Sister World 2 The Fight for Earth: Sister World, #2

By Debra Zannelli

Sister World 2, The Fight for Earth begins where Sister World 1, The Arrival ends.  Having arrived on Earth, Kahill and Becarra assembled a new resistance.  With the help of Dr.'s Charles and Sam Benjamin, Peter and Becky and the people and animals of Griffen Island, Kahill begins Operation Switchback.  The audacious plan to put Earth's leaders back in their places depends on the bravery and trust of many and the dedication of those willing to risk their lives.  As the many facets come together it becomes a dangerous battle to rescue those taken, capture the imposters and keep the enemy from learning about the plan until it is too late.  Enigmatic characters, carry us forward to a world of adventure and danger.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Debra Zannelli
• Release date: Sep 8, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393013969

Book preview

PROLOGUE

Sister World I began with Kahill and Cara of Tera, learning the existence of Earth, a planet in an alternate universe, and the wormhole that is the gateway to it. Knowing Frauliege, Terah’s despotic leader, is sending her people to this new world, replacing Earth’s leaders with hers, they braved the wormhole. Arriving on Griffen Island, a small island off the coast of Canada, they locate their mirrors; Peter, Becky, and their father Dr. Samuel Benjamin.

The Zians, using a bird-carrying flu, have isolated Griffen from the rest of the world. As the landing pad for the wormhole, it is the base for the Zian invasion. General Hinman, commander of their forces, is looking for Drs. Samuel and Charles Benjamin for their knowledge of the wormhole and the contacts they have with those who could save Earth.

Eve Conner, the local news anchor, having sought refuge from those taking over the station, upon finding out the truth behind the flu, bravely returned to the station, becoming a spy. From her, the resistance learned the local fishing fleet has been captured. When the fleet captain’s execution is planned, the new resistance, with the help of TEV, a thought-emotion vocalizer, making communication between peoples and animals possible, a rescue is planned. Kahill, assuming command, plans the mission using the most unusual army ever assembled. Together, the island’s animals, the students rescued from Peter’s school, Dr. Benjamin and his family, and Becarra and Kahill, the fishermen are rescued. Nathan, the apprentice of the island’s only doctor, hiding in the mountains surrounding the island, sees the battle, and, following the smoke of the resistance’s fire, discovers their hideout. Kahill reveals the place he made ready to be the headquarters of Earth’s resistance. The mirror of the one on Terah. This is where our story begins.

1

REALITIES

W e welcome Nathan. He is doctor. I learned something of great importance from his coming. We cannot stay here. We knew it dangerous to stay because of eyes in the sky. Kahill looked at the coverings the young made. This helps, but it doesn’t disguise smoke. Even without airplanes, we have been discovered.

We’ll be more careful with the fires. Karin looked over to the shelves her parents’ grocery store had helped fill. Look at all we’ve done.

It doesn’t protect us from the cold, not when we cannot light a fire, Kahill said. This place won’t be abandoned. There are many things we can keep here.

Kahill pointed to the small cave on the other side of the pool. There may be times when others will need to hide. They will be warm inside the cave. It will be an outpost. But we must go someplace where we can all be warm.

Where will we go? Jenny’s voice was a cry.

Some of the men grumbled, but a simple gesture from Devon told them to listen.

I didn’t tell you because I was unsure. Kahill looked into Peter’s eyes, apologizing. Then Peter took us here, and it seemed best to stay.

Peter’s steady eyes said the apology was accepted.

When we arrived, we found the place used by my people on Terah. It is resistance headquarters. There are many of us, our families living there. Kahill forced himself not to pace.

Cara went to her brother. Tomorrow, we will take you there. There will be room for all.

Help still, we will, as before. TEV’s voice rang out.

Everyone turned to see Wormfinder perching on the rocks close to where Cara stood. Cara smiled through trembling lips. Wormfinder. I saw…. There were so many wounded. Did many die?

It is so. The bird’s head fell, resting on his dark black crest. We owe heavy debt Bentwing and those we call the Elders.

The rats? Becky watched as Wormfinder turned her way.

Speak of small ones that came? Wormfinder’s eyes, like jewels, gazed into hers.

Why do you call them the Elders? Finn, sitting in the back, called out.

Story passed from oldest to youngest. Wormfinder paused for a moment. The rats you call, here before we flew. They first to walk on land. It said they will be here when we no longer fly. All fear them. I not understand until see fight. Small, but much big in battle. They came no fear and we free to fly away.

Wormfinder’s feathers ruffled. Why call rats?

Behind Cara, a few sailors chuckled.

Cara shrugged. I don’t know how they got the name.

Don’t ask me. Finn’s voice rose over the others.

Cara waited until their laughter died. I asked Bentwing to tell you to send your wounded to us. We have a doctor now. We’ll all do what we can to help them.

Wormfinder nodded, his dark eyes searching among the men. Seeing Nathan standing beside Sam he once again nodded.

Devon reached out to TEV. Cara, can I talk to him?

She nodded, carefully placing TEV in his hands.

Walking over to the bird, Devon was glad to see it didn’t fly away. You fought to save me, to set us free. I am sorry for your losses. He pressed his fist against his heart. The others seeing the gesture, followed suit.

Spreading graceful wings, Wormfinder’s head bobbed, then, catching the wind, he sailed on the soft current and was quickly out of sight.

They’re brave. Devon went back to where he had been sitting, addressing everyone and no one. It is difficult for me.

For all of us, Olaf, sitting in the back, called over.

Devon ran his hands through his hair. I never thought much about the animals. I don’t think I ever really thought about them at all. I didn’t give them credit for being anything other than creatures acting on instinct. I didn’t think they were smart or had feelings. I couldn’t have been more wrong.

It’s okay, Dev. Mickey laid his head on his father’s muscular thigh. It’s never too late to learn something. That’s what my teachers say.

TEV—Devon gently handed TEV back to Cara— is priceless. The warmth in his eyes faded. What about our families? They’re in danger, especially now.

There is room at headquarters, Kahill answered. We will go at first light tomorrow and make place ready for them.

Why aren’t we going now? Finn rose, the smell of salty air still clinging to his clothes. Pushing dusty-brown hair away from his eyes, he turned his back to Kahill, stepping over to Devon. I think we should…

Work together, Kahill interrupted, speaking with the authority he’d often heard in his father’s voice. Zians won’t take your families until they can be replaced. There still too few to fight all island. Before wormhole returns, we have families safe. Tomorrow, you learn way to go, then we will get them. When you get families, you must be unseen. We cannot let headquarters be discovered. Discovered here, means discovered on Terah.

Kahill watched while the men thought about what he had just told them. Looking at the small group surrounding him, Kahill’s gaze rested on Devon.

Your war just begun, cannot be won with bullets, must use thoughts, Kahill said. Fighting over who is big boss means losing the war, your world.

Devon went to Kahill’s side. Only a little taller, it was the broad expanse of a chest close to twice as wide as Kahill’s, the muscles ringing his thick arms, that made the two so different. As with most of the sailors, Devon had the light-brown hair and straight nose common of Nordic people. The softness of slightly rounded cheeks were offset by the danger in his eyes. He smiled, and the air seemed to thin.

We’re not used to taking orders from someone so young. We’re men of action, not used to waiting, and we’re ready to fight, not hide. But we have a lot of learning to do. Devon faced his men, eyes forcing Finn to back away. Kahill and Becarra are not children. We need to listen to them. Dr. Benjamin will have to teach us about the wormhole, how it works. Hell, in my case, what it is.

He will explain when stronger, and we are all safe. Kahill could see the men still fidgeting. We must give him this one day to grow stronger. He felt the breeze from many approaching wings rustling his hair. I think the wounded are coming.

Finn moved back to where he’d been sitting. Lowering himself to the ground, he waited to see what the rustling would bring.

Kahill, seeing Dag bouncing on the balls of his feet, went over. You say you in Navy. We may have need of people you know, people you trust.

I was. Dag, tall and slender, bent towards Kahill, holding out his hand. Light hair, highlighted a narrow nose sitting between undefined cheeks. I learned to defer to experience. Shake on it.

Kahill tried to remember the way Devon had taken his hand, mimicking the motions.

Time to eat, Cara called, fighting hard not to laugh at Kahill’s fumbling attempts to shake the man’s hand.

I think better full. Dag looked up as the sounds of wings grew louder.

I think better full too. Simon’s eyes drifted to the sky. But I think it’ll have until morning. We’re going to have a lot to do.

The flyers, many of whom had been carried by others, were laid around Nathan.

Men. Nathan stood. I can’t do this alone.

Soon, sailors surrounded him, ready to work and waiting for direction.

Nathan, wrapping the broken leg of one of the pound dogs, demonstrated what to do. We can stop the bleeding, splint and bandage broken wings and hope they’ll heal. Nathan frowned. I don’t think I brought enough bandages.

No problem. Finn took off the outer shirt of the many layers he wore, tearing it into strips. We can use these.

Kahill didn’t see his sister until she tugged on his arm. Sister, explain your smile.

Do you not see? Cara waved her hand at the men. They listen to their young. This is good. They listened to you and now they are working together. We need this trust. We are becoming an army. Cara saw the new lines carved into her brother’s narrow face. Are you hungry brother?

There is much on my mind. Kahill shook his head.

Cara put her foot down. That is not right answer. You need food. Karin got us special drinks. She said they are power drinks and will keep us strong. She and Jenny are bringing drinks to the sailors. I’ll get one for you.

Peter grinned. I think you just got told what to do by your little sister.

It is not the first time.

Cara returned, drink in hand, before Kahill made it to where Nathan sat. Doctor, how is patient?

"Dr. Benjamin is fine, but this doctor is confused. Nathan pulled at the unruly curls that always made their way into his eyes. I’d really like you to tell me what’s going on.

Kahill spoke between sips. Finished talking, he took a last sip No questions?

Two days ago, I might have thought you were all nuts. He looked at Peter. I understand the likeness now. I think I should inspect the work.

Nathan, carefully walking between where the sailors and children worked, checked the splints made to heal broken wings. They won’t be able to fly. I’m not sure they’ll ever fly again. They’ll live though. He looked at one especially quiet animal, staring into its tear-drop eyes. At least they’re not in pain.

Finn, gently stroking the bird lying in his lap, smiled. Wormfinder told me, well, he told all of us, he’ll make sure they get back to their nests. He said they’ll always be taken care of. It’s such— He stopped as if at a loss for word, so human.

You should have heard the eagles sing. You’d have to have been deaf not to realize they were mourning. Nathan gently ran his finger across the coarse fur of a small bat. I’ll never take them, any of them, for granted.

Walking to stand beside the fire, Nathan looked at the men, many still holding onto their patients. You’ve done a good job. The bandages, the splints look as good as anything I could have done.

The sun was beginning to sink when the eagles came. Wounded birds and bats were carried on their majestic wings. Those able to, flew beside them. The avian convoy was soon lost to sight, and a cadre of tired men prepared their beds.

Spirit walked, nose sniffing the air. His thick muscles rolled beneath his fur. Only three of the five dogs rescued from the kennel had returned. He looked over to the troops he had directed, surprise registering on his canine face.

Sleeping with the dogs were the four cats that made it back. The three battle-weary dogs were snoring. The cats, purring, curled up beside them. Spirit lay down next to Becky. For a while, he listened to her breathing. He rose. Walking past her, he went to stand by the entrance.

Ears upright, Spirit listened to the sounds of marching feet. The cool night breeze carried the scent of soldiers, the smell of kin who weren’t kin. He shivered, glad to know the breeze didn’t bring his scent to them. Clumsily, the soldiers searched the woods, making too much noise. When they left, and the air was once again clean, Spirit lay down, eyes closing.

Fred, finished with the list, wondered what he would be asked to do next when the door to his room swung open.

Uncle Wilhelm stood behind General Hinman whose hands were clenched into white-knuckled fists. Hinman’s usual scowl seemed crueler. Crossing the room, he stopped only inches from Fred. You have the list?

Yes? Fred’s eyes strayed to the floor.

Yesterday, there was an attack on the mines! Hinman’s left eyebrow rose high on his forehead. It was a well-planned attack. It was successful. We lost the miners and the fishermen. We need the mine operational.

General Hinman turned away, looking out the still-open door. Though he spoke to himself, both Fred and Wilhelm heard his words. I cannot fail.

Fred looked at his uncle and, seeing him nod, knew Wilhelm felt it too. It wasn’t just anger. Below the anger was fear. The sweat soaking the general’s shirt reeked of it. Fred knew that smell. He had smelled it on his Poppa many times.

Check your list, make sure it is complete. Hinman slowly approached the door.

Do you want me to bring it to your office? Fred asked.

Bring it when you’re done helping your uncle reopen the store. It must be made ready. My men grow hungry.

Morning dawned quickly. Cara headed to the stone circle, listening to the men as they woke.

When enough bleary eyes turned her way, she spoke. It will be busy day; we need food. We will prepare breakfast. I think… Cara glanced over her shoulder to where Karin and Mickey were arguing about what to prepare. It’s good to let the little ones make breakfast—keeps them busy.

Going over to Mickey and Karin, Cara placed herself between them.

Mickey, hands on his hips, spoke in a voice growing louder with each word. "I don’t think it’s a good idea to build a fire."

"Well, I think we should make pancakes, Karin shouted back. It’s going to be a hard day. We’ll need the carbs."

There’s too many of us, Cara interjected, and victory crossed Mickey’s face.

Uh, uh. I don’t think so. Mom said you make two pancakes a person. That’s really not that many. Karin, turning, spoke over her shoulder, I’m going to take a count. I’ll be right back.

Karin ran off before Cara could object.

At least it’ll keep her busy. Becky walked to where Mickey stood. Why don’t you get the tables ready.

Don’t want to. Mickey pouted.

If you help me, you won’t have to do any of the cleanup. Becky grinned. How about it?

Oh, all right. His hands fell to his sides as Becky went over to where the leftover plywood sheets lay. Beside them was a small stack of unused bricks.

We can take those. They’re heavy, but the two of us can do it, Becky said.

Mickey smiled. Sure, but I’ll end up doing all the heavy lifting.

I can help too. Cara winked. The two of us girls should be as strong as one little boy.

Ain’t little. Mickey, kicking at the dirt, walked over to the bricks.

We’ll have to find a way to tell Karin we can’t start a fire. Becky watched Karin carefully counting the men. She jumped, feeling a hand touch her shoulder.

Sorry. The young man, dark-brown eyes laughing, hung his head trying to hide his grin. I didn’t mean to scare you.

I don’t think you’re sorry. Over her shoulder, Becky could see Cara laughing. She slapped away the hand held out in apology. You’re Chuck, right?

Yes, my given name is Chugiak. His grin had to be returned. Don’t call me that. No one says it right anyway.

He went over to Cara, leaning forward. In my culture, we greet each other by rubbing noses. I’d like to welcome you to Earth, but if…

Cara leaned forward, pressing her nose on his. Chuck stepped back, a big smile showing bright white teeth. It is called a Kunik, and you did it just right.

My turn. Becky ran over.

We’ve already met. Chuck stepped back.

I don’t care. My nose is cold. Blushing, she looked away. I don’t think you came over to teach us that.

No. His grin widened, his thick lips growing thinner. I came over because you were talking about breakfast, and I’m hungry. Maybe I can help.

Well, you might as well take an end, Becky said. Help us make the table.

Karin returned, grinning. There are thirty fishermen and twenty-one of us if you include Dr. Benjamin and Nathan. That makes fifty-one total. Thank goodness we’re not making pancakes for the dogs and cats.

We’re not making pancakes. Remember, no fire, Cara spoke with Becky, nodding in agreement.

I can teach you how to build a fire that makes little smoke, Chuck said.

You can? Becky frowned.

Karin, who had been pouting by the shore, ran over. Show me too. I like to cook.

My people learned a long time ago. A good place to hunt must be protected. We’ll need a lot of rocks. The first rock must be large and flat. Chuck looked around the lake, pointing to its smooth surface. I think we’ll find what we need in its waters. When we’re done gathering, I’ll show you how to build it.

The sun peeking at them behind the clouds made Chuck smile. It’s going to be hazy. Even the little smoke we’ll make will disappear in the mist.

A tall, muscular man walked up behind them. The dark, hard flesh of his arms spoke of a life led fighting the seas.

Setting up for breakfast. He grinned as Becky jumped. Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.

It seems… Becky placed a hand on each hip, this is a morning for being surprised.

Crooked teeth peeked out from behind thin lips. I’m Simen, ship’s cook, so I know what it’s like to cook for a crew, though never one this big, with so many hungry kids.

When he smiled, the muscles of his mouth bent awkwardly, a white scar crossed his cheek, snaking its way to his lip. At least on the ship we had a well-equipped mess. That’s what they call the ship’s kitchen and after cooking three full meals a day for hungry sailors, the names appropriate. I heard you guys talking about pancakes. I was coming over to say we could make do with granola bars but— he looked at Chuck—I’d like to learn how to make a smokeless fire too. Since most of the guys aren’t up yet, we have enough time to get a fire going, but pancakes will take too long.

Simen’s eyes smiled, their light green sparkling, as he saw Karin once again pouting. Do we have ham?

Of course we do, Karin answered. I’ll get it.

Do you need help? Simen walked her way, only to see her frown.

"I can do it." Karin marched away.

Simen bit back a grin, speaking to her back. After we build the stove, I’ll show you what to do.

Chuck watched his students collecting rocks. We need a large flat rock for first.

Got it. Simen placed the rock close to the water’s edge. Do you want me to dig a hole?

Yes, but shallow, Chuck answered. Fire smokes when everything doesn’t burn. We need the right stove and the best fuel. Do you have any paper?

My backpack has my school notebook in it. Becky ran to retrieve the bag.

You don’t mind pulling out the paper? Chuck’s grin told her he already knew what her answer would be.

Now we all must gather the driest twigs and wood. Here we will use, much as my family does, the cotton grass stalks, but only the top the wind has dried. Chuck put the paper over the rocks now piled in a circle around the shallow pit.

Not much wood here. Simen returned with a few branches.

Finished stacking the next layer of rock, Chuck carefully laid the grass stalks upon it.

Place the wood here. We start the fire below the wood to bring in air. Chuck dug out a channel, leaving an entrance to the lower chamber. Lighting the paper, he placed it inside. He blew into the chamber, then stood back, waiting.

Becky didn’t realize she was holding her breath until she heard Cara, standing at her side, suck at the air.

Soon, there was a small fire. One small puff of smoke quickly blew into the haze, leaving behind a soft glow. Its heat warmed those standing around it.

Simen reached out, shaking Chuck’s hand. That is the best stove I’ve ever seen. Hardly any smoke. If our friends can see it, I’m a sea monster.

My turn to be the teacher. Simen looked at the ropes descending into the lake. Karin, you got the ham?"

Of course. She stood, hands resting on her hips. It’s canned.

Simen reached out, taking the can. I’ll open it, you carve it into thin slices.

Karin’s anger faded with each slice.

I cut fifty-one slices. One for each of us. Karin laid the slices beside the stove.

Smart girl. Glad you took count. I wasn’t sure how much to cut. Any left? Simen asked.

Little pieces for the dogs and cats, Karin answered.

Simen grinned. You’re right again. We can’t forget them, but they won’t care how you cut it.

Simen looked at Beccara with narrowed eyes.

Feeling his stare, she turned to face him. You are not sure?

I’m sorry to stare. It’s just I thought I would see a difference.

Difference in lives lived only. Cara looked down at the clothes hanging loosely over her thin arms and began to walk away.

Please, don’t go. Simen reached out, gently pulling her towards him. We’ll feed you better.

Simen pointed to the reeds growing at the water’s edge. Gather as many of them as you can. We’ll weave them into baskets to toast the bread. Because they’re water plants, they don’t burn easily. We just have to keep an eye on them.

It is like what do to girls hair. I did this for the little ones back home. Cara sat beside Simen, helping him.

Leaning over the large pile of baskets at Simen’s feet, Becky whispered, Thanks for helping with Karin.

Don’t need to be thanked. Had a daughter once. Know what to do. He walked over to where Karin was waiting. All this work is making me hungry.

I was hungry before cutting the ham. Karin’s cheeks dimpled.

You didn’t sneak any of the ham, did you? Simen did his best to sound like his mother.

Of course not. Karin giggled.

He rubbed his stomach. The girls, smiling, saw his eyes sparkling in the early morning sun. In his eyes, the light began to dance.

What is next, sir? Cara held out the baskets.

Sir! His eyebrows rose high in his forehead. No one ever calls me that.

Cara drew back, putting some distance between them, the color draining from her face. His eyes drew closer together, the dancing stopping as a more serious look took over his face. I am so sorry. I was only joking. Is it so serious on your world?

No time for laughing or joking. We all work. Cara stopped speaking, listening to many yawns, a few whines from the dogs, and lots of get off me from the youngsters. What should we do next? They are waking.

Hungry sailors are just as bad, maybe worse, than hungry kids. Karin—Simen called— you need to put a slice of ham on each basket.

Still no smoke. Cara stared down at the stove.

Chuck did a good job. It’s a good thing too. Simen looked up at the blue sky above them, the mist long gone. Patting the rocks beside him, he continued his instructions. See these rocks, you need to collect a dozen of the small ones.

Busy, it was a few minutes before they returned to where Simen knelt beside the glowing embers.

Wash them. Then put them on the fire, one at a time. Simen scowled. We don’t want it to go out. Now we wait.

They were all staring at the fire, still glowing beneath the rocks.

Good, it didn’t go out. When you put the baskets on top of the rocks, be careful. They’re already getting hot. Simen, watching the glowing embers, spoke to his assistants. They’ll do the slow cooking and keep the reeds out of the fire. Cara, you get the bread, spread them out in a single layer directly on the rocks. The bread will toast fast. We’ll turn them in a minute.

The sailors, waking to the smell of breakfast, formed a line. Spirit was first.

Yum. Devon sat up, ignoring the stab of pain in his back. I’m hungry. Where is that delicious smell coming from?

Nathan, having slept between his patients, rose slowly. How’s the back?

My back’s fine. My stomach hurts. Devon made an exaggerated show of grabbing his stomach.

Your stomach? Nathan frowned.

I’m hungry. Devon grinned.

If you weren’t my patient, I’d hit you. Nathan did his best to look dangerous.

That’s not why you won’t hit me, Devon said. You won’t hit me because I’m twice your size.

Dr. Benjamin moaned, turning on his side.

Don’t try to get up. Nathan immediately knelt beside him. How are you feeling today?

Weak, tired, but mostly hungry. Dr. Benjamin frowned at the weak sound of his voice.

You should be. Nathan ignored his growling stomach. You lost a lot of blood, and your body is working hard to patch itself up. I’ll get you some food.

Can I have a cup of coffee? Dr. Benjamin’s eyes twinkled.

If I was Dr. Casavale, I’d say no. Then I’d sneak into my office and have a cup. Nathan could barely hold back his grin. Okay, he’d have more than one, drinks three or four cups a day. The Doc says that if you only have one cup, no more than two, it’s not bad for you. Coffee depletes the body of…

His face turned crimson. Sorry. I’m starting to sound like the Doc. How do you like your coffee?

Black, no sugar, Dr. Benjamin replied.

The buffet line starts here. Devon grinned as Nathan came to stand behind him.

Karin placed a single slice of ham on each plate, while Cara passed out the toast. Simen poured coffee. Behind them, Chuck and Becky made sure the fire didn’t go out.

Nathan looked longingly at the coffee, hands holding two plates.

They’re not both for you, are they? Becky asked.

Course not. One’s for your dad. Nathan did his best to look hurt.

I’ll trade a plate for a cup of coffee. Becky glanced at Karin. It was obvious she was enjoying her job, slapping away any hand reaching for a second slice of ham. I’ll take care of Dad. They won’t need me for a while.

Thanks. He hugged the cup, warming his hands.

Becky sat beside her father, who pulled her close, gently kissing her forehead.

Nathan, talking about the work he’d been doing for Dr. Casavale, looked down at the food on his plate. I’m talking too much.

You’re not. Becky moved a little closer to where he sat. I think it’s fascinating. Tell us more.

You better be careful. Peter chuckled. She’s always been interested in medicine. If you’re not careful, you won’t get to finish your breakfast. You should have seen our garage. For a while, she had all sorts of animals there. Becky was nursing them back to health. She fed the baby birds that fell out of their nests during a windstorm. Used gloves.

Had to, Becky interrupted. Birds won’t accept other birds if they smell like people.

She fed them worms. Peter scowled. Gross, ha?

No, Nathan spoke seriously. Kind.

That’s the reason I thought Becky would make a good doctor. Dr. Benjamin looked at his son. I thought you might follow in my footsteps, or maybe your uncle’s.

How long have you been working with the Doc? Becky looked away from her brother.

I’ve worked with him for the last two summers. Nathan’s voice died.

You’re worried about him. Becky frowned.

I am. Nathan looked down, the straight lines of his nose narrowed, nostrils drawing