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Post by texican on Mar 26, 2019 13:23:32 GMT -6
Cresting the hill that overlooked the main retreat, Darren saw Rattler and Magnum’s vehicles driving through the main gate.
Looks like the group is back together.... .gov must have impacted their trip....
Thanks A for the chapter....
Texican....
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Post by accountant on Mar 27, 2019 11:35:00 GMT -6
Chapter 22
The Return
Darren hurried down the hill as the trucks parked by the main building. Laura, with Zeus and Apollo, was already at the trucks and Boomer was on his way down from his house.
“Hey guys.”, he said as he reached the trucks, “What happened? Why are you back?”
“What? No, hello, how was your trip?”, said Rattler, chuckling, as he got out of the truck.
“Don’t be a smartass.”, said Laura, “Are the kids okay?”
“Yeah, everybody’s fine, just tired. Clarice, why don’t you and Missy take the kids up to the house, get some food into them and let them rest for a bit. We can unload later. Guys, we need to talk about what we saw.”, said Rattler.
“Okay, let’s go inside. Eugene, Tara, your folks went into town, but they’ll be back soon. Clarice, can you look after them too, please?”, said Laura.
“No problem.”, said Clarice, ‘Come on everyone. Let’s get something to eat.”
The group parted with Clarice leading the others towards the house, the dogs licking each of them and yapping as they went.
Laura, Darren, Rattler, Boomer, and Magnum entered the main building and settled around one of the conference rooms.
“Man, it’s good to be home.”, said Magnum.
“We can’t really say that it’s good to have you back.”, said Laura, “Obviously something happened. Walk us through it.”
Taking a deep breath, Magnum began speaking, “Well, we headed north and grabbed the I-40 near Hartford, just like we planned. Stopped for gas a couple of times before we took the 26 out by Asheville. Things got slow after that. It seemed like a lot of folks were headed the same way we were. At the I-85 junction near Spartansburg, the reason became evident. I-85 was shut down both North and South. It took forever but eventually we were through. Same thing happened at Columbia with the I-20 and the I-77. It was starting to get dark by this time but we muddled through. We got off a few times to get gas only to find that the stations were empty or there were long lines. When we got to the I-95, it was shut down and hiway patrol wouldn’t let anybody on. Lucky route 15 ran parallel to the 95 so we took that, but everybody was on it so it was slow too. Then it was the 17 to the 21 to 170 before we got back on the 462 but there were roadblocks and we couldn’t get on route 278. That’s the causeway leading to Hilton Head. We were only 10 miles away. We decide to take a break at a truckstop at the junction. There we found out that the Coast Guard wasn’t allowing any vessels on the ocean and they had backup from the navy. Even if we could find a captain to take us out on the water, we wouldn’t have gotten far before we were stopped and too many questions asked. We thought about it and decided to forget about St. Simon. We wouldn’t be able to get on the 95 anyways. Rather than stay the night at a hotel, we thought it would be best if we turned around and came back before they shut down I-26. Good thing we did too. As we were coming back, we saw the DOT closing off entrances to the 26.”
“That threw a wrench in the works, didn’t it?”, said Boomer, “How are Clarice and Missy handling it?”
“They’re concerned.”, said Rattler, “But we told them that once things calm down, maybe we can try again. That seemed to help.”
“Was there any armed forces movement you could see?”, asked Laura.
“Yeah, we did see some national guard convoys going up the interstates. Couldn’t tell where they were going though.”, said Rattler.
“Okay. I think that’s enough for now. I’m not glad to see you back, but I’m glad to see you safe.”, said Laura, “Why don’t you get some rest and we can re-group later.”
Rattler and Magnum slowly got up and walked out of the conference room.
“What do you think?”, asked Darren.
“I think that fact the interstates system is being shut down is a sign that the government is trying to keep people where they are. It’ll be easier for FEMA to manage the people if they can’t move around.”, said Laura.
“It also means that the trucking system is shut down too. Supplies and food won’t be getting to where they’re needed. The major cities are about to become powderkegs once the food runs out.”, said Boomer, “It’s a good thing for us that they came back. We couldn’t have held this place by ourselves once the starving get here.”
“Speaking of starving, let’s see if Clarice has some extras for us. The Wilsons should be back soon and I want to get started on installing the wood stoves this afternoon, if they find any.”, said Laura, standing.
The trio walked to Rattler’s home where Clarice had put together sandwiches and soup for everyone. Laura, Darren, and Boomer graciously accepted their plates. Laura and Darren sat down in the living room to eat, while Boomer took his food out to the porch. The younger kids, having finished their lunches were already up in the bedrooms, fast asleep.
Just as Laura and Darren were finishing their meal, the front door opened and Martha came in saying, “My babies. Where are my babies?”
Tara rushed to her mom and hugged her, while Eugene waited for his turn.
As they were hugging each other, Henry entered and his received his share of hugs.
Over lunch, Martha and Henry heard what had happened on the trip to the shore.
After listening to the explanation, Henry said, “Okay, now that everyone’s back, we could use some help. The wood stoves aren’t going to install themselves. I also picked up a few other things while we were in town. They’re in the truck out front.”
Laura, Darren, Rattler, and Magnum followed Henry out of the house and to the truck which Boomer had already opened and was looking through.
“I got eight wood stoves and the chimneys and accessories to go with them. I also picked up some cast iron pots and pans sets. I also saw a manual flour grinder and decide to buy that too. I figure, worst comes to worst, we can always grind the corn into flour for cornbread. The co-op has some bags of heirloom turkey red wheat available so I grabbed a couple of bags and a few bags of urea to go with it. We can plant it in the fall after the corn is harvested and it’ll be ready by late spring. I saw Matt Jennings outside his place while we were driving by. I made a deal with him to send up 10 cords of seasoned wood and 10 cords of unseasoned. He’ll be dropping that off in a couple of hours. I hope that’s okay.”
“That’s more than okay, Henry. I never would have thought about the wheat and the urea.”, said Laura.
“That’s why you send a farmer to get things for the farm.”, said Henry, “After we unload all this stuff, I can take the flatbed back to my old place to pick up the old plow and other things.”
“Actually, I think it would be better to get your help on installing the stoves in the homes. The plow and other things aren’t going anywhere just yet. We can pick them up tomorrow.”, said Laura.
The rest of the afternoon was spent installing the stoves in the homes and moving the piles of dumped seasoned and unseasoned wood behind each house and close to the barn.
Darren and Boomer were taking a break from moving wood to behind Boomer’s house when they heard the dogs barking an alarm at the main gate.
Grabbing their AR15s, the two men quickly made their way down behind the main building, which gave them a good view of the main road. Darren saw Rattler exit his house from the rear and take up a cover position at the side of his house with his barrel pointed towards the main gate.
“Where’s Cassie?”, asked Darren.
“Don’t worry about Spider, Flower. She’s out there somewhere, keeping an overwatch on things.”, said Boomer as he watched the road through his rifle sights.
As they watched and waited, five men, dressed in woodland BDU’s, came into view walking down the road towards Safehaven. They all had their hands above their heads with a rifle in one hand and a clip in the other.
When they were 50 feet from the gate, one of the men said, “Hello the farm! We need to speak with Cindy James!”
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Post by jpr9954 on Mar 27, 2019 18:47:50 GMT -6
Living in western North Carolina, I want to compliment you on getting the roads right. Traffic always backs up on Interstate 26. Always!
I'm loving this story as it progresses.
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Post by texican on Mar 27, 2019 20:04:38 GMT -6
As they watched and waited, five men, dressed in woodland BDU’s, came into view walking down the road towards Safehaven. They all had their hands above their heads with a rifle in one hand and a clip in the other.
When they were 50 feet from the gate, one of the men said, “Hello the farm! We need to speak with Cindy James!”Heeemmmm.... Good or bad guys? Now A, only another chapter will tell... Texican....
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Post by accountant on Mar 29, 2019 12:05:58 GMT -6
Chapter 23
Interrogation
Darren was shocked that they knew Laura’s real name.
“There’s nobody here by that name.”, yelled Boomer, “Turn around and be on your way.”
“We know.”, said the man, “I was just being open and honest with you. She’s going by the name of Cassie Smith now. We know she’s here. We mean you no harm. We need to speak to her, urgently.”
“What’s this all about.”, yelled Boomer.
“It’s about the EMPs”, said the man.
Without coming out of concealment, Boomer scanned the hills quickly. As he was searching, he saw three flashes of light.
Turning back to the main gate, Boomer yelled, “Drop your weapons and your packs where you are and strip down to your underwear!”
The men slowly did as Boomer had commanded.
“Now put your hands back up and take twenty paces backwards away from the gate.”, ordered Boomer.
Again the men complied.
“Now turn around and lay down on the road with your hand behind your heads and fingers interlocked.”, said Boomer.
When they had done this, Boomer said to Darren, “Flower, I’m going into the building to get some zip-ties. They so much as turn their heads to cough, you take them out, understood?”
Darren nodded.
Boomer went into the building and soon returned with sets of zip-ties.
“Okay, let’s go. Rattler and Magnum’ll be covering us. Try to stay out of their line of fire.”, he said, heading towards the gate.
As Boomer and Darren made their way to the gate, Rattler and Magnum took up their previous positions.
“We’re coming out to get you. Just so you know, you’re being covered as we speak and the dogs will rip you to shreds if you try anything.”, said Boomer to the men.
Boomer opened the gate and the dogs rushed through. Darren copied Boomer as he made his way towards the mound of clothing, packs, and weapons. Holding his rifle in front of him, Boomer pushed all the material off the roadway with his foot.
When they got to the men and the growling dogs, Boomer said, “For your safety and ours, you’ll be zip-tied and led inside the gate one by one. I don’t have to remind you, the dogs are still here and you’re still being covered.”
Before heading to the first man, Boomer whispered to Darren, “Keep an eye on them. Anyone moves, you shoot, okay?”
Darren nodded.
“This is serious, Flower. They know who Spider is, so they know who we are and what we did. They’re hunters and will kill us if they get the chance, so don’t give them the chance. I need you to say the words. Do you understand?”, whispered Boomer.
“I understand and I will.”, said Darren.
Reaching the first man, Boomer slung his rifle over his back and knelt over him, putting his knee into the small of the man’s back, before zip-tying the man’s hands behind his back. He copied the procedure with all the other men.
Going back to the first man, Boomer said, “We’re going to stand up and walk backwards towards the gate.”
Boomer stood the man up and walked him through the gate and behind the building where he laid the man down on the ground while Magnum covered him.
Slowly and methodically, the same routine was perform for the remainder of the men in their underwear.
Finally, the last man was brought in and the gates were locked.
As the men lay on the ground, Boomer again scanned the hills and saw flashes of light, two together and one later.
He pointed to Rattler and then towards the hills.
Without a word, Rattler quickly made his way towards the woods and was soon gone from view.
Boomer waited for a few more minutes and said to the first man, “Okay, since you’re the one talking for the group, why don’t you and I go inside and have a little chat.”
He helped the man to his feet and walked him into the main building where he again laid the man down on the floor before retrieving a chair from one of the conference rooms.
Sitting the man down, Boomer said, “Now, before we begin, I hope I don’t have to restrain you further, but if there’s a need for it, there’s no need for you. Do I make myself clear?”
“Crystal clear, Mr. Reynolds, but I was really hoping to talk to Mrs. Smith.”, said the man.
“You’ll talk to me. Who are you?”, asked Boomer.
“My name is Bill Jessup. I and my team work for CSIS.”, replied the man.
“CSIS? The Canadian spy agency? You’re Canadian then?”, asked Boomer.
“Yes.”, said the man.
“How many in your team.”, asked Boomer.
“The five of us.”, said Bill.
“How can we be sure there aren’t more?”, asked Boomer.
“We have hard copy documentation in our packs. Once you go through them, you’ll see that it’s only us.”, said Bill.
“Don’t worry, we will. Okay, so what do you know about Mrs. Smith.”, asked Boomer.
“Everything, names, dates, locations, activities, strengths, weaknesses. We received a full dossier on her, your entire team, this place, and even the civilians.”, said Bill.
“Where did you get that information?”, asked Boomer.
“Have you heard of Five Eyes?”, asked Bill.
“Yes, it’s the intelligence alliance consisting of intelligence agencies from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.”, said Boomer.
“And you know that each country is not allowed to surveil their own citizens so a way around it was to ask one of the other countries in Five Eyes to surveil their citizens for them. Canada was doing some of the work for the US. CSIS is developing an artificial intelligence program called Crossbow that was able to take in all information that was available online, and using algorithms, find anomalies, and cross-reference that against classified information in secure datasets. It was decided that testing would be performed before Crossbow was brought online using 100 dead files from the CIA. A while ago, the system found an anomaly. Laura Springfield was gone missing after her townhouse exploded and Darren Sommers had committed suicide after he had lost his job on the very same day. They, being neighbours, raised flags for the program. Crossbow then began image and text searches for each of them and saw that they both had Tennessee drivers licenses issued earlier in the month under the names Cassie and Chad Smith with the same pictures as their Virginia licenses and with this address. This second alert activated Crossbow’s classified dataset search of the dead CIA files. This search found the files for Cindy James, you Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Jackson, and Mr. Conway. The program cross-reference that information against all other available information, including drivers licenses of the people who live here and matched all of you.”, said Bill.
“What else?”, asked Boomer, slightly agitated.
“Once, it was finished its analysis, Crossbow spit out a report which the analyst pushed up the chain. It was sent to the CIA and they authorized CSIS to initiate takedown. That’s when my team was sent in.”, said Bill.
“Who at the CIA authorized it.”, asked Boomer.
“I don’t know. We weren’t given that information.”, said Bill.
“Tell me!”, said Boomer, loudly.
“I don’t know!”, said Bill.
“Tell me!”, yelled Boomer, punching Bill in the face.
Bill spit out blood and said, “I swear, I don’t know.”
“Tell me or I’ll start cutting off appendages. If you’ve read my file, you know I’m not lying.”, said Boomer calmly.
“Yes, I’ve read your file and that’s why I know it’s useless to lie to you. I honestly don’t’ know.”, said Bill.
“I guess it’s time to get bloody then.”, said Boomer, taking out his knife.
“Please, Mr. Reynolds, try to understand. I’ve already told you a lot and have been completely honest with you. You don’t have to do this!”, said Bill.
Boomer slowly began walking towards Bill, then stopped.
“You’re right. I don’t have to do anything to you to get the information I need.”, said Boomer, before hurriedly walking out of the building.
He soon returned dragging one of the other zip-tied men behind him. Boomer threw the man on the ground, looked at Bill, and said, “Last chance to tell me the truth before I start freeing little piggies.”
“I’m not lying to you, I swear.”, said Bill.
“This is on you, Billy boy.”, said Boomer, putting his knee on the downed man’s back and pulling one of his hands up in an awkward angle.
Boomer put the blade of his knife on the man’s hand where the little finger connected to the hand and pressed it into the flesh.
The man began to scream as blood began to flow from his finger.
“NO! Please, no!! We came here to help! Please don’t!”, screamed Bill.
“That’s enough.”, said Laura from the top of the stairs, “Take him outside and get him cleaned up.”
Laura walked down to the main floor of the building and brought a chair from one of the conference rooms as Boomer took the bleeding man outside.
“You and your friends took a pretty big risk coming here like you did.”, said Laura, taking a seat in front of Bill, “You said you wanted to talk to me, so what should we talk about?”
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Post by papaof2 on Mar 29, 2019 17:37:49 GMT -6
It seems reasonable that they might ask for KYAA - keeping your ... alive.
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Post by sniper69 on Mar 29, 2019 17:59:42 GMT -6
Thank you for a most excellent chapter. I can barely wait for the next chapter.
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Post by texican on Mar 30, 2019 1:18:55 GMT -6
A,
It is falling apart....
Now different countries spy on other countries citizens, kind of like today....
Now were those with the sun reflecting scopes?.?.?.?
Only another chapter will tell....
Thanks for the chapter....
Texican....
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Post by accountant on Apr 2, 2019 8:55:20 GMT -6
Chapter 24
Questions
“Look, Mrs. Smith”, said Bill, regaining his composure, “I understand your need for security and alertness. I wouldn’t trust me either right now if I were you, but I want you to know that we don’t mean you any harm. We came here of our own volition with our hands raised and I have and will tell you anything you need to know.”
“For starters, you can call me Cassie.”, said Laura, “You know my names and you mentioned dossiers that were received from the CIA. What were your orders exactly?”
“Our orders were to surveil the team and take it down either individually or as a group, alive if possible, dead if not. If alive, we were to transport the team or any survivors to CIA headquarters in Langley.”, said Bill.
“You can’t just walk into CIA headquarters with captives.”, said Laura.
“No, one of us was to go into the building while the rest stayed in the vehicles and ask for Deputy Director Jason Chandler. He would advise us on next steps.”, said Bill.
“So Chandler the handler is a DD now, interesting.”, opined Laura, “Why CSIS and not the FBI?”
“Someone at the company wanted to keep the takedown below the radar and didn’t want the bureau involved.”, replied Bill.
“Why are you disobeying your orders now?”, asked Laura.
“We studied your files in-depth. We know what you and your team have done. We also know what you have been accused of doing. It would have been easy for each of you to go your own way and lose your old persona across this country but you didn’t. You decided to build this place and stay together. That shows that you all have loyalty to each other. You decided to help the farmer’s family when they lost the farm. That showed morals and ethics. From what we have observed, no one is being mistreated here and no one is being bullied. In fact, you treat each other as family. That shows that you respect each other. We could have taken you when you and Mr. Smith went into town for pizza that day, but we didn’t. We could have taken Mr. Jackson and Mr. Conway when they left, but we didn’t. We could have taken Mr. Reynolds when he spent the night in your LP/OP but we didn’t. My team and I actually like and respect you and what you’ve built here, Cassie. When we found out about the attack on the grid, we weren’t sure what to do, so we decided to continue to observe. From our handler, we found out about the EMPs coming and the closing of the interstates. We know we’ll never be able to get back home considering what’s happening. As a team, we made the decision to turn ourselves in to you, be honest and open, and ask to be a part of your team here. We’re willing to help, too. You don’t have enough people to hold this place once the balloon goes up. We figured it would be a win-win.”, explained Bill.
“You know a lot about our movements. Why weren’t we able to detect you?”, asked Laura.
“A couple of reasons. First, we always stayed downwind so the dogs couldn’t detect us. Secondly, we have high-powered FLIR devices, which we used to monitor you. Finally, we have new FLIR-defeating gilly suits so you couldn’t see us.”, said Bill.
“Where are those gilly suits and FLIR devices now?”, asked Laura.
“They’re in our van, a mile up the road, hidden.”, came the response.
“How do I know there aren’t more of your team hiding out in the woods in gilly suits watching and waiting to strike?”, asked Laura.
Bill took a sigh and said, “With the interstates closed, roadblocks everywhere, and the EMPs coming, we won’t be able to complete the mission. We’d never get out of here without being caught in a roadblock or killing innocent cops or national guardsmen. We didn’t sign up for that. It’s not worth the price our consciences would have to pay to take you in. The mission’s over. We’re trapped here with you, whether we like it or not. There’s nobody in the woods. Besides, there are women and children here. We’re not here to scar them for life.”
“How do you know we won’t just kill you and turn you into fertilizer?”, asked Laura.
“We talked about that before we came here. We read your profiles and we watched you. We are hoping you won’t. We know you’re good people, just like us. We’ve got no place else to go and you need us. Please Cassie, for the benefit of my people and yours, let us stay.”, said Bill.
Laura looked Bill in his eye, searching for any sign of deceit, but couldn’t find it.
“Are there any other teams out there?”, asked Laura.
“Not that we were told. If there are, their using the same gilly suits as we did.”, said Bill.
“Tell me about your team. Are they all just snatch and grab experts or do they have any other skills?”, asked Laura.
“No, we have other skills. CSIS is small compared to other intelligence agencies so we have to wear multiple hats. Don Landry is our medic. Benji Sampson has a mechanical engineering degree. Phil Watson was in the infantry before so he’s got a strong back and ready to use it. Claude Leduc is our explosives expert but he can also Macgyver anything into anything else. Me, I’m the communications and analytical person on the team. We’re all willing to put in a hard day’s work every day with whatever this place needs done and are ready to defend it when the time comes.”, said Bill.
After think for a long about what Bill had said, Laura spoke, “Bill, here’s what we are going to do. Since you’ve read my profile and have watched me, you know that I’m overly cautious when it comes to my team and this place. In order to validate your story, we’re going to isolate you and each of the members of your team separately. Then we are going to ask each team member their story to see if they correspond to what you’ve said. Any discrepancies and you’re all dead. If they line up, my team together makes a decision. Just be warned, you could all still be killed after the discussion. Do you agree to these terms?”
“I don’t think we really have a choice, do we?”, said Bill.
“No, you really don’t. Now, I’m going to take you to one of the conference rooms and zip-tie your legs to a chair, for everyone’s safety. Then I’ll bring in each of the members of your team and have a chat with them. While you are in the conference room, you will not make a peep or everyone dies. Do you understand?”, asked Laura.
“Yes, I understand.”, said Bill.
After going to the communication center, Laura returned with the zip-ties and led Bill into one of the conference rooms where, as promised, she zip-tied him to a chair.
As Laura was about to close the door behind her, Bill said, “I just have one question, if you don’t mind. Why Mr. Sommers? He doesn’t fit the profile.”
Laura smiled and shut the door.
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Post by 9idrr on Apr 2, 2019 20:17:52 GMT -6
Boy, don't it just drive them analytical folks nuts when somebody don't fit the profile?
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Post by arkansascob on Apr 3, 2019 8:01:29 GMT -6
Guess we have to wait a bit longer to know about the 3 flashes of light in the woods.
Excellent story so far A.
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Post by texican on Apr 3, 2019 23:34:07 GMT -6
As Laura was about to close the door behind her, Bill said, “I just have one question, if you don’t mind. Why Mr. Sommers? He doesn’t fit the profile.”
Well Laura needs a love interest if they ever get too....
Thanks A for the chapter....
Texican....
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Post by accountant on Apr 5, 2019 8:47:56 GMT -6
Chapter 25
A Decision Made
“Well, now that you’ve heard their story, what do you say?”, asked Laura to the assembled group of Darren, Boomer, Clarice, Henry, and Magnum.
“I don’t like it.”, said Boomer, “I don’t trust them. How do we know that they aren’t going to turn on us if we let them join.”
“What do you want us to do? We can’t just let them go and forget that this never happened. They came to us for help. And we can’t just kill them in cold-blood.”, said Clarice, “I speak for Rick when I say that we should let them stay.”
“Are you sure they aren’t lying to us?”, asked Magnum.
“When I was talking to each of them, I checked their body language. There were no visible signs of hiding something, no facial ticks, no looking away, no extended looking into my eyes, no involuntary movements in their posture. They were all telling the truth or what they believe to be the truth.”, said Laura.
“If they were telling the truth, we could sure use the manpower here when things go bad.”, said Magnum.
“How do we know they aren’t going to take us out and take over this place if we let them join?”, asked Boomer.
“I thought about that, too. It’s an unknown. But I think I might have a possible solution. If we do let them stay, they can help around the farm and with anything else we need. They don’t get issued any weapons, do not help with security, and are not allowed in the communications center. During the day, they can work here. At night, I suggest we make them stay at the Wilson’s old place. It’s further down the road and it can be used as an extended LP/OP at night.”, explained Laura.
“How do we know they won’t come for us in the middle of the night.”, asked Boomer.
“We have the dogs.”, said Magnum, “and if they have no weapons, we should be safe.”
“And on top of that, I suggest that we let one of them at random sleep here on the premises, in one of our homes or in the barn or locked in one of the conference rooms, on a rotational basis. Since they won’t know which one of their team is going to be in which place, that should also deter them from trying to attack at night.”, said Laura.
“I don’t know if I want one of them sleeping under the same roof as my kids just yet.”, said Clarice.
“For now, I agree, Clarice. Your place will be exempt from the rotation, same as Magnum’s because of Missy and Brian.”, said Laura.
“And what about food? Now there’s five extra mouths to feed.”, said Boomer.
“I was thinking about that too. Since they will be staying on the Wilson’s farm, I don’t see a reason we can’t get them to plant the fields using some of our seeds. It’ll increase our food production and keep them busy at the same time. Henry is that doable?”, asked Laura.
“I don’t see why not. The field have been laying fallow for the past year so it wouldn’t take much to get it going again. We’d have to plow it, of course.”, said Henry.
“I suggest we leave the plow there for now then. We can take the horses down to plow the field when the time is right. We should probably send down a lantern and some candles for light. We can send over some layers too, so they’ll have fresh eggs. Henry, what’s the water situation there?”, asked Laura.
“We had an artisan well there hooked up to the house and barn. Now that the power’s off, the electric pump won’t work, but the hand pump’ll do the trick. The septic tank’s pretty much empty, so that’s a good thing.”, explained Henry.
“Is there firewood there?”, asked Laura.
“Yep, we have some.”, said Henry.
“Good. We’ll have to leave one of your old wood stoves there for them and install it. Anything else you can think of?”, asked Laura.
“They’re going to need some place to sleep, beddings, towels, toiletries, and toilet paper.”, said Darren.
“See! The list keeps adding up!”, said Boomer.
“Yeah, it does.”, said Laura, “We’ve got cots, blankets, pillows, and the other things that they’ll need ins storage. In the long run thought, I think it’ll be worth it. Especially with the early warning of anything coming up the road.”
“I still don’t like it, but I’ll go along with it for now. The extra food from the farm helps.”, said Boomer, “I still won’t hesitate to put a bullet in each of their heads if they try anything, though.”
“It sounds like Boomer is in for letting them stay on with certain terms and conditions.”, said Laura, “What does everybody else say?”
“Stay”, said Clarice.
“Stay.”, said Magnum.
“Stay.”, said Darren.
‘Stay.”, said Henry.
“And a stay from me makes it unanimous.”, said Laura, “I guess we should tell them the good news. Let’s cut them loose and bring them in here.”
Laura and Boomer brought Bill and his team out of the conference rooms and into the main room of the building.
“My team and I have reached a decision. You will be allowed to join us on a conditional basis. You will not be allowed to carry firearms and will not be allowed to provide security. You can help out as needed during the day here on the premises, but will be sleeping at the Wilson's old farmhouse at night. We’ll outfit it as best we can to make it livable for you. You will be manning that property as our extended eyes and ears. The old farm will need to be plowed and planted and we’ll need your help with that. One of you, picked at random, will be staying on site here overnight. All your equipment and firearms will be confiscated and used for the security of this place. In exchange, we will be providing you food, water, safety and security here at Safehaven. That is our offer. If you don’t like it, you are free to try your luck elsewhere, but just know that we will be keeping your equipment and firearms, including the van. If you do decide to stay, I want to make it perfectly clear, there are children and civilians here. Their safety is paramount to us and will always come first, no matter what. What say you?”, asked Laura.
“I speak for the whole group when I say that we gladly accept. We understand the difficult decision you’ve had to make and appreciate the kindness. I’m sure it wasn’t an easy one. In the case of the children and civilians, we all have families back home in one sense or another and we’ll do whatever we can to keep your people safe, just as we hope someone would be looking after ours. I would just like to add one amendment to our agreement, if I could.”, said Bill, with all sincerity.
“You’re in no position to ask for anything right now, but go ahead.”, said Laura.
“It’s starting to get a little chilly, eh. Can we have some clothes, please?”, asked Bill.
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Post by accountant on Apr 5, 2019 8:59:05 GMT -6
texican and arkansascob,
The flashes of light in the woods was Laura sending messages and commands to Boomer.
I guess I didn't make that clear. Thanks for pointing it out to me.
A.
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Post by arkansascob on Apr 5, 2019 12:31:48 GMT -6
Guess I should of caught on to that A. My mind was wanting some shoot em up kick ass action so it lead me to believe the 5 men had help hiding in the woods. I'm sure all that action is on it's way though.
You're doing a great job with this story.
Thanks for you're time and efforts. It's much appreciated.
COB
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Post by texican on Apr 5, 2019 13:39:23 GMT -6
“It’s starting to get a little chilly, eh. Can we have some clothes, please?”, asked Bill.
Yep, skives will only keep part of you warm, but not that warm....
Thanks A for the chapter....
Texican....
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Post by accountant on Apr 5, 2019 13:47:32 GMT -6
Guess I should of caught on to that A. My mind was wanting some shoot em up kick ass action so it lead me to believe the 5 men had help hiding in the woods. I'm sure all that action is on it's way though. You're doing a great job with this story. Thanks for you're time and efforts. It's much appreciated. COB COB, if you're looking for shoot em up kick ass action, you should read 223shootersc's stuff. He's the real expert in that department. If you've read my writings, and I know you did, you'd know I'm not good at that kind of action. Hell, most of the time my characters are either worried or crying. LOL But I can tell you this though, I do have a few surprises coming up where firearms may or may not come into play. You'll just have to put up with the boring, everyday life parts for a bit until we get to it. Cheers, A.
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Post by accountant on Apr 9, 2019 10:55:52 GMT -6
Chapter 26
Guests
Boomer let out a chuckle and said, “I thought you Canadians were supposed to be used to the cold?”
“We are, but we don’t spend a lot of time hanging out in our skivvies.”, said Bill.
Laura said, “We’ll get you some clothes out of our stores. Then one of will go with two of us to get your belongings and van and bring them back here. I want to take a look at those gilly suits. Just be warned that if the van is booby-trapped or anything happens to our people…”
“Yeah, I know. We’re all dead. That appears to be the theme around here.”, said Bill, with a chuckle, “And no, there’s no surprises in the van. It’s just your average rental van, white and non-descript. The keys are in Benji’s jacket pocket out where we took our clothes off.”
“Okay, great, after we get some clothes on you folks, Claude, you’ll go out with Boomer and Magnum to get the van and the stuff.”, explained Laura, “Boomer, could you and Chad outfit these men from the storeroom?”
After the Canadian team was outfitted with clothes and footwear, Boomer and Magnum took Claude to retrieve the van and equipment. While they were gone, Laura had the other men start the grill and help to prepare dinner for everyone using fresh vegetables and salad brought from the farm, and pasta and sauce from the storage room.
Dinner was a subdued event with the two parties cautiously observing each other. Clarice and Missy took food for the kids back to Clarice’s house and fed them there. After dinner, Laura, Boomer, and Bill went into the a conference room to review the documents that the Canadian team had brought along. Laura and Boomer questioned Bill further on aspects of the intel and tried to gleam as much information as possible from the reports. While this was occurring, Magnum and Rattler, with help from Benji and Claude, were studying the new FLIR defeating gilly suits and other equipment brought back to Safehaven. By the time the de-brief was completed, it had become dark.
Coming out of the conference room, Laura was met by Darren who said, “It’s getting late, hun. We need to figure out sleeping arrangement for the Canadians. I don’t think it’s a good idea to send them down to the Wilsons’ farm in the dark. It might be better to bed them down here tonight and get a fresh start tomorrow.”
Laura smiled and said, “I think you’re right. Any suggestions?”
“We should split them up. We can set up cots for them. We can have one sleep in the back of the van, one in the barn, one in our guestroom, and the other two in separate conference rooms. We can zip-tie them to something immovable so they can’t get out overnight. We can have the dogs on patrol and someone in over watch at the LP/OP with the high-powered FLIR scopes and the gillie suit just in case.”, said Darren.
“Sounds good.”, said Laura, “I like the idea of using the van. Okay, let’s do it.”
Laura explained the sleeping arrangement to the group and it was agreed to. It was decided that Benji would sleep in the van, Claude would get the barn, Don would use Laura and Darren’s guest room, and Bill and Phil would spend the night in separate conference rooms.
Quickly cots were set up with bedding at the separate location and the guests were allowed one last bathroom break before being zip-tied and locked into their bedrooms for the night.
“You’ve done a great job getting this retreat set up, Mrs. Smith.”, said Don, laying down in the bed of the guest room, “If you don’t mind, I’d like to take a look at your medical facilities tomorrow. I’m certified as a medic and I hope I can be of service to the group.”
“I can certainly show you around as long as you promise to call me Cassie.”, said Laura with a smile, zip-tying Don’s arm to the bed frame.
Once Don was secured in the guest room, Laura walked into the master bedroom where Darren was just slipping into bed.
“This is not the kind of hospitality I thought we would be giving our first houseguest.”, she said as she took off her Glock shoulder holster and put it on her nightstand.
“It’s safer for everyone and it’ll allow them and us to get at least a little rest tonight.”, replied Darren, flipping the covers open for his wife.
“I could tell Clarice was still a little worried though.”, said Laura, slipping under the covers.
“Yeah, I saw that too. She’s a mama bear when it comes to the kids. It’s natural. Speaking of kids, Eugene is at the LP/OP with Boomer for the first shift. I think that’s great. It’ll be good for him.”, said Darren.
“I think so too. When Tara heard about that, she wanted to be on the second shift with Magnum. Martha put up a fuss, but in the end with a little coaxing from Henry, she allowed it.”, said Laura, curling up into Darren’s arms.
“It’s nice to see them taking the initiative. We have a good group here and with the Canadians keeping watch at a distance, we shouldn’t have any surprises.”, said Darren, “Do you really think they’re okay?”
“I think so, but just to be on the safe side, I sent out a couple of emails to our intelligence contacts asking about them. Let’s see what comes back, if anything. What was it Reagan used to say? “Trust but verify”.”, asked Laura.
“That and ‘I’m going to take a nap, now. Haig’s in charge.’”, said Darren with a chuckle, “We should get some sleep. We’ve got a lot to do tomorrow with setting up the Wilsons’ place and finishing off installing the woodstoves. Just thinking about it is making me sore.”
“And not the good kind of sore.”, purred Laura, giving Darren a sensual kiss, before rolling over and wrapping herself with Darren’s arm.
“Good night, Mrs. Smith.”, said Darren.
“Good night, Mr. Smith.”, replied Laura.
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Post by accountant on Apr 11, 2019 13:29:13 GMT -6
Chapter 27
The Canadians and Shiva
The overnight hours were uneventful and Don and the other “guests” were happy to have their zip ties cut in the morning. Breakfast was pancakes and scrambled eggs with freeze dried bacon and canned orange juice or coffee. All of it was gratefully prepared by the Canadians.
As everyone ate, the Safehaven group got to know the Canadian delegation a little better.
Bill was originally from Northern Ontario in the small town of Collingwood. In high school, he had been a member of the school marching band and played the tuba. He had hunted deer and bear in the Ontario woods and the Smokies almost reminded him of home. After high school, he had joined up and did two tours of Afghanistan before being picked up by CSIS. His only family were his retired parents and an older brother who was the general manager of the Blue Mountain resort.
Don grew up in Banff, Alberta in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. He was an avid skier and snowboarder and spent many a winter skiing and snowboarding down Mount Norquay , until he had a particularly bad crash which saw him leg in a cast for two months. During his down time, Don developed an interest in medicine and human physiology. That lead him on a path which would see him become an emergency room doctor and a field medic for the Canadian armed forces. He was in the emergency room at the Ottawa General Hospital when a terrorist group attacked Canada’s parliament buildings bring with it many casualties. That was the impetus for Don to join CSIS.
Benji was from Montreal. He was raised within the Jewish enclave of West Island. His father had tried to convince Benji to join in the family’s bustling textile business, but Benji had a wanderer’s heart and couldn’t see himself cooped up in an office for the rest of his life. Doing well in high school, Benji attended Royal Military College Saint-Jean earned his degree in mechanical engineering and was commissioned in the RCAF. He had a wife named Ruth and a son named David who were still living in Montreal with Benji’s parents. David was three years old.
Claude grew up in Kanata, a suburb of Ottawa. He was a chemistry whiz when he was younger and had been kicked out of Earl of March High School in his junior year for accidently blowing up the chemistry lab by combining some normally non-combustible chemicals and adding heat from the Bunsen burner. The experiment had forced him to complete his high school education in an alternative school but also got the attention of several university chemistry departments. He received a full scholarship to University of Western Ontario and was in his final year of his undergraduate degree where he received several offers from international pharmaceutical conglomerates as well as biochem startups before being approached by CSIS.
Phil was born and raised in the gritty streets of Windsor across the Detroit River from the US. He had joined a local gang in his early years and hustled the area around the Windsor Casino before upgrading to stealing cars and smuggling contraband across the border. After just turning eighteen, he and other gang members were in a stolen car being chased by another gang. During the chase, Phil hung out the window of the car and, using a rifle, blew out the front tires of the chase vehicle using only two shots. Although it looks easy in the movies, these were actually impossible shots. All this was captured on different city surveillance cameras. When Phil was eventually caught, an armed forces recruiting officer and the crown attorney offered him a plea deal where he wouldn’t go to prison if he joined the armed forces. Phil took the offer and joined the army, where he attended sniper school and was loaned out to other services in the Middle East for special assignments. Officers in his battalion noticed his special skill sets and quietly provided that information to CSIS.
As they talked, Clarice seemed to relax and actually smiled at some of the stories. The fact that the Canadians were polite and respectful didn’t hurt either.
After breakfast, the Canadians again cleaned up the dishes and were ready to take on anything else that needed doing.
The first thing on the agenda was setting up the rest of the wood stoves and finishing piling up the cords of wood. The rest of the morning was spent taking care of these tasks and as Darren laid the last of the cut wood into the pile beside the barn, he could feel his back beginning to ache. He could see that the Canadians didn’t appear to be sore at all and were stacking wood easily. He hadn’t seen Laura for most of the morning as she was busy explaining the medical facilities to Don and understanding his capabilities.
Just before noon, Boomer, Darren, Magnum, Bill, and Claude had filled up the van with supplies needed to get the Wilsons’ old farm ready for habitation. Boomer got into the driver’s seat and turn the key in the ignition. Nothing happened. He tried cranking the engine again and still nothing.
“Magnum, I’m turning the key and nothing’s happening.”, he yelled out the window.
“Try the lights and the radio.”, suggested Magnum as he came around to the front of the van.
“I’ve got nothing.”, came the reply.
“Do me a favor and pop the hood. I’ll check the connections here. In the meantime, can you go into comms and see if you can get anything on the radio?”, asked Magnum.
Boomer went into the main building while Magnum looked under the hood of the van. A quick check revealed that the battery was fully charged and there were no cables disconnected. The vehicle should have tried to turn over at least.
“I’ve got nothing but static coming over the radio.”, said Boomer, walking back to the van.
“I think it’s begun.”, said Claude, softly, “Shiva has come to America.”
“Who?”, asked Boomer.
“When Oppenheimer was working on the Manhattan project and developing the atomic bomb, after the first explosion, he said “I am become Shiva, destroyer of worlds.” I think the EMP just went off. The destroyer of America as we know it has arrived.”, replied Claude.
“Are we sure?”, asked Darren, “I mean, there was no big flash of light or anything.”
“If there was one Super-EMP, they probably set it off over Nebraska. That would cover the whole continental US and most of southern Canada. Where we are, we don’t have to see the flash to feel the effects.”, said Boomer, “For the most part, the country just got kicked back to the 1800’s.”
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Post by sniper69 on Apr 11, 2019 15:00:35 GMT -6
Thank you for the newest chapter. It sounds like the brown stuff is about to hit the fan.
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Post by 9idrr on Apr 11, 2019 20:55:06 GMT -6
When do we find out who's doing this is?
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Post by accountant on Apr 17, 2019 9:59:47 GMT -6
Chapter 29
Information and Seeking Guidance
“Boomer, status report.”, commanded Laura as she walked out of the main building with Don.
“Looks like the balloon just went up, Spider.”, replied Boomer, “The van was just working twenty minutes ago and now isn’t. I can’t reach anyone on the radios either.”
“Okay, we were prepared for this. Let’s get some lunch into us first. We are going to have a busy afternoon in front of us. Boomer, I want you and Magnum to get our stuff out of the EMP locker. Hopefully it’s still functional. You can connect the radios, and computer and see if we can get any communication from the outside world. Bill, I need you and your team to re-connect the solar panels and inverters on the barn and the main building. Since they weren’t connected, the EMP shouldn’t have impacted them. That’ll generate some electricity for the batteries and allow us to have some juice running. Henry, I need you, Rattler, and Chad to pull the solar panels out of storage for each of the homes. We won’t have electricity to run the power tools yet, but at least we can start setting up the frames on the roofs. Henry, can we get Eugene and Tara up to LP/OP for the afternoon? I don’t think anything is going to happen, but it doesn’t hurt to have eyes up there.”, said Laura.
Lunch was a quick meal of sandwiches and soup before everyone got to work. The apprehension was in the air as the team scrambled like ants on their assigned tasks. By late afternoon, the radios had been connected as had the solar panels and inverters. The panel frames had been put up at Rattler, Magnum, and the Wilsons’ place had also been installed. Laura called another meeting to provide an update to everyone.
“Okay everyone, we’ve had a good day today and got quite a lot done. I want to thank Bill and his team for their help with the solar panels. Boomer was able to get some information over shortwave from Europe and it’s not good, I’m afraid. Just before noon today, a Super-EMP missile was set off from a container park in Nebraska and it exploded 30 miles in the air, wiping out all circuit boards and electronics not shielded across the continental US including southern Canada. About ten minutes before that, a suitcase nuke was set off in DC. The White house, Capitol Hill, and most federal buildings are gone. At this time, we don’t know if the president is alive or not. We have to assume that he isn’t. No one has taken responsibility for this yet, but we believe, based on our previous information that China, Russia, and Mexico are behind it. There are reports that Russia is crossing the Bering Strait into Alaska and their military ships are steaming towards Vancouver and Washington state. News agencies are reporting that North Korea is taking this opportunity to flood across the DMZ into South Korea, and China is massing troops to go into Taiwan. If things go as suspected, we’ll see the Mexican armed forced move across the border at San Diego, Laredo, El Paso, and Tucson. The incursion is imminent. Their bombers will hit the oil refineries in Texas and Louisiana to cut off supplies for the American armed forces before the Mexican army moves in. They’ll have to fight their way through Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and most of Tennessee before they get to here so we’re safe here for the next few months.”, said Laura, stoically.
“Do you think we’ll make it?”, asked Missy, taking Magnum’s hand into hers.
Laura looked into the eyes of the worried mother and said, “Missy, by the time the Mexicans get here, they’ll be exhausted. We’ll be fresh, and we’ll have the advantage of the knowing these hills better than they do. I definitely believe that we have a better than fighting chance. We’ll make it.”, said Laura, not mentioning the possibility of the Chinese or Russians.
“What do we do now?”, asked Martha.
“We do what we’ve already been doing. We continue to prepare, continue to grow food, continue to train, and we survive. This is our home and the children are our children. I can’t yet speak for Bill and his team, but I can speak for the rest of us. We are more than ready to protect this place and everyone in it with our lives.”, came Laura’s response.
Bill stood and said, “You’re just starting to know us, but since we can’t go home, this is our home now. You folks have welcomed us, albeit cautiously and we’ll do whatever we can to keep this home and these children safe come hell or high water.”
As Bill sat down, Magnum stood and said, “I know it isn’t Sunday, but in light of what happened and what will happen, I’d like to take this time to say a prayer to the man upstairs.”
The community stood and bowed their heads as Magnum spoke, “Lord, you have watched over us in all our undertakings to this point. Now a new threat has reared its head. Lord, please continue to watch over us and strengthen us in the hard times to come. You know all we have done, You know all that is coming, and You know what is in our hearts. You have commanded us to fear not and as your servants we will try to do as You command, but if we slip, please support us. We know not what the future holds, but Your will must be done. This we are assured. Please guide us, keep us on the right path, and lead us where You need us to be. Please keep Your light in our hearts and help us to keep your children safe. As always, our lives are in Your benevolent hands. All we ask is that Your grace and mercy continue to illuminate the righteous path. Amen.”
A chorus of amens spread through the solemn group.
“Okay folks, we still have a lot to do.”, said Laura, “we still need to finish setting up the Wilson’s farm today. The solar panels will need to go up. The horses need to start being trained to pull the old plow. Boomer will be setting up a schedule for the LP/OP overwatch and a schedule for food preparation will be organized. For those who aren’t at the LP/OP, preparing food, or performing other needed tasks, a training plan for weapons, hand to hand combat, and physical fitness will be initiated. Time is on our side, let’s make the most of it.”, said Laura.
Safehaven and the Wilsons’ old farm was a hive of activity over the next little while with the only rest being when the residents laid their heads down at night. Then one afternoon, a week later, Don and Bill came running through the trees from the Wilson farm to Safehaven. They jumped the fence at the gate and ran towards the main building, where Boomer, Darren, and Laura were already assembled, having been alerted by the dogs of the two men’s approach.
“There’s a vehicle coming.”, said Don, out of breath, “An old deuce and a half. It looks like fifteen to twenty National Guardsmen. No artillery, rifles and small arms only. ETA 2 minutes.”
“Darren, go get the children, the Wilsons, and Clarice and Missy into the main building through the back door. Quick!”, ordered Laura.
Darren ran towards Clarice’s house where the two women were already on the porch with weapons at the ready, “Get the children to the main building, now!”
Without stopping, Darren ran up the hill to the barn.
“Henry, Martha, Eugene, Tara! Get to the main building, now!”, he yelled.
Together, the five ran back and were inside the main building just as the old military vehicle stopped twenty feet from the gate.
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Post by biggkidd on Apr 17, 2019 11:18:56 GMT -6
Nicely done CLIFFHANGER
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Post by freebirde on Apr 17, 2019 15:25:01 GMT -6
Is your real world name Clifford R. Hangs?
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Post by accountant on Apr 22, 2019 9:29:21 GMT -6
Chapter 30
A Marriage Proposal
The driver of the big rig cut the engine and the machine just sat there on the road for the longest time.
“What are they doing?”, asked Darren, crouched by the front door with Laura.
“I have no idea.”, was her reply.
“Should we say something?”, he asked.
“Nope. They came here for a reason. They’ll tell us soon enough. Just stay ready.”, said Laura in a whisper.
Finally, the National Guardsmen jump out of the truck and walked to the gate.
“Hello the retreat!”, one of the men yelled, over the sound of the dogs barking at the gate.
There was no response from anyone in the building.
“Hello, the retreat!”, yelled the man again.
Laura looked over at Boomer and nodded.
“Who are you and what do you want!”, Boomer yelled back.
“How ‘bout you call off the dogs so we can talk more reasonable? Of if you like we can quiet them down for you!”, yelled the man, which met with a chorus of chuckles from his men.
Boomer called the dogs to the front of the main building where they were on guard but quiet.
“Okay, now who are you and what do you want?”, asked Boomer again.
“My name is Sergeant Roy Pritchard and me and my boys here are with the Tennessee National Guard.”, said the man.
“I’m happy for you. Now what do you want?”, asked Boomer.
“We’re here to talk to Henry Wilson.”, said Roy.
“There’s nobody here by that name. Be on your way.”, yelled out Boomer.
The man was starting to get a little agitated and said, “Look, I don’t know who you are, but I want to talk to Henry Wilson. We know he’s here. It’s about Charlie Fitch.”
“Who’s Charlie Fitch?”, asked Laura, looking over her shoulder at Henry.
“Charlie’s Ken and Sarah Fitch’s boy. Nothing but a troublemaker. He was always sniffing around Tara ‘til she finally told him off in town one day and he just dropped off the face of the earth ‘bout six months back.”, said Henry.
“What about Charlie Fitch?”, asked Boomer back to the gate.
“I really don’t feel like yelling. Can’t we just come in and talk, respectful-like? We could have just driven right through your gate, you know.”, said Roy.
“No, we’re fine talking like this.”, said Boomer, “And if any of you turn the crank of that truck, it’ll be the last thing you do.”
“Mister, I hope you’re not threatening members of the National Guard. That’s a felony and we’d have the right to arrest you and everyone else on the property.”, “said Roy.
“It wasn’t a threat, just a warning. Now, what about Charlie Fitch?”, yelled Boomer.
“Is Henry Wilson with you?”, asked Roy.
Getting fed up, Henry yelled back, “Yeah, I’m here. What’d you want?”
A chuckle went through the soldiers and Roy said, “Well Henry, here’s the thing. Old Charlie here’s got into his head that he’s in love with your daughter, Tara. He plumb can’t live without her. And with all the nonsense going on in the world, he figures he just has to do right by her and make her his wife. Now can we honestly to stand in the way of true love, Henry? I don’t think so. Me and my boys, we just had to help the lad out, you know what I mean?”
Laura turned to Darren, handed him her keys, and said, “Take the women and children down into the underground storeroom and lock the doors behind you. Lock Missy, Martha, and the kids into the armory and you and Clarice cover the door. Don’t open the door for anyone, period.”
Darren hesitated before Boomer said, “Do it Flower. Things could get ugly up here and the kids don’t need to see it.”
Darren quickly left to do what Laura had said.
“Boomer, Henry, give me three minutes to get into position.”, said Laura as she quickly moved to the back door of the main building.
“You still there Henry?”, asked Roy.
Boomer nodded to Henry.
“Yeah, I’m still here. If Charlie Fitch is man enough to want my daughter’s hand, let him ask for it himself.”, yelled Henry.
The men at the gate laughed and push a young man towards the front.
“Mr. Wilson, sir, I’m here to ask for Tara’s hand in marriage.”, came the squeaky voice.
Henry paused before answering and then said, “Charlie Fitch, you ain’t done nothin’ but cause trouble around here and given heartache to your Ma and Paw your whole life. You ain’t never gonna get my Tara’s hand in marriage, now turn around and get the hell outta here!”
“That’s where you’re wrong, Henry.”, said Roy, “Charlie’s changed. He’s become a contributing member of society now. He’s part of the National Guard trying to keep everyone safe.”
“I said no, dammit!”, yelled Henry.
Roy was quiet for a while and then said, “I tried it the easy way. Here’s the hard way. We’re going to come into this retreat and Charlie’s going to marry your daughter. But, we’re going to be nice. We’re going to let everyone live and continue to work on the farm and my boys and I are going to help you by providing security. Bad times are coming and you’re going to need it.”
“We’ve got all the security we need. You just head back where you came from.”, said Boomer.
“Listen mister. I’ve got sixteen men here. You’ve got maybe five. I really don’t’ want any bloodshed, but we’ll do what we have to so just open the gate or we’ll break it down.”, said Roy.
“Not gonna happen, pal.”, said Boomer, “Move along.”
Roy turned to one of his men and said, “Riggs, get in the truck and smash through that damn gate.”
As the man began to move towards the truck, Boomer fired a shot on the ground just between the man and the truck. Roy and his men ran for cover behind the vehicle.
Roy and his men began putting down suppression fire towards the main building as Riggs ran around and jumped into the cab of the military vehicle. As soon as he turned the key in the ignition, Laura fired from her position. The driver’s side windshield shattered, and Riggs’ brain splattered throughout the cab.
As the men began to run across the road towards the ditch, one by one they fell from the weapons being fired from the main building, and Laura’s secondary location. The four who had made it to the tree line on either side were met by Phil and Claude who quickly dispatched them with kitchen knives.
Boomer and Henry watched and waited but there was no sound coming from the road or the ditches. Suddenly there was movement in the trees beside the road.
“There’s someone in the trees.”, said Henry.
“Don’t worry, I got them.”, whispered Boomer.
“Don’t shoot!”, yelled Claude, “It’s me Claude. I’m on the right side coming out.”
“Phil here!”, yelled Phil, “Coming out on the left.”
Both men came out of the trees holding their hand above their heads.
“Anyone get past you two?”, asked Boomer.
“Negative.”, said both men.
“Grab a couple of weapons and check for survivors. We’ll cover you from here.”, yelled Boomer.
Claude and Phil checked the bodies and once they were confident, Phil said, “Seventeen unfriendlies down. All clear.”
Rising from their positions, Boomer and Henry walked out of the main building, with Don and Bill behind them, towards the gate.
Survey the death around them, Henry shook his head and just said, “What a waste.”
“Come on. Let’s put the bodies on the back of the truck before the kids see them.”, said Boomer.
Together the six men were piling the bodies into the truck when Laura arrived.
“Nice shooting, Spider.”, said Boomer as she approached.
Ignoring the compliment, Laura helped hauling the bodies out of the trees.
“All that shooting caused quite a ruckus.” said Henry, “Sure hope it doesn’t bring others around.”
Just after Henry said these words, Benji came running out of the woods.
“Two more deuce and a halfs coming up the road. Fully loaded. ETA 2 minutes.”, he said, while trying to catch his breath.
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