Twitch, like Matt, probably Death Zone, and definitely the old Doc, had survived the End 33 or 34 years ago. With civilization fallen apart at the seams, nobody had managed to keep a good calendar at first, so now there was some disagreement as to when today actually was. Matt was thirteen at the End, living with his family in Flagstaff. Twitch was eight, living with his young father, in L.A. When Matt had strong support in a determined family, even if they were somewhat lacking in skills, Twitch had a couple of years of fear. Turning to a life of explosive chemistry hadn’t helped his apparent edginess.

“What’s new in Tucson?” asked Matt.

“Those two for a start.” Twitch jabbed a quick finger towards Matt’s companions. “Who are they?”

“This is Death Zone. This is…”

“Doc Halliday,” said the Doc helpfully.

“Seriously?”

“Is your name seriously Twitch?”

“Fair enough. You guys need work? Lots of work for mercs and docs around here.”

Twitch pulled Matt aside and said quietly “Eye’s looking for you.”