It's always a pleasure to read a story where even the background details are given a unique flavor. You weren't describing any old cookie cutter group of people living in any area to be pasted into any story. These townspeople belong to this story and to convey so much character with a few sentences tells of your talent with writing.
You lured me, unsuspecting of what was to come. As the sweet memories of his loved family gave way to a nightmare. Giving us a taste of the other side of chasing dreams, worry, people left behind, and regret.
This was a fantastic story, Dirge and well deserving of a vote from the Curie community. Congratulations!
--Bris