990s. But now one of the leaders in this rebel faction, Kermen Zolin,
had become an outspoken seditionistand a tyrant among the people of Romacovina Island, off
the coast of both Russia and North Korea in the Sea of Japan, where he had set up his new
headquarters. Zolin was guilty of murdering government officials in several embassies and
organizing bombings in several large churches around the world.
Now, though, Kermen Zolin and his followersthe Zolinites, as they had been dubbed in
the international presswere aiming for a much bigger target to get their point across. That was
why Interpol, the US CIA, British SIS, Russian SVR, and other agencies got involved. They
deduced from an inside source that Kermen Zolin planned to launch an attack on at least one of
the kremlinscitadelslocated in various cities throughout Russia.
Kermen had been preaching that Russia was only a shadow of its former self, before the
Soviet Union had dissolved, and therefore was unable to provide stability for its people. Thus, it
had to be replaced by a new orderor wiped out completely.
The people of Russia were nearly divided perfectly in half in their opinion of Kermen
with opposition and supporters being almost the same in number. Zolin knew this, which was
why he posted a video online about his planned attacks on a kremlinas he knew that
information had already been leaked from someone inside his faction. The video went viral in
less than twelve hours. It ended up getting more than eight million views on the first weekend

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alone, plus the thousands of posts on social media sites that happened at the same time. British
SIS tried to trace the IP address, but it proved unsuccessful.

Danielle Carter, the head of SIS at the time, began direct coordination with the SVR and
CIA. Danielle was a strong-hearted woman but still had the feminine qualities to handle such a
delicate situation. A video conference call between the SIS and the CIA got the ball rolling
shortly after the Zolin video went online.
This is a US problem, too, Carter said. In fact, the US is directly involved with the rise
of Kermen Zolin.
How is that? asked one of the CIA representatives.
Thanks to the influence of your American-made social media websites, Zolins message
has sparked a rebellion against the Russian Federation that stretches all the way into China and
Britain.
As if that makes us responsible for Zolins actions and the results that followed. Look,
we have enough problems of our own, so if you really need us, let us know. Otherwise, good
luck.
And with that, the CIA ended its side of the call. Carter looked at her second in
command, Charlie Bond.
I want to set up a meetingin personwith some SVR reps to figure out how to best
stop Zolin, Danielle said.
Consider it done, Bond said as he tapped away on his tablet. But, bottom line, I think
we need to suggest a joint mission between SIS and the SVRto send a couple of agents to
infiltrate the Zolinites and take down Kermen Zolin from the inside.

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Carter said nothing for a moment, then nodded. Okay, I can go with that.
These agents should have experience in undercover espionage and a high missioncompletion rank, Bond said.
Whom did you have in mind?

234

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Chapter Two

Meanwhile, in Ryazan, Russia, a couple slept in bed after a night of intimacy. A cell
phone rang on the nightstand, and the man sat up and looked at caller the ID: Home, it read.
Not already, he thought, then answered the call. What time is it?
Time to save the world, said the person on the other end.
Again? The man groaned. I believe you mean its more like stopping history from
being made here.
He ended the call and got out of the bed, leaving behind the woman hed met last
evening. As he dressed, though, she awoke.
Where are you going? the woman asked from the bed, stifling a yawn. She leaned
forward, slid a hand out from beneath the covers, and ran her fingers down his back.
To keep you alive so you can get old, the man replied.
What? she said, lying back down with her head on the pillow. I dont I dont
She yawned. I dont know what you mean.
He said nothing, but finished dressing, then grabbed his pistol from where hed hidden it
in the bathroom when he got to her apartment last night. He looked back at the woman, who was
almost asleep again.
But you wont be getting old with me, the man said and then walked out.

In Tokyo, a Japanese man meditated with incense burning at his side at the break of
dawn. Then the warble of his cell phone interrupted his silence. He grimaced as he looked at the
caller ID.

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Hello? he answered.
Wheels up in thirty minutes, came the reply.
If you say so.
The Japanese man got up, changed his clothes, and picked up his travel bag before
leaving his apartment.

Both of the men arrived at SIS in London at the appointed time.

Gentlemen, Danielle greeted them as they entered.
The two men took seats at the table where Danielle Carter, Charlie Bond, and several
other SIS agents already sat.
Everybody, Carter said, this is Agent Vladimir Pike of the SVR and our own Agent
Shituzaki Akin.
Pike smirked at Akins name but said nothing. Akin didnt acknowledge the insult.
And this is Agent Charlie Bond, my second and the lead on this mission, Carter said.
Charlie, give us a rundown and then well get to it.
Yes, maam, Bond said. Kermen Zolina citizen of the island nation of Romacovina
since defecting from Russia in recent years. A photo of Zolin appeared on the large screen
behind Carter. As we all know, Zolin has been organizing terrorist attacks around the world for
years. When he lived in the North Caucasus, he joined in their guerrilla war efforts. Now, as
everyone in the world knows thanks to his online video, Zolin has threatened to blow up a
kremlin, but which one, we do not know. Several kremlins still exist across Russia. Moscow,
Kazan, and Novgorod are the three we believe to be the best targets for Zolin.
You expect us to cover all of those areas? Pike asked.

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No, Carter said, but if you two can get inside the Zolinite forces, you can find out
which one they will bomb first.
Fine, Akin said. But in order to do that, well have to go to the source of Zolins
forces straight to the origin of it all.
No shit, Mr. Shit, Pike responded.
Akin just glared at Pike. Were going to have to work together, so lets cut the cute stuff,
huh?
Agreed. Lets stay focused, Carter said. Although, Mr. Pike, I give you credit for
recognizing that Akin is his first name, even though it comes last.
Pike nodded and Bond shook his head.
So, yes, you both have to go to Zolins new homeland of Romacovina, Bond said.
So be it, but how is it even possible? Pike asked. That little island has no diplomatic
relations with any country not to mention its now run by Kordie Cus, son of the late Cashis
Cusa man on par with Stalin himself in terms of brutality, as we all know.
Heres a video clip from a news feature awhile back, not long after Cashis died, Carter
said, then nodded at Bond. Play it, Bond.
Everyone except Akin turned to face the screen as the video began.
Cashis Cus was responsible for the death of nearly one million of his own people in
Romacovinaan independent island nation filled with North Koreans, Somalis, and Russian
immigrants.
The video showed many of these immigrants chanting his name across the lone island.
Cashis Cus stepped up on top of a podium and raised both his arms. The crowd went wild.

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These people thought that Cashis Cus would protect them and alleviate the suffering
they experienced under their former oppressive rulers, Carter continued, but they were wrong.
The video later showed the people of Romacovina protest against Cus. He stood on his
podium with a face red with rage.
When the people asked for a democracyas the United States had been urging the rest
of the world to doCus went crazy. In fact, his exact words were, Were not Americans! We are
better than them! We are better than the world over! Thats when he ordered the genocide of
over one million people who dared oppose him.
The video clip ended with an image of thousands of dead corpses lying in the dirt.
The video screen went black and everyone faced the table again. A few in attendance
looked as if they were going to vomit. Akin didnt even look at the clip.
Since the killings, Carter said, many attacks from South Korea and other opposing
countries have tried to liberate Romacovinabut all failed.
What? Pike said, with a surprised look on his face.
Yes, and weve all wondered the same thing: why?
They dont have any nuclear power or some newfangled high-tech weapons, right?
Not to our knowledge, but there is something biologically unnatural there that makes
them unstoppable. Does everyone here know about Messiah X?
Naturally, Akin said. Who hasnt heard of him, what with all the magazine features,
TV documentaries, journal articles, and viral videos out there about himor her.
A good point, Carter said. It hasnt been confirmed whether X is a man or a woman.
But what we do know is that Messiah X has thousands of followers around the worldmaybe

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hundreds of thousands. In fact, there are so many that some experts say they should be their own
religion.
Yeah, Pike said, another case of a bunch of crazies believing in a man who thinks he is
a godor goddess, I guess, if its a woman.
Bond, run that next clip, Carter said.
The video showed a figure clothed in an off-white cloak and hood, which was so large
that it completely shadowed and obscured the face. The voice came through as mechanical and
genderless, no doubt thanks to some sort of masking device being used.
Notice the numbers under the video, Carter said. Over ninety million subscribers to
the channeland over two billion views for the video. Pay attention to this next part.
Not by any physical man-made weapon, Messiah X said on the video. But nature itself
will protect us. If you are not a citizen, a follower of the New Motherland of Romacovina, then
as soon as you enter our territory by any mode of transportation, you will be destroyedas if
from a lightning bolt by the hand of a god. Notice I didnt say God himself, but a god. Let that be
a lesson to all that oppose our peaceful way of life here.
The video clip paused.
Like I said, another religious nut preaching destruction to everybody. Give me a break,
Pike said. All old news.
Maybe, Bond said, but the scary part about this video is, he was right. Anyone or
anything that has entered Romacovinas airspace was either brought down or destroyed by some
mysterious force. Some people that tried to sneak into Romacovina by boat got sick as soon as
they stepped onto land. They brought back an unknown bacterium that plagued hundredswith
the carrier. All those affected died within forty-eight hours.

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Huh, Pike said, shaking his head. Hadnt heard that part.
We havent let everything leak to the press, Carter said. Whatever they have, it is
powerful, and we believe Zolin might use it on one of the kremlins. Carter turned toward Pike
and Akin. Gentlemen, your mission is to become followers of X and then citizens of
Romacovinato find out how to stop Zolins efforts before its too late.
So I have to dance around like a chimpanzee, screaming, Praise Gawd! to get in?
Pike asked.
Not quite, Carter said with a little smirk.

Pike and Akin both dressed in business suits and went to one of the private temples of the
Romacovinian faith located in Japan. There, they studied the teachings and doctrines of Messiah
X. There was even a volume called The Book of X that taught followers what it would take if
they wanted to be citizens of the so-called New Motherland.
I cant believe we have to do all this, Pike said.
Well, its part of the job, so lets just do it and get it done, Akin responded.
One verse in The Book of X that caught the agents interest mentioned baptism by ice.
What does that mean? Pike asked.
I dont know, Akin said. Its one of the few passages that seems to be ripped
somewhat from the Bible. But the connection to it? I dont know.
I guess we better ask some questions and actually listen to the sermons at these crazy
gatherings, Pike said.
The men studied daily for eight to ten hours at the temple for two weeks, at which time
they were marked by the pastor with a seal of X on both of their forearms.

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Now, my brothers, the pastor said, go to the island of Romacovina, and if you are
chosen, then you will be able to enter and become citizens. If you are not chosen, you may
continue in the way of Messiah X wherever you live.
After leaving the temple, Akin and Pike contacted Carter.
Okay, we are on our way to Romacovina, Pike told her.
Excellent, Carter said and ended the transmission.
Agent Carter, Bond said. You have a video call from the US president.
Click her in, Carter said, then swallowed, wondering why the president would be
contacting her.
Seconds later, US President Elisabeth Marcus was on screen. Agent Carter, the
president said.
Hello, Ms. President. Its an honor to talk to you, Carter said.
The CIA informed me of your plan to infiltrate Romacovina. Would you personally keep
me informed of the mission status every day or two?
Carter raised an eyebrow. With all due respect, Ms. President, shouldnt the prime
minister be informed of this request and then have it channeled to me if its approved?
He already knows, which is why Im talking with you now, President Marcus said.
Besides, this is a matter of national security for us. The CIA has been trying to get in to
Romacovina for some time, believing they have weapons of mass destruction that could change
the way we fight war. At first, we didnt know that this was tied to Zolin.
Carter nodded, but still felt surprised that the president would want to be directly
involved. I understand, Ms. President, Carter said.

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Chapter Three

In Europe, Zolin was sitting in one of the front pews of a large Catholic cathedral when
one of his men walked up to him.
What are you looking at? the man asked.
Zolin pointed a finger upward at the Crucifix above the altar.
Zolins accomplice looked up. Oh, that, the man said.
Ive never seen something so beautiful and yet so true to our causelike a man
embracing his destiny. So the world will know what must happen here, Zolin said. Is
everything on schedule?
Yes, all is in order, the man said.
Good. Now we wait, Zolin set the timer on his watch. Kordie Cus will have no choice
but to follow in his fathers footsteps after this.

Akin and Pike boarded a boat at a private dock in Wajima, Japan, and headed toward the
island of Romacovina. From a distance, they could see that it was a large island, as theyd
already gathered from satellite photos. But now it appeared more real, with a sky of amber rosered over it and thin clouds surrounding it. As they drew closer, they could see that snow wisped
its way down from the cloud cover. It struck the ground and melted.
Just like on the sat photos, Pike said. Its snowing and its not even winter yet.
The boat continued to draw closer to the island; Akin and Pike saw hundreds of other sea
vessels in port. From the markings on the various craft, it appeared they hailed from different

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parts of the world: Africa, Asia, the Middle East. They all had one marking in common, though:
each had a large X on the hull, just like the one theyd noticed on their own boat.
Must be the other potentials coming to be citizens, Akin said.
Then, on the docks, they saw that men in white hoods were speaking with each person
who debarked from the boats.
Judging by what we studied, those must be the priests of the landthe ones that decide
who can enter. If they dont bless us, then we cant go in.
Then well have a problem, Pike said as he slipped a hand inside his coat pocket to
palm the grip of his pistol.
You really think thats going to make a bit of difference? Akin asked.
I dont care what they preach. Its been confirmed that they dont have any weapons. If
we are turned away, then we can sneak in somehow.
Youre not thinking. First off, good luck sneaking in and living to tell about it. Second,
we are here to find out which kremlin Zolin will destroy.
Then Ill go with Plan B: grab one of the priests and take him back with us. Remember
what it said in The Book of X. These people treat their priests like fathers. They value them so
much they will stop and do whatever it takes to assure their safety. If Zolin is for real, then he
wont do anything until the priests are safe. In fact, we should just do that and be done with it.
You forget we shouldnt underestimate the mystery weapon these people have. Theyve
taken out whole armies of people that tried to harm them.
Yeah, plus their last leader killed off more than a third of their already small
population.
Pike sighed. Fine, so well stick with the plan unless things go south.

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After the boat docked, Akin and Pike got out with the others on board. They were met by
one of the priests. Akin noticed that the hoods of the priests covered their faces almost
completely, making it impossible to see any of their facial features.
Greetings, my brothers, the priest said. May I see the mark of the son on your arms?
Both of the agents showed them the X on their forearms.
Very well, you may enter, the priest said.
But then the two agents had to go through a pat-down by the guards waiting at the end of
the dock.
Were screwed, Pike said. No way will they miss the side arms we snuck on in under
our coats.
Agreed, Akin said. So be ready to go with the alternate plan.
Why wait? Pike said.
He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out his pistol even as he leaped toward the
hooded priest that had just granted them entry.
Halt! one of the guards shouted.
At that, all of the guards on the dock produced small assault riflesmade of silver.
So much for that information about the people of Romacovina not having any weapons,
Pike said.
He slipped an arm around the priests neck, and the crowds coming off the boat all started
to scream and shout. The remaining guards then approached Akin and Pike.
Punta Punta Enuich Yetta! one of the guards bellowed.
Sorry, Pike said, we know a lot of languages between the two of us, but not
Romacovinian, buddy.

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Pike then fired a shot in the air to let the guards know he wasnt bluffing. If you
approach me any farther, I will blow this man away.
The guards eyes went wide and they looked at each other, all of them freezing in place.
Pike knew that they didnt want to lose one of their spiritual guides. Akin then stepped up, his
hands raised.
Come on! Pike said. Get back in the boat.
The guards turned their attention to Akin, who took out his gun and put it on the dock.
What are you doing, man? Pike asked.
Im going to end this peacefully, Akin replied, then looked at the guards. Take me as a
hostage if that man takes your priest.
The guards closed their eyes like they were praying, and then proceeded to take Akin into
custody. They kept their rifles trained on him, but didnt use handcuffs or restraints of any kind.
Fine man, Pike said. Your loss.
Pike dragged the priest backward and got back on the boat while the guards took Akin
away. Once safely back on the mainland in Japan, Pike contacted Carter via his SIS-issued cell
phone.
Maam, I have one of the priests, Pike told her.
Okay, but that was Plan B, Carter said.
I know, but it was the only way. Besides, Plan B is faster.
What about Akin?
Capturedand the bad part was he purposely gave himself up.
Why would he do that if there was no other way?
Neither said a word afterwards.

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Odd, Carter said. Well, well keep our ears open in case we hear anything else about
him. Get back here as soon as possible with the priest, Agent Pike.
You got it.
Pike ended the transmission, then pulled out another cell phone and made a call.
Bear Six, code in, the person on the phone said.
Amur River, Pike answered.
Affirmed. Report.
Yeah, its me. I have the target.
Good. Bring the target to us before you take him to SIS.
Copy that.
Good work, Bear Six.
The phone call ended, and Pike put away his cell. The priest smiled and shook his head.
When a man has two faces and one body, only one face can fulfill its destiny.
Pike glanced at the priest. Shut up.

Meanwhile, Romacovinian guards escorted Akin from the coast and took him inland. As
they passed through towns and the countryside in a large truck, Akin considered that
Romacovina looked like a peaceful placenot at all like what the media made it out to be. He
saw forests, orchards, livestock farms, and people talking and working. And the people looked
happy. He studied the locals they passed; Akin realized that nobody appeared to be very old. He
figured he hadnt seen an adult that looked more than about forty since theyd left the coast.
Out in the country, the roads looked clean, and in the towns, Akin saw no sign of crime or
harmful activityand no run-down areas or slums, or beggars on the corner. Not only that, but

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every house looked like a mansion, and in many places, the homes were connected to
neighboring homes. Akin also took note of several large building that appeared to be places of
worship, each with a large X on the top of a high-reaching spire.
Akin shook his head, wondering if the media had cooked up yet another fantasy to feed
the people.
Farther inland, it began to snow again, and the snowflakes looked crystal clear. As soon
as the snow hit the ground, it melted.
What is this place? Akin thought.
The guards drove the truck up to the front of a large palace. Akin noticed that many
groundskeepers were out and about, caring for the yard, which looked beautiful and clean. The
guards got him out of the truck and took Akin up the large stone stairway that led to the palace
doors.
Where are you taking me? Akin asked. This doesnt look like a prison.
Romacovina has no prisons, because we dont need them, one of the guards said.
They took Akin into the large palace. Once inside, Akin could see that a large party was
taking place in the house, as well as in the giant backyard. People were dancing and having fun.
Akin couldnt believe his eyes. He thought of everything he had seen so far in his journey
through Romacovina, and now this party in a palatial palace.
This just doesnt look like a dictatorship to me, Akin said.
Thats because its not, a man said as he emerged from Akins left, holding a glass of
wine. Nor is it a democracy. It is a theocracy.
Akin turned and looked at the man.
Welcome, the man said. My name is Kordie Cus.

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No way, Akin said. Kordie Cus is the leader of this placeand a tyrannical dictator.
The man claiming to be Cus laughed. Yes, that is what they say, isnt it? But have you
never read in The Book of X not to take every account as truth until tested?
Akin looked over the man and thought, How could this guy be the great Kordie Cus? He
wasnt wearing any fancy clothes of prominence or a military outfit. He was an ordinary-looking
man sporting a polo shirt, gym shoes, and basketball shorts. How could this be the leader of this
so-called antisocial country?
Kordie Cus walked Akin through the people partying inside, and the two men exited
through sliding glass doors onto the back patio, which overlooked a large lawn where many more
men, women, and children partied. The two guards shadowed them as they went outside, but
Akin ignored them. Instead, he looked around and saw balloons tied here and there, and
fireworks going off.
Plus, he saw tables of food everywhere, and plenty of music echoing throughout the
grounds. Once again, Akin noted that not a single person looked over the age of forty. Cus
himself looked like he was in his twentiesbut he had a mature look to him. Akin tried not to
show his amazement at everything he saw.
Everybody! Cus shouted while clapping his hands and smiling. This is Shituzaki Akin.
Hes from the outside world and a welcomed guest now. Lets give him a warm welcome.
Akin snapped his head and looked at Cus. How did you know who I am?
But everybody began clapping and shouting for Akin. A large group of people, both
adults and children, came up to him with open arms, with many of them saying, Welcome to the
Motherland. Even the guards lowered their weapons and welcomed Akin to the land. However,

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one woman standing at a distance just stared at him, piercing him with her eyes, and Akin stared
back at her until Cus said, See, does this look like a war-torn, iron-ruled country to you?
Akin said nothing, and Cus invited him to grab a plate of food and relax.
And, yes, I know who you are, both you and Mr. Pike, Cus said. We know many
things so that we may keep our people safe and secure. So please, eat, rest. Youve had a long
day already.
On the buffet sat platters of all kinds of food, African, Italian, German, Greek, Indian, and
Asian. Akin picked up a plate and went for the Asian food, but as he loaded the plate, he felt
suspicious about all of it. He remembered the reports that told of all outsiders dying upon their
return from Romacovina. Maybe this was a trap to kill him.
Cus then put his arm around Akin and leaned in close to him. If I wanted to kill you, Mr.
Shituzaki, my guards would have done it before you even got here.
Akin realized the truth of Cuss words and noddedbut he still refused to eat.
Very well, suit yourself, Cus said. He reached for the plate in Akins hand. More for
me, so Ill take this. I dont want to tempt you.
Cus and Akin walked out onto the lawn.
So, Akin, what brings you to the island? Cus asked.
You dont already know that, too? Akin asked.
Cus smiled. Very good. Touch. And, yes, I do know you are here to learn what you can
about Zolin and his plans.
Akin stopped walking and pursed his lips. I need to know what Zolins target iswhich
kremlin hes going after. In the interest of peacesomething that it seems you and your people
enjoy here.

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Indeed. But we here at Romacovina have nothing to do with what happens in the outside
world anymore. The last time we allowed ourselves to become entangled in global affairs, nearly
a million of our people were killed and the country descended into chaos.
Dont blame that on anyone but yourselves. That was your fathers madness, not ours.
And this place is fortunate there hasnt been any political interference from other nations.
And you think thats supposed to mean something?
Akin clenched his fists and blew out a sharp breath. Yes, yes it does mean something.
After what your family did to those people and what happened afterward, yes, it does. You
tricked those people into thinking that they were getting something betterand then what? I
dont know what game you got going on here, Cus, using some magic trick to convince me that
everything is all right and better than ever, but Im not stupid like she was. Youll pay unless you
tell me what Zolins plan is now!
Im sorry, but could you please lower your voice? Children are present.
Akin grunted. Then, too fast for anyone to react, he elbowed one of the guards in the face
and took his silver rifle, then pointed it at Cus.
You know no one has ever gotten this far this close to you, Akin said. I could end
you right here for all that youve done. Maybe Pike was right. Maybe I shouldve gotten on that
boat.
Cus looked at Akin and smiled. Okay, so youre going to kill me and punish me for
crimes I didnt commit, because Im the son of a heartless man? You want answers to ensure
peace, but you come here with violence? And then what? You think you will die here a martyr of
some sort and receive a heros burial or maybe escape after youve done away with me, then
return home for a big welcome?

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Right after, everyone, including the children, pulled from under their shirts silver
firearms. The guards nearby put the muzzles of their silver rifles to Akins head, and the guard
that Akin had taken the rifle from pulled out a silver pistol. Akin let out a sigh, knowing he had
no way out.
What you have to understand, soldier, Cus said, is that this aint the place to become a
hero. So if thats what you want, then you wont get it here. But, if you want answers, then I can
give them to you. But only if you allow me to show you.
Akin just stared at Cus, but kept the rifle pointed at him.
Remember, Mr. Shituzaki, I knew who you were before you got here. I allowed you to
come this far for a reason.
Okay why? Akin asked.
You could have gone back with your friend, but you chose to stay and do it the right
way. I dont think you want to be here. But I do know you want to leave here and take something
good back with you.
Akin thought about it for a second. He looked around and saw that everybody was still
pointing weapons at him. A few feet away, a small girl had a small silver revolver aimed at him.
Fine, Akin said, then handed the rifle to the closest guard.
Now isnt that better than all the tension and conflict? Cus asked Akin.
Everybody put their guns away and resumed the party.
Eat and enjoy yourself, Cus said.
Akin realized this indeed wasnt a place to be a heroand no place for a little man,
either. He looked up and noticed it was becoming twilight. The snow still fell slowly and
peacefully, but it hit him that the air didnt feel cold at all.

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Chapter Four

Back at the White House, President Elisabeth Marcus met with her Secretary of Defense
and the Chief Administrator of the CIA.
So our man brought back a priest, the CIA chief said.
The double agentPike? Marcus asked.
The chief nodded.
Good. With this advantage, we can negotiate for the release and disarmament of the
secret weapons that Romacovina has.
Do you think they value their spiritual leaders that much as to give up such a large
advantage? the secretary asked.
I think they will, the CIA chief said. We can begin the negotiation process at the UN
summit in New York.
This will be the perfect time to promote peace and perhaps bring Romacovina into the
union, the secretary said. Not to mention, the Summer Olympics will be starting in a few
months in Berlin. All of this will create a media buzz that could shoot you to the top during your
reelection campaign, Ms. President.
Well, we will cross that bridge when we get there, Marcus said.
Well be meeting with the priest and Agent Pike in a few hours, the chief said.
Marcus nodded and the chief walked toward the door. The secretary hesitated to follow.
Maam, uh, do you need anything? Anything at all? the secretary asked.
No, Marcus said, raising an eyebrow. Why do you ask?

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Well, its just ... this is the anniversary of your husbands passing. I thought you ... I
dont know, maybe that you could use some, you know, time to yourself or maybe
No, but thank you for your concern, Mr. Secretary.
Yes, maam, the secretary said.
He and the CIA chief left the room. The president made her way to her bedroom, where
she took a picture from her lockbox. It was a photo of her when she was back in collegewith a
young man next to her.

Pike and the priest arrived in London, and Pike pulled out his private cell phone.
Bear Six, code in, came the reply.
Big Ben, Pike said.
Confirmed. Go ahead.
En route with target.
Roger that. Out.
Pike put away the phone and got out his SIS cell phone, then called in to Carter.
Arrived in London, Pike said.
Then you should be here soon, Carter said.
Priest needs to make a pit stop and to say some prayers, Pike said.
That can wait, Carter said.
Nah, its good. Well be there ASAP. Pike out.
Pike hung up and took the priest to a restroom located on the first floor of a nondescript
office building. However, at the rear of the restroom, through a hidden door, sat an interrogation

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room, and Pike escorted the priest here. Around a large table sat several men, one of whom
nodded to Pike.
Okay, Father Holy Holy, Pike said, were going to hook you up to a private video
signal that should link to Romacovinas media broadcast. You will tell Kordie Cus to give up the
nomad act and to meet with us at the upcoming UN summit in New York Cityto negotiate the
disarmament of all your countrys bio weapons, and to help us stop Zolin from blowing a
kremlin back to the Soviet days. If you do this, you will be set free and allowed to go home. Is
that clear to you, bud?
The priest raised his head toward him and then pulled back his hood. His face featured
two large scars that formed the shape of an X. His hair was colored a dark red. Pike and the
others looked at each other.
An X? But why would? No way! I cant believe it, Pike said.
Yes, my fellow man, believe what you can finally see, the priest said.
Hey, Pike said to one of his men, contact the chief. I think we just hit the jackpot,
baby.

Back in Romacovina, Cus showed Akin around his property, pointing out how peaceful
Romacovina was.
You see, Cus said, we have no military because the people are the military; we have
no army, no soldiers, and no police to protect us because the people are their own protection.
Everyone here, including the children, are fully capable of defending themselves from any threat,
no matter who it is.
How did you manage to pull that off? Akin asked.

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Well, it wasnt that difficult. After my father snapped and committed the genocide of
nearly a million of our people, the whole country descended into anarchy and chaos. It got so bad
here that everybody was using guns to protect themselves. Muggings, riots, thievery, kidnapping
of children to be trained as suicide bombers was common around this land. Women succumbed
to rape and abuse practically every hour of the day and night.
Akin nodded. Yeah, thats more in line with what Ive heard from reports of this place.
Things got so bad that some people considered it the most dangerous place in the world, even
worse than a lot of nations in the Middle East.
And it was true, then. Romacovina became the base of operations and breeding ground
for the most heinous criminals and terrorist organizations in the world. Before my fathers act of
genocide, there was a sense of orderan order that quickly turned to chaos with the mass
murder and then after my fathers death. That order had to be reestablished upon my return from
the West.
The West? What do you mean?
You will be the first person outside my inner circle to know this. My father secretly sent
me to America to study their culture, under an alias, of courseKory Custer. I went to Stanford
and graduated with a dual degree in political affairs and biochemical studies. I planned to use my
knowledge at some point in the future to overthrow the most powerful nation in the world. But
all that changed.
How? Akin asked.
I met a man. Actually, he was only a youth at the timefourteen years old when I meant
him at Stanford. But he studied philosophy and sociology. So I knew he had to be a geniusa

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child prodigy, if you will. But he was much more than that. He wrote a book that synthesized all
of his studies into one new philosophy.
Before graduation, he presented the book to his advisora professor that he greatly
respected. But the book was so good that the teacher got angry because it proved that everything
the instructor had told us was wrong. Everybody else in the school thought this young man was
crazy. Yet I knew there was something different about him.
One day, I saw him holding a seedling, which after a few months to a year, if taken care
of, would have become a large, beautiful flower. Thats when I saw something I would never
forget. He looked at the seedling and criedand then the seedling instantly became a large
flower, right in his hand.
I know it sounds crazy; I thought I was going crazy myself. But then he did it again in
his dorm room. Thats when I realized this boy was someone amazing, someone I had to learn
from. That someones name was Xavier Monteilloaka Messiah X.
So thats where the connection began.
Cus nodded. Xavier taught me how to be peaceful, and also that love, fear, and respect,
when fused together, would make not only a powerful leader but a powerful nationstronger
than America and all of its accomplishments. He told me that the military is not what makes the
nation strong; rather, it is the people. An army can be defeated, but if your subjects become your
army, you will never lose.
They would have to destroy you all, and thats where your enemy will defeat itself. In
this day and age, no one wants to do that and have that much blood on their hands. If they did,
the world would fall and devour itself in its own shame and hate. And he was right.
Cus and Akin continued to walk across the lush fields of the island.

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Xavier was right. My father had the love when he promised the oppressed of every
nation that he would protect them, that he would give them all that they desired. Millions from
different nations left their homeland to come to Romacovina. Thats how good of a speaker he
was. He had the fear, too, when no force could stop him, because he was that smart.
He did have the respect as well when the UN said they wouldnt interfere with him. But
after I heard of him killing nearly a million people because they wanted a change, thats when I
knew hed lost the peoples love and respect. All he had left was fear, and when that happens,
eventually somebody will stand up to you. The other nations didnt touch my dad at the time
because they respected him and many loved him. But then he lost that with his crazed genocide.
I didnt want to be like him. I wanted to be better. When he died, I vowed to return with
the answers to the chaos.
I see, Akin said. What about X?
Xavier came with memy best friend. Together, we took others who followed us and
went to Romacovina and took over the land and ousted anyone who didnt want to accept the
new faith we had. Afterward, we started a massive social media campaign to reach as many as
possible to return to Romacovina. I never made myself much of a public figure because of my
fathers legacy. But people knew X, and they could spread the word on how he changed
Romacovina.
And they did just that. Its crazy how many people actually believed you.
People want something better than their governments. Romacovina was prosperous most
of the time my father was ruler, and it is again noweven more like it should be.
Cus led Akin to a garage on the property. Inside, Akin was surprised to see a host of
clean-energy electric vehicles.

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Care for a driving tour, Agent Shituzaki? Cus asked.

Akin looked aroundstill no guards so Cus could perhaps be trusted to some degree,
unless he had something up his sleeve.
Okay, Akin said with a nod.
They stopped first at a training center where Romacovinians of all ages learned how to
fight with the guns. Next came a drive through of a section of forest and jungle. Akin had to look
twice, as many of the animals were either naturally mutated or were actually extinct species:
saber-toothed big cats, birds with four wings and six eyes, gray woolly mammoths, different
types of insects and reptiles never before seen. To Akin, the craziest part was that the wild and
domestic animals dwelled togetherwith the humans. He saw no sign of fear in their hearts.
How is this possible? Akin asked.
Its all thanks to Xavier, Cus replied. I dont know how he does it, but he does. He has
the power to change hearts, even down to the smallest creature.
From there, Cus showed Akin the industrial sites of the country. Akin saw no dangerous
chemicals being used, and no toxic fumes; the only byproduct appeared to be pure, clean air. But
they did manufacture a type of metal that looked like sapphire.
It can kill anything, no matter where it hits the body, Cus said. It doesnt even have to
hit a vital organ. It can be as small as a flesh wound. It will kill whatever it hits. We call it the
OSOK bullet, which means one shot, one kill.
They can only be used in the chrome-silver weapons that you saw earlier, as this is the
only metal that can withstand the power of these bullets. However, to the citizens of
Romacovina, the weapons are like regular guns: they can only kill them if a vital organ is hit. But
to outsiders....

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One shot, one kill, Akin said.

Cus nodded.
Cus drove Akin passed a large coliseum. You guys have gladiator games here or
something?
Hmm, minus the bloodshed, we use the coliseum for large-scale games, large enough to
rival the Olympics. We can have fun on a pretty massive scale, too, my friend.
To end their tour, Cus showed Akin some unique-looking jetpacks. The propellant for the
pack had a propane charge, but it was purely air-lifted. Cus turned on one of the jetpacks and put
his hand in the exhaust. But it wasnt a flame. It was ionized air.
Try it out, Cus said.
Akin shrugged his shoulders and said, Why not.
Soon, after bundling Akin in warm clothes, a couple of workers had rigged up the jetpack
on Akins back. Last came the flight mask, which looked like a metallic alien face, with two big
eyes and a partial cage over the wearers mouth for protection. Once Akin was ready and Cus
had also gotten outfitted with his own jetpack, Cus took him to the top of a high hill.
Turn your head to the left hard or right hard to change diagonal and vertical directions,
Cus said. Or move your torso up and down to move in horizontal directions.
Akin turned on his jetpack, and then both he and Cus launched into the air. After Cus
made sure Akin had a good handle on how to control the jetpack, they started to fly over the
island. At times, Akin would shout, partly in fear but mostly in excitement. They spent two hours
in the skies over Romacovina, with Akin taking in amazing vistas amidst the light snowfall.
Dusk soon came, and they landed.
That was amazing! Akin said.

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Yes. Now you know about our island and our peopleand you are ready, Cus said.
Ready for what?
Ready to return to Great Britain and report all that you saw to your superiors so they in
turn can tell the world. You will tell the others what Romacovina really is.
Wait. What about Zolin? Akin asked.
Zolin is not our problemespecially since your man Pike took Messiah X from us.
What? What do you mean? That was just a priest he grabbed.
Cus nodded. Yes, it was, and all of us are equal and not above one another. That priest
was just like everybody else. But he was also someone special. That priest was none other than X
himself.
No, wait, thats not fair. We didnt know andwe didnt plan to do a snatch-and-grab.
Life isnt fair, either; its what you make it. Report what youve learned here. The world
will know we have accomplished what the UN and every other leader has promised and failed to
achieve: peace.
Nighttime came, and Cus took Akin to his quarters for the night. Akin was scheduled to
return to the UK in the morning, Cus said. He sat on the bed in his second-floor room; he
reached into his pocket and took out a locket with a picture in it. The picture was of his mother.
Unable to sleep, he lay in bed with the light on, thinking about his mother into the wee hours of
the night.
At around 4:00 a.m., Akin got up and walked out onto the small balcony that overlooked
the gardens that led to the palace, which he could see in the distance. Below his living quarters,
in the glow of the landscape lighting, he saw a woman joggingthe same woman who had been
staring at him at the party. Not far from his balcony, the woman stopped to stretch. She looked up

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and saw Akin watching her. She smiled. Akin nodded at her. She looked American. He climbed
over the balcony railing, and then carefully lowered himself until he jumped down and touched
ground.
Hi, he said.
Hey, she said.
Im Akin.
She nodded. Yes, I remember. Im La-sha. She gave a short bow.
He smiled and bowed back in the traditional Japanese style.
You, uh, mind if I run with you? Akin said. Couldnt sleep at all.
Sure, come on.
They took off at a slow pace.
So where did you come from? Akin asked.
From California. In America.
Really? So what made you come to Romacovina?
Well, I wanted to be a professional runner. My parents put me in a training camp to hone
my skills, and one day I decided that I wanted to compete in the Olympics. La-sha paused and
released a deep sigh.
Akin looked at her. And?
I lost the use of my legs to a degenerative illness years ago. I gave up hope of even
walking again and fell into some bad depression.
Akin nodded and looked ahead.
But that changed when I saw Messiah Xs sermons on the Internet. La-sha said.
Akin looked at her again.

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I came here and took a chance, hoping he could help me find hope again.
That was a huge leap of faith.
She nodded. Yeah, it wasso much that my family disowned me and dubbed me a
traitor.
Akin frowned. Im sorry to hear that.
Its okay. It hurt a lot, still does, but I found a new family here, and it was here that X
gave me hope again. He gave me a reason to live again, then healed my legs. La-sha let out a
long sigh of relief. That was thirty years ago.
Thirty years? You look like youre in your late teens earlier twenties.
Thats sweet.
But its true. I mean, Ive noticed that a lot around here.
One of the many benefits of being a part of this great land, a citizen of Romacovina
doesnt have to worry about old age. You could live here for forty plus years and still look as
young as you were in your high school yearbook.
Akin laughed. Well, thats too good to be true.
But it is. She said with a small giggle. I found all the happiness possible here. La-sha
looked over at him. You know, you can be happy here, too.
Wanting to believe her, Akin just shrugged. Maybe, well see.
They talked and jogged until sun up, when they returned to the building where Akins
quarters were. Akin didnt end up leaving that dayor the next day. After talking with Cus and
telling him hed like to stay on the island and learn more, Cus agreed to allow him to remain
indefinitely. Akin took full advantage by spending as much time as possible with La-sha.

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Cus didnt interfere with the growing romance between Akin and La-sha. One morning,
he watched the two of them from a distance via his bedroom balcony in the palace. He sighed,
then turned and went inside. From a desk drawer, he took out a framed photograph from when he
was in college. In the picture, he stood next to a young woman. In the bottom right corner of the
photo were the handwritten words Luv you, Kory! along with a little heart.
Cus swallowed hard. Then he looked back out the window and saw Akin and La-sha
talking and laughing. Cus glanced back down at the picture. He clenched his jaw and grasped the
photo frame so tight that his knuckles grew white. Then he snarled and hurled the photo against
the nearest wall.

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Chapter Five

In a secret facility, located underground in Rome, Zolin and his men discussed the
upcoming attack, which would strike several areas at once.
I trust that this information and these access routes are correct, Zolin said.
Yes, our source at the UN confirms, one of the men said.
Okay, then lets do this. Lets make history, Zolin said.

In London, US President Elisabeth Marcus arrived and met with Danielle Carter while
waiting for another transmission from Pike. Finally, the call came in, and Carter put it on speaker
so Marcus could also hear the conversation.
Pike, what is going on? Why havent you arrived here with the priest yet? Carter asked.
Because the priest we captured is Messiah X, maam. Its him, Pike said. Ive already
had two agents confirm his identity.
Carter and Marcus just looked at each other for a moment.
Whats your location? Carter asked.
Echo Site, Blue Room, Pike said.
Were on our way.
Less than twenty minutes later, Carter, Marcus, and a few of their key staff members
arrived at the office building where Pike had Messiah X.
Hello, X said as the two women approached him.
Marcus stopped in her tracks when she saw X. X smiled at her, then gave a little nod.
I can help you with your problem, X said.

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What problem is that? Carter said.

Everything.
He closed his eyes and tilted his head back.
What are you doing? Carter asked.
X said nothing and did not move for the next fifteen minutes, no matter how much they
talked to him. Then, Pike and the other agents began getting reports of paraplegics getting up and
walking, blind people being able to see, deaf people being able to hear, and the list went on and
on. Even stranger, several senior citizen homes in London no longer had old residents. They had
all returned to their youth. Even some of the staff at the secret SIS location found their ailments
healed. Some started to cry. Others started to laugh. Some even fainted.
How are you doing this? President Marcus asked.
Finally, X opened his eyes. Well, he said, if you had come with us when we left,
Lizzy, then you would know.
The presidents eyes went wide. Dont you dare call me by that name.
Agent Carter looked at the president, then at X.
Dont blame me. I wanted you to be happywe all did, X said.
Marcus shook her head. Leave it alone, Xavier.
Wait, Carter said to Marcus. You know who Messiah X is?
Unfortunately, yes, although I didnt know until we walked in and I saw him, Marcus
said. But that doesnt matter. She looked at X. Im sure Pike told you what we want.
Carter looked at Pike and frowned. Working both sides of the pond?
Pike shrugged his shoulders.

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Yes, X said, Agent Pike did tell me of your desire to acquire our weapon. And I can
tell you this: you dont want the weapon. Its beyond your control and your comprehension. You
see, it happens every year, but you dont want it.
Enough with the games, Xavier. Tell us what it is and we will set you free, Marcus said.
No, I will not tell you. I want to save you and your people. Then we can all be one with
each other.
You want to save people? Carter said. Then tell us about Zolin. If you agree to go on
camera in public, you could make him stop whatever he is planning.
That wont stop him, but it will bring millions to me. Do you want that? Are you ready
for that?
One of Marcuss female aides called the president over from where the aide sat in a
wheelchair that shed been confined to since childhood. President Marcus looked at her.
Yes, Ginny? Marcus said.
Please, Ms. President, maybe we should listen to him, Ginny said.
Why? Marcus asked.
Ginny looked over at X, and he nodded at her, then smiled. Ginny got up out of the
wheelchair and started to walk and cry. President Marcus cried, too.
Agent Carter, President Marcus said. Please ask the prime minister if we can
broadcast X on your media outlets. Ill call for a public address in the US.
Uh, Ms. President? Carter said.
Please.

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Agent Carter hesitated at first, but after seeing Ginnys happy expressions, she gave in.
She pulled out her phone. Bond, get me the Prime Minister. We have some important news to
tell him. She glanced at X. And the world.
The next day, X was allowed to go public and broadcast the message across Great Britain
and the United States. President Marcus and the prime minister watched X together from across
the room. The prime minister leaned over and whispered in Marcuss ear.
I hope this works Madam President, the prime minister said. I heard about some of
those weird miracle healings across London, but still, were putting this out on long shot.
Millions is a big number compared to a few hundred.
Im aware of that, Mr. Prime Minister, and yes, we are putting this on a long shot. But
after what I saw yesterday, I realized peace with Romacovina could be possible.
You mean when you saw Ginnys recovery or when you saw an old acquaintance?
Marcus looked at the prime minister. He stared back, looking at her with cautious
optimism. Marcus looked back at X as he preached to the world. With the cameras and
microphones assembled around X, the reporters wanted to hear and record every word. X stood
confident, revealing himself to the world.
This is to all who know of me, to all who love me, and to all that hate me, X said. My
people have been labeled traitors, terrorist, and rebels. But Im here as their spiritual leader, their
shepherd, to show you otherwise. I sense that many of you have ailments, or are lame or old.
No matter our race, our religion, our culture, and our nationality, you all suffer from these
things. But not my people, not in Romacovina. We are free from such things: war, pain, suffering
... death.

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Xavier looked down and took a deep breath, knowing the next part would be a lie. But
today, Ive decided to come here at my own free will, for the sake of peace. He looked back up
and turned to Marcus.
Marcuss eyes widened and she folded her arms to hide her anxiousness.
Today, Im going to spread the gifts of Romacovina to the entire world for the sake of
peace. X turned back to the audience. In the next forty-eight hours, millions of you will be
cured of your imperfections; you will have fewer crimes being committed across your dwelling
places. When that happens, I know many of you will think differently of us.
Many watching, though, felt skeptical at Xs claims.
Who does this guy think he is, Jesus? more than one viewer said.
I heard on the news that people across the country were miraculously healed, another
said.
Lies, all lies. Its just a stunt, no way. That just doesnt happen.
A lot of people love him.
A lot hate him, too.
Yeah, but that whole healing story, having this guy on the news, making it a public
address. I mean, the leaders of the two most powerful nations in the world wouldnt do
something like this just to jerk us around, right?
At the press conference, X closed his eyes. Veins began to appear across his head.
Mr. X? one of the reporters said. Mr. X, are you okay?
Marcus, Carter, and the prime minister stepped forward, holding their breath, waiting for
X to open his eyes. Marcuss eyes grew wider; her mouth hung open. She knew what X was
doing.

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X stayed that way for several minutes. Sweat poured from his face like a fountain.
Finally, he fell on the ground. The crowd gasped.
Get this man a doctor. one of the attendees said.
The security guards escorted the president and the prime minister out of the room. They
also grabbed X and took him off the platform. X was placed on a gurney, and they rolled him out
of the building and into an ambulance.

A couple of hours later, after the president and the prime minister had exited the
building, hundreds of people were escorted outside of the premise. The prime minister left the
building with Agent Carter and Bond.
Well, that was quite a show, the prime minister said. Now the people of Romacovina
are going to think we poisoned him or something.
Just then, Bond took a call from HQ. Are you serious?
What is it? the prime minister asked.
Sir, reports of healing are streaming across the web. Theyre coming in so fast. I...
The prime minister looked ahead, remembering what Marcus said. My God.

In the ambulance, the EMTs checked for any irregularities in Xs vitals. But the monitor
wouldnt process the vitals.
What the.... one of the paramedics said. I cant understand these readings.
X woke up and rose from the gurney. The EMTs lunged back. X took off the respirator
and breathed. He looked at the nearest EMT.
Its okay. Im fine. And soon, youll be, too.

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In the next forty-eight hours. Xs prophecy came true. The gifts of Romacovina spread
across the US and UK, and then within a week the whole world. Millions everywhere were
healed; they became young and healthy again. This had such an impact on the world that many
abandoned their former beliefs when they saw and experienced what X did on a grand scale. It
was unprecedented. Sickness, pain, crime, violence, and old age were disappearing.
International scientists took great interest in X, because they wanted to study Xs body to
see how he had obtained these miraculous abilities. X agreed to undergo testing, and scientists
recorded that his DNA had ten times more base pairs of DNA arranged in his calculated one
hundred and forty-four chromosomes. The basic human only has forty-six chromosomes in its
DNA.
Other scientists also discovered that Xs DNA carried large concentrations of Higgs
particlesaka god particles. How this was possible, though, nobody knew. Xs physiology
would forever change the way scientists looked at biochemistryand the universe, for that
matter.
Many, of course, opposed X, accusing him of promoting sedition, conquest, and was
going to help Romacovina subjugate the world under Kordie Cuss tyrannical rule. Many of the
religious leaders around the world hated X and wanted to kill him for taking their members, their
money, and most of all, their power.
To convince the world powers about Xs true intentions, Agent Carter wanted X to ask
Kordie Cus to attend the upcoming UN summit, to disarm the secret weapon, and to help them
stop Zolin.
X thought about it for a moment, then nodded. I warn you, though, if this is a trap to
destroy Romacovina and its people over nationalistic propaganda, or to seek revenge against the

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Cus family, I will unleash an unspeakable curse on the whole world that nobody will ever be able
to lift.
Such a threat may have seemed outlandish just a week or so ago, but with what they had
seen Messiah X accomplish, they believed he could do what he promised, even if they didnt
know how. So President Marcus and Agent Carter assured him that they had no ulterior motives
behind their requests.

In Romacovina, Cus stood on his balcony and watched Akin and La-sha jogging through
the palace grounds. Cus frowned as he noticed the obvious joy and happiness that the pair of
them exuded. Just then, one of Cuss advisors approached him.
Sir, the Order of the Six Sages wishes to speak with you, the advisor said.
Cus nodded and left the palace, hoping the Sages had some word about Messiah X since
they had all heard about and then watched the press conference that X had held at the behest of
the US and UK. Even Cus hadnt known at first that Pike had grabbed X and not just some
random priest. If anyone would have news of X, it would be the Sages, the reigning spiritual
order of the land.
Cus soon entered the temple where the Six Sages held court. All six of them sat in their
main chambers, facing each other in a circle while wearing casual attire.
One of the Sages handed Cus a phone. Watch the video, please, the Sage said.
Cus looked down and saw a video of Messiah X ready to play. He started the video and
watched and listened to his old friend: My brothers in Romacovina, would you consider coming
to New York for the UN summit? X asked. I believe this is the best and most logical step
toward peace between our people and the outside world.

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After the video ended, one of the Sages took the phone from Cus and asked. Why would
X do this? Since we watched his video just minutes before you came, some of us have felt
shaken to our very spirits about this. We just do not understand why he wants to open lines of
communication with the outside world.
He had to have had a good reason, Cus said.
Indeed, another sage said. Kordie, I believe you will have to face our enemies one last
time before we can achieve absolute peace with the outside lands.
Yes, it would appear I have no choice but to finish what my father started, Cus said.
With that, Cus departed the temple and headed to Akins quarters, where he found the
agent just leaving the building while holding hands with La-sha.
Agent Shituzaki, do you want to stay here with us? Cus asked.
Huh? Akin said, taken by surprise at such a blunt question.
I can make you a citizen. All of the benefits, both physical and spiritual will be given to
you.
Akin looked at La-sha and then back at Cus. Yes, I do. I think I would like to stay.
Alright then, Cus said. But I need some privacy with you. He looked at La-sha.
She smiled and said, By all means. She squeezed Akins hand and walked off.
Okay, here I am, Akin said. Whats going on?
Ill tell you who Zolin really is.
What. Akin said.
Cus nodded. But not here. Lets go to the palace where I know everything is secure.
Once at the palace, Cus led Akin to a small office on the first floor.
Please, Agent Shituzaki, have a seat, Cus said. A little wine, perhaps?

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Akin nodded. Sure.

Cus poured them both a glass of red wine, then sat down behind his desk, across from
Akin.
When my father was in power, Cus began, Zolin was general of his so-called Silver
Army. The OSOK bullets were the reason why father always won any battles that Zolin fought
for him. But my father had no knowledge about how to transform that same power into a weapon
of mass destruction that would rival the nuclear bomb.
That was the only thing that kept him from achieving the complete conquest he so
desired here. He wanted to gather as many scientists as he could, hoping someone would provide
him with the knowledge to build such a weapon. But it never happened, and then he went mad.
Thats when the genocide happened, Akin said.
Cus nodded. Not long after that, my father died from an unknown virus he got from one
of his mistresses. General Zolin took over the army and tried to gain control of Romacovina,
hoping to eventually return to his homeland of Russia and usurp power there. Thus, factions
grew in our land and chaos ensued. When I arrived back here with X, Zolin failed to advance any
further, even though he had more with him than we had with us.
How did you stop him? Akin asked.
Xavier has the power to manipulate life. However, he cant use his power to kill. Nor
can Xavier manipulate the dead. He cant bring you back to life. However, he can release and
reawaken dormant forms of life that have been in the state of slumber for centuries. Cus paused
and then said, We concluded that Xavier somehow activates dormant genes in people that allow
them to achieve superhuman qualities, both mental and physical. Xavier did the same with this.

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Cus rose and walked out onto the balcony. Akin followed. Cus put out his hand and
caught some of the ever falling snowflakes. They melted in his hand.
Akin shook his head. I dont get it.
When Zolin lost, he took all of my fathers old army with him. And ever since then, they
have called themselves the Zolinites. Whatever Zolin is planning, it wont be something your
government will be expecting. But Zolin isnt the one Im worried about. Im worried about what
Xavier will do if this situation threatens Romacovina. Xavier loves this place like his own body.
In fact, he played a key role in making it. If all of this is destroyed by nuclear
weaponssomething my people dont have and never will while Im in powerit could spell
the same doom for the outside world that it did when we banished Zolin. But its going to be
much worse.
Cus walked inside. With his back turned, he said, My father told me this when I was
little. Right before I went to America: Remember this, son. People can either be ruled by men
wearing costumed military attire or they can be ruled by men wearing business suits. That
decision will define you to the rest of the world. People wont take me seriously at that summit
wearing basketball shorts.
Wait, Akin said. Youre going to the summit?
Cus frowned, then nodded. I received a video message from X, asking me to attend. He
would not be coerced into asking for this, so I must assume he has spoken with your leaders in
the SIS and come to some sort of an accord with them.
Okay, so now what?
We go to New York City for the summit.
Akins eyes grew wide. We?

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Of course, Agent. I will need you there.

Turning away from Akin, Cus opened a closet, and there hung his fathers old military
uniform. Before pulling out the uniform, he put on a Kevlar bodysuit to protect his body. Next,
he donned the uniform, complete with all of his fathers medals and patches.
Cus turned to Akin and said, Now we go back to the hangar with the jetpacks.
Were flying to New York using jetpacks?
Cus nodded.
Seriously?
Of course. You yourself have already seen that they require no fuelonly air.
Akin shrugged. Okay.
Once at the hangar, Cus put the jetpack on, and after, his metal mask. At the same time,
Akin watched as a large group of men, women, and children put on their own jetpacks, along
with the metal masks, and then took up their silver guns. Finally, Akin himself put on the same
gear.
As Akin was getting prepped, Cus asked him, Remember when we first met at the party?
You said that you werent stupid like she was. Who was the she?
Akin looked down and pulled a necklace out from under his shirt. He held it up for Cus
to see the picture on the pendant.
This was my mom, Akin said. She was from North Korea. When Cashis Cus preached
about Romacovina, she believed in him and escaped to come here. My dad and I, though,
escaped to Japan, where he was originally from. However, when the people wanted Cashis to
turn the land into a democratic government, she was killed along with the millions that died. I
vowed that would never happen to me.

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I would never put my faith in a person like she did. Akin paused and looked down at
the ground. Then he looked in Cuss eyes. Not until today.
Cus put a hand on Akins shoulder.
I wished my mother lived to see this, Akin said. And that she lived in Romacovina
now as I soon will after this is over.
Then come, let us go and make peace, Cus said. And you will be my ambassador, to
let the world know about our peaceful regime.
Akin just stared at him. Seriously? Just like that?
Certainly. You know I had you checked out before you even stepped foot on this island,
Cus said. And I now know you personally, so the ambassadorship is yours, if youll have it.
Id ... Id be honored, Akin said.
So will we, a female voice said from behind.
Akin turned and saw La-sha.
She smiled at him. I will be waiting for you when you return.
Akin kissed her, and then he, Cus, and the rest of the group turned on their jetpacks and
flew to New York for the summit.

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Chapter Six

In a private room in his secret bunker, Zolin lit a candle. On the table before him was a
picture of Cashis Cus. Zolin thought back on the last day he talked to Cashis, several years ago.
The sun rose in the city of Kiev. Zolin and Cus took a walk across the bridge, looking at
the horizon.
You managed to do the impossible, sir, Zolin said. Romacovina will definitely be the
capital of our new world when this is over.
Cashis stopped and laughed at the young Zolins comment. Zolin stopped and looked at
Cashis with unease. Sir?
Nothing, my friend, Cashis said. Its funny, after all these years, you still talk like a
foot soldier.
Well, sir, Im just
Please, dont call me sir, Kermen. At this point, were too close for such formalities.
Just call me Cashis.
Uh, okay, Cashis.
Cashis smiled and gently hit Zolin in the jaw. See, that wasnt so bad?
Uh, I guess not.
Heh. Cashis turned back around and looked at the horizon. Listen, Kermen, my days
are numbered.
What? Zolin said. Youre just getting started, siruh, Cashis.
Every man in my position has numbered days. Such days are important to establish a
system where your goals are going to be carried out by another.

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Like Kordie?
Zolin saw Cashis frowning. He gripped the railing of the bridge and rocked his body back
and forth. Im sure when he returns from America, he will be ready. Cashis shook his head and
squeezed the railing. Kermen, if Kordie doesnt accomplish our goal, Im entrusting our
uprising to you.
Zolin looked around the street, feeling confused and unsure about Cashiss remark.
Hes sculpting his own legacy in America, Cashis said.
Uh, sir, Kordie, well, you trained him. Im sure ... I know he wont fail us. He wont.
Cashis released the railing and walked away, leaving Zolin behind. Zolin just didnt know
back then. Maybe he was too young and too stupid to see the truth about Kordie through his
fathers eyes.
Zolin came back to reality and slammed his hand on the table. After all these years, I
finally understand, sir. Im still just a foot soldier, but Im your foot soldier.
He took out a lighter and set the picture on fire. He held it high above him.
Your son has deserted you, my friend, Zolin said. But thats okay. Ill make him pay
with his own legacy. Romacovina Kovia!

In Washington DC, President Marcus, Agent Carter, Messiah X, and Agent Pike boarded
Air Force One for their flight to New York and the summit. Unknown to them and the rest of the
UN leaders, a group of Zolinites had planted bombs throughout the underground sewer systems
all over New York City. That same afternoon, Marcus and her group landed in New York, and
soon enough, they arrived at the UN Headquarters along with hundreds of other international
leaders and representatives. They saw reporters and protesters everywhere.

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Marcus and some of the other leaders walked in together, many of the security personnel
began running toward them and pointing into the sky. Marcus looked up and saw several streams
of light coming toward them from out of the blue sky, appearing to be some strange aircraft.
Soon enough, though, the security personnel received a radio update that the incoming craft were
actually representatives of Romacovina and that they had been given permission to land and
attend the summit.
Kordie Cus and the rest of his squad landed in spectacular fashion, wowing the crowds.
Within seconds, people began uploading photos and videos to every social media site on the
Internet, and soon the entire world knew that Romacovina was attending the summit.
After security guards cleared Cus and his entourage, he approached Elisabeth Marcus
with all of his gear still onlooking like some military superhero or super-villain, depending on
the observers point of view. When he came to a stop in front of her, he removed the mask and
put on his military hat.
Ms. President, its been awhile, Cus said with a bow.
Mr. Cus. Yes, it has been awhile, the president said.
Standing to Cuss left, Akin eyed Agent Pike, who was staring at him.
Fricking traitor, Pike muttered. I cant believe that flake.
Next to Pike, Agent Carter shook her head. Look whos talking, Pike, she replied.
After allowing Cus to greet X, everyone entered the UN building, with hundreds of
camera flashes going off all around them. Once inside the General Assembly building, each
leader took his or her place, and UN staff rushed around to set up a seat for Kordie Cus and
Messiah X. With the unexpected arrival of Kordie, everyone agreed to rearrange the prior

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discussion on foreign policy and focus on how Romacovina could be invited into the UN by
disarming the weapons the country possessed.
We cant disarm because the weapon is a natural defense, Cus said.
President Marcus caught Xaviers eye to hopefully convince him otherwise, but X only
said, Mr. Cus isnt lying but we can help you stop Zolin.
Most of the delegates argued loudly against having anything to do with Romacovina,
given the genocide that had taken place, plus its long-time status as a hermit nation.
Agent, now Ambassador, Akin soon rose and took the floor. I vouch for this land and its
leaders, Akin said. They can help you.
Ha! We arent inclined to listen to a traitor, said one of the UN members.
President Marcus now looked at Cus. But Cus was deep in thought, trying to figure out a
way to come to an agreement. And then it hit him.
I realize that the upcoming Summer Olympics will be in Berlin, Cus said. If you were
to change the location of the Olympics, then we would give you the ability to disarm the weapon
and help you stop Zolin.
The delegates from Germany rose and shouted their disagreement. X looked at Cus.
What are you doing, friend? X asked.
Xavier, its time for us, for once, to make the first move for peace, Cus said.
We will not give up our opportunity to host these Olympics. the German leader said.
And how would it even be possible? It would take years of preparation to have them in your
land.

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No, it wont, Cus said. We have a stadium; we use it for our own games. Your
delegates can use it. All of our citizens will be happy to accommodate your athletes. We have
plenty of room. We want the Olympics to take place in Romacovina.
The uproar in the room continued.
If you allow us to host the Olympics, we will submit.
No, thats unacceptable, said one of the UN members. Hosting the Olympics in hostile
territory? No, we wont agree to that.
Cus finally pulled out a thick file folder.
Maybe it will change your mind if I show this file to the media frenzy outsideabout
how the UN sabotaged the election for several presidential candidates during recent elections in
major democratic countries.
Impossible, you dont have any proof of that, said one of the members next to Cus.
Here, Cus said, offering the file to the man. See for yourself, and dont worry; I have
many more copies of that.
The UN Security Council representatives glanced at the file. After flipping through a few
pages, they realized Cus held the high cards. They called for a silent vote, and soon enough, the
Security Council president stood before the assembly.
By a unanimous vote, the Security Council president said, we have approved
Romacovina hosting the Summer Olympics in 2016.

Zolin almost immediately heard of the decision made at the summit. Hmmm, it seems
Cus knows my plan to a degree, at least. But we will still launch the attack when the time
comes.

Winter / Ran

Zolin then made a call. We have to make a change in location.

283

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Chapter Seven

In his hotel room, Cus looked out across the Manhattan skyline. He thought back on his
days in America. Then, someone knocked on his door. After checking the identity of the visitors
on the closed-circuit monitor, he opened the door to let in a group of secret service agents,
accompanied by President Marcus.
Well, I guess your persuasive attitude has prevailed again, huh, Mr. Cus? Marcus said.
At least youre trying to redeem Romacovinas image.
She nodded at her bodyguards and they backed off to give her space to speak with Cus.
He smiled at her. It wasnt for just that, Cus said, then looked out at the glowing
skyline of Manhattan.
Oh, yes, of course. It was for your best friend X, Marcus replied.
It was for someone else, too, Cus said, then turned and looked into Marcuss eyes.
Marcus opened her mouth to say something, then closed it and looked down at the
floorbut not before Cus noticed her cheeks had begun to blush.
A few moments later, she looked back up at him. Im, uh, Im not happy about that
exposed file, Mr. Cus. You could have started a bigger problem for yourself and most of all your
people.
It was necessary, Ms. President, Cus said.
It was necessary so that you could get what you want, just like you did with your
previous goals.
Cus laughed and shook his head. Well, not all of my previous endeavors succeeded with
that technique, Ms. President. You of all people should know that.

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She took a step forward. Seriously, Kordie, if you only knew how hard I worked to get
where I am now. I put my own money and reputation on the line in my campaign during that
election.
Cus nodded. Yes, I do know. I saw you and you were amazingand I am sorry that I
cast any shadow of deceit on you by sharing that file. It was not my intent. And if anyone would
doubt you, they only have to do some searching to know that you are clean.
He watched as Marcuss face revealed the emotional battle withinpast affection
struggling against present bitterness.
Next time, she finally said, you wont be able to scare us into giving you what you
wantlike your father used to.
After today, Ms. President, I wont have to.
She looked at him with obvious disdain in her eyes, then came a flash of hope. Yes, hope
and sweetness. Cus saw it clearly.
He smiled at her. Wow, he whispered. I remember that look.
What? What look?
That look, with that cute dimple showing on the side of your cheek, Cus said to her
softly.
She looked at him, gazing into his eyes. You do? she whispered.
Yes, I remember like it was yesterday, Cus said.
Marcus took a small step toward Cus.
I remember that look wellfrom CNN, when you did your inauguration speech, Cus
said.
Marcus stepped back, and Cus saw her cheeks turn red.

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Oh ... Yes, thats right. Yes, that, she replied.

Im still sorry about your husband, Cus said.
It wasnt your fault. So far as I know.
Cus laughed. Good night, Madam President.
Marcus nodded, then left with her guards, and Cus went back to staring out at the skyline.

At the same time in a secure location, Carter met with both Akin and Pike. Im not
surprised youre a double agent, Pike, Carter said. But I am aggravated by it.
Pike snorted a laugh. I did what I had to do. Dont blame me for you all not getting the
facts straight. Besides, Im still serving the greater goodand at least I aint no traitor like Mr.
Shit over here. Pike jerked a thumb in the direction of Akin. So Ill let you shoot the breeze
with him, and well catch up again, okay?
Pike turned and walked out of the office. Carter looked at Akin and shook her head.
Akin, though, raised a hand before she could speak. If you saw what I saw, you wouldnt
be looking at me like that. This is a chance to make things right for once between these people
and the rest of the world. Isnt that a part of the job?
Carter sighed. For what its worth, Im glad youre okay.
Akin smiled and walked out of the room.

Later that same night, Xavier met with Cus to talk about his real intentions in regard to
returning to America.
Like every ruler, you still think about yourself first. But thats what should be different
about you, X said.

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Xavier, Im tired of being separated from everyone, Cus said. Even with peace in our
land, I still feel alone.
But she didnt come with you when she had the chance, so she is not worthy.
No, for the first time since Ive met you. I have to disagree.
Cus walked away from X.

Within hours of the UN announcement of the change in venue for the Olympics, every
media outlet around the world was buzzing with the news. A great deal of controversy
surrounded the reports, of course, with many believing this to be nothing more than a setup for
some secret terrorist attack on Romacovina soil.
La-sha saw the reports online. An athlete all her life, La-sha figured she had given up any
chance at the Olympics when she chose to become a citizen of Romacovina. Now the door had
been opened. After hearing the announcement, La-sha phoned Akin while he was still in New
York.
I cant believe it. she said, Now that the Olympics will be in Romacovina, I can finally
competeall thanks to Kordie Cus and Messiah X.
Im so happy for you, Akin said. Now go win the gold for us, baby.
No, Im gonna win it for you.

Across the globe in London, Harper CarterAgent Danielle Carters husband

discussed the change in venue with his wife.
I dont know about this, Danny, Harper said, drinking a bottle of water in the kitchen.
This is all too weird.

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But its for the best and you know it, Danielle said from their bedroom while changing
into her pajamas.
What if its a trap by Kordie?
He and his men have been corporative with us this far.
And thats exactly what he wants.
Harper walked into the bedroom. He grabbed Danielle, kissed her on the neck, and then
guided her to the bed.
Look, hon, do it for me, Danielle said. World peace is just the icing on the cake.
Harper sighed. I guess Im just a bit scared this might all go wrong.
Danielle nodded. I worry about that all the time at my job. But it doesnt stop me from
trying to make things betterjust like falling at the track and breaking your ankle didnt stop
you for the third time.
Fourth time.
Right. Fourth. Forgot that little trip at trials.
Naw, it wasnt a trip. I got pushed.
No, you tripped.
No.
Yes.
Harper pulled Danielle down onto the bed, rolling on top of her. I said no.
And I said yes.
They both kissed and hugged each other, making love deep into the night.

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When morning finally came, the newscasts didnt waste any time. Harper Carter had
become the first athlete to agree to the change in venue. The reporters surrounded him at the
airport.
Im always looking for an opportunity to promote peace, Harper said. I hope the
people of Romacovina and its leaders truly feel the same way.
He boarded the plane and flew to the once forbidden land, and soon enough, the rest of
the athletes from around the world followed.

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Chapter Eight

Following the summit, Cus decided to stay in America for several weeks to continue
negotiations while the Six Sages oversaw Romacovina. Cus, though, made sure he returned
home for the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games. The ceremonies began, though, a video
was posted online; it featured Zolin, stating once again that he planned to make an attack soon.
British SIS got a hold of the video moments after it was posted. The IT techs at the central hub
informed the proper authorities of it.
Sir, he posted another one, said one of the SIS techs.
Trace it, the team leader said.
Aye, sir.
British SIS tried to hack into the video. The video encryption has been broken sir.
The video footage started to scramble and binary codes appeared on the screen. What is
this? the team leader asked.
The video ended with an image of a black X with a red background. The computers in the
room all began to scramble.
Sir, our databanks and communication links, theyre down, one of the techs said.
No, a virus, the team leader said. Shut everything down now.
Too late, sir. Its too late.
Do it.
The techs disconnected all the servers, but the attack had indeed already begun.
Sir, its no use. Communications are down. We cant contact anyone, not in enough
time.

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I know that, Technician, the team leader said. He wiped his lips and balled up his fist.
God help us. Its already too late to do anything.
The devastating virus found its way into the computer servers of Great Britain and then
all the major nations around the world. Both public and private IP addresses were compromised.

The opening ceremonies were about to begin. The athletes took their positions.
Welcome to the 2016 Summer Olympics, the announcer said.
The massive crowd roared with excitement. At the top of the stadium, several Zolinite
assassins killed the private security guards stationed at every vantage point. A Zolinite sniper
stepped up and pulled out a long rifle from her duffle bag.
Harper Carter ran across the stadium, carrying the torch. The sniper adjusted her scope.
She touched her ear; her comlink activated.
On the other side of the world, Zolin answered his phone. Yes?
Target acquired, sir, the sniper said.
Do it.
Two seconds later, a bullet tore through Harper Carters skull. He fell to the ground and
dropped the torch.
Harper! Danielle screamed from the stands.
Panic erupted throughout the stadium. All in attendance fled like a wild mob. Danielle,
though, pushed through the crowd until she fell to her knees and cradled her dead husband.
The news broke in a matter of minutes: Horror at the Olympics.
Hours later, an emergency meeting of the UN leaders took place at the General Assembly
building in New York. All of the delegates took their seats.

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Gentlemen, one of the members said. As of right now, Zolin

A mighty boom occurred; the building shook as multiple charges went off throughout the
structure, killing almost everyone present. Only the leaders of South Africa, Iran, the US, Britain,
North Korea, Russia, and Romacovina remained. The surviving delegates were evacuated from
the area. After reaching a safe distance from New York City, the Russian delegate sighed with
relief. He did it, Zolin did it my brothers, The Russian leader said. Romacovina Kovia.
At almost the same time, Zolinites blew up the empty Olympic stadium in Berlin, and
then bombed the Pentagon. Zolinite cells in nearly every nation launched terrorist attacks within
the countries they occupied, hacking defense systems and initiating unauthorized missile
launches.
Shock and chaos reigned throughout the world. A bomb blew up in Rome, laying waste to
the Vatican. Tanks and Zolinite soldiers stormed the area. Crowds around the mayhem ran in fear.
Zolin walked into the debris of the infamous Vatican. He climbed to the top, then a solider
handed him a pole. Zolin stuck the pole into the debris. A giant flag with an X on it unfurled.
Now, Zolin said, looking up into the crimson sky. Romacovina is the new, supreme
holy land of the world.
His men shouted in victory, and shot their guns into the air.
Romacovina Kovia!

Meeting in a secret location in New York City, the remaining world leadersexcept for
Kordie Cusargued about what to do.
We want that blasted island blown off the face of the earth, one of the leaders said.

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293

You want us to commit mass genocide? another leader replied. We would be no

different than the Nazis or Cashis Cus himself.
President Marcus nodded at that.
True, the Russian leader said. Not everyone there is a threat. But, then again, they all
have those silver weapons. The citizens are the armywhich means that they are, in fact, our
enemies, all of them. We have to do what we have to do. Remember Japan back in World War II?
This is necessary.
Oh, Lord, I never thought we would have to use a nuclear weapon again, another leader
said. Yet if we must, then so be it, but we have to get our people out of Romacovina firstthose
Olympians, support staff, visiting dignitaries, everyone.
Agreed, Marcus said. Still, if we do this, you all realize that the blood on our hands
will be worse than what is on Kordie Cuss right now.
When those people left to follow a terrorist, they condemned themselves from the
beginning, the Russian leader replied.
Marcus frowned and turned her sight to the table.
Madam President, we have to act now.
Marcus clenched the paper on her desk and finally nodded her head. So, do we all
agree? Marcus asked, raising her head.
We agree, the rest said in unison.
Then God help us all.

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Chapter Nine

Hours after the meeting, Marcus went back to her hotel room to prepare for her return trip
to the White House. A group of secret service agents accompanied her to her room.
Rem, is the chopper ready? she asked the team leader.
Yes, Ms. President, Rem said. However... Rem pulled out a silver pistol and pointed
it at her head.
She froze in place.
Were ready, too, Rem said.
Rem?
Back to your room, Ms. President.
She took a deep breath and walked back inside. She saw a group of Zolinites along with
some of her personal staff sitting in her room. One of the Zolinites approached her.
Ms. President, the Zolinite said, your new Commander-in-Chief wants to see you.
Marcus slit her eyes.
After a few hours, news reports showed images of the White House being guarded by a
group of Zolinites, all armed with the OSOK guns. Further reports revealed that the captive
President Marcus had been transported back to the White House and was now being held in the
Oval Office.

The next day, Pike and his team loaded onto a military cutter and headed from Japan to
Romacovina, with several UN officials aboard. Sitting within view of Romacovina, Pike and the
UN officials hailed Kordie Cus, eventually setting up an online video conference call.

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We should put you on trial for crimes against humanity Cus, and to be executed, a UN
official said. But not before using you to make Zolins forces return the president.
You fools, Cus said. Zolin doesnt care about me. He is getting what he wants: chaos
and panic across the globe.
While the UN officials argued with Cus, Pike and his men donned scuba gear and tried to
sneak ashore Romacovina. Ready sir? asked one of Pikes men.
Does it look like Im ready, solider? Im as wet as one of the sluts I leave in the bed at
night. Lets go.
Pike and his men jumped into the waters. After several minutes, the group made it safely
to the island. They walked farther onto the beach.
Freeze, a voice in the darkness said.
A bright light shined on Pike and his men. Pike looked over his shoulder and saw a
familiar Asian, along with a group of men with silver guns.
Mr. Shit, its you. Pike said.
Get out of here, Pike, Akin said.
Pike laughed. Like a traitor.
Pike raised his gun and fired, killing three of the Romacovinians. Akin and his men
scrambled and fired back. Pikes men ran and took cover behind large boulders on the beach.
After exchanging gunshots, many of the soldiers ran out of ammo. The two groups soon clashed
in hand-to-hand combat. Akin and Pike squared off. Shit, I got a feeling taking Pike down wont
be a cake walk. Akin thought.
Come on traitor, Pike said. Give me something to sweat over.
You asked for it, Akin replied.

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296

Pike smirked. Akin leapt into the air and sent Pike flying into a wall with a side-kick.
Pike bounced off a dilapidated wall, and Akin plowed into him with a one-two combination.
Akin finished with an uppercut that sent Pike to the ground unconscious. Hmph, that was easier
than I thought. Akin said.

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Chapter Ten

Aboard the cutter, the argument continued. Ive been set up by Zolin, Cus said. Yes, I
wanted the Olympics to take place here, especially if Zolins plan succeeded on a grand scale.
Then, at least Romacovina would have some positive news coverage and hope of survival. But
now I know what the UN will try to do to us.
Cus disconnected, closing the conference call.

Later, Xavier was dragged out of his room by religious extremists representing different
denominations, but all united against Romacovina. The guards were left on the floor, dead.
Lets see you save yourself, you freak, one of the kidnappers said.
X refused to respond. He had already prepared himself for days as dark as today. The
kidnappers took X to Vatican City to be executed.

Hours later, Cus got a secure call from one of his spies. Yes? Oh Lord ... Okay. He
ended the call and dialed another number. Emergency secure code, VX771.
Cus? someone answered.
Sages, my brothers, Cus said, proceed with the evacuation plan. I believe theyre
planning to nuke our homeland when they save the Olympians, but dont go down without a
fight.

Hours after the Zolinite attack, a battle between the armies of the outside world and
Romacovina ensued. Soldiers of the UN invaded Romacovina with tanks and choppers. The

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people of Romacovina armed themselves with the silver guns. Because of this advantage, more
soldiers from the UN coalition died than those from Romacovina. A few UN troops encountered
a group of Romacovinian children, armed with their own silver guns. Wait, a UN troop said.
Dont fir
The children of the rogue nation opened fire, and killed the troops. After several more
hours and many more casualties, the Romacovinian troops retreated. What is this? the UN
coalition commander said. Why are they falling back?
Sir, should we pursue? a UN officer asked.
No, our top priority is the evacuation of the delegates.
Understood.
The rescue mission to save the Olympians somehow still went as planned. Several UN
units secured small sections of the island, with the help of called-in aerial strikes. The units
evacuated the delegates off the island.
Cus made his way back to Akin and his unit. Akins men finished off the last of Pikes
men. Akin dropkicked one of Pikes men. Cus landed with his jetpack and shot one of the
hostiles in the back with his silver gun.
Akin, Cus said, you have to save Xavier before he unleashes the curse on the world.
Ill go and save the president at the White House from Zolin.
How do you know hell be there? Akin asked Cus.
Because I know Zolin.
Akin and Cus formed rescue teams, and readied their jetpacks.
Okay, lets go, Cus said.
They all flew off to their respective assignments.

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299

The attack on Romacovina continued. The mysterious snow there began to pile up on the
ground instead of melting. It rose to two inches in depth, then four, and was soon deeper than a
foot and still rising.
From aboard a battleship off the shores of Romacovina, the UN coalition commander
asked his staff for a sit-rep.
The weather is crazy, one of his officers reported. Its been snowing since we landed,
but now its accumulatingmaking it harder for us to see and fight.
Then, on Romacovina, a few UN soldiers got yanked under the rising snow. For others,
the snow bit off the legs. Soldiers screamed and cried out for help. At that point, the UN coalition
realized that the snow was the weapon protecting Romacovina against foreign attacks.
Bastards, the UN coalition commander said. Thats why they retreated. We were drawn in and
allowed to rescue the Olympic delegates. They fooled us into thinking it was safe to invade.

Akin and his team made it to Vatican City, and as they descended from the sky, they saw
a large mass of people gathering around the center of the falling city. Akin saw that the mob had
hung a badly beaten Xavier on an X-shaped cross.
Noooo! Akin shouted.
The mob held up picket signs and chanted for his death. The signs reflected the many
different religions present: Allah, Jesus, Buddha, and Shinto. A few members of the mob saw
Akin and his men landing. Its them, one of the protestors shouted. Others from the mob
looked up and grew afraid. They scattered like roaches. Akin landed and ran up to a lifeless
Xaiver.

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Chapter Eleven

The world continued to fall into chaos, and the international stock markets crashed,
sending economies into a tailspin worse than that of the Great Depression.
Cus and his team finally reached the White House to oppose Zolin. He found Zolin
standing atop a mostly demolished White House. Destroyed their palace, too, Cus muttered.
He noticed that Zolin and his men had jetpacks also. Outside the building, Marcus stood. Several
of Zolins men guarded her. Cus watched as Zolin waved off his soldiers when they aimed their
weapons at Cus and his team.
Cus landed and faced Zolin. Why have you done this, Zolin? Cus asked.
Is that really your question for me? Zolin replied. He laughed. Im liberating
Romacovina and making you into the man your father wanted you to bea conqueror of the
world. Most of all, Im helping our people.
This was not what I wanted. You have killed the Motherland. They plan on nuking
Romacovina and its people unless I get the president to stop them.
Zolin shook his head. You dont want to save Romacovina. You want to save the world.
But the world is our enemy and they cant be saved. You know, Im kind of glad that X put me in
my place. Right there, I realized that through him, we can punish the world for its sins just like
he punished me.
Cuss eyes grew wide. He realized what Zolins plan really was. Before he could react,
Zolin pulled out a silver pistol and shot Marcus. She fell to the ground. No! Cus shouted. He
pulled out his silver pistol and shot Zolin, dropping him to the ground.

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302

The other Zolinites tried to return fire at Cus with their own silver weapons, but Cuss
jetpack gave him the speed to avoid and counter their attacks. Cuss men exchanged gunshots
with Zolins. In the end, all of Zolins men dropped dead to the ground. Only a few of Cuss men
were injured. Cus rushed over to where Marcus lay.
The world. The world is cursed, forever. Weve won, Zolin said as he coughed up
blood. Roma-cov-ina K-ovia.
Zolin died.
Moments later, Cus held up Marcuss head. Lizzy, he whispered to her. Her eyes
blinked and gazed deep into his pupils. K-Kory, She said. A couple of Cuss men stood before
the two lovers. Marcuss shoulder bled, but the OSOK bullet didnt kill her. How is this
possible? She asked, looking at the wound. I thought those weapons were fatal to outsiders.
Youre not an outsider, Cus said.
What?
I asked X to make you a citizen despite your refusal to come with us those many years
ago.
Her eyes lit up.
I couldnt lose you. I shouldve told you, Cus said.
No, no, its okay.
Marcus rubbed Cuss cheek. He leaned closer to her, and the two exchanged an intimate
kiss.

Back on Romacovina, the Olympians had been rescued. They departed Romacovina even
as the snow began to attack them.

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303

All Olympic delegates have been evacuated, the commander said.

Word soon reached the UN. Sir, one of the UN staff members said. The plan worked.
Our boys are leaving the island.
Are all of the delegates safe? one of the UN officials asked.
By a miracle.
The official nodded his head. The rest of his companions looked at him. He paused and
sighed. After the rescue ships reach safe distance, order defense command to launch a nuclear
warhead at the island.
A stealth plane launched from an aircraft carrier in the Indian Ocean. It headed straight
for Romacovina.
I authenticate 28-Echo-Gamma-GDC, the UN official said.
Confirmed, the pilot said.
In Washington DC, Cuss phone vibrated to indicate an incoming text. Cuss men patched
up Marcuss injury.
A message from Agent Akin, he said to Marcus.
Cuss eyes began to tear up as he viewed the handful of pictures that Akin sent to him
all showing Messiah X after he had been executed. Akins message simply said, The bastards
killed him.
Cus dropped to his knees and allowed the tears to flow. Marcus put a hand on his
shoulder. Now what? she asked.
Before he could answer, several US soldiers arrived on site with an officer. Their faces
looked distraught.
Over the Sea of Japan, the stealth plane fired the nuke.

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Package has been sent, the pilot reported.

In DC, the president faced the soldiers who had arrived.
What is it? Marcus asked the officer.
A giant mushroom cloud erupted into the sky half a world away.
Package has been delivered, the pilot radioed in. Returning to base.
Ms. President, the officer said, his voice cracking. A small nuke has been dropped on
Romacovina. The island has been destroyed.
Oh God no! Marcus said. Whatve I done? I thought we would have time. Time to
stop this before.... She looked at Kordie.
Crying, Cus covered his face with his hands. My people, he whispered.
No, I never meant for this to happen, Elisabeth said.
Cus rose and embraced Marcus. I know you didnt, Cus said.
After the nuclear detonation, much of the world shouted in joy over the final victory
against Romacovina; however, many also said it was genocide with the deaths of millions,
including the unnecessary death of Messiah X.
He made us better. He cured us of all our ailments. He was the answer to mankinds
problems, many experts said of X.
Thus, because of Xs death and the destruction of Romacovina, the world became divided
and plunged even further into chaos.
Now the whole world is like Romacovina before I came and saved it, Cus said to
Marcus.
The two of them sat at a conference table in a secure wing of what remained of the White
House. Both of them looked down at the table.

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I know youre innocent of any wrongdoing in all that happened, Marcus said. She
grabbed his hand. But the US government demanded that you be held stateside under house
arrest. I was able to push for your confinement to take place in the White House.
Cus said nothing, looking away at the debris in front of them.
So is this the curse Xavier was talking about? Marcus asked.
No, this is just the result of what has transpired, Cus said. The world will now mire
itself in a war unlike any other before it. It will devour itself in its own shame and hate, just as X
told me, and just as Romacovina did right after my father died.
What will it take to stop this? What will it take to get things right again?
Itll take a leader like me and a savior like X, but someone greater, more powerful, and
more influential. Only Xavier had such an unknown but amazing gift, and he is dead now.
Youre not. Kory, youre not dead, Marcus said.
Cus looked at Elisabeth. He leaned forward, took her face in his hands, and kissed her on
the lips. After several seconds, he pulled back and looked at her. Her guards didnt even have a
chance to react.
No, Lizzy, he said. Im not, but that doesnt mean Im going to be a savior-leader. Not
anymore. He looked at the two military policeman standing guard at the door. President
Marcus, do I have your permission to leave this place, or should I make my own way?
She raised an eyebrow at him and shook her head. You know I cant let you. But...
Marcus buried her face in her hands and cried. Im so sorry, Kory. I wish things wouldve
worked out. For you and your people, for us.
He touched her arm and smiled at her when she looked at him.
Yes, she said. Go. Find peace.

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Cus nodded, and then rose.

Guards, Marcus said. Please stand down.
Minutes later, Cus suited up. He gave Marcus another kiss, then donned his facemask.
The curse will be the very weapon your allies wanted, Cus said. It will come to you
just like it came to us when we defeated the factions that plagued Romacovina, but the difference
is it wont protect you. Itll hate you just as you hated us; itll kill you just as you tried to kill us.
Youll fail to destroy it just as you failed to destroy us.
What do you mean? Marcus asked.
Cus said nothing; he flew off into the cloudy, gray skies.
What do you mean? Marcus shouted. Kory!

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Chapter Twelve

Akin left Rome and flew to Wajima, Japan, where the rescued Olympians had been taken.
He looked everywhere, but could not find La-sha. He fell to his knees, looking out to sea in the
direction of Romacovina and stared at the wisps of smoke that still rose in the distance.
At the same time half a world away, Cus went into exile in Switzerland. He received a
phone call and saw that it was one of the members of the Six Sages. Yes, Cus said.
It has been accomplished, the Sage said.
Cus sighed. Thank you.

At the docks of Wajima, Japan, several more boats arrived, and large groups of people
emergedall with smeared Xs on their arms.

Excellent plan with the evacuations, the sage said. The soldiers never knew.
Yes, but the world will have to pay with their lives and freedom, Cus said.
True, but it was their fault, and Xs prophecy will undoubtedly come true.

Religious fanatics and nationalists began fighting in the streets across the world, and
international leaders argued their subjective points in their respective halls of politics.
Indeed, Cus said, but we did our part.

The world soon prepared to go to war with itself for the shame they felt for Xs death and
Romacovinas destruction.

Winter / Ran

308

Will there ever be a time where we will have peace? the Sage asked.
Yes, Cus said. There will be a savior that will rise once more from the ashes of
Romacovina. And he will be more powerful than X could have ever been. And he will save this
world just as we saved our people.

Still on his knees, Akin looked up and saw the silhouette of a woman against the evening
sun. The woman was walking toward him.
La-sha, he whispered.
They kissed and hugged each other.

Hell have to survive the coming days of mankind. Survive a curse that will never be
lifted, the Sage said.
He will. He will.

Akin and La-sha walked away, hand in hand, eager to build a new life together.

He came to us for a reason, Cus said. He will come to us again.

In her temporary quarters in the remains of the White House, Elisabeth Marcus stood at a
window and looked into the sky and noticed snowflakes floating down.

Winter / Ran

309

The blessing that X gave us will be a curse for the world, the Sage said. How did he
say it?
He said, They wanted it. They all will have it. And from it, an evil unlike any other will
use it to hunt them forever. But a savior will come. I know he will. As for the curse itself, it will
happen every year.

Akin and La-sha gazed upward.

Every year.

Both of them see snowflakes coming down.

Every winter.

Winter / Ran

310

-END-

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