A new war has started, but who is the warrior and who is the enemy?

It was nearly 10:00 p.m. before the crowd around the minister dispersed and Pastor Moses was standing alone.

Donny pointed to Moses, “Stone, let’s get these forms signed, and then get out of here. We’ve already missed the last bus. We’ve got to walk home.”

Stone calmly approached Moses as the minister started to climb the stairs. He pulled out two pieces of paper, unfolded the forms for the minister to sign. He handed the forms with a black pen to Moses.

“Thank you for coming to the meeting tonight.” Moses scribbled his name twice and handed the forms back to Stone. “Did you boys get a list?” Pastor Moses pointed to the lists his wife had printed and left on the kitchenette formica counter.

Donny picked up another half a dozen lists from the counter and waved to the Pastor and Stone.

“Good night, boys. Thank you for showing up tonight. You’re becoming a regular in the pews on Sundays. I appreciate your attendance.”

“So does the Sheriff,” Donny whispered to Stone under his breath.

“Yes, thank you. Good night.” Stone answered for both of them.

“Take more if you like.” Moses pointed to the counter.

They all walked up the steps and the boys exited through the heavy wood front doors. The boys waved goodnight. The wind was growing stronger, and the air was ominously heavy with static. Moses looked up at the tarp on the roof of the chapel. Moses hoped that the tarp would hold through the night. There was a hurricane alert for the coast. Moses locked the church doors from inside. 

“I need a cigarette. Let’s walk to the 24/7 and pick up a pack.” Donny pointed in the direction of the strip mall. Donny waved his handful of bounty forms. “Do you see my name on any of these lists?”

The boys stood under a streetlight as Stone checked each list.

“Nope. You’re not on any of these.” 

The boys stepped into the night and headed on foot towards the mall.