We, R: Second, #2

By S.K. Ballinger

In the midst of an unforeseen and unsettling tragedy, Madison Monroe finds herself thrust into a bewildering and harrowing ordeal. Captured by unknown forces and subsequently returned to Earth, Madison awakens to find herself imprisoned within the confines of an undisclosed facility. Confusion and disorientation envelop her as she grapples with the disconcerting reality of her circumstances. Each moment feels like navigating through a labyrinth of fragmented memories, desperately attempting to piece together the events that led to her capture.

Just as Madison teeters on the brink of despair, her narrative takes a suspenseful turn with the unexpected arrival of Agent Nick Wolfe. A mysterious and enigmatic figure, Wolfe becomes an integral part of Madison's unfolding journey. Together, they embark on a tumultuous exploration of the enigma surrounding her situation. Madison's body becomes a cryptic canvas, adorned with inexplicable changes that hint at a latent power lying dormant within her, adding layers of complexity to an already mysterious existence.

Meanwhile, amidst the unfolding drama, the fate of humanity hangs precariously in the balance. Madison's newfound powers hold the potential to unlock the secrets of a looming existential threat. Agent Wolfe takes on the mantle of protector and guide, tasked with safeguarding Madison while deciphering the cryptic nature of her transformation. With each revelation, the tension mounts, unveiling deeper layers of secrecy and conspiracy surrounding Madison's identity.

As Madison's journey unfolds, it becomes a profound odyssey of self-discovery, forcing her to confront the implications of her altered reality. Mystery, science fiction, and the supernatural intertwine seamlessly as she grapples with the implications of her newfound abilities. Alongside Agent Wolfe, Madison delves into the intricate web of secrecy and intrigue, navigating the delicate balance between protection and revelation in the face of an otherworldly destiny.

Through twists and turns, the narrative unfurls as a riveting exploration of identity, power, and the relentless pursuit of truth in the face of overwhelming uncertainty. As Madison traverses the complexities of her existence, she discovers that the answers she seeks lie not only within the depths of her own being but also in the precarious dance between destiny and free will. Will she unlock the mysteries shrouding her past and embrace the extraordinary destiny that awaits her, or will the forces conspiring against her ultimately prevail? The journey towards truth is fraught with peril, but Madison is determined to uncover the secrets that lie at the heart of her existence, no matter the cost.

• Language: English
• Publisher: S.K. Ballinger
• Release date: Nov 3, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393334828

S.K. Ballinger

Residing in Elkton, MD, I am thrilled to announce that two books have recently been released and are Sci-Fi thrillers. I began writing in 2014 and published my first novel in 2015. I've co-authored two horror novels and won 3rd place for the book 'Unfleshed' in the same year. In 2016, I took part in an anthology with all proceeds donated to a charity that the primary author chose. Since then, my wife and I are finalizing our Maryland business license as I continue writing my third sci-fi thriller titled 'We, R Vol.3'. In 2019 I was offered an opportunity to host a few shows on cecil.tv which focuses on local artists, writers, musicians and other talents that surround the local area.

Book preview

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

My family first and foremost. 

Tawni Rae, Daniel Haynes, Marina O'Brix and the many authors and friends I have.

My father Stephen Ballinger, Grandfather Dewey Fadler and my Grandmother Nina

My children and their patience.

and Amy K.

SPECIAL THANKS

My mother Janet Ballinger.  Love you more than you will ever know.  Thank you for being who you are and for helping make me the man I have grown to be.

HER STORY BEGINS

My name is Madison Monroe, and I find myself navigating the intricate labyrinth of life as a freelance writer for a prominent fashion magazine, a role that might seem incongruent with my personal demeanor. Contrary to popular belief, I am not what you might call a fashionista; rather, I am a wordsmith enamored with the power of language and the delicate artistry of photography—a symbiosis where images become poetry in still motion, a dance between the tangible and the ephemeral.

Nestled in the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles, my humble abode is shared with two steadfast companions: Walker, my loyal canine confidant, and Connor, my estranged husband according to legal documents and societal conventions. Yet, the narrative woven by paperwork belies the underlying truths of ownership. The mortgage bears my name, as does the faithful pup by my side. As for Connor, he's become a distant specter in the landscape of my life—a figure whose presence is increasingly elusive and whose significance wanes with each passing day. But that, as they say, is a tale for another occasion.

In the mosaic of my existence, I am but an ordinary tessera, adhering to the routines of daily life: the rhythmic pulse of workouts, the structured confines of the workplace, and the comforting solace of home, where the gentle cadence of Walker's paws on the floor serves as a soothing lullaby. There are no grand virtues to boast of, no extraordinary feats to laud—just the steady ebb and flow of existence, marked by its own quiet simplicity.

However, amidst the monotony of the mundane, there are days when the universe conspires against us, when the threads of fate unravel with malicious intent. Today, dear reader, was one such day—a day where the cosmic scales tipped precariously, ushering in a cascade of misfortune that transformed the ordinary into the extraordinary, the infuriating into the nightmarish.

If there is one lesson to glean from the chaos that ensued, it is this: when the world tilts askew and the fabric of reality frays at the seams, heed the instinct to retreat. Embrace the sanctuary of home, where the walls offer refuge and the silence whispers solace. For in the sanctuary of solitude, amidst the embrace of darkness, lies the respite we seek—a fleeting reprieve from the tempests that rage outside our door. So, when the tempest gathers and the storm clouds loom on the horizon, remember my words: go home, lock the doors, and bury your head beneath the comforting embrace of a pillow.

My day typically begins with the monotonous symphony of my alarm clock piercing through the early morning silence at the ungodly hour of 5:00 am. Like clockwork, I reluctantly emerge from the warmth of my bed, the familiar routine of gathering my clothes for the day unfolding with practiced ease. But today, the absence of Connor's presence in our shared space served as a stark reminder of the solitude that enveloped me. Alone in the dimly lit room, I navigated the familiar terrain with a sense of detachment, my movements devoid of the usual companionship that his presence provided.

As I made my way through the somber shadows of dawn, the tranquility of the morning was abruptly shattered by an unexpected intrusion—a warm, damp sensation beneath my feet that jolted me from my groggy stupor. With a mixture of disbelief and disgust, I realized that I had stepped into a puddle of urine, a testament to the capricious whims of my canine companion.

Oh, Walker! Yuck. What the hell? I exclaimed, my voice tinged with exasperation as I surveyed the scene before me. It had been years since Walker last had an accident indoors, and the sudden deviation from our established routine left me reeling with frustration.

After swiftly remedying the situation with a fervent display of cleaning prowess, I exchanged my disheveled nightclothes for the more practical attire of exercise gear, determined to salvage what remained of the morning. With Walker in tow, we embarked on our customary jog, the rhythmic cadence of our footsteps echoing against the deserted streets.

Yet, as we traversed familiar pathways bathed in the ethereal glow of dawn, it became evident that today was unlike any other. Walker's behavior, typically predictable in its adherence to routine, had taken an unexpected turn, his movements marked by a sense of restlessness that belied his usual demeanor.

Walker boy, what is the matter with you? Ease up, sweetie, I implored, my words falling on deaf ears as he continued to resist my attempts at control. With each passing moment, his agitation intensified, his frantic tugs at the leash propelling us forward with reckless abandon.

Perplexed by his uncharacteristic behavior, I cast a wary glance around us, searching for any sign of a disturbance that might have triggered his sudden outburst. Yet, save for the whispering breeze and the distant hum of the waking city, there was nothing to explain his erratic conduct.

With a surge of frustration coursing through my veins, I struggled to maintain my footing, the force of his momentum threatening to upend my precarious balance. Clutching the leash with white-knuckled determination, I called out into the empty expanse of morning air, my voice tinged with a mixture of desperation and exasperation.

Great. Walker just great! Get back here! Come back! Now! I cried out, the words echoing against the backdrop of dawn as I attempted to rein in his wayward impulses. Yet, despite my fervent entreaties, he remained steadfast in his determination, his form disappearing into the distance with each passing second.

In the wake of his departure, I was left to grapple with the unsettling reality of our fractured routine, the morning's tranquility shattered by the enigmatic mystery of Walker's inexplicable behavior. And as the sun cast its golden rays upon the horizon, I couldn't help but wonder what other surprises awaited me in the unpredictable tapestry of the day ahead.

After what felt like an eternity of frantic pursuit, I finally managed to track down Walker amidst the labyrinthine streets of our neighborhood, his unruly behavior serving as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the morning. With a mixture of relief and exasperation, I secured him with the leash, his stubborn refusal to budge from his stance adding another layer of complexity to the already chaotic scene.

Resigned to the inevitable, I scooped him up into my arms, his weight a tangible reminder of the challenges that lay ahead. With each hurried step, I felt the weight of the morning's events pressing down upon me, a relentless tide threatening to engulf me in its tumultuous wake.

Arriving home, I was greeted by the harsh reality of time's inexorable march, the looming specter of deadlines casting a shadow over the tranquility of the morning. With a sense of urgency coursing through my veins, I set about tending to the essentials, a flurry of activity punctuated by the rhythmic hum of the coffee machine and the soothing cascade of hot water against my skin.

As I stood beneath the invigorating spray, I made a conscious effort to quiet the tumult of thoughts that threatened to overwhelm me, a silent mantra echoing in the recesses of my mind.

Maddie—let the stress slough off of you; you have priorities this morning, I whispered to myself, the words a soothing balm against the relentless onslaught of anxiety.

Yet, even amidst the tranquil sanctuary of the shower, chaos seemed to follow in my wake. With a sudden jolt, the earth trembled beneath my feet, the shower stall rattling with a force that sent my bath products tumbling from their precarious perches. Startled by the unexpected disturbance, I clung to the slick walls for support, the adrenaline coursing through my veins.

No! No more this morning! Enough, I cried out, the words a defiant declaration against the capricious whims of fate.

Thankfully, the tremors subsided as quickly as they had begun, leaving in their wake a trail of disarray and disorder. With a resigned sigh, I made a mental note to address the aftermath later, the pressing demands of the present overshadowing any thoughts of cleanup or restoration.

Emerging from the confines of my home, I found solace in the familiar embrace of routine, the promise of caffeine serving as a beacon of hope amidst the chaos that enveloped me. Yet, even in my haste, fate seemed determined to thwart my every move, a chance encounter with a throng of unruly dogs spelling disaster for my carefully orchestrated plans.

Jeez! What is up with all the dogs? I muttered under my breath, the frustration evident in my voice as I surveyed the wreckage of my spilled coffee, the bitter aroma mingling with the crisp morning air.

With a resigned shrug, I forged ahead, the weight of the morning's trials bearing down upon me with relentless force. And as I ventured forth into the uncertain expanse of the day ahead, I couldn't help but wonder what other obstacles lay in wait, lurking just beyond the horizon.

The morning had unraveled into a cacophony of chaos, each moment more bewildering than the last. As I stepped out of the defunct taxi, frustration boiled over, my muttered curses lost in the din of the bustling city streets. With a sense of resignation, I parted ways with the driver, his retreating figure a fleeting reminder of the transient nature of human connections.

Navigating the labyrinthine alleys of downtown Los Angeles, I sought solace in the comforting familiarity of routine, the rhythmic cadence of my footsteps a stark contrast to the tumultuous events that had unfolded with alarming swiftness. Yet, even amidst the comforting embrace of familiarity, the specter of uncertainty loomed large, casting a shadow over the fragile semblance of normalcy that I clung to with desperate fervor.

As I made my way through the dimly lit alleyways, the ominous rumble of thunder reverberated through the air, a harbinger of the impending storm that threatened to engulf the city in its wrath. With a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach, I quickened my pace, the urgency of the situation driving me forward with reckless abandon.

Glancing skyward, I watched as dark clouds gathered on the horizon, their ominous presence a chilling reminder of the fragility of existence. With each passing moment, the tension in the air grew palpable, a silent testament to the impending tempest that loomed on the horizon.

Lost in the maelstrom of my thoughts, I scarcely noticed the subtle shift in the atmosphere, the air crackling with an otherworldly energy that sent shivers cascading down my spine. And then, without warning, it happened—a blinding flash of light followed by a deafening crack that rent the air asunder.

Instinctively, I recoiled from the sudden onslaught, my hands flying to shield my eyes from the searing brilliance that engulfed me. Yet, even as I sought refuge from the chaos that threatened to consume me, fate intervened with a cruel twist of fate, the ground beneath my feet giving way with alarming suddenness.

With a sharp cry of alarm, I tumbled headlong into the darkness, the world spinning wildly as I plummeted into the unknown depths below. And then, as suddenly as it had begun, everything went dark.

When consciousness returned, it did so with a vengeance, my head throbbing with a dull ache as I struggled to make sense of my surroundings. Disoriented and disheveled, I found myself surrounded by darkness, the faint glow of distant lights offering scant illumination amidst the oppressive gloom.

Summoning every ounce of resolve within me, I staggered to my feet, the harsh scrape of gravel against my palms a stark reminder of the harsh reality that awaited me. With trembling hands, I reached for my purse, only to find it conspicuously absent, its contents lost to the void that now engulfed me.

Panic gnawed at the edges of my consciousness, threatening to overwhelm me in its suffocating embrace. Yet, even amidst the chaos and confusion, a glimmer of determination flickered within me, a stubborn refusal to succumb to the darkness that threatened to consume me.

Summoning every last vestige of strength, I forged ahead, the steady rhythm of my footsteps echoing against the oppressive silence that surrounded me. And as I ventured forth into the unknown expanse that lay ahead, I couldn't help but wonder what other trials awaited me in this twisted labyrinth of fate.

ONE CAN ONLY HIDE FOR SO LONG

In the eerie stillness of the night, I remained rooted to the spot, the weight of uncertainty pressing down upon me like a suffocating shroud. With each passing moment, the sense of impending danger loomed large, a palpable presence that seemed to seep into every crevice of my being.

Clamping my mouth shut in a futile attempt to quell the rising tide of fear, I groped blindly in the darkness, my fingers searching desperately for something—anything—that could serve as a means of defense against the encroaching threat. Yet, even as I sought refuge in the darkness, the voice of my assailant cut through the silence like a knife, his words a chilling reminder of the perilous situation in which I found myself.

Mrs. Monroe.

The sound of my own name uttered in the cold, impersonal tones of a stranger sent a shiver coursing down my spine, my mind racing to comprehend the implications of his knowledge. How had he come to possess such intimate details of my identity? And more importantly, what did he want from me?

Casting a wary glance around the dimly lit confines of the truck bed, I struggled