The Invincible Dragon Fire

By Mark Sunday

As the prophecies from the Bible and other works come to pass, learn what powers manifest themselves in each battle the colonies fight. In the Invincible Dragon Fire, we learn the polygamous colonies formed by the United Nations from around the world are gathered in Denmark. Commanders Mark Sontag and John Livingston are to create for God a mortal army. Their challenge is to train the women of the colonies to fight. Mark orders equipment that will spare their lives. They receive weapons from two sources. They leave Europe when God orders them to go to another part of the world.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Jan 15, 2022
• ISBN: 9781098057466

Book preview

Chapter 1

It was quiet in the cabin of the plane. Mark, with his blue eyes closed, began pondering.

I wonder what’s on the UN’s mind, sending us to Denmark. They gave me no indications of their intentions. Why Denmark? What is so special about that country? And why are they promoting me and John? Do they think they will need generals? They ordered us to build their polygamous colony. I’m hoping in peace, but something seems to be amiss here. I’m getting an uneasy feeling. I wonder what’s going to happen to us.

Susan, bless her heart, has been on an emotional roller-coaster ride ever since we started this polygamy thing. I wonder what will happen when I have to take yet another wife. Will the poor woman have to go through the same hell she went through when I married Barbe in Saudi Arabia? The two of them have been my support through the last six years. I can’t help but love them both. But what concerns me is, what are we getting ourselves into? I hope I get some answers when we get to Denmark. I wonder how the Danes will accept us. That should be interesting. Here we are, a polygamous colony, going to a European country, that’s a good one. What’s bothering me most is, why are they promoting us to general?

Mark was sitting next to his two wives, Susan and Barbe. Several other women were sitting nearby.

Susan asked, I wonder what it will be like in Denmark.

Mark’s eyes remained closed as he answered, I have no idea. They probably will go into shock when they find out we practice polygamy. They may tell us we’re not welcome and to go somewhere else. Debbie couldn’t remember a thing about the base. So I guess we wait and see what we get when we get there. I hope for your and Barbe’s sake, it has a hospital.

I hope we have a house to go to. I don’t think I could live in a tent this winter, mon chèrie, Barbe said.

A group of unmarried women sitting around the colonel and his wives began discussing what they might find at the new base.

I think we will have houses. I can’t imagine them moving us to a base we would have to fix up, Darlene said.

Well, knowing the situation around the world, I wouldn’t put it past them to accept it as is, just to get us moved, Mark replied.

They wouldn’t do that, would they? Katrina asked.

Let’s not worry about the base, ladies. Let’s just wait and see what happens, Mark said as he sat up and opened his eyes.

I be a-hopin’ it is nice. The winters this far north can a-get mighty cold, Coleen said in her Irish dialect.

I believe we will have a nice warm building to live in. I am looking forward to this move, Wendy said.

I agree with Coleen. It does get cold where we are going. But knowing my people, they will have the base ready for you when you get there. So relax, it will be nice, Sonya said.

There you go, ladies. You heard it from the woman that knows. I’m glad I’m the one bringing you back to your home, Mark said, looking over at Sonya. Then he slouched and closed his eyes again.

The planes flew onward toward Germany and Europe, over the Mediterranean Sea. The captain of the plane asked to see Mark.

Sir, we have an engine that doesn’t sound too good. We have decided to land in Frankfurt. Do you want the other passenger planes to land with us?

What seems to be the trouble?

It’s missing every once in a while. It could be minor, or it could stall out and leave us flying with one engine. I’m hoping it’s minor and nothing serious.

Then you better contact the other planes to land in Germany. I would rather us all arrive at the base in Denmark at the same time than be split up hours apart, Mark said.

Then I shall let the other pilots know what we have to do. Pray this baby keeps flying.

Mark returned to his two wives and told them they were going to make a short visit to Germany before going on.

The passenger planes set down on the runway of the Frankfurt airport and taxi to the terminal.

The pilot came back and said to Mark, We made it. We are going to refuel and check out that engine miss, sir. We need to have your people leave the plane during the refueling.

How long will we be here?

Figure on about an hour. The engine problem may be nothing serious, but we have had them flame out on us before. To be sure, we better have a look at it. We’ll announce when we are ready to resume the flight. The pilot turned and walked back toward the front of the plane.

Mark looked over at Susan and Barbe, then at the other women in the plane, and said, Let’s go inside, ladies. It looks like we will be here for a while.

One of the women named Katrina was beside herself. She asked Mark if she could call her parents.

You bet. I’ll get you some change when we get inside. How long has it been since you have seen your parents?

I have been away five and a half years now. They will be surprised to hear from me. I have written to them as soon as I could to let them know I am still alive, Katrina said.

I’m glad to hear that.

When Mark stood, he was taller than his wives at six feet one. He bent as he set about helping his wives begin to disembark. They moved slowly toward the door. The other planes were unloading also as the fuel trucks rushed toward them.

Inside the terminal, Mark looked around. He noticed the terminal had just been under attack. Large sections of wall were being repaired, and the debris was piled in a corner of the room. The only food available was from vendors with vending carts along the inner wall. As a place to rest, a German beer garden was set up near the center of the terminal. Mark and his group began exchanging their money. After the exchange, he handed his wives fifty euros apiece and gave some phone change and euros to Katrina.

As he looked around, he noticed the group of unmarried people standing and looking on. These are the extra people that are with them from the wars and raids they conducted in the Middle East. Some still needed help adjusting to a normal lifestyle. His counselors would continue giving them that help when they get to their next base. However, this took time. It was a mixed group. Some in the group had despair and hopelessness on their faces as if they had given up. Some are extra women who chose to stay with the colonies hoping to marry someday. Others were alone in this world.

Colonel John Livingston stood beside Mark with a wad of bills in his hand. His eyes were set in, but not too deep, allowing his expressions to show as he dealt with you.

I wasn’t sure you would remember we had extra people with us or not, Commander. I figured some probably would want to buy something for lunch. So I exchanged a wad of money.

You’re all heart, John.

John, like Mark, taught his men how to survive in hell and led his men in the battles in the desert with minimal loss of life.

The two men handed their first wives, Christine and Susan, a wad of ten euro notes and told them to pass them out to the extra people in their charge. The four of them handed out the money as the men and women crowded around.

While in Saudi Arabia Mark was confronted with people who had AIDS. He had arranged to have them stay with the colonies.

Spotting the German woman who had AIDS standing alone, Mark walked over to her and said, You look lost.

No, I’m waiting for my husband. He went to get us something to eat.

Don’t you have anybody in Germany you could call? he asked.

Yes. But I’m an outcast and not very much loved by my relatives. I don’t want to talk to any of them anyway, she remarked.

Well, you will always have your husband and us to talk with.

Thank you, and I will, she said.

I’m glad I arranged for you to stay with us. I hope you are happy.

I am, and thank you.

I better go check on my women and make sure they are staying out of trouble. Take care now.

Mark went looking for his two wives. He found them in line at one of the food vendors.

I’m starved. I think I’ll have the bratwurst and sauerkraut, Susan said.

I believe I’ll have the same, Barbe replied.

Barbe was blond and blue-eyed; she was Mark’s second wife. She fell in love with Mark and became his wife when they lived in Saudi Arabia. Mark turned to his first wife, Susan, who was the head doctor for the squadrons.

I think I’ll get us some drinks. Get me a bratwurst and sauerkraut also. I’ll grab us a seat in the beer garden.

We’ll meet you there, Susan replied.

Mark looked around the room to see how the others were doing. Many were seating themselves in the beer garden area at the many tables that were set up for the patrons in this part of the terminal. As they sat eating their lunch, the psychiatrists Don and Ruth joined them as the chaplain Ken and his wife, Judy, headed there way.

Suddenly the wall blew in. Bricks, mortar, and dust filled the room. Another RPG went over the building, slamming into the edge of the runway. The crowd screamed and scattered, running toward the loading ramps to the planes as the loudspeaker announced, All UN personnel, board the planes immediately.

The speaker repeated this warning as gunfire raged outside of the terminal. The German army had just arrived to take on the terrorists the airport security forces were battling. Sirens from emergency vehicles could be heard arriving, as the sound of helicopters overhead joined the battle. The shooting of rockets at the terrorists’ positions distracted the terrorists from further attacking the airport terminal. The United Nations quickly loaded the planes. They were told to grab a seat and belt down as they needed to get out of there. The planes were pushed away from the building, and they taxied to the end of the runway. They took off as the attack on the airport intensified.

Chapter 2

Saturday, October 19, 2019

The planes began landing on the runway of their new home base. They taxied to the terminal that was to be used by the colonies and came to a stop. The C5As were already in the process of unloading their equipment.

As Mark and his group was leaving the plane, a jeep rushed out to meet them. A young attractive woman in a Danish uniform stepped from the jeep. She had a thin figure, and her blond hair moved with the breeze as she stood on the runway. The four commanders went to meet her.

General Sontag? the woman asked.

Yes, Mark replied.

I see you’re wearing the rank of colonel. How come? I was told I was to meet a one-star general, the woman asked puzzled.

Oh, these. We have just been promoted and haven’t gotten our stars yet, Mark said.

The woman’s blue eyes met Mark’s as she spoke. I see. Well, sir, speaking for the Danish government and our military, we wish to welcome you to Denmark and hope your stay with us is a pleasant one. I will be your host for the next few days. I am Colonel Eva [pronounced ay-vah] Nicholson. She held out her hand to shake.

Mark, John, Susan, and Erika saluted and shook hands with her as they each told her their name and rank.

I will be looking forward to meeting your commander, Mark said.

He’s looking forward to meeting you too, sir, she replied.

How long have you known that we were coming here? Susan asked.

We were notified this morning that you were on your way here, and we haven’t had too much time to fix up your quarters. I understand you are polygamists and they didn’t mention how many would be arriving. How many of you are there? Colonel Nicholson asked.

Nine hundred and sixty-one all total. We have 230 extra people traveling with us. Plus others who desperately need our help, Mark said.

You do have a lot. We have many unused apartments and barracks around the area you will be located in, Colonel Nicholson said.

That will help. My women were wondering what we would be living in. We saw the base from the air, and it looks very impressive, Mark said.

Then let us get your people into the buses and follow my jeep. I will put you close to our headquarters. Yet far enough away you will have your privacy. Will that be okay, General?

Fine with us, Mark responded.

Mark noticed she acted mature for her age, and at five two in stature, she seemed to like doing her job. The men, wives, consolers, and girlfriends, along with all the extra people, loaded the buses and ambulances. Every Bradley and carrier was filled to capacity ready to follow the jeep. They moved away from the runway toward their new homes.

Colonel Nicholson led them to an area about a quarter of a mile from the Danish headquarters. It was a beautiful area. It had beechwood trees in their fall colors everywhere. Remains of flowers were in the flower boxes and around the buildings. Many had already wilted away as winter is fast approaching. It wasn’t hot like the oasis, but it wasn’t plain or void of vegetation either. It was really a surprise to the squadrons to have such a nice location with a wooded park area. The jeep pulled up in front of a large building that was to be their headquarters. The colonel stepped from the jeep and motioned to the officers to get out. They were home.

Colonel Nicholson said, General, this part of the base is really a choice area, and being your people are the first to arrive, I think you will like it here. The building behind you will be your headquarters. If you need anything, please let me know. Here is my phone number where I can be reached at our headquarters. Colonel Nicholson said, handing Mark a piece of paper and a small map of the area, You will need the map to get yourselves orientated.

How many of the apartment units will we be allowed? Mark asked.

As many as you will need. They are all empty, use whatever you need to house your people.

Turning and pointing to the south, she said, That street south of your hospital across the street is where we end our area.

Thank you for your help, Colonel, and we shall make ourselves at home, Mark said returning her salute.

Then we shall see you Monday morning in our headquarters. I will contact your office and let you know the time. Good night, gentlemen, ladies. The colonel got into her jeep and left.

Mark looked at all the vehicles backed up behind him. He climbed back onto the first bus and told the driver to go into the next block. When the bus stopped, Mark got out and motioned to the others to unload.

John, you get the married men and their wives into these apartments. I want the first apartment near the headquarters for me and my wives. I’ll take our other guests across the street and get them settled into their barracks. Have the men take the vehicles to the motor pool when they are finished. Susan, you and the hospital staff get the patients settled into the hospital, Mark ordered.

After getting the people settled in, Mark went and checked with the chefs in the mess hall and found they would have dinner ready for the troops and their families by seven o’clock. By six o’clock that evening, the Paradise group was pretty much settled into their new home.

Mark, come look around this place, Susan said as he entered the apartment.

Mark stood and looked around. What I see I like so far, furnished and everything, that’s a big help. I hope all the apartments are this nice, Mark said.

I think they are. All we need to do is unpack our bags like we did in Saudi Arabia. The bedrooms upstairs are neat, Susan said.

Barbe came running down the steps and excitedly said, I like it better here than in Saudi Arabia. We have room for our children here. We have four bedrooms, and they all have baths.

Susan said, The kitchen is bigger, and we have a nice dining room with china, and in the kitchen are dishes and a coffee pot, but we couldn’t find any coffee.

We will get some when the BX opens. By the way, where is Dr. Stephen staying? Mark asked.

She will be staying with the Larsons, Barbe said.

There was a knock on the door. Beckerson was standing in the entryway with Lieutenants Larsen and Merswa.

We have your bags from the Hummer, sir. Where do you want them? Larsen asked.

Put them here in the living room, and I’ll take them up to our rooms, Mark said.

Mark closed the door and was about to go wash up when another knock came on the door. This time it was John with his two wives, Christine and Jenny. Hey, you guys! Ready to go to supper?

Mark’s wives were coming down the steps as Mark greeted John and his women. Come on in for a minute, I want to go freshen up a bit. I’ll be with you shortly.

John with his wives went into the living room. Susan and Barbe began to visit with them asking about their apartment. Mark soon joined the group, and they left for the mess hall.

The supper line was long; however, they were being served. The hall was designed to hold around a thousand people. The smell of fresh brewed coffee blended in with the odors of the meal being served and the clinking of trays and utensils along with the conversations made it a noisy place at meal time.

Mark put his arms around Susan and pulled her back onto his chest as they stood in line.

I love you, he whispered in her ear as he held her.

She cringed then putting her hand up and behind his head, and she pulled him into her lips for a kiss. It wasn’t long before they were sitting down to supper, with Ken, Don, and their wives.

Mark looked around the mess hall and noticed everyone that came on the planes that day was sitting in the mess hall having supper. He stood up and tapped on his glass to get their attention. Soon everybody was quiet and looking his way.

Mark said, "Ladies and gentlemen, as your commander, I want to thank our Lord in heaven for our safe journey to this new place. Although there for a while in Germany I had my doubts if everyone would make it, I want you to know, I feel we are embarking on a new adventure together, and what lies ahead for us is still an unknown. I also realize we still have much to do to get everyone back to having a normal life, but I’m confident you will handle yourselves just fine.

"As your commander, I want you to know we commanders appreciate you. I want to thank my senior officers, all you junior officers, and you enlisted men for the work you do. I know it has been a hellish six years with rescuing these fine people and the fighting we were subjected to. Then being asked to take on a new lifestyle to beat all lifestyles has been hard on a lot of us. You make me proud to serve with you. To be frank, I don’t know what we got ourselves into by making this move, but for your sakes, let’s hope it is a good move.

Tomorrow will be a free day to give honor to our God above. When you do, thank him and have him continue to bless our efforts to keep mankind free. If we keep the Lord in our hearts and on our side, we will always come home to our loved ones, I promise you. Now, let’s celebrate this night with our loved ones, and next week I promise we will resume our parties. That’s all I have to say. Thank you again, and God bless you.

Mark sat as the whole mess hall stood up and clapped to honor him. He stood and waved to them, then sat down again.

That was a surprise, General, John said.

I felt I needed to thank these people for being so special to me. I love them all and want us to remain strong and believe in ourselves. But I’m concerned as to what we are getting ourselves into, Mark said.

I wouldn’t worry too much, Commander. Things will work out for us. As for your speech, I couldn’t have done better myself, said Chaplain Ken Larson. You, I do believe, sir, are an inspiration to these men and women. They will go through Hades with you if you were so ordered.

I’d like to believe that, Chaplain. It would make our mission here a lot easier, Mark said.

I’m ready to go home to the apartment, darling, Barbe announced.

I want to thank the Larsons for letting me stay with them, I love my area, Sonya said.

Sonya, you’re from Denmark. How about helping us out with the language and the customs? Mark asked.

I will as soon as you want to know something, she said smiling.

I would like you to help the men and women get a better feel for your country. I suggest you women get with her and learn all you can. I know I need to learn more myself.

Then Ken made a suggestion they got together that Sunday and had the men marry the young ladies who were ready for marriage. That got the women excited around the table, and they began to make arrangements.

Mark entered the apartment behind the women and began to take the bags upstairs to the women’s rooms. He grabbed his and Susan’s and started for the stair case. When the women see him grab the bags, Barbe grabbed her own bag and started up the steps behind him. Mark was behind Susan. Susan said she would sleep with Barbe to give Mark his freedom. He could stay in the first bedroom on the left so he could share his love and not be disturbed. The next room on the left side of the hall was to be for the women. The two rooms across the hall were going to remain empty for a while. Mark put their bags on the end of the beds. Susan started to undress; she was exhausted from the day’s travel and setting up the ward at the hospital. Mark walked up behind her, turned her toward him, and kissed her.

I love you, sweetheart, he whispered.

I love you too, darling. I’m beat, and I haven’t done anything, she said smiling at him.

Yes, you have, you have done a lot today. So let’s get you into bed, he insisted.

Mark kissed her good night. She smiled with her eyes closed. He stood and looked at how beautiful she was. Mark winked at Barbe then left the room and went downstairs to lock the apartment. He was turning out lights and getting the apartment ready for the night when Barbe came down in her new baby doll nightie. She wanted Mark to kiss her good night.

I was on my way up to do just that, sweetheart, he said smiling at her.

I want you to make love with me, Barbe said softly.

Give me a kiss, then we will go up to my bedroom, he said.

Mark returned to the downstairs and was about to check the entryway to the apartment, making sure it was secure when the doorbell rang. There standing in the doorway was Colonel Eva Nicholson.

Commander, Sontag, our commander wishes to invite you to our officers’ club this evening, she said with a pleasant smile.

Mark turned on the light in the living room and looked at his watch; it was nine thirty. Mark realized they had eaten at seven, and by eight thirty they were home and wanting to retire.

Come in. I thought it was later than nine thirty. My wives have gone to bed, and I was locking up.

Well, if you rather some other time, I’ll tell my commander, Eva said.

No. Now is okay. I would like to visit your officers’ club. I’ll just be a moment. I need to get out of this robe and freshen up a bit. I’ll get one of our vehicles and join you. How far is it to your club?

It is a few blocks from here. My orders were to escort you and one of your wives to the club, sir.

My women are probably asleep. Would you be uncomfortable if I went with you alone to meet your commander?

No.

Are you sure?

I’m sure.

Give me a moment to get dressed, and I’ll go with you to meet your commander. All I can offer you is a glass of water. Would you care for some?

Not really, she said.

Then come into the living room and have a seat while I get ready.

The colonel walked into the living room and sat in the lounge chair. Mark hurried upstairs and readied himself. As he came out into the hall, he decided to check in on his women.

Susan wasn’t quite asleep; she asked where he was going. He told her and asked if she wanted to go with him.

She smiled and said, Some other time. I’d rather stay here and rest. Have fun, darling.

Mark bent down and gave her a kiss. Barbe was already asleep. He softly left the room, went down the steps, and told Eva he was ready. As they left the apartment, Mark locked up.

Turning, he said to her, We better ask John to join us. He is our other senior commander.

Mark rang the bell to John’s apartment. John opened the door a crack and asked, Who’s there?

It’s I, Mark.

What do you want? John asked, whispering.

We have been invited to the officers’ club to meet the base commander. We have a ride waiting for us so get dressed, he whispered back.

It’s kind of late to be going anywhere, isn’t it? John asked.

No, it’s only nine thirty. So get your butt out here.

Couldn’t I meet him Monday? I really would rather stay here, John pleaded.

Colonel Nicholson spoke up, He can see the general Monday, sir, if he wishes. I was asked to see if you would care to meet our base commander in a more relaxed atmosphere, rather than in the office on Monday. I believe Commander Brodrickson wanted to meet with you, the commander of the Paradise group, she stated.

I really don’t want to go out tonight, John said through the crack in the door.

Well, if that’s what you want, I guess I’ll do the protocol myself. See you tomorrow then.

Okay, and thanks. I’ll catch you tomorrow sometime.

John shut the door, and they heard it lock.

Mark turned to the colonel and said, Let’s go. It looks like it’s just you and I.

Suddenly there was a loud explosion off in the distance.

What was that? Mark asked.

Oh, that? Don’t let it bother you. Every once and while you will hear them. We are okay. I’ll let the commander tell you about them.

The two walked to the waiting car. Eva held the door on the front passengers side open for him. He entered, and she closed it. Then came around the car and sat behind the wheel. She started it up and made a U-turn and headed toward the officers’ club.

Chapter 3

Alock of dark brown hair hung from Mark’s curl onto his forehead. The colonel looked over and saw the lock and liked what she was seeing. She smiled at him.

Colonel, how late is your officers’ club open? Mark asked.

As long as it wishes to be. Sometimes some of the officers don’t go home until the sun comes up the next morning. It is much like the clubs in town.

Do you have to stay that late?

No. I never stayed much past one o’clock. Once I stayed till two, that was because the officer I was showing around wanted to stay there with his girlfriend until that time.

I’ll bet your husband was mad at that.

I’m not married.

I know this is none of my business, but just how old are you, Colonel? Mark asked.

Don’t you know you should never ask a woman that question?

I’ve heard that, Colonel.

I turned twenty-three last month, sir. And you, General? How old are you? she asked glancing his way.

I’m thirty-one.

You are too young to be a general.

Well, my situation is quite a bit different from the run-of-the-mill army. I was appointed by the United Nations to this position, and that makes the big difference. However, I did start out a colonel like yourself. I was promoted last week to this position. So I’m quite new at being a general.

I see. And how many wives do you have, General?

I have two of the most beautiful, most precious, wonderful ladies God has ever put on this earth. I love both of them very much and will die for them if need be. I fear for them with the world in turmoil and viruses everywhere, I really don’t know what’s going to become of us. I know they worry about me too much.

They must love you, General.

That they do. As much as I love them. They have been my joy and inspiration now for the last five years or so.

Then you haven’t been married to them too long? Colonel Nicholson asked surprised.

No, just to Susan, my first wife. We have been together five years and seven months. However, we have only been married five years and five months. We got married late in May of 2013.

Then you weren’t practicing plural marriage when you married Susan, I gather?

That’s right. After we got to Saudi Arabia, Susan and I got married. Then we were given orders to start a colony. We were ordered to use the men I and John commanded. They figured with the rescued women we were bringing in off the desert, we would have a great opportunity to start one of their darn colonies. The only trouble with their theory is, it worked out too well. Now we have 130-some odd women without husbands. And I don’t know what to do about them.

When did you marry your second wife?

We were married in October of 2013. It has been an emotional ride for my first wife. This polygamy thing is not as easy as one might think.

I suppose not. Then it was hard getting started into polygamy I take it.

That’s about it. And it’s still all new to me. But I have no regrets, I got two of the best women in this world.

Colonel Nicholson smiled and asked, Where is Susan from?

She is an American from Fort Dix New Jersey.

And you, sir? You are an American too, I gather? Where are you from?

I’m from a place called Provo. It’s in the state of Utah.

Is your other wife an American?

No way. Barbe, my second wife, is from France.

You do have a variety of women, don’t you?

Yes, my men and I have a variety of women choosing us for their husbands. That is why we are called the Paradise colony, my men come from many nations.

The women do the choosing? Colonel Nicholson asked surprised.

Well, not exactly, we work as a team, that’s how the colony works. It’s the ladies who do the choosing sort of. They meet at our women’s club, get to know each other, and then they are presented to me, and we date as a team for a while. If we find we are compatible with each other, then we decide on a marriage date. I have another woman whom I believe would like to start dating me, but I have two women who will decide when that will happen. I believe it will be soon. The men are wondering why I am dragging my feet, I should have married another before now. Six years is a long time between marriages. However, I’m very lucky to have the women who are married to me, thanks to Susan and Barbe, they will help decide who I date. So far they have been beautiful and precious to me.

It sounds like you have good women. Do they ever fight?

They have their moments of disagreement, however, they seem to control themselves and are pretty good at making up with each other, Mark replied.

Do they ever get jealous?

I suppose so, however neither has ever openly shown me any jealousy. We are trying to live to kill jealousy and make it obsolete. Whether we succeed or not depends on what’s inside each one of us. My wives have been strong in this area.

Mark paused a moment then said. The women can only do so much to make things work, but they need my love, caring, and understanding of each need to make this thing a success.

Sounds like you will have a tremendous job being there for many women, Colonel Nicholson said, stopping the car and glancing his way.

It has not been an easy chore, Colonel, believe me. While in Saudi Arabia, we had to put a lot of things on hold, marriage was one of them. The terrorists found us and kept us and the Saudis busy fighting them. There was no peace between us. The situation was bad and getting worse when we were ordered out.

What will you do with the other women you have who don’t have husbands? she asked.

Work to get ourselves some more men. If that fails, I’ll try and muddle through so we can take care of them properly. At the moment, we still have too many women who want to be married. It’s going to take years to solve our problem.

Will you have to marry more women?

Yes. We have to fill the colony’s requirements.

And what is that, General?

That all women must be of legal age before getting married for one thing. That is, she has to be eighteen or older. And the United Nations may come up with some other requirements we don’t know of yet for another. If they do, we will just follow their orders.

Well, General, this conversation has been interesting. This is our officers’ club, sir. Please stay seated and I will get your door.

No need to, Colonel, I’m a big boy and can open it myself.

They walked into the club together. Mark noticed it was done up very nicely and had a comfortable atmosphere. The colonel led Mark to a table where the Danish base commander was sitting. As they approached, the officers sitting at the table stood up to greet them.

General Brodrickson, this is General Sontag from the Paradise units, Colonel Nicholson said as she began introducing him to the men at the table.

Mark saluted the general and shook his hand. General Brodrickson was in his late sixties. His hair was graying, making him a distinguished-looking gentleman.

Won’t you join us, General? General Brodrickson said with a smile.

It would be a pleasure, sir, Mark responded.

The general’s face had the wrinkles of age, especially around his blue eyes as he smiled. His eyebrows were thick and gray. He rubbed his large nose, but the rubbing didn’t distract from the air of authority in his demeanor.

This is our base deputy commander, Colonel Nielson, the commander said.

Mark shook his hand and nodded.

Colonel Nielson was a thin gentleman. His face was smooth and pale-looking as he began looking around the room for a friend. His blond hair, blue eyes, and a dainty sissy look about him had Mark wondering what he was looking for. His voice was more feminine like than the others at the table. He smiled in a way that made you feel uncomfortable. He defiantly had a feminine demeanor about him.

And this gentleman is our base adjutant, Colonel Beckmen.

Again Mark smiled and shook hands.

Colonel Beckmen was a gentleman in his forties. He had a strong manly look about him. He picked up his glass of ale and like a rugged Norseman he took a big gulp. He returned the glass to the table with a pleasant smile, and his eyes twinkled as he spoke.

Your group are pluralists, aren’t they?

I suppose so, sir. If you are referring to our practice of having more than one wife, Mark said.

We have two squadrons who like you are our colonists. They shall be arriving here next month, I understand. Isn’t that so, General? Beckman asked, looking at Brodrickson and sucking on his pipe.

Yes, they will be arriving from the islands as early as next week so I’m told, said the general.

And this is our commander of the Air Force groups stationed here, General Luden, Eva announced.

Mark shook his hand.

General Luden was a tall blond, blue-eyed Danish flyer. He had a slight moustache on his upper lip, and when he smiles he was rather handsome. He was pleasant and enjoyed looking at the opposite sex. He had a square chin and a strong thin face. His looked belied the fact he was in his fifties.

Eva pulled a chair from one of the other tables over for Mark and was about to leave when Mark asked if she would stay and be his chaperone.

I wish to apologize for my wives, sirs. They were very tired from our trip here, and they wanted to retire early. Also my second in command, General Livingston had some unfinished business to attend to and sends his apology.

Nielson asked with a sarcastic tone. How many women did you bag, General?

Before Mark could say anything, Eva blurted out.

Two. But why should you give a damn? You prefer men over women anyway.

I was just curious, woman. By the way, has he hit on you yet? Nielson asked.

No, he happens to be a gentleman, but one who prefers the opposite sex, Eva sneered back.

Too bad, I was hoping he would do something about you, Nielson said.

Eva sat back in her chair, wrinkled her nose and stuck her tongue out at him.

All right, you two, settle down, said General Brodrickson.

I apologize for their behavior, General. Eva and John never did get along too well, the general said.

Apology accepted, sir. She is a spitfire, Mark acknowledged.

General, have you been given any orders yet? General Brodrickson asked.

Not yet. I suspect we should know something next week. I know we are to build our colony here. Outside of that, I’m in the dark. Do any of you gentlemen practice plural marriage? Mark asked.

No, we were too old to get in on that part of our program. However, we do have young officers and their wives on the way here to make this a joint project on this base. This base I believe, was designed to be used for the colonies of the world and Denmark. As you know we are the oldest government in the world. We have been here a long time and we plan on being here way into the future. So when the United Nations set up the colony program, we immediately adopted it. We could see it was the only way we will be able to survive the plagues. Yet I wish some of my officers would change their sexual preferences, so we won’t have problems, General Brodrickson said, looking at Nielson.

The general continued, I might add, you have come to the safest base in the world. You will notice we are a safe distance from any towns. I believe we are the only base in the world who has two guard stations to go through to get on base. All gates are protected that way. I’ll explain the reasons for that when we meet on Monday.

I’ll look forward to that meeting, Mark said.

If you are uncomfortable with some of my officers, General Sontag, they will not be permitted beyond the north boundary. We will control where they will be allowed to go. It’s a good thing I only have a couple. They know what is allowed and what is not. So you should never see them up there, right, John? the general said, looking at him.

Yes, sir. I don’t think I would care to go up there anyway they have too many women for my taste, Nielson replied.

Well, just keep that in mind, said Colonel Beckmen.

You telling us you have taste? Colonel Nicholson retorted.

Mark began to laugh, and so did the others. The only one not laughing was Colonel Nielson.

That music sounds inviting. Would you care to dance, Colonel Nicholson? Mark asked.

Would it be okay, General? she asked General Brodrickson.

I believe that is part of your duty here at this base to entertain our guests. So by all means, dance with the gentlemen, the general said.

Excuse us, gentlemen, Mark said as he and the colonel rose to go to the dance floor.

Mark and Eva are entering the dance floor when Colonel Nielson said, I’ll bet he will be married to her within the month gentlemen.

No way, said Beckmen. He seems like he has all the women he wants for now.

I have a feeling he will find a way to marry her, Nielson said.

On the dance floor, Mark held Eva in his arms as she and he glided around the floor. You do well for yourself, General, she said as they danced.

You’re not so bad yourself. You and that popinjay don’t seem to see eye to eye, do you?

He is a queer jerk. He hated me from the first day we met. I was a threat to him. I guess he figured with me around, those he talked into his kind of lifestyle would turn and go out with me rather than him. But his kind doesn’t change. So he was proved wrong, she said, looking toward the table.

Then why do you two fight so if you are no threat? Mark asked.

He doesn’t want me around. He is paranoid that I might even go out with one of his buddies. They are all alike, and I’d rather not be around any of them. The other officers are married and are here at the request of the general. They will be going home soon, then I’ll take you home. But if you’d rather, we can stay here and dance if you wish, Colonel Nicholson said.

Let me see how the night goes. I’m enjoying your company, and I do like to dance, Mark said smiling at her.

The music stopped, and they returned to the table. As the officers rose at their return, Mark pulled Eva’s chair out and seated her. Then sat with the rest.

You make a lovely couple, Colonel Nielson said.

She is a wonderful dancer, Mark came back at him.

I did enjoy being in his arms, if that is what you want to know, John, Eva said.

I’m happy to hear that. Maybe, just maybe, the general here can solve one of my problems, Colonel Nielson said.

Well, you surely do have one, she retorted.

Mark sat and laughed silently at the beauty as she put Colonel Nielson down.

Beckmen rose and said, If you’ll excuse me, gentlemen. I have to be returning to my family. It has been a pleasure meeting you, General Sontag. I’ll be looking forward to working with you and your units in the coming months. I’ll see the rest of you, gentlemen, Monday morning at the office. Good night, sirs.

The rest bade him a good night.

Eva saw one of Nielson’s male friends and said, Well, well, John, there’s your girlfriend.

John looked around and spotted his friend and turned back to Eva and said, That is not my girlfriend. That happens to be my boyfriend. Excuse me, I wish to visit with him.

Mark was doing all he could not to burst out laughing. So he looked at General Brodrickson, who was shaking his head. Then he looked over at General Luden, who was laughing at the two of them.

After Colonel Nielson left the table, Luden said, Eva, you make coming to this club a pleasure. I get a kick out of you two going at it. You just made my night.

The music started again, and Mark asked Eva if she would like another dance.

She accepted, and the two were about to return to the dance floor when General Brodrickson said, I must be leaving now, General. You and Colonel Nicholson have a good time, and I’ll see both of you Monday morning. I have some things we need to work out, schedules and what have you. What say we get together at eight o’clock? Bring along that other general, whatever his name is, with you, and we will see what we are supposed to be doing here. Maybe we will find out what those folks back in New York have on their minds. I’m sure it will be some sort of screwball operation if I know them. He stood up and left.

Colonel Ludon said, I see one of my officers up at the bar. I need to confirm tomorrow’s flights with him. So I’ll be going also. It has been nice meeting you, General. And if I wasn’t married, I’d be stealing you, Colonel. Take care now.

He got up and left the two of them standing by the table. Mark looked at Eva and said, Shall we dance?

Mark escorted her to the floor. The music was still playing, and they danced a short while when it stopped. He and she talked with each other as they stood waiting for the next dance to begin. It wasn’t long before the band started playing a soft love song. Mark took her into his arms and they danced very close. He was beginning to enjoy her soft feel, and it was bothering him because he didn’t want to betray his wives. The couple danced around the floor in a very close embrace. Eva enjoyed being in Mark’s arms.

The music stopped, and the two went back to the table. The waiter was just bringing them their drinks.

Mark paid for them, and Eva said, Let me help, as she went for her purse.

No, tonight is on me, Mark said.

Then let us change tables. I’d like to sit at a more secluded table. Wouldn’t you, General?

As you wish.

Let us sit over there in the corner so we can have more privacy, okay? Eva asked.

Fine with me.

Mark picked up their drinks, and she led the way to a corner table.

This is a little more private, and we won’t be out in the middle of everything, Eva said smiling at him.

They sat, and Mark said, Here you go, try this. If you don’t like it, I’ll get you something else.

She took a sip and then another and said, It tastes like plain orange juice to me.

That is what it is supposed to taste like. However, the vodka can still creep up on you and you won’t know you’re drunk until you leave here. Outside you may get blurry-eyed, which brings me to a very important point. If you get tipsy, who will drive us home? I’ll tell you what. You draw me a map of how to get back to my apartment, and I’ll see to it we get back there, Mark said.

She thought a moment, then said, Okay, give me that napkin, and I’ll draw you a map.

She drew a crude map on the napkin, telling and showing Mark how to get back to his place. But you will use this only if I get too drunk to drive, okay? she asked.

Okay. I’ll put it in my pocket just in case. Shall we dance? he asked.

The couple returned to the dance floor and danced most of the evening. By the third hour, they were talking about the base and their jobs. Eva had two screwdrivers by then and was still quite sober.

He said to her, "Let’s head for home it’s getting late.

The next morning, Sunday, October 20, Susan woke early. She saw Mark was still asleep as she passed his room. She went downstairs and into the kitchen looking for something to drink. Not finding anything, she returned to the living room and saw Barbe’s baby doll nightie sticking out from under the cushion on the couch.

Now how did that get there? she thought to herself.

Barbe was coming down the stairs and saw Susan pull her baby doll out from under the cushion.

There is my nightie! she exclaimed.

I’m wondering how it got here, Susan said.

Mark and I made love after you had gone to bed. I was very horny, and he relived my sexual pressure. It was pure ecstasy. Afterward he carried me to bed, Barbe said smiling.

Well, don’t leave your clothes down here. You never know who might come to visit us. I’m sure you’re unaware that Mark went out after we went to bed.

He went out? Barbe was surprised to hear.

Yes, he came up to the room and got ready to go to the officers’ club. He asked me to go along, but I told him I wanted to stay here. I also told him he was to go and have fun. Maybe I should have gone with him, Susan said.

Mark came down the stairs to the living room, yawning, Good morning, ladies.

Did you have fun last night? Barbe asked.

In fact, I did. The colonel and I danced most of the night, she is a very intelligent woman. I also met the rest of the base officers and they seem like sharp fellows. Now let’s go to breakfast and bring back some coffee, Mark said.

Not before I get a good morning kiss from you, Susan said.

The three left for breakfast. Upon returning, Barbe turned on the TV. They watched the news about the plagues and the problems that were being experienced around the world. It had everyone’s attention. The death rate was still climbing from terrorists’ car and suicide bombings. Ambushes, mobs, gangs, and warlords dominated the news. As they watched reports of fights breaking out between countries headlined one segment. They also heard some alarming news about a group who wanted to be the new world government and how they were beginning to control certain third world countries. They were forming alliances that only meant trouble for the UN Forces.

Policing the world is going to be a major headache for the United Nations, the news caster stated. These influential groups have plenty of money backing them to buy the best equipped army in the world.

I’m glad we won’t be involved with that. I believe we are too important to be risking our two colonies on war, Mark said.

But Mark was troubled. He wasn’t happy with the turn of events that was going on around the world. He knew if it wasn’t put into check soon, he and his small group of men probably would be put in jeopardy.

The doorbell rang. Susan answered it, and in walked John, and his wives and the three lovely ladies he wanted to marry—Inga, Lynn, and Monica.

Say, buddy, will you be my best man? We are headed over to Chaplain Larson’s to get hitched, John asked.

Sure, John. Which one you marrying?

Inga. She and I have been dating. And we decided we’d get hitched. The other’s approve, so why not? Then when I learn more about Lynn and Monica here, I plan on doing it again.

Wouldn’t it be easier to marry in the headquarters building? We have plenty of room for every-one there. I know my women want to witness this marriage and your men and their women would like to be there, Mark suggested.

All right, I’ll tell the chaplain to meet us in the headquarters building and maybe we can get the women to go around to the apartments, John asked, looking at the women.

I guess that will be okay, Lynn said.

That afternoon, the weddings went on for several hours each men taking two or three ladies to be their wives. John married Inga Bonner as Mark stood in for his best man. When it was over, there were many happy brides glad to have the man they wanted.

Chapter 4

Monday, October 21, 2019

It was 6:00 a.m. when the alarm went off. Susan was in Mark’s bed.

She turned and opened her eyes just barely and said, Do we have to? as she stretched a little.

Come on, sleepyhead. Time to get up. The general will want us all at his meeting. I want you and Erika there to know what we will be up against. So wake up, Mark said as he pulled her toward him and kissed her.

I’d rather stay here all day and do this, than go to that darn meeting, she said.

So would I, but I’m a commander, and so are you. So let’s move it, he said as he lightly slapped her on her bottom.

Want to play ruff hey, well how about this smarty pants. Susan began to tickle him.

Mark curled up as she attacked him, both laughing so hard they were soon awake and panting. He slipped off of the bed onto the floor to get away from her.

Laughing, he turned and said, panting, Mrs. Sontag, I don’t know how your husband puts up with you, but you are too much for me.

She smiled and said, He manages, but I do have to let him know who is boss around here every once and a while.

Well, Mrs. Sontag, I think he already knows. Now I’ve got to shave.

You better get over here and kiss me or I won’t sleep with you anymore, she said.

You win, sweetheart. I can’t resist your beauty.

Mark went to the bed, bent down, and tenderly kissed his lovely redheaded wife. She was beautiful even in pregnancy. He knew his love for her would never wane. They rose and dressed for the day. Barbe came into the room; she had on her nurse’s uniform. She kissed her husband good morning.

Susan said, Let’s have breakfast, then we will see what needs to be done at the hospital.

John, Christine, Jenny and Inga are at the front door when Mark opened it for Susan and Barbe.

Good morning, neighbors. Looks like another sunny morning. I understand it’s supposed to get stormy by tonight. Feel the chill in the air? Fall is upon us, John said.

I need a cup of coffee to take the chill out of my bones, Mark said.

I’m with you there, buddy, John replied.

The seven walked to the mess hall and sat near a window.

"John it gets mighty cold here. We need to get our men and women warm clothing. I