A Crying Shame (142 page)

Bad, then.”

The Link looked at Joe for a long moment; it was a curious look.
How are we bad? Our people cared for you. Protected you as a child. Fed you until you could be taken to the lights and big buildings and the others who were more like you. Tell me, how does that make us bad?”

Your time has passed. It is over for you and your kind.”

The screaming as Doug was pushed into the pit brought cold sweat to Joe's forehead. His heart thudded in his chest. He fought to contain his fear, clenching his hands into fists at his side. He knew only too well what was in that pit.

The blue-eyed Link smiled—grimly.
Perhaps that is true,” he signaled and grunted.
But it will be over for you
first
.”

Doug's howling was one of pure madness and unbearable agony.

I am not afraid of death,” Joe said.
I have my God.”

God?”

My creator.”

The Link shook his head.
I do not understand any of this.”

The being who gave me life; whose son shed his blood for me.”

Your mother gave you life. She bled. Bled as you were birthed. I know, I was there.”

That ain't the same!”