Prologue
A sharp pain in my shoulder. Then in my right leg.
I stop, gasping for air.
I rest my hand against a tree; when I go on, my blood remains on that trunk, marking my passage.
I try not to think about it.
My breath condenses in the cold air.
It's almost night.
The clouds are red in the sunset. Even clouds seem to bleed.
A shy moon starts to seep through the clouds.
It's almost night and moon's light will be the only light.
I have to hurry.
My only hope of safety is to reach the Dukes' farm.
I'm afraid my strength isn't enough to reach the farm.
I have to stop more and more frequently in order to catch my breath.
My blood behind me, to mark my steps.
I try not to think about it and to go on.
Finally I see the farm, a warm light from its windows.
The General Lee, Daisy's jeep and uncle Jesse's pick-up in front of the farm. All Duke family is inside.
I stumble and I fall face down.
No. I can't give up now. I can't die so near my only chance of safety.
I'm out of breath and I can't ask for help. I try to stand up.
A sharp pain crosses every part of my body.
I reach the farm's porch.
Everything around me starts to whirlpool.
I fall down, in front of the door, but I manage to knock.
Then I don't see anything.
I hear steps coming close the door.
Shouts.
Muscle arms (my friends Bo and Luke) hold me, carrying me inside the farm.
There's warmth around me; they're laying me down, near the fireplace.
Their voices around me are confused.
I hear only my name: "Enos".
I feel they're stripping off my bloody uniform.
I hear Daisy crying and uncle Jesse telling her to go away.
Finally darkness wraps me.