Jasper was a father, a veteran, a husband, and a man with a great sense of humor; but most of all, he was my friend and a true Patriot. I hope he is somewhere at this very moment passing around his boundless goodness to others as he did while he still lived among us. I miss my friend and always will. I miss him because he was the kind of a friend that, if we’re lucky, we find once in our lifetimes.
My enduring thanks to both of them for their friendship and for the good luck that I have had for knowing both of them. I only wish everyone could have such good friends as Nancy and Jasper.
L. Michael Rusin
Acknowledgments
The author would like to acknowledge the efforts of the team of men and women who worked so hard to make changes to Avalon: The Retreat, in order to make this final result, presented for your reading pleasure.
My grateful thanks goes out to the following: Kamel Press, and the team there, because it’s where the magic happens! Kermit Jones, Jr., for having the vision to see Avalon’s potential and the dedication to see it through. Joseph Gueary, for jumping on board and driving a project (and Kermit) with nothing more than an invitation. Deanie Deitterick, a phenomenal Senior Editor who has much wisdom to offer, and who (thankfully) sticks to her guns. Rhonda Jones, for ensuring clarity and follow-through. Meredith Sump, a magician of digital media and graphics. Kari Jones, for having a degree of patience, support, and belief few can comprehend. Jennifer Latigue, for her great attention to detail.
My gratitude to you all cannot be measured. Thank you very much.
L. Michael Rusin
Table of Contents
Avalon: The Retreat
Chapter 1 The Balloon Pops
Chapter 2 The Cache
Chapter 3 Sanctuary
Chapter 4 Wayward Victim
Chapter 5 Forgotten Trail
Chapter 6 Crowning Glory
Chapter 7 Coming Home
Chapter 8 Safe and Sound
Chapter 9 Societal Decay
Chapter 10 Rescue Party
Chapter 11 The Rescue
Chapter 12 Together at Avalon
Chapter 13 Life at Avalon
Chapter 14 A World at War
Chapter 15 Fire from Below
Chapter 16 Turmoil and Peace
Chapter 17 Cabin Fever
Chapter 18 The Beginning
Chapter 19 Silent Sentinels
Chapter 20 Lessons Learned
Chapter 21 First Christmas
Chapter 22 Hanging by a Thread
Chapter 23 The New Flag
Chapter 24 Dangerous Journey
Chapter 25 Cabin in the Woods
Chapter 26 The Children’s Brigade
Chapter 27 The Trek Continues
Chapter 28 Fitch
Chapter 29 The Smell of Death
Chapter 30 Desperation
Chapter 31 The Slaver’s Camp
Chapter 32 The Bee’s Nest
Chapter 33 Bone Breaker
Chapter 34 United
Chapter 35 The Firefight
Chapter 36 Regroup: Slaver Faceoff
Chapter 37 Rebuilding with Hope
Chapter 38 We the People
Chapter 39 The East Coast
Chapter 40 The Rest of the Story
Chapter 41 Epilogue
Get a sneak peek…
1. Scavengers
2. Down & Dirty
About the Author
Dedication
Acknowledgments
Avalon: The Retreat Page 34
