Miss the Mark Series
Book 3
Apocalyptic Thriller
Adrienna Dionna Turner
Dream Your Reality Prophecies (DYRP)
Miss the Mark Series
Book 1: Tormented Dreams
Book 2: Outcry, Shalom!
Book 3: Marked Souls
Book 4: Nick of Time
Book 5: Diabolical Invasion
Book 6: Armageddon’s Bloodshed
Book 7: Christ Coming
Author’s Site: http://www.adriennaturner.net
OTHER BOOKS & NOVELS PUBLISHED BY AUTHOR:
Poetry Writings:
From the Depths of My Soul: Poetry & Songs
Half of The Battle Is to Surrender All I Have (poetry)
Nonfiction Writings:
The Day Begins with Christ (updated title: Begin with Christ)
Begin with Christ Companion Journal
God is in the Equation
Desire at Will
Unleashing the Spirits, Vol. 1
Unleashing the Spirits, Vol. 2
Unleashing the Spirits, Vol. 3
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Young Adult Fiction/Inspirational Drama:
Mirrors Lie Adrienna D Turner writing as Dream Summore
This book is a work of fiction.
All Scripture quotations and explanations are derived from the New International Version, unless otherwise noted.
Marked Souls by Adrienna Turner © 2008, 2018-2019.
ISBN13: 978-1-945822-10-0/1-945822-10-4 (eBook version)
All Rights Reserved.
Printed in U.S.A.
The names, characters, dialogue, incidents, companies, organizations, and places, except for incidental references to public figures, products or services, are the product of the author's imagination. Any references or similarities to actual events, real people, living or dead, or to real locales are intended to give the novel a sense of reality. Any similarity in other names, characters, places, and incidents is entirely coincidental and unintentional. The author and ministry (DYRP) have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information contained in this book and assumes no responsibility for any errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or inconsistencies contained herein.
No part of this book may be reproduced, transmitted or used in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means now known or hereafter invented, including, but not limited to, xerography, photocopying and recording, or by any information storage or retrieval system, without the express written permission of the author, excepting brief quotes used in reviews or interviews.
This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. It may not be re-sold or given away to other people. Please purchase your own copy or give away as a gift. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author. For bulk purchases, please contact the author or DYRP.
Developmental Editor: Karen Overturf
Cover design by Adrienne Thompson II
Dream 4 More Firm: http://www.Dream4more.org
Email: [email protected]
Adrienna Turner: adriennaturner.net
Booking Adrienna Turner for speaking engagements, seminars, conferences, etc., contact via email to send media kit, bio, or honorarium.
Published by DYRP, Sacramento, CA, USA.
Dedication
I would like to dedicate this novel to all those who made this book possible such as my editor, cover designer, encouragers, reviewers, advertising, and those who helped with choosing cover(s), and those who have prayed for this to come to pass.
Preface
Before starting this novel, you may be asking yourself what is the Mark? The Mark of God is earned by following God’s laws, standards, and living a righteous life. However, when we read in the book of Genesis, where the first murder occurred—we learned jealousy, rather than brotherly love, had clouded Cain’s mind and fomented the intentions that lead to killing his brother, Abel. God not only ordered Cain to leave his family, his home, and to wander the streets, He placed a mark on his head. This marking let others know of his crime, and if anyone else killed him, they would suffer seven times Cain’s punishment for their crime.
“The wicked person watches the righteous person and seeks to kill him.” (Psalm 37:32, GW).
Very soon, believers in Christ will be offered a chance to receive the Mark of the Beast, which allows the world and the worldly leader under the influence of Satan to come between you and God. Christians can shut the door to Satan (See Genesis 4:7; James 1:14-15; Hebrews 13:5). Satan has a desire for you and lures you by your selfish desires. While we indulge in our selfishness, Satan lies ready to pounce, attract, and deceive, once you’ve opened that door.
In this novel, you will witness the ways selected characters choose to master and subdue the wiles of the devil (Satan). You will be given thought processes that you may have previously been unaware of in our modern tech-savvy world. According to Romans 3:23—we have all missed the mark. Sin that puts our choices and material things above what God wants, or above God’s place in our lives, is idolatry. The root of idolatry (breaking the second commandment) is covetousness. Every greedy person is coveting what another person has, desiring the things of this world and the prestige and honor bestowed by man (see Colossians 3:5). Furthermore, you will see how it is possible that some people can’t accept God’s ways, and choose to take the Mark of the Beast.
Hebrews 13:5: “Don’t love money. Be happy with what you have because God has said, “I will never abandon you or leave you.”
“Surrender yourself to the Lord, and wait patiently for him. Do not be preoccupied with [an evildoer] who succeeds in his way when he carries out his schemes.” (Psalm 37:7, GW).
PROLOGUE
Witness
Tavon and Javon Whitmore
After they’d returned to the house, Dr. Lead quickly arrived, and gave Roya a sedative for the obvious signs of shock she was experiencing. While she slept, Dr. Lead checked her for a non-traceable implant, similar to that which had been in Solomon, and found none.
The men convened in the kitchen to enact a new plan of action after disabling their phones.
Joshua rubbed his forehead. “Guys.”
His plaintive voice drew their attention.
“Roya tells us that Task Force Alliance knew of all our meeting places.” He stretched his hand out, seeming to point at each of them directly, and continued, “This makes our homes a dangerous place to be.”
Isaiah rubbed his chin. “Agreed.”
“Dad had that old missile silo land,” Tavon blurted.
“Silo. Let’s go,” Isaiah said abruptly.
“It might be time we got the older vehicles you all prepared and we meet there,” Tavon said.
“I agree. It’s time for off the grid,” Joshua added.
Others nodded in agreement.
“We’ll have to do it individually, and quietly, as a bunch of people driving together in antique vehicles is bound to appear strange,” Isaiah responded.
“What do you mean, antique?”
“Vehicles that didn’t have computerized components. Mostly mechanical, without all the forward collision protection and communication capabilities the newer vehicles have,” Isaiah said, slightly raising his hands.
“You got it,” Joshua stood, thumbing up, indicating he was ready to leave.
“What about Mom? She’s still sleeping,” Javon spoke up as he jumped up to touch Joshua’s shoulder.
“We’re grateful that Task Force didn’t kill her,” Isaiah said, and hung his head.
“She’s not tracked,” Joshua responded, turning to Javon, “We’ll let her sleep. We’ll move her gently. She won’t wake up.”
�
�They didn’t use their more advanced technology,” Isaiah continued.
“True,” Joshua added.
Shooting a glance at Stuart, Isaiah continued, “We need to move her first.” He pointed at the sleeping Roya.
“We’ll choose the roomiest vehicle, so she is comfortable. I’ll be careful.” Turning to Javon and Tavon, Stuart said, “You guys, one of you go open the Cadillac and I’ll carry your mom.”
Isaiah watched as Stuart gently cradled Roya in his muscular arms, and said, “Stuart, you take the first watch.”
“Done.”
“And then I’ll take the second watch while you fetch my family and bring them to the silo.” he gently patted himself, “Josh, you take the last one.”
“Sure,” Joshua stood still as he watched Tavon return from the garage.
“We’ll communicate by giving each one a heads up. No telephone communications.”
Javon spoke up, “What about us?”
“Whatcha mean?”
“Don’t you want us to stand guard, too?”
Isaiah rose from his seat and placed one hand on each of the twins. “Men, you and Joy are all your Mom has right now.”
“We know that,” Javon said.
“Well. We’re not putting you in danger.”
“Then, what should we do?” Javon questioned.
“Stuart is taking her to the car. Take everything you need, and get your family ready, because you’re our priority,” Isaiah said sternly as he held his hand high to punctuate their position and nodded his head. “We’ll meet you at the silo.”
Roya awoke the next morning and surveyed the silo, seeing her boys sitting by her side. A dank, musty smell greeted her.
“Where are we?” She demanded as she glared at the walls. “Talk to me! Are we captured? Again?” Roya’s body began to shake.
She rose, unable to get her footing. Tavon quickly reached for her and held her close to his side. He felt her shivering. Her fingertips were frozen. He couldn’t imagine what she had undergone. Javon reached over as he stepped in front of her. He shook his head.
“No, Mom. We’re fine.”
“Where are we? Like I asked before. Speak.” Her voice rose.
Tavon responded, “Mom. Dad showed us this place.”
“What?” She responded with a touch of irritation in her voice. Why would Solomon hide this from me?
“He didn’t want to worry you, but knew we might need it. The house has been abandoned.” He watched Roya’s eyes as they widened in realization. He sensed she was taking all this in.
Roya muttered, “Your Dad? This place?” She finally nodded.
“Gabriel. Saved me.” She placed her hand on her chest. “Us.” She moved her hands towards them.
“Yes, he did.” Tavon said.
She lightly tapped Tavon to let her go.
She crisscrossed her feet as she attempted to walk, nearly stumbling, and maintained her balance to mosey to Terry. She extended her hand. She touched him with a light shake. “Thank you for your help, Terry. You didn’t have to.”
“Girl, I had to be there once I saw—” He stopped midsentence.
Roya let go of the light grip. He hugged her.
“We’re family. My pleasure to help, Sis.” He cracked a smile. His eyes welled to tears.
She nodded. She garbled her words, “Watched Gerald.”
“Gerald?” Terry quizzed. He tilted his head to the side, showing concern for Roya, wondering if she was losing her sanity. He shook his head at the twins.
She stuttered, “Watched Gerald die by Les’ hands.”
“Huh?” His mouth gasped.
“Do you get what I’m saying?” She waved her hands. “Les killed Gerald.” Spittle hit Terry as he gently wiped his face. He took a few steps back to avoid another shower of spit-talk.
“Sergeant shot Les between his eyes. Here.” She pounded her fingers on her forehead, between her eyes. She continued to tap, until she left a pink print on her light complexion.
Sunny sauntered to her and held her hand, to stop her fingers pounding. She glared at her until she gave her a quick stare. “Sis, I’m here.”
“I’m fine. Telling you what I saw,” Roya turned to gaze steadily at Sunny.
“What do you need?” Sunny offered gently. “Here, you sit on the sofa, and I’ll get you some water.”
“Sunny!” Roya stared at Sunny’s back as she left the room.
“Miller shot Les in the head. Pow!” She pointed at her head, forming a gun with her fingers. “He should’ve dropped to the ground. Just a spot of black blood, very dark red,” She tapped her head again. “Les’ head turned. Clear around!” she exclaimed as she moved her arm from her left to her right. “He didn’t die! He rose up, and made Miller’s hand turn the gun on himself,” she stuttered sharply.
Tavon’s eyes darted at the other men in the room who’d helped rescue her. Terry had a confused look, rubbing his arms as if he was cold. Isaiah stood in position, staring blankly, observant and ready for anything. One of the women praise singers came to his side and he wrapped his arm around her. She smacked a kiss on his cheek. Tavon gazed and shook his head—trying to remember the lady’s name. He knew she was Isaiah’s wife. Mila? Mika? No…it’s Micah.
Stuart stormed in with two young men who trailed behind.
“Stuart. Good. You got my boys!” Isaiah said, walking toward Stuart. “Thanks, man,” He grabbed his arm and shook his hand.
“Anything for you man,” Stuart responded. “We’ve got just about everyone.”
Tavon glanced at them, one resembling Isaiah and his name clicked—this was Isaiah Junior. He was a younger Isaiah with a smooth creamy skin tone, light brown eyes, and curly light brown hair to match, and stood about the same height as him. The younger brother whizzed past Tavon with a low “hi.”
“Hey, Kiel,” Tavon muttered. He knew that Ekiel was twenty-something, but closer to his age.
“Jesus!” Roya screamed as tears streamed down her face.
“Mom, I’m here,” Tavon rubbed her back and held her closer. He felt his heart racing. His throat itched and he swallowed.
“He’s gone, baby,” She turned and cupped his chin. “Your father is gone from me, forever.”
“No, Mom.” Tavon said with boldness.
“Forever—like I said. He’s gone forever on this earth,” she said as drool dripped from the side of her mouth.
“We’ll see him again in the heavenly skies,” Tavon said, attempting to comfort her soul and heart. He wished he could help her—he could see her world was crashing before her feet. She fell to her knees.
“Dad.” Ekiel said, looking at his father, Isaiah. “We saw what happened to—”
“Sshh,” Isaiah extended his free hand towards Roya. A lone tear fell from his eye. “Best not to say his name until things cool down.”
Ekiel nodded in agreement, “Sorry.”
He patted his hand. “It’s okay.”
Javon walked over to Roya, to help Tavon lift her.
Tavon tried to lift her from the other side. “Mom’s fighting us.”
Javon grunted and nodded. “We should be able to lift her from the floor though.”
Tavon looked over his shoulder. “Let’s take her to the sofa.”
“Got it.”
She stretched herself out on the sofa, dangling her feet over the edge, and waved her hands frantically, yelling Solomon’s name. Joy rushed to Roya, and sat on the floor, next to her mother. She cried and screamed loudly with her mother’s wails, groans, and moans. “Mom, I love you. Please, don’t—"
Jewel sauntered to fan Roya.
Sweat soaked Roya’s clothes, rolled down her face, and drool slid from the sides of her mouth—she was in bad shape.
“We have to do something, Dad,” Isaiah Jr. cried.
“She must be having an awful time after losing half her family,” Ekiel said.
“We can only pray on her behalf,” Isaiah offered. He lowered his
head.
Tavon felt a presence in the room. He knew his eyes were not tricking him moments ago—an angelic being. He was a beautiful sight, better than any movie could make it. His tongue felt numb. He then felt a tingling sensation. His body shivered. His heart ached for his mother. His mind’s eye saw a glimpse of his father—Solomon Whitmore. He felt a gush of wind. He surveyed the room, seeing the wind blow things across the room, and watched the women’s skirts sway to the side. Stuart’s cap flew off his head. He felt the floor underneath him shake. He felt the vibrations shoot through his feet, up through his spine and tingle at the base of his cranium. Javon raced to his side. He clasped his brother’s hand. Both boys shook and stiffened.
“What’s happening?” Sondrea yelled.
“What’s wrong? Tavon! Javon!” Joy shrieked.
Roya sat upright, staring without blinking.
Joy looked up, “Mom, what’s going on?”
Jewel leaned in and squatted to her knees, holding Roya and then Joy in her arms. Her eyes became watery. She kept saying the name of the Savior.
Sunny sang a hymn and her voice sounded as if angels were singing with her. Sondrea knew the hymn and joined in. The other praise members reached for each other’s hands and sang too.
Isaiah held his wife, Micah, and his sons embraced them.
Isaiah Junior stood back, and touched Isaiah’s shoulder, “Dad, is Jesus returning?”
Isaiah answered, “Honestly, I’m not sure what’s going on, son.”
“Are we ready?” Ekiel and Micah said in unison.
Sondrea’s head turned abruptly. She raced through the group to one of the bedrooms near the common living quarters. Some were frightened. Others were singing. Some mumbled prayers. Isaiah stood and held his family. Sondrea stepped out with a young girl in her arms.
“Who’s that?” Javon blurted.
“I don’t know bro,” Tavon released his hand.
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