30 Comments
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Krystyna Key's avatar

And dusk was setting - uh oh.

Heading over to part 2 now to see how this ends! Something suspicious about that new mall and town ...

Trevor Cohen's avatar

Intriguing. I'm wondering if John's disdain for Milly had been building up before the events of this story, or if it's coming on all at once now due to some mysterious influence in the setting. Excited for your next story :)

Michael B. Morgan's avatar

I like your take on John and Milly. What if it was all about the zone? What if the two Johns were in a superposition? Who knows... Thanks for reading and commenting, Trevor. Really.

Luke Warfield's avatar

Fantastic!

The Black Knight's avatar

It would appear that they had stumbled upon a hyperspace loop. Either that or... there were damn huge corn fields planted everywhere :)

Michael B. Morgan's avatar

You almost got it, bro. It's not a loop, but...

The Black Knight's avatar

No spoilors dude! :D

Mkwawa shujaa (M)'s avatar

I loved the slow build, I can't wait to see where this twisted road leads in Part 2.

And I never knew about Cargo cults. The way you used it was a good way to frame modern emptiness. Thank you for sharing 😊

Michael B. Morgan's avatar

Thanks, MK! I'm glad you liked it, man.

Steve Kelsey's avatar

Superb opening Michael

Steve Kelsey's avatar

It’s a grand piece Michael!

Evelyn K. Brunswick's avatar

This has a very cool Twilight Zone vibe. Bring on part 2!

Ian Patterson's avatar

Nailed the intro! Nice work Michael.

Michael B. Morgan's avatar

Thanks, man. I’m glad you liked it!

ForestClub's avatar

Amazing, Cap. The vibe you've set is really impressive!

Michael B. Morgan's avatar

Thank you, hon! I’m glad you liked it.

Michael Edward's avatar

Michael! The start of this — that first paragraph — was incredible! Such vivid and evocative imagery. I was gripped instantly. Looking forward to part 2! :)

Michael B. Morgan's avatar

You made me proud of it, bro. Thanks, I truly appreciate it ;-)

Michael Edward's avatar

My pleasure! And you totally should be proud of it man :)

Portia's avatar

Good build-up, Michael.

Michael B. Morgan's avatar

Grazie, Portia, sono lieto che ti sia piaciuto. La tua opinione è preziosa per me.

Bruce Landay's avatar

It will be interesting to see where this goes…

Michael B. Morgan's avatar

I’ll try to wow you! Well, it’s just a hope :)

Caitriana NicNeacail's avatar

Really strong, atmospheric descriptions here, and such a creeping sense of unease! Looking forward to Part 2!

Michael B. Morgan's avatar

Thanks, Caitriana. I appreciate your kind words. I hope I can keep up that same level in part two!