The Line In The Sand

[shortydawkins]

This is a book I began a few years ago but hit the wall with it. I think I'll go back to it.

 The Line In The Sand

1

   “Badger, speaking”, came the voice at the other end of the line.
   “Badger, this is Eagle", came the reply. “Look for visitors, starting tomorrow.”
   “How many?”
   “Everyone.” Eagle told him.
   “Shit!” Badger responded, knowing something was up. “Party time?”
   “You guessed it, my friend. The big party. I’ll be there by five.”
   “Right, Eagle, we’ll be ready.”
   “That’s what I like about you, Badger, nothing bothers you.” Eagle said, meaning it as a compliment.
   “Heh. My friends never bother me. It’s those other shit-heads that bother me.”
   Eagle could picture Badger’s evil grin as he thought about those ‘other shit-heads’.
   “As you might guess, I’ve got a pile of stuff to get ready before my guests arrive, so I’ll say ta-ta for now, Eagle. See you when you get here.”
   Eagle smiled, as the phone went dead, thinking of Badger. Poor Badger had less than 24 hours to prepare for 60 families, over a hundred people, as his houseguests. Strangely though, Eagle knew Badger would have everything prepared. Badger was like that. Give him an impossible job to do and he somehow got it done. Badger was, in his own words, ‘a hardworking son-of-a-bitch’.
   “I like a challenge” he had said to him at their one-and-only face-to-face meeting five years earlier. “You see, I’ve got this big chip on my shoulder that tells me I’d better work harder than those shit-heads, or they might get me, and that ain’t gonna happen.”
   All of Eagle’s friends had that same chip on their shoulders. That is why they were his friends. The battle against those who would enslave the world, or the ‘shit-heads’, as Badger called them, was not a child’s game. Everyone in Eagle’s group was expected to give their all, as Eagle and Badger exemplified by their tireless efforts.
   Eagle had learned from a trusted ‘inside source’, that the shit was about to hit the fan. It was time to gather his people together and go underground. The internment camps were completed, and the orders soon to be sent out to arrest the ‘subversive elements’. Eagle’s name was on the list, along with a half-dozen of his friends; Moose, Bear, Antelope, Sparrow, Hawk and Owl. The camps were but a first step by the ‘Elite’ to subdue the population. It was Eagle’s groups responsibility to keep alive the spirit of freedom, while causing as much trouble for ‘the powers-that-be’ as possible. The sixty families were under no illusions. They knew their lives, as well as their liberties, were at stake.
   As Eagle packed, referring to a list he had prepared long ago, he reflected on his ‘group’, feeling very satisfied that he he had recruited an excellent bunch. He allowed himself the opportunity to think of the possibility, which he normally kept from his mind, that some of them would not live through the coming fight. Would he? He knew there would be little time for grief in the coming days, weeks, months, or even years of chaos, so let this be my moment of sorrows to come, and be done with it.
   Badger woke early the next morning, having been up past midnight, and to his surprise, his younger brother, Beaver, was already up and about. Badger had barely finished his coffee when Beaver came strolling in, grabbed a cup of coffee for himself, and proceeded to rib Badger for his laziness.
   “Well, brother Badger, while you were resting, I went out and opened all the windows on the cabins and turned the water on.” He was careful not to smirk, or smile openly. “We’ve got chores to do, and lots to accomplish, to get us ready for our guests.”
   “Do you mean to tell me you haven’t got the cows milked yet? Little brother, I am shocked and amazed. You’ve been slacking again, I see.” Badger’s mock surprise was just part of their game. As brothers will, they were always egging each other on in a competitive way. “Bucko and Biff should be down any time now. They can take care of the chickens and the pigs. Why don’t I take care of the cows, since it’s my turn. You can deal with the horses.”
   “Sounds like a plan to me, brother Badger.” He downed his coffee in one swallow and headed out the door.
   Badger had to smile, thinking about his brother calling him Badger, getting used to using his code name before the ‘guests’ arrived. It would be odd for him to call his little brother Beaver, but he would have to get used to it. He reminded himself to make sure the boys, Bucko and Biff, called their Uncle and Aunt by their code names.
   The sound of footsteps in the upstairs hall told him the boys were on their way downstairs, so he prepared coffee for them. They were good boys, hard-working and well mannered, good with animals, and both were amiable lads, not sullen and withdrawn, as so many teenagers were these days. Badger wondered if the fact they were home-schooled had anything to do with it.
   “Good morning, boys,” he greeted them as they entered the kitchen. “Thanks for the help yesterday, it was much appreciated.”
   “No problem, Dad. Glad to help.” Bucko, the eldest, answered.
   “Yeah, Dad, we know how hard you and Mom work. We’re just glad we could chip in.” Biff chimed in. “Ooh, coffee!” He exclaimed as Badger placed a cup in front of each of them.
   “Drink your coffee, boys. There’s more fresh coffee in the pot. If you would take care of the chickens and the pigs, Uncle Beaver and I will handle the cows and horses.”  Badger started towards the door, then turned to them, again. “Remember, I’m Badger now, and Mom is Dove. Your Uncle and Aunt are Beaver and Sparrow. No slip ups.”
   The boys nodded in understanding as Badger disappeared out the door. Biff waited a moment, sipping his coffee, before asking his bigger brother, “What’s up, do you suppose?”
   “Don’t know, Biff.” Bucko said, with a shrug. “Dad says the whole team is coming in. Whatever it is, it must be big. You know how the team works, if we need to know, they’ll tell us.”
   “Yeh, I suppose you’re right.” Biff grumbled, his curiosity  unsatisfied.
   Bucko swallowed the last of his coffee and stood up. “You all set Biff?”
   “Yeh,” Biff replied gulping the last of his own coffee. “Little chickies, here I come.”
   “And watch out little piggies, cuz Bucko is on his way.” They laughed as Bucko gave Biff a little shove out the door.
   When Bucko and Biff finished their chores, they joined their Mother, and Aunt ‘Sparrow’, preparing the cabins for occupancy.  The beds and linnens having been done all ready, the boys concentrated on filling the pantries and  stocking firewood.
   There were 10 cabins, nestled in the trees, four of which held three cots each, and 6 larger ones with six cots in them. Some of the team members had their own motor homes, the cabins filled the need for those who did not have one. Each cabin had a bathroom and a pantry jutting out from the back of the cabin. A pot-belly stove supplied the heat, and a small kitchenette area with a sink and small propane stove and a
refrigerator. The cabins were simple and sparse, built for shelter and efficiency, not comfort. Each cabin had a telephone which was connected to the main house. These were for communication inside the ‘Compound’. The campsites for the motor homes were also hooked up to the Compound network. All the campsites and cabins were nestled in a large pine grove, behind a rise, making them hidden from view on the main road. The only means of access to the cabins and campsites was a dirt road leading from behind the barn.
   Within the Compound, or the ‘Farm’, as it became known as, were several underground storage bunkers containing enough food and supplies for one hundred people for at least a year, and also large quantities of guns and ammunition, including hand grenades, bazookas, and some stinger rockets.
At noon-time, Beaver positioned himself at the end of the driveway. He’d brought with him a lawn
hair, which he set in the shade of an old sugar maple tree. He had a pitcher of iced tea, and of course his pipe, and he was just playing the part of a fellow enjoying the nice spring day. He also had with him a clip-board with code names and housing assignments.
   He hadn’t been sitting there more then a few minutes, barely enough time to enjoy his pipe, when a pick-up truck pulled up, behind it a horse trailer. When it stopped by the driveway, Beaver strolled over. The window was open on the passenger side and Beaver could see a woman, and beyond her a man driving.
   “Hi there, friend. Can I help you?” Beaver offered politely.
   “Perhaps,” the driver replied. “I heard tell of a friend of mine having a big shindig today. Might this be the place?”
   “Well, it might be, if your friend goes by the name of Eagle.” Beaver extended his hand in greeting. “I’m Beaver. Welcome to the party.”
   “I’m Hawk“, the driver replied, “and this is my wife, Blackbird.”
   “Drive on up behind the barn, Hawk. Badger, or one of his two sons, Bucko or Biff, will give you a hand unloading the horses.” Beaver instructed him, pointing to the barn. He looked at his clipboard a moment. “You’ll be bunking at my place next door.” He pointed to a house further down the road. “My wife, Sparrow, will help get you settled in.”
   “Pleased to finally meet you, Beaver,” Hawk said with a wave as he pulled into the driveway.
   He had no sooner disappeared out of sight behind the barn when a big motor home came into view. The motor home turned out to belong to Leopard and his wife, Grey Owl. Beaver gave them their campsite assignments and they, too, went up the driveway. The rest of the team came to the Farm throughout the afternoon, singly, in pairs, or as families. Roughly half of them were single, and of the married ones, both spouses were actual team members in only five instances. In the other cases, the spouse had no particular function but would give assistance whenever possible. The last to arrive was Eagle. As he gave his code name to Beaver, Beaver broke into a wide grin.
   “All present and accounted for, chief.” Beaver said happily. “Let the games begin.”
   Eagle smiled in return, then offered Beaver a ride up to the main house, which Beaver accepted, grabbing his lawn chair and pitcher of tea.
   As Eagle pulled his Jeep behind the barn, Eagle saw Badger giving directions to several team members. He stopped the car and watched Badger for a few minutes, before saying, “He reminds me of a Sergeant I once knew. Damn fine man. Got things done. Period.”
   They got out of the Jeep, and as they did so, Badger turned to look in their direction. On seeing Eagle, with Beaver beside him, Badger unceremoniously raised his arm in the air, extending his middle finger in the well known gesture. Eagle had to laugh at Badger, for he understood what Badger was saying, ‘f*** you, you bastards. We’re all here now, together, and we say, f*** you. We’re not going to take it any more. We draw the line in the sand and say, this is where it ends.’
   They met midway and shook hands, warmly. Though they had met just once, eye to eye, they had been in constant communication over the past five years.
   “It’s good to see you again, Badger.” Eagle told him, meaning it, sincerely.
   “Same here, Eagle.” Badger paused a minute, thinking. “It’s difficult to imagine it’s been five years.”
 “Yup, five years.” Eagle nodded in agreement. “Oh, by the way, thanks for throwing the party.”
   “Hey, no problem. Glad you could make it on short notice.” Badger looked at Eagle closely for a minute.
You know, Eagle, you could stand to get out in the sun more often. You’re looking a little pale.”
   “And I’m sure you have lots of chores for me to do, outside chores, that will put some color in my cheeks. Haven’t you.” Eagle said with a knowing wink.
   “That I do, my friend. Since you’ll be spending time, here, I’ll think of lots of things to keep you occupied.”
   “I’m sure you will. Just tell me what, where, and when. I won’t bother to ask why, since you’ll tell me it’s none of my business.” Eagle got a smile out of Badger with that one. “Where’s Hawk? I need to talk with him.”

   “You know, Eagle, the reason I didn’t recruit Billy to our group is that I didn’t want to be responsible for getting him into this business.” He looked at his hands a minute, then laughed derisively. “I didn’t want my brother’s blood, my best friends, blood on my hands.  What a crock of shit! Damn! I just wanted Billy to live through this bull-shit. I don’t know if I’ll make it through, or you, or Leopard, or Lightning, but dammit, I wanted Billy to make it through.”
   “I know what you are saying, Hawk. I want Lightning to make it through this bull-shit, too.”
   Hawk looked at Eagle for a minute, as if he were trying to find the strength he knew Eagle had, to draw on it. Finally, Hawk shuddered, took a step back, and a weak smile appeared on his face. “Thanks, Eagle. I’ll be all right. I’ll see this thing through for Billy, and for Lightning.”
   “It’s a deal, good buddy.” Eagle extended his hand and  Hawk grasped it firmly. “Together.” To break the moment Eagle said, “Let’s get something to eat, I’m starving. I’m calling a group meeting at nine o’clock tonight in the indoor range. I’ve got to keep up my strength.”

  The ‘indoor range’ was actually an underground range. It was built with concrete floors and wall, with concrete slabs for a ceiling. It was 18’ wide, and 250’ long, and was covered with a foot or more of dirt. Special acoustic baffles had been added which made any sound within unnoticeable from more than fifty feet on the outside, no matter what gun was used inside.
   Eagle had chosen it for his meeting because it was the only place big enough to hold everyone. A little before nine, the team members and their families began gathering, and at precisely nine Eagle called for their attention.
   “As you are all aware, the shit has hit the fan. What you don’t know, most likely, is, what shit has hit which fan. I’ll tell you now.
   “Yesterday morning, at 9:05 AM, I received a warning from my source inside the Justice Department. At 9:53 AM, I received a similar warning from my source inside the NSA. Since those initial two warnings I have received confirmation from five other distinct sources. I issued the alarm to everyone here as soon as I had confirmation from three distinct sources.
   “All right, let’s get down to business. What was the warning? Just this, the internment camps we knew about, which were being built by a subsidiary of Haliburton, are now complete. Commencing the day after tomorrow, May 19th, the FBI and the US Marshall’s Office, in concert with State Police throughout the country will begin a sweep to arrest and confine ‘known subversive elements’.  The list of ‘subversives’ contains over 7,000 names, including myself and five other members of our group. To put it simply, they want us silenced and out of the way.
   “Additionally, I have a report from a very trusted and reliable source inside the Pentagon that something big is coming down. He hasn’t been able to find out what it is, but senses it is big, and will happen in the next two weeks.
  “Starting now, we are at war. Stay on alert, we could go into action at any time. Beaver will hand out, and post, assignments for perimeter patrol and back-up. If you haven’t done so already, destroy your cell phones and sweep your vehicles for GPS trackers and other devices. Take time to familiarize yourself with the compound , and begin studying the maps of the White Mountain National Forest. The Compound borders the Forest and it will figure prominently in our plans.
   “Bear and Moose will be in charge of weapons distribution, so see them afterwards. Those not assigned particular duties will help with the farm operations and supply distribution. See Badger and Sparrow for assignments. Children will be given chores based on age and abilities.
   “Now, I want to tell you that we are not alone in this fight, my friends. The Rebel Network is large, with many groups similar to ours scattered across the country, some larger, some smaller. I have been told there are units in the military that will join us when the time is right. We also have a very good support network here, locally, which will further help us with supplies and information. Our job is to disrupt the economy, and the functions of government. Most of our actions will be non-violent, at least in the beginning. Of course that depends on the government response to our actions. We will be waiting for the ‘big event’, which appears to be in the pipe-line. What it is, how big it is, and who it affects, will guide us in our actions.
   “Get yourselves prepared and acclimated to the Compound, the Forest, and each other. We don’t know what to expect, at this time, so be prepared for anything. The Rebel Network is the last beacon of freedom in this tightening world of control and slavery, we cannot fail. I repeat, we can not fail.
   “Pick up your patrol assignments from Beaver and get to work, my friends. I will meet with the squad leaders at 0700 hrs., tomorrow, at Badger’s house. Thank you all for being here. Together, we will see this through.
   Badger, Dove, Sparrow and Beaver had been at the Farm, the Compound, for almost five years. They had worked countless hours preparing it to be a last refuge for the team. They knew the terrain, and they had spent many hours hiking and horse-back riding in the White Mountain National Forest. They also had come to know the local residents; which ones to avoid, for instance.  During this time they had developed a network of locals, who, after careful screening and consideration, had been asked to join the project in a support role. Dove, (Badger’s wife), had met Tim and Laura through the local home-schooler’s association. She had learned of their dislike of government, (they are anarchists, she learned), and their fear of what was coming. Neither of them were what you would call activists, but as Dove and Badger got to know them better, they realized Tim and Laura were very interested in doing  something to strike back at the ‘One-Worlders’. Once Dove and Badger were convinced of their sincerity, Tim and Laura were approached about being part of what was to become the ‘local network’, concerned mostly with establishing a supply and intelligence network for the team.
   “What we are suggesting,” Badger told them one evening over dinner, “is for you to keep extra stock-piles of supplies, at our expense. Things like food, medical supplies, tools, or extra fuel. We would install an underground diesel tank, for instance, on your property to be used in the event our group should be activated. Your property borders the Forest, as does ours. Transfer of supplies would be done through the Forest, not the public roads, for security’s sake.”
   Tim and Laura liked the idea, and  the local network was begun. Tim suggested a fellow two towns over for consideration, and after feeling him out Badger recruited him into the fold. Thus did the local network grow, with people throughout the North Country of NH, some with property bordering the Forest, others not, but all were committed to helping the Rebel Network. Tim and Laura set to work developing their Network, which grew to over one hundred members, scattered throughout the North Country. It was comprised of survivalists, anarchists, back-to-the-land types, truckers, and construction workers. All of them felt the increased control of their lives and working environments by a government seemingly hell-bent on destroying their ability to make a living; to survive.

[rvm45]

It seems that it was off to a good start.

It raises a couple questions--that you might already know the answers to, but your readers would be wondering.

1.} What useful purpose would be served, by using totemic code words in face-to-face communication?

And,

2.} Why did they feel that their camp wouldn't simply be invaded like Waco?

No terribly strong efforts at concealment.

.....RVM45

[idahobob]

Good start, keep with it.

Bob
III

[leper]

Good start. Basic info for the start, with very open plot lines from this point.

[shortydawkins]

Eagle awoke at first light, as was his custom, and glanced around the room, the room which was to be his home for the foreseeable future. It was a simple room, much as many bedrooms in old farm houses are, with a small closet, two windows, one facing east, the other north. There was a small bureau for his clothes, and a washstand, which surprised him, but for which he was grateful. Badger, as usual, had been thorough. With a houseful of people and only one bathroom, the men could shave in their rooms, rather than tie up the bathroom. In the corner, between the two windows, was a desk and chair, serviceable and neat, with a phone for outside use, and another for use within the Compound. Pads of yellow legal size paper were piled neatly, with pens and pencils in a cup. The pencils were carefully sharpened, which brought a smile to Eagle’s face.

On the wall, above the desk, on the right corner, was a map of the Forest, and on the left corner was a hand drawn map of the Compound. There were pegs on the backside of the door, and another four foot long group of pegs on the wall next to the door, very suitable for hanging coats and jackets, as well as wet towels. The bed had an old style head and foot board, with a comfortable mattress, simple sheets, and a down comforter. Above the bed, within easy reach, was a rack for his rifle and AK-47 and a peg for his holstered pistol. Again, Eagle had to smile at Badger’s thoroughness.

He could hear some noise downstairs, so he decided to go down and find some coffee. As he stepped out of his room, Bucko also stepped out of his, which startled both of them. After the moment of surprise, they both grinned.

“Morning Mr. Eagle.” Bucko greeted him.

“Just call me Eagle, son.” Eagle requested.

“Yes, sir.” Bucko replied. He pointed towards his brother following him out the door. “The sleepy one is Biff, my brother.”

“You might have been the first out the door,” Biff retorted, “but I was the first out of bed.”

“Looks to me like we’re all early risers.” Eagle pointed out to mollify Biff.

“Good morning, sir.” Biff offered.

“Good morning to you, Biff. You know, I could use a cup of good coffee, and if my sense of smell is right, your Dad has some brewing now.”

As usual Badger was prepared. The coffee was ready, and he and Dove were making breakfast of eggs, ham, toast and juice.

“Have your breakfast now, boys.” Dove told her sons. “Eagle is having a meeting here at seven.”

“Sure, Mom.” said Bucko, with a shrug of acceptance.

“I didn’t mean to mess up your schedule, Dove.” Eagle apologized.

“Not your fault, Eagle.” Dove told him. “You weren’t aware of our schedule.”

“Besides, I think everyone’s schedule will be changing from now on. Right dear?” Badger said, nudging his wife.

“Yes, that’s true enough, but that’s the price we pay, I guess.” said Eagle with a bit of a sigh.

“Any regrets?” Dove asked with a raised eyebrow.

Eagle looked at her, pausing to consider her question. “No, Dove, no regrets. I wished it weren’t all necessary, is all.”

“I know what you mean. We’ve been pushed into it by some very evil people. We’re just saying ‘no more."

“Drawing the proverbial line in the sand, as it were.” Badger added. He put his arm around his wife’s waist and gave her a little squeeze. “I’m just glad I’m making my stand with a great bunch of folks.”

“Keep that thought, Badger, it’s a good one.” Eagle saw the look that passed, fleetingly, between Dove and Badger. “I’d like to think we’ll all make it through this, but I doubt it will happen. That is my biggest regret.”

Everyone was silent, as they thought about those who would not make it, not knowing who they might be. Bucko and Biff watched their parents, silently, and Dove, unconsciously, reached out to touch her sons.

Bucko broke the moment, finally. “Come on Biff, we’ve got chores to do.”

“Yes, Uncle Beaver is probably wondering where we are.” said Biff, as he grabbed his plate and set in in the sink. Bucko did the same, and they headed out the door.

Eagle took his cue from the boys and took his plate, cup and utensils to the sink. He proceeded to roll up his sleeves, as he looked around for some dish soap.

“If you’ll excuse me, I have work to do.” he said as he began filling the sink with hot water. Dove made as if to stop him, but Badger caught her eye and indicated to let him be, motioning that they should leave him alone.

It was good for Eagle to actually be doing something other than thinking and planning, something useful, no matter how simple the task. When his mind became filled with thoughts of what might happen, and to whom, the best thing for him was to get to work, something to take his mind’s focus off his dismal thoughts.



Eagle was finishing washing the dishes when the team leaders, Leopard, Hawk, Moose, Bear and Badger arrived and gathered around the kitchen table. He began the meeting by asking Badger to tell everyone about the ‘local group’ Tim and Laura had developed. Badger spoke in depth of the ways the local group could, and was, lending assistance. He had prepared maps with the locations of the locals homes where emergency assistance could be found, passing them out to the team leaders.

“These local friends have been working very hard to assist our teams.” Badger said. “They are not combatants, though, so try your best to protect their anonymity. Any of them can get word through their own communications network, should the need arise, for any non-combat purpose, including medical assistance.”

When Badger was finished, Eagle laid out responsibilities for each team. “Badger’s team has primary responsibility for the defense of the Compound. Any team not on patrol or assignment outside the Compound will be under his jurisdiction. Beaver and Sparrow, also members of Badger’s team, will act as primary liaisons with the Locals.

“Leopard, Bear and Moose, your teams will be on a rotating schedule working inside the Forest. One team, and sometimes two, will always be in the Forest. Should the Compound come under attack, it is important that at least one team be outside, in a position to gather support from the locals, or the Rebel Group in Maine, to continue the resistance. Occasionally, a second team will be in the Forest, on supply runs to the outposts the locals have set up, or to deliver important communications, or even to set up observation posts.

“Hawk’s team, and my team will be doing freelance ‘disruption’ projects, basically just fucking up the system in any way we can. Badger has told me of some ideas the Locals have come up with that sound interesting and useful. They will be lending assistance with the ideas, in a mostly back-up capacity, though in some instances they are willing to join in.

“I’ll let the Forest groups set up your own rotation schedule. Keep your weapons concealed for the time being.”

Eagle answered a few questions and was about to break up the meeting when Dove knocked on the kitchen door.

“Sorry to interrupt, Eagle, but I thought you might like to know, there have been announcements on the news concerning an important address the President will be delivering at noon.”

“Thank you, Dove.” Eagle looked at Hawk, then Badger. “Could this be the ‘something big’ my sources have been hearing about, I wonder?”

“Could be.” Hawk replied. “We’ll know soon enough.

“It could be just the internment of subversives announcement.” Leopard offered.

“Would the President give that announcement himself?” Bear wondered aloud.

“Not likely, Bear.” agreed Hawk. “More likely to be the Attorney General, or the head of Homeland Security.”

“Well, as Hawk just said, ‘We’ll know soon enough’.” Eagle gave a shrug of dismissal. “We each have work to do, so let’s get at it. Badger, if we can, I’d like to go over your preparations for the defense of the Compound.”

“Sure thing, Eagle. Let me just clear away this mess.” Badger cleared off the table and he and Eagle headed out the back door. Once out side, Eagle called to Hawk and asked him to join them.



They had hardly begun the inspection of the perimeter defenses when Biff came running across the field, calling, “Mr. Eagle, Mr. Eagle.”

“What’s up, Biff?”

“Mom sent me … on the news … all hell is breaking loose.” He gasped, out of breath.

“What the …” Eagle muttered as he sprinted towards the house, with Hawk and Badger close behind. As they entered the room where Dove had the television set up for monitoring, she motioned for silence, pointing to the television.

“To repeat what has happened,” the reporter’s voice began, as the picture showed two men in manacles being led into a room full of reporters and cameras by heavily armed guards, “Two men are alleged to have entered the Senate Chambers, today, and opened fired with automatic weapons, killing ten United States Senators and seriously wounding eight others, before they were overpowered by Senate Security Officers.”

As the reporter’s voice droned on about eyewitness accounts of the attack, the camera went to a close up of each of the two prisoners. The first close up drew an exclamation of “Shit!’ from Eagle, while the second close up drew a “Goddam! That’s Billy! What the f*** is this?” response from Hawk.

“Is this being taped, Dove?” Eagle quickly asked.

“Definitely.” she replied.

“Are they actually claiming they are the two gunmen who shot up the Senate?” Eagle asked in disbelief.

That’s impossible! Billy was taken into custody yesterday, for Christ’s sake!”

“That’s what they’re claiming.” Dove told him.

“F***ing liars!” Hawk spit out.

“Damn right, Hawk! Billy was in custody, and the other guy is Doug, my source at the NSA. Doug is a frigging pencil pusher, for Christ’s sake! They’re being set up as patsies. They must have found out Doug was feeding us information. Quite the handy way to get rid of him, and Billy, for that matter. Seems they want to send us a message, too.”

Hawk was watching the television intently, when Billy, who had been turning his head slightly from side to side, as if saying no, suddenly stopped and looked straight into the camera, smiled, gave a wink, and as Hawk yelled “No, Billy!” ducked down, suddenly, and drove his shoulder into the belly of the guard on his left, knocking the surprised guard onto his back. As the guard landed on the floor, Billy jumped in the air and landed with one foot squarely on the guard’s neck. The snap of his neck could be plainly heard, followed by gunshots from the other guards. At least eight, possibly more shots were fired. Five hit Billy, three Doug, poor Doug, who had done nothing. They were both dead before they hit the floor.

Dove, mercifully, shut off the TV, as they all sat, stunned by what they had seen. Hawk’s eyes teared up, as he clenched and unclenched his fist, unconsciously, fighting to keep control.

“I knew something like this would happen to Billy.” Hawk’s voice was a whisper. “I knew it! Billy told me once he wasn’t going down without a fight. He promised to take out at least one of them, if they got to him. Well, Billy, you got one.” Hawk seemed to be saying it to the blank TV screen. He turned to head out the door. “If you don’t mind, I’d like to be alone for a while.”

“Sure Hawk.” Eagle said in an understanding voice as Hawk disappeared from view.



The Senate shootings, as stunning as they were, were not the only things that happened that morning. As Biff had correctly said: All hell is breaking loose. There was an explosion aboard an Amtrak train traveling from Boston to New York, causing it to derail and killing at least 127 people and injuring many more. An Arab extremist group was purported to have claimed responsibility. The news reporters claimed no knowledge of the Arab extremist group.

Also, several cars full of ‘neo-Nazi’ skinheads were said to have driven through a black neighborhood of Los Angeles, shooting indiscriminately with automatic weapons, killing several dozen, and wounding countless others. In Chicago, several Synagogues were burned down, purportedly by a white supremacist militia group, in a carefully executed operation. In another bizarre incident, an explosive laden truck drove into the lobby of an Atlantic City Casino. The explosion, and the resulting fires, killed in excess of four hundred, while the injured had not yet been tallied. A fundamentalist Christian group supposedly claimed responsibility for the attack.

None of the major media found it the least bit odd that all these deadly attacks occurred on the same morning. Why would groups as disparate as these plan attacks on the same morning, one might ask? The major media had their own far-fetched explanation, claiming there was linkage of these attacks through an underground terrorist network. The attacks proved such a network existed, thereby removing any need for proof.

Watching the news reports over the next hour, or so, Eagle realized he was witnessing an American version of the German Reichstag fire, in this case, a series of staged events, the horror of which would frighten the populace into granting extreme powers to the government, unprecedented, even in the midst of war. He shuddered at the unfeeling, uncaring brutality exhibited by the power hungry bastards.

When the tally of the dead and wounded Senators was released, it confirmed his view that the attacks were staged by members of the ‘shadow government’ and its minions. All ten of the Senators who were killed were out-spoken opponents of the current Administration. Of the seven who were wounded, three were opponents of the Administration, and four were lukewarm supporters. The message had been sent to the surviving Senators, don’t oppose us.

If Billy and Doug didn’t do it, then the ones who falsely claimed, (knowingly so), must have done it. The Feds had Billy under arrest, so he couldn’t have done it. Eagle knew Doug, and he knew Doug would never do something that stupid. The Feds needed scapegoats and they had two perfect candidates for it. Since joining the Rebel Network, Eagle had learned a lot about the ‘Shadow Government’, that nefarious group of powerful bankers, industrialists, intellectuals, media titans, and politicians who sought to bring the world under one Elitist government, the One-World group. The Rebel Network was begun as a means to counter the Elitist One-Worlders.

Eagle had some planning to do, but at noon he was back in front of the television, waiting for the President’s address, only to find it had been postponed until 8:00 PM. The address, it was learned, was to be before a joint session of Congress, which didn’t sound good to him. Something told him something big was going down. Perhaps this was what Doug had been trying to learn.

[shortydawkins]

   While Eagle was catching up on the day’s events, Beaver and Sparrow had been in contact with the locals, letting them know about Billy and Doug, and impressing on them that Eagle’s group had nothing to do with any of the attacks.
   “Laura and I assumed the Government was behind them.” Tim responded. “It was all too pat. And the way the media climbed on board, they were like the government’s lap dogs. Don’t worry, we’re still with you.”
   “Thanks, Tim. That’s nice to hear. It’s good to know there are folks besides us who see the lies and propaganda for what the are.”
   “You know, Beaver, I was down at the coffee shop this morning when it all started happening. They had the TV on and we all watched it. Some of the fellows, there, thought pretty much the same as me and Laura. One of them couldn’t believe the crap he was hearing. As he said: What do they think we are, stupid?”
   “Keep your ears open, Tim, won’t you? Anything we can learn about the local folks, and what they are thinking can only help us.”
   “You’ve got it, Beaver. I’m all ears. Be sure to give our sympathies to Hawk. It must be tough.”
   “Will do, Tim. I’ll talk to you later.”
   Beaver found Hawk and Blackbird sitting quietly together on the front porch of his farmhouse. He took a seat near them and looked out at the fields he and his brother worked together.
   “I can’t imagine what I’d do if something happened to Badger,” he began quietly. “I’m not supposed to tell you this, but his real name is Bill. William, actually, but we always called him Bill. Brothers tend to be competitive with each other, and he and I are always wise-cracking, and what have you, but I love him, and I know he loves me.”
   “We can tell, Beaver.” Hawk said simply, his voice barely above a whisper.
   Beaver nodded his head in understanding, then took more time to look out at the fields.
   “Tim and Laura, of the local group, send their sympathies. They know Billy didn’t do it, that he was set up as patsy.”
   “Thank them for me, will you?”
   “Sure. Well, I’ve got work to do, so I’ll leave you two alone.” And Beaver headed off to the barn.


   The President’s address to the joint session of Congress proved to be as bad as Eagle had feared. After speaking endlessly of the day’s events, and constantly referring to the attackers, tellingly, as subversives and lawless elements, over and over again, he finally got to the point of  his address, which was his decision to invoke Martial Law, with its subsequent suspension of individual rights, including the writ of habeas corpus and the right to bear arms. He proclaimed a three day moratorium on gun ownership, during which time all gun owners were told to turn their guns in to the local police. After the three day period, anyone found in possession of firearms would be subject to immediate arrest and imprisonment. Local, State, and Federal law enforcement officials would be authorized to enter any building suspected of containing firearms without a warrant. The National Guard would also be called up in each State to assist in the collection and confiscation of illegal weapons.
   Watching the President’s address, a plan began to develop in Eagle’s mind, a plan of action based on the millions of gun owners across the nation, and in New Hampshire.
   “Badger, how many of the local group own guns, do you suppose?” he asked.
   “Most, if not all of them, I should think.” Badger replied, wondering where this was headed. “I could have Beaver check it out for you, if you want.”
   “Please, if it’s not too big a deal.” As Badger rose to give Beaver a call, Eagle stopped him with another question. “Before you go, Badger, in looking over your maps, I seem to recall seeing a large field not far from here. North Field, I believe it was called. Is the Field reasonably accessible from a road?”
   “Sure,” Badger assured him. “There’s an old logging road leading up to it a little over a half mile north of here, on our road.” He winked at Eagle, knowingly. “Why do I suspect we’re going to have some fun?”
   Eagle laughed, heartily. “You know me too well, my friend.” Eagle pulled his maps out of his ever present satchel and began studying them. “The shot heard ‘round the world, my friends, that’s what I’m thinking of. It won’t be on a Town Green, but rather, a Forest Green, a Green claimed by the Feds, who, curiously enough, are the ones who are wanting to take our guns away.”
   “And we know that’s not going to happen.” Moose said firmly, and the others nodded their heads in agreement.
   Badger got the information from Beaver in short order. As it turned out, all the locals owned at least one gun, and many owned more than one. The team leaders gathered around the kitchen table, along with Beaver and Sparrow, and the plan was made. The plan was predicated on the old saying, ‘They’ll get my gun from me when they pry it from my cold dead hands.’ Eagle knew that many gun owners were not about to give up their guns willingly.
   Eagle’s plan was a simple one. On the first day that guns were to be illegal, Eagle, Hawk, Leopard, Bear, and their teams, would be in the North Field, along with any of the local group who wished to join them, for the purpose of refusing to relinquish their guns. Beaver and Sparrow would alert the local group through Tim and Laura, and leaflets were printed and would be distributed throughout the area encouraging gun owners who refuse to relinquish their guns, to join them. The leaflets stressed that what was to occur on North Field was an act of rebellion against the Federal Government. North Field was chosen because it was Federal property, and the only authorities with jurisdiction were Federal employees. It was made clear the argument was with the Feds, not the State, or towns, unless, of course, they chose to join with the Feds in suppressing the rebellion.
   As Eagle and the team leaders were working out the particulars of supplies and armaments, positioning and responsibilities, Dove, who spent most of her time in the communications room, came into the kitchen.
   “Sorry to disturb you, Eagle, but you said to bring any messages from Thunderbolt to you immediately.” She handed the message to Eagle.

       Eagle - Rebellion has begun. Little birds seeking a place to nest. Where can they land? Please send co-ordinates. Bringing fresh food and friends. Look for them tomorrow at 1500 hrs. Await your reply.
               Thunderbolt

   “Hmmm… Does this change anything, I wonder? In regards to North Field? I’ll think on that a while.” mused Eagle out loud.
   “Little birds?” Wondered Dove.
   “Helicopters.” Eagle told her. “He doesn’t say how many, but it’s more than one. Knowing Thunderbird, it wouldn’t surprise me if there were quite a few. Food and friends can only mean troops and supplies.”
   “Troops? What kind of troops, do you suppose?” Leopard asked.
   “Probably Special Forces. Thunderbolt has had a lot of success recruiting Special Forces.” Eagle couldn’t suppress a smile. “Thunderbolt does a lot of things extremely well, like recruiting and making money. However, he doesn’t shoot well. Fair warning to everyone.”
   “What does he mean, when he says ‘the rebellion has begun’?” Bear wanted to know. “Is he talking about us, or a wider rebellion?”
   “Both, I think.” Eagle told him. “For a number of years there has been developing a very secret Network of officers from all branches of the military, who are concerned about the direction this country has been heading. They don’t like the fascist neo-cons, and also oppose the One-World Elite. This secret Network has linked up with our own Rebel Network, and they, like us, have been preparing for the day the Government goes to far.” He smiled an evil smile. “It looks like they’ve gone too far.”
   “Who is this Thunderbolt, anyway?” Bear wanted to know.
   “Thunderbolt is one of my recruits.” Eagle explained. I recruited him to make money for us, and he has done a remarkable job. He also has done an incredible job of recruitment. These troops, however many there are, are his recruits. He also has established strong networks in northern New England, and several Provinces of Canada. Our relationship with the Armed Services Network allows us to draw support from them, giving us more strength, and fire power than we could hope to obtain for ourselves. Keep in mind, also, that each recruit within the Armed Forces, is one less man they have.
   “Their Network has the fire power, where ours has the local, grass-root connections. We complement each other. Now, our job is to create distractions and disruptions, keeping as many of the bad guys occupied as we can. We also will continue building our local base of support. Our little North Field Project takes on bigger meaning within the context of the wider rebellion Thunderbolt talks of.
   “I don’t know how many locals will show up in North Field, but be it five, fifty, or two hundred, we will know they are committed, that they have drawn the line in the sand and are saying, ‘no more, I’ve had enough’.”
   “Who will be in command?” Leopard asked, warily.
   “I will be.” Eagle assured him. “We’ll work it the same way we do now. I’ll ask for everyone’s input, but I will make the final decisions.”
   “Fair enough.” Leopard answered, slightly relieved. “When I signed on, it was in the belief you would be giving the orders. I trust you. As long as it stays that way, I’m satisfied.”
   “All right, then. Let’s get to work. Bear and Moose, you get together with Badger and prepare for the new arrivals. Leopard, Hawk and I will finalize the North Field plans. Dove, let me know if there is anything from Thunderbolt or Lightning. I’m surprised I haven’t heard from him.” A look of concern flashed across his face, which he quickly erased.
   The teams worked late into the night, yet were up at dawn, getting the necessaries done. About 10:00 AM, Sparrow came barging into the kitchen where Eagle and Hawk were talking. She must have run the whole way from her house, as she was breathless.
   “My God, Sparrow, take a seat and catch your breath.” Hawk encouraged her, pulling out a chair for her to sit on.
   “Eagle,’ she began between breaths. “It’s incredible. Our phone has been ringing all morning. The local group members have been calling us non-stop. They’re responding to the North Field event. My God, we only sent out the email notification a little after midnight. Sixty-three calls so far, all but one caller will be in North Field. The one not coming, Fred Jackson, wanted to come, but his wife is expecting a baby any day now. Beaver is still taking calls now. Most say they have friends or relatives coming with them.”
   “That’s great news, Sparrow!” Eagle wasn’t sure if he was relieved or excited. Probably both. “This is more than I ever thought would come. It’s great that we have good relations with the locals.”
   “And another thing, Carl and Sheila Robillard were down at the Main Street Coffee Shop this morning, and the Police Chief, Ken Dodge, was having his coffee, so Carl went over to him and asked him if he was going to start confiscating guns. “Well,” the Chief replied, “I’m gonna tell you, and everyone in this place, that I’m not going to confiscate anyone’s guns. It’s just not right. If the Feds want guns confiscated, they can do it themselves.”
   “Good for Chief Dodge!” Hawk exclaimed. “At least someone’s got some good sense around here.”
   A few minutes later, Dove poked her head through the kitchen door.
   “The head of the State Police just held a news conference in which he called for the Governor to repudiate the gun confiscation law. He said if the Governor would not issue an executive order prohibiting the confiscation of guns by State law enforcement personnel, he would tender his resignation.
   When asked why he wanted the Governor to repudiate confiscation, he told them he was sworn to uphold the NH Constitution, which guaranteed  citizens the right to bear arms, and he wasn’t about to sign his trooper’s death warrants by ordering them to confiscate guns.”
   “That’s called putting the Governor on the spot.” Eagle said, grinning ear to ear. “Any word from the Governor?”
   “He’s called a press conference for 2:00 PM.”
   “Well, we’ll have to wait and see.” Eagle said. “I know he has hopes of a high Federal appointment after he finishes his term. Any guesses what he’ll do?”
   “He wants to play with the big boys. He’ll back the Feds.” Leopard said, bitterly.
   The Governor, as Leopard predicted, came down on the side of the Feds in his usual wishy-washy fashion. He made a promise to fly down to Washington to attempt to convince the President to rescind the gun confiscation order. When he left for DC immediately after the press conference, accompanied by his entire family, speculation began as to whether he was leaving for good. Most opined he was deserting NH, and would not return. The radio and television stations all wondered what would happen next. Events seemed to be spiraling out of control. Leaders were resigning, others deserting their posts, nothing made sense any more.
   The Rebels, sitting in the kitchen at the Compound, smiled and nodded their heads, knowing their chance had come.

   At 1430 hrs. a communication was received from the ‘little birds’.
  On schedule. Look to the sky in the southwest. Give us a flare for landing.

   Eagle, Hawk, Leopard and Badger went out to greet them. Badger had planned to bring them down in the field behind the barn, and Leopard was ready with a flare as soon as they came into view. Long before they came into view, they could be heard. As the noise grew louder and louder, and the ‘birds’ were still not in view, the four team leaders looked questioningly at each other.
  “Damn, how many are there?” Leopard asked in amazement.
 “More than two, that’s for sure.” replied Hawk, still looking to see them.
   As they started to come into view, Eagle and his men looked in amazement. There were 14 choppers in all, 4 Cobras, 8 Blackhawks, 2 Hueys and 2 Chinooks.
   “Goddamn,” Eagle yelled above the noise. “That’s a lot of fire power.”
   Leopard lit the flare and one by one the choppers set down. The door of one of the choppers opened and an officer appeared. Eagle saw he was a Captain of the Special Forces. Stepping forward to greet him, Eagle said simply, “Welcome Captain, I’m Eagle.”
   “Thanks, Eagle, I’m Captain Kukesh. Thunderbolt sends his regards.” They shook hands. “I’m at your service, sir. Looks like we’ve got ourselves a revolution.”
   “It looks that way, Captain. What can my men do to help get you settled in?”
   Captain Kukesh gave a wave to the choppers and the engines were killed, and the doors opened.  The soldiers piled out, (90 in all), and began  stretching their legs, giving smiles and waves to Eagle and his men.
   “Well, Eagle, we’ll let the men stretch their legs out a bit, we’ve been cooped up in those things for the better part of fourteen hours, except for a couple of refueling stops. Then we could use some help unloading the supplies and ammunitions. We brought plenty of both.”
   “We’ll rustle up some food for you. Badger, here, is our supply man. He’s also in charge of the compound. He’ll tell you where to set up.” Eagle indicated Badger and the two shook hands.
   “Welcome, Captain, it’s good of you to come to our little party.” Badger said with a grin.
   “Thanks, Badger. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.”
   “Let’s get you help unloading. By the time we’re done we’ll have food ready for you.” Badger put everyone in motion and the choppers were quickly unloaded, and as he had promised, food was ready for the hungry Special Forces men. Badger immediately hooked up with ‘Corky’ the can-do supply man of the Special Forces men, and the two clicked from the start.  They seemed to know what the other was thinking, before a word escaped either of their mouths. Corky quickly learned where the various supply bunkers were located and needed little explanation from Badger as to where to begin setting up the camp for his men. Eagle had to smile at the thought of another ‘Badger’ in their ranks.
   Seeing the number of choppers which would need maintenance and fuel, Badger found two of Eagle’s men, Terrier and Dawg, who had chopper maintenance experience, and the two gladly offered their help to the Special Forces chopper crews. Fuel was another problem. Badger found Beaver and suggested he put the locals to work gathering supplies of diesel fuel as fast as they could, thinking the supply might be limited shortly.
   “Have them fill up their diesel vehicles, 5 gallon cans, and anything they can come up with. Make sure they spread out where they buy it from, too. We don’t need to draw attention to the fact that we’re on a diesel buying spree.” Badger told Beaver. “We’ve got a lot in the underground tanks, here and elsewhere, but those choppers eat it up fast.”
   The Captain waited until all his men were served before he would accept anything but a cup of coffee for himself, which Eagle noted with approval. They sat together in the shade of a big maple tree, and while Capt. Kukesh ate, Eagle briefed him, as best he could, on the Compound, the local group, the political scene, and, lastly, on the up-coming North Field event.

[leper]

Fantastic! Can't wait for the next chapter. It will be interesting to see how their new toys come into play.

[blg]

Only echoing the others, "very good beginning". Though it is disheartening to view almost the same in the news today. Only with a "twist" if you will.

[223shootersc]

thanks, great start, need MOAR

[kaijafon]

sadly this thread is over two years old. I'm not sure if the story will be finished or not.

Shorty Dawkins hasn't been on here since then.

[crf78112]

Sad fact of life, many good stories start and fade away before finished. But for an insomniac, even an unfinished tale beats another game of freecell.