The World at War

By Pam Funke

The second book in the exciting The Apocalypse series.

Join General Alexander Ludlow as he continues on his mission to save the world. At least that is what he thinks that Operation Dark Angel is all about. He is however starting to suspect that this mission is not all that it's cracked up to be. The world is in complete chaos as major nations wage war on each other and the world is on the brink of World War III.

The Group is secretly continuing Operation Dark Angel with much success. Unknown to the rest of the world they are the ones who are behind the strange and devastating attacks on Israel and around the world. What is it that they are really after when they are supposed to be bringing peace to an out of control world?

Italian President Nicolaitanes Balac is steadily gaining political power and recognition. The entire world is watching this one man and wondering if he will be the one to save them from the chaotic spiral that the world is headed towards. Is he really who he appears to be or is he something more sinister? Can he save the world? Do we even want him to? Is this who mankind should rely on for help or will this be the worst mistake that mankind has ever made?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Pam Funke
• Release date: Sep 10, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301313402

Pam Funke

I am the proud grand-daughter of a pastor and have spent the majority of my life in the church. I love serving God and living a Christian life. I am a Christian author who enjoys writing many different things. My love of reading and writing led me to write for the enjoyment of others. Besides reading and writing, I enjoy photography, cooking, painting, drawing, scrap-booking and anything creative actually. I am the author of The Apocalypse Series.

Book preview

prologue

"So, he carried me away in the Spirit into the wilderness. And I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast which was full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. And on her forehead, a name was written: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH."

Revelation 17:3-5

Chapter One

OCTOBER 1, 2018

0800 HOURS

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA

The Stranger walked through the streets of the busy city. He watched the people’s chaotic behavior caused by the world’s current condition. He shook his head sadly as he knew things were about to get much worse and many, would still, not care.

"Now prophesy all these words against them and say to them: "The Lord will roar from on high; he will thunder from his holy dwelling and roar mightily against his land. He will shout like those who tread the grapes, shout against all who live on the earth. The tumult will resound to the ends of the earth, for the Lord will bring charges against the nations; he will bring judgment on all mankind and put the wicked to the sword," he said boldly to any who would listen.

No one seemed to care. He looked around once more and then, he was gone.

OCTOBER 1, 2018

0820 HOURS

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA

A humble man dressed in rags walked up to the steps of the UN building. The structure was currently hosting the new United World Religion (UWR). He did not know if anyone would pay him any mind, but he had an important message for the people if any would listen. He stood proudly on the top-most step and unfolded his sign for all to read.

Repent for the hour is at hand. Jesus came that you might have life and have it more abundantly. He is the doorway to the Kingdom of Heaven. Without Him, there is no hope. Seek ye first the Kingdom of God! He does not want anyone to succumb to the evil one.

God loves every one of us. For God so loved the world that He sent His only Begotten Son whosoever believeth in Him shall have everlasting life. He wants us to have eternal life with Him.

Despite being unable to speak because he was mute, he still had a powerful voice. He prayed that someone would listen. Unfortunately, people either glanced at him briefly or avoided him altogether. Do they not care? He sadly shook his head. He saw a man sneaking around the side of the building. He wondered who it was.

The Stranger walked around outside of the UN building. He looked up at the building of evil and spoke with a loud voice.

"Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, through the insincerity of liars, whose consciousness is seared, who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth."

The humble man smiled as he listened to The Stranger speak; his message was empowering. He watched as he walked down the stairs and disappeared. Where did he go?

He saw a police cruiser coming up the street, and quickly folded up his sign and left. He would find another place to share his voice.

Chapter Two

OCTOBER 1, 2018

1100 HOURS

FORT STELLAR, GEORGIA

Nicolaitanes Balac turned the television off and sat back in his chair thoughtfully. He had just finished watching the news report with his mother. He was incredibly pleased as everything was going according to his plans. He liked it when a plan came together without issues. The next couple of phases would be the most important. If all went according to plan, he would soon be in control of the entire world. He smiled at this. If only they knew what this was all about, what I am after. He laughed maniacally.

Rosalind Carey laid her hand on his shoulder. He jumped slightly. She stood smiling down at him.

You have done very well, my son. In due time you will come into your purpose here, I am so proud of you.

Thank you, Rosalind.

He was proud of himself. He was accomplishing everything that he set out to do. Yes, this is definitely my time.

They will turn to me for help, and they will worship me and choose me over you! You will see….they do not want you. You love them, yet they still don’t choose you. Why do you love these humans?

Rosalind stood silently staring at her son. What sort of craziness is this? Who is he ranting to? She knew who her son was supposed to be but in the back of her human mind, she had doubts.

He looked up to the heavens. There was no answer, but he did not expect there to be. He would have been surprised if The Master had spoken to him. He smiled as he stared out at the world.

It was at the beginning of a war, and he would be there waiting for just the right time and opportunity for what lay ahead for him.

OCTOBER 1, 2018

1115 HOURS

FORT STELLAR, GEORGIA

The Stranger stood outside staring up at Nicolaitanes, who was boldly standing in the window. For he knew who Nicolaitanes truly was and hoped to call him out for what he was. The Stranger knew the man would trick the people and many would fall for it; this greatly saddened him.

"And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see. And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow, and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer. And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see. And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword. And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse, and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine. And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see. And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

Woe to the inhabiters of the land and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time," he declared boldly and was gone.

Chapter Three

OCTOBER 1, 2018

1800 HOURS

ROME, ITALY

All around the earth, people were clinging to their television sets. Afraid if they turned them on, they would hear about another missile strike taking out yet another civilization abroad or worse, one in their own backyard. Or afraid that if they didn’t turn the television on, they would surely miss something important. They did not know what to make of the latest news report. All this talk about war lately, had the people falling apart.

The inhabitants of the earth were terrified by the events going on. No one knew who was attacking which country with the new missile warfare making it difficult to even suspect or guess who could be next? How can nations defend themselves against an unknown and formidable foe? It would be like trying to catch an invisible man—nearly impossible. What were they to do?

The Stranger’s heart was extremely heavy as he walked the earth. He knew what was about to happen to the inhabitants of the land and he was saddened by it but joyous at the same time. Distraught because he knew the hurt, sadness, turmoil, and deaths of those who would never get a chance to live with the Father and the pain that it would cause their families and friends. Jubilant because at the end the Lion of Judah would be returning for the people who persevered until the very end. What a happy reunion that would be.

He knew the love of many would wax cold during these times. They would care for only themselves. He sauntered through various villages, towns, and cities throughout the world and then he was gone.

Chapter Four

OCTOBER 1, 2018

1940 HOURS

SOMEWHERE IN IRAN

The Iranian Alliance, a large terrorist group, based out of Iran, had sleeper cells within the United States. They had infiltrated into the country nearly fifteen years ago, right after the bombings of September 11th. They never knew when they might have the opportunity to use them when they sent them in, but now seemed like that very day. Iran was thoroughly convinced that the United States, better known as The Great Satan, was responsible for the war-like state the world was currently in. If something weren’t done soon that the Americans would invade and take over their land as they had tried to do with Afghanistan, Iraq, Sudan, Pakistan, and Israel.

This Islamic group believed this with every fiber of their being. They thought nothing good could come out of the United States no matter what the Americans kept promising. It was time to take matters into their own hands. Across the United States, phones began to ring as the IA called to activate sleepers across the nation.

OCTOBER 2, 2018

0740 HOURS

DALLAS, TEXAS

Malik Hassad looked at his cell phone. It was the first time it had ever rung since his family had moved to the United States fifteen years ago. His father had given the sacred phone to him three years ago on his deathbed. He had died of pancreatic cancer, leaving behind his wife, Anahita, and four sons Malik, Kahveh, Abdi, and Ali. The family had been devastated and even now had moments of desolation. The phone was the only treasure he had of his father’s. He was the man of the house now, being the eldest son. Albeit he was only sixteen years old, he was very mature for his age. Kahveh was fourteen years old, Abdi ten years old, and little Ali was only seven years old. He sat there staring at the phone in his hand for a few minutes.

Hello?

He listened as the voice on the other end of the phone gave him instructions before hanging up. He knew he would have to tell his mother that it was time. It is going to break her heart. Maybe he could somehow leave his younger siblings out of it, but he did not think so. He wondered what caused the sudden need to enact the mission. He watched as his brothers played basketball in the yard. How they love this American game.

What the heck, it can wait!

He tossed the cell phone onto the hard-plastic chair before going and joining his brothers. I can’t believe we are playing basketball for the last time. The cell phone rang again, and he sighed as he walked over to the chair. He flipped it open and listened to the message. He frowned heavily upon realizing he would be unable to leave his brothers out of this. He gathered them together and told them about the incredible adventure they were going on that very evening.

World Terror

chapter one

DECEMBER 2, 2018

1615 HOURS

SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA

Adolph Christophe, Sergei, and Anya Petrov turned to watch the latest newscast. Anya was amused by the chaos their little charade had caused. Adolph, on the other hand, had been most impressed. He could not believe Sergei’s people had caused numerous countries to attack one another based on the assumption that they were being attacked by their allies. It was all based on a lie. What is wrong with people? They didn’t even check to verify the targets had been destroyed before retaliating. Incredibly stupid people—gotta love them. This is way too easy; how many others will react this way?

The missiles had been virtually fabricated to appear as tangible objects attacking a target. Only the retaliated missiles were real. He could see why Nicolaitanes had chosen these Russians for the project, although he had no idea what else they had been entrusted to do. Perhaps, it was best he didn’t know. They were a little too shady for his taste, though he did kind of like Miss Anya. He walked a little closer to the television as another broadcast began.

"I am standing here in Jerusalem, where only moments ago the country was attacked by the United Kingdom. We are unsure why they have declared war on their ally. Prime Minister Olmert has gone underground with members of Parliament in an attempt to keep the country’s government intact unlike that of the US.

The death toll between Beersheba and Tiberias is steadily climbing with a total of 540 confirmed dead. More than 1200 more are wounded. Unfortunately for the injured, medical teams are too afraid to venture out into the impact zones for fear of contracting the deadly disease, BTX19, as what happened with earlier attacks on Israel, thus forcing the wounded to help each other.

In other parts of the world, I have been informed of similar attacks today, but no one knows why. The United States has attacked Iraq and Canada. The UK has attacked China. France has attacked the United States, Japan, and the UK. Japan has attacked France and Turkey.

Why have all these allies suddenly turned against one another is beyond me? There’s no reasoning behind any of this madness. The entire world is waiting for answers. And, if this weren’t bad enough, the rest of the world is choosing sides. This could potentially lead to another global war.

For those of you in the affected areas, I pray God keeps you safe. Lord knows we all need prayer. I will keep you updated as I learn more. This is Gage Cameron, ICNN news."

What did we tell you, Adolph? Are you satisfied with the technology? Now, do you understand why you are here? Sergei asked.

Yes, I am most impressed. I see what attracted Nicolaitanes to you. You are guys are brilliant.

He walked around the room, glad Sergei and the others were on their side. He would hate to be an enemy of Sergei’s people. He suddenly turned toward Anya as an idea popped into his head.

Hey, with that program, can we make it appear to the world as though all of this chaos was orchestrated by the Christians?

Anya looked puzzled. She turned questioningly to her father who just shrugged.

I do not know what purpose that would serve, but it is doable.

Adolph smiled.

Good, then do it.

She again looked at her father for approval.

Okay.

Sergei nodded to one of the others. Adolph smiled; life was good. Now, all he had to do was report in and return to base. Anya led them back up into the house.

Is there a phone around here that I may use? I have to make a call, Adolph asked.

Anya looked afraid; she did not trust him or any outsiders for that matter.

Why do you need use of the phone? she asked sternly.

I have to report back to Nicolaitanes if you must know.

The nerve of that woman. He glared at her.

Sergei nodded to his daughter then turned and stepped back inside the elevator. She watched the elevator descend out of sight before returning her attention to Adolph. She led him to a phone in the foyer.

Here, you can use that phone. Please don’t to be talking long. International calls are expensive.

I won’t be long.

She walked out of sight. He waited until she was out of earshot before making his phone call.

Hello? Yes, it’s me, Adolph. No, no, I am still in Russia. Yes, I think that I have done all I can do here. Anya and Sergei have been most helpful, Rosalind. Am I finished now as I would like to return home? I don’t wish to but if you insist. Fine, I will stay here.

Anya didn’t hear much of the conversation though she wished she had been able to listen to what was being said on the other end. She sighed. Looks like he’s to be staying with us for a while longer. I’m not to be liking this much but what can I do? She glanced at her watch and noticed it was time for her father’s afternoon tea. She hurried to the kitchen to prepare it.

I wonder why they want him to stay. Nicolaitanes must have reason for him to remain here. What could be reason? I must discuss this with father.

Adolph hung up the phone and walked down the foyer toward the stairway. He nearly knocked Anya over as he turned the corner causing her to drop the tray she was carrying. The teapot and cups shattered as they hit the floor.

I am terribly sorry. Are you okay?

He helped her pick up the broken pieces.

Thank you, she said politely. What a clumsy fool. She sighed. Did you need something? I have to make Sergei his afternoon tea.

He looked irritated.

I just wanted to tell you that Nicolaitanes wants me to stay here with you and your father a little while longer.

Anya raised her eyebrows questioningly.

For what purpose?

I do not know yet. I hope that I am not imposing on you.

It does not matter, does it? It is what Nicolaitanes wants. Yes?

I suppose you’re right. I will let you get on with your work then.

He walked away disappointed. Although she got on his last nerve with her pompous behavior, he had a slight crush on her. He hoped to have a little chat with her and perhaps a moonlit walk out in the garden. Oh well, maybe another time.

Anya watched him walk away. I still do not trust him. She returned to the kitchen to make another pot of tea for her father. She was very troubled by his news; did Nicolaitanes no longer trust them?

Adolph walked back down the hallway. I don’t trust these people. There’s something about this place; they have too much power. Why does Nicolaitanes want me to stay here? What more can I possibly do here? I’ve completed my mission here.

chapter two

DECEMBER 1, 2018

0615 HOURS

SAFE HOUSE SOMEWHERE IN THE US

Eliza Lawrence turned the television off. She could not believe they were harboring a fugitive in the safe house. Not only that, but the woman was responsible for the deaths of her family.

Mom. Dad, she said sadly with tears streaming down her face.

She couldn’t deal with this. She threw a book across the room which hit the wall with a bang before falling to the floor. Everyone stopped what they were doing and stared at her. They knew to stay out of her way when she was angry—besides who could blame her? They had all seen the broadcast.

She picked up the phone and called the number she’d written down from the newscast. A woman answered the line.

Yes?

I know where the woman from the news is, Eliza whispered.

Who?

The woman wanted for the bombings of New York City and Washington D.C.

Oh yes. Where did you see her?

Before I tell you, when do I get the money?

As soon as she is apprehended the reward will be given to you in cash.

No, do you think that I am stupid? I want $50,000 now, and the rest upon her capture, or I won’t tell you anything.

Fine, I will transfer the funds into your account at the end of this call. What is your bank information?

She gave it to her. Her heart began to beat fast as though she were doing something bad. Beads of sweat covered her palms.

Okay. She’s in our safe house located at 1066 Chestnut Drive. She’s currently confined underground in a storage room. When are you coming?

She gave further instructions and directions to the safe house. Now, she was blind to the fact that she was putting everyone at the safe house in imminent danger!

How do you know that it’s her?

She described Serenity to her.

Yes, that’s most certainly the woman we are looking for. We have someone en route to apprehend her. Thank you for your cooperation in getting this dangerous predator off the streets!

Eliza hung up and went to find her friends; they had a lot to do before those people came.

The woman smiled, We’ve finally found her.

The man in the room grinned from ear to ear.

What are you waiting for? Send Andrew and Tara after her, he said.

She picked up the phone and made the call.

Germaine sat at the kitchen table trying to comfort and convince his friend.

Look, Meredith, I’m fine. I did not get hurt. Not a single scratch or a hair out of place.

He stood up and spread out his arms while turning around and around. He then smiled as he sat back down. She just looked at him half convinced.

Are you sure they didn’t somehow follow you here?

"No, my dear. There is absolutely no way they could have. I followed them into the hotel and watched them check into their rooms for the night. They were still in their rooms when I left. No one followed me—I promise."

He took both of her hands and patted them reassuringly. She looked up at him.

We’ve got so much to protect here. Are you positive about this?

Yes, I am sure! Now, will you quit worrying already? It’s all in God’s hands.

She got up and walked over to the window. She looked up and down the street for anything unusual. She didn’t see anything out of the ordinary. She crossed her arms and turned around.

Think Germaine. How do you suppose they found you in the first place? Huh?

Frankly, I have been wondering that myself, he admitted.

He scratched the side of his head as he walked back and forth across the kitchen. He turned to face her.

I haven’t been able to figure it out. We have been extra cautious.

Well, there’s only one way to find out. You need to ask Katy, Ezekiel, and Serenity about it. We should figure it out now rather than after we’ve been captured!

He sighed, I suppose you are right.

He squeezed her shoulder and kissed her cheek. She smiled at him. He stood behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist while resting his head upon her shoulder. She freed herself from his clutches.

Well, go on!

She shooed him down the stairs. His heart warmed when she smiled at him. He did not care about her weight problem or how she looked either; it had always been about the warm, sweet person that she was on the inside. She had a heart of gold. He cared for her more than he was permitted to.

He walked down the stairs. Is it possible that Katy was careless? I don’t think so. Could it be that Ezekiel or Serenity had let it slip? That seems more logical. But who and why? He quietly walked down to Katy’s room first. He wanted to talk to her first. He knocked softly on the door.

Who is it? Katy asked as she peered out of the door. Upon seeing him, she threw her arms around her friend.

Germaine, what are you doing here? Is everything okay? What’s wrong? It’s so good to see you.

Katy. Katy, one thing at a time. I’m okay, and it’s good to see you too. Is there somewhere that we can talk?

Yeah, sure. Just let me put my robe on.

She glanced over her shoulder at Serenity as she grabbed her robe.

What is it, Katy? Who’s at the door? Serenity asked groggily.

Nothing dear. Go back to sleep.

Uh-huh.

She hated telling her that, but she still did not entirely trust her, besides, she wasn’t sure what it was Germaine wanted. Serenity rolled over and closed her eyes. She knew Katy would tell her if it were something important.

Katy quietly closed the door and joined Germaine out in the hallway.

Let’s go sit in the living room. No one is up at this time of night.

She led the way. He helped her into a chair and sat down on the sofa across from her. He sat quietly for a moment staring at the floor.

Alright Germaine, spill it. What’s wrong?

He looked up and told her all about his adventures earlier in the day and his close call with the man and woman. Katy was beyond perplexed.

Now what?

Katy, I have to ask you this. Is there any way that you accidentally let it slip and told someone about hiding Serenity or about my involvement?

She sat there thinking for a moment.

No Germaine, I am certain that I have not told anyone about any of this. I’ve only spoken to God about it all.

He scrunched up his nose in thought. He then rubbed his eyes.

How well do you know Ezekiel and Serenity? Do you trust them? Would either of them have done this?

She was quiet for a long time. He raised an eyebrow at her.

Well?

"I have, to be honest