The New World: A Step Backward (14 page)

Friday
~
August 16, 2075
~
6:40 am

Early the next morning after the bonfire, Thoruk tossed back and forth in frustration, pressing the pillow against his face.  Swirling pressure mounted as a myriad of battle schemes wracked his skull. 
Blasted, I can't sleep!
  He flopped for the 50th time, or so it seemed. 
I'm glad I worked on strategies before this blazing headache.

Minutes seemed like hours.  He stretched and snatched the clock from the night stand. 
You've got to be kidding, it's 6:47. 
He wound the knob on the back of the old timepiece, set it down, and rolled out of bed.

Worn out as if he'd run for 10 miles, Thoruk stumbled toward the kitchen while stepping into a pair of shorts.  He lit the lamp on the oak table and then the wood-burning stove to percolate a large pot of coffee.  While the dull pain inside his head persisted, he stepped outside and drew a deep breath.

Shutting his eyes, a bit of the ache floated away. 
Oh, I want to get some sleep — but I can't!  They'll be here at eight.  Have to hammer out the blasted plan.

Thoruk sat in the porch chair under the glow of a breaking dawn.  As he slumped deeper into his seat, recollections of Intellulka's World Annihilation Period lessons drifted through his mind.

Thirteen Years Earlier: January ~ 2062

On a wintry day in the second week of classes, Intellulka had stopped to catch his breath during a long-winded lecture about the World Annihilation Period.  Sitting between Mercivil and Stormulka, Thoruk waved his hand.  "Why didn't the leaders of the Old Western world prevent the assaults?"

The surly gentleman lifted his finger.  "Excellent question!  In one word — complacency.  They failed to recognize their true enemies and how dangerous they were.  On top of that, the leaders lacked the will to fight their adversary at the level required to end the threat.  It was far too late when they finally understood the hatred burning inside the terrorists' hearts."

The wise professor peered at Thoruk.  "You, as Ukkiville's probable ruler of the future, will face similar dilemmas and very tough decisions."

Wielding his pointer, Intellulka tapped a handful of countries and states on his old map.  "WAP illustrated that only a few countries and states with the strongest borders, security, and leadership would survive the destruction much better than the vast majority."

He paused and rubbed his chin.  "The key to being a successful leader is to recognize and discern your real enemies from your trusted friends and supporters.  Then you have to understand your adversaries — their motivations, weaknesses, strengths, and allies.

"Maintaining impenetrable borders and security to avert attacks from within is essential.  When a breach occurs, immediately stop the offenders and repair the damage.  Make sure your enemy understands and respects your resolve — that Ukkiville will vigorously defend itself in response to any aggression.  If your rogue adversaries smell a whiff of weakness, they are prone to test and exploit it."

The crafty teacher motioned to three stacks on the counter.  "You'll uncover more interesting details about the WAP in your homework.  As part of your assignment, read
How Texas Survived the World Annihilation Period
, by John Drake.

"I want you to note the way Texas acknowledged border and security flaws and initiated action on their own, when their federal government wouldn't.  Leaders of the state possessed the willingness to defend their territory and freedoms by fighting their recognized enemies — something you should never forget, or you could lose what you have."

Friday
~
August 16, 2075
~
7:30 am

Whistling steam from a distance interrupted Thoruk's flashback.  The aroma of fresh brew tantalized his senses. 
Mmm, I need coffee, now!

He rose, stepped inside, and while passing through the living room glanced at his father's ornate cuckoo clock. 
They'll be here soon.
  He quickened his pace, grabbed his favorite mug, and poured himself a large, steamy cup.  After a drawn-out sip, he closed his eyes. 
Ahhh.

Thoruk opened the stove door; only three orange embers remained.  After adding another log, he washed his face, slipped into a tan deerskin shirt and pair of pants, then returned to the kitchen.

While moving the coffee pot and lighting a lamp in the dining room for the gathering, chatter erupted outside.  He strolled to the porch to find his buddies approaching.  Thoruk grinned.  "Hey, it's been too long since the three of us have sparred."

He spotted the other guests nearing the gate.  "You two take a seat in the dining room, but don't kill each other.  We need you alive!"

After Intellulka, Protuk, and Wolfuk arrived, got their coffee, and took their seats, Thoruk began talking.  "As you know, we're here to finalize plans for the upcoming battle.  Please speak freely.  I want to hear every one of your concerns and ideas.  We need to be on the same page at the end of the meeting.  Okay?"

Everybody nodded.

Thoruk looked at Intellulka and Protuk.  "I haven't forgotten your lessons.  We recognize the enemy: the Skalags, and now the Scargiles.  They will be ruthless and likely outnumber us by more than three to one.  Thanks to Wolfuk, we understand their strengths and weaknesses much better.  Today, we're going to focus on our counterattack."

Pausing, he faced Protuk.  "As we discussed before, we'll need help from the Texas Freedom Defenders.  After we're done this morning, send your best rider on the fastest horse to their leader.  Intellulka can give you details, including a map and a copy of the agreement.

"Request two fighter planes as previously negotiated.  I want them here 10 days before we anticipate the battle, in case the enemy strikes early.

"Inform them that we have accommodations.  Tell them to fly in from the southeast.  We'll stake out flags on the abandoned airstrip for them to land south of our community park so they don't tip off the Skalags."

Wolfuk leaned forward.  "Sir, may I suggest delaying the rider for a couple of days?  Foxuk continues to scout the Skalag camp and is due back the day after tomorrow.  My brother should provide a more definitive date and specifics of their advance."

"Good idea.  That still leaves plenty of time.  In your scouting report, you mentioned firearms.  How powerful?"

"Not sure.  My contact only heard about them — there's no information beyond that."

"Okay, we'll assume they'll bring handguns and rifles; and maybe something bigger to damage the wall."  He faced Wolfuk.  "I sure hope you're right and that your brother has better details."

"Sir, whatever the news, Foxuk and I should visit both enemy camps the week before the battle.  Let's severely weaken their offense by destroying as many weapons and muclones as possible."

"Excellent!"

Thoruk turned to Protuk.  "I know you've been thinking hard about alternatives and recommendations.  What have you got?"

The thick-bodied man stood, towering over the team.  "First and foremost, the wall must be completed."  All eyes focused on Stormulka.

He shook his head.  "Don't worry, we're almost done.  It will be complete in five days or so, well before the battle.  However, with the talk of muclones — size unknown — potentially powerful firearms, and rumors from other villages that the Scargiles used catapults in the past..."

Thoruk waved his hand in a rolling motion.  "Get to the end, man."

Stormulka's neck flushed.  "Okay!  We should reinforce the wall better.  It's fine for primitive weapons, but it needs to withstand a tougher test."

Squinting, Thoruk sucked a deep breath.  "How much more time?"

His buddy clenched his fist.  "I'm confident the team can finish the rest and reinforce it within three to four weeks.  We will strengthen the most vulnerable spots and work our way out to the corners.  If they attack earlier than expected, at least a decent portion will be fortified."

"Makes sense, but you're cutting it close.  Expedite it and let me know if you need extra help."

Stormulka shot out of his chair and blurted.  "The wall's important, but it's a big mistake to wait.  WE should attack THEM!  They're the ones sending monsters to kill us!"  His jugular bulged.

"Whoa, Storm, think about this for a moment."  Shaking his head, Thoruk stared at his friend.  "Going after both the Skalags and Scargiles would be very risky.  They outnumber us significantly, and we'd be fighting in the open against firearms on their turf.  I know it's hard to be patient knowing they're coming, but we need the wall between us and their more advanced weapons and muclones!"

He surveyed the team.  "Does that make sense?"

Seeing the others nod, Stormulka slunk back to his seat and grumbled.  "You're right.  But I hate being cramped within these blazing walls with Zolokt and his monsters on the loose!"

Mercivil peered at Protuk and quickly switched to another topic.  "A fair number of teenagers and healthier elderly can tend to the injured, put out fires, and distribute supplies to the warriors.  I'll gather volunteers for the internal activities and organize getting buildings and dry areas doused with water prior to the battle.  I'll also determine which of them are willing and qualified to fight."

The burly man bowed.  "Thank you, that's a huge help."  Protuk then shared his ideas of additional defenses outside the wall, cutting down trees in sniper's range, and timing the strikes by the jet.

Thoruk scanned the group again.  "What's the biggest weakness?"

Stormulka spoke up.  "The unknown surrounding Zolokt's monsters and their atmospheric controls.  Hopefully, Foxuk can shed more light on these matters when he returns."

The white-haired professor lifted his trembling hand off the table.  "Flying muclones might be a problem, since they won't be deterred by the creek, wall, or other structures.  We'll need to be prepared for them."

Thoruk nodded.  "Excellent point.  Let's warn the archers and remaining villagers to be alert for that possibility.  Mercy, anything troubling you?"

"What if the enemy gets inside the village?  Will we be able to protect the women and children who volunteer?  We can't allow any of them to be captured and enslaved — or worse."

Thoruk peered at her.  "We WON'T let that happen!  I, personally, will keep a keen eye toward the grounds within the complex and assure there will be help as needed."

He looked at the others.  "And you two, how do you feel?"

Wolfuk perked up.  "It's a solid plan.  I'll do my part to hit them ahead of the battle and be back to join the fight."

Protuk stood and glanced at each one in the room as he spoke.  "I've poured through the details over and over again.  It's a well-thought-out strategy with a couple of warts, but it's the best, given our circumstances.  We will put an end to these savages forever!"

Thoruk shook Protuk's hand and hugged him.  "Great job my friend."

Gritting his teeth, Thoruk turned to the rest.  "The Skalags and Scargiles are going to rue the day they messed with Ukkiville.  They awoke a sleeping beast, and we won't stop until our cursed enemy is dismembered limb by limb!"

He took a deep breath.  "Now let's get prepared."

As his visitors dispersed, Intellulka tapped him on the shoulder.  "Protuk and I need a moment with you and Wolfuk — alone.  It's very important."

Oh no.
  Thoruk scrunched his face.  "Why didn't you speak out during the meeting?"

"This isn't something for all to hear."

"Okay, give me a second."  He walked to Mercivil and Stormulka.  "I have to talk with Intellulka and Protuk.  I'm not sure how long it will take, but I'll catch up with you afterward."

He shut the door and returned to the dining room.  "What is it?  Why the privacy?"

Protuk squinted.  "Do you recall the day your father died?"

"Of course, but he didn't just die; he was murdered."

The Master of Arms sighed.  "Yes, by Zolokt's nephew.  Remember when your father spoke to me alone?"

"Mmm — yes."

"Well, that's what this is about.  Your father and Intellulka had a secret they shared with me that night.  I promised Odinuk not to inform you until the time was right.  After a lengthy debate yesterday, Intellulka and I decided that now is the time.  You and Wolfuk need to be aware of its existence given the importance of the upcoming battle."

Monday
~
August 19, 2075
~
1:30 pm

Stormulka snapped the stallion's reins.  “Yawww, come on, Lightning, pull!"  When the broad steed lunged forward, its bulging muscles twitched as it dragged a pine toward Ukkiville's wall.  With the leather straps in one hand, Stormulka waved the other at a couple of volunteers.  "Blister and Dawdler, come help me raise this log.  We've got to pick up the pace!"

Near 3:00 pm, after securing three more pines to complete one side of a corner, Stormulka guided Lightning toward another felled tree.

"Aaah!"  A sharp shrill filled the air, and the spooked stallion reared high, pawing at the sky.

What on earth?
  Stormulka dropped the reins and whirled as the steed broke free and bolted.

His pulse quickened as his intense gaze settled on a young man who seemed to float off the ground while flailing wildly near an oak in the distance.  Stormulka's heart froze for a moment. 
Oh no, it's Cougivil!

As the horrified lad groped at the lengthy spike protruding through his gut, blood streamed from the wound and his mouth.  He gasped.  "Storm, help me!"

Stormulka grimaced.  "I'M COMING, COUGIVIL!"  He unsheathed his sword and raced toward the victim.  As he neared and scanned for an attacker, he spotted a fuzzy, dark blob peeking from behind the tree's trunk.

A man and woman joined him as he slid to a halt. 
Blazes, what is that?
  A gigantic, black creature, with barbed bristles surrounding its body, clung to the bark with eight spindly legs.

Deafened by the clicking noise of two large, snapping pincers extending from the sides of the monster's stubby, beak-like mouth, Stormulka cupped his palms over his ears.  Above the beast's menacing chompers jutted a four-foot lance, firmly implanted into Cougivil.

While Stormulka inched forward, the hideous being with a massive, round abdomen and smaller fore-section slowly climbed the tree, lifting its prey in retreat.  Stormulka quickly pivoted to his companions.  "I need this!"  He snatched a javelin from the woman's hand, and in one motion, spun and heaved the spear toward the atrocious assailant.

The predator shrieked when the sharp blade penetrated its crusty shell just behind the head.  As it tumbled to the ground, its legs whipped aimlessly.  Stormulka charged with his sword held high, then sliced the honed edge through the gruesome creature's neck.  With his helpless friend still impaled, the heinous head tumbled, slinging gray streams across the ground.

Stormulka rushed to the young lad's side and placed a finger across the jugular — no pulse.  He closed his eyes and drew a deep breath, but the ear-shattering clicking jolted him again as if the source was right next to him.  An icy chill scattered goose bumps along his arms.  He shot a glimpse at the oozing head beside him — no movement.  A snap of his glare to the right, then to the left — nothing.

"Storm, watch out!  There's another one above you!"

Stormulka quickly glanced upward.  Two tenacious pincers snapped inches from his face.  Adrenalin exploded through his veins as a barbed claw slashed his back.

"Ahhh!"  He gritted his teeth, clenched the sword, and swiped the blade in the direction of the black, eight-legged beast, larger than the one he just killed.  A pincer and part of a leg sailed through the air.  He rolled and leapt to his feet, swinging his weapon at the spider as it dangled from a huge web strung among the branches.

The deadly assailant raised its long spike, primed to attack.  Whistling overhead, something struck the monster's abdomen.  Slimy globs erupted everywhere, coating Stormulka's hair.  He jumped aside, wiped the stinky gunk from his face, and looked up.  An arrow pierced the predator's front-section, immediately followed by another, striking the savage fiend between the eyes.

Twitching, the lifeless being swayed at the end of an extended web.

Stormulka whirled and found Mercivil with two arrows positioned across her bow.  She furrowed her brow.  "What in the world is that thing?"

"I don't know.  Maybe a giant spider, but nothing like I've seen before with that weird lance.  They must be muclones."  He pointed to the decapitated tangle of legs.  "This one killed Cougivil, and the other might have attacked more if you hadn't arrived."  He ground his teeth. 
I'm going to kill Zolokt myself!

Mercivil ran to his side.  "I heard the scream all the way from Intellulka's and came as quick as I could.  Oooh, let me look at your wound."

"Not now, I'll have Doc take care of the scratch later."

A logger yelled.  "It's moving!"  Stormulka pivoted and heard the familiar ear-piercing clatter, but at a higher pitch and much faster, as if several pincers were snapping.  The thin membrane of the headless beast's abdomen expanded and contracted as if something was trying to emerge.

A woman drew her sword.  "It's still alive, kill it!"  She lifted her weapon.

Mercivil raised her arm.  "No!  Don't puncture..."  Too late.

The young lady thrust the point into the huge, black sphere.  When she retracted the blade, small, spindly legs swiftly emerged from the opening.  More appeared, tugging at the gash's edge until they ripped it apart.  Suddenly, several little spider-like creatures scurried out of their shredded mother's sac, scattering in all directions.

Stormulka's eyes bulged.  "Hurry, don't let them escape!  Kill them!"  He sliced an offspring in half as workers chased the others.

Grabbing two arrows at a time, Mercivil fired rapidly, occasionally hitting one but often striking two of the eight-legged devils.  She zeroed in on a creepy crawler scaling a maple and pegged it to the trunk.

Stormulka and the others kept slashing, whacking, and smashing until all motion from the cursed critters ceased.  He cautiously surveyed the scene.  Each of the 20 or so baby monsters was transformed to a grotesque splotch of mangled legs.

He turned toward Mercivil.  "We finally squashed them all.  I'm going to get Protuk to scout the trees and the rest of the village.  Then I'll have Intellulka examine these grisly abominations.  Will you take Cougivil to Doc's and console his family?"