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ones,” Grant said.
    As soon as he spoke he regretted his choice of words. This would only result in Ian handing out more lessons.
    â€œOf course,” Grant said, “I am aware of the ever-­shifting global climate.”
    â€œIndulge me,” Ian said. “Speak about Ireland.”
    â€œIreland is a series of islands in the Atlantic Ocean,” Grant said. “They have grown significantly in size, taking over what was once referred to as Scandinavia as soon as the Great War was over. About thirty years ago the former United Kingdom came under their control as well. Ireland was one of the few countries who stayed out of the Great War and were met with little resistance when they acquired their new lands since their neighbors were broke and beaten from the battles.”
    â€œHmmm,” Ian said.
    Grant thought the man would be impressed by his knowledge. He wasn’t finished yet.
    â€œSome ­people would say they are the second-­strongest country next to America, since they have a strong economy, but their armed forces are nothing next to ours. Our international relations with them are weak at best. They detest our way of life. I believe it is safe to say their leaders will not be invited to the festivities.”
    Ian took a breath before responding.
    â€œThey are not on our guest list,” Ian said. “I must say I am a little alarmed that a private citizen like yourself has access to such knowledge.”
    â€œI previously confessed to you, sir, that I have been known to stroll the international Internet from time to time.”
    â€œI suppose I should take some comfort that you are aware of what is happening in the world yet stay loyal to American principles. If others have also found a way to step outside our guards maybe they feel the same.”
    â€œI am confident there are no others,” Grant said.
    Ian gave a half smile and nodded his head. Grant was not the average American. He was special in many ways, including his technological advances.
    â€œYou are wrong about Ireland though,” Ian said.
    Grant tried his best to look interested and not annoyed, making sure he raised his eyebrows in the least condescending way possible.
    â€œThe countries didn’t put up little resistance,” Ian said. “They put up no resistance, opting instead to welcome the shield of the Irish flag. We don’t want that to happen again.”
    â€œIf countries think they can go to Ireland for aid over America it would not benefit the country?”
    â€œIt is necessary to avoid an attack on America at all costs,” Ian said. “Remember that. Keep many men stationed overseas, give aid to foreign countries who are worthy.”
    â€œThat is a fine idea, sir.”
    Ian again nodded his head, happy with Grant’s answers. He switched the subject back to the gifts and Grant started fantasizing again. Only a few more weeks, then the official announcement would be made and Grant would no longer have to repeat Ian’s sentiments. Once he was grand commander Grant would squash any Irish threat by sending the men stationed in Europe into their country. He would give the go-­ahead to destroy anything and everyone, sending a message to the whole world that America would always reign supreme.

 
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    HarperCollins Publishers
    ....................................
    Chapter 16
    My heart is still racing. I came across my first group of survivors. Fellow soldiers who also returned to this catastrophe. They were nice at first, but one attacked me. I shot him and ran. I have never taken a life on American soil before, but I fear this won’t be my last.
    â€”­The diary of Megan Jean
    â€œI sip a full glass of water,” Mia said.
    She repeated the phrase, making sure to draw out her vowels. Tomorrow was the day they left for America and Mia worried her French accent wasn’t going to fool anyone at this point. A