Great story. I must be thick because I still can't figure out Inessa's warning. She is a chess player, so I figure it is there subtly, but after several rereads I still don't see it.
Whew - relief at that last paragraph! I had to reread to notice how much time passed between the end of Inessa’s monitoring and the clasp of the helmet: enough! Go girl! Before the end, I was starting a sequel in my head. I was Colin in Boise transmitting back: On second thought, you should come here. We have 4 distinct seasons and just the right amount of snow. 😂😂
“You walk. Start now, and the ice will be frozen by the time you reach Big Diomede in Alaska," this lines gave me an incredible sense of wanterlust. I know it's meant to be daunting, but the idea of hiking across a vast, empty, post-apocalypse town and country wilderness seems peaceful - a meditative test of endurance.
Great writing, especially the cross and double-cross.
I just re-read this one, Bill. A chilling story with a perfect ending. Yikes! I thank you for recommending 🍁Leaves, my friend. I received five new subscriptions from your readers this month!
Engrossing, chilling and surprising! Loved reading this.
Lots of twists and turns in such little time. Loved it
Great story. I must be thick because I still can't figure out Inessa's warning. She is a chess player, so I figure it is there subtly, but after several rereads I still don't see it.
Love me a dystopian short story. Lots of twists in this one.
Whew - relief at that last paragraph! I had to reread to notice how much time passed between the end of Inessa’s monitoring and the clasp of the helmet: enough! Go girl! Before the end, I was starting a sequel in my head. I was Colin in Boise transmitting back: On second thought, you should come here. We have 4 distinct seasons and just the right amount of snow. 😂😂
I really liked that, Bill. Great twist at the end. Interesting concept all around. Well written, and impactful. Maybe a second part coming?
Wow, Bill. I hope you can come up with Part Two! Interesting concept.
One of your best works Bill.
“You walk. Start now, and the ice will be frozen by the time you reach Big Diomede in Alaska," this lines gave me an incredible sense of wanterlust. I know it's meant to be daunting, but the idea of hiking across a vast, empty, post-apocalypse town and country wilderness seems peaceful - a meditative test of endurance.
Great writing, especially the cross and double-cross.
I was waiting for the twist, knowing your stories, but no, you still got me, i had no idea - again, thanks!
Super strong narrative. Compelling, and mighty imaginative. Lovely stuff, Bill ... not for the first time!
I just re-read this one, Bill. A chilling story with a perfect ending. Yikes! I thank you for recommending 🍁Leaves, my friend. I received five new subscriptions from your readers this month!
I always enjoy your stories, Bill. Keep 'em coming!
Love the twists! Very engaging work! Thanks for the reminder to charge my phone :)
I really enjoyed the subversion of (my) expectations!
I love twist endings. Good one!