Collection of Short Stories

Freak Revolution

It started with the bombings. Many powerful countries from all over the world had participated in a disastrous campaign of nuclear warfare; causing the deaths of millions. Unfortunately, it didn't end there. To this day, the wars are still raging fiercely in many parts of the globe and nuclear radiation has already become a major issue.

The radiation caused people to develop unnatural powers and abilities. These people were feared by others and the government and were labelled as 'freaks'. So for fear of rebellion, the leaders have assembled a team of strong, loyal soldiers known as the Council of Protectors (COPs) to exterminate anyone that had been affected by radiation.

* * *

Royce Anderson woke up in an old, abandoned shed hidden in the outskirts of his home town. He was panting for he had awakened in a cold sweat; caused by the same nightmares that haunted his dreams every night. Forcing himself to get up from a small but warm bed, he arose and quickly got changed into a white t-shirt with blue jeans as well as his favourite red jacket.

He glanced at the battered shed door and wondered if he should risk going out this morning. Royce had been forced to hide somewhere in order to avoid being caught by the COPs, which were on the hunt for anyone who had dangerous powers caused by nuclear radiation. However, he had been cooped up in the shed for about a week now and he longed to visit his little sister, Penny, who he loved more than anything else in the world.

Finally deciding to take the risk, he grabbed the handle, turned it and pushed open the door. Rays of light immediately rushed into the poorly lit shed and Royce flinched at the brightness of the sun. When his brown eyes had adjusted to the light, he cautiously walked out and quickly glanced around for anyone that might be snooping around.

When he was convinced that he was safe, he breathed in the cool, morning air and headed towards town, where the home of his sister was located. Royce followed the dirt path until he saw half-destroyed houses in sight. The town had been torn apart from fights regarding the invasion of the COPs about a week ago and homeless people could be seen sleeping on the sides of dirty streets. To avoid being recognised, he pulled his hoodie over his head and continued to walk onwards.

He soon arrived at the doorstep of his family's small and quiet house and knocked gently. After several long seconds, the door opened with a slight creak and standing at the doorway was his mother. At first, she didn't recognise him and said, "May I help you?"

Royce took off his hoodie and avoided staring directly into his mother's eyes. "Is Penny here?" He asked.

His mother gasped when she saw who it was and tears immediately started to form and roll down her pale cheeks. "Roy, I told you not to ever return. You are dangerous, and you'll only get us arrested if you stay here for too long." Even though the words sounded harsh to him, he knew deep down that his mother did not hate him, but was rather afraid of him.

That was when Penny had suddenly appeared from behind. "Please mum? Please let him stay for a short while, I promise it will be the last time," Penny begged with desperation.

Mrs Anderson sighed but avoided eye contact with Royce. "Fine, you may stay for fifteen minutes the most." And with that, she walked out of the room.

Royce looked down at his seven-year-old sister, who was smiling at him. Penny had chestnut brown eyes with short, dark brown hair that curled naturally at the end. "So... how's life treating you?" He asked nervously.

Penny ignored her brother's question.  "How come mommy and daddy won't let you stay with us?"

Royce looked at the ground and shifted uncomfortably. "Penny, you know perfectly well why I can't stay. The COPs are after me because I'm dangerous and if I stay here, you might get hurt."