The Settling 

Chapter 1

       Gazing across the town I got the most homey feeling. Their was so much love and friendship, and with small communities every one knew the other. Work continued each day and a lot of progress was made.
Tom had a doctor’s office now. He had forgotten all about plastic surgery, and really taken a liking to just being a regular doctor. We still had a few medical supplies, antibiotics, bandages, and things like that. I laughed when he showed me he still had his blood pressure cup that I gave him. There were new ones here, but he said the one he had was broken in good.
Ellie had a new kitchen in the center of town. there were no outside walls yet, but it had a roof over head, and a hole where the smoke could go, when they put up walls. Occasionally she still cooked in the huge cauldron over the open fire, but when we were removing debris and cleaning the town, we ran across an old wood cook stove. I had never seen such a bright smile upon her face as I did that day.
Hero and I had a house. Just a little small house, nothing fancy, but I did not want anything fancy. I looked at him and smiled. We still slept on the floor. It was habit I think, for during our trips we either slept on the ground or on the back of our wagon.
Elvin kept trying to marry us off, and I knew we should, but something kept telling me, not yet. It was not time. It was not just Elvin, it was everyone. Only Hero understood that it was not time, and I know he felt that way himself.
I had been here for a long time since bringing back Tom, and the others. Nessie was getting old. She had two more kids, one a nanny and one a billy. I do not think it was so much age as something wrong with her body. She was wishing to leave earth. I could see it in her eyes, I could feel her thoughts. I would miss her. She had led me to safety, nourished my body, and gave me comfort.
The town was thriving, it was safe. Curtis had worked wonders on our crops, and he was even growing grass in my yard. He found some flower seeds and he was trying his luck with that. He was no longer pudgy. The exercise he got from the yard work had slimmed him down, and he had even gotten a tan. 
Sarah Jane and Morris were getting sweet on each other. She would come over on occasion and help him with the animals. he had built a coup for the chickens, and Sarah Jane would gather the eggs.
Yes, everything was well under control. It was time to journey again. I had put it off long enough. It was not the journey itself, but the prelude to the journey. I would be traveling farther east, maybe even make it to the coast before cold weather set in. No, that was not why I kept putting it off.
My dreams, or perhaps I should call them nightmares, were more and more frequent. The evil mans face was getting nearer, though it was still in the shadows. I looked past the town towards the mountains. It was time. A thing feared is best done, and until it was done I would have no peace.
Hero looked at me, and I looked at him again. He knew even before I shook my head. “It is time?” He asked. “It is time,” I replied.
Hand in hand we walked into our little house and began packing for our journey. Though our door was open, Morris knocked before entering. “Nessie is dead.” He was very upset because he had taken a liking to her, as did everyone. But I knew Nessies wishes. Her soul was gone, it no longer inhabited the body.
“Her soul is no longer there Morris. Use the meat for food, quickly before it sits too long. Put it in the new smokehouse. We will have meat this winter. “Morris looked at me as if to protest. I went to him and hugged him. “Sweetie, this is what she would have wanted. Her soul is no longer there. It is an empty shell.” He shook his head and was biting his lip, but he left to do the task he was assigned.
We took two of the horses, and did not bother with the wagon. I was not sure of the terrain and it may be such that a wagon would not go through.
I took a deep breath, and headed towards my past.

Chapter 2

Only the waterfall where we bathed, and the tree line surrounding it gave way to the area once being a mountainside. After we passed it there was nothing for miles. I could feel Hero’s eyes upon me and I knew he worried, yet this had to be done.
I was so lost in thought and held such fear, and even determination, I had no wish to stop. The horses knew where to find water, and they would drink without us getting off. 
Darkness was falling upon us when we saw a tiny cabin. The roof had caved in, and the floor boards of the porch were haphazardly laying one top of another. There was no noise, no sound, not even a bird in the sky.
If it was not too bad on the inside perhaps we could lay our heads there this night. Slowly we entered after sidestepping all the rubble, weapons at the ready just in case.
It smelled of rotted flesh, and no wonder. In the rocking chair sat what was left of a man.He was mostly skeleton, hollow eye sockets and tufts of hair scattered here and there over a few fleshy skull parts.
He must have shot himself in the bottom of the mouth and the shot went up through his brain. His skull was cracked, well more like broken in several places. Poor soul, to end his life that way. Perhaps he feared the Cleansing, and the death that would bring him.
Hero slowly went into the other room, and tried to keep me out, but it was not happening. Upon the bed lay three little girls. Their bodies were the same shape as the mans, but they had little dresses on. It was hard to guess their ages, and I really did not want too.
They had been shot as he had, Huddled in a corner was a skeleton, must have been the mother. Was she cowering while her little ones were being shot? Why did she not try to stop him instead of cowering...I could not finish that thought. She held something, hiding something. Tears left my eyes. I was angry, berating the poor woman for being a coward, yet she was trying to protect her baby. 
She had been shot, but the baby had not. With her death it could not get the nourishment it needed. It would have been better perhaps if it had been shot. We left them as they were, and we both prayed for their souls, and that they should find strength in God’s arms.
They had lots of canned food, flashlights, lighters, and I took some of her long dresses to change into. She would not need them anymore. We gathered what we could and decided to travel a little farther. I did not think I could sleep peacefully with death. 
A fierce growl came from behind the cabin and a skeletal dog came sulking out, eyeing us warily. Its bones were definitely showing through and it had a bloody carcass of squirrel, rabbit? I was really unsure. Its growl became deadly and I wished we had not left Bane behind. Bane could have destroyed him, and we would not have too. Poor dog, caught up in a world like this. No one to feed him so he had to fend for himself. It was too late for him, he must be destroyed. He had become wild and blood thirsty. 
Hero sent me to the horses with the supplies. I did not argue with him. I did not have the heart to take its life. I did not look, I could not look. I did pray though. 
There was a small water barrel, and Hero washed his hands, then took me in his arms. I was a warrior and warriors do not cry, but I did. This time I did.
I needed to be far away from this place, the sight, the smell, the reason. I still do not understand why he took that way out, but that was his choice. Why did he have to take them with him? Yes it was possible they would have died anyway, but there was a chance.
It was a goodly distance to the next cabin, but finally we arrived. Well we could not sleep in there.It looked as if a tornado passed right through it and rearranged the porch with the cabin.
A broken picture frame lay half under a board and I pulled it out. This was the old woman’s cabin. The old woman that knew my past, but would not speak of it. The young girl was in the picture with her. Her name was Clara and she was the old woman’s granddaughter. All this time and I still never asked the old woman her name, perhaps it was fear.
We had sleeping bags from the store, and we spread them to sleep. On my knees I prayed, for safety, health, the poor dog, the dead family, and our friends. As I lay down to sleep I feared the nightmares to come, but I knew Hero would chase them away.

Chapter 3

My body was tense, I could feel the tightness knotting up my skin. I did not speak of it but Hero knew. He always knew. I just had this feeling that today was the day. The heat was intense, and sweat poured off my body. It was almost as hot as the heat at the beginning of the cleansing, almost.
We had gone for many miles and nothing in sight, just bare land. Desolate. No trees, no grass, just sand, and dirt. Still we went forward. I knew what lay behind, but I needed to know what lay forward.
I could feel my skin burn, and a hot wind began to blow. It was desert conditions, but we were not in the desert. We were supposed to be in the mountains. 
An eerie feeling came upon me, was the feel of a shadow cast upon a grave, my grave. From a distance I saw it, a pine board house. It was long like a trailer, but was made out of old pine boards. Two huge picture windows were in front, and smaller windows were scattered through out the house.
The house was intact except for a few boards upon the covered porch. The length of the porch was as long as the house. There was an old washing machine, sitting on it, leaned against the wall, and a porch swing hung on the upper end.
A big pond sat above the house and a canoe was tied to the pier. Hero took my arm and we walked the steps upon the porch. He opened the door, I stepped in, then the door was jerked out of his hands and slammed shut. I was inside and he was outside. There were pictures on the wall, I knew them, I recognized them.
I wanted to leave I tried to get out and Hero was trying to get in. But the door would not budge. I was knocked to the floor and my head hit hard. I saw him then. It was him, my nightmare man. “Why did you do that Cindy?” “What? What did I do?” There was no answer. He grabbed my hair and drug me across, the floor. I tried to get up, I tried to move, I could not. He used my hair as a rope to pick me up off the floor. My face was to the window and I could see the pain in Hero’s eyes as he tried to get to me but could not.
There was no escape for me. He slammed me into the window and the glass shattered. Blood, my face was covered in blood and I could feel the glass sticking in my head, still I could not get out and Hero could not get in.
I was slammed against the wall, then he pulled a pistol, and I felt it as it hit my head over and over again. And I knew. This was not just one beating this was all the time I had been married to him. It was all at once, and I remembered The Cleansing.
He was drunk again, passed out upon the couch, or at least I thought he was. I quietly opened the door. He jumped, grabbed me from behind, and that is when he smashed my head through the window. He pulled me back through, and I fell on my knees. He was slamming his fist into my face, and I was screaming and praying, then the earthquake. 
I remember now. I had been thrown outside but dropped gently, and the house burned with him in it. I felt arms around me holding me tightly. The house was gone, the blood was gone, I felt no pain. It was as if a nightmare I awoke from.
“What did you see?” I asked. He recounted every detail, every hurt that I had suffered, and he was as amazed as I was that I suffered no ill effects, nor cuts, and bruises. It was if it never happened.
And I heard , “My child I would not have you suffer again to bear the pain and scars. This was for a reason. You suffered for many years with him. I wanted you to realize I took him away to let you have someone so much better. I took away the bad to give you the good. Do not be afraid anymore.”
I was not afraid anymore. I loved Hero, and it was time. That is why I was shown my past, so I could have my future.
He knew. He must have know. “Lady, will you marry me.”My big tall Hero was on his knees, holding my hand out. “Yes my Hero, I will marry you.” A lovers kiss like we never shared before, and I melted in his arms.
Elvin would be tickled as would everyone in the town. My name was Cindy, but now it is Lady, Cindy was no more.

Chapter 4
It was decided that we would marry before we began our journey. Our friends and neighbors had waited patiently for quite sometime, and now they would be rewarded. 
There would be no big wedding, no cake, but I seem to recall in the cabin with the dead people had been a wedding dress. Yes it was white, and though I had been married once before we were beginning again so I saw no harm in it. It did need to be aired out and she would not need it again.
Perhaps we should send a team up here later on to bury them and maybe clear it out, or burn it down. There were children’s toys, pots, pans, any number of things that could be useful, or perhaps we could leave it for travelers.
I would not be back that way, my past had retreated and it would not be revived. I think none of our people would stay there for fear of ghosts haunting the cabin, only because they would know what happened, a traveler would not.
I gathered my treasure, gave up my ragged hiking boots for a pair of sandals, and.... no. I would take the sandals but I could not leave my boots. I know I sighed out loud when Hero looked my way and laughed. I shook my head and laughed with him. Those boots were me. We had been through the cleansing, the deepest sand, water, caves, they were such a huge part of me. “But Hero, I will not wear them down the isle.” That got me a hug and a nibble on the ear. 
It was a happy day, and a great trip back to New Beginnings. I was looking forward to being back home, but I was also curious what our travels farther east would bring. I did not fear because I know God would care for us.
I took one last look at the cabin where the people had died, thanked them for their possessions’s, and asked God to protect their souls, at least the mother and children. 
The sun had almost taken a full turn and soon we would need to find a place to lay for the night. We tried to be sparing with batteries anymore, so as not to deplete our store. The moon was going to be full tonight, and the light would guide us for awhile.
Upon the horses now, we hit the trail and I was in hopes we could make it to the waterfall. There we could bathe, and even though it was almost into town, I was tired and needed just a little quite time, before all the activity of a wedding.
I tried to remember what happened at the cabin, tried to pull up the pain, but I could not. That was good. It was gone, forgotten, and my past could not hurt me anymore, for I had no past.
“I love you Hero,” He had been looking straight ahead, lost in his own thoughts, but not for long.He had the most amazing smile, and I could not get enough. “I love you too, Lady. Side by side, horse by horse, hand in hand, we continued our journey.
We reached the waterfall, bathed, and yes we agreed that this was a perfect place to stay the night. Our blankets were spread underneath a tree beside the waterfall. Sleep came quickly, and at first a deep, dreamless sleep.
But the new nightmares came. I was preparing for my wedding. The wedding dress from the cabin was stretched over my arm. I was admiring the texture, running my fingers over it. Each place my finger touched turned to ashes. My fingers were burning, and I watched as tiny blisters formed upon each finger, then my wrist, and I know I screamed. Hero was shaking me awake, holding me, saying soothing words, but I was shaking so hard and trying to see my fingers in the dark.
“Lady, please Lady calm yourself. I took deep breaths and laid my head upon his shoulder. He could not hold me tight enough. Something evil was coming this way.
I knew I could sleep no more, so we gathered our possessions, mounted the horses, and headed for home. I did not tell Hero, but I am sure he noticed the raven that had followed us since I left my past behind. And still he followed.

And Evil Enters
Sparkling eyes, visions long forseen,
Ancient mysteries, mist of captured dreams.
Piercing eyes, deceiver of endless lost souls,
Random tunes, songs blood unfolds.
New Beginnings darkened clouds loom,
Fear ye townspeople I sing your doom.
None shall escape tortures in the blood,
Land, land, deliver us from evils flood.

Chapter 5

The moon had turned away as we entered town. I could not get over the eerie feeling that something bad was about to happen. I tried to smile, joke, and be happy for it was expected of me, yet it was becoming extremely hard to do. I led the horse to Morris for a rub down, though I could do it he always insisted. I suppose we should name the horses but I really did not know why. I handed the reins to Morris and removed my pack throwing it over my shoulder, and a flash of the future shot through. How far in the future? And what?
Rambling thoughts flitted through my brain. I really was trying to avoid the nightmare and I had no desire to talk about it, though I knew Hero wished it so. He was watching me, I could feel it. He also removed his pack and gave Morris his horse.
He took my hand in his and led me into the house. He sat in the only chair we had and pulled me into his lap. I laid my head on his shoulder and could not hold the flow of tears anymore. He said nothing, just held me as I cried.
No one disturbed us. I am sure they thought we slept from our journey and I probably could. Lack of sleep had caught me and Hero’s soothing arms taunted me in a web of relaxation. I barely remember being laid upon the pile of blankets in the floor, and I remember telling God goodnight, and I remember Hero’s kiss. I felt him lay beside me, I knew he was there. He was I know, but as I reached for him I could not find him. I could hear his voice distant miles away. He promised never to leave me, but he did. His face loomed before me and I calmed some until like the dress his face became ash. 
“No Lady, I will not ever leave you. I am here, I am here now. Take my hand, squeeze it. I am real. I felt him kiss my cheek, I felt him kissing my tears away. My Hero, I loved him so much, and I did not know why yet, but I know soon he would have to leave me.
I think I slept a little. Hero was not there when I awoke, but he had trouble sleeping with the sun. I stood up and stretched, no matter what happened this day I was determined to be Mrs. ah well I guess Mrs. Hero. Sounds good to me. I tried to smile and succeeded a little anyway. 
I looked out the door and my gloomy mood disappeared. Not even married yet but my wedding present was being carried by four stout men. A bed of all things. A big old oak bed frame, and I had no idea where the mattress came from.
It was a sight to behold. this time the tears from my eyes were happy tears. I pushed back the nightmares and embraced all the love from these people, my family. Yes, no matter our names or the location we came from, we were family.
They brought it in, sat it down, and I gave them all a big tight hug. Then ran them all out. I had a wedding to prepare for, but before I did I asked a favor of Hero. “Would you please burn all the clothes I brought from the cabin?” “Lady, if that is your wish it will be done.” He did not ask the reason, or argue over it. “And Hero, we should not remove anything else from that cabin. It must be burnt.” He held me in his arms and said “ It will be as you wish. Are you still willing to marry me?”  I smiled into his eyes, “Of course, I intend on readying myself right now, you better not back out.” “Oh Lady I will not back out, in fact I have already spoken to Elvin. Our people are preparing the church as we speak.” 
“I will leave you to ready yourself and I must go ready myself.” He blew me a kiss and walked out the door. When I spoke of burning those things my happiness returned. I guess you could not have new beginnings with old things.
And whistling a happy tune unaware of the things to come. It was more than the clothes, much, much more. 


Chapter 6
My wedding day. I really never thought it would happen. I did not have a wedding dress but I still had some skirts from Wal-Mart that I had never worn. Actually that would be perfect after all that was where Hero and I first met. 
Back in the old days you were not supposed to see the bride until the wedding day, but we started a new tradition. Hero met me at the door, and we walked to the church together. I had no father here, so Hero and I walked down the aisle together. 
Sarah Jane gave me a bouquet of flowers then silently disappeared. Elvin waited by a flower filled alter. They were fake flowers, but I loved the thought and the time they had put in to decorating.
I think Sara Jane wanted to sew me a wedding dress, but it happened quickly. Once our minds made it all fell into place. A while back Elvin had found a Bible in the store, and though he held it, most of his words were from memory. 
Short and simple, I think I had the most wonderful wedding any woman could have. Hero and I were truly man and wife.  All the women, which were not very many, gathered for the throwing of the bouquet. 
There was the old woman, Clara , her granddaughter, Sarah Jane, Jessica from the cave, and Tonya, from the other section of cave that held me prisoner. I turned my back and threw it. A cheer went up and as I turned I saw Morris with a red face. 
Sarah Jane had caught the bouquet, and we all laughed. It was no surprise. 
Well so much for saving batteries. The cd player was cranked up, a big bonfire lit, and the table had a feast. And for the first time since the cleansing there was meat. Goat stew to be exact and I thanked God and Nessie for the bounty we were given. Tomatoes, corn? Curtis had done well.
I was so proud of everyone and once again thought how blessed I was and how this was the most special wedding day a girl could have.
Hero took my hand and led me too our little house. He picked me up amongst lots of good natured cheering, and carried me across the threshold. He really did look so handsome in is jeans and tee shirt. I had never seen him in those before. He had a faded pair he always wore, and a sleeveless tee shirt, but these were new.
He smiled and his eyes crinkled in the corners, “Wal-Mart, the day we met.” So we both had gotten our wedding clothes the day we met. After changing we went out to enjoy the party.
We danced for a long time and I just had to sit down. 
Hero and I sat in chairs by the fire and my mind drifted with the flames. I could see shadows in the smoke and I heard screams of hundreds of people. I jumped up and looked around, but everything was still normal.
Hero stood as well. “What is it lady? What has you so worried? “I do not know Hero, just visions, signs, do not worry. It is our wedding day.” We were married now, we were allowed a passionate kiss, but I had forgotten the crowd. 
We all were given a glass of tea and Elvin made a toast, “May you always trust in the Lord to guide you, and trust in each other the rest of your days. May love hold you steady.” A loud cheer went up, and there was such a great noise we did not her the screams of the family until they came running in.
The woman ran to me and grabbed my hand, “Help us,please help us,” Then she collapsed, as did the boy and man.  I could feel the burn upon my hand and I could see blisters upon the woman. The man and boy had them as well.
“Back everyone, stay back. They are diseased.” Tom came forward with gloves and some kind of mask he found to cover his nose and mouth. Johnny did the same. “Johnny, no,” “Lady, I have been helping Tom. He needs me and I can help him. He needs help. “Lady I promise I will be careful.” And he kissed me on the cheek. Little Johnny was not so little anymore.
The man was not as bad as the woman and child, he was still able to speak and he pulled himself up to a sitting position, but it sapped his strength. “There are many of us. Farther east upon the beach. Help us. Help them.”
I could feel the burn still on my hand, and the fear ran deep, but we must go. I must go. I was afraid that I already had what ever it was, so I could go, but Hero must stay.
“Quarantine them,” Tom told Johnny, “we need to find out what this is and we can not risk it spreading.” 
I did not say a word, I just walked into the house got on my knees and prayed for a safe journey and began to pack. Hero came in and without a word began to pack as well. “No Hero, I go on my own. “He reached for me but I could not let him touch me. 
Tears began to fall. My wedding night and my husband could not even hold my hand. “Hero she touched me. I may have this, you do not. We can not let it spread. I must go see how many and how I can help.”
“I must go alone.”  The sadness in his eyes tore my heart, but then he came up with determination to travel with me. I willed it so but it could not be.
“You will not go alone. I will never part from you lady, you know this. I go and you can not stop me.”
I could not sleep and I had no desire to see my husband suffer with a disease we knew nothing of. I had it, he did not, and I was determined he would not. We were planning on leaving at dawns first light, but as Hero slept, I quietly left. It was so hard leaving my heart, but I had to.

Chapter 7
Though I was not told where this town was I was being guided in the right direction. I was so used to having Hero by my side and though we never spoke much, (we did not have to our thoughts were enough) just knowing he was there always helped. I missed him even though we had not been parted a full day yet. Funny thing though, before I met Hero I always traveled alone and it did not bother me, but now, he had become all my thoughts.
The horse moved slow, but it did not matter, we would get there. The burn traveled from my fingers to my shoulders now, and blisters appeared. Weepy, crusting blisters. The farther I traveled the hotter the sun became and I wrapped myself like we had earlier in the cleansing. I did not know how much of the heat was from the sun, or from the sickness. She had given me the disease and though I was unsure, I could only believe it was deadly. I know it transfered to others quickly for she had given it to me.
There was a place upon the waters edge, a massive rock half in the sand half in the water. Would be a good place to rest, and water the horse. I was not sure of the water yet, though I could feel a cool spray from the waves. Salt. This must be part of the east coast. The horse would not drink of it, and I suspected as much. I had some bottles of water and let him drink his fill.
Then I understood, there were bodies floating in the water, not just a few but hundreds. I closed my eyes, the screams from my vision. I wished to see no more of this. I did not mount the horse but lead him away. We walked and walked, my eyes trying to avoid the waters view.
I saw the sun shine upon it. It took a moment to figure out what it was. The glare of the sun was blinding upon the carcass of the airplane. Several tons of steel, scattered upon the sand, some on the waters edge, some in the water. A big chunk spread before me, and I thought to at least get out of the sun for a few moments. The horse knew to find a safe place so I left him where he was, and I decided to explore the plane.
One foot into the plane and a feeling of desperation came over me. I climbed in. The smell of the dead caught my nostrils, and I covered my mouth and nose with a bandana.  Not only could I smell death, I could feel it as well. 
Scattered remanents of the passengers were tossed here and there, but it was all just burned fragments. Pieces of their former lives reduced to ash and rubble. Pictures, cell phones, laptops, all the technology and nothing to help.
Maybe that was our biggest problems, technology and time. We lost sight of love, and friendship. A face to face conversation, a hug without saying hugs over the Internet or a cell phone message. Our personal became impersonal.
I was shivering now. Not from cold, for even in here the sun held torturous heat.No it was from the vibes I was getting. There was a curtain separating this area from that. I could feel terror, I could hear the screams, and oh how the cries tore at my heart. I could feel my tears slowly ease down my cheek. I did not want to look, but I had too. It was not in me to turn away.
Slowly I walked to the blood spattered curtain, and pulled it back. Two rows of seats, two passengers to a row, all skeletons now, jaw bones frozen in screams and cries. All still strapped in their seats.
Men, women, children, a couple with skeletal hands entwined, facing each other as if to say goodbye.
I fell to my knees and cried, and I prayed. Then I just sat there staring at a picture that somehow managed to escape destruction. A man, a woman, and two young girls, a family portrait. 
I could not stop my tears then and did not want to. I had held them far too long and they needed an escape, I needed escape. I stood up and practically ran from the plane. It was just too much.
On the other side of the plane were several boats, some floating aimlessly, some half sunk with broken hulls, some washed up on the shore, scattered pieces.
Later I would explore, but not now. I could not even think of going in at the moment. But that did not deter me from my purpose. I had to find a place out of the sun, and if I could not,( I shivered), I would have to go back in the plane.
Something caught my attention and I looked up.
A cliff separated more land from the water and I knew I must climb over. The horse could not make this climb and I feared his safety if left behind. A slight moon as darkness appeared. It was later than I first thought, but still I must rest.
I whispered in the horses ear, I knew he would understand. I felt eyes upon me and I really do not know how long but the raven was here. It had followed me. It come close upon me and I saw hope. The eyes were like the eyes of Nessie. The raven was not meant to harm, but to help. It landed upon the horse and the horse turned and galloped away. He was going home, he would be safe. 
Climbing over the rocks was a chore. I slipped and slid, getting cuts, scrapes, and bruises, and in the midst of it all was a cave. I looked carefully before I entered to make sure no evil lurked. There were boulders around the sides and I hid behind one. I did not think it wise to be in the open.
Once I was settled I unwrapped. I winced as my wrappings caught the oozing liquid from my blisters. They had spread. I could feel them on my neck now, and I was getting feverish. I took some water and sparingly cooled my forehead down. I took a sip, but only a sip. I did not know when or where I could find more. I leaned back against the wall of the cave. It was a little cooler in here. I closed my eyes and dozed.
A touch of sleep and slight wakefulness and screams enter my thoughts. These were not dreams but reality.
There was gunfire sounded like air shots, several of them had guns. “Silence. Line up.” More gun shots, screams, then quietness as the evil ones had gone. It was quite now, too quite.
I prayed for the people, I prayed for Hero, and prayed for myself. “Hero, I love you,” I whispered quietly.
“I love you too Lady, and do not ever pull a stunt like this again. Hear me well.” “I hear you Hero, but you can not touch me.” “Oh my Lady yes I can. Tom has a salve that can make the blisters disappear if caught in time. I brought Johnny, he will help. Tomorrow will be soon enough.”
He took my hand and rubbed the salve all the way up my arm. He took me in his arms and tears of joy touched me. Johnny came and sat with us, and the raven watched from outside the cave.
I slept at peace.

Chapter 8
Come Forth Deaths Angel

Nightmares angel soul unrest,
Gather forward fallen crest.
Armies mass violence awake,
Lying down souls to take.

Rising sun blood bath scene,
Nightmares haunt days dream.
Worlds ending earths revenge,
Shattered forces darkness unhinge

And the moon turned away showing the presence of the morning sun. I awoke after a most restful night and really thanked God that Hero had come. I did not wish harm to come to him, nor the infection capture his body as it had mine.
The salve was working and though there was not much Tom was creating more. Johnny told of a building the townspeople were working on. It would be a hospital. We could isolate these people and heal them. That would add to the town and help them as well.
I knew not how to deal with the bodies in the ocean. God would care for them. I could pray for their souls though. The gun shots and screams worried me. I could not see the action for the cliffs blockage, and I had been to weak at the time to do anything.  But a thing feared is a thing best done.
I felt his eyes upon me, my heart beat to loves rhythm. It was always thus with him. If I lost him my heart would catch a fire, the blaze eating away my soul.Since the beginning he had been my heart, he knew my mind , and the mystical energy that gave me life.
“Johnny stay behind us, anything out of the way for you to fear , run.” The raven had remained and I knew then. She would be as Nessie had, a friend, protector, and guide us to safety.
After leaving the cave the cliff stretched before us. We were only about midway across. I tried to avoid looking out to sea, but it was impossible. The bodies were still there so it could not be a mirage. The bodies not only consisted of human, but sea life as well. Several sharks, dolphins, whales, parts of flesh eaten away. I turned away.
The raven visited the edge of the sea and drank of it. The sea was not poisoned. It was a combination of ship wrecks, whaling ships, and heat, many things a great combination. I walked to the edge of the cliff and stood silent, praying for the lives taken.
We continued till the sun was turning away and spied a rock ledge. A small rest before we came upon the sand again. I was high enough to see the beach but protected from any eyes from the beach.
People were coming from directions, walking, staggering, walking death. They were not zombies, but humans ailing from some disease. I must go down. I must help these people.  One fell and though she struggled she could not rise. She just lay there in the sand people walking around her, over her, and falling beside her. 
Three had fallen, there was another and another. Johnny had found some binoculars in the old store and he handed them too me. As the people that arrived in our town had blisters so did these.
I heard gun shots again as the day before. We hid behind a boulder and watched the horror unfold. Four men with masks upon their faces and gloves on their hands appeared.  In a matter of minutes a horse pulling a wagon appeared. It was not just any wagon though. No this wagon had a roof and bars around the sides as an old police wagon. 
They took a barrel of water or some form of liquid and sat it out. People flocked to it. They were getting violently ill. That was what had created the disease.
They fired their guns up in the air and the people tried to run, but as their sickness took them they could not. 
The tallest of the men had a rope and he was lassoing women. They were putting them in the cart. As the cart filled and began to move away, the gun shots began again this time, people were the targets.
Hero held me telling me soothing things. I needed to help these people but his strength was such that he would not let me go. “The time will come Lady, but not yet. We will help these people.
I watched as they picked up the lifeless bodies and tossed them into the ocean. 
Come forth death’s angel.

Chapter 9
They had gone now and a quietness had settled upon the beaches shore. I was trying to comprehend the evilness that had happened. I knew I had to help these people, but how. I did not understand why they were poisoning them just to kill them, but perhaps it was not poison. 
They carried women off, but not all women. There must be a purpose and though I wished it not, it must be so. The women were young, the old ones left behind. They took them for pleasure and re population. That had to be it. 
But why kill the rest? Why spread the disease just to kill them anyway? Only part of their actions made sense. Then a thought occurred they grabbed the women before they drank. They never ingested the liquid.
The raven flew to our position and I caught movement from the corner of my eye. Screams from the survivors. They had poisoned them, not to kill them, but to feed the creatures that had gathered below.
The bullets had only wounded some of the victims. The creatures were not quick and they drug their toeless feet as they walked. They had long fingers with sharpened claws . They were like the flesh eating cannibals at Wal-Mart.
There were many. They were even walking into the waters to gather bodies of the dead. I tried covering my ears to hide the screams, so I could not hear them, I did not want to hear them. The bodies were being drug away, and I held no hope that they would survive.
It was possible to save the women though. If I could only get to them before the men on horses, I could save some of them. Both times they arrived before the moon took its turn up in the sky. If I could judge the time correctly then perhaps.
We had to try. If we did not the growth rate of the creatures would gain, and if they began to spread they may find New Beginnings. 
The beach was clean now, no bodies, no barrel of liquid, nothing.  Where did the people come from to begin with. Perhaps if we found them before the sun turned away......
“Lady we must go now. We can not wait till evening. We start sending them in this direction. We can take out the ones with guns, but there are too many creatures. 
Hero was right. We must find then now. I wanted to find the women. I felt for them, but they were gone. “God, please take care of those women. Please do not let them suffer over much. And Lord please keep us safe as we try to help these people.
“Johnny, stay. As we send them gather them in the cave. I am not sure that the creatures can climb the rock, but we hope to be gone before then.” “But I can help y’all. “You can help best by staying here. They may need treating. They will need you for that.”
Hero and I began our descent from the cliff . I felt eyes upon us, but I saw nothing. I felt an odd sense of not really doom, but a sense of a rabbit in a trap. 
It was a feeling I could not shake.

Chapter 10
In the beginning there was time, then time disappeared. Rush, rush, rush there was no time for anything. Work, make money survive. And now there was time again. He had all the time in this new world.
He was king, he held many lives in his hands. The rules were his to make. He loved power and the control it gave him. His city was coming along nicely. Nothing fancy, but he was filling the womens homes. It did not matter what the people wanted, what the women wanted. He cleaned them up, clothed and sheltered them.They should be thankful he removed them from the caves. At least he had saved them from the creatures.  But some of the women fought. He had to slap them around some and put them in isolation, but eventually they all came around.
In the beginning after the earth’s destruction he gathered a few of the remainders. They would build his town, they would build his kingdom.They would work for him. He held little trust in them, of course he did not really trust anyone, yet he needed people. He used people. He would save them then make them do his will. They were his slaves and he was master.
Three of the women were already with child, and he depended on them for his city to grow. The pregnant women were treated like queens till after the birth, then they were cast aside, used and abused unless or until they became pregnant again. He cared nothing for them, just the prize they could bring. He preferred male children to teach the art of war, but he could use the females too. They would provide comfort and aid wounded.
He needed children to grow and mold into the people he needed. The town must be full and soon he would expand. He would create an army to take over other villages, other towns, and he knew there were others. He wanted this new world. He wanted power.
It was only a glimpse, but he saw her. He wanted her. Not for the womens house, but to dwell with him. She would be his queen, and he would destroy the two with her. He knew not what made him glance that way, or why she was different, but she would be his by the suns turn, and the man that held her would die a slow painful death.
An old hotel had become his home and he looked out upon his kingdom.His name had been lost with the old world’s death, along with his history. He needed a name, but he could think of none that suited him. A conversation was overheard in which he had been called Diablo. Yes. He liked it, and so he had taken the name Diablo. The devil. Insane laughter came from deep within his soul. The man had died for his insolence but he proved the name suited him.
He left the window, and grabbed a drink. There was little left. Most of the beachfront had been destroyed but this hotel, and the cellar of another remained intact. Most of the liquor had been busted but some remained. The more he drank the more he knew she played an important role in his life.
He could not forget her, this women upon the cliff. She had touched him like no other could. An angel, perhaps? Was she just a vision to taunt him? He must go back, now. He could not wait till the evening. He could not wait. The angel would be his. He would turn the angel into his mate. The angel and the devil, what a match.


Chapter 11

Entering the cave nearly took my breath away. The stench was horrible. It was extrememly crowded. Men, women, children, even the aged, were almost upon each other sitting against the walls. It was a huge cave that went farther back into the cliff. Why did they not spread out I could feel the fear, see the fear on their faces as I shined the light. “Come, we must get you out of here.” They would not move, but they must. I could not let them go through this anymore. They had lost many, but there were still many. ‘Come we are here to help you.We must leave before they return”

Finally one young girl stood. An older woman tried to pull her down, but she refused. “No mama I want to go. I think it would be better than waiting on our turn to die. Soon we will be so hungry and thirsty we will risk it. And what of the creatures that come from the cliffs. I am going.” I had wondered where the creatures came from. My mind had been on the horrific scene that I had not even wondered how they came about. They jumped from the cliffs onto the beach. 

Luck had served that we took shelter in an empty cave. We led the girl out and one by one, the others followed. They walked as if dead. They stumbled, staggered, some fell, but we helped them up. We needed to save as many as we could.

They started upon the cliffs where Johnny waited. He kept them moving to the other side of the cliffs. There he would make sure they were able to survive the trip. Johnny and Hero had brought the wagon. I did not know this till now but it was good.

And then I heard thundering hooves and shots rang out. “Go, Go, make it to the other side of the cliffs. You will be safe.” They moved as quickly as they could in their malnourished state, some fell, others helped them. Some did not make it.

The gunfire had brought the creatures out. Our group had made it to the wagon, all but Hero and I. “Come Lady we must go.” He had stepped up the rock leading to the cliffs and reached for my hand. I almost reached him. 

A rope tightened upon my waste. He had caught me. I heard a gunshot and Hero went down. He fell off the rocks edge onto the sand. Creatures rushed for him. I screamed. I tried running to him but the rope had been tied to the horse and I was being pulled backwards. I fell and was drug across the sand. I clawed at the sand trying to reach my Hero. 

“Lady, Lady.” he was trying to crawl to me. The evil one, (I was to find later he called himself Diablo) threw me in the wagon cage, I fought to get out and his fist connected with my eye. I did not care, I wanted my Hero. 

The evil one fimally got the door shut and locked. No matter my efforts I could not break free. I tried, I really did, but the bars were to strong. My weapons must have been lost in the sand. I had nothing.

One last look through my swollen eye, and I wished I had not seen. Creatures surrounded Hero, and I watched as he struggled to break free.

I saw Johnny taking the last of them across the cliffs, and the raven followed me across the tear streaked sky. The rains had come.

“God, please save Hero. Do not let him die in that way. Help Johnny and the people find home safely. Thank you for listening.”  I was tossed back and forth, seemed like forever, but the sun had not turned yet, so what seemed a long time must not have been.

Mass destruction had hit. Where once had been many high rise hotels, resturants, even gaming rooms was now rubble. Only one hotel stood, and it looked as if it had withstood everything. It had not been touched. And that is where we stopped, The Holiday Inn.

I was ready. When they opened the door I was ready, but the evil one anticipated the trouble I would cause. He called three men. he opened the door and they held me as he put handcuffs on me.

I stared him in the face. I held no fear. “Come woman, we will get you settled.” “My name is not woman it is Lady, and I will not be here long enough to get settled.” 

“Well I am Diablo, the devil, and you will be here forever.” I do not know why but I laughed in his face, “Well Mister Devil, I am married, Hero will come for me, and God will protect me.”

“Your Hero is dead. You saw it happen, and if your God will protect you how did I end up with you?” “I do not know God’s reasons, but they will become clear. I have nothing more to say.” I did not struggle anymore, I did not speak, I did not fight. My reason for being here would become clear, if I but have faith.

I held my head high and walked ahead. I knew not where I was going, but I would not let the devil win. I was a child of God, and though I walked in the devils lair, the Lord was with me. I did not fear.

Chapter 12

Most of the people that crossed his path, would survive. There were a lot of blisters, and swelling, but he had brought a lot of gloves with him. This task was giving him a lot of experience and he wanted to make Tom, Lady, and Hero proud of him. 

He figured he was eleven, maybe twelve, and Lady already said he was a man. It had to be because of what happened to the earth. They all had to grow up quicker. He did not remind the task set before him. Since Tom had saved his leg, he had wanted to learn the medical field. He laughed to himself. He used to call it doctoring, but Tom would always correct him. He now called it medical field.

He loved his new family, and did not ever want to do anything to hurt them. Johnny never had a family, not that he could remember. He remembered the streets though, and foraging for food, begging for money, in fact he gave himself the name Johnny.

Everyone would always say hey boy come here. He wanted a name, needed a name. He never thought about the lonliness, or being loved, until he met Lady and Tom. Then Hero came into their lives. 

It was almost mecanical watching the survivors cross the cliff, then enter the wagon. It would be so much easier to get everyone in the wagon, then treat them all at once. At least they were all moving in one rhythm, not moving in a panic.

Gunshots and screams, “Keep moving, y’all. Get in the wagon, move now.” That was all the motivation they needed. He ran across the rock cliff, slid and scraped his leg. He had no time to feel the pain, no time to worry over the blood. Lady and Hero, needed him.

He was horrified at the scene before him. The evil one was taking Lady away. Where was Hero? There were so many creatures that he could not spot Hero. There... No, it could not be. The creatures had Hero, and he was going down. Blood, so much blood everywhere. Tears slipped from his eyes. He did not care. Yes, he was a man, but he still had that lost little boy in him. Hero was the closest thing to a daddy he had ever had....Wait. He was not done fighting yet.

In his pocket he had some goat jerky. He took it wrapped it around a firecracker he had in his pocket, lit it and threw it. The creatures ran for it. He snuck as close as he could, and as he reached Hero, the firecracker went off causing the creatures to scatter. Ah Nessie you are still protecting us. He smiled. It was a small smile, but a smile nonetheless. 

The display gave him the time he needed to get Hero. There were no visible bites, but Hero had held them off and he was still fighting. “Hero, Hero, it is me. Calm down so I can help you.” He had been shot. Oh no, Johnny knew nothing about gun shot wounds, and it was in the chest too. Luckily it had not hit his heart.

“I need some help here,”He yelled loudly. Two of the men, though weak themselves, helped Johnny get Hero to the wagon. The others made room. Johnny stayed in back to do what he could for Hero and the others.

He covered Hero with gloves and sleeves, even though he was having trouble breathing, Johnny put a mask over his nose and mouth. He did not need the disease on top of the gunshot. He had wanted to bring the horses but Hero had chosen Jezzie, and now Johnny was thankful. Jezzie knew where to go so Johnny could stay back here  and tend the injured especially Hero.

He did not like this place called the East Coast, but he knew he would make another trip. He would not let Hero die, and together they would come for Lady. A sudden rage filled his soul. He better not hurt Lady.He just better not.

Hero had passed out earlier, but now he was coming back. “Lady, Lady, where are you?’ He tried to rise, tried to go back, but that would not be wise. “We need to find her, need to save her.” “Hero, the raven knows where she is. It followed her. You are in no shape, and I can not do it alone. I would give anything to have Lady here with us, now. Trust in God, Hero.” Hero did not hear his words for he had already closed his mind, and slept.

It would be several turns of the moon before they would be home. Johnny was scared, but God made sure they all arrived alive at New Beginnings.

Chapter 13

It was now time to .....mourn? But I could not. I did not think Hero was dead, could not believe he was dead. I had been led to a room, dirty sheets, and the smell of sweat, a small barrel of dirty water in a corner.

Upon the bed lay a long, low cut dress, and the worst gaudy red color  I have ever seen. What did he think of me? Did he think I would be like the others and give him pleasure for a room like this? Ha. What an idiot. No one would ever touch me, no one except my Hero.

I apologized to God for losing my temper with the ....devil? Could I say that? Here I am in a destroyed city, a child of God, and I am being treated like a fallen woman. I dare say that will not work.

I must clear my head, for the evil one will return soon, and I must prepare for the battle. I wanted to mourn, well not really mourn for the more I felt and thought, the more I knew he still lived. Johnny would do what was necessary to bring about his survival. He was in very good hands, though I wished he were in mine. I could feel him in my heart, and the tears finally released their hold upon my eyes. Walking to the window, brought the destruction in view. My first impression from the police wagon had been correct. This was the only building intact.. there were others, but they were ruins,collapsed upon themselves.

And there was my raven. Oh what a blessed feeling indeed. I know he could not help with an escape, in fact I do not think I was meant to escape yet, not till I could find the other women. I realized this was my purpose in being caught, the other women. The pregnant women would work well for New Beginnings, and I am sure Tom and Johnny qould give them better care than they recieved here.

I tried to dry my tears as the raven came closer. If their had been no bars on the window I could have reached out to touch, but this experience was much more amazing than that. I was mesmerized by the ravens eyes, and I could see through them.

My heart hurt as I saw my Hero, lying there, bloody and pale, but I could see his heart’s beat, and feel his love. I so wanted to reach out and touch him, but I could not. They were safe and that was enough for the moment.

Footsteps approached. I dried my tears as best I could, and noticed the raven had flown away. That was good, I would not wish the raven to danger. A deep breath, and another, and another, and my head was held high as the door was opened and Diablo walked in.

He had washed and bathed. Ha did he think that would change my mind. Oh flowers, and what was that chocolate , oh so he had come a courting. He reached for my hand. I shivered. Did he think to kiss it? Good luck with that.

A silent prayer went to my Father in heaven. Lord would you please guide me in the way you want this to go. He held his hand out for me to take the flowers. One, two, three, I took them, then threw them across the room. The chocolate followed, (That was hard because I loved chocolate)some things had to be sacrificed.

I could see he was getting angry, and as of yet I was not so sure how far I could push him. Even though he had taken the devil’s name I knew he was not the real one. He was a man, a human. I have fought ghost’s, cannibal’s, creatures, I would fight this man also.

“Why do you not have dress on?” I stuck my nose up in the air. “It stinks, it is ugly, and definatley not my color. I will not put it on.” “You will do as I say, or you will suffer.” “I have no intentions of wearing that dress, or letting you court me.”

I should have been prepared for it but I was not. I felt his fist connect with the side of my head and stumbled backwards. I fell to the floor and he grabbed the front of my shirt ripping it down the front. He tried to push my long Wal-Mart skirt up but I would have none of that. I kicked, I scratched, I bit, no holes barred in this fight.

He grabbed me up by the hair of the head, and led me down, down, and farther down. A basement. Damp, dark, basement with a dim light. He finally let go my hair and pushed me in. “I will give you two days to think on this, then I will return. You will be more than ready to comply.You will see.” “I do not think so. I am married, no other will touch me.” I shot your so called husband, and left the creatures to finish him off.” 

I would argue no more. let him think as he wished. When Hero came for me, and he would come, he would regret his actions. I looked around my little basement room. Their was a window, but it was very high up. But my raven found a way. I could see him, but barely.

I heard a moan, and realized I was not alone. A young girl, could not have been more than fourteen, sat against the wall. She was bruised and battered with her right eye swelled shut. Dried blood covered her bottom lip, and a huge gash ran from elbow to wrist.

I slowly approached her, and she shrank back in fear. “No need to fear me little one. God has sent me to help you.” The poor child broke down in tears, and I broke down as well.She was pregnant.

Chapter 14

There was an old iron bed near the window, and after helping her to her feet I led her there. The sheets were nasty and the bed smelled of sweat, and other things, but it was better than her sitting on the cold dirt floor.

I sat beside her and she laid her head upon my shoulder. I put my arms around her, rocking her, speaking soothing words. It was not long before she slept. I slowly eased her down on the bed, and stood. I tried tying my shirt to cover most of nudity, but it did not help much. 

There was no escape that I saw at the moment so it was just as well that I slept too. I needed the rest in order to think, and react quickly when the time came. And it would come. God had brought me here for a purpose, and He would make a way for me.

I slid the girl over, she still sniffled every now and again, and lay beside her. No, not yet. I could not sleep yet. There was something I was trying to remember. Perhaps it would come soon. I got on my knees and thanked God for Hero, all my family at New Beginnings, the people on their way home now, and cried for the little girl, and the deaths that had come by the devil’s hand. I went on and on, pouring out my heart and soul, giving it all to God.

I felt sweet release. My heart had eased, and I knew things would be well. I needed to be patient and God would guide me. I lay back down upon the bed and watched the girl as she slept. I know she was scared and alone. I think she could stay with Hero and I, at least until the child was born, or she found a mate.

I did not feel myself drift off, but I did. Or at least I think I did. It was such a beautiful garden, with amazing flowers unlike any I had ever see. Trees so tall, they could reach up and touch the sky. I was in awe of such a sight. There were all manner of birds flying and singing their tunes, and the hummingbirds; all I could say was wow. Many butterflies fluttered here and yon, at peace.

There she stood in a bright light. She was so beautiful. Her hair was the color of cornsilk and it reached her ankles. A long gown of pure white adorned her body. Wings and a golden halo, yes she was an angel. Had I died? 

“No Lady, you did not die. My name is Aubreyara, but you may call me Nessie. I wished to meet you. Really meet you. Yes I was and still am your guardian angel. My soul stays near you to guide you. I wonder though, why have you not named the raven? A beautiful, bright smile, lit her face. I smiled back. I could not help myself. “ Because the name raven seems to suit it. 

Oh what bright laughter came from her, and the amazing sparkle from her eyes. “I miss you Nessie.” tears were leaving my eyes. “Oh Lady I miss you too, but I am still with you, just in a different form. You and Hero have done well. You two are destined for great things.”

Now he is coming. You must awaken and watch yourself closely. Do not fall for anything. He is tricky and though he is not the real devil he is close. He does not want you as he wants girls like the little one there. No, he wants you as his mate, and he will do anything, anything to make that happen. Be safe Lady, and beware the blue water.”

“The blue water? What is the blue water? But as her light dimmed I began to awaken. I abruptly sat up. A dream? It had been real, I know it to be real. It was a warning, oh Nessie you still watch out for me. I heard the raven at the window, and I could hear her thoughts. God is here, I am here. And I sat there awaiting my fate. He had said two days, but it had not been two days. I was not prepared. “Yes, Lady, you are.”

“Have no fear my warrior. Believe.”

Chapter 15

Diablo took a deep breath, trying to calm his temper. He had not wanted to hurt her. Anyone else he did not mind, but her, he had actually wanted to apologize. The flowers and candy still lay in the floor where she threw them. He never bothered to pick them up, he just went over and gave them a swift kick.

The raven outside his window was beginning to annoy him. He went to his desk and opened his drawer pulling a pistol. His specialty was fists and knives. He loved to slice piece by piece. He loved watching the final deaths twitches, and he loved feeding people to the creatures.

But sometimes the pistol was neccasary like now. He could not reach the raven, therefore he would shoot it. So now the darn thing was gone. He hated birds, he hated most everything.

He had used his pistol the day the evening he saw her. Usually his men shot to scare the people and bring forward the creatures, but when he saw her husband holding her he lost his cool. He enjoyed shooting him and leaving him for the creatures. He had no doubt that her man , no not her man; he was her man now. The other was dead and she needed to know that so she could now come to him. He would take her. She would be his.He would make her forget her husband.

He paced back and forth, his cowboy boots striking loudly upon the floor. The more he walked the louder he stomped. It came too him then. There were several methods he could use to get her to comply. He rubbed his fingers through his hair, and saw the red dress still laying on the bed. He jerked it up and ripped it to shreds. She had been right, red was not her color.

He must find a forest green dress to match her green eyes, and a hairbrush so he could brush her long hair. It was so beautiful, shiny, but black as the ravens wings he wished to kill. Yes. That would be the way to her heart. Cleanliness. She was not like the others that wallowed in their own filth.

There were pieces of her ripped shirt in the floor, and he remembered her form. He remembered everything about her. Maybe he should give her a shirt as a sign of good faith, while he had his men search for appropriate clothing for a Lady.

He went to the window and watched his men. They got such enjoyment watching the women run. They took ropes and lassoed them pulling them back. Screams excited all of them.

And then it came to him. She would fight him there was no doubt, but there was one way he could gain her. It would be by force, but that is how bad he wanted her. He was not above using any method he could. He had even went back for her husbands head to prove death had taken him, but there was nothing left.

“Jake, get in here,” “Yea boss watcha need?” “You go tell that scientist fellow that I need some more of the drug.” “How much boss?” A bottle full. Jake rushed out the door and it was not too long before Jake returned. He handed the bottle to his boss, and Diablo motioned for him to leave. He held the bottle up and watched the blue liquid swirl around. 

This blue bottle contained a drug so powerful you could bend people to your will. That is how he used the people as bait, that is how he drew them out with a big barrel of this stuff. He would give this to the lady, but not too much. He did not like the blisters that would mar her skin, but they would disappear in a day or two. It would not be long before she would be under his power and would remember nothing but him. 

Blue liquid in hand he whistled a jaunty tune as he climbed down, down, and farther down. 

“Soon Lady you will be mine, and you will never escape.” Insane laughter echoed after him. He could not wait.

Chapter 16

I was prepared, yet not prepared. As he opened the door I expected the same attitude before he had brought me down here. He really did have a beautiful smile, but his eyes gave his evil intent away.

In his hand was a bottle, and in it a blue liquid. i remembered in my dream what Nessie had said. She had warned me about the blue liquid. It looked like an old twenty ounce pepsi bottle and the liquid looked like kool aid, and that is perhaps why every one drank of it. It did not look deadly.

“I thought you could do with a drink lady. He did not acknowledge the girl. It was if she was not even there. I came to where I stood, and placed the bottle in my hand. I still stood, staring at his eyes. I knew as long as I did that everything would be okay, but still I would not drink.

The little girl grabbed the drink from me and ran to a corner drinking as she went. I tried to grab her, tried to grab the bottle from her, but she had drank so much. He grabbed the bottle from her and backhanded her across the face, then he grabbed me and tried to force the remainder of the liquid down my throat.

I fought and fought hard. I would not give in. I finally took the bottle from him and dashed the contents in his face. I think most of it went in his eyes. He gave a scream of... well not sure if it was agony, or rage or both.

Bottle still in hand, I forced the few droplets that were left down his throat. He went to his knees, both hands on his throat and fear in his eyes. He could not breath. I could see the sores breaking out upon him. He was dying, his skin turning a bluish color.

The girl. I ran to her side but it was too late for her. She lay back against the wall, sightless eyes staring straight ahead. Death had taken her and her baby. I cried, oh how I cried. Such a loss of life, such a waste. I searched for breath, but no, she was indeed dead. “Sleep well little one.God and Nessie will take care of you. You are at peace now.” I did not wish to leave her there, but I had not the time to take her with me.

I picked up her lifeless body and laid her upon the bed. Perhaps Hero and I would be blessed with a daughter someday. God had a reason for taking her, and I know she is better off with Him, than in this evil world.

Diablo was gasping for air now, and the sores were even covering his face. I barely heard an audible, “The doctor , you killed me. Was not meant....”He did not, could not finish his sentence. Death had come for him and taken him away.

I prayed that God would grant him mercy, and I prayed for his soul.

The door was open a crack and I peeked out. He had been so sure of himself he had left no guards. I must find some weapons before his death was discovered. Now if I could remember the room he had me in, I am sure I would find some there. I am sure that was his room, and as much as I hated that red dress it would have to do until I found an appropriate shirt. 

It was slow going for me. I was jumping at shadows and praying that I would not run into any of his men. Finally I made it too his room and a little old man stood at the window, and the raven had landed on the outside.

He turned to me with a smile,“Good you finally made it. I have been waiting on you.”

Psalm 97.10 “Let those who love the LORD hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked”

Chapter 17

Perhaps I was missing something here.Was he my helper? He must be for raven still sat on the outside of the windowsill, watching, waiting. “Hello Lady. I am Dr. Grand. Well I am not a doctor like a medical doctor, but a scientist. 

“You killed all those people, and tried to kill me as well.”  “Nonsense Lady. I did not kill those people. The dosage was weak and though I made it I did not know what he was using it for. I was a captive for many days. Starved and beaten....” He pulled his sleeve up and showed me many scars. He also had scars upon his face like would be made from a sharp instrument. “The bottle I fixed for you, well I knew you would not drink. I had a dream that he would be the one to succumb, and that would be my chance to free my daughter, and the others from this nightmare.”

“Your daughter? He held your daughter captive as well.” “Yes. That is why I did what I did. I wanted to keep her safe, and he said if I helped him she would be well. He kept her in the basement. Enough talk, we must rescue her and the others. Most of the evil ones sleep during the day.”

“Now I assume he put you with my daughter. Oh my apologies Lady, please put this on.” He threw me a white shirt that he had been holding for quite a while. He looked agitated and kept fiddling with his wire rimmed glasses. I put it to the fear he had, and the anxious reunion with his daughter.

“Doctor, if your daughter is the one in the basement where he held me....” How could I tell him. Maybe it was not her, maybe he had put her with the others. But no, I knew it was her. “What Lady? What is it. Something is wrong with her?” “She is dead, sir.” I was not going to tell him how she died, he could figure that one out on his own. I mean really, how could I tell him that he killed her with that concoction he made. But how was he to know she would drink it too, and he had not even been sure we were together.” 

He fell to his knees and I watched as his tears started silently, then they picked up pace and before long his sobs could be heard through out the room. I felt more it ease since my top half had been covered and went to the window. The raven and I stared into each others eyes then she flew away. 

I knew what I must do. The women were in this hotel somewhere. I was not sure what condition they were in or if they had been kept drugged, all I knew is that I must save as many as I could. I am not sure how many men Diablo had, or how they would react to his death. “Doctor, we have no time to mourn. She was a sweet girl, but we must get out of here, and take the others with us.”

“I need my weapons, we need supplies, we need to move, and we need to move now. later will be the time to mourn.” “Yes, yes of course you are right. I do not know where your weapons are, but I do know he has an assortment of knives in his drawer over there.”

I rummaged around and he did have many knives of various sizes and shapes, from Bowie knives to small pocket knives. I almost exclaimed in delight. My machete was there. I carried it so long it had become a part of me. Now I had it back.I needed my bow too, but I had no idea where it was. It was good for long range silence, where as my machete was for close, hand to hand combat.

My stomach growled. The chocolates were still scattered upon the floor but the doctor shook his head no. Ah so they were drugged too. Glad I had went with my gut instinct at the time. I went to the closet and opened the door. I inhaled deeply. There hanging neatly was a beautiful forest green dress. It was not gaudy like the red dress, it was a dress fit for a lady. I sighed. There was no time for fantasy’s. I tried to push the thought of Hero seeing me in that aside. It was impossible. We could only take the necessary.

On the top shelf was my bow. It had not been there before. he must have brought it in after he had moved me. Though I was hungry and thirsty, I was clothed, had my weapons, and felt more like me.

I fell to my knees and thanked God for the blessings He had bestowed upon me and the freedom from Diablo. I asked for His help and guidance rescuing the others.

I stood and took a deep breath before I walked through the door. I did not wait to see if the doctor followed or not. 

I was on a mission. I was ready to complete this task and get back home to Hero. I was ready. It was time.

Chapter 18

“I need to see my daughter. I mean I really want to make sure it was her.” The doctor had let out a sniffle every now and then and wiped tears from his eyes. I understood. He could not just take my word for it. He needed to be sure. One last look at his little one or he would never find peace.

“Okay, but we must make it quick. I am not sure how long we have before he is found. An alarm will go up, and I am not sure how many men he has. I wish to find the captives and escape this place.” I took him down to the basement, but no matter what Iwould not go back inside that cell, I did not even wish to look inside.

It was only a moment before I heard his cry. “It was I that killed her. I killed my baby.” I really wanted to give him a huge hug, but there was not time. I knew he suffered, who would not. He killed his own child, it was not intentional, and really not by his hand, but he provided the way.He was sitting on the edge of the bed holding her in his arms, and I was begging him to come. “Look I am sorry we can not bury her, there is no time. Please you must come now.” I finally got through to him. He rose from the bed, and gave Diablo a swift kick in the ribs. He did not feel it, for he had been dead for awhile, but I think it made the doctor feel better.

We started back up the rickety staircase and I heard commotion upstairs. They were rushing down the stairs. We backtracked and headed in the opposite direction from the cell. There were three more cells down there, then a hallway. I chose the left path. I stopped just out of sight. I eased my head around the corner from where we had come. I needed to look in those cells but they would have to wait.

“He is dead, Jake, the boss is dead. She done killed him and the girl, and escaped.” “Quite, Sam. She could not have gotten far. You go down the hall and see if you can spot her. I will go back upstairs and see if she is up there.”

“Well Jake what are we gonna do if we can not find her? She will release the prisoners and then what will we do? I don’t know Sam, I just don’t know. I spect we will call the army out, an warn all our people we have an escaped prisoner. And Sam, with the boss dead, we do not need her. Shoot to kill.

I could see the one called Sam headed in our direction, and the one called Jake headed back up the stairs. So at the moment I only had one to deal with. I decided to stay where I was and when he rounded the corner, I grabbed him and gave him a blow to the side of the head. It was not enough to kill him, but enough to knock him out.

Lucky for us he had keys to the cells and we opened the one closet to our position. There were only two women in there. They looked reasonably healthy, and they were indeed ready to get out of there. We took Sam in there and positioned him where you could not look in and see him, but you had to go in.

I sent the ladies and the doctor around the corner to await my return. I opened the next cell and there were five ladies. They were making a lot of racket, crying and thanking me, and then fearing death if they were caught. “If you do not be quite, I will put you back in there and leave you. You will get us all killed and I have no intentions of going back in a cell or ending up dead. Now if you want to live, do as I say.

They quitened down after that, and I sent them around the corner as well. I could hear someone on the stairway. They were coming fast. I ran around the corner and realized I had left the cell opened. He had rushed in the cell and as quickly as I could I ran and slammed the door behind him.

The two biggest threats that I knew of were trapped. Quickly I checked the last remaining cell. There were three boys and two men. I wondered about the reasons for the boys being held then I remembered over hearing something about raising the boys for the army. I was still unsure of how many were in this army.

The boys tried to run past me but I grabbed the first one by his shirt collar and the others ran into him. “Settle down. Do you want to get us killed? Now go down the hall and to the left. there is a group of people waiting.” They joined the others and walked backwards slowly. i did not want anyone sneaking up on me. Jake was cursing, and kicking the door and I wished I had gagged and tied him, but it was too late now. We must leave.

“Doctor do you have any idea where this leads?” “No Lady. I have no idea.” “I do.” It was a little dirty faced boy with big wide eyes and a toothless smile. He did not look to be five, maybe six. 

“Well young man, would you mind telling me?” “It leads to the catacombs. Lots of tunnels and one big maze.” “And just how do you know this?” “Well me and my brother used to come this way to check on our sister. We lived in the cave near the water. We got caught. My brother Jimmy , he’s eleven, they put him in the army, and put me in a cell. Don’t know what happened to my sister.”

“Do the creatures live in there too?” She was around sixteen maybe. She was really scared and had a shrill voice when she spoke. “Yep, but I know how to avoid them. Well unless they have over run since I have been in here.”

“No, no. I will not go in there. We will die.” “What is your name, girl?” I was getting a little antsy. We needed to move and if that was the way, then that is the way we go. “I am Jolene.” She held her head up high like she was a queen or something. “Well Jolene, you are welcome to stay here. I haven’t the time to fool with you. Would you like a cell with Jake, or Sam.” Her eyes lit with fear, but as I said before I had no time to comfort any of them.

She looked at me not with anger as I expected but like a lost child. “Young man, what is your name?” “Cain, Lady,my name is Cain.” “Well Cain, do you know what lies in the other direction. “Nope, sure don’t.” “The doctor spoke up. I do. that is my lab. Lady, what if I brought some of the blue drug with us. It may work on the creatures as it does on humans.”

“Very good idea doctor, but we must act quickly. One of you men help the doctor please.” They had been silent , glazed eyes, and resigned to death. I thought a sparkle came into his eyes at that moment though. 

We sat in silence waiting on their return. Everyone having their own thoughts, their own fears, but all was not lost. I would keep going till I had no fight.

In a matter of minutes the doctor and the man, (Found out later his name was Henry)came back. To my surprise they had two gallon jugs with spray pumps, like pesticides used to come in, and three more smaller spray bottles. 

Now armed with my machete, bow, and a backpack, the others with blue drug spray, we were ready. I gave Cain the flashlight. I had no choice but to trust him. “Lead the way Cain.” He puffed up his shoulders at this important task. It was a very quite bunch that followed that brave little boy.

Chapter 19

The darkness carried no sound.each step, each breath brought brought us closer to the exit? Or was our journey taking us deeper into the underworld. The darkness was such that I had pulled out the other flashlight I held in reserve. It gave a touch more light, and I decided after seeing skulls, and scattered bones, perhaps we had no need of more light.

Silence had held for so long it took a moment for me to realize a scratching sound had begun. It was light at first, but after several moments it became more pronounced. I saw nothing to lend character to the noise, but as I said it was coming from a distance.

I sent the doctor up to walk with Cain, while I went back to the rear. So far no one was in a panic and I wished it to stay that way. From some where farther down, on another path I heard a terrified scream. The intake of breath from our group, was a little louder than I had hoped for. It would attract anything close by.

I stopped. The others continued to move. I heard something near by. We had come to far for something to destroy us now. Silence again. I traveled onward now, needed to catch the group; there I heard it again. 

There was a pitiful moan and it was closing in. My heard had a heavy thump, thump, thump, but I realized though I had no knowledge of the noisemaker, I did not think it was deadly. It would have probably attacked by now.

I felt something brush up against my foot and instinct called for me to kick out. I did and heard a pitiful yelp. I had trained the light even with my body, but now I searched the floor. A puppy. Oh it was adorable, and so tiny, it could fit in the palm of my hand. 

It was kind of skittish, well I did kind of kick it, but after a moment it did let me pick it up. I shined the light in a circle to make sure there was no other puppies or anything of that nature around. There was not. 

Now I needed to catch the others. The path split in three sections. I was not sure with path they had taken. I held the light to the ground and searched for footprints. It was at that moment I heard the screams. 

I did not turn left, nor right but ran straight ahead. I knew I was on the right path when the little puppy had a continuous low throat growl. I caught them and they had things under control. The doctor was right, the blue drug worked on them as it did us. 

There were three of them and they had fallen. Though they tried to get up they could not. Finally they gave up and lay where they fell. Sightless eyes staring at us. They were not dead, but they could do no more harm.

We started back up again, and I could see light a little ways up ahead. Even though the puppy was small I was having trouble holding my weapons and carrying it too. I was afraid to put it down, for fear someone would trip over it, or kick it as I had done.

I took my backpack off my back, and put the pup down in it. It stuck its head out the flap. We got closer and closer to the light and the puppy began to growl. I mean a ferocious growl for such a small thing.

I turned shining my light the way we had come. I think we made a big mistake. We should have made sure those creatures were dead, instead of just drugged. They were coming and fast. They had mutated. 

“Run,” They did not bother to look back, we all ran as fast as we could till we reached the light. At the last minute Cain led us away from the edge of the cavern, at the time I did not understand. So as we turned on the path to the left the creatures ran into the light. 

Gun fire. Then screams. I do not know if it was creature screams or human screams, but thanks to God and Cain, we had escaped the bullets and creatures for now.

Chapter 20

The flashlights were dimming and we had no extra batteries. I did have a lighter though, and if I could find a big enough stick I could make a torch. We had to do something we were packed so tightly together we were tripping.

Cain led us into a corner. there was no exit, just one entrance and three walls. Two skeletons, pieces of broken bone scattered about, and a couple of old rags. Cain sat down next to the skeleton and picked up a shin bone. He handed it to me and one of the old rags. I wrapped the rag around the bone and tied it. It would not last long as a torch, so I chose a few more and tore the rags in too. 

I got a weird feeling that Cain would not finish our journey, and I was correct. “You are almost at the end. Go straight through. There will be no more turns. The exit that we passed is the army quarters. They usually do not come in here, because of the creatures. But right now they are on high alert, because of your escape.”

Everyone was crowded into the little side room, jumping at every noise. I saw a glow around Cain as I lit one of the torches and I knew. Cain was home. The bones were his, and his brothers. His brother had been drafted in the army but he was escaping with Cain, and the creatures had found them God had sent Cain to help us through the worst part of our journey.

The others did not understand why I would leave Cain behind, or why he would wish it so, and I had no time to explain. I held him tightly thanking God for sending such a little angel to help us on our journey. My eyes filled with tears as he sat against the wall and shut his eyes. A soft mist invaded the room and Cain slowly began to fade away. In a matter of minutes it was as if he at never been.

The group asked a lot of hows, why’s, and when’s but there was no more time for questions and answers. I did not second guess fate. God would lead me on the right path. “Quite please. We need to get out of here, and I want to get out alive.” I lit the another torch and handed it to the doctor, the last torch I gave to Henry who brought up the rear.  The women now carried the blue stuff, and since they had experience with it I was sure they would be careful with it. I think the puppy felt safe in my backpack. I could feel him wiggle around in there, but he was silent. 

We were all set to move again. I think we were all ready to get out of the darkness.It was a quite group that slowly walked through the darkened cavern. Every now and then I could hear the echo of a long, shrill, screech, or gun fire, but it was not close. 

My feet were aching, my legs were tired, and I was starving. When was the last time I had eaten. I could not remember. Everything was automatic anymore. Step, step, step, another, and another, and another. I should be.....I do not know, what should I be doing?

I blocked everything out except the need for escape, the need to leave the darkness and enter the light. I wanted so badly to go home, to feel Hero’s arms around me, to cry and know that he would comfort me. 

God was there with me, and he heard my cries. perhaps I can not go home yet, and be with Hero, but I could see the light, but it was not sun light it was moon light. It did not matter though, we were about to exit the cave. 

I stopped, peeking around the edge making sure there were no enemies lurking about, and stepped out into the fresh air. My mind was beginning to clear and I contemplated our next move. It took me a minute but I realized I smelled smoke, not just any smoke, but a campfire. My stomach growled again as I realized that same campfire had food cooking.

I followed the smell with the others right behind me. We were back in the city but far away from the hotel we were in. I think we were in a carnival/ food area.  I put my torch out and Henry did the same. Even though it was night there was a full moon. 

The puppy must have smelled the food cooking because he began to let out little yelps. There it was a man, and woman, with several children cooking over a fire. I motioned for everyone to stop. We were hid behind a rock wall, the only wall standing in that area. 

I thought it would be best to check things out before we went in, and it was a good thing. No, we did not want what they were eating. Lying in a pool of blood, near the fire was a man. The meat had been chopped off both his legs. I gagged, and I do not think I was the only one.

On silent feet we back tracked for a little ways and headed north instead. There stood what was left of a  BP service station. I turned to the group and held my finger to my lips though I did not see the need. they knew by now that silence was the best defense for now.

We made it inside, and started grabbing potted meat, spam, anything in cans, bottles of water, hot Pepsi’s, anything drinkable. Henry and the doctor put down the blue liquid, and tore into a can of spam. the rest pigged out on whatever they came to first. I had to smile. I took the puppy out of my pack and gave him a can of sardines, while I had a pack of crackers dipping them in peanut butter.

I put the puppy on my lap after he finished eating. He lay there contented and I eased my eyes shut. I had to rest if only for a moment. I knew the puppy would let me know if anything came upon us.I said my prayers, and felt God’s presence. I knew we would be safe for a while.

Chapter 21

I was brought back to reality by the puppy licking my face. The sun was rising and the heat was building. I woke everyone. They needed a destination, a place of safety because I needed to go back to the motel to rescue the others. I know there were more, many more. 

I do not know where to go, or what is left to go too. Jolene had been doing a steady stream of silent crying. She was a far cry from the “queen” she pretended to be from the start. “I do not know where my family is. I have no where to go.” Everyone chimed in with the same thing. I could not take them back with me, yet I feared their safety if I left them alone. I did not know how long I would be gone.

I had no plans to go back in the darkness, but I knew the evil ones followers would be looking for me. I needed to get in and out quickly, and I could not do that with seven women, two boys and two men. I did not count the doctor. I wish he could go with me but that is a big no. he was needed alive.

He knew the cure for the blue liquid, and the disease that made the blisters, and being a scientist he was a most valuable person. “We need to find y’all a safe place till I return. Does anyone have a clue, as to a place where no one would look?” They all shrugged their shoulders. 

I stood and walked to the door of the station. It would not be safe here for long. there were only two walls and no roof. I peeked out the door. The best thing would be to go to the caves upon the shore. If we could make it to the cave hero and I stayed in they would be safe till I returned, but I had no idea how do get there.

The puppy was on my heels whining, trying to climb me like a ladder. I picked him up and stroked him, thinking, planning. And there she came, my guardian angel, the raven.  I sat the puppy down and the raven landed on my arm. Looking into her eyes I knew we would be safe. She would lead the way.

“Everyone grab a bag. Fill it full of canned food, water flashlights, batteries, anything of use. Only take what you can carry comfortably. We may have to move quickly. Make sure you will be able to run.” I also filled my backpack. “Lets go.”  One of the other women, I think I heard her called Sadie, had a very shrill voice. “Where are we going.” 

“We are going to the caves upon the beach. you will be safer there than anywhere.” I looked both ways and there was no one around. Farther down the road the campfire was out and the people were gone. The body was still there, but there was not much left. There were bugs and various birds picking at it. I looked away. I really did not want to see it.

There was no people, creatures or anything out. Did they sleep during the day? Well until I was sure we would proceed with caution. The puppy was at my heels, but he was so little he was having a hard time keeping up, so I picked him up, and put him back in my backpack. He seemed to like it pretty well in there. Meanwhile Sadie was grumbling about going into the caves, and she was getting all the other women upset over it. I listened and listened till I had enough.

I stopped and they stopped. I turned facing the crowd. “Who does not want to go in the caves? Out of seven women six did not want to go. To my surprise Jolene was the only one willing to go.  I started back and they started.This time when I stopped I let them know what I thought. “The women stay here, all but Jolene. Jolene, you, and the men follow me.” We started walking again and I heard, “Hey what about us.” We kept walking, eventually they caught up. I never heard another word about going into the caves. I was not perfect, I had to make some tough decisions, but I could be trusted to do what was right. 

The heat was draining our energy so we stopped in the shade of a rocky ledge for a few minutes rest. Everyone was quite, the puppy was asleep, and raven was perched beside me. All too soon it was time to go. 

I wanted to be in the cave and settled by dark. I wanted to be on the move after darkness fell. I know it would be dangerous, but I could move quicker. The sun tended to slow us down, as I was beginning to find out.

It was so quite, nothing, no one. No children, laughing, no work going on, no cooking, and I realized I was homesick. I had tried to keep Hero from my thoughts. I could not afford to be distracted, but his face come through at the oddest moments, and now was one of them. 

I felt the tears slipping, and the pain made my heart hurt. I heard music playing, and we were dancing on our wedding night. I could taste the salt from my tears, and the sting in my eyes, then I was aware of the screams.

It was none of ours, but they were not far away either.The last scream was a death scream. I was too late to help her, but perhaps if there was more I might make it in time. 

There was a wall of loose rock to the left and I motioned everyone back there. I gave the puppy to Jolene to hold. I could see him fighting to get away but he was too little to go in a battle at the moment. I did not wish death on him.

The building had fallen down, only one wall remained. I could see the struggle. Three young boys in camo had two young girls pinned against the wall. What were they doing? Oh no, I was not about to let them do that. I ran and before they knew what hit them I tripped the one boy and hit one. The other turned, aiming a pistol at me and I shot him through the hand with an arrow. 

I hated too, I did not want too, but I had no desire to be shot either. I pulled the two boys up by their shirt collars. they were so young, maybe twelve, thirteen, somewhere in there. The boy with the arrow through his hand was crying and screaming. I felt for him, I really did. I know he was in pain, but there was no way in the world I was going to let them give those girls the blue liquid, and take them prisoner. 

They were old enough to know better. I led them over to the group. “Doc, see if you can patch him up, and keep an eye on these two.” I went back for the girls. 

I was right. It was too late for the girl that screamed. She was dead. It looked like she had put up a fight. The other two were really frightened. I held them in my arms, but not for long. We needed to move.

The group was as ready as I was. 

Chapter 22

As the sun began to turn in the night sky we reached the cave. I had wanted to reach it earlier but things had not worked out that way. Many obstacles had been thrown in our path, but that was God’s way of telling us not yet.

After we rescued the two girls, and captured the three boys, I thought all would be well. It was not. There was a lot of dissension with the girls wishing to kill the young men that held them.I held my tongue as long as I could, but they were causing the group to choose sides. I would have none of that. We had to work as a team or we would not make it.

“Enough. I have had quite enough of this drama. If you wish to continue with me you will all calm down now, or I leave you behind. After I rescue these other women I will be going home. Yes, home.” I proceeded to tell them of New Beginning, and the great life we had there, but I also told them we were at peace. “I will take no trouble back with me, so if you can not get along then you stay behind.”

I had not stopped walking, and that speech along with the heat had about taken my breath away. I stopped for a drink, and gave the puppy some as well. I put her down so she could take care of her business. the others stopped as well. They were silent. I heard no smart comments, or a she started it kind of thing, they were just quite. It was just as well, I was so tired of drama.

A little farther and we come upon some more of the child army. There were three and held a gun on us, demanding we let there three go, and come with them quietly. The one had had shot with the arrow spoke up, “Dude, put your gun down and come with us. She has a safe place.”

“Yea well what happened to your hand Lee?” “She shot me with an arrow. She was defending herself, and her people. These are good people, Zack. Come with us.”

“Are y’all crazy, Diablo will have our heads. Besides he is good to us.” “How is he good to us? Training us to kill? Zack we are kids. I am not ready to grow up yet, and I really do not want to kill people unless it is to defend myself.”

I did not have the time for this discussion.  “Zack, either use that gun, or put it aside. I have work to do. I have no time for games. “Is what he says true Lady? Is there such a place?” 

“Yes it is my home. We have houses, animals, water, it is a good place, with good people. In case you did not know Diablo is dead. You do not have to work for him anymore. Now I am going, so either shoot me or come along.” I knew they did not want to shoot, so now we had another three added to our group. I picked the puppy up and put it back in the back pack, and we went on our way.

We had an extra three, and they had guns, as well as the previous three. We would have to share food and water, but even so God would provide if we needed more. 

We had reached the beach and I tried to avoid eye contact. I had noticed earlier, Zack had come up beside me trying to keep pace. he looked from side to side as if he was on look out. Bless his heart he was trying to protect the group. He was blocking my view of the ocean. “Is it true lady? Is it true that Diablo is dead?”

“Yes Zack, he is indeed dead. Sam and Jake are locked up, unless someone has released them.” I heard his stomach growl. I pointed to the top of the cliff and I said,”There is a cave up there. That is our stopping point. Y’all will be safe there, but we must hurry. The creatures will come soon.” He nodded his head. He understood.

The cliff loomed before us, and we all began to climb. There was a lot of grumbling, a lot of cuts, scrapes, and bruises. I felt for the women and girls for the shoes they wore were not adept for climbing, and I am really not sure how they even walked in them.Fancy shoes, with a heel, it was a small heel, but a heel, none the less. The men and boys had combat boots on. Some had holes, ragged and worn, but they worked.

“Go, go, go,” I yelled. The sun was turning, the darkness approaching, and the creatures were on the move. I saw one sniff the air and look in our direction, then the others did the same. A high pitched screech started by one, picked up by the others, echoed loudly. Our group climbed faster and faster, finally reaching the top.

I checked the cave to make sure there was nothing lurking inside, then sent them all in. The creatures could climb. They slid down a lot, but they were using each other to climb their way up.

“Hey Doctor, how much blue liquid is left?” “Less than half a gallon, why?” “Hand it to me.” I took the blue liquid and began to spray the closest ones. As they began to fall, they knocked the others to the sand also. They all landed with a thud, and by the time they rose, the blue liquid had taken effect. their sense of smell was gone. They had no idea that we even existed   anymore.

We pooled our food together and ate silently. The raven flew in and Zack rose his gun. I was quicker with my machete to his throat. “Do not even think about it. The raven is my friend, and my guide. She means no harm, and she will not be harmed, understand.” I  put my machete back in its sheath, and he sat down his gun.

I did not want to hurt a child, but I was not going to let a child hurt me my friends. I let the puppy out to eat, and it ran awhile stretching its legs. We would sleep while the raven and the puppy stood guard, but my sleep would be light and quick.

I dreamed of Hero, and wished I could feel his arms around me, and I did, even though it was in my dreams. It was enough to know he still lived.

I looked around at the sleeping group, all but Zack who had awaken. “Where are you going Lady?” He rose as if to tag along with me.

“Stand guard, Zack. I am entrusting you to keep them safe. Can you do that?”

“Yes Lady, but what of you?”  “I will be okay. I will return and we will travel to my home. If I am not back before the sun turns in the evening tomorrow, lead them to my home. The raven will show you the way.”

“But lady....” “No, but’s Zack. You are a brave young man, and this is a grown up task, I know. I am sorry I have to ask this of you, but once you get there, everything will be alright.”

He rushed to me and I hugged him. I know he tried not to cry but I did not care if he cried. He was only a child thrown into a grown up world. “Come Zack, pray with me.” I do not know if he had ever prayed before, but I do know when he rose he had a new confidence, and a new outlook. 

I kissed him on the cheek, and held the puppy . His eyes looked sad, but it could not go with me. I blew a kiss to the group, and walked to the door of the cave looking both left and right.

I started out and someone jumped me from behind a huge boulder, covering my mouth with his hand. 

I was being held tightly and could not scream.

Chapter 23

Only one person could have the silence and skill to sneak up on me, but he was suffering a gunshot wound. It was him though. I could smell him,breathe him in. He turned me and we held each other for several minutes. We did not talk, there was no need to. Our hearts as one always reached out to each other.

“Why are you here, hero? You should be resting?”  I could see the love in his eyes, well right before he was hit from behind by Zack. He fell to the ground, but I saved him from hitting his head. “You okay lady. he did not hurt you did he?”

“Help me get him up Zack. We need to get him inside.” He grimaced. “I would rather shoot him and get it over with. He does not look like he would be a willing prisoner. In fact he will always be trying to escape.”

Hero was coming too and Zack raised his gun. “You lower your weapon Zack. he will not be our prisoner. He is my husband, and he has come to help.” Fear came into his eyes, real fear."I....I....I am sorry Lady. Please , I did not mean to hurt him.” I looked at him, closely. What have they done to these boys? What kind of scare tactics have they used?

“Zack,” I grabbed his shoulders and made him look at me.”Zack it is okay. You were protecting me. That is a good thing. I will not hold that against you. It was a good thing you done, just the wrong person. Now help me get him inside.”

Hero was coming too as we were getting him up. Hero looked at Zack, “A boy? It was a boy that laid me low? Laughter started, and it put Zack at ease. With an arm over my shoulder, and one over Zack’s shoulder, we led him into the cave.

We sat him down, and I sat beside him. I did not want the group waking yet, so we were trying to maintain quite. “Now my Hero, why are you here? You are still healing.”

“Lady, I am here to help. I feared for your safety, and I have missed you.I could not let you be here alone.I love you Lady.”

I put my head on his shoulder and the puppy climbed in my lap. She was growling at this stranger that had his arms around me. Zack looked lost. he was trying to look anywhere but at the stranger he hit. “Hero, this is Zack, Zack, this is my husband Hero.” Hero held his hand out and Zack took it. “Thank you Zack for watching my lady. I can see you have done a fine job.”

Zack beamed with pride, “Thank you sir, but I....” I shook my head no, warning him that nothing more need be said. The past was over, we were all at the point of a new beginning.

“I must go. I need to be there before the moon turns to sun.” I put the puppy down and rose, Hero rose as well. “No Hero, I must do this alone.” “Sorry Lady, but I came to help you and I will. We have been apart for too long.”

“Well then, when they awaken you can help Zack lead them....” Hero would not let me finish, “Lady, I travel with you. It was a flesh wound. I am fine. Now, Johnny is waiting in the wagon, and he is prepared to take them back to New Beginnings.”

I wrapped my arms tightly around Hero, “As you wish, my husband, I just do not wish to see you hurt.” Hero and Johnny had developed a secret whistle, and it was not too long before Johnny had come and helped us wake the others. He spent a little too much time over one of the new girls, but after all they were both young, and I am sure never had a boyfriend/girlfriend.

“Go with Johnny. He has a wagon to take you to my home.” The excitement had started but we let them know they still must be quite. Zack held the puppy. It whined for me, but I knew it must go for its safety.

I stopped the doctor. “Johnny, this is Doctor Grand. Actually he is a scientist. You and Tom both can learn a lot from him.” Johnny and the Doctor shook hands, then Johnny came to me and hugged me. “Lady Hero is okay, and you need him. You two are a team. Be careful, please.”

“I will Johnny. Now y’all be safe. These boys were in the army. They will be good protection, and help along the way, especially Zack.”  

I was receiving hugs from everyone, and a lot of be carefuls. I think they were grateful to be leaving this place. 

Johnny and the doctor were the last ones out. Their conversation was deep, and even though he held an interest in the doctor, his eyes followed the young girl he was eyeing before.

They were loaded and on their way, and hand in hand Hero and I went in the opposite direction.                

Chapter 24

I wondered of my choice traveling at night, there were many dangers out. A platoon, I guess you would call them, marched past as we hid behind a group of boulders. They were so young, never having a chance at a childhood. the guns were almost as big as the boys were.

I could feel tears and I brushed them away. I had a soft spot for children and animals, and the idea of watching them play always brought a smile to my lips. I knew what I was doing. I knew my purpose. After I freed the women, I was going to free these young soldiers.

They had moved on and Hero, motioned me forward. I knew the way. I had been there, except for we had come in the other way, and I left through the catacoombs. I smiled. The raven was gliding through the air, and I knew we had to follow her

We made it to the hotel, and at my suggestion we went to the basement first. I wanted to check out the doctors lab, and also see if Sam and Jake were still held prisoner. They were, and that was a good thing. 

It would be so much easier to find the location of the women, from them, and they would talk. I would see to that. I also needed to know how to call the troops in. they were to be released from the hold that Diablo had on them.

Did they even know he was dead? How many would stay if they knew of his death? I would bet not many. I was thinking the majority of these boys had been drafted. They had no choice in the matter, and I prayed I would not have to hurt any of them.

“Hey, who is out there?” You better let me out or Diablo will kill you.” Jake was not very bright. I had not thought so from the first. Jake knew Diablo was dead so he was trying to trick someone. Did he not realize that if Diablo was alive he would kill him for letting me escape, and getting himself in such a predicament.

We walked by and he screamed and shouted, and cursed, then he begged.He still had no idea who was walking past his door. We came to the end of the hall, and I knew the lab was too the right. I looked to the left though, and there stood Cain. 

He was translucent, in his ghostly form, and I blew him a kiss. “Thank you Cain, but we will not be going that way. Rest in peace, little man. He faded away back into the darkness of his underground grave.Tears were in my eyes and hero put his arms around me. He did not know of Cain, but he would. I would tell him someday when we were sharing a seat on a beautiful day, but not now.

I had not seen the inside of the doctors lab before. It was huge, and so much equipment. He could have made any number of cures, medicines, many things that could help mankind, yet he chose to destroy lives. No that is not true, the choice had been made for him, and he still lost the one he loved.

I filled two, one gallon jugs full of blue liquid. Hero had not said a word, but I know his mind was questioning my movements. I just looked at him and smiled. He would know soon enough.

Sam had caught up with Jakes screams now, and I think he would be the easiest to make talk. I had found some needles, (I hated these things) and I thought they might come in handy. I unlocked Sam’s cell, and was prepared for a rush, but it did not happen. But I could tell he was not happy to see me.

“Hello Sam, I came for some information.” I ain’t a telling you nothing.” He sat on the floor against the wall, head held high.

“Okay Sam, suit yourself, just know everyone is gone but you and Jake, and I will lock this door back.”

“I said I ain’t a telling nothing.” “Very well, then. If you would rather starve, or thirst to death than talk to me, so be it.”

I had my hand on the door ready to exit when he shouted, “No, no, please do not leave me here. I will talk, but my throat is dry.” I gave him a bottle of hot water and a pack of crackers. He tore into the crackers, like a starving man. I tried to caution him about drinking the water so quick, but he did not listen.

He wanted more, but until I got the Information I needed he got nothing more from me. The ladies were held on the third floor . At last count there were twenty, and of the twenty, five were pregnant. 

There were ten men being held in one of the rooms. They called them the breeders. So they were all familiar with each other. 

Hero looked at me questioningly when I by passed the third floor and went to the top. I eased open the room I had been held in and everything was just as it was, except the green dress was missing. I sighed heavily. Oh well when would I ever get a chance to wear it?

That was not my purpose in coming here anyway. I came for the rest of the knives. hero’s eyes lit when he saw the collection spread before him. He chose a bowie, which had a sheath, and hooked it on his belt. The rest I rolled back up in the big leather case, and put it in Hero’s back pack.

We looked around for anything else that would be helpful, and there was nothing else. The red dress was still spread out upon the bed and I ripped it to shreds. Now that really gave me release. I felt peace. Hero did not push, he knew the story would be told later. That was another reason this man held my heart, he had such patience. 

Now on to rescue the captives. A feeling of urgency came over me. “We must go, now.” I ran and Hero did not question just picked up his pace as well.

At the third floor we banged on door after door to find the right room, finally we found one. The keys from the basement did not work on these doors. Hero grabbed the fire ax from the wall and started breaking down doors. As he broke in the doors I gathered everyone and quickly explained we were escaping. They had to keep up, no grumbling, or they would be left behind.

I saw there heels, and shook my head. It was too late to do anything about it, but as they were running down the stairs I saw several throwing their shoes. Better to be bare foot than kill their selves. 

We ran from the hotel. there was a big hill in the distance. It was not a mountain, but that is where I was told to take them. “Y’all see that hill over there, quickly. You have to get to the top and soon.” I did not know why I just knew we did. 

I ran towards the beach as they ran to the hill, and Hero would not go without me. I did not have time to argue, and did not want to any way. I always felt safer with him by my side.

The whistle I held in my pocket was to call the army in from patrol. I surely hoped it worked because I had no wish to see so many young deaths.

Upon the beach I blew the whistle as hard as I could. Silence. I had got their attention, and again. this time I could see them in the dark making their way to me. Then I heard the screams. It had called the creatures as well.

“Run, run,” I was yelling at the young army. “To the hill quickly.” I thought the urgency was because of the creatures, but I was wrong. “Go, go, you have no time to fight.” Several of them looked back, and that was all it took. 

They were moving very fast. I felt sorry for Jake. I left Sam’s cell open, so I am sure he got away. Did he let Jake out? I do not know. I hope so. But will they escape?

The captives were almost upon the hill now, and the young army were now in front of Hero and I. 

I looked back and the ocean was taking over the land. massive waves were coming towards us, then washing back out to sea, taking anything in its path with it. Closer and closer the waves came, I could feel the salty water, spraying my eyes. The caves were underwater, the hotel was underwater, the BP station , the place I rescued the girls, all was underwater. 

And it was still coming.

Chapter 25

It was amazing but frightening. god had held the waves back long enough for us to climb the hill. The moon was giving way to the sun and the sparkle of the water was beautiful. All the trash, the old, the creatures, were being swept far away. There was nothing but water for miles in either direction.

I could taste the salty spray upon my lips, and could feel the warmth of life. 

Slowly the water was receding, and then the ocean’s waves were back where they had been before. Beautiful, but deadly.

The captives were silent, thankful they were alive, and they had listened. As I had told them, they had no need to thank me. It was God they needed to thank. God created the heavens and earth. God created man. Man destroyed man. 

Now it was time to recreate. Maybe this time we can do it right. Maybe this time, we can love one another and have peace.

He took my hand and squeezed it. I was so blessed to have him by my side. This was not just my journey anymore, it was our journey. We sat there a few more minutes watching the sun rise farther up into the sky. I lay my head upon his shoulder and thanked God for such beauty.

Soon idle chatter started. The captives were getting to know one another. I mean really getting to know each other. It was not the hello, how are you, now lets make a baby. It was a real interest.

Hero stood and helped me to my feet. Coming off the hill was easier than going up. I could hear their laughter and chatter. Freedom. Was it freedom from captivity, freedom from a restricted life, or did they find God and find the freedom of His love.

It was amazing the difference a day made. We were at the bottom of the hill sloshing in water, but it was drying quickly. I saw no signs of death, or no destruction. We had the freedom to walk around without being shot at, or worry about the creatures. Speaking of which, I no longer needed the blue liquid, nor the needles that I had confiscated.

The needles were no longer in my pocket and I could not find the jug of blue liquid. How could I have lost a gallon jug? Well it was of no importance now. God must have taken it from me. It was okay, it was no longer needed.

I watched as people came from everywhere. We were not the only survivors. By God’s good grace others had made it. There was Sam and Jake. They had a different look about them. They were walking, talking, and pointing in various directions.

Jake picked up a piece of wood, and another, and another, placing them in a pile. Sam did likewise. They were cleaning the area. Soon the young army began to help, then the women.

They had found their places, they were making a home, they were settling.

Chapter 26

The hotel made a great place for everyone to stay until houses were built. Some wanted to go back to New Beginnings with Hero and I, but most wanted to stay here, and rebuild. Their lives would not be the same as before and that was a good thing. They were all working together as a team.

Their was some food in the hotel, cans of beans, potted meat, tuna, and some crackers. The pregnant women went about finding plates, and eating utensils, and fixed enough for everyone. So that was lunch. Supper would come later.

I left Hero to eat and rest. He was still healing and he had been through enough for awhile. He held me in his arms and did not want to ever let go, but I must for the moment. There was something I needed to do.

I walked to the lab, and everything was still intact. But there was one thing that was unusual, the blue liquid was gone. It was like it never existed. I could feel the doctor’s presence in here. I could imagine him humming, and talking to himself as he went about his daily routine. Perhaps he got excited when he invented something new, like the blue liquid. Did he know it would turn out to be a destroyer instead of helper.

No. I do not think he knew. I did not think he was an evil scientist. I had a feeling that the doctor would come back to his lab. They would need a doctor here. yes this is where he belonged.

I left the lab and went to the edge of the catacoombs. There was a dim light in there. I felt no fear as I walked a little ways in. There he stood. I blew him a kiss and smiled. There were tears from my eyes as he waved at me, then a bright light sent a glow around his body. He looked up and turned into a small light. he was with God now. His soul was finally at peace.

The cells were empty, completely empty. Even the doctors daughter had disappeared. Her body was nowhere to be found, and it was just as well. It would not have to be buried.

I walked up the stairs, walking room to room. the doors were all open, none of the doors were locked. the rooms had a musty smell and I began opening windows. Soon, there were women everywhere opening windows, cleaning the rooms, changing the beds, making the hotel a great place to stay.

The room where I had been taken was the last room I entered. The chocolates were gone from the floor, the flowers were gone, and even the memories had disappeared. I opened the window wide to take a breath of fresh air.

The raven was there flying around and beside her was a homing pigeon. It had a note with it. ‘Hello Lady and Hero, I hope this note finds you, and we can communicate.’ It was signed Doctor Grand. 

I felt Hero’s eyes upon me and turned. Oh what a smile he had when he smiled at me. He always melted my heart. “Look Hero, we can communicate now. We can join the two communities. We can trade back and forth, and help each other.

I answered the note with one of my own. ‘Hello doctor. This is Lady, and yes you found us. We are safe and will be home soon.’ I attached the note to the pigeons foot and it flew away.The raven nodded her head as if to say goodbye. I blew her a kiss and said, “Good-bye my friend, and many thanks for all your help.” Then she flew away.

Chapter 27

Hero took hold my hand and I felt the familiar tingle. I did so love that man. “Come Lady, let’s go to the beach.” We walked down the stairs hand in hand, and looked around. Life. There were signs of life everywhere. Everyone were friends now, and working as a team.

Outside it was the same thing. the men were burning old scrap board and trash, measuring sights for building and some talking about growing crops. I over heard bits and pieces of windmills and wheat fields. The first sounded easy enough. There was still enough scrap left even with the flood taking most. Bit the wheat fields? Can you grow wheat in sand? I shook my head and shrugged my shoulders. Anything was possible with God and friends.

It would take a lot of work, and a lot of time, but time was one thing we had plenty of. I stretched my arms to the Heavens reaching for God. I knew He was with me, I knew He held me, and I knew He was the one that gave humanity a chance.

There were no more dead carcasses floating in the water. It was so blue, and calm, so peaceful. It was not long before I saw children running towards the beach, kicking sand as they went. They were laughing and tagging each other, just being kids. How many had mothers or fathers still alive among these people? They would miss them, they would cry, but they had a whole lot of people to look out for them. A big plus; they had God to look out for them.

It was not long before they gave up trying to get the children back to work. then they decided well why not. Soon the beach was filled with men, women, and children, enjoying a day at the beach.







It did no good to resist. I ran barefoot through the sand, as did Hero. I missed laughing, and I missed Hero’s laughter. He caught me, and I let him. We kissed a hello, I missed you, passionate kiss. I had my eyes closed but when I opened them I saw a most wonderful sight.

Coming in to the shore was a row boat with one man aboard. “Hello the shore,” He called out. Hero waded in the water and pulled him ashore.He climbed from the boat and opened a cooler full of fish. “A gift for all you have been through. I hope this will help y’all as you rebuild. Food is scarce I know, but the ocean is full of fish.

“We are on an island, there are about fifty or so of us and most of us have been fishermen all our lives.  Perhaps we can join together and help each other out. We sure could use some help building, and some materials too.

So we were not alone. there were others out there. Our days of exploring were not over yet.

He did not stay, for he needed to be home before the sun turned into the moon. He gave us no directions but we knew we would find him again. The raven was gone, but I am sure God would send another guardian angel to help us in our travels, and we did have a homing pigeon.

It turned out we had a few carpenters, and fishermen here as well. Discussions began on the best way to build a boat, not a row boat but a bigger boat. A boat that could haul goods to our new neighbors, and could fish from too.

The sun was turning and upon the shore of the beach wood had been gathered and a fire started. Fish on a stick? Oh well in this new world we made do with what we had.

That night we had a feast. So much laughter I was content. Hero and I walked the beach, the small waves running over our feet. Hand in hand, silent, each lost in thought. But I think we all had the same thoughts. Everyone was excited about the joining of the three communities. 

And that night, under the stars when all was quite, Hero and I joined for the first time. It was so beautiful, as was the shooting star in the sky. I think God approved.

©Cynthia Clark