Earth Torn Asunder: The Recruit

By Brian Daniels

Following the devastation of the Great War, the Earth lies in ruins. Many of the nations of the world no longer exist. Some have been torn apart, other joined into one new nation. Born out of fears and paranoia, most of the remaining nations as well as the new emerging ones start to pass new rigid laws to ensure the survival of their people.
Fifteen year old Alexander Reed falls victim to the now decades old harsh laws of the Northern States of America and is forced into military service. He and others like him become an unwilling part of the established system. But is there more going on than first appears?
As Alex and his new teammates struggle to make sense of everything going on around them and survive in the cold and uncaring world they are now part of, decisions will be made that could mean life or death to them all. Can Alex overcome the odds and escape the horrors that await him in the military or will he ultimately be broken and remain a soldier for the rest of his life?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu Publishing Services
• Release date: Dec 14, 2015
• ISBN: 9781483441306

Book preview

possible

CHAPTER ONE

Alexander Reed was sitting up on his bed staring into his dresser’s mirror that was on the other side of the room. He was averaged sized for a boy of his age, a bit toned but not too muscular. Many of the girls from his school would flirt with him and they always told him how nice he looked. Looking at him today, though, they probably wouldn’t think that since his short black hair hadn’t been combed yet. Not that it really mattered to him since he was still in his pajamas and he wasn’t planning on going anywhere. In fact, he really hadn’t left his bedroom at all since the official notice arrived for him a few days ago.

In the mirror he could just see the tile that was loose at the bottom of the wall next to his bed. He never like the design of the walls which were colored a pale blue and were completely smooth on the top half of the wall with extremely large square tiles on the bottom. The movers, while bringing in his bed and other furniture, had bumped one of the tiles and it had become loose. Despite how he felt about the look, the loose tile covered a rather large hole in the wall where he was able to hide all of his personal and private things and was easy to remove and replace. In fact, he had his desk placed on the other side so his parents wouldn’t see it and have it repaired.

Alex got off the bed and moved a small chair which had his backpack on it so he could kneel by the desk. He quietly moved the loose tile there and pulled out a small red box, being careful so as not to knock the lamp off the table. The last thing he wanted right now was to explain to his parents was how he managed to break it.

He opened the box and pulled out the notice that was on top and quickly closed it back up. After returning it to its hiding spot, he lay back down on his bed and stared at the notice. Despite not opening it, he knew what it was. Since the Great War, government documents, including official notices like the one now in his hand, were about the only letters that were still hand delivered. He was the only one home at the time it arrived and since it was addressed to him anyway, he took it and had hid it. He was just hoping this was all one big mistake.

Reluctantly, Alex decided to finally open the notice and read it. He shook his head and sighed. It was just as he feared; it was an official notice indicating that he had failed his third class since entering secondary school. He couldn’t believe it. Except for his history class, which he did pass, he thought he had done well in school this year. The notice served as his official draft notice. According to the notice, he had failed his earth biology class this year, and it ordered him to report the induction center for the next Soldier Training Class which was now only three days away. At that time, he would be undergoing a full medical exam, classification and sent to the appropriate training center to learn to be a soldier.

Alex had just turned fifteen and didn’t want to be a soldier, but knew he wouldn’t have a choice in the matter. If he didn’t report as ordered, the military would track him down, and there could be severe penalties for both him and his family. As miserable as he felt, he didn’t want anything to happen to them because of this.

And the worst part about it was he wouldn’t be allowed to actually see his family or friends for several years until he reached grade four and then only for limited times, since family and friends were officially considered to be a distraction to soldiers. If he reached grade five, then he would be able to see them more frequently.

Alex also knew that if for some reason should he be discharged from service, he would be able to return to them. Normally to be discharged, you would have to achieve grade five and serve for at least two years at or above that grade. One would have to basically be at the top of the class and there would have to be no problems of any kind to be able to get your bi-yearly grade promotions. For Alex, that would mean he wouldn’t be discharged out of the military until he was at minimum twenty five years of age.

An early discharge was probably out of the question as he would have to have to sustain some kind of permanent physical injury or impairment that would prevent him from doing his job in the eyes of the military. These types of discharges were extremely rare and not very desirable considering the circumstances.

As Alex continued to look over the notice, he wondered how he was going to tell his parents about this. More importantly, he wondered how he would break the news to his little sister, McKenna. McKenna was almost three years younger than he was and really looked up to Alex. Alex always looked out for her and would do almost anything for her, especially when McKenna showed him the look. At least that was what he called it. It wasn’t much more than McKenna staring at him with her big baby blue eyes, but Alex found it hard to say no any time she did. They were about as close as a brother and sister could be and this would simply just devastate her.

A knock on his bedroom door brought Alex back to his senses. He quickly shoved the notice under the pillows of his bed.

Alex, are you in there? A voice from the door called.

Yeah, McKenna, I’m here. What do you want? Alex called back, a little rougher than he really intended to.

Are you all right? McKenna asked.

I’m fine. What do you want? Alex repeated a little less harsh this time.

Mom just wanted me to let you know that lunch is ready.

Okay, I’ll be there in a few minutes.

Alex heard McKenna leave and head back toward the kitchen. He checked the notice under his pillow to make sure the notice was fully hidden from sight. He didn’t want anyone, especially McKenna, to find out until he mustered up enough courage to tell everyone.

Alex again climbed out of bed and this time went over to the door and opened it. He hesitated a moment, worrying about how to mention it. He wasn’t even sure he wanted to tell McKenna at all, but deep down he knew she deserved to know, and it was best coming from him personally. He decided he would wait until tomorrow, his next to last day of freedom, to say anything.

Alex wandered into the kitchen for his lunch. His sister was already seated at the table. She was as pretty as their mother, a miniature spitting image of her with her black hair tied back in a ponytail that went halfway down her back and her delicate, thin build. She was so thin; it reminded Alex of some of the plants and small trees that grew on their grandparent’s agro farm. The only real difference between McKenna and her mom was that McKenna had to wear glasses to see clearly. This had brought on a lot of teasing from her classmates at school, especially at first, but Alex was always there for her and would step in if things got too rough for her.

Their mom brought over a plate of sandwiches and set them on the table for everyone. McKenna quickly grabbed one and started eating, not waiting for anyone else.

Well, look who finally got out of bed, Alex’s Mom said with a bit of a smile, and before noon. What do we owe the pleasure?

McKenna said lunch was ready, Alex said rather grumpily, What kind of sandwiches are those?

You’re favorite kind, McKenna chimed in between bites, real ham and cheese.

Alex thought about it for a minute and said, Where did you get real ham?

Your father won it in an office raffle a couple of weeks ago, remember. At least that’s what he said, Mrs. Reed commented, You seem kind of down in the dumps recently and I thought this might cheer you up.

Alex reached for a sandwich, not really complaining, since real meat was very rare and extremely expensive since the Great War. He quickly ate the sandwich and reached for another.

So, do you have any plans for today, or are you going to continue to hang out in your room all day like you have been doing for the last week? Mrs. Reed asked with a tone of concern in her voice.

I’m fine, Mom. And yes, I plan on hanging out in my room. Is that all right with you? Alex replied angrily.

McKenna looked at Alex, taken aback by Alex’s sudden outburst.

What? Alex yelled to McKenna, noticing her stare.

Well, I was hoping you would go with me to the science museum. Today’s the last day of the exhibition on twentieth and twenty first century computers and technology and you promised to go with me, McKenna replied, still staring at Alex.

I’m sorry, McKenna, I don’t feel like going anywhere.

Why, Alex? You promised me.

I said no, McKenna. If you want to go that bad, then ask someone else like Ana. She’d probably go with you. Now please leave me alone! Alex yelled.

Alex! his mother said, You don’t have to yell. Apologize to your sister this instant!

No.

Alex…

Before his mother could finish, Alex got up and returned to his bedroom. A loud slam could be heard in the kitchen.

Mom, what’s gotten into Alex? McKenna asked with a startled look on her face, Did I do something wrong? He’s been ignoring me all week, and that’s only when he comes out of his room.

I don’t know, McKenna, but something is definitely bothering him. If you really want to go to the museum, why don’t you call Ana and see if she wants to go. If so, I can take you this afternoon, Mrs. Reed said while getting up, Now, just finish your lunch while I go talk to your brother.

Mrs. Reed left the kitchen and headed towards Alex’s bedroom. When she got there, she knocked on the door and said softly, Alex.

There was no reply so she knocked again, Alex.

When Alex still didn’t answer, she opened the door. Alex, we need to talk.

Go away! was the only reply Mrs. Reed received.

Mrs. Reed entered the bedroom and closed the door behind her. She saw Alex lying face up on his bed staring at the ceiling.

No, Alex, I won’t. Something has clearly been bothering you all week and I want to know what it is, Mrs. Reed said, while moving Alex’s backpack to his desk and sitting down next to the bed. Since you found out about that space exhibit, you couldn’t speak of anything else. You were doing odd jobs after school and on weekends around the neighborhood just to earn enough credits to go to it with your sister. And you did promise your sister you would take her. In the last week, you won’t leave your room, you don’t see or talk to your friends at all, and worst of all, you yell at all of us, your dad, me and McKenna, for absolutely no reason at all. Now, I want to know what is going on.

Nothing is going on. Now, go away and leave me alone! Alex yelled.

Alex, I’m worried about you. If there’s something wrong, I want to know.

Mom, please. There is nothing wrong. Just leave me alone! Alex yelled even louder.

Alex, calm down. Now please explain to me why, all of a sudden, you don’t leave your room.

Because I don’t feel like it!

But why, Alex? There has to be a reason. Now tell me what is going on, Mrs. Reed pleaded.

Alright, fine! You really want to know? Alex screamed, You really, really want to know?

Yes, Alex, I really want to know. I’m your mother and maybe I can help you. Now please stop yelling and tell me.

Alex sat up and reached under his pillow. He pulled out the notice and looked at his mother. You want to know what’s bothering me. Well, this here. This is what’s been bothering me! I doubt there is anything you can do about it! Alex yelled as he handed the notice over to his mother, This semester I apparently failed another class. My third. You know what that means.

Good grief, Alex! Mrs. Reed said, shocked and perplexed, Why didn’t you tell us about this when it first arrived?

What good would it have done? Alex commented lying back down, It’s not like you can do anything about it or stop it from happening.

Mrs. Reed stood up and almost dropped the notice. First of all, you don’t know that for sure. But why, Alex, why hide this from us?

I guess I just didn’t want you to worry, especially McKenna.

Worry, Alex? Mrs. Reed exclaimed, If you told us about this right away, we could have, at the very least, looked into it.

And do what exactly?

Mrs. Reed walked around the room before sitting back down. Alex never moved a muscle. I don’t know, Alex! Something besides you just lying in bed all day! Anyway, what class did you fail? Was it that history class you were struggling with?

No, I managed to pass that. The class I failed was earth biology.

Earth biology? I thought you were doing well in that class. What happened?

I thought I was doing fine, too, Alex said, his voice becoming louder again, until I received that notice.

Did you ever consider that maybe someone made a mistake? Mrs. Reed asked.

Of course I did, but does it really matter? It’s not like it can be changed or anything.

Alex, if it is an actual mistake, we should be able to get it cleared up. If not, maybe there are other options, but lying in that bed all day feeling sorry for yourself isn’t one of them. Mrs. Reed paused for a moment before continuing, Let me get a hold of your father at work and tell him what’s going on. Your Dad works for a good law firm. Maybe he could find a way to help you out. We can discuss this with him when he gets home.

Mom, Dad’s not a lawyer; he’s just a computer technician there. He can’t help.

Maybe, maybe not. But he works closely with the lawyers there, and maybe one of them could.

Alex sat up and stared at his mother. Mom, those lawyers are civilian lawyers, not military. What could they possibly do?

I don’t know, Alex. At least give your father a chance to talk to the lawyers, before you just give up, Okay?

Fine. Now can I be alone? Alex asked.

Yes, Alex, if that’s what you really want. I’ll go call your father. Be ready to talk about this when he gets here.

Don’t tell McKenna about this yet. There’s no point in upsetting her.

Look, I know you want to protect your sister, but you’re going to have to tell her sooner or later. Besides, you owe her one big apology for not going to the science museum today.

Yeah, I suppose your right, but not just right now, Alex said finally starting to calm down.

All right, you can wait until after you talk with your father. But then, we’ll need to tell her, Mrs. Reed said getting up and moving toward the door. Are you sure you don’t want to go to the museum? McKenna would really like it if you did.

No, Mom. Please, I just want to be alone.

If you should change your mind, I’ll be taking McKenna and Ana later this afternoon. Just let me know.

For the last time, I don’t want to. Just go already. I want to be left alone, A frustrated Alex said.

Alex watched his mom leave his room. At least now he didn’t have to find a way to tell his parents anymore, they now knew. He still would have to tell McKenna, and wasn’t sure how to go about that without upsetting her completely. He would definitely wait until after he had a chance to speak to his dad. Maybe, just maybe, there was something that could be done after all.

Alex closed his eyes and started thinking about how he would break the news to his sister, what she would think about all of this, more importantly how he had let down his entire family. With all those thought swirling around in his head, Alex fell into an uneasy dreamless sleep.

CHAPTER TWO

Mrs. Reed walked down the hall to the edge of the kitchen where the main videophone was. She saw that McKenna was talking to Ana.

McKenna, I need to use the videophone for a moment, Mrs. Reed said with some concern in her voice.

Just one sec, Ana, McKenna said to the videophone then looked at her mom, What did you say Mom?

I said I need to use the videophone. Could you hurry it up?

Sure thing, Mom. What time are we going to the museum?

Tell Ana we should be able to pick her up in about an hour or so, if that’ll work.

Okay, McKenna said returning her attention to the videophone, Sorry about that. Mom said we can pick you up in about an hour.

"Sounds good. What are you wearing?" The blonde girl on the videophone screen said.

I thought I would wear that new dark blue outfit I just got. What are you wearing? McKenna replied.

"I don’t know, maybe that red shirt I have with jeans."

McKenna, Mrs. Reed called. Could you please wrap it up? I need to call your Dad before we leave. It’s kind of urgent.

All right, Mom, McKenna said and quickly turned back to the phone, Ana, I have to go. Mom needs the videophone. I’ll see you in an hour or so.

"Okay, I’ll see you then," The videophone screen went dark.

Finished, Mom, McKenna called out to her mom who had gone into the kitchen.

Good. Now go get ready while I call your Dad, Mrs. Reed instructed.

Is this about Alex?

Don’t worry about it. Just go get ready while I make this call.

McKenna didn’t argue and went to her bedroom. Mrs. Reed dialed the videophone and waited for a response.

"Hoyt Agency, how may I direct your call?" asked the receptionist.

Benjamin Reed, please.

"Please hold," the receptionist stated. The screen changed to display a large orange H with a smaller A to the bottom right of it. A very plain logo Mrs. Reed thought. A few moments later the screen displayed the image of a man in his early forties with short light brown hair. The figure was smiling.

"Honey, this is a surprise. What can I do for you?" Mr. Reed asked in a very cheerful tone.

I found out what was bothering Alex today.

"Really? You mean he finally told you. It isn’t something serious, is it?"

Serious is the understatement of the year. Are you sitting down?

"Honey, what’s going on?" Mr. Reed asked, the cheerfulness in his voice was now gone.

Alex received an official notice about a week ago and didn’t bother to tell anyone. The notice stated that he failed a third class and was being drafted into the military.

"He what?! Mr. Reed exclaimed, Hold on a second, let me transfer this to a private office." Mrs. Reed’s videophone started displaying the Agency’s logo once again.

After a few moments, Mr. Reed returned to the screen. "Tell me exactly what has happened."

He received a notice stating that he failed his earth biology class this semester, and since this was this third failing grade, was being drafted into the military. Can you talk to one of the lawyers and see what can be done about this?

"You’re sure it was earth biology?"

Yes, Dear, I have the notice here.

"It has to be a mistake. I thought Alex received excellent grades all year in that class."

So did I, and Alex, Mrs. Reed said.

"Can you send me a copy of that notice?" Mr. Reed asked.

Mrs. Reed took the notice out of the envelope, unfolded it, and fed it in the document scanner port on the videophone and pushed the send button. The scanner hummed for a couple of moments then spit the notice back out. On the other end of the videophone, Mrs. Reed saw Mr. Reed take the copy out of the receiver port.

"You’re right. It does say earth biology, Mr. Reed said in disbelief, Do we still have copies of Alex’s grades, particularly the final grades for the semester?"

Hold on a moment, I’ll go see, Mrs. Reed replied, heading for her bedroom to get her video pad. The slim flat rectangular device was lying on small table next to her bed. She picked up the hand held instrument and turned it on. She ran her fingers across the touch screen and retrieved Alex’s grade reports that were stored in the memory. She looked at them and didn’t see anything unusual or out of the ordinary except that the final grades for the year were not there. She read what was there, and the lowest grade on the reports was Alex’s history grade which, while it was lower than the others, wasn’t failing. What was going on didn’t make much sense to her, maybe the lawyers could figure out what was happening. She took the video pad with her and quickly returned to the videophone.

When she arrived there, McKenna was talking to her Dad. I can’t wait to see everything. It’s going to be a blast. Alex doesn’t know what he’s missing.

"I’m sure McKenna, but that’s his choice. Just enjoy yourself, Okay. Oh, by the way, be sure not to miss the meteorite display they have there. They were supposed to have come from a long way away."

I definitely won’t miss that, McKenna excitedly replied.

"Good girl. Now put your Mom back on for a minute, would you?"

Okay, Daddy, McKenna replied.

Mrs. Reed looked at McKenna and asked, Are you ready?

Not quite, I still have to fix my hair, McKenna said her hair was now hanging loose.

Well, go finish getting ready and we’ll leave when I finish talking to your father.

Okay, McKenna cheerfully replied and headed back toward her bedroom.

Once McKenna had left, Mrs. Reed returned to the videophone.

"Excited, isn’t she?" Mr. Reed said.

Yeah, that she definitely is, Mrs. Reed commented then turning to the more serious matter at hand, I have Alex’s grade cards here. All the quarterly cards say pretty much the same thing. His grades in the earth biology class are all in the mid to upper 90’s. There is nothing to indicate he actually failed that class.

"What are the actual grades for that class on the cards?"

Mrs. Reed flipped through the grade cards on her video pad, According to these, the first quarter is at a 96 percent, midterm is 95 and the third quarter is 97. The final grade isn’t here.

"Isn’t there? You’re sure?"

Yes, there are only the three grade reports. No final end of year report.

"Can you send over what you have? I would like to see them and I’ll probably need them when I go talk to our people."

Mrs. Reed placed her video pad onto the docking port of the videophone and directly downloaded the grade reports she had to Mr. Reed. Once Mr. Reed received, printed and read over them, he just shook his head and said, "I really don’t understand what happened here. I’ll take this upstairs and let everyone look at it and see what we can do to fix this."

Do you really think this can be fixed?

"If it’s just a computer error, then yes, we should be able to."

And if it’s not? Mrs. Reed asked almost afraid of the answer.

"Look, we have great lawyers here, and if they can’t find a solution to this, there are a couple of good military lawyers that the Hoyt Agency refers matters like this to. The only thing that concerns me it the amount of time we have left. If Alex had given this to us right away, he would probably be heading to that museum exhibit with McKenna right now without a care in the world. But at is it, we only have two or three days to fix all this. Try not to worry about it. Go take McKenna to the museum and I’ll talk to you and Alex about this when I get home."

All right, Dear. Love you.

"I love you too."

The screen on the videophone went blank.

McKenna, are you ready to go? Mrs. Reed called down the hallway.

Yeah, Mom, I’m ready. I just need to put my shoes on.

Hurry up, we still need to go pick up Ana.

McKenna ran back out of her room carrying her shoes. She sat in the family room and put them on while Mrs. Reed went back to Alex’s room. Alex, McKenna and I are leaving now. Are you sure you don’t want to go?

Mrs. Reed opened the door and saw that Alex was already asleep. She quietly closed the door and left with McKenna.

CHAPTER THREE

Alex woke up to the sound of a knock on his bedroom door. The door opened, and before he could say anything, Alex’s father entered the room.

Hello, Alex, Mr. Reed said, we need to talk. Do you have a few minutes?

Hello, Dad, Alex replied while yawning.

Mr. Reed sat down on the edge of Alex’s bed, Your Mom called me and told me what happened. Why didn’t you let us know about this when you first received that notice?

I don’t know. I guess I just didn’t know how to tell you, Alex said, sitting up.

Well, you should have just come straight to us.

I know, but I was scared.

I imagine so, but still, Alex, we’re your parents. If you came to us right away, we could have discussed this and possibly got this whole thing fixed already.

You mean there’s a chance to actually fix this. I may not have to go into the military.

Yes, Alex, there is a chance. After your Mom called me, I made some inquiries. I was referred to Walter Shannon. He’s a military lawyer that our firm refers most of its military cases to. One of the best, I might add. I spoke to him and told him what your Mom told me. Since I work for the Hoyt agency, Mr. Shannon agreed to take on your case even on this short notice. He would like to see you first thing tomorrow morning so he can talk to you directly. Because you waited so long, there is no time to waste, so make sure you are ready to go.

Okay, sounds good, Alex said, feeling a sense of relief for the first time since the notice arrived. How soon do we need to be there?

Our appointment is at 8:00 a.m. He said he would be there early, so if we arrive a little before that, he’d see us. Set your alarm for 5:00 so you can be up and ready to go no later than 6:00. That should give us plenty of time to get there. Make sure you shower and dress nice.

I’ll be ready.

Good. One more thing, make sure you have that notice with you.

Not a problem. Anything else? Alex asked, actually excited.

Just remind me, before we leave in the morning, to make sure I have your grade cards downloaded from throughout the year.

I’ll leave myself a note.

Alright, I think that’s everything for now. Supper should be ready, so if your hungry, come on down.

I’ll be there in a few minutes.

Alex was actually smiling as his father left the room. There may actually be a chance to avoid going into the military after all. He got up off the bed and went over and set the alarm on his video pad to wake him up at 5:00 tomorrow morning, just so he wouldn’t forget to do it later. He then went over to his closet and picked out his clothes for tomorrow, hung them on the door knob of his closet and put the notice in the pocket of his pants.

He then dug out an old pair of pants and shirt. He decided to actually get dressed, even though it was getting late in the day. Once dressed, he left his room and headed for the dining room. Mr. Reed insisted on using the dining room for evening meals, so the family could all be together. Alex thought this was severely old fashioned, but never really argued the point.

When Alex arrived in the dining room, everyone was already seated at the table. He took his seat and everyone started eating.

So, did you and Ana enjoy your trip to the museum?

Oh yes, Daddy. It was great! McKenna looked over at Alex, You don’t know what you missed.

Honey, Mrs. Reed chimed in, Don’t upset your brother.

I’m not upsetting you, am I, Alex?

Alex looked up from his plate, No, McKenna, you’re not. So, what was so exciting there?

Well, everything really. Everything there was all pre-Great War. They had all kinds of ancient computers and things called tablets that looked very similar to our video pads. There were lots of photos and stuff of old air shuttles; I think they called them airplanes.

I remember seeing an exhibit on them when the school took us there a couple of years ago. They were incredibly long and looked really strange with those long wings.

Yeah, Alex, they were strange looking and very slow according to the exhibit. They said they had to actually build up speed to take off, not just head straight up. McKenna looked over to her father, I also saw those funny rocks you told me about Daddy, although they were just rocks really.

Mr. Reed grinned at that. What else?

Still excited, McKenna continued, Well, they had a huge exhibit on old fashioned entertainment. They had a very old, basic computer. It was the shape of a small box and on it there was a small opening where you could put an even smaller box and when connected to a large monitor they called, I think, a television, it displayed funny animated figures running around and jumping on things. It was some kind of a game and was supposed to be very popular back in the late twentieth century.

I’m glad you enjoyed yourself, Mrs. Reed stated, Now finish your supper before it gets cold.

McKenna finished first and asked to be excused. She wanted to write an entry into her diary that she kept on her video pad before she forgot anything about the museum.

When Alex finished eating, he left his parents to clean up afterwards and went into the family room where McKenna was and sat down next to her on the couch.

McKenna, Alex whispered to her.

McKenna looked up from her video pad and over at her brother, Yeah, Alex.

Alex looked over to her, Look McKenna, I’m sorry about earlier. I know you really wanted me to take you to the museum today and it sounded like it would have been a lot fun, but I’ve had a lot of things on my mind recently. I didn’t mean to snap at you like I did. Everything just sort of all came out at once.

It’s alright, Alex. I know you didn’t mean it, McKenna said with a little bit of sadness in her voice.

No, it’s not alright. I really didn’t mean to upset you, Alex continued, It’s just… well… I really don’t know how to say this.

Say what, Alex? Is there something wrong? asked McKenna.

Alex lowered his head, not able to look her in the eyes anymore. Well, yes there is. I have some rather, well, unpleasant news. I don’t know exactly how to say this.

McKenna looked over to Alex. What is it?

Well, I really don’t know how to say this, but… Alex hesitated, looking for the right words to say.

Alex, you’re repeating yourself. What do you want to tell me?

Well, I don’t want to upset you, but, well… here goes. Alex took a deep breath and continued, Did you look at your final grades for the year?

No. My grades were good all year. I’m sure Mom and Dad would have said something if they weren’t.

I didn’t look at mine either. Now I wish I had.

McKenna started to get a little anxious, Why? What’s wrong, Alex?

About a week ago I received a hand delivered notice from the government.

Alex raised his head and looked back into McKenna’s eyes. He had a rather serious look on his face. After a moment, McKenna’s expression changed and he knew she understood.

Alex, No! Please, no! Please say it’s not so! McKenna said with tears starting to form in her eyes.

I am so, so sorry, McKenna. But, unfortunately yes, it true. According to the notice, I failed another class. I don’t know how or why, but the letter was my Soldier Training notice.

At that, McKenna couldn’t say anything more and started sobbing uncontrollably. Alex just held her for several minutes. He felt just terrible about the whole thing.

Their dad watched from the doorway to the kitchen, not saying a word. His wife, hearing McKenna, looked over at him, What’s going on in there?

Alex just told McKenna.

Mrs. Reed started to head into the living room, but was stopped by her husband. Honey, don’t. Let Alex handle this.

But, Dear…

No. You know this is something Alex needs to do. If they need us, they’ll come. Until then, just let them be.

Are you sure?

Yes, Honey, I’m sure. Let’s finish clearing up. Both of them returned to the kitchen.

Neither Alex nor McKenna saw their parents in the doorway. Alex still had his arm around McKenna’s shoulder. She had stopped crying. Eventually McKenna asked him, How long until you leave?

I have to report to the induction center in three days. Alex didn’t know if it would be any comfort or not, but continued, Mom and Dad both think that a mistake has been made, since I was really doing well in the class that the notice said I failed. Dad talked to a lawyer for me, a lawyer who specializes in military law. He said he thinks there still may be a chance for me to get out of all of this. I meet with the lawyer first thing in the morning. I’ll know more then.

Promise me you’ll do whatever you have to do to stay out of the military.

I’ll do what I can and hopefully the lawyer I’m going to see will help. Believe me; I have absolutely no desire to be in the military. I’m going to need your help to get though all of this.

Sure Alex, What can I do? McKenna said wiping her eyes.

I’m scared McKenna, more than I ever have been I my life and I don’t know how this is all going to turn out. I don’t want to seem selfish at a time like this, but I need you to be brave for me. I don’t want to have to worry about you while all this is going on.

McKenna looked up at Alex; her hair was falling into her face and covered her eyes. Okay, I’ll try.

With his free hand, Alex gently brushed McKenna’s hair back and looked at her sympathetically. He removed her glasses and placed them on the table in front of them. McKenna just sat there with her head on Alex’s shoulder. Soon she fell asleep.

Alex’s parents eventually came into the room. His mother looked at the pair of them, How’s it going in here?

Alex looked over to her, About as good as can be expected. McKenna didn’t take the news very well. She cried for a while and finally fell asleep.

I still think we should have been here when you told her, but your Dad disagreed.

It’s all right, Mom. Besides, I haven’t exactly been real nice to her or anyone this last week. I kind of wanted to apologize to her.

You see, Madeline, I told you Alex had this under control.

Yes, I guess you’re right. But what now?

Alex spoke up, I think I’ll carry McKenna to her bedroom and put her to bed. Afterwards, I’m going to bed myself. I do believe we have an early appointment tomorrow with my lawyer.

Good idea, Alex, Mr. Reed said, I think I’ll retire myself. Then looking over to Mrs. Reed, he added, Coming, Dear?

I’ll be there in a minute.

Mr. Reed headed down the hallway toward his bedroom.

Alex moved McKenna over slightly so he could stand up. He then very gently picked her up so not to wake her and carried her to her bedroom. He went slowly and carefully so as not to bump her into anything.

Mrs. Reed followed right behind them. When they got to McKenna’s room, Mrs. Reed went in first to pull the covers down on the bed. Alex laid McKenna down on the bed, removed her shoes and pulled the covers over her.

You don’t mind if I don’t put her in her pajamas? Alex whispered to his Mom.

No, Alex, she’ll be fine tonight.

McKenna rolled onto her side without waking. Alex and his mother went back into the hall.

How are you doing, Alex?

Better now, although I’m a bit nervous about tomorrow.

That’s understandable, but I still wish you had told us about the notice when you first got it.

Now I wish I had too. I’m really sorry I didn’t. I just didn’t know what to do.

Alex, your dad and I both love you and we don’t want anything bad to ever happen to you but when it does, please come to us. Unfortunately, we can’t go back and change what’s happened so hopefully everything will work out tomorrow.

Yeah, I hope so, too.

Well, goodnight Alex. You better be getting to bed. You don’t want to be late tomorrow.

I will in a moment. I just want to get McKenna’s glasses and put them in her room. I’ll see you in the morning.

Alex watched as his mother went down the hall to her bedroom. Alex walked back out to the living room and retrieved the glasses. He took them to McKenna’s room and put them on the nightstand next to her bed. Without waking her, he bent over the bed and gave McKenna a gentle kiss on her cheek. He then headed to his own bedroom.

When he got there, he checked the clothes he had hanging on his closet doorknob. The notice was still in the pocket of his pants, right where he had left it. He went over to his dresser and got a clean pair of pajamas, quickly changed, and double checked his video pad and climbed into bed.

Between the fact that he slept most of the day and he was starting to worry about tomorrow, sleep managed to elude him. He shut his eyes, but it didn’t help. He kicked the covers off and rolled over to no avail. As he lay there, he started to think more and more about what was to come and if the attorney his Dad was taking him to really could get him out of this mess.

After a while, he got up and sat down at his desk. He picked up his video pad and checked the time. It was getting close to midnight.

Alex went out to the kitchen and got a glass of water and sat down at the kitchen table in the dark. He drank the water slowly, still thinking about everything. He was thinking so much he let his imagination get away from himself, to the point he started to scare himself.

He put his glass in the sink and returned to his bedroom and climbed back into bed. He laid there staring at the ceiling again. He realized he was doing that a lot ever since the notice arrived.

Slowly, Alex’s eyes started to get heavy and he finally fell back into a restless sleep.

CHAPTER FOUR

Alex’s alarm seemed unusually loud at 5:00 A.M. when it went off. He grabbed his video pad and turned it off. As he lay there, he heard a knock on his door. Alex, are you awake?

Sleepily, Alex replied, Yeah, Dad, I am.

Just checking. Did you want any breakfast before we leave?

I don’t know, maybe just some toast.

All right, I’ll tell your Mom. Go ahead and get ready and I’ll meet you in the kitchen.

Alex stretched his arms as he climbed out of bed. I’ll be there in a few minutes. He then grabbed the clothes he had hanging on the closet doorknob, went over to his dresser and pulled out a pair of socks and a change of underclothes and headed for the bathroom, peeking into McKenna’s room as he passed it. She was still asleep, lying on her side just where Alex had left her the night before, softly snoring.

Not wanting to disturb her, he quietly continued to the bathroom. He quickly showered and got dressed and went to the kitchen where his parents were waiting.

Morning, Alex.

Morning, Mom.

Your Dad said you wanted toast for breakfast?

Just a slice or two. I’m not really that hungry right now. Alex sat down at the kitchen table next to his dad. Alex’s mother brought him his toast.

Did you want any juice with that?

Maybe just a small glass.

Mr. Reed looked over at Alex, Do you have the notice with you?

Alex reached into his pocket and pulled out the envelope. I have it right here, Dad. He held it up and returned it to his pocket. Do you have my grade cards?

Let me double check. Mr. Reed pulled out his video pad and turned it on. He pressed the screen a couple of times and retrieved Alex’s grades. Yes, they’re there.

Mrs. Reed brought over two glasses of orange juice and set them on the table. Both Alex and his dad drank them quickly.

Did you want more? She asked them.

No, we’re fine. Besides, we really need to get going. I want to make sure we have plenty of time to get there. Are you ready, Alex?

As ready as I’m going to be.

Mr. Reed and Alex got up from the table. Mrs. Reed kissed her husband and watched as he headed towards the front door. She then gave Alex a kiss on the cheek. Good luck, Alex, a note of motherly worry started to creep into her voice.

Thanks, Mom. I’ll be fine.

Alex didn’t feel fine. He was more than just nervous now as the butterflies in stomach were telling him. He was still struggling to understand how he had failed earth biology. It really didn’t make sense to him. Though it wasn’t his favorite subject, he had done well in it all year.

He headed out the door, right behind his father. They walked down the street to the local shuttlebus terminal. The building was essentially a one room building with a large long counter and multiple computer terminals with docking stations. Near the terminals, there were several rows of seats. Being as early as is was, the building only had a couple of commuters there and two attendants.

Mr. Reed took out his video pad and docked it to one of the many stations there. Once docked, he was able to use the computer to check the shuttlebus schedule. He selected his destination and purchased two tickets.

Once the confirmation appeared on his pad, he undocked his pad and he and Alex went to the waiting area and sat down.

The shuttlebus we want should be here in a few minutes or so. It’ll take about an hour for us to get to the terminal near Walter Shannon’s office. It’s about a ten minute walk from the terminal to the office.

Good. I just hope everything’s on schedule.

Mr. Reed put his hand on Alex’s knee, Look Alex, I know you’re anxious about all this, but try not to think about it. Walter Shannon is one of the best attorneys there is. If anyone can help you, it’s him.

I suppose your right Dad, but I really can’t help it. As I told McKenna last night, I’m starting to really get scared.

Look, all Mr. Shannon is going to do is review your notice and grade cards and probably ask you a few questions. If it’s just an error as we think, we’ll get it corrected and we can forget this whole thing.

And if it’s not?

Did you fail that class?

No. At least I don’t think so.

Then stop worrying. At least wait until you talk to Mr. Shannon.

Well, I’ll try, but I can’t promise anything.

Then let’s talk about something else.

Alex thought about it for a minute, Like what?

Well, I don’t know. How about that girl I saw you with outside your school a couple of weeks ago. She seemed pretty friendly toward you.

Do you mean Zoey Harrison?

I don’t know. Is she the tall girl with the long red hair?

Yeah, that’s Zoey.

She’s cute. Have you known her long?

Dad!

What? I’m just curious.

She’s in my grade. We’ve known each other since we started school.

So are you two seeing each other?

No. We’re just friends; that’s all.

So you haven’t asked her out?

Dad! Seriously!

Easy Alex, I’m just kidding. Look, here comes our shuttlebus.

A long vehicle pulled up to the loading area outside. Alex had always thought they looked a bit strange like someone had taken a couple of air shuttles, squeezed them together and put them on wheels.

Alex and his dad got up and went out to the loading area where the shuttlebus had come to a stop. Alex looked around the station. No one else in the terminal had gotten up. He boarded the shuttlebus with his dad and they sat close to the front. Alex knew there would be a couple of stops in other parts of the city before they reached their destination and others may get on, but for now, except for the driver, they had the entire shuttlebus to themselves. With all the empty space on board, Alex was able to stretch out a little.

Once the shuttlebus started moving, Alex started wondering how disappointed his parents, or McKenna for that matter, would be in him if they couldn’t get this whole thing cleared up. He could see McKenna now, crying herself to sleep every night because she missed him or her coming home from school upset because the kids there started teasing her about how big of a loser her brother was.

His friends would probably think the same thing. He remembered a couple of years ago when one of their friends, a boy named Warren failed history two terms in a row and ended up being drafted. After Warren had left for training, all of Alex’s friends, Alex included, had called him all kinds of nasty names. Alex wished he hadn’t done that now and felt a bit ashamed of it, since he was now in the same predicament as Warren. He imagined that his friends would say the same thing about him if he didn’t return.

A penny for your thoughts, Mr. Reed said

Alex looked up. Huh?

A penny for your thoughts, Mr. Reed said again.

Sorry, I was just thinking about what everyone would think if I ended up in the military. How most of my friends would think I’m some kind of screw-up or loser or something.

Alex, you really are worried about all of this, aren’t you.

Yeah, Dad, I am. Wouldn’t you be?

In a reassuring voice, Mr. Reed said, First of all, you’re not a screw-up or a loser. Like I said before, this looks like a simple computer error. I really don’t know what else to say to you Alex except try to relax. If I could trade places with you, you know I would. Unfortunately, I can’t. The best I can do for you right now is what I’m doing, getting you help from Mr. Shannon and see if he can get this fixed.

I know, Dad.

Look, your Mom and I, as well as McKenna, will always love you no matter what happens and we’ll always be there for you. Is there anything I can do right now to help?

Not really, no. Well, maybe one thing.

And what’s that?

Well, could you tell me what a penny is? I’ve heard you say ‘a penny for your thoughts’ before, but I never really knew what a penny was.

Mr. Reed chuckled, Okay. Well, before the Great War when the Northern States of America was still two separate countries, the United States and Canada, a penny was a form of currency that was one one-hundredth of a dollar. A dollar pre-Great War is basically what a standard credit is today.

What would anyone need with one one-hundredth of a credit or dollar or whatever?

I don’t really know. I know that the dollar currency was used for four to five hundred years. Maybe back in the beginning, for some reason, they needed a partial dollar. Since most of the official records were lost in the Great War, we probably won’t ever know for sure.

Probably not, Alex said with a smile on his face, But regardless of why they were made, why would you want to give me one for my thoughts? They’re not all that great.

Mr. Reed laughed. Maybe not, but I’d bet I’d get my money’s worth.

Very funny, Dad.

Both Alex and his dad were laughing now.

Feel better now?

Yeah, a little bit.

See, you can relax if you just take your mind off things.

I guess you’re right.

Look, if you start to worry about things again, just take a deep breath and a take a moment or two and think about something else, like our talk about the penny or perhaps Zoey. You’ll feel better.

And if not?

Then think about something else for a moment like, you and McKenna laughing together. You two are always laughing at something, so I’m sure it won’t be hard to think of something.

Yeah, you’re probably right.

Alex looked out the window of the shuttlebus and started watching the surroundings pass by. There still weren’t very many people out and about and most of the buildings were still dark and quiet. As quiet as it was outside, it gave Alex an uneasy feeling, like the whole city had been deserted.

He closed his eyes and tried to picture McKenna at the museum, trying to take everything in as poor Ana tried to keep up with her. At that he started smiling again and the uneasy feeling faded quickly. His dad was right; thinking about something warm and funny like that did actually make him feel better.

Alex’s dad looked over to him Now what’s so funny?

Alex opened his eyes. I was just thinking about McKenna and Ana running all around the museum. I imagine Ana probably was having a time keeping up with McKenna. You know how she can get when she gets excited about something.

What about your mother trying to keep up with the pair of them?

I didn’t think about that. Poor Mom.

It could have been worse, you know.

How?

You could have been with them and then your mom would have had three of you to keep track of.

Alex laughed again. You’re right, Mom wouldn’t have survived.

The shuttlebus started slowing down. Alex could see they were approaching a terminal. This isn’t our stop, is it?

No, not this one. Actually our stop is the terminal that services the historical district.

You mean the stop for the museum? Alex asked the grin still on his face.

Now that you mention it, yes it is. Mr. Shannon’s office is in one of those historic buildings. From what I understand, the building has had law offices in it since it was built.

Really? Even during the Great War?

Before, during and after. I’m sure the number of lawyers and the types of law they practiced have changed through the years, and there may have been other types of offices there from time to time as well, but yes there has always been a lawyer in the building.

Before Alex could say anything else, the shuttlebus pulled into the terminal and stopped. They waited a few minutes. No one else had gotten on and soon the shuttlebus was moving again.

Once they were on their way, Alex spoke, What do you know about Mr. Shannon?

Well, Alex, I know he had been practicing law for about 25 years. He specialized in military law, especially when it comes to recruiting practices. Our firm refers almost all of our military cases to him. While he doesn’t win every case, he does have one of the highest win rates in the country, and that’s when the case actually goes to court. He also has had a large number of cases that are settled out of court for various reasons.

Like computer errors.

Exactly. That’s why I was glad when he said he would see us on such short notice. He’s one of the best out there and very busy. And like I told you already, if anyone can help you, he can.

I hope we have the right lawyer.

We do, Alex. We do.

Alex returned to watching the scenery. There were a few more people walking around now and with the sun coming up, the city didn’t look quite so eerie. Soon they arrived at the next terminal. As they waited at this stop, two people go on and went to the back of the shuttlebus.

They left the terminal and continued on. The next stop was the historical district terminal where Alex and his dad would be getting off. He took out his video pad and checked the time. It was only 6:20 and their stop was about fifteen to twenty minutes away. They were making great time. Alex guessed it had to do with the fact that it was so early and there wasn’t a large line of people getting on and off the shuttlebus.

Alex yawned. His eyes started to get heavy so he decided to close them for a moment. He opened them again when he felt something touch his shoulder.

Alex, wake up. We’re about to pull into the terminal.

We’re here already?

You fell asleep about fifteen minutes ago just after we left the last stop. I figured you could use the quick nap, so I didn’t disturb you until now.

Alex looked out the window and sure enough, the historical district terminal was rapidly approaching.

Once they arrived and the shuttlebus stopped. Alex and his dad got off.

Which way now? Alex asked.

The lawyer building is a short walk from here. I don’t know if anyone will be there quite this early. We’ll see when we get there.

They left the terminal and turned toward the heart of the historical district. Ten minutes later, they arrived at the building where Mr. Shannon had his office and went in. Mr. Shannon’s office was the first door on the right and the door was open.

They went in and over to the reception desk. There wasn’t anyone there at the moment.

Looks like were early, Alex. There are a couple of chairs in the corner. Why don’t you have a seat and I’ll go see if anyone’s in the office. Be right back.

Alex watched as his dad walked pass the reception desk and down the hall. A couple of minutes later, he returned and sat next to Alex. No one’s in yet. We’ll just have to wait for Mr. Shannon.

If there isn’t anyone here, why was the front door open?

Maybe, since he knew we were coming, he left it open in case we got here before he did.

I guess so, but it seems strange to leave it open all night.

"Maybe someone was working late and forgot to lock it. I don’t know. We can always ask Mr. Shannon when he