Aaron's Angels: Revelation Revealed in the Twenty-First Century

By Ken Kelly

Abaddon’s goal is to derail the carpenter’s prophecies and prove that he deserves his rightful place at the right hand of the Almighty. First, Abaddon must focus on four burgeoning hindrances: Aaron, the young Jew chosen by the carpenter to be placed on Archangel Michael’s protectorate list; Cindy, the precocious cheerleader who has appointed herself leader of the A-Team; James, the son of a war hero who aspires to emulate his father; and Chris, the rebellious son of Christian parents. They form an unbreakable bond. To triumph, Abaddon must destroy them or turn them into allies.

As the forces of good and evil do battle to influence the A-Team, you will embark on a journey with Aaron, Cindy, James and Chris as they mature into adulthood and begin an adventure that takes them face to face with the coming Antichrist in Aaron’s Angels, book one of a trilogy.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Oct 26, 2017
• ISBN: 9781512779059

Ken Kelly

Since being saved at nine years old, Ken has used whatever environment the Lord has placed him in as an opportunity to spread God’s Word. Ken has served as a youth director, elder, and Bible teacher throughout his adult life. In 1987 God called him to Biblical prophecy, and in 2007 he formed the foundation for a fiction book about Jesus’s second coming to help others understand the visions that the apostle John saw as he peered into the 21st century. Ken has been married to his best friend for over fifty years and has three sons, two daughters-in-law and four grandchildren.

Book preview

AARON’S

ANGELS

Revelation Revealed in the Twenty-First Century

KEN KELLY

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Copyright © 2017 Ken Kelly.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

WestBow Press

A Division of Thomas Nelson & Zondervan

1663 Liberty Drive

Bloomington, IN 47403

www.westbowpress.com

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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.

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.

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. [Biblica]

ISBN: 978-1-5127-7906-6 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-5127-7907-3 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-5127-7905-9 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2017903887

WestBow Press rev. date: 05/29/2019

CONTENTS

Preface

Introduction

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Postscript

For my family

PREFACE

For the last thirty years, God has called me to study his prophecies and the book of Revelation. My curiosity in what God foretells in the culminating years before his second coming and beyond has driven me to pray and to seek the truths hidden within the scriptures. What will happen to our world economy, governments, and global community that will facilitate a one-world ruler, a ruler that will be loved and admired by the majority, and how will he reach his pinnacle of power?

These questions—and the answers—have inspired me to teach the book of Revelation over the past many years. The difficulty in comprehending the hidden truths buried within this exceptional book was a compelling reason for me to write a fictional trilogy based on prophecy.

One of the great myths propagated within Christendom is that the book of Revelation is too complicated and controversial to understand. It has even been suggested by some to ignore the only book in the Bible that promises a blessing on those who read it, the book of Revelation. Therefore, to help alleviate this misconception, I have been led to write a trilogy to encourage Christians in their study and to inform non- Christians of what is to come in the future.

Aaron’s Angels takes you on an exciting journey that begins when four junior-highers meet under dire circumstances on a cold and windy Chicago morning and years later are insidiously drawn into the birth pangs of the end-time tribulation. Their trek is guided by the carpenter and archangels Michael and Gabriel but is undermined by Abaddon, General Raze, Colonel Odium, and their legions of demons.

There are far too many people to acknowledge here, but there are some who require a special thanks. Shawn and Jen Kelly gave me encouragement and made suggestions from the beginning of my quest. Judy Kelly, my lifelong best friend and wife, gave me great insight and an honest critique through many parts of the manuscript. And my review committee of Evi Pupp, Shawn Kelly, Tracy Beard, Cindy Del Buono, and Donna Stone kept me on the right track with suggestions that helped me produce a better reading.

I wish to acknowledge Marie Millard and Susan Gugliotta, who helped edit my book and whose suggestions and corrections proved invaluable, and I’d also like to offer a deep and respectful thank-you to Pastor Ron Hunt and Pastor Kevin Finkbiner of New Life Christian Fellowship in Petaluma, California, whose seventeen years of sermons helped me grow and develop in the Lord. Their insights into prophecy and the true nature of God were an inspiration.

I wish to thank Charlie Maloon, Dulcie Meyers, Jan and Ken Long, Gary and Julie Kelly, Dmitri Rusov-Morningstar, Rick and Kathy Johnson, Brandon Kelly, Ryan and Amanda Kelly, Randy and Amy Long, Mike Long, Jess Johnson, Don and Lynette Stone and Joe Del Buono for their continued prayers and encouragement throughout the writing process. A loving thanks to my parents, Colene and Don Kelly. I wish to acknowledge Gale Peck, graphic artist and owner of Iceberg Strategic Creative, for the book cover design.

Last but certainly not least, I thank the one who gave me the vision and calling to write the trilogy—Jesus, the true Christ!

INTRODUCTION

In AD 80–100, life was very simple, especially in the deserts of the Middle East. It was during this time in history that the book of Revelation was penned. The primary mode of transportation was by foot or donkey. The deserts were populated with scorpions, whose sting could be deadly, and the only beings that populated the sky were birds and flying insects. One of the greatest fears of the harvest season was the migrating swarms of locusts that could strip a field of its vegetation.

The wars of that age were fought with swords, spears, bows, slings, and battering rams. Soldiers entered into battle on foot. Only the wealthy officers rode on horses.

Take an individual with this limited knowledge of ancient warfare and thrust him into the twenty-first century. Now ask him to describe the horrific events in New York City on September 11, 2001. How would the disciple John have described it? His frame of reference was the environment in which he lived. Perhaps his response might have been, I witnessed two monoliths reaching into the heavens of our Lord. They lit up the sky like the sun, glittering like gold. Then I saw two giant eagles as large as the moon strike the towers. The sky burst into flames, and the massive temples imploded and crumbled to the ground, reduced to a pile of dust and rubble. The ash and smoke rose up from the pits of hell. The sky turned black, and none could breathe. Man cried out to the Lord.

John, Jesus Christ’s beloved disciple, was on the island of Patmos in the Aegean when he was instructed by God to write down the vision he was about to witness. How would John have described a nuclear explosion or an AH-IG Cobra helicopter with a canister of spray attached to the tail section or an ASU-57 Russian tank? John could only draw from his current knowledge and his current environment to put in writing his eyewitness of the future. He conveyed Christ’s second coming and beyond in what we call the book of Revelation.

The book of Revelation, known simply as Revelation, is the final book of the New Testament. It represents the completion of God’s Word. Revelation means apocalypse or the unveiling or disclosure. The following is a plausible story and result of what John well may have seen as he was given a glimpse into the redemption of mankind in the twenty-first century.

CHAPTER 1

Heaven was dreadful.

Sure, for most of the citizens it was joy and singing. They loved the impossible airy structures and that transcendent golden glow. But for the fallen angel, Colonel Odium, heaven was hell.

The incessant songs, the wide eyes and smiles everywhere he turned, all that infernal laughter that is nearly inescapable—it’s enough to make him want to abandon his mission entirely. He considered going AWOL more times than he could count, but he harbored a deep hunger for promotion, prestige, and power. It was too strong to ignore. After a millennia spent working his way up to colonel, he had no choice but to carry on.

So here he stood, wings tucked and head hooded, beneath Peter’s Bridge—the one place he had found where the singing felt distant and the light was slightly less blinding—as he waited for the general of the demons. He expected further orders for his spying assignment in heaven. He checked over his shoulder for the thousandth time and found that he was still alone, still unseen. All he needed now was for one of the starry- eyed Christers to spot him down here and ruin all of his hard work.

Odium heard footsteps and shrunk into what passed as a shadow in this miserably overlit paradise, but, luckily, it was the angel he had been waiting for.

General Raze stepped through the hazy radiance like a wavering desert mirage and stood before Odium. Taller than the average demonic angel, Raze towered above Odium. Though his wings dripped fire and ash, he stood spotless in his armor. His features were sharp as if chiseled from marble. His face exposed high cheekbones, thick lips, and a pointed nose as he peered out from loathing slits of yellow. His head gleamed with an unnatural light and had a bony disfiguration as if a crown sat snugly under the skin of his baldhead.

A callous General Raze positioned himself stoically in front of Colonel Odium, feet planted. With laser-piercing eyes invading the colonel’s soul, he deliberately crafted one word, Report.

Odium cowered back further into the shadow and bowed his head. He knew that any sign of disrespect or hesitation could land him back into the depth of the pit, demoting him to a lieutenant.

Gabriel, Michael, and the carpenter are planning something big. They’re putting the plan into action soon. I’ve had the pleasure, said Odium as he rolled his eyes in a way the general couldn’t see, "of watching and listening forever, and it looks like whatever it is, it’s starting to happen. They kept mentioning harvesting. I’m not quite sure what the final goal is."

General Raze narrowed his eyes and said with a hiss, Stay here. I’ll return soon.

Odium leaned back as his side touched the bridge piling, and he slid down into a sitting position. He once was a beautiful angel, his wings pristine white, with a face that shined brightly. He was shorter than most of the other angels, but he was strongly built. He had wanted to prove that he was a leader. None of his peers took him seriously, and he developed deep resentment toward them. On the other hand, Abaddon, an archangel of incredible beauty and power, seemed to appreciate Odium and his abilities. Since the Almighty had said that all of his creation have a free will, Odium had chosen to join Abaddon when he rebelled against the rule of heaven.

Odium and the rest of the rebelling force were disappointed when Abaddon, known as Satan on earth, and his close friends, namely archangels Michael and Gabriel, didn’t join them. The rebels were convinced that together they could have overthrown the reigning Almighty’s right hand. The demonic force referred to him as the carpenter.

The carpenter was—and still is—a loser, thought Odium. The Almighty sent him to earth to save the wretched humans from sin, and we managed to convince them to kill him. He expected to be received as their savior, but he chose to go to earth as a baby born in a lowly manger among the poor. He said he wanted to be introduced to mankind as a commoner who could relate to all walks of life. He grew up to be a carpenter. A carpenter! He could have been born into a ruler’s house and grown up to become a king. What a fool. Abaddon knows human nature better than anyone. He will take over the earth with power as a world leader and king. That is why I chose this wise one to be loyal to. He’ ll use that knowledge to overthrow the carpenter and have dominion over both heaven and earth.

As Odium continued to think and daydream, he reflected on his current position in Abaddon’s army. He had gained power over many of the subordinates who also rebelled, but Odium coveted a position equal to the general with confidence that one day they would rule over all realms.

Odium’s thoughts were interrupted as he heard the approach of Raze. He jumped to his feet and stood at attention.

Colonel Odium, General Raze said again with a hiss, I have an order from our master. Go to level six.

Hades, the pit? asked Odium as his eyes widened. What’d I do wrong?

Nothing. For centuries we’ve allowed you to continue your clandestine missions here in level seven. You will be joining us as we prepare to carry out Abaddon’s new plan. Now get to the pit and locate Major Avarice. Tell him that he’s released from his current duties. That should quell his greedy temperament. He’ll find this assignment more rewarding than the one where he influenced that level-three moron to murder his wife. She was too politically powerful for the master’s taste. I hate meddling little earthlings who try to derail the inevitable. Have him join us in level three.

You mean earth, right?

Yes, you idiot! Tell him that he’s to find a kid named Billy Lasco. He’ll possess Lasco and prepare him for our assignment.

So what do I tell Avarice about his task? Odium eagerly questioned. With a sneer, the general said, Odium, you’re an interfering twerp. You’d better learn to follow orders and not ask your superiors so many questions. Anyway, there’s this kid, Aaron Rubin, who we’re going to eliminate.

Oh, that sounds big. From the master himself? Does he know that you’re selecting me to give the death order? Odium inquired, snickering as his face lit up with an evil smile. There’s a definite reward with this, right? he enthusiastically blurted out, his head cocked to the left.

Raze’s eyes narrowed.

Odium lowered his voice to a whisper as he detected Raze’s contempt for him. What’d this Aaron do to upset the lord and master? Odium quickly asked with a hint of panic in his tone.

Odium tried to control his trembling voice.

Raze stepped back and frowned. "Not that it’s any of your business, but your mentioning of the harvest coincided with Choler’s report that he overheard the carpenter giving archangel Michael a directive to protect a certain chosen Jew."

Why? probed Odium.

Apparently, the Jew will play a significant role in the future. Our master wants him out of the picture before Michael moves this young earthling onto his protection list. Odium, emphasize to Avarice that if he wants to stay out of level six for a prolonged time, he’d better not fail.

Okay, boss, gotcha. I don’t have to stay in the pit, do I?

No, give Avarice his orders and get back here ASAP. Big things are in the air, and I need you, General Raze articulated with clandestine authority. We’ll join Avarice at the appointed time and help with Billy’s two cohorts. I’ll give Avarice his final order on level three.

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In his white robe and with glistening snow-white hair and feet of bronze, Jesus was communing with his two archangels, Michael and Gabriel, who were standing in front of their Lord in regal postures as superheroes may pose. Their armor glinted, reflecting the bright light of Jesus, causing them to appear as two bright moons orbiting the sun.

Michael’s features were strong, yet they had a gentle quality about them. His broad shoulders easily supported a brilliant breastplate, and when he flexed his chest, two enormous white wings sprouted from his back shoulders as if he was taking flight. His eyes were sky blue and were full of wisdom and virtue. Michael’s very presence commanded respect, yet it was obvious to the casual onlooker that his total dedication and fierce protectorate pose was for Jesus of Nazareth, now the visible heavenly Father, his Creator and Lord.

Gabriel stood tall, intent on hearing every word his Lord had to say. His hazel eyes danced with excitement yet appeared focused and determined. A trumpet adorned the belt of his flowing white robe, which covered his brilliant silver armor of war. It was obvious that he, too, worshiped his mentor and creator.

Jesus hesitated and tilted his head as if listening to a far-off conversation. They’re meeting again just as I knew they would.

Raze and Odium?

Yes, Michael. Now you both must hurry. Get to level three.

CHAPTER 2

Aaron had heard that Chicago was called the Windy City, and today’s weather brought new meaning to the word cold. The biting chill stung him to the bone, and Aaron was determined to get to a warm place as soon as possible. He slipped down an alleyway, a shortcut to his training, and a place to thaw out—the local Jewish temple. Aaron generally avoided dark alleys. As he had learned long ago, being confined in a narrow passageway was not smart. One of the reasons his father had moved him and his mother to Chicago was because some of his anti- Semitic classmates in New York City liked to use him as a punching bag. His father wanted him to be safe and to enter high school with a fresh start.

Aaron was of slight build and stood five-foot-five. Dark brown hair capped his dome and covered much of his high forehead. His facial features were pleasant—eyes that expressed intelligence and a face accentuated with a great smile. He had inherited his dad’s hooked nose, which bothered him at times. He was well spoken and had an outgoing personality.

As he proceeded down the alley, he was thinking about the two classmates that sat behind him in math class that morning and how they’d offered him money to lean to the left or right during the upcoming geometry test. Aaron was proud that he was skilled at math, especially since he was a freshman and had been allowed to skip the first two years of algebra. But the pride he felt changed to shame as he realized that he was being dishonest in helping them, so he tried to justify his behavior.

Aaron walked at a brisk pace as he thought about it. I’m no cheater, but what could I do? They’re a lot bigger than me and could beat me to a pulp if I challenge them. I can’t control what they do if I happen to lean one way or the other. Maybe I can make some new friends if I offer them free tutoring classes. I can’t help it if God graced me with common sense and an excellent brain. I like helping people, and they just may accept me. Aaron tried desperately to convince himself that he was not corrupt.

Oh, crud, I’d better get to studying, or Rabbi Cohen will kill me, he said out loud to no one in particular as he strode through the alley.

Aaron pulled his yarmulke out of his back pocket and pinned it to the crown of his head. He began to think of the verses he had to memorize from the Torah. He’d had his bar mitzvah eight months earlier, and being introduced into adulthood had been electrifying. Being a rabbi like his father didn’t interest him, and he had no intention of bringing the wrath of his papa down on his head. His dad insisted that he needed to have a good command of the Holy Book.

It is what it is. Besides, Cohen will be angry if I’m not ready today, Aaron thought with a sense of urgency. He reached into his shirt pocket and pulled out his memory verses. As he held them up, he turned and saw something out of the corner of his eye. It was Billy Lasco, the meanest bully in school, and he was entering the alley behind him. Aaron put the memory cards back into his pocket and started walking faster, but he didn’t dare run. He recalled that in his outdoor nature class the teacher had said, A certain way to get a bear or lion to attack is to run.

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That morning breakfast had been a glass of milk and a piece of toast. Billy’s dad fixed eggs some mornings, but this morning hadn’t been one of them. His dad was still passed out on the couch from last night’s binge on dope and good whiskey, so Billy’s mood was set for the day, just as Avarice had planned.

Avarice was eager to please. He was tired of level six and excited to take part in a new earthly assignment. When he had joined the rebellion in heaven, he was a beautiful angel, but his extended stay in level six had caused his body to morph into a hideous imp. The only way to move up in rank and power was to do the bidding of Abaddon and to keep the rest of his superiors happy. He was terrified of General Raze but could tolerate Colonel Odium. When he was seldom in the presence of Abaddon, he could barely utter a word out of fear.

Avarice was excited about his task. He bounced around the room, observing Billy all morning. His demonic friends had done a great number on Billy’s dad last night, and he knew that it would help set the stage to easily fulfill his mission. The colonel had taught him that hate is always intensified when a child has to deal with a neglectful and abusive parent. Avarice smiled as he, Colonel Odium, and General Raze easily pushed their way into Billy’s essence. The young bully was already possessed with a small army of demons who recognized the power of their three new companions and fled.

Following Aaron into the alley, Billy felt a shiver up his spine. He ignored it. Billy looked at his two friends and muttered, Guys, there’s that new Jew boy from school. Not having any close friends, Billy had managed to coerce some delinquents to join him in his small gang of thugs.

We hate Jews, right? Tommy announced with disdain as Colonel Odium made the transfer to Tommy. Tommy was weak in spirit and short on smarts, but he was a fierce fighter when the occasion arose. The colonel planned to use that to his advantage. Tommy was a good five- foot-nine and well-built with messy brown hair that matched the color of his eyes. He seldom brushed his teeth, and he often smoked cigarettes that he stole from his mom’s purse. That explained the yellow teeth.

Yep, advocated Billy, all the while smirking.

Let’s hurt him really bad, Jack chimed in. Jack ranked just a notch above Tommy in the intelligence department. He was much heavier than Tommy and not as agile. You might refer to him as portly if you dared. Jack had a fierce anger problem and a very short fuse. The three met as freshmen the previous year, and they liked to prey on smaller, defenseless targets. It was Avarice’s goal to make sure that Jack kept anything or anyone from interfering with Billy’s mission.

I have no intention of giving this Jew just a beating. I don’t think we should let him leave the alley, commanded Billy, punching his right fist into his left hand. Let’s leave him for the undertaker to carry out in a body bag, he sneered, laughing haughtily, surprised by his uncontrollable determination. "My old man told me that the Jews killed Jesus Christ, and the only good Jew is a dead Jew. He said the one bad part about ending Hitler’s reign in World War II was that he could’ve put more Jews in the ground where they belonged. Stupid shyster, Billy boasted, smiling to himself because shyster was a Jewish word. This is my lucky day. This idiot wandered right into a place where we can corner him. He’s about to experience the wrath of Billy, the great Jew hater, as we kick his rear end!"

You must accomplish our order. We must end his life, Billy heard someone say in his head. He didn’t know who we was, and he didn’t care. He just wanted to kill that Jew.

Okay, guys, this is what we’re gonna do. Jack, you move in front of the new kid.

Maybe it would be better if—

Billy’s evil eye stopped Jack’s comment midsentence. Billy didn’t appreciate anyone questioning his actions or his orders. Getting more than his share of browbeating and belittling at home from his dad, he didn’t need any from his gang.

Do it subtly, and slow way down, Billy said through clenched teeth, daring Jack to say another word. We’ll box him in. Tommy, you move to his side and keep him close to the brick building. I’ll come up from behind.

Tommy smiled and started to shuffle his feet. I’m getting cold. I need to start moving to warm up. Come on, Billy. It’s time to stop talkin’ and time to get punchin’ this little Jew.

Billy glared at Tommy. I’ll decide when and what we do, Tommy. My old man says to always go slow and let the prey understand what’s comin’.

Tommy knew better than to defy Billy. He’d seen him in action plenty of times. Billy wasn’t as tall as Tommy or as well built, but he was a boxer and fast as lightning. Tommy had seen the power of Billy’s punch on others and had no desire to feel a sledgehammer hit his chin. Every time Billy mentioned his dad, Tommy knew that the impending beating would go up a notch or two.

Billy turned to look at the back of Aaron’s head as he walked briskly down the alley. He hesitated for a moment to see if Tommy or Jack would start before he gave the order. They didn’t.

The colonel looked at Avarice. Then they both looked at General Raze. He nodded.

Billy motioned, Okay, let’s go. Move it!

Together, Billy, Tommy, and Jack advanced with stealth speed as if some mystical force were propelling them forward.

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Aaron didn’t know what to do. Looking both ways up and down the alley, he hoped to see someone who might hear his yells for help. He knew Billy had a reputation around school for being cruel and bigoted. As Aaron tried to move faster to reach the end of the alley and possible freedom, his mind began racing. He mumbled, Stupid, stupid, stupid.

You callin’ me stupid? Billy said.

No, I’m calling myself stupid, Aaron responded with a quivering voice as Billy forced him to stop.

Billy stuck his face within an inch of Aaron’s. Aaron gagged at Billy’s breathe. It was hot and stunk of foul milk.

You got that right, quipped Tommy, laughing delightfully.

Aaron realized that Billy wouldn’t allow him to continue. Finding himself being ushered deeper into the alley, his chest caved in. In that moment Aaron lamented the fact that he hadn’t followed his father’s suggestion to take karate lessons.

Aaron’s thoughts were rushing. If only I knew some moves, I could kick their rear ends. I’ll just stay cool. Dear God, please protect me. Please hear me, oh God!

As Jack moved to his left and Tommy moved in closer, the acid from Aaron’s stomach entered his esophagus. He was confused. Why are they doing this?

As they moved closer, Aaron turned quickly to face Billy. He pleaded, I don’t want any trouble. Just let me go to the temple. I’ll mind my own business. If I’ve offended you in any way, I’m sorry. You’re a nice guy. Aaron’s knees began to buckle beneath him as vomit began to rise into his throat.

Scowling, Billy reached up and ripped the yarmulke off Aaron’s head. Then he threw it on the ground as he glowered, Nice guy! Here we are—I’m in front of your ugly mug, your little beanie’s in the dirt, and there’s no one to protect the little Jew boy, Billy taunted as he turned to Tommy and Jack. When we finish with this Jew, we’ll go over to the temple and mess up that goofy guy, the one who runs the place and wears that funny hat with girly curls hanging down each side.

Yeah! Tommy and Jack yelled with excitement.

Witnessing the inevitable, Aaron tried to defuse the situation. Listen, we’re all the same. It doesn’t matter what one’s religion might be. We can still be friends. I can help all three of you with your homework at school. Just name the subject, and I’ll give you free tutoring. I’ll even do your homework assignments for a week. Aaron knew there was little conviction in his voice. Even he could hear his voice cracking with fear.

What? Do you think we’re dumb? Besides, I wouldn’t let someone who killed Jesus Christ touch my homework, Billy said and snarled.

Billy’s eyes terrified Aaron. They were empty, cold, and obsidian black, filled with hate.

Billy, don’t you know that Jesus was a Jew? Aaron said, challenging the bully.

You little idiot. You call Jesus a Jew? You’re an imbecile.

Aaron understood his dangerous situation was intensifying when Billy responded by pushing the middle of Aaron’s chest. Billy pushed him again.

Aaron didn’t fight back. He didn’t know what to do. It was three against one, and he was small and frail. Even with his smarts and cunning, he knew brains weren’t going to win this battle. Moving to his left, he ducked down, but Billy caught him with an uppercut. Aaron’s lip started to bleed, and blood dripped on Billy’s coat as Aaron’s head snapped back and fell forward.

Now look at what you did! Billy said. My old man’s gonna be mad at me for getting my new coat dirty.

Tears started running down Aaron’s cheeks as he saw Billy raise his fist up for a second blow. He mumbled through his swollen lip, B-billy, p-p-please, there’s no reason for you to do this. Ugh. The side of Aaron’s face hit the brick wall with the second blow, and the alley went white.

As Aaron fell forward, Billy stepped back, letting Aaron drop to the ground in a heap.

Feeling his consciousness returning, Aaron noticed Tommy shuffling his feet like a boxer as he danced around Aaron, punching at the air. Aaron instinctively moved and rolled into a fetal position. Tommy kicked him in the ribs. The pain was excruciating. Aaron was certain he heard a rib snap.

Billy grunted with a strange laugh and put his face close to Aaron’s. Forcing one eye open, Aaron looked up at Billy. For an instant he saw a strange demonic face looking down at him. The general had decided to show himself.

Aaron was sure that he was hallucinating.

Aaron fully understood that the bully wasn’t out to hurt him. He was out to end his life, and sheer terror set in. Aaron curled back up into a fetal position and started to pray. God, please send help!

Hey, I want some fun too, Jack said, complaining but then kicking Aaron in the tailbone. Avarice loved being in control and inflicting pain on human beings. He was convinced that all humans were weak and pathetic.

The pain shot up into Aaron’s head. Groaning, he rolled over onto his back, and Billy stepped on his wrist. This time there was no doubt. The bone snapped.

Aaron had never experienced such suffering. Resigned to the fact that he was about to die, he felt as if he were floating outside of his body and looking at the scene as three scumbags beat up someone else lying on the ground. Then Billy pulled out a switchblade, and Aaron watched as the knife sprang to life.

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Teeth chattering, Cindy gasped to no one in particular and said, Geesh, it’s freezing!

Cindy’s last name was Sparks. Some members of the cheerleading squad called her Sparky, but she hated it. Right now she wished she were able to spark a fire in a barrel or something, anything. Her teeth hurt. They kept chattering out of control, but she had to kill more time waiting for her two best friends who were at karate practice. Maybe I shouldn’t have abandoned the warmth of the gym, she wondered, bored out of her mind. After all, a person can watch one move performed only so many times. I should’ve put on Chris’s baggy uniform and showed him how to really fight. She smirked. Besides, the boys are just showoffs. I can’t stand the thought of seeing their smug smiles if I go back inside.

Chris had chided Cindy for her lack of patience. You have no discipline, Cindy. Maybe you should stop acting like watching us is killing you and go wait outside in the cold. James and Chris both laughed. They weren’t surprised when she exited the gym.

Now, as Cindy paced back and forth on the narrow, broken sidewalk outside the karate studio trying to keep warm, she thought about the pair. Chris O’Malley and James Lucas played on the freshman football team. Chris was a compassionate guy, probably too kind. He didn’t have the killer instinct like James. Chris was shorter at five-foot-seven, and James stood almost five-foot-ten. However, Chris didn’t have the natural abilities that James had. He made up for that by working twice as hard and with a determination that Cindy admired. Chris was a good wrestler, but he was mediocre at karate. Again, he was inferior to James.

James, on the other hand, was a force to be reckoned with in any sport. He was a terror on both the karate and wrestling mats, and even as a freshman, he was being told that the coaches might move him up to the varsity football team. He was working hard to achieve his first- degree black belt in karate, whereas Chris had just earned his brown belt. Cindy knew that the driving force behind James’s accomplishments was to one day serve his country just like