Chapter 1 Joseph Sledmire’s senses were overwhelmed by darkness and nausea, his mind submerged in an abyss of black. A sickening taste soured his mouth. Something cut into his wrists and ankles, as a monster headache pounded the walls of his skull. Memories oozed into his groggy mind. He remembered leaving his office. Stepping into the dimly-lit street. Locking the door. Peering down at his phone to check messages. Becoming aware of hurried footsteps approaching from behind.