The Continuum Code (Science Fiction)

Seth's steps became cautious as he approached the glade. The culmination of an intense four-day trek through dense forest, living from his backpack and by his wits—and this was the place?

The cabin looked like any other primitive mountain lodge, the sort of structure kids and hikers sheltered in overnight: rough-hewn logs that bisected each other at the corners, wooden shingles, an old-style metal latch…

No windows. Seth's confidence returned. No picturesque touristy cabin lacked windows. 

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Was he supposed to meet someone here? Or was this the site of some kind of test of his resourcefulness as he waited indefinitely for further instructions? Was it, perhaps, not a cabin at all, but a cover for a subterranean command station where he would at last be introduced to the inner circle? Or was it—a chill traveled down his spine—an enemy outpost, and only survivors of the trap were received into the Return?

Seth exhaled deeply. The Return had been clear: No recruit made it through the First Step unscathed. And many did not even make it through. Anything could await him in that cabin.

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