“Of course. As the comet passes, the radioactive material will be drawn into orbit around the Earth. It will, over a period of a few months, spread out and eventually encircle the planet. Every inch of the Earth's surface will be affected. The amount of radiation we're talking about will have an almost immediate effect. We estimate the first deaths will occur within twenty-four to forty-eight hours. After that, the death toll will climb at a devastating rate. Within a few months, almost everyone will be dead.”

“People respond differently to exposure to radiation, so some will survive, but the number will be very few, and those who do survive will be extremely susceptible to some cancers, especially leukemia. Sterility and birth defects will also affect many of those who survive but remain exposed.

“Most animal life will be wiped out. Creatures deep in the oceans will probably be okay, but the sea life at shallower depths will die off. Some species of insects will be wiped out, but others will flourish, plants will also be impacted. Some will do fine in a more radioactive environment, while others won't.”

For a long period of minutes, nobody said a word, all three men just stared at Williams as they tried to absorb what they'd heard.

Nathanial Atkins was the first to speak. “Is there any way this data could be wrong?”

“No, sir, it's confirmed. A University professor brought it to our attention about three months ago, and we've been checking and rechecking the data ever since,” Williams responded quietly.

“When will this happen?” Atkins continued.

“Just under three years.”

“What options do we have?” Admiral Atkins demanded.

“At this time, we're not aware of any viable options. We're certainly looking for any possible solutions, anything which might change the situation. But as yet, we have nothing to offer,” Williams answered.

“Are you saying we'll be watching this thing screaming through space for the next three years and there is nothing we can do, except wait for it to get here and kill six billion people?” General Draper snapped.

Williams inhaled sharply. “Gentlemen, that's exactly what I'm saying.”

The National Security advisor rose to leave. “Mr. Williams don't go anywhere until you hear from me and obviously, don't discuss this with anyone. I want the name of that university professor.” He glanced over at the representatives of the Joint Chief. “I'm going straight to the White House. Keep a lid on this until I've spoken to the President.”

Chapter Eight

DAY 940

Colonel Finch walked across the flight line to the waiting Army staff car. By the time he got there, he was cold and wet and utterly disgusted with himself. Here he was, being summoned to the Pentagon to provide an update on the work he and his team were doing, and he was going to walk in there resembling a drowned rat.