Sample Chapters

After Life as We Know It – Part One

Chapter One

How can such a beautiful morning bring such fear and trepidation? The left-over storm clouds and the rising sun were giving a gorgeous start to what was sure to be a long, horrific day. The rain cooled morning air was going to be stifling when the sun finally breached the horizon. The heaviness of the air was matching Beth’s feelings of helplessness and despair. She couldn’t breathe but it wasn’t from the moisture ridden air pressing her down. The phone call from Principal Davis was still ringing in her ears. Ever since all kids were required to go to the publicly funded government schools, Beth had felt like she was losing her children. Now, they really may be lost to her forever.

Adam and Beth did not want their two oldest to go on the citywide band trip to Laredo, TX for several reasons but had no say in the matter. It was so far away from Wichita, KS and neither of them was allowed to go as sponsors. Something in their medical records was flagged by MRD, or more affectionately known as Mr D, a new branch of the IRS. MRD stood for Medical Records Dept. The universal healthcare plan placed all medical records under the watchful eye of the IRS who in turn had to set up a new department to keep track of everyone’s records. Another useless layer of bureaucracy according to Adam but in control regardless of what most people thought about it. Finding out what caused their records to be flagged resulting in their being turned down to travel with the youth was like trying to access the country’s most top-secret information. Both Adam and Beth were in great physical shape for their age according to the physician on duty who completed their required annual physicals so their denial to go as sponsors was troubling.

Conner, their oldest son, and their daughter Dawn were excited at first for the opportunity to travel with eighty-eight other band students from area schools. But as the practices progressed and their departure date drew near, they both seemed anxious about the trip. Neither would say why they were feeling the way they were. Beth feared her kids were instructed by school officials not to voice their negative individual opinions about the band trip to their families. Their answers about the trip seemed rehearsed and verbatim to the answers of the other sibling.

Just then, Adam stumbled out the patio door with two steaming cups of coffee.

“Good morning, Beautiful,” Adam’s usual morning greeting to her, “feels like it’s going to be a sticky, miserable day in the neighborhood.”

Beth knew Adam was trying to make her feel better about the situation with the kids, but he honestly wasn’t helping at all! “Morning” she responded while accepting her cup of coffee. Maybe it would help alleviate some of her worries if she were more awake and could think more rationally about the situation.

“Have you heard anything else from Principal Davis?” Adam asked.

“No. None of the other parents with kids on the trip that we know have heard anything else either. The news on T.V. only said that the U.S. Mexican border was officially closed. Davis didn’t know if they were state side or still in Mexico when it happened. He claims he hasn’t heard anything from any of our sponsors or the promoters of the trip. The phone lines are jammed and keep going dead. I can’t get a hold of any of the numbers we were given in case of an emergency. Even Conner’s cell phone doesn’t seem to be working!” Beth stopped her rant to stop her tears. She needed to stay rational for the sake of her kids.

Adam reached over and started rubbing Beth’s neck. “I know you’re frustrated and scared Beth. So am I! But we must deal with the now and not the what ifs. We must stay focused and clear headed to help our kids when they call. They are good kids. They’re smart. They’re survivors. They will come home!”

Adam always found the positive angle in every situation. He was the optimistic one. Without the training he received at USMC, he claims he would not have survived the long days he spent deployed to the war zones in the Middle East. That time in his life changed him. He was calm in the face of adversity and danger. He had a peace about him that Beth didn’t quite understand but was trying to. Beth had to remind herself, if he could make it through that situation, she could manage this. After all, the kids were on the same continent, less than 900 miles away with a group of good students and sponsors. Why haven’t they been in touch with anyone at the school? What was our government doing to help them? Why was the border closed? Oh Beth, shut off your brain for a few minutes and drink your coffee! She took a long sip of her coffee and tried to focus on the sunrise that was painting a beautiful morning sky.

She knew Adam was right. However, fear can do paralyzing things to your mind and body. Beth had to keep fighting it, to stay strong for her kids!

According to the itinerary they had received when they had dropped off the kids, the first day was a travel day. First plane ride for both of her kids and she couldn’t watch their reactions. Another reason to be bitter about the whole situation! Oh well, no use crying over spilled milk Granny always said. Once in Laredo, the kids were settled into their hotel rooms and made the obligatory phone call home telling their families they were there safe. She thought it was so odd that Conner didn’t have any excitement in his voice. Before he hung up, he reminded Beth to pay attention to her ABC’s. What an odd thing to say! She knew he was trying to tell her something but hadn’t been able to figure it out. Their family motto was to always pay attention to your ABC’s. Kind of silly but it had to do with their names, Adam, Beth, Conner, Dawn, and their youngest son, Evan. A, B, C, D, E. Paying attention to your ABC’s meant you were to pay attention to the family. What were you trying to tell me Conner? She had reminded him to do the same and his response was “Always.” In a strange way, that gave her some comfort because she knew he was watching out for Dawn.

The next several days were filled with band rehearsals and getting to know the kids from the other schools from around the nation that were also participating in this event. They had a few small performances throughout the week leading up to the grand finale. Their big performance was two nights ago at the Laredo Civic Center. The kids were rewarded on the last day of their trip with an adventure across the border to do some sightseeing and souvenir shopping before heading home. The government-controlled school promoted the trip as a unifying exercise to ensure all schools in the nation were receiving the same education in the musical realm.

“Excellence in equality.” That was the new unified school motto. If all received the same education, all things being equal, then all could excel. Their logic didn’t quite ring true with Beth. She agreed with treating everyone equal because according to our original constitution, we were all created equal by our Creator. However, she also knew that people excelled in different areas according to their abilities. For instance, Conner was an avid outdoorsman and very athletic. He was most happy when he was camping or fishing. Dawn was their musical prodigy. She tolerated their family campouts. She was amazing to watch as she found “the music” as she liked to say, in everything.

*******

Conner and his buddy Aaron agreed that this cultural exchange experience was a waste of time. All the girls wanted to do was shop. How boring. It’s all souvenirs made in China for sale in the open market on the streets on Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. It looked and sounded just like Laredo, TX. So, he had resigned himself to playing a game of tracking his sister, Dawn, and her new friend from Michigan. Aaron agreed that her new friend didn’t have the best intentions for Dawn. He was about the same age as Conner and Aaron. Why would a seventeen-year-old want to hang out with a fourteen-year-old? Conner couldn’t think of any other reason except to take advantage of her. Conner wished his sister would just hang out with her friend Carly from home, but they were both pretty enamored with Tom, their new friend from Michigan, and had a huge argument over him earlier in the week.

They heard the commotion before they saw everyone running towards them. Aaron pulled Conner to safety in an open doorway just as the masses ran by in full panic mode.

“What’s going on?” screamed Conner, “Do you see my sister?”

“No but that jerk from Michigan scampered by looking totally scared to death. He was out of control; he knocked over two girls trying to get away.”

“Get away from what?” Conner asked. “Where’s Dawn?”

A familiar-looking boy running for his life fell in front of Conner and Aaron. They helped him up before he could get trampled by the next wave of people headed their way. “What’s going on?” they asked.

“I’m not sure. Some creepy looking guys with guns were threatening to open fire on us if we didn’t get back to our country! They shot at a group of girls!” The boy was so scared he broke loose from Conner’s grasp and started running again.

“Dawn!” Conner started running against the crowd. He had to find his sister! Why had he let her get so far ahead of him? Just as he reached the corner, Carly and Dawn were flying around it at a pace so fast he swore their feet weren’t touching the ground!

Dawn was screaming for everyone to run. He grabbed her but she just fought him off and screamed louder. Aaron caught up with her and knocked her through the entrance they had taken refuge in just moments ago. Conner grabbed Carly as they followed Aaron and Dawn to a brief protection from the seemingly never-ending throng of a terrified mob running for their lives. Just as they fell behind the nearest counter, a gunman ran by shooting randomly, laughing, and shouting for the “Gringos” to run for their lives. A peek around the end of the counter revealed the body of one of the students that had traveled with them from KS. What was her name? Her blank stare seemed to be yearning for Conner to remember her so that her parents would know. He couldn’t think! Shock and horror were sinking into the dire situation they were in. Dawn started to get up and run again but was stopped dead in her tracks at the gruesome sight in the doorway. She screamed again! Conner pulled her down and covered her mouth so that the gunmen wouldn’t hear her and come looking for them. He hugged her tight as she sobbed uncontrollably. “That’s Sally!” she moaned.

Slowly, after what seemed like an eternity, it grew quiet on the street with only an occasional gun fire. What do we do now wondered Conner? Should they have kept running with the crowd? How do we make it to the border now? It had to be at least eight to ten blocks away. Might as well be 100 miles, he thought. What about everyone else in their group? Were others hurt or killed like Sally? Just then the curtain hanging over a doorway at the back of the store shifted. They weren’t alone in the store! Aaron saw it also and started to circle around for a better position to get a jump on whoever was going to come through that doorway.

*******

The gym was overflowing with a swarm of media outlets and the families of the students caught up in what was turning into an international incident. Security was tight. Rumors were flying about a high-ranking politician that was going to address the crowd. Adam and Beth had already turned down a dozen requests for an interview. Beth didn’t trust the media. They seemed to have an unspoken agenda they were promoting, and it didn’t have the country, let alone her children’s best interest at heart. This was to be the first official briefing for them but had seen other briefings in the news conferences on T.V. in other towns where students were from. They all seemed to be smartly choreographed with no real information. Adam thought it was all being downplayed but couldn’t figure out why. It reminded him of several incidents that he witnessed in Iraq but to this day would not speak of. All they wanted was their kids’ home, safe and sound.

Adam and Beth were escorted towards the front by the stage to an area reserved for family. Principal Davis gave them an awkward glance of recognition but quickly turned his attention to the mayor and the man in the dark suit that seemed to be in charge of setting the stage for the upcoming press conference.

Beth took her seat next to a woman who looked like she hadn’t stopped crying since the news broke.

“How are you holding up?” Beth politely asked. She already knew the answer.

The woman just stared at the floor in front of them, wringing an old handkerchief into knots, and then unfolding it. Only to do again. Beth hadn’t seen an old “hankie” as Granny called them in a long time. She reached out to put her arm around the woman and silently share in her grief.

She seemed startled at the touch of Beth’s arm. “Have you seen my Sally?” she asked.

“No, I haven’t. I’m sure she’s OK with the other kids in the group.” Beth tried to sound as reassuring as she could, fearing she failed miserably.

“I don’t think so. One of the kids got a phone call out to his parents when it started. They were running for their lives he said. He saw my Sally fall, then his phone went dead!”

This was very unsettling news to Beth. She hadn’t heard of anyone that had had any contact with their children since the incident. “Did the boy say anything about any of the others?”

“He said an older boy helped him up, so he didn’t get trampled. He was looking for his sister.”

Mayor Browning was starting his opening remarks, but Beth couldn’t focus! She sat stunned as the news she had just heard sank in. Was it Conner? Did he find Dawn? Were they OK?

“This is such a trying time for our community and our country. Please be patient as our government officials work out the details for safe passage for our children. I’m sure they will get them home safely.” The mayor explained.

Beth wanted to scream!

“So, please give a warm welcome to Sidney Jones of the U.S. State Dept.” Mayor Browning concluded his introduction. Red flag warnings were going off in Adam’s head. Why was the State Dept involved in a high school band trip? He squelched memories that he wished he didn’t have from the war. Things were sounding eerily familiar except now his family was involved.

“Good morning, everyone. As Mayor Browning said, I’m the court appointed attorney from the U.S State Department assigned to this case. We are continuing our investigation into this incident, and I assure you, we will get to the bottom of this and get your innocent children home.”

Adam’s mind was reeling! What did he just say? Did he just accuse some of our kids of being a part of this illegal smuggling scheme? Shouldn’t all the kids be innocent? Who determines their innocence or guilt?

The attorney continued. “This is what we know as of this morning. The Mexican police were able to infiltrate a large smuggling operation. This faction would allegedly steal valuable merchandise and then smuggle it and illicit drugs that were hidden in the merchandise into the United States. They would target unsuspecting American tourists to carry the merchandise across the border. It is apparent that some of the children from your schools here in the Wichita area were used in this scheme.” Loud objections erupted in the gymnasium at the possible accusations being leveled at their children. Adam was furious! They’re kids were targeted and used to smuggle drugs unbeknownst to them. And they were the possible guilty ones in this?

Jones continued to speak louder to be heard above the murmurings. “That is why we agreed to fully cooperate with the Mexican government and close our border. This was done to keep the perpetrators in Mexico so they could be brought to justice in the country they have allegedly committed their crimes. Mexico has in custody all the students and the sponsors on this excursion except for four students from the Wichita area. Everyone is cooperating fully with the Mexican authorities, and we believe they will soon be released to American officials. They will be transported to an undisclosed facility in the United States where they will be given the opportunity to call home. They will be afforded comfortable housing and food. Unfortunately, as per our agreement with Mexico, they will not be allowed visitors or the opportunity to come home until all the perpetrators have been arrested and brought to justice. This is for their safety. These gangsters will stop at nothing to make sure all witnesses to their crimes are silenced, permanently.” Sidney hated his job right now. This crowd was angry and soon would go ballistic over the next news that he had to share.

“Your children were innocent spectators who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Unfortunately, one child was caught in the crossfire. Her body will be sent home after an autopsy is performed to determine the exact cause of death.” For a brief second, you could have heard a pin drop. Then an outburst from angry, scared parents filled the room. Everyone in the press was scampering to get the first question asked and answered.

Mayor Browning and several security personnel stepped to the edge of the stage as if to calm the crowd. Sidney Jones continued, “We will release the student’s name once her family has been notified. Listen people, I know you’re scared and you’re very worried about your kids. We are doing everything in our power to get them home safely to you. Once all your children are in the protection of our government and the smuggling ring and drug lords involved are incarcerated, you will get your children home safe and sound.”

This was the most news released to date by the government about the unfolding situation their kids were caught up in. It still didn’t ring true to Adam. Why now were both governments cooperating and cracking down on smuggling rings and drug lords? The black market of stolen goods and drugs had kept the American economy from going over the cliff into a total collapse for several years now.

The border with Mexico had been like a sieve with illegal immigrants crossing daily. Why was the border closed now? Is this our new reality? Adam bellowed his question so loud that it momentarily silenced the crowd. It was the question they all wanted answered.” When will we get our kids home?”

Chapter Four

“Clickity clack, look at Jack. Clickity clack, don’t look back!” chanted Dawn as Carly snickered.

“Clickity clack, look at that. Clickity clack, don’t look back!” Dawn was hitting her sing song stride now. “Clickity clack, go to the rack. Clickity clack, don’t look back!”

For a brief moment, Conner thought he was back at home and Dawn was being her usual annoying self not letting him sleep. But why was he hearing a clickity clack? What new instrument was she using now? Why was the room rocking back and forth? “Shut up Dawn!”

“Clickity clack, Conner’s back. Clickity clack, don’t look back!” They all laughed this time as Conner opened his eyes to see them all staring at him.

“Where are we?” As soon as he asked reality flooded back and he knew. They were moving again. That’s good he thought. He lifted himself up to look out through the slats of the freight car. The countryside was flying by. How long had he slept?

“Morning, sleeping beauty! Or should I say afternoon?” Dawn poked him in the belly, just like she did at home to irritate him. “We’re rolling now! Rollin’ Rollin’ Rollin’ Clickity clack, don’t look back!”

“Juan, fill me in on what’s happening since my sister can’t seem to form an intelligible sentence.”

As Conner sat up, Juan handed him a piece of jerky and a bottle of water. Whoever left the food supplies knew what to pack for quick energy on a hard journey. “I don’t know how much I can tell you. I’m ashamed to say I fell asleep too. I woke up about an hour ago to your sister’s annoying song. I can tell you we’re on a track that’s running parallel to I-35 that goes all the way to San Antonio.”

“That interstate goes all the way to Wichita! We could ride this all the way home if it keeps following the interstate!” said Aaron. “I woke up for a bit while we were still parked. You were both snoozing pretty good. There were border agents everywhere, searching all the cars looking for something or someone! I thought we were busted for sure. But when they were still a couple cars away from us, there was a big commotion on the other side of the yard. It sounded like a bomb went off! Naturally, they all took off running. Then, probably five to ten minutes later, we started to move. I tried to stay awake but between the motion of the train and being so tired, I don’t think I made it out of Laredo before I was asleep again.”

“Clickity clack, don’t look back! We’re going home Jack!” Dawn sang her new song over and over again. She always found the music.

“I don’t want to be pessimistic because right now, this train ride is a very good thing. But I don’t think we’ll be able to ride it all the way home. They’re specifically looking for us, remember? They think we’ve been exposed to this new disease and if we’re spotted, they will quarantine us immediately. None of us are sick or acting sick so I think it’s a bogus story. Just in case though, we all must promise if any of us start feeling bad, we must let the rest know. Deal?”

Nothing like my brother to cast a huge black cloud over our situation thought Dawn. Why can’t he just enjoy the moment like the rest of us?

“Come on guys! We’ve got to stick together and be open and honest with each other if we’re going to make it home. If they’re putting this story out in the media, not only will the cops be looking for us, but so will everyone else. We can’t trust anybody! We need more information about what’s happening. I’m not sure why but they don’t want us to make it home. Does anyone have any ideas about how we could get a message home or find out more information about what’s going on?”

Aaron was the first to speak up, “You’re right Conner. We stick together, no matter what. When we make it to San Antonio, we can look for a coffee house with free Wi-Fi. We can get what the media is saying and search the back rooms on the net for the true story of what’s happening. Maybe even get a message home.”

“I’m in.” Carly spoke up next. “I think we ought to try to change our appearance somehow.”

“Oh, I like that!” exclaimed Dawn. “I’ve always wanted to dye my hair, but Mom wouldn’t let me!”

“What do you say Juan? Are you in too?” Aaron asked.

“I just want to be sure that you all know that this is going to be a very hard trip. Everyone is looking for us. Everyone will fear us. Something bigger is going on here, bigger than we know. I can’t quite figure it out but I think the powers that be think we’re a huge threat to their plan so they will do anything to stop us, to silence us.”

“What are you talking about Juan?” Dawn feared his answer but knew the question had to be asked.

Juan looked at Conner wanting assurance to proceed or an exit strategy to stop the conversation. He got an assuring head nod, giving him permission to proceed.

*******

The President was livid! How could those kids have made it across the border? Where were they now? Somebody would pay for their inadequate job performance! If Frank had his way, it’d be Mexico’s ridiculous President. Frank was sure the Brotherhood would agree with him that Eduardo had messed up one too many times.

The “open” border arrangement with Mexico was going to have to change. It had served its purpose of slowing down the U.S. economy almost to the tipping point. The Brotherhood of Social Justice had enough new “voters” that would ensure their candidate’s election if they had to have another election before the coup is completed. The plan as of today is to suspend elections for a couple of years to establish the new government. The story of the bogus mutated TB virus coupled with the drug cartel smuggling operation being exposed should be enough to activate martial law which should be sufficient to suspend elections. Frank was guaranteed by the Brotherhood that he would be the last President of the old U.S. of A. and the first President of the new USA, the United Socialized Americas, encompassing North, Central, and South America as we know it.

The bigger problem was the terrorists from the Middle East coming across the border with their caliphate propaganda. There was an attack on the main train depot in Laredo that G.I.M. was taking credit for. G.I.M. stood for the Global Islamic Movement, the latest and greatest terrorist group. It really wasn’t a new group. They just liked to keep changing their name so that the dumbed down masses wouldn’t realize it was the same group, same ideology, and same goals – total worldwide domination. Their religious beliefs taught them that Allah wanted them to rule the world. Didn’t they understand that the plan of the Brotherhood would take care of them too? A utopian society with communism as the sole government worldwide would solve so many of the world’s problems. He was forming an idea to allow these fanatics a faux position in the new administration to pacify their ambitions. That really was what they wanted. Frank didn’t care because he knew there was no God or Allah or whatever they wanted to call it.

His immediate dilemma was to find those kids from Kansas and silence them for good. The last intelligence report said they were travelling with a kid from Mexico. His immediate family had been found and already eliminated. How many of the extended family was left was unknown. He had suspicions that a lot of them fled already. At least they were scattered, unable to plot and work to undermine the plan for a worldwide government. The official story was the family had been killed in cold blood by the drug cartels. He had to sufficiently scare the others into submission so that Mexico would come willingly into the new United Socialized Americas. If the Mexicans thought that the drug cartels were out of control and that the United States could provide peace and security, the formation of a unified government could be achieved quickly and efficiently. The people didn’t need to know that the drug cartels were working for the United States government as of three days ago when they negotiated a better deal than that fool Santos was offering them. Our ancestors were so stupid to give it back to them after the Mexican wars he thought. Once the countries were united, there won’t be a border issue. One more huge ugly problem that my legacy will show I solved President Zimmerman believed. The rest of Central America would follow Mexico’s lead. South America should fall quickly also. Their economies were in such a depression, that they would do anything the Brotherhood told them to just to survive.

Life is good thought Frank. I love it when a plan comes together! He grinned at his own wittiness and grew prouder of what he was accomplishing and how history would show him to be the greatest world leader ever to live.

******

Juan wasn’t sure where or how to start his explanation of what he thought was happening. He started by reminding them of how great their country, America, used to be. It had been the light of the world. Everyone wanted to come there because of their freedoms, their God-given freedoms. Their inalienable rights. He also explained how the opportunities these freedoms afforded people to achieve their personal dreams. The American Dream was what drew people from all over the world to their amazing country. Their founding Forefathers were brilliant! They set up a government with restrictions on their leadership, not the people.

Time, arrogance, and greed had eroded the founding Forefathers true vision of a government that was to be governed by the people, for the people. Men who probably started out with good intentions let the power of a big government corrupt their thinking and thus their actions had taken a very long time to erode the freedoms given to the American people in their constitution. The free republic of the United States of America had been changed from the inside to a socialist society. The movement to socialism sold itself as a society that would have its focus be for the good of the people. At its core, it drew attention to the social problems caused by capitalism and strived to negate these issues by making everything fair for everybody. Fairness meant no one would be allowed to exceed anybody else’s achievements. Instead of focusing on everyone striving to achieve their best which in turn drove others to achieve higher goals, it concentrated on making sure all were at the same level. This caused no one to try their best. Excellence in equality.

“That’s our school’s motto!” Aaron pointed out.

“That’s right,” Conner agreed. He was glad Juan was taking his time to give a history lesson as to why they were where they were. That would make the rest easier to understand.

“My Papa had discovered a plot being implemented by our governments to work together using the drug cartels as their fall guy. The goal is to drive our countries to unite under a banner of communism.”

“What? No way?” Dawn objected to this idea

“It’s true Dawn,” Conner confirmed Juan’s statement. “Socialism is always just a steppingstone to the final goal of communism. But I also think it’s bigger than just Mexico and the U.S. When you look at Europe, Asia, and Russia, even the Middle East, they all seem to be merging into centralized regions. For communism to work, everyone must be a participant. If you’re trying to sell a utopian society that has everyone equal and everyone has a share in everything, then everyone must be in, regardless of what it costs. No personal property rights, no right to defend yourself, no freedom to speak your mind, and no freedom to your religion. It all must be the same for everyone. With countries merged into regional areas, it’d be easier for the leaders to control the masses.”

Juan could see the light bulbs going on in their minds. They were beginning to see the truth in what they were hearing. He could also see the fear beginning to set in.

“So, why are they after us? Why was our group attacked in Mexico?” Carly asked the question they were all beginning to wonder about.

“Because I believe they think that grieving families are easier to manipulate and control than ones who still have hope in their children.”

“Wow, that’s harsh Juan!” Aaron said.

“Think about it, guys. Our Dad is head of security for all the plane manufacturers in Wichita. He oversees the logistics and security needs of all the plants Plus, he’s a former Marine. He received a Purple Heart and Congressional Medal of Honor for something that he refuses to talk about. He’s a trained warrior. He knows how to fight. He knows how to train people to fight. He knows how to lead people into battle. And most importantly, he knows how to win those battles. I know he senses some of this too because I’ve seen it in his face. Juan must talk to Dad. But, if two of his kids are gone, they’re banking on the expectation that his desire to fight will be broken. He won’t fight. He’ll do everything to protect our younger brother Evan by being submissive to their rule.” Conner was on a roll now. “Aaron, your Dad is the President and CEO of the largest bank in the Midwest. They need to control the finances at every level if this plan of theirs is going to work. Carly, I just realized I don’t know what your parents do.”

“My Dad works with the electric company in Wichita and Mom is a nurse.”

“Of course! They need to have control of the utilities for their plan to work. If you’re good workers, you have power, life is good. If you’re not, life can be rough.”

The train was beginning to slow down. “I think we need to get off the train before it gets into the heart of San Antonio. They’ll be looking for us. I like Carly’s idea to change our looks a bit. We also need to get information about just how serious this disease thing is and if we need to be concerned about getting sick.”

Dawn spoke up, “I want to talk to Mom.”

“I agree Dawn. We must let our parents know we’re OK. But we must be careful. They’re probably watching our parents.”

Looking out of the freight car they could see they were probably going to be stopping soon. Juan opened the door to look out. A small town was on the horizon. There was a field of tall corn coming up. It would be perfect to hide in if the train slowed enough for them to jump without getting hurt. “How’s your knee Dawn?” he had almost forgotten she had been hurt.

“Oh, it’s fine. I’ve scraped my knees worse when I was a kid learning to ride my bike!”

“That’s my girl! We’re tough just like our Dad. Oorah!”

“Oorah!” Dawn and the rest echoed Conner’s bellow of the Marine’s call for action.

The field was upon them, and the train had slowed significantly. Juan jumped first and rolled as he hit. He hoped the others did the same. They couldn’t afford anyone getting seriously hurt. Carly jumped next doing a barrel roll and came up running towards Juan hiding in the field. The boys and Dawn made their exits with no incidents either. They took off at a fast pace into the field.

They could hear a car before they saw it. A road must be up ahead as they neared the far edge of the field. Conner went ahead while the others rested a bit. There wasn’t much traffic on the road which he liked. The road sign said Devine, TX. Two miles. He could see Interstate 35 to the right of them. Another corn field was on the other side of the road that would give them cover as they got closer to the town. He signaled for the others to join him, and they quickly crossed the road to the safety of the next field.

They made it to the edge of the town quickly. It was your typical small country town. Everything shut down at sundown. The high school was on the edge of town. Aaron thought that would be a good place to try and spend the night. Plus, they would have internet access so they could possibly find out more about what was happening with their friends in the quarantined camp and their families back home. Carly thought they should have some food in their kitchen too so that would be good since they were all starving. They waited about an hour for the sun to start setting to make their way to the school building. All the doors seemed to be locked but one classroom on the backside had a window that had been left open. Dawn was small enough to squeeze through it. She quickly let the others in.

They crouched together at the end of the hall and listened. The school was eerily quiet. Guess that’s a good thing Conner thought.

“OK, girls, you’re in charge of finding food. Don’t turn on any lights. We need something to eat now, and we need food and water that we can take with us. Look for some back packs or book bags that we can use to carry it in. Juan, go with the girls but I also want you to scope out the school. Look for anything you think will be useful and that we can easily carry with us. Knives, rope, flashlights, matches, tarp or blankets, maps or a compass, cell phones or radios, anything. Aaron and I are going to find their computer lab. We’ll get online and see what’s really going on.”

“Does anyone know what day it is?” asked Carly.

“It’s Friday, I think why?” responded Juan.

“Well, I sure wouldn’t want to be here in the morning if it’s a school day!”

“Good point Carly!” Conner loved how they were all starting to think strategically. The little things like school being in session or not could be a huge deal for them. “Let’s meet back here in thirty minutes. Everyone look for a school calendar, so we’ll know if anything is happening tomorrow here.”

As they headed down the hall, the third classroom on the left was the computer lab. Aaron and Conner entered as the others kept going. The junction at the end of the hall showed another long hallway leading to their right with what looked like more classrooms. The left hallway opened into a huge common area with what looked like the main entrance to the school and the administrative offices. Juan thought there might be a nurse’s office that would have some good items for them to grab. Past the common area was another hallway that had doors further apart leading them to think it was possibly the cafeteria and or gym. They passed the offices and opened the first set of double doors. It was the cafeteria and it looked like the kitchen was on the far end.

“Girls, go on ahead to the kitchen. I’m going to see if I can find anything in the office area. I’ll catch up with you in ten minutes.”

With their backs to the windows, Aaron, and Conner both turned on a computer. Conner would research news stories to see if he could figure out what the public was being told. His main goal was to find out anything about them, the disease, the others in their group, and most important, their families. Aaron, who was savvier on the web, would look for the real story in the back rooms on the web. How were the events of the day really unfolding? The faint blue illumination from the screens sent a dull glow out the windows not detected by the boys.

Carly was stuffing an ice cream bar in her mouth. “Oh man, Dawn, this is so good!”

“I know! Mine is delicious too!”

As they ate, they accumulated food supplies on the counter. Bottles of water and juice, fruits, nuts, protein bars, and small individual boxes of cereal were piling up. “There are chicken nuggets in the freezer, do you think your brother would mind if we cooked them in the microwave? It would be so good to have something hot to eat tonight.”

“I agree! Let’s do it!”

They heated up more than enough for all of them and started looking for a way to carry their food supplies. Again, the dull glow from the microwave exposed that someone was in the school.

Juan was having trouble with the offices being locked. He had found the nurse’s station and was trying to pick the lock. He wasn’t very good at it. The Administrative Assistant’s desk revealed a set of keys for all the offices in the bottom drawer. Juan was able to unlock any door he wanted. Inside the nurse’s station by the door, he found a First Aid Kit filled with band aids, splints, over the counter Tylenol and ibuprofen, ice packs, burn treatment ointments, disinfectants, and instructions for CPR and other small injuries. Definitely taking this, he thought. As he continued searching the offices, he also found two flashlights, a set of walkie-talkie radios with extra batteries, some kid’s confiscated cell phone, cigarette lighters, and the school newspaper with the school calendar printed on the back page. Before he left, he grabbed a couple of blankets from the nurse’s station and a backpack for all his goodies. He was careful to relock everything to not make it very evident that anyone had been in the offices. As he was putting the keys back, he noticed a fat envelope shoved to the back of the drawer. It was filled with cash! Bonus he smiled at himself for his good fortune. Hopefully everyone else was having the same luck that he was.

As he left the offices, he saw the girls with their food packs. They were trying each locker as they passed them. Most were locked but a few were open. They had been able to collect about $30.00 in cash, another cell phone, and an I-pad.

“Good thinking girls!” He smelled the chicken nuggets and realized he was starving. He started eating his share as they continued searching the lockers.

Entering the computer lab was a happy reunion. They all excitedly shared their goodies and explained how each treasure could be beneficial. The chicken nuggets didn’t last long, and the ice cream bars were gone in an instant. Their moods had relaxed to the point that if you didn’t know what was going on, you would think this group was just a bunch of kids hanging out at school, having a good time.

With full bellies Conner and Aaron started sharing the news they had been able to find. Conner shared first. “Well, the good news is the tensions between Mexico and the US seem to be easing a bit. The disease that they say everyone was exposed to is an advanced strain of tuberculosis that is drug resistant to current treatments of TB and much more deadly. It kills within one to two weeks from exposure. They’re working on a new vaccine and cure. Also, they’re not sure they have it contained at the detention center where they took the rest of our group.”

“Wow, I don’t remember anyone being sick around us, do you guys?” Carly asked. “Juan, do you know anything about this strain of TB?”

“I’d heard rumors about it, but my family and I never saw anyone that we thought was sick or might have it.”

Conner continued, “The bad news is all but thirteen people from our group at the detention center have died from it.”

This news stunned them all into silence for a few moments. Dawn was the first to speak. “Our friends, all but gone? What are the chances of those thirteen who are left? How do we know we’re not infected and that we’re going to die too?” She started to cry. Carly was already crying. Even the boys were fighting tears.”

“Think about it, guys. No one was sick. Then mass chaos as we were chased from the streets. After they’re all taken to a safe place, they all get sick? Something’s not right with that story.”

“You’re right Conner.” Aaron spoke up. “I’ve found several stories suggesting some kind of conspiracy theory. If the kids aren’t conforming to the teachings of the new federalized school curriculum, they are being eliminated. In Alabama for example, the schools in the Huntsville area had over 800 kids die because they ate school lunches that were tainted with salmonella. What the story didn’t talk about was the surge in civil disobedience among the kids because of the rewriting of American history.”

“Oh man! Do you think this food is safe to eat? After all, it did come out of their cafeteria?” Carly asked the question they were all thinking.

“Don’t panic guys.” Aaron was trying to calm their fears. “I haven’t found any such stories linking to any TX schools. But we must be careful. For some reason all kids, including us are being targeted.”

“OK, so that’s what’s going on with this illness story. And as I said the border issues seem to be calming down. The next story that I found interesting was about the explosion Aaron heard at the Laredo train depot. It seems there’s a new terrorist group calling themselves GIM. That’s the new Global Islamic Movement. It’s not a new group. Same bad guys, different name. They apparently blew up some refrigerated freight cars. The cars were filled with food. Mostly beef and pork products. I think they tapped into the Alabama story and they’re trying to create a food shortage. That could generate mass chaos and anarchy as people fight for what little food is left.”

“Any news from home?”

“There were some stories about the parents grieving for their children. I must admit, I was surprised there wasn’t much more about them. And what’s even stranger, we are now dead according to the headlines that will break in the morning!”

“Wow, I guess out of sight, out of mind.” Dawn quipped. We must get a hold of our parents. They will go crazy!” With a puzzled look Dawn then asked, “What do you mean tomorrows headlines will report we’re dead?” She glanced out the window to make sure no one was there.

“Why would they put the story out that we’re dead?” Carly wondered out loud.

“They control the media. They control the story and the timing of it.” Conner speculated.

“Well, if we’re dead, we can’t talk. We can’t tell them that this TB outbreak is phony. We can’t tell them that the drug cartel is working for the government. We can’t warn people about the silent coup that’s in the works to move us into a government that rules via communism. We can’t expose their lies if we’re dead.” Juan explained. “If the story is that we’re dead, then they will kill us on sight, no questions asked.”

“I agree. Any ideas Aaron as to how we can get in touch without drawing too much attention to ourselves? Or putting our families in danger?”

“Well, there are some chat rooms that are creepy but there are some that although on the surface seem absurd, they might be a safe area to send coded messages. The question is, will our parents see it. And if they do, will they understand it?

“Let’s try. Put up a post that says, ‘paying attention to your ABC’s is always a good thing’. If Mom and Dad see it, they’ll know it’s us. They’ll at least know we’re still alive.” Conner looked at Dawn and winked giving her a reassuring smile

“What about a message to my parents?” asked Carly. “Add to it ABC’s are electrifying! And for Aaron, say ‘bank withdrawals are moving quickly’.”

“I like it!” Dawn said. That is cryptic enough to sound stupid, but our parents should see the connection. Juan, what about your family?”

“End the message with ‘Astalavista, Baby’; they’ll know it’s me.”

*******

Charlie was enjoying his nightly routine on his front porch. The katydids were singing already with a few crickets joining in. As the sun went down, the lightning bugs were showing themselves. He loved this time of day. It always transported him back to a simpler time. A time when America was free and strong, the absolute best place to live this side of heaven his Daddy always said. He was thankful his Dad didn’t live to see how far the country had fallen. He feared for his grandkids. What kind of future did they have living under an oppressive communistic government that was sure to come if it wasn’t stopped?

Charlie had lived a full life, he felt he had nothing to lose so he would do anything to help restore a country that would give his grandkids a chance to experience and achieve their own American Dream. Being delegated as the school janitor was supposed to be a punishment from the local authorities. In their minds, he had been too vocal from his pulpit about the issues confronting their nation. His freedom of speech had crossed over to the dark side according to the papers. That article always made him chuckle because it made him think of the movie “Star Wars”. The writer must have been a huge fan of Luke Skywalker! The town was following the country’s lead by enforcing the freedom from religion clause of the Bill of Rights and shut down his church. What he tried to explain was the right explained in the constitution was the freedom of religion, not the freedom from it. Although he was shunned in town, he had to contribute to the good of the community if he wanted to be included in the allocation of food and utilities. He was still allowed to live in his home that he had paid off twenty years ago according to his mortgage papers. However, he technically didn’t own it anymore. It belonged to the community. It always amazed him that for the rejection he faced around town in public, a lot of town’s people secretly told him they were glad he was the school janitor. They asked him to keep an eye on their kids. They always asked him to pray for them, their kids, their town, and especially the country.

He saw his lowly position as the janitor as a Godsend. It gave him an opportunity to talk with the kids. If this country was to be saved, it would start with the kids he thought. He was sure that was why kids were targeted so heavily with propaganda in the classroom.

“Martha! I think someone is in the school!” Charlie could see the back of the school from his front porch. He wasn’t sure at first if he saw a light in one of the classrooms. But then he noticed something in the kitchen. It soon went out. As it got darker, the glow from the classroom got brighter. As Martha came out to look, it went out.

“I don’t see anything Charlie.”

After Life as They Want It – Part Two

Chapter One

Watching the sunrise was Granny’s favorite time of day. Sitting on her front porch sipping her coffee, she could almost forget the horrific events over the last several months that put the nation in this new reality of living in a dictatorship instead of a free republic. There was so much to do with all the added mouths to feed that had landed on her farm, but she loved every minute of it. Well, except for the reason they were all here. Things were spiraling out of control. It seemed like everything was in hyper-drive ever since the kids made it home. Marshal law had been declared because of all the mysterious attacks throughout the nation. News reports of these incidents were sporadic and seemed canned. They didn’t match up with what Adam was seeing on the dark web. For instance, the news coverage of Chicago was how wonderful everything was going for President Zimmerman’s visit to dedicate a memorial to the band groups that were lost to a deadly outbreak of a new strain of tuberculosis. But Adam knew of clashes that were dragging the city down into chaos and anarchy.

The coup that took down America seemed to be successful because it was advertised to prevent the spread of the rare disease that supposedly killed all the kids on that ill-fated band trip and to stop a second “Great Depression.” The MRD (Medical Records Dept) fondly referred to as Mr. D, kept a tight lid on any information about the illness, but the economy was so fragile and the lack of any clarification of what was happening, the country still slipped into a depression dragging the entire world down with it. Fortunately, this depression seemed to be short lived since the world governments began working together as one entity. Living through the depression in the 1930’s gave Granny insight that was rare but valuable. She knew that the world economy was still very fragile. Although everyone was required to work, families still couldn’t make enough money to support themselves on the universal income given for their job. Between the “free” healthcare and “free” education for all, it was obvious to many that the economy couldn’t recover fully and could quite possibly collapse again.

As Granny thought about all that needed to be done today, she marveled at how much had already been accomplished. The kids’ trip gave them numerous ideas on how to improve the homestead so that they could survive whatever the new USA had in store for them. Granny hated that they kept the USA acronym. The new United Socialist America was nothing like the old United States of America. It amazed her how many people didn’t seem to understand the massive changes that had occurred to their country. Conner, her oldest grandson, seemed to think a lot of people did understand what had happened and were just as upset as Granny. He thought everyone was too busy just trying to survive.

The boys had converted the old silage pit into a hidden shelter. It doubled as a place for them to hide if authorities came around looking for any information on the kids. It also served as a new stop on the Underground Railroad that had helped bring the kids home. Carly and Dawn were experts at finding items that didn’t seem like much but were very useful in the new shelter. Their bartering skills were excellent, which helped them to stock up on items to help their guests as they passed through.

“Morning Mom,” Adam said as he joined her on the porch. “Need a refill?”

“Thanks Adam. Absolutely!” As he went to get her another cup, she marveled at how peaceful early morning could seem before reality set in. It was a blessing to have her son and his family here. She didn’t think she’d survive if they weren’t with her.

“Here you go Mom.” After handing her the coffee, he settled on the porch swing next to her before asking the same question he asked her every morning. She knew he was the one in control but played along with his attempt at civility. It may be her farm, but he was the one in charge.

“What’s on the agenda for today, Mom?” He knew better than her what was on the agenda. She knew that. He knew that she knew that. His attempt to keep the resemblance of normality helped her stay strong for the kids and for their temporary guests. She loved him for that!

*******

Frank Zimmerman may be the acting President of the new USA, but he wasn’t in charge. He knew he should be thankful for what the Brotherhood of Social Justice had given him, but he felt belittled at these meetings. They seemed to blame him for all the accidents happening all over the country. How could he have known that a train derailment would happen on the outskirts of Chicago? Or the port of Los Angeles catching fire? Or the oil refinery in Houston shutting down due to a massive cyber-attack? Now this incident, the Hoover Dam on the verge of collapse! He knew these attacks were somehow connected but couldn’t figure it out. The Brotherhood seemed to blame him. Their smugness was wearisome. He wondered if somehow, they weren’t behind these incidents. Are they setting me up to be their fall guy, he wondered? Or is the resistance growing and they’re worried about it also?

“How do you explain this latest assault on the new USA Frank?”

“I have a crew in route to inspect the dam to ensure it doesn’t collapse. And I…”

“That’s not what we asked Frank!” The Supreme Leader shouted. “Why do these things keep happening? Our confidence in you is fading, fast!”

“Sir, my intelligence team is close to determining the source of these events. We’re following up on several leads that point to the kids that escaped from the band trip several months ago. They aren’t working alone though. A network seems to have sprouted up across the nation. It seems that the old USA isn’t as dead as we thought.”

“What are you doing to curtail this rebellion?” Edward Santos, the President of the former country of Mexico asked.

Frank couldn’t believe he had been elevated to the inner circle of the Brotherhood. After all, it was his fault that those kids escaped in Mexico and that all the other kids had to be murdered to cover up his failures.

“My team is searching the internet and have found several promising leads. I believe they had help from a Mexican kid. His family was very helpful before they had an untimely accident. He went missing about the same time as the other kids.”

“Are you saying they’re all still alive?” Edward asked. “I thought they had been eliminated!”

“It’s doubtful they’re alive, but possible. We’re watching their families closely. If they’re still alive, we’ll catch them when they try to contact their families.”

*******

The attack at the Hoover Dam went flawlessly. Adam was hopeful the dam would hold. The goal wasn’t to destroy it but to tie up assets from the Brotherhood so that others could move freely to their destinations. It also showed the strengths and weaknesses of the Brotherhood so that plans could be made to possibly defeat them some day. Aaron was his lead computer and internet whiz and had overseen the logistics on the Hoover job. Sometimes, it was hard to remember he was just a sixteen-year-old kid. Adam could tell he was getting restless about his dad and brother in Oklahoma. The messages coming from them were sporadic, which told Adam that they were under heavy surveillance. He was sure they were being watched also but so far, they had managed to keep the kids and their temporary guests hidden.

“Have you heard anything from your dad or brother lately?” Adam knew the answer, but he wanted to get Aaron talking. He needed to keep him focused on their mission but also knew he had to let Aaron vent about his family. That was easier said than done. Men can get lost in their thoughts of family and home when on the battlefield.

“No. I keep checking but I’m still not seeing any new posts. I know they’re being careful to protect me, but I really miss them.” Aaron fought back the emotions he felt towards not being with them.

“You’re right, they want to keep you safe. But I have a feeling they’re trying to keep themselves safe also. I’ve noticed extra traffic around town lately. I think the Brotherhood is looking for you guys. The most logical place to look would be family. If they’re watching us, they’re watching your family too.”

“I know but I wish they’d send a new message, so I’d know they’re okay.”

Adam changed the subject to keep Aaron focused. “How’s things holding at the Hoover Dam?”

“Good.” Aaron switched screens so he could show Adam what was going on there. “All the indicators are showing the dam is secure, it’s just offline as we wanted. It’ll take them a couple of days to sort through all the roadblocks before they can gain control of the dam again.”

As Adam studied the screen, Aaron ventured another request. “Sir, do you think it’ll be possible in the near future for me to go see my dad and brother?” He knew the dangers for him and his family, but he still wanted to go. He needed to go, he thought.

Adam knew he had to phrase what he said next to Aaron in such a way that would discourage him from trying to go on his own but not squash his drive to help them defeat this new enemy that had emerged as a dictatorship. “We’ll see Aaron. Maybe in a month or two.”

“You always say that!” He was so frustrated with the same answer Adam had given him since they made it to the farm. “You and I both know that ‘we’ll see’ means no!”

Adam suppressed a grin because that phrase often was the fallback response to his kids when he didn’t want to outright tell them no but knew that was his answer. He also knew he had to give Aaron something more to keep his hope alive for his family. “Look, I didn’t want to say anything yet until it was official. I’ve been working with my boss to arrange a business trip to Tulsa. We have a facility there that has been having security issues. If I can get that set up, I think I can swing by OSU and check on your Dad.”

Aaron jumped up and did a little jig! “When do we go?”

“Slow down Aaron! First, I need to get the trip authorized. I’ll have to stop by my office in Wichita also. I’m not sure you’ll be able to go. But I can get eyes on them for you and get some solid information from them.”

Dejected, Aaron sat back down. Then a sly smile lit up his face.

“Sir, maybe I could help speed up the necessity of your trip if there’s another security breach in Tulsa.”

“Good idea! I’ll get you the link to their security system. See what you can figure out and run it by me before you implement anything.”

Chapter Nine

The underground house in Nowata was crowded on any given day with transient groups passing through trying to get to loved ones in other areas of the country. Today it was extra congested with a higher number of evacuees, most were locals forced to get off the grid due to the new draconian regulations. Bubba was getting nervous that this much traffic would draw attention to their presence in such a small town like Nowata. He was happy to see Adam come through the front door like a regular customer. Maybe he would have some ideas on how to handle this new dilemma.

“Hello, my old friend!” Adam was glad to see everything seemed like it was on his last visit. “How about a cup of coffee?”

“Coming right up, and for you, I’ll only charge one arm and one leg!” Both men grinned at their inside joke from their time overseas in combat. Bubba served Adam his coffee and poured an extra one for himself. “Let’s go sit in the booth by the window so we can watch the world go by.” He led the way and slid in with his back against the wall so he could see both the front and back doors.

After Adam filled his friend in on his problem with the plant and the finances for its production, he turned his attention to Tom at the bank. “Has his boys had any contact with him lately?”

“Sarah, Duffy’s daughter, ran into him one day while she was running errands for her professor at school. She said he looked bad, acted almost like he was drugged. He didn’t even recognize her.”

“I thought the same thing when I met with him. Everyone in the bank acted like that. It was almost like a Twilight Zone episode. Remember those from when we were kids?”

“Ha! Yeah, I remember one with zombies everywhere!” Both men enjoyed the reprieve to a bit of old-fashioned humor and reminiscing about the good ole’ days. Bubba saw his daughter come in the back door and motioned for her to join them.

“I see you two have reverted back to your childhoods, again!” She winked at Adam and playfully punched her dad to make him move over for her to join them.

“How’s everything going Emma? Your dad keeping you busy?” Adam asked.

She kept her comments relevant to work as there were other customers in the restaurant. She had so much to talk to him about but knew the diner wasn’t the place. Adam could tell there was more and wanted to see Tom’s boys, Dan and Aaron. He hoped they were here and not out on a mission. “I started a garden out back, trying to raise fresh veggies for the diner so that Dad can actually offer people a decent meal when they come in.” She winked at her dad.

“I’d love to see it, Emma. I might have to get you in touch with my Mom to trade gardening tips. She has a garden at home that helps feed our growing boy Evan. That kid has a hollow leg I think!”

“Well, I need to get back to work so y’all go get some fresh air and check out the garden.” Adam followed Emma out the back as Bubba approached a new customer who had just arrived. No one seemed to notice the nervous glance he gave Adam as they walked by.

As Emma was showing Adam the garden, he was surprised to see the drone by the tree near the back fence. He motioned her hoping she’d pick up on it. Emma winked. “Look at the size of these zucchini.” She bent down to pull the large plant leaves aside to expose the fruit. Adam stooped beside her and was getting ready to say something about the prying eyes by the fence when she whispered, she had seen it also.

“My potatoes are over here.” She led him to the back of the garden, closer to the back fence. “They say you can’t tell secrets in a garden because the potatoes have eyes and the corn has ears.” Adam laughed at her joke and commented it was good they didn’t have any secrets to talk about. After a few minutes, the drone left. It looked like it was headed to the front of the building. “Did you notice it was an older drone?” Emma asked.

Come to think of it Emma, it looked like the ones we used in the middle east years ago.” Adam responded.

“They’re using their facility in Tennessee. It uses the older technology that you and dad saw overseas. Aaron is working on a plan to shut it down also. I’m sure he won’t have the capability that God had on the plant in Tulsa.” She winked as she explained. “But we’re hopeful God will bless our efforts and help Aaron figure it out.” Adam was impressed that these kids were on top of things going on and working to thwart the efforts of the enemy. What gave him the most hope was that they recognized God’s handy work in current events and were looking to Him for guidance.

As Bubba waited on the new customer, he picked up on his nervousness. Bubba cased the cafe. The others were regulars that he knew. He noticed another car pulling up across the street near the gas station. A black SUV. Strange, he thought. You don’t see those every day in Nowata. The man grabbed his arm. “Can you help me?” He was looking at the SUV also.

Adam wanted to see if Bubba had any ideas to help the kids with the drone’s issue. As they came in the back door, he noticed the man that Bubba was talking to. He looks familiar, Adam thought. Where do I know him from? Why is he so nervous? Approaching the table, the man looked up at him and said, “I thought that was you, Adam. Remember me?” Bubba waited for Adam to respond while keeping an eye on the black SUV across the street. Two men had exited the car. It looked like they were going to approach the diner. He turned to motion to Emma to leave.

Adam noticed the two men also and decided it best if he took a seat by this man. “You look familiar. For the life of me I can’t seem to place you though.”

“I performed your wedding ceremony, with Beth, in Wichita. I’m Reverend…”

“Reverend Moore! I remember you now!” The men approaching were almost to the door now. Adam noticed a guy lurking around their car. “Bubba, bring us a couple of hamburgers. You also might want to see if your other customers would like to leave now.”

“I’m way ahead of you Adam.” He turned to the others and advised them he’d put their lunch on their tabs as he pointed at the door. They hurried to get out the door before the others came in. It’s funny how quickly the Morality Goon Squad can empty a place. Bubba went to the kitchen and started fixing the burgers, trying to act normal.

“Reverend, why are these guys looking for you?” Adam enquired.

“Well, last week they started sending out pre-planned sermons. Just the idea of that didn’t set well with me. Then, I read it. I couldn’t give that blasphemous garbage of a sermon! So, I presented the gospel of Jesus Christ and His love for us, His gift of salvation and eternal life. I even gave an old-fashioned alter call! People are so hungry for the truth Adam. Forty people gave their lives to Christ that morning, We provided lunch from what was left in our food pantry, walked to the river and baptized those new believers. It was glorious Adam!” The preacher looked at the door as the two goons came in. Fear returning to his expression.

Adam was inspired by this man’s courage and faith. “Listen Reverend. You stay strong in your faith. The Lord will be with you through whatever happens next.” He glanced at the men as they sat at a table near the door. “I will do everything in my power to help you but not sure how or what I can do. We need men like you willing to share the gospel before it’s too late.”

Bubba brought out the burgers for Adam and the Reverend then approached the other table to take their order. The men became distracted with the menus. Adam noticed the guy loitering by their car, open the door, reach in and take something. Is that Dan? As he ran towards the gas station, he saw his brother Aaron open the door for him. The boys were gone before the guys had placed their lunch order.

The men finished their lunch and went to the register to pay. While they were there, Adam noticed Dan back at their car. Did he just put something in their car? What are those boys up to? He glanced at the Reverend as the men approached their table. Looking back outside, the boys were gone again.

“Sir, are you Tim Moore?” The taller guy seemed to be taking the lead. The other one positioned himself behind the preacher’s chair. Lord, please help us! Protect Reverend Moore. Adam’s quick silent prayer seemed to settle his nerves and steady the reverend’s composure.

“I’m Reverend Timothy Moore, from Independence, KS. But I’m pretty sure you knew that already. What can I do for you?” Adam admired the look of calm resolve on the reverend’s face as he addressed the man.

“And who are you?” The morality goon turned his attention to Adam.

“I’m Adam Schmidt from KS. I’m the head of security for the aircraft plant in Tulsa. I like to stop here on my way home. The food and coffee are great, wouldn’t you agree?” Adam returned the man’s intense stare waiting for him to respond.

“How do you know this man, Mr. Schmidt?” Duly noted, the man doesn’t like small talk. Adam surmised. I probably wouldn’t have a sense of decency either if I worked for such a corrupt organization.

Adam wanted to buy time to think before the inevitable occurred or if lucky thwart it from happening at all. “Funny story. You see, I stopped in as usual, and I noticed this guy….”

I don’t need the long version! Just tell me how you two know each other!” Losing his temper. Be careful Adam. These guys could get violent if you’re not careful. Adam wanted to see how far he could push them without anyone getting hurt.

“I’m getting to that sir!” Adam glanced at the other guy to see how he was reacting to the situation. He also noticed Bubba had moved to the far end of the bar where he was closer to his weapon and more protected if things went south. “As I was saying, we ran into each other earlier today by chance here. We haven’t seen each other in…” He paused to feign thinking about how long it’d been. “What’s it been Reverend? Twenty plus years?” The preacher grinned and nodded in agreement.

“At least twenty years Adam.” He turned his attention to the thug in charge. “I married Adam and his lovely bride twenty years ago.” Smiling, he continued. “It’s nice to see a marriage succeed in these uncertain times we’re living in. Wouldn’t you agree?”

“I’m certain of these times. We’re on the cusp of the transformation of our society into a peaceful existence where everyone is equal, not wanting for anything as everything will be provided by our government. In fact, it will be a global civilization for all human beings. To achieve this, we must adhere to the same principles. One can’t have different ideologies, different religious beliefs. Mr. Moore, you violated this idea when you preached a sermon that did not agree with the doctrine of the leading world religious leaders who have combined all philosophies into a one world religion that will lead everyone into a peaceful existence with their neighbor.” The man seemed proud of himself for stating what he thought was a sound argument to achieve global unity.

As Adam watched his old friend and pastor, he saw a resolve settle on his countenance.

“Sir, I must kindly disagree with you. We have all been created in the image of God who has made us as individuals, with different talents, different ambitions, different hopes and dreams. I do agree with you that we are all created equal, but we have been given inalienable rights by our Heavenly Father, not a man-made government, to pursue our hopes and dreams, to strive to become the individual He intended us to be.”

“But society has failed the public because people can’t be trusted to do what is good and right for themselves and for humanity. That’s why the government must do it for them.” Again, he looked proud of his argument offered to deter the preacher.

“Well, you are partially correct. People have failed. They fall short because of a sin nature. God created a perfect man and woman and put them in a perfect garden. But they were tempted by a serpent. That serpent was Satan himself. He led them into temptation. When they took their eyes off the Lord, they failed. They sinned. And because of that we, as their offspring, have a sin nature, just like them.” He paused to let what he was saying sink in. “But God provided a way for us. In order for us to be in a relationship with Him, we must have the punishment of our sin paid for. Romans 6:23 tells us the only acceptable payment for sin is death, or a blood sacrifice. He sent His Son to take the penalty for our sin. He died on the cross so we wouldn’t have to. And then, He conquered death three days later when He arose from the grave. All one must do is admit their failures, believe in His Son, accept His gift of eternal life, and follow Him.” Adam realized this was the real battle they were facing. These men weren’t the enemy. They were lost souls that God loved and wanted them to accept His gift of salvation. Adam started praying silently, Lord, forgive me for not seeing the big picture of this war. I thought we needed to save the United States, but your objective is to save the world. Thank you for men like Pastor Moore. Protect him, Lord. Allow him to stay with us to help lead others to you.

The goon in charge looked perplexed as to what he had just heard but the one behind the preacher looked angry. He bumped Timothy as he reached over to smack his cohort. “Wake up you fool!” He shouted. “This man is very dangerous and he’s trying to convince you of things that aren’t true.”

The reverend stayed calm, turning to look at this man who was obviously the real leader of the team. “The only reason I’m dangerous is because I speak for the one true God. You know it. I know it. Your friend here is beginning to see the truth and you’re scared.”

A scuffle broke out as the goons lifted the preacher out of his seat. Adam tried to step in but his friend, Reverend Moore, stopped him. “It’s okay Adam. I now know I’m supposed to go with these guys. I have work to do and so do you. Stay strong for your family.”

They man-handled the preacher out the door to their car. After shoving him in the back seat, they sped off in the direction of Tulsa. Bubba was shocked at what he had just witnessed. “Adam, was what the preacher saying all true?” Bubba asked.

“Yeah Bubba. It’s all true. We just witnessed the true war being waged on our world. It’s good versus evil.” Confused but deep in thought, Bubba moved closer to Adam.

“How do we fight that?” Bubba wondered.

“Like I’ve been telling you Daddy, we team up with the Holy Spirit and let Him do the heavy lifting. We just set the stage for Him. He’s the only one who can truly win hearts and souls for the Lord.” Emma had been listening from the kitchen and had moved to the counter by her dad as the goons left with Reverend Moore.

Adam glanced out the window looking to see if he could still see the car in the distance. “With that said Bubba, we need to figure out a way to rescue Reverend Moore. We need someone like that who isn’t afraid to speak the truth and has the biblical knowledge to preach it.”

“We can help with that!” Dan and Aaron had come through the back door, listening to the end of the conversation. “We planted a tracking device on their car.”

“Good job boys! Did I see you take something out of the car?” Adam inquired.

Aaron showed them the computer chip he had in his hand. Grinning, he informed them how they had switched the chip so that he could figure out how the drones worked and what they were capable of doing.

“I’m supposed to go back to Stillwater to meet with your dad again on issues we’re having at our branch in Tulsa. Have you guys had any contact with him lately?” Adam was curious if the boys knew anything to help him deal with Tom.

They got quiet as the topic turned to their dad, concern showing on their faces. “No, we haven’t but Sarah saw him last week. She said he looked bad, didn’t even recognize her. She’s pretty sure he’s being drugged. In fact, she thought most of Stillwater is under the influence of something. The water tastes funny to her, so she’s been taking bottled water with her when she goes to school. Can they put something in the water supply to affect everyone?”

“Good question. What do you think Bubba?” Adam had some ideas but wanted to get another opinion before expressing what he thought.

“Yeah, it’s possible. We actually did that to a village after you were medevacked out sir. It was eerie how docile they became within a matter of days after we started messing with their water supply. They never knew it either.” Bubba told them once they were sufficiently drugged, they didn’t have to worry about any attacks from that village. The only issues they had were what they assumed were side effects from the drug. The most prevalent problem was migraine headaches. “Debilitating headaches. Put you down and into bed with awful headaches. It was worse for the older population and the children. I’ve heard rumors from others that are still stationed over there that brain cancers are through the roof in that village. If related to what we did, we have been slowly killing all those people, cruel and unusual punishment if you ask me.”

“I need to ask you boys something about what your dad said. I’m sorry in advance if this hurts or dredges up painful memories.” The boys looked confused as Adam paused, trying to figure out the best way to ask about Dan having a different dad. He started slowly but as the story unfolded, he let the details of Tom’s no recollection of Aaron spill out. He could tell the boys were shocked and devastated. “By your reactions and watching your dad as we talked, confirms in my mind that he’s being drugged. If it’s what we used overseas, we need to get him out of there sooner than later.” He paused to let the boys process this disgusting and frightening news about their dad.

Dan was the first one to speak. “Sir, it was horrible watching the cancer slowly kill our mom. I can’t stand the thought of our dad possibly going through that too.” Both boys were obviously upset, wanting to figure out something to help their dad.

Adam felt sorry for them, and angry that the enemy was stooping to this kind of warfare. “Okay, sounds like we must stop this somehow to save all those people, especially your dad. Aaron, see what you can find out about how they’re doing this to the water in Stillwater. Dan, check with Sarah and see if she knows of any drug that will prohibit the side effects of what’s being put in the water. That’s the short-term mission. The long-term mission is to see how we can stop them from doing this!” In Adam’s mind these types of attacks were war crimes and it angered him that the government would do such atrocities.

“I now understand what you mean by the war between good and evil.” Bubba said.

Adam headed back to Stillwater to see if he could work things out with the plant financial issues but wasn’t very optimistic, especially if Tom was being drugged. The meeting went as poorly as he expected. It was evident to him now that Tom was under the influence of something. Another appointment was set for next week. He needed to talk with corporate in Wichita, maybe they could get the manufacturing guidelines loosened up a bit so they could continue their work. Mr. Copenhagen, the CEO who knew about the drone operation in Tulsa might know someone who could help them circumvent the more stringent procedures.