Twisted

By Miranda Leek

What happens to amusement park rides once they are put into storage or destroyed? They are magically transported to a place known as Amusement Park Between, a park that coexists within any other and is only accessible by those who are of its blood. There are no limits and no humans. The only residents are the rides. However, they are much different from our kind. Amusement Park Betweens rides are alive, having both the characteristics of man and beast. Amusement Park Between was once merry and joyous, but for the past several years, it has spiraled into turmoil. An evil tyrant known as Ironwheel has taken control, casting a dark shadow over Amusement Park Between, his evil intentions endangering both their world and our own. The rides only hope is the key to their prophecy: the red will defeat the black. That particular key is the only ride that was created differently: Railrunner, the red roller coaster. This is his story.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Jul 14, 2014
• ISBN: 9781496921277

Miranda Leek

Miranda Leek is a twenty-two-year-old self-taught illustrator who studied at Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. Her work is based mostly on the fantasy genre, and Twisted is the result of a dream made into reality. To view more of her work please visit www.mirandasmagic.com or society6.com/Miranda Leek Like Twisted on Facebook: www.facebook.com/twistedrollercoaster

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© 2014 Miranda Leek. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 07/10/2014

ISBN: 978-1-4969-2128-4 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4969-2127-7 (e)

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Part One Rise of the Red

Imprisoned

Chapter 1 New Job

Chapter 2 Among the Rails

Chapter 3 Haunting Secret

Chapter 4 Unleashed

Chapter 5 As the Night Rolls On

Chapter 6 The Next Morning

Behind Iron Bars

Chapter 7 Callous Facts

Chapter 8 Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

Chapter 9 Rampage

Chapter 10 Why?

Chapter 11 Monster in Disguise

Chapter 12 Investigations

Chapter 13 Incarcerated

Chapter 14 Caged Bird

Chapter 15 Taking Flight

Chapter 16 Robbery

Chapter 17 Agony

Chapter 18 Final Rush

Part Two The Land of Wonder and War

Dangerous Waters

Chapter 19 Witch

Chapter 20 Moonlit Conversation

Chapter 21 Crook

Chapter 22 Foundation

Chapter 23 Temple of the Red

Chapter 24 Training Train

Chapter 25 Hidden Secrets

Chapter 26 Duel and Decision

Chapter 27 Daring Move

Dangerous Waters

Chapter 28 Tempers Flare and Fizzle

Chapter 29 Ferris Harbor

Chapter 30 Water Hazard

Chapter 31 Ultimatum

Part Three Bloodlust

The Line of Fire

Chapter 32 Defunct Den

Chapter 33 The Seize

Chapter 34 Declaration

Chapter 35 Aggravation

Chapter 36 Arena

Chapter 37 Confrontation

Chapter 38 Checkmate

Chapter 39 Nightmares

Chapter 40 Not Right for the Taking

In the Line of Fire

Chapter 41 Judgment

Chapter 42 Secrets in Solitude

Chapter 43 Arise

Chapter 44 Night Scare

Chapter 45 Strategies

Chapter 46 In the Dead of Night

Chapter 47 Apocalypse

Chapter 48 Twisted Truth

Chapter 49 Eruption

Part Four Adrenaline Rush

Fatal Attraction

Chapter 50 Reunion

Chapter 51 The Alliance

Chapter 52 Unexpected

Chapter 53 Shift

Chapter 54 Demands

Chapter 55 Firm Warning

Chapter 56 Fire and Ice

Chapter 57 No Trespassing

Chapter 58 Risky Business

Chapter 59 Moon Dance

Fatal Attraction

Chapter 60 Calling Cards

Chapter 61 The Fun Begins

Chapter 62 Proportionate

Chapter 63 Ruler of the Rails

Chapter 64 Closure

About the Author

About the Book

For my mom, dad, and my little sister, Stitch,

for always keeping the ride entertaining

And for the roller coasters giving me the inspiration

Twisted:

1: To turn so as to face in another direction

2: To alter the normal aspect of; contort

Part One

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Rise of the Red

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Imprisoned

Pacing back and forth from corner to corner like a caged bird wishing to be released, his mind was furious as his footsteps echoed across the iron floor. His fire-like eyes burned with rage, and thoughts flooded through his brain as his dam of security cracked.

Why! Why me! The words screamed inside his head, hammering against his skull. His frame shook and vibrated with the rage of an unbridled bull. His lips peeled back as he snarled in frustration. He abruptly shook his head from side to side, trying to overcome the continuing thoughts, ones that sickened and poisoned him, bringing him closer to the breaking point.

If I had never met that man … If I had never tried to work there! If I never would have …

He banged his head against the bars and roared with pure rage. He tried not to think, to fight his inner demons, but his will to not do so failed.

Trapped in this prison! His mind wept. Because of my undoing! Where I am from! Because of what I am!

+     +     +

Chapter 1

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New Job

"This is just great!" I slapped a handful of bills onto the table. All those unwanted slips of paper kept piling up—bills from the electric company, water company, and numerous creditors. Everything seemed to be spiraling into a bottomless pit as the miserable minutes ticked by, forcing me to lose myself in a sea of misery that looked as if it would never dry out.

I glared down in an undeniable mixture of pain and frustration at the many papers that bore a red stamp reading past due. All had shifted right after I was fired from my engineering job at the local cake factory. My boss, an uptight and unkind man who had a close relationship with brandy and scotch, called me to his office to tell me those four damning words: Rodney Philips, you’re fired! It turned out that I was never convicted of any transgression; the factory had gone bankrupt, making everyone instantly unemployed. Now every ex-employee was hopelessly looking for work, myself included.

I sat at my kitchen table drinking a cup of coffee and eating my usual morning breakfast of sausage and eggs, scanning the newspaper for work—now a daily routine that I had been practicing for the past few weeks. It was a desperate thing that I had never imagined myself doing, previously earning approximately seventy thousand a year. But then the road to success became blocked by a downward-spiraling economy. As I took a sip of coffee, I studied the newspaper in front of me, looking for anything that would bring a bit of money to my pocket. Every listing was either lousy pay or simply not what I had in mind. I knew I wanted something that I could relate to well, a job that I would be comfortable doing for a long time.

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As I took another taste of coffee, letting the hot elixir slither down my throat, my eyes caught sight of an ad that I hadn’t previously seen. I scrutinized every printed word.

Wanted!

Mystic Park

Roller Coaster Engineer

Call 789-6450

Ask for Woody

I found myself blinking in disbelief and awe. Roller coasters—I knew so much about them. I had never actually ridden one, but I knew more than most who were lovingly known as coaster junkies. I acquired all the information I had from books, television, and the Internet. The strange thing was that I always seemed to have an odd attraction to them, a peculiar fascination for something that was both terrifying and artfully beautiful. I couldn’t explain why. Deep in my mind, however, I knew this could be my big break. It would probably be a long shot, but I was in no state to wait much longer for any sort of income.

I got up from my seat and grabbed my phone from the counter, calling the number in the ad. There was no turning back now. The phone rang repeatedly in what seemed like a never-ending and maddening tune. I was just about to hang up when finally someone answered.

Hello, this is Woody. How may I help you? The man had a deep, scruffy, and aged voice. He sounded out of breath, almost as if he had been running laps or on a treadmill.

Yes, my name is Rodney Philips, and I—

Would like to try out for the position of coaster engineer. Am I correct? he interrupted. It was a sign that he was used to this, and knowing that he hadn’t found anyone to fit the bill, this man would be tough to impress.

Yes, sir, I said simply into the receiver, afraid that he would cut in again.

Ever worked on roller coasters before, sir? he queried, his words quick and sharp, stern as a courtroom judge. The man was either in a hurry or he was a no-nonsense kind of guy.

I decided to lie like a trained actor trying out for a part in a major movie. Yes, I said professionally. I’ve got some experience, I finished, holding my breath. There then was a slight but impacting pause.

Then be at Mystic Park around four this afternoon. I will test you on how capable you are at doing the job. See you then, Rodney, he concluded, just as unyielding as he started, and then he hung up.

At first I didn’t know what to think, but then I realized that I had a chance. I would go through with it. My eyes instinctively flashed to the clock. I had a few hours to prepare. I couldn’t be late; I was already in a deep hole, with little chance of escaping. I couldn’t fall any deeper.

When the time came, after spending several hours brushing up on the topic, I grabbed my keys from the hook on the kitchen wall and entered the garage. I pressed the red button on the panel in the dusty corner to open the door. I climbed into my Mustang, which I thankfully had paid off, and started the engine. I immediately switched the radio on and turned it to my favorite station, blasting the song that was currently playing as sort of a way to gain confidence. I then put on my pair of sunglasses, shifted the car into gear, exited the garage, and drove off.

The long, paved street soon snaked deep into the woods. Sunlight blanketed the canopy of trees, showering my black car in dappled light. I sat calmly in my seat, listening to music as I steered the sports car along the sheltered roads of Huntersville, a quiet town in which nothing bad ever happened. Huntersville got its name from the lush woods that surrounded it; the forest was a gold mine for those who desired big game. However, the small community finally got on the map when Mystic Park was built, making the undetectable city not only for hunters but thrill-seekers as well. I had tried to make my way to the summer escape before, but I was robbed of that due to the countless hours I spent at the factory, which was clearly a waste of time in the end. Now I was to finally go to Huntersville’s playground because of an invitation and a reason to be there.

The song that was playing faded into an untraceable silence as it ended. I reached down to swap stations, for I hated listening to commercials that were useless and that just rambled on and on about medical procedures to make one look better. My fingers continued to fiddle with the dial, turning it this way and that as I was trying to catch a good tune. I came across a song that I had not heard since I could remember. I settled on it and then turned my attention back to the outstretched road, which was void of any passersby. Suddenly, a large buck darted blindly from the thicket of trees. It was clearly frightened beyond reason. I slammed on the brakes, the car’s wheels screaming as the deer traveled inches from the Mustang’s hood. The sports car screeched to a halt, the squealing tires echoing throughout the woods. The deer then rushed past and was swallowed into the forest again.

I blinked my eyes briefly, trying to comprehend the dreamlike sequence that had just transpired. Deer were usually never known to come out of hiding during broad daylight. During the many times I had hunted with acquaintances, I had never seen a creature look as spooked as a man with a gun to his face. I looked to where it had emerged to see a slight rustle of bushes. The forest then grew quiet. Hopefully nothing else bizarre would happen, but then again, one could never predict the future.

Soon I pulled up to the secluded park. The grounds were littered with rides and stands, brightening the area with an array of colors. I looked down for a split second as I took the key from the ignition and then focused my attention back on the rides, which sat waiting for their riders like dogs waiting to be fed. It was then that my eyes caught sight of the granddaddies, the kings of the rides: the roller coasters. The scream machine’s rails towered over all that stood. They were as grand as castles, with their shadows stretching far over the footpaths to peek at those staring upward with curiosity. As I was looking at a steel coaster in awe, a cold shiver went down my spine and the hair stood up on the back of my neck. A strange stinging sensation ran through my body. Startled, I climbed out of the car. I had never felt something like that before.

Probably nothing. Perhaps that’s what an adrenaline rush feels like. I chuckled after a brief moment of thinking. I quickly put it behind me as I walked through the great iron gates, walking into an opportunity of a lifetime.

My eyes scanned the grounds; it was obvious that Mystic Park was on its off season; there was no one around except for a few park employees. The park had been cleaned and tidied in preparation for the coming season. As I walked, my muscles contracted, feeling a little sturdier than before. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw two park employees who couldn’t take their eyes off me. They looked like they were in their midtwenties. The girl had long, silky red hair, with a skinny but boyish figure. The boy had brown hair that was combed into a small, spiked Mohawk. As I walked away, I noticed that they exchanged whispers.

Taking a few steps forward, I then realized that I had no clue where I was to go, and not knowing the park, perhaps it was best to question the two employees. However, before I could turn, an old man with long white hair pulled into a low ponytail and a small, unkempt beard and mustache advanced toward me. The sun’s rays seemed to make his unnatural white hair glow as he adjusted the collar of his cream shirt, which was covered in an almost Renaissance-looking vest. He began to smile slightly as he casually stuck one hand into the pocket of his brown trousers. He then held out his smooth hand as a gesture for me to shake it, and I accepted his greeting.

I’m Woody, and you must be Rodney. Am I right? he said in his low voice, keeping a slight cunning smirk on his face.

Yep, the one and only, I replied, still examining him. Woody didn’t look like your ordinary older man. In fact, his body possessed the build of a thirty-year-old. Every aspect about him that was visible was … perfect. He clearly was the type who favored keeping himself healthy and in shape. Perhaps he was taking a run earlier. Suddenly, he leaned closer, putting me on high alert, as I knew he was probably about to speak of something very important.

You are a one and only indeed, he said in a low but serious tone, his eyes staring into mine so intensely that he seemed to be searching my soul. I simply nodded when he finally motioned for me to come into the main office, but one thing hit me, standing out above everything else. His eyes, I thought, looked almost unhuman.

Chapter 2

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Among the Rails

Woody led me down the hall to an office that was as plain as the interior of a hospital, with an occasional plaque of achievement or picture on the wall. Inside were three other men sitting on chairs. The coaster engineer motioned with a wave of his hand for me to join them. I took my seat, noticing him avert his gaze quickly. There’s something weird about him, something beyond explanation, I thought. Then Woody left the room and began to talk to someone down the hallway, his words impossible to make out. Hesitating, I turned to the man sitting next to me. Perhaps it wasn’t just my suspicions and imagination.

Did you notice anything weird about him? I hastily asked a regular Joe who looked as down on his luck as I was.

No, not really, he replied, his cigarette-tainted breath hitting me.

Did you look at his eyes? I questioned, trying not to gag.

What about them?

I hesitated, still not believing that I was going to say something so ludicrous. They look like a … cat’s!

He stared at me as if I should be placed in an asylum, and then he scooted toward the other edge of his chair, away from me. Was I the only one that could see what his eyes looked like? Was he wearing some sort of crazy contacts? Maybe. However, now was not the time to speculate. I had to keep focused and not let anything distract me.

Woody returned to the room. He looked briefly at me, and his creature-like eyes flashed me a sense of uncertainty. Could he have possibly heard what I had said? Then he turned and pulled up a chair in front of us, his ice blue eyes looking at everyone in anticipation.

Gentlemen, he started with a cunning smirk, today I am going to do a simple but effective test on you. It will be very difficult for the inexperienced coaster engineer. It’s the only thing I’m going to judge you on, so if you can’t do it, you’re done. If you struggle, you’re done. I’ll test you one at a time. For most of you, roller coaster walking will be a living hell. Your legs will be sorer than the day after running a marathon. But for one of you, it will not. Woody looked at me, flashing a sly grin.

He then guided one of the men out of the room. The few remaining sat quietly talking to each other with the exception of myself. Suddenly, a small rippling pain shot across my back. Then it went through my arms and legs. My skin tingled, and my knuckles turned white. The sensation was uncomfortable. I bit my lip and released a soft hiss of pain.

You all right? a burly man asked, bringing myself to the attention of the others.

I’m fine, I muttered as I saw all the men’s eyes on me. One of them even turned to the hopeful next to him, likely to whisper a suspicion. I swallowed back a large lump in my throat. That had never happened before. After this is done, I hope I don’t have to see a doctor, I thought.

Hours went by. One by one, the men left, none of them receiving the job. That didn’t mean it was automatically mine. If he was dissatisfied with all of us, he could just run the ad again.

Woody came through the door. Your turn, he announced, waving me out. I nodded and warily followed him from the building and back into the park. My body started to act inexplicable again, and my heart started to beat faster. As we got closer to the coaster, it began to hammer in my chest. It went from its rhythmic thump to an absurd machine-gun-like metronome. My nerves were on edge; then again, perhaps this was what anticipation felt like.

We began our climb up the stairs of the steel coaster’s station, a large and flashy building that served as a dwelling for the beast itself. My muscles seemed as if they were bulging out of my legs and ready to burst through my skin at any moment. I had never felt expectation like this before. Something was definitely iniquitous or playing mind games. However, despite my suffering, I had to go on; I had to have this job!

The two of us finally reached the heart of the station, the area that actually housed the roller coaster itself, the heart of this man-made monster. In awe, my eyes danced along the sleek blue train that reflected any source of light. It was amazing to see a grand creation such as this in person; the many photos just did no justice. Without warning, a larger jolt of pain ran down my back, feeling like an aftershock from a baseball bat hitting me in the spine or like a hard blow from an alley thug. I quickly hunched over and clutched my back, my nails digging into my shirt as I ground my teeth in agony, my other hand grasping the queue rail in a stronghold, forgetting to not look suspicious.

What’s wrong? Woody asked, turning around swiftly. His voice seemed to silence all life around us.

I don’t know. This all started … This will sound really weird and preposterous. I paused, looking at the old engineer, who seemed to be as still as a stone in his stance. I felt this as soon as I saw your steel coaster. As I forced out the words, I expected him to let out a lighthearted chuckle.

However, Woody looked at me with no expression. For a long moment, he did nothing but stare at my face, watching a bead of sweat trickle down my brow. Unexpectedly, he raised a thick eyebrow and looked around briefly for any signs that someone could be listening. Woody let out a great sigh and smiled weakly.

Walk with me, Rodney; I’ll explain to you what’s going on, he began as he headed out onto the track.

As quickly as it came, the pain receded. I had no choice but to follow him. As we cautiously ascended the lift hill, stepping only on the stairs that lined the track, my skin tingled and my muscles pumped. Climbing the rails was turning out to be easy. It almost felt natural. I soon caught up with Woody. I actually felt … formidable.

Let me ask you a few questions, Rodney. Woody spoke sternly as he stared straight ahead at the horizon with his hands in his pockets, not looking at me once. Do you feel different walking among the rails?

Yeah, I feel stronger, I admitted after several long moments of contemplating.

Invincible? Woody pressed on, his eyes still fixed ahead.

I bit my lip fretfully. Yes, if you wish put it that way.

Let me ask you this: do you feel the urge to protect, the urge to fight?

I blinked in disbelief. Where on earth was he heading? Perhaps he was the crazy one. Yes, that had to be it. Or maybe he was giving me some sort of test. Then again, what happened earlier with the sudden pain? My body felt that it was progressing into something unknown.

I do, I answered at last.

Woody let out another deep sigh, seeming almost nervous. Rodney, you are the only person that I would consider for this job.

At his words, I had to hold back a snicker. Was he serious? Why? I haven’t even completed my test yet, I replied, befuddled at his behavior.

Woody suddenly let his smirk come back to view on his face. He gave me a mischievous slap on my shoulder. I watched as he then walked forward and, to my surprise, starting jogging down the lift. For a second, I watched in amazement at his nimbleness before following him. I walked at first but then found myself running. How was I able to do this! Soon we were neck and neck.

Rodney, you will soon learn that you and I have much more in common than you think, he said as we entered a tunnel in the most secluded part of the circuit.

We stopped. My eyes glared at the old man in question. Maybe there was something wrong with me. Woody, would you please tell me what’s going on?

Chapter 3

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Haunting Secret

All seemed quiet except for the chirping of birds up in the canopy’s leaves. The air seemed intense but eerie. In the tunnel, it felt as if we were the only two people in the world. Woody leaned against the channel wall and crossed his arms. He averted his eyes from mine, suddenly seeming less confident and more tense. I watched as his teeth bit his lip and his icy and strange eyes hardened with solemnity. Woody then cleared his throat and spoke austerely.

You’d better listen up because I’m not going to repeat myself. I’m afraid this could be hard to swallow for you, Rodney. He finished softly—almost gently.

I found myself in disbelief once again. This was no longer odd, it was downright uncomfortable. Understood, I uttered, still unsure of what Woody was thinking in his seemingly twisted mind. Whatever it was, it was demanding to be disclosed.

Woody dithered, looking down as if trying to count every stitch in his shoe. Rodney, have you ever heard the story of Amusement Park Between?

No, I replied. Even from researching parks and coasters for many years, I had never come across the term.

Woody bit his lip and nodded. Well, it’s quite the story. It’s not very well known to the ears of the public—and for damn good reason. Amusement Park Between lies within any amusement park … but within another dimension. It is inaccessible by humans. It only caters as an afterlife for rides that have been permanently put into storage or destroyed. However, these rides are no longer hunks of lifeless metal, Rodney. They have evolved into bio-mechanical living monsters having both the characteristics of man and beast. Woody said these words slowly, his icy eyes like steel and his long white hair draping over his shoulders like a spider web that was heavy with dew.

Is this a myth you park employees tell yourselves to pass the time? I smiled. Maybe Woody liked me well enough to accept me as one of the park’s own. Could this be a strange initiation?

However, the engineer’s eyes hardened further at my query. No. This is much more than a story, Rodney, especially for you and me. Are you aware that you were orphaned?

My heart skipped a beat. How could he have known that decades ago I was left on the steps as a baby? Did this stranger know the rest of my past? Yes, but … how could someone like you know that? I articulated, the words slowly leaking from my mouth.

Well, like I said, this is going to be hard to swallow. Just try not to choke on what I’m about to tell you, Woody continued sympathetically.

Still in a state of utter confusion about his knowledge, I nodded respectfully. Perhaps this man was an old acquaintance of my real mother. Then again, why was he bringing up this peculiar bedtime story?

All right. After I finish my story, I’ll explain just how I know who you are. As I was saying, the rides of Between are beasts. However, they are civilized enough that their lifestyle is identical to man’s. In fact, they are much smarter. Between was a beautiful and peaceful place until an evil tyrant known as Ironwheel slaughtered its king and took over Between, casting a dark and hopeless shadow full of nothing but desolation. Due to poor treatment in his previous life, Ironwheel’s mission is to enslave humans as well as his own kind in nothing but pure revenge. Decades go by, and Between’s wholesome citizens’ only comfort is a prophecy that the red will defeat the black, which has not yet been fulfilled.

I found myself biting my lip once again. I really just wanted to blurt out that I’d rather not hear his silly story but hear instead about how in the world he knew me. Okay … so what does your story have to do with me, Woody?

He shrugged his shoulders and gave another sigh. As I said, this story has everything to do with you and me, Rodney. You see … Woody paused, his eyes looking to the floor briefly and then shooting back deep into my pupils, giving me a full view of his unnatural catlike eyes. They were a hard icy blue, and their pupils were indeed a predatory slit that was blacker than a deep abyss. I wanted to question if he was wearing contacts, but rudeness wasn’t an option. You and I aren’t exactly … human.

I felt my brow furrow. What did I just hear? Was I even hearing right? Woody had to be insane. W-what? I stammered, chuckling a little. What in the hell—

Listen! Woody cut in, his voice suddenly sharp. I know you are not going to believe this, but it is true. Amusement Park Between isn’t a story. It’s real. I’ve known you all your life … Railrunner.

My palm went to my forehead and then glided through my black hair. This conversation had officially gotten on a completely new level of weird. Railrunner? Are you serious? You must be playing mind games with me. My name is Rodney Philips. I’m just a humble engineer, I joshed.

Woody rolled his eyes in slight annoyance. No, your name is Railrunner, and I am Thunderbark. I’ve been looking for you for years. I knew it was you when you could see my eyes as they truly are … and I can see yours. They are amber and burn like wildfire. I know this is hard for you to understand, but all of this is the reason you can’t remember much of your past. You and I, plus my two allies at the gate you noticed earlier, escaped Between and landed here. Your true form, your natural state, has been dormant for decades, hidden by the light of the sun. It is time for it to be activated again—

Woody! I shouted. Please … just stop. I then spoke more softly. The joke is over. You can laugh now. I’d had enough of his gag.

The older man hung his head in defeat. Amazing, he said solemnly. You have no idea exactly who you are.

My face grew hot, but I released a cooling breath. He was the hard-coated type—and most likely a loon. He was taking his prank a bit too far, going the extra miles included. Woody, can you please cut it out? I politely demanded. Can we just conclude the test?

The brusque man crossed his arms in defiance. You’ve already passed my test; it was done before you even sat down in the waiting room. I just brought you here to tell you the news privately. Please accept it, Railrunner. You are of Between’s blood.

No, no, I’m not. I chortled lightly, moving forward a bit to stare straight into his face. I’m really getting tired—

Unexpectedly, I found myself in a free fall; my foot had slipped on the walkway lining the rails. A jolt ran through my jaw as it hit the cold steel rail. It felt worse than being blindsided by a sucker punch. Before I could get another breath, the rest of me fell onto the steel track piece in a heap, hard enough to leave a serious bruise. Damn it, I grunted, but before I could get my footing, a great pain sliced across my spine. The discomfort should have stopped long after my fall. My body grew hot as an inferno and then as cold as ice as the pain spread deep into my tendons. I released a moan in agony as the vast aching grew greater, rattling even my bones. Beads of sweat formed on my skin, which was littered with bumps. And abruptly it all stopped; things were calmer than an undisturbed pond. God damn! I gasped, trying to sit up. To my surprise, a familiar sound hit my ears: Woody letting out a nervous chuckle.

Well, you did part of my job for me, he uttered, smiling feebly.

What the hell are you talking about? I retorted.

Woody sighed and rubbed his scruffy chin. You just activated your form … a bit too early. The delusional engineer’s anxious face suddenly morphed into perhaps the hardest and most serious that I had ever laid eyes on. You best be staying away tonight.

Whatever, I grumbled, struggling to get back up, only wanting to retreat to the comfort of my normal life.

Heed my words, Woody said sternly. By the way, you got the job. See you in the morning, Railrunner.

Chapter 4

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Unleashed

I lifted my newly opened cold beer to my lips, savoring the flavor. It was just what I needed—a way to relieve the stress and anxiety, a small escape from the day. I was forcing myself not to believe what Woody had said. It was stupid and illogical, but what happened to me as I fell onto the rails? More importantly, how did he even know me? Was his story true or was the raging pain a freak accident and he was just pulling my leg? Whatever had occurred made me now realize that my coworker was completely demented.

I was now sitting in a local bar called Snook’s, one of the most frequented in Huntersville. A small joint, it had stood many years in the less populated part of town. Snook’s was a popular place with single men coming home from stressful work and a few best buds looking for a night out to catch up on things. I had frequented the bar on many occasions. Tonight, having agreed prior that my two old factory coworkers and I would meet for old times’ sake, they were currently playing blackjack across from me. Buddy was a jolly and heavyset man with neatly fixed blond hair that he dyed every once in a while to keep the gray from showing. He let out a bellowing laugh and slapped a card onto the oak table, making Sly, the man next to him, snicker. Sly was a wiry, energetic little man and one of those people who never seemed to be brought down by anything. The two had been hardly talking about personal matters; instead, they conducted a card game from the moment each took his seat. I just kept to my thoughts and indulged on beer and scotch.

Rodney, when did you get your tattoos and your eyebrow pierced? Sly articulated as he laid a card onto the table.

Coming back from the depths of my mind, I looked at the dragon wrapped around my left arm and the tribal symbol on the other. Then I felt my piercing. It was funny. The tribal tattoo was the result of a drunken night out, but after realizing that I was fond of it, my mind convinced me to add to the blank canvas.

It was about four weeks ago.

Hmm. Looks good on you. He nodded. You’re a good-looking tough guy, so it suits you.

I gave a smile in return and took another sip of my beer, only to realize that it was now empty. I sighed in disgust and placed the bottle back onto the menacing smiley face coaster. A frown came to my face. I could go for more, and I needed to forget. I observed quietly as Buddy and Sly continued their card game and drank their beers, watching the condensation on the bottle slowly glide down the smooth edge. It was strangely intriguing yet calming. My eyes continued to dance around the bar, staring at every man and woman—watching them swallow their food or alcohol. Something about the movement of their thyroids was enthralling.

So, Rodney, Buddy began, cutting off my train of thought, any luck finding a job?

Yeah, I got one today, I uttered, trying to watch for any advancing waitress to ask for more beer, the thought of Woody coming back to my mind. The two smiled, Sly even giving a clap of congratulations.

That’s wonderful, Rodney, Buddy said. I have yet to find work. So … what is it?

Before I could utter a word, a tattooed young server, no older than twenty-two, approached our table with a genuine smile on her face. How are you gentlemen doing this evening? More drinks for you? she asked in a Southern accent, her heavily mascaraed eyes batting playfully.

I’ll take another beer and two shots, I emitted in an almost unfriendly tone. For a moment, the server looked at me, appearing dumbfounded. Buddy and Sly even took a glance at me.

Sir, the girl began as she retrieved my empty bottle, do you realize how much you’ve had to drink tonight?

Please. I placed two large bills on the table, emergency money from the depths of my wallet. I’d just like some more, I insisted, almost growling. The waitress continued to stand in her place.

But you’ve had several beers and a few shots, she warned, her fingers slowly pulling the bills away discreetly.

I don’t care, I rumbled. But then I realized how rude I was being. Please … I’ve had a rough day. The girl reluctantly nodded and walked away. A sigh of relief escaped me. I ran my hand over my brow but then realized that my two friends were staring at me.

Are you all right, man? Buddy asked, stopping their game of cards, his eyes lit with concern.

Fine, I insisted, watching them hesitate for a moment.

Ah, all right, Sly began. Well, so what’s this job? He smiled as he thumbed through his deck.

Well …, I began, watching the server return with my beer and shots. I nodded my thanks and quickly grabbed one of the shot glasses, downing it in one gulp, not even flinching. I’m the new roller coaster engineer at Mystic Park.

For a moment, the two were clearly speechless, watching me down the second shot. That’s nice, Rodney, although I pictured you doing something different, Buddy said as he placed a few cards into play.

I blinked in surprise. Was he degrading me? What’s wrong with being a roller coaster engineer? I demanded, his words hitting a nerve.

He hesitated. Eh, I know you have a love of machines and all, but you just seem like the kind of person to work on motorcycles or cars, to be honest.

My face grew warmer, agitated. I popped the cap from my beer and lifted it to my lips, keeping my eyes hooked on the two, watching as Sly swallowed nervously.

Damn, Rodney. Since you’ve been here, and I’ve been counting, you’ve had ten beers, and two bottles of scotch. I’ve never really seen you drink this much, man. He sniggered. You must be possessed! Plainly in awe, Sly beamed.

I placed my beer on the coaster again. I was drinking a lot—much more than I ever had. Oddly, I didn’t feel any effects of the alcohol … yet. I guess I’m more thirsty and stressed than usual. I laughed lightly. I must have a high capacity.

The hell you do! Buddy bellowed. Now, as I was saying before, you just don’t seem the part.

I have no idea what you mean, I replied, my face growing hot again. He only continued his rash chuckling.

Yes, well, for one, you would have a reputation… and not necessarily a good one.

Buddy continued, each of his words sparking my anger. I swallowed back a wad of saliva, suddenly feeling a wave of heat and lightheadedness. Perhaps I had spoken too soon about the alcohol. Instinctively, I pulled on the collar of my shirt, feeling sweat bead up along my neck. And what kind of reputation do you think I’d receive? I sneered, eyes narrowing.

Immaturity, he said simply. I mean, the only people who work at amusement parks are teenagers who’ve just gotten their licenses to drive. Also, if something ever goes wrong, your ass is to blame.

I wiped the sweat from my brow and let out a harsh breath. So you think I’ll do a shitty job? I’d spoken loudly, gathering some attention from a nearby counter. My fingernails dug into the table, feeling heated.

Buddy shook his head. No, Rodney, you’re an amazing engineer. I’m just looking out for you. He smiled sympathetically. Rodney … Buddy paused, seeming to be analyzing. You look red. Are you sure you’re feeling okay?

Just dandy, I insisted, taking another swig of beer to convince him, ignoring another wave of heat. Now, Buddy, as you were saying?

He kept quiet, seeming confused by my cocky reply. Sly glanced from my face to Buddy’s, looking just as stunned as he was.

Well, personally, Sly said as he took a sip of his only beer that he had ordered that evening, I hate roller coasters. I wouldn’t want to work on them.

Are you chicken, Sly? The words had blurted from my mouth. The two again looked shocked.

Rodney, I think you’ve had enough drinks tonight, said Buddy.

My breath grew harsher as I stared at the two with a hardened gaze. They had to be envious! I shook my head in disapproval. You guys seem jealous of the fact that I’ve got a job and you have yet to find one. I spoke confidently, feeling a flaming hot sensation sneak through my body.

Like I said, you should have been a car mechanic. Buddy chuckled, ignoring my anger.

Sly nodded his head in agreement. Yeah, you’re no roller coaster engineer. He snickered along with Buddy.

My blood boiled. The two were just jealous, ignorant fools. They continued with their cackling laughter, even taking their beers in hand and toasting in agreement. I clenched my teeth and grasped my legs, feeling my muscles tighten in resentment. The two were so …

Ha! Oh, Rodney! You know we’re just kidding—

Suddenly, there was a hard pop as the beer bottles that the two held instantaneously combusted, shards of glass imbedding deep into the flesh of their hands. Blood and alcohol rained onto the oak table as the two men cried in agony. I stood in surprise as my mind abandoned its vile thoughts and was able to register what had just transpired. Spectators rushed over to see what was amiss. It was mass chaos as people rushed in to stabilize the two men’s hands and dial 911.

What happened! the server who had previously taken my order hastily questioned, bringing over a first-aid kit, her mascara-lined eyes wide with fright.

I blinked, feeling dazed. I … I don’t know, I uttered, watching her return to the aid of Buddy and Sly. My eyes rested on their bloody hands once again. It flowed like a river, quickly dripping onto their clothes and the green carpet, staining everything red. My tongue glided across my lips. It looked luscious.

Unexpectedly, a surge of biliousness coursed all through my body, making me stumble against a neighboring booth.

Are you okay? another waitress queried, trying to help me up. I groaned, ignoring her as I struggled to get my footing. Then pain sliced through my stomach, urging me to bolt to the restrooms at the back of the bar. I flung open the door to the men’s room, a bland room with white-and-green tile, which could use a cleaning and an update. Knowing it was entirely empty, I rushed into a stall, closed the door, and hunched over the toilet. One hand clutched my stomach, and the other held the brim of the toilet in a stronghold. My breath heaved in my chest, heart hammering. Sweat dripped from my body as I prepared to vomit. I shut my eyes, just wanting to be in my own world. A minute ticked by, and a great wave of weakness forced me to slide back onto the floor. Feeling abysmal, I curled into a tight ball and whimpered. My hands clutched my throbbing head. Realizing that the bathroom floor of the men’s room wasn’t the most sanitary place, I opened my eyes and tried to get back to my feet. I had to compose myself.

As best as I could, I stood and opened the stall door, still thankful that no one had entered the restroom. Seeing that it was vacant, I stooped over a sink and began to splash the coldest possible water onto my face. I gulped. The ice-cold water felt good on my clammy skin. I leaned further still feeling dizzy. For a moment, I watched the water drip from my hair and pour from the faucet, only for it to vanish down the drain. Then my eyes caught something that made my heart skip a beat.

Weary, I peered into the mirror at my reflection. I paid no attention to my sweaty face and damp hair but rather my skin. It had taken on a red shade, looking like a terrible sunburn. My skin wasn’t only redder but smoother. It was pore-free. Stranger still, the water wasn’t absorbed by my skin. It beaded up like dew. I tilted my hand, watching the water run into the sink.

What? I uttered. I then rubbed my hand across my arm. However, to my horror, a thin layer of skin peeled off, hair and all. Underneath it was an even darker shade of red. Alarmed, I hurriedly washed it down the sink, praying that no one would enter the restroom. I turned my attention back to the mirror, only to spot something even more dismaying. I edged closer to the reflective glass, seeing that my eyes were no longer hazel. The irises had become an amber-like shade. What was going on? My heart hammered faster.

A searing pain shot across my back, forcing a cry of agony. I fell against the mirror, my nails tearing into the tile wall. My body shook, muscles contracted, and my blood was on fire. I forced myself to walk, leaning on every available object. My bones groaned as I forced myself out of a side door in the men’s room that led to Snook’s back lot. My mind flooded with thoughts. What was happening to me! This was no effect of alcohol or an allergic reaction.

I staggered toward my car, the lone vehicle in the back lot. I had to drive myself to the emergency room, but what in the hell was even happening! A sense of hope came to me as my hands met the Mustang’s door. My sweaty palms went for the handle, only to discover that it was locked. Uttering profanity, I dug in my pockets for my keys, but they weren’t there. To my dismay, the keys were in the ignition.

I fell to my knees in defeat and turned. Perhaps there was someone around with a cell phone … but no. The lot was empty. There was nothing but the moon.

Pain sliced through my body. I felt hot as fire and then cold as ice. I screamed, doubling over on the asphalt. My fingers singed. Pain raced down my back. My skin turned red as blood, and my head throbbed. A tremendous force grew from the core of my body, an explosion of power. A beast was fighting to break free from its prison. My muscles bulged and rolled beneath my skin, rippling violently. I wailed in agony, watching in horror as my body behaved as if were going through an exorcism. Snap! My bones broke, and my joints cracked. My clothes began to tear at the seams thread by thread, making me realize that I was getting bigger. Another scream ripped from my throat as my fingers bent backward at impossible angles. They then fused together, forming three digits, and my hand grew in size. My fingers’ nerve endings burned; the tips grew bigger and rounder, making … wheels.

It can’t be! I finally realized that Woody’s tall tale wasn’t a story! Amusement Park Between was real! His name was Thunderbark, and mine …

My body grew larger, my jeans fell to my ankles, and my shirt was reduced to shreds. Vibrating and rumbling, my shoulders shook aggressively as a line of tall black seats with restraints sprouted parallel to my spine. My jaw popped out of its socket, pushing forward along with my nose as my face formed a wide aerodynamic snout. I grew longer, larger, stronger. I was Railrunner—a roller coaster.

My eyes burned like fire, and my senses heightened. My teeth grew sharper and bigger than steak knives. Faster and faster … My mind was chaos as the morph continued. I tried to recollects faces, facts, anything. Burning anger, fury, rage.

+     +     +

When the final details occurred and the transformation was complete, Railrunner fell to the ground in exhaustion. Inhaling and exhaling heavily, his breathing was voracious. His metal was red as blood, seats black as night, and his eyes burned like fire. The red roller coaster was grand, deadly, and twice the size of an unliving scream machine. However, Railrunner was also flesh. His skeleton was steel but with blood and a beating heart. He had the eyes of a predator, a nose like