Page 20 of Firestorm

If Pamphili was indeed the antichrist coming into power as spoken of in the Bible, then Sarah wondered how long before those who believed in Christ would be raptured. When that happened, and the church was no longer present in the world to act as a buffer against evil, then it would literally be hell on earth.

“We’ve been out of the loop since we flew here, but Pamphili will blame the explosion in Idaho on us. He’s wanting to unite the world against one common enemy. Namely, Strike Force.”

Dustin exited onto a small gravel road. “So far, so good,” he told them, his tone tense.

Sarah glanced through the windshield at the world filled with trees and snow. The beauty of the countryside presented a stark contrast to the danger they faced. “How far to the airstrip?”

James deferred the question to Dustin.

“Ten miles if we are able to keep to the roads, and we don’t run into any more trouble.”

Ten miles felt like forever.

“This road isn’t well traveled, and we’ve had a lot of snow lately. That should work in our favor unless we run into some downed trees.” Dustin kept his attention on the road while he spoke.

With the new-fallen snow, there would be no disguising their tracks.

Blake reached for her hand, drawing her attention back to him. “Sorry you had to go through that. It must have been terrifying.”

Eight years her senior, Blake had been more like a father figure at times. Especially after their parents died. He’d returned from the service and bought the ranch where he and Sarah lived because it was isolated, and he said it reminded him of the farm where they’d grown up.

“There’s nothing to be sorry for. I’m glad you’re okay.”

Blake squeezed her hand.

“Guys, I just got off the phone with Victor. There’s some disturbing news coming from Germany.” Ben was clearly worried.

Dustin turned on the radio.

The newscaster was raving about an upcoming announcement with the newly appointed president of the United World Government, the name a committee of world leaders had decided upon. Daniel Pamphili was being touted as the savior of the world. Along with Walton Kirkpatrick.

“We were told there was to be a major announcement coming soon, but those in charge are being very tightlipped about it.” The male newscaster chuckled.

“That’s right, Dale. Everyone is speculating on what the news might be. We believe it is connected to the news coming out of Idaho about an explosion,” the female announced. “We’ll just have to wait for that announcement.”

“Which appears to be ready to start now, Connie. Let’s join the broadcast.”

“There’s President Pamphili, and oh, Walton Kirkpatrick. I’m happy to see he’s feeling better. His presence here could confirm a position within Pamphili’s cabinet. Whatever the announcement will be, we know one thing. It will be unprecedented like everything else that’s taken place with these meetings.”

“Absolutely. It appears President Pamphili is ready to begin.”

Sarah had been following the news carefully over the past few days. The speed in which the decisions were being made was shocking. It was as if Pamphili had hypnotized the world leaders.

“Thank you all for coming today,” Pamphili’s soothing tone came through as almost meek. “I will keep it brief, but we have some disturbing news to bring to you.” Pamphili paused briefly. “As many of you know, our wonderful world leaders have been working hard to ensure peace for us and our future generation. But there are those who wish to undermine our efforts.”

Sarah’s troubled gaze held James’.

“Recently in Idaho a heinous attack was launched on our military by members of Strike Force, the terrorist organization that has been pretending to be working for the good of the world.”

“Oh, no,” Sarah whispered. Something horrific was coming.

“My friends, we cannot allow such acts of treason to remain unpunished. We are striving to create a peaceful world where everyone feels safe to express themselves as they feel necessary. That is why I am announcing a reward in the amount of one million dollars per person for the capture of Strike Force members.”

Sarah bit her bottom lip. Was this really happening?

“For our radio listeners,” the female reporter interrupted. “President Pamphili has posted the photos of the terrorist group’s leadership on the new website for the United World Government along with a call-in number to report sightings.”

A collective gasp filled the van. There was now a bounty on every single one of Strike Force’s heads.

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