Story Overthrown The Death of America...The Entire Series

day late

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Pride. It always made things easy with these apes, Ives thought to himself. He enjoyed the report that one of his servants had brought to him. Once he knew for certain where those people had gone, and realized a direct assault wasn't going to work, since they were being helped by the Nazarene, he sent out his servant to see what could be done to weaken them.

The servant had influenced a number of those people to begin to question why they didn't have the right to run things. After all, they were as good as the one who was in charge. And even better in some cases, at least so they thought in their own minds. Ives had caused some of them to think. Really, what were this guys qualifications? And at the same time he actually caused them to believe they could have done the same, or better, believing in themselves instead of trusting the One who had kept them safe, and His servant in the town. Yes, pride was such a useful tool. He should have thought of it sooner.

Now all he had to do was wait for a little bit, and those people would tear into each other and divide themselves into at least two camps, thereby separating and weakening both camps. Hopefully, by that time the Chinese would have finally gotten through the mountains, and after their losses at that town, they would be more than willing to finally wipe it off the map, along with everyone there. Well, maybe except the women.

He had already sent his servant back to work on more of them, now if there was another way to use this to his advantage. He knew the master would be pleased, which was something he needed right now. The master wasn't happy about the failed attacks, but didn't replace him yet, because of recent victories in the field.



Jim had just finished his sermon, on the giving of the law to Moses. He hoped that it would have the desired effect. He closed The Bible, and then spoke to the congregation.

"Brothers and Sisters, I want to ask that everyone remain outside, for something that Brother Bob has to say."

Most of the people had no idea what this was about, but if Bob wanted to talk with them, they'd listen. Bob stood on the porch outside the church, Maria at his side, and waited for everyone’s' attention.

"Friends, it has been brought to my attention that there are some here that believe a change in leadership of this town is in order. It has been truthfully pointed out that I wasn't elected to this position. And it seems that there are those who feel that not enough is being done for the people here. Well, I've never claimed to have all the answers, so if there are any here that would like to address this issue, please speak up."

A murmur went through the crowd. It was not like anything they had heard Bob say before. He had always led from a position of strength, and nobody questioned him. So what was this all about?

Glenn McPherson moved to the front and said,

"May I speak?"

"That's why we are here. Please go ahead."

McPherson hitched his Chinese rifle up onto his shoulder, and stepped up on the stairs leading to the porch, turned and addressed the group.

"Friends, I'm sure that we all are grateful to Bob for all he has done for us. When we were wandering the countryside, he took us in, and gave us a place to stay, food to eat, and a safe place to live."

While McPherson was speaking, something caught the eye of Captain Ferguson. It was common practice for everyone to go armed in town, but most people simply carried a pistol. Some of the younger folks would carry a bow and arrow. But Ferguson noticed that this time there were a number of men present carrying fully automatic rifles. It made him uncomfortable. He signaled Sergeant Busby to his side. After hurried whispered instructions, Busby nodded and left the gathering. The Captain turned half of his attention back to McPherson, while keeping his eye on the rifle carrying men.

"Now friends, I ask you. Why is it that we don't have those generators here in town where they would do the most good for one and all of us?" McPherson continued to try to turn the crowd against Bob. "Why don't we get the chance to move around outside of town, and see what is out there?"

"Ain't anybody stopping you." A voice called out. "You want to wander around, go do it."

"What if I wanted to go west? What would happen? You already know the answer to that. These soldiers would stop us, that’s what."

"That's not true Mr. McPherson. If you want to go towards the combat zone, we won't stop you. But do you really believe that is wise?" Captain Ferguson said.

"How do we know it is a combat zone? The Chinese were beaten by us, so how do we know the American Army hasn't had better luck than we have?"

"You know the answer to that. We've picked up radio broadcasts telling us that the Chinese are just about stalled out, but they are still out there."

"So you say. None of us have heard these so-called broadcasts. You people have the only radios. We haven't heard a thing for ourselves. How can you be sure you are listening to American broadcasts, and not propaganda from the Chinese? You can't know. All you have is a voice coming out of a box."

"And do you have anything better?"

"I have common sense. Like I said, we've beaten the Chinese, with almost nothing. I'm sure the Army is doing better."

"We've beaten two small elements of a much larger force. The main force hasn't made a major attack against us. If they had, we might not be here by now."

"I say that they are being defeated by our Army, and we shouldn't be hiding out here in the middle of nowhere, while the fight is still going on. We should join with the Army and repel these invaders. Not to mention that we'd have better food, and more of it. We'd have electricity. Hot showers anytime we wanted." He turned his attention to the crowd once again. "Who's with me? Who says that we replace Bob with someone that will do something more than just cower here."

"I'm with you." Came a call from the back. It was followed by more voices supporting McPherson. Captain Ferguson noticed the calls came mostly from the rifle carrying men.

"I say we vote on it. Right here, right now. Most people of voting age are here, lets' do it." McPherson challenged.

Bob held up his hands for attention. "Friends, it seems to me that the best way to do this, is to just divide this crowd. All those who want to follow Mr. McPhersons lead, move over to my left. Those of you, who want to continue as we are, please move to my right."

There was a brief shuffle as people moved to one side or the other. Bob noticed that in some cases, those who supported McPherson, tried to pull others to their side, but they would pull loose, and move to the right. In the end, about twenty armed men moved to the left. Everyone else, moved to the right. McPherson was furious.

"Can't you people see you're being lead like sheep? Can't you think for yourselves?"

"Mr. McPherson, it seems that you are out voted. Please don't take this any further." Bob asked.

"I haven't been out voted. You've hood-winked them. You've blinded them to the truth, so you can continue to play God over us. Well, we'll see about that. If they can't see the truth, we'll make them see."

He turned and signaled the armed group. They reached for their weapons. A blast of automatic fire ripped the ground between the two factions. Every head turned to see Sergeant Busby standing at the corner of the church, with his weapon trained on McPherson. The other members of the Special Forces popped up from nowhere, surrounding the armed group. Every man pointing his weapon at them. Slowly they dropped their rifles, and raised their hands.

"You set this up." McPherson screamed at Bob.

"No Mr. McPherson. You did when you had armed men come to church." Bob looked at those to his right. "What do you folks say we should do?"

"Shoot them." Came a call.

"Why?"

"Bob, don't you think they were going to do that to you?"

"Possibly. But the truth is that no one was hurt. I can't order a man’s death without a cause."

"Bob." Came another voice. "You've always done the right thing. What do you think we should do?"

"Yeah. We sure can't trust them after this. You can't just turn them loose either. So what do you think we should do?"

"There is an answer. The way I see it, these men have placed themselves outside of Gods' will. They have turned their backs on Him, so we turn our backs on them. Banishment is the way. Cast them out from among us. They don't want to do things Gods' way, then let them follow their own way, somewhere else."

It didn't take long before the chant went up.

"Cast them out! Cast them out!"

Bob waved the crowd to silence, and then turned to the men.

"You will remain here. One at a time, you will be escorted to where you live. You may take with you, only those things you brought with you. Everything else remains here. As soon as all of you have your possessions, you will leave this place. If you ever return, you will be shot."
 

day late

money? whats that?
The wound on Glenn McPherson's arm had started to bleed again. Of the twenty or so men that had been cast out of the town, there were only three left that he knew of for certain. And it had only been four days since they were cast out. He couldn't believe he had made such a mess of things. He couldn't fathom what had made him believe that he would do a better job than Bob had done. But he knew he would show Bob who was the better man. He thought back over the time since that day.

True to his word, Bob had allowed everyone of them to collect what they had brought with them into the town. He had allowed them to take two canteens of water per man. He had also allowed them to each have a pistol, and two magazines of ammunition. When McPherson had protested to Bob that they needed rifles, Bobs' answer had been short and to the point.

"Not a chance. We don't need you guys sitting up in the hills, playing sniper and taking pot shots at us. Besides, if and when the Chinese come back, we'll need them."

"We won't stand a chance without rifles. You have to give us at least a couple."

"I'm giving you a better chance than you were going to give the people of this town. No rifles."

As they left, Bob had even seen to it that they were given a map, and the general areas where he knew that water could be found, within three days march on foot to the east. It didn't take one day for things to start going downhill. They had left around the middle of the morning. By noon, some of the men were already complaining about not having hats to protect them from the sun. By sundown, tempers were already growing short. That night wasn't any better. First they had trouble starting a fire, and then after they got one going, they realized how it gave away their position to anyone within sight of it, they fought over how big of a fire to have. They ended up agreeing to a small fire, and that was when they realized just how little food they had with them.

McPherson decided that first thing in the morning, they would have to do some hunting. When he announced this, he ran into more problems.

"Considering the mess you've made of things, who are you to be in charge around here?" One of them shouted at him. "You told us that we'd be on top of things, and now here we are stuck out here in the middle of nowhere, with nothing."

"Fine, you don't want to hunt, then you don't get a share of whatever we get. For that matter, if you aren't going to help, you're no use at all. We don't need a slacker dragging us down." With that, McPherson shot him. "Is there anyone else that doesn't want to do his share?" He asked angrily.

There was no answer at that time, but by the time they woke in the morning, six men had left the group in the night, taking more than their share of the food and water with them. At first, they all started to try to track them down, but it soon became clear that the thieves had a several hour head start. McPherson talked the rest of them to continue their trek eastward.

As the day went on, they grew hungrier and thirstier on the short rations. By nightfall the next day the remaining fourteen men were barely speaking to each other. Nobody felt like starting a fire, and the last of the food was soon gone, since none of them knew anything about hunting, no game had been taken. McPherson checked the map, and told them water should be only a few miles ahead the next morning. With that news, three of them decided it would be better to move at night, while it was cooler, to find the much needed water. The rest of them didn't feel like arguing with them.

On the morning of the third day, they all started out, following the map. Within a couple of miles they found a body. It was impossible to tell how he had died. The animals that found him hadn't left much. As they checked around, they found footprints, running from the scene of the death, with what seemed to be dog footprints following. McPherson gave up on finding the other two alive, and directed the remaining members of the group towards the waterhole they were looking for.

It was nearly two o'clock, he figured, when some of them decided that McPherson didn't know what he was doing, or where they were going. The group divided almost in two. A man named Brian shouted at McPherson.

"What an idiot you are. They give you a map and you still can't find where you're going. For the life of me, I can't understand why I let you talk me into this. Give me that map. I'm leading from now on."

He grabbed at the map.

"Like hell I will."

McPherson pulled it away. The two men began to fight over the map. They went to the ground. From there, McPherson lost track of what happened, but the next thing he knew, shots were being fired all around him. One round hit him in the arm, and he went down. He pulled his weapon and fired at anyone that moved near him. By the time it was over, seven men were dead.

Somehow Brian managed to escape without a scratch. He picked up the map that had been dropped in the fight. After checking for landmarks, he signaled the other two men to follow him. He started to walk away in the direction he believed water to be. That was when McPherson aimed his pistol and shot him in the back.

The last two men turned to find McPherson aiming at them.

"Give me your weapons." He demanded. They complied with the demand. He picked up the map, and said, "Now, follow ME."

They started walking again. It was only twenty minutes later they found a small lake.

"Now, tell me I don't know what I'm doing." Was all he said.

All three of them dove into the water, and drank their fill. While it was welcome relief, it didn't stop their hunger.

Still they stayed there for the night, and in the morning, started out again. McPherson’s arm had started bleeding again that morning. As the three men continued eastward, towards a town that was just few miles more, according to the map, McPherson’s began to think about how he would turn in Bob and the rest of them. Then he would lead government troops to the town. He would only ask the pleasure of killing Bob himself. Well, that and his share of the loot. That was all he could think of now. The thought even helped to block out hunger. He was so engrossed in his thoughts of revenge, he failed to notice the movement in the bushes around them. He was still in his fantasy of how painful Bobs' death would be, when the dogs attacked. They were thirteen miles from the next town. The demon that had so poisoned McPherson's mind, left to return to his master.
 

day late

money? whats that?
Chapter Seventeen


Director Ives wasn't really disappointed with the report from his servant. True the leader that was becoming rapidly his obsession was still alive, but the group had been weakened. He had his servant go back to the town. Pride had done some damage to them, not as much as he had hoped for, but some. Now they would use fear. Fear had always been such a useful tool. He instructed his demonic servant in the best ways to put fear in the minds of the people. Giving them wild imaginings, that would cause them to be unsure of their leader. Did he really know what he was doing, since he had to throw out the other people? Who would he throw out next? If he kept doing that could they hold out in this nowhere town. Why should they try? After all, they could have more of the comforts they had enjoyed before if they just went to a larger town that was still part of the grid. Ives went on detailing how the servant was to instill fear and doubt in the people. But he knew he had to move quickly, before those people had a chance to start praying to the Nazarene.




"Hey, Dad. Have you got a minute?"

"Sure Alex. What's on your mind?"

"Well, I'm kind of concerned about Mike. I mean she's O.K. from what I can tell, and Kathy says that morning sickness is normal for a lot of women, but I'm kind of worried about it. What was Mom like when she was pregnant with me?"

"I wish I could help you Son. Your mother was unusual. She never had a moment of morning sickness with you. She had a few cravings, and even those weren't for anything unusual, just at strange hours of the day and night. Why don't you just trust what Kathy tells you. I mean, a woman doesn't have four children without learning a thing or two, even if she is a doctor."

"I know. It's just that lately I've been kind of worried about her and the baby, that's all."

"Trust The Lord, Son. He made women, and knew that this would happen when he did. And trust your doctor. Try not to worry, and if it gets to be too much, pray about it. After all, 'Perfect love casts out all fear."

"Okay, I'll try."

That was the first 'odd' conversation that Bob had that day. People kept coming to him with questions and concerns about things they had never mentioned or thought of before. Was there enough water for the people of the town? Was there enough food to see them through the coming winter? When would the Chinese return? Did he think the men they had thrown out would either betray them, or come back with others to kill them all? Anything and everything that might be a concern, Bob was being questioned about. Finally, he went to see Jim.

"Afternoon, Jim. Got a minute?"

"Don't tell me you're worried about something too."

"That's what I thought. I am worried about something. I'm worried about all these people who keep coming to me with the strangest concerns. I gather that you have been going through the same thing.'

"Very much so, I just didn't know it was happening to you as well." Jim looked at him closely. "Do you mind telling me what they have been asking?"

Bob told him of the people’s worries, starting with Alex and working his way through the list.

"That's what I thought. It’s exactly the same for me, except I had Michelle asking me about her pregnancy. You realize what this means, don't you?"

"I'm not sure, but it is a strange thing for certain. Very unusual."

"Unless I miss my guess, we are under some kind of demonic attack. I'd like to get everyone together, tonight, and talk with them. Could you put out the word for me?"

"Certainly."

As the sun was setting, the majority of the townsfolk gathered at the church. Jim was brief. He told them about what was happening. He told them that The Lord had warned about such groundless fears, and how to deal with them.

"Let me finish tonight by saying that I'm calling for a solemn assembly. I want to ask you all to join with me tomorrow for a day of prayer and fasting. Praying for The Lord to remove these fears from our hearts, and our minds. Asking for the Holy Spirit to guide us back into a perfect trust in The Father."

Some of the people began their fast that very night.





Ives' demonic servant didn't know what to think. He had told Ives about what he had experienced. It had gotten uncomfortable just before he had left one evening. The next morning, as he tried to return to the town, he couldn't even get close. It was like running into a brick wall. There was no avenue he could use to get to the towns people. He just couldn't understand it. Things had been going so well most of the day before.

Ives knew what had happened. Those people, those monkeys, had appealed to the Nazarene for help. Now He had placed a wall of protection around them. He knew very well that was what had happened. The same thing had happened to him once. Back when he was riding with Saul of Tarsus on the way to Damascus. He smiled at the first part of the memory. Saul had been such a religious man. It had been so simple to convince him that the new sect had to be wiped out. He had come close to doing it as well, until the Nazarene had stepped in and spoken with Saul. Ives had been really physically hurt that day. He'd never been hurt so much since they had lost that battle for the Throne that the master wanted so badly. While he was musing over these things, the servant quietly slipped out, unnoticed.

Director Ives gave his problem long and careful thought. He couldn't keep the master pleased, or at least not angry with him, much longer. The Chinese had stalled out in their drive into the mountains, just short of the continental divide. He had to come up with a way to disrupt the American forces from behind. The thought also occurred to him that he would also have another chance at that town.

The question was how. What could he do to cause such disruption, that while the Americans were trying to get it sorted out, the Chinese could take advantage of the situation. Something nagged at the back of his mind. Then he remembered. Claire had an idea. Find an excuse to call up the civilians, arm them, and send them to the front. Of course, what Claire had done was his ruination. What he had to do was get the people moving, without arming them, and still cause trouble.

Slowly a new idea began to form. What if he sent the civilians to the front, to be trained by the American forces? What these monkeys called on-the-job training. And there were certainly enough of them who actually wanted to get into the fighting. And what if he reminded them about the rewards for capturing or killing Christians? Especially, if he suggested where they might be hiding out. He began working on the announcement.




"Captain, Can I talk to you for a moment?"

"Anytime, Bob. You're the Boss."

"That's still hard to get used to. I feel like I should look over my shoulder to see who you are talking to.” Bob said with a wry smile on his face. “Anyway, I was praying about our current situation. Then I got to thinking. It's been awhile since we've been attacked from the west. From what we've been picking up on the radio, the American forces seem to be holding their own. But our enemy isn't limited to just Chinese soldiers. We have to remember that being a Christian is illegal now. And I've been praying and thinking about it. What if anti-Christian forces come at us from the east?"

"It would certainly put us between a rock and a hard place. Have you come up with any ideas?"

"I have a few of them. First of all, we have about fifty men capable of fighting. But I'd like to avoid that if possible. If we subtract you and your men, we are down to a little over forty. I'd you to divide your men into teams of two. Each team will take a group of men, and train them well enough to impersonate actual soldiers."

"Bob, it would be easier to make them into soldiers, than just trying to fake it. We would also have the advantage of an actual force we can work with. Anyone can be a great soldier in the barracks, but it's another matter when the bullets start to fly." Captain Ferguson said.

"When you put it that way, it makes a lot of sense. I admit having a force like that would make me feel better. The point is that we could start doing some real patrols around here, and with your men leading each of these squads, we'll have a much better chance of pulling this off. The way I see it, we can't use the old 'Bio-Hazard' routine any more since the main road is blocked off. We need another dodge. That is where I'm coming up short. A new idea I mean."

"Let me think about it. Largely it depends on the situation. If we run into another active unit, we'd better have soldiers to use. If it is a bunch of civilians, we'll have trained men to deal with it. One thing though. What about the women. I know there are some of them that are willing to do whatever it takes. Your wife, for example. You aren't thinking of keeping them out of it are you? I don't think many of them will take kindly to that."

"No. We won't leave them out, but from what I've seen and heard women aren't sent out on patrol. We'll use them to guard the town, and as a reserve force, if it comes to that." Bob was thoughtful for a moment, and then spoke again. "Captain, this is totally under your control, and I wouldn't think of telling you your business, but wouldn't it make things better if you had an officer as your second in command?"

Ferguson smiled, "It would, and I've been thinking that Busby would make a fine lieutenant. But if possible, it looks better if civilian authority recommends the promotion. Officers are appointed by the president you know."

"We don't have a president anymore, as far as I know."

"True. However we do have a civilian authority in this town, don't we? As far as I'm concerned, you have the power to do anything from testing and then to promote, right up to battlefield commissions."

It was Bob's turn to smile. "Very well, MAJOR. See to it."

Ferguson saluted and responded. "Yes Sir. And thank you."

"You've earned it."




It took a month before Ives was ready. When he was, he made sure that everyone would know about it. The notice from Director Ives was posted publicly and spread by word of mouth all over the western portion of the former United States.

NOTICE:

The Director of the western region hereby declares, and makes it known;

The American forces engaged in the mountains have stopped the advance of our enemy. These brave men and women have put up a valiant fight to preserve our lives, peace, and safety. In the face of overwhelming odds, they have prevented the Chinese forces from moving inland any further, and continue to fight to regain the land we have lost in this war. I know that all the people of this land wish to offer them our thanks, and whatever support that we can give.

But this victory has come at a high price. Many of our finest have been wounded, and even killed in this fight for freedom. Their numbers have been reduced to the point that new soldiers must be trained, and brought into the fight against the aggressor, if we are to win.

I know that you, the people of this great land, have given much to preserve this land of freedom and opportunity. Now, I must ask for you to give one more time. Not food, money, or possessions, but to give yourselves for the future welfare of your families, your wives and children. The enemy has been stopped, but to drive them from this land, we must have more soldiers.

Therefore, I'm asking all who have any military experience of any kind, and any others willing to join in the final push to rid this land of these aggressors to come to the city of Fort Carson, Colorado, for training and deployment. Even if you are in poor health, you can use a typewriter, and be a clerk, thus freeing a trained soldier for duty on the front. Everyone can do something to further the war effort. We need cooks, truck drivers, and persons of every type to refill our ranks.

Will you step forward and be a patriot? Or will you choose to be like those cowardly Christians? Those who hid and let others do the hard work of freeing this land. If you know any of these people, you know what the true creators, our brothers from space, have said about them. Let them give up their religion and join us, or let them be destroyed. They are the ones at fault for all of these troubles. If they hadn't clung to their false ways, the enemy would have never invaded, because we would have been too strong for them. We would have been contacted sooner, and would have had the means of defending this land from all enemies.

I remind you of this, because it has come to my attention that many of them have sought refuge in the mountains of the western states, as well as the eastern mountain range. As you come to Colorado, let no town or village go unsearched. Root them out, so that we will know the only enemy will be in front of us.

By Order of Director Ives,

Director of the Western Region.




Bob turned off the radio after the announcement had been read.

"If anyone had any doubts before this, I'm sure they are gone now. Ives has pulled out all the stops in an effort to get us, and any other Christians in the mountains, just like Claire did back east." He shook his head. "Major, how long before your men are ready for what's coming?"

"If it is just civilians, we're ready now. Thanks to The Lord, most of our men are vets. So for them it was really a refresher course in being a soldier, and getting them back in shape. And with a little extra training from those of us in the S.F. they pulled it off in quick time. And the gillie suits help a lot as well. By the way, I've been meaning to ask you. Where did you learn to make one? I thought you said you were just a regular grunt."

"Truthfully, I wanted one for years, but they were kind of pricey. So, I studied up on how they were made and did it myself." Bob smiled at the memory. "Nancy thought I was a little crazy for doing it, but I got it done. Now I'm glad I did."

Bobs' mind drifted back on the making of the suit. He had taken an old pair of pants, and a shirt, then sewed lines around them, with embroidery thread, making the stitches about four to six inches apart. Then he had bought a couple of burlap turkey blinds, and unraveled them, thread by thread. Once that was done, he cut the threads to lengths of eighteen to twenty-four inches long, and died about have of them. Then, came the longest part of the project. He took each thread, folded it in half, then pushed the loop under the stitching, and brought the loose ends up through the loop, and pulled it tight. All told, it took him about three weeks working in the evenings and at nights to get it done, including the hood he wore over his hat. But it had been worth it. He remembered how one time while hunting, two other men walked up close enough to him, without seeing him, he could almost touch them. They had almost jumped out of their skins when he greeted them.

"What about regular military forces you might run into?" Bob asked.

"Honestly, I don't think that will be much of a problem. They are at the front, and they'll have their hands full between the Chinese and their new 'recruits'. And I even have an idea of how to make them look the other way."

"How's that?"

"Why, we tell them the truth. We're looking for Christians."
 

day late

money? whats that?
Surreal. That was the only way Lieutenant Busby could think of to describe the recent past. First was the day he had gone from a Staff Sergeant, to a First Lieutenant in one day. O.K. that was different, but not unknown in a battlefield situation. Then he and another team member had been given fifteen civilians and told to turn them into soldiers, A.S.A.P. He thanked God that most of them had been in the service at some point, and already knew a lot of the things he was supposed to teach them. Things like how to move forward while under fire. How to make a camp that won't be seen, and break camp so that nobody would ever suspect that they had been there. How to follow a road without actually walking on it, by moving parallel to it, and avoid being seen. These men in turn helped to teach the ones who had never served a day in their lives. Or they had never been into the outdoor kind of life. Things went quickly and well, and his two squads were ready by the end of the third week.

While going on a long range patrol was something he knew well, normally the team would be dropped off, and picked up by helicopter. Now, after a few hours in the saddle, his thighs were telling him that he had a long way to go before he could consider himself any kind of horseman. He was sure that his men felt the same way. But to their credit, none complained. On the day they had left town, he'd looked back at the men following him, and couldn't help but think they looked like they were in an old John Wayne movie. He had sixteen men, on horseback, riding off into the brush, looking of hostiles. He had questioned the Major about bringing one of the microwave weapons, and its generator, but the Major had insisted.

"Busby, lets' hope it isn't needed. But if you run into more than what you are expecting, that thing can be used against people. It won't fire them up the way it does electronics, but after a few seconds of it, they'll want to be someplace else. Just set it up in an over watch position before you engage the enemy."

Busby shook his head, and grinned at the thought. Horse soldiers with Chinese made automatic weapons and microwave beams. John Wayne would be proud.

Then there was what happened yesterday. They had been out for four days, without seeing anything except wild animals, and birds. On the second day they had taken a deer to supplement the rations they were carrying. They got up on the third morning, donned their gillie suits, and began again to parallel the road, about forty yards away from it. The suits were hot, but by leaving the front of the shirt open, and being on horseback, it was at least tolerable.

Once again they came to a ridgeline. It had already become almost a habit by now that when they came to one, the main force would stop under cover, while he and, what was that mans' name? Foster! That was it. He and Foster would ride out to just below the crest of the ridge, dismount, and slowly walk up to it, to peek over it to see what might be on the other side. The other S.F. man was left in charge of the squads while Busby was absent.

This time they saw, alright. They saw a group of twelve to fourteen men moving down the road, towards them. Busby knew they were almost certainly civilians by their lack of discipline, not to mention the way they were dressed. They were moving slowly because some of them were on foot, while some rode horses, and some rode in a mule drawn wagon. Suddenly one of the men in the lead called a halt.

"Alright. You guys in the wagon, the ride is over. You guys on foot, you're turn to sit for awhile."

Busby was impressed. As he signaled Foster to move back to the rest, He thought about it. Whoever this guy was, he was looking after his men. Making sure they all arrived at the Colorado Springs/Fort Carson area in good shape. He would bare watching.

The men gathered around Busby, at his signal. "Alright. It looks like we have twelve or more men coming this way. Who has First Squad?"

"I do, Sir. Chaplin is the name."

"O.K. Chaplin, look here." He drew a line on the ground, and then a 'V' intersecting it. "I want you to take both A and B teams of first squad. Cross the road, and spread your men out in a line on the other side, like this." He indicated one side of the 'V'. "I want no less than five yards between men. Take whatever cover you can find, get down, and don't move. Murphy." He called to his S.F. team member.

"Here, Sir."

"You take both teams of second squad and do the same on this side of the road. Put yourself in the middle of the line, and have someone watch their back trail. Now, you men, this is the first time you've done anything like this. I know you are nervous. Only Murphy and I have ever had to do this kind of thing before. Just do like we do, and don't do anything we don't. If the shooting starts, just make sure of your targets before you pull the trigger.”
Busby looked at the two men assigned to the microwave."You two, position yourselves here." He made a dot in the dirt map just about the middle of Murphy’s squad. "Position yourselves to the rear of these people. Make sure if you have to use that thing, you don't cook any of us. And for heavens' sake, DO NOT start that generator unless the shooting starts. Any questions?”

There were none.

"Move out."




Terry Buckley was proud of himself. His group had been on the move for a little over a week, and he hadn't lost anybody, and they were all in good shape, and spirits. They knew that their goal was only a few days ahead, and they had enough food and water to reach it with a little to spare. Then they would finally have a crack at those Chinese. Teach them who not to invade. Shame they hadn't been able to locate any Christians though. Still, things were going well, and looked to continue that way. But when they came over the last ridge, they saw the two men sitting on horses in the middle of the road. As they got closer, Buckley could clearly see the two were in uniform, and showed no signs of getting out of his way. He waited until they were within five yards of them before he called a halt.

"What are you men doing on this road?" Busby demanded.

"We're on our way to Fort Carson to join up, and fight the Chinese."

"SIR!"

"Excuse me?"

"You're on your way to join up and fight the Chinese, SIR! Or are you so blind you can't recognize an officer when you see one?"

"Hey we're civilians. I don't have to salute you yet."

"We are, and have been for some time now, under martial law. That makes a buck private your superior. Do I make myself clear Mr.?"

"Don't give me that crap. Like I said, we're civilians. Besides, there are twelve of us and two of you, out in the middle of nowhere. What do you think you're going to do about it?"

Busby sneered at Buckley, and then said, "I'll show you. A team, First squad, B team, Second squad, on your feet, take aim."

Buckley knew real fear for the first time as the bushes on both side of the road stood up and aimed their weapons at him. He thought quickly and said, "Buckley. The names' Buckley, uh Sir."

"Mr. Buckley, let me inform you of something. From this time on, you will obey any order given to you at any time, by anyone wearing a uniform. Understood?"

"Yes Sir."

"Good. My men and I are looking for Christians, so get those men out of the wagon. I want them lined up on the side of the road, with five yards between them."

"Yes, Sir. Alright! You heard him. Out of the wagon, line up."

The men hurriedly did as they were told, while looking into the brush, wondering how many more rifles were trained on them.

"Alright Buckley, I'll start with you." He sternly looked Buckley in the eye, and asked softly, "Are you a Christian?"

"Oh hell no, Sir. I always thought there was something strange about them."

Busby grunted, and started to turn away.

"Is that all you're going to ask me, Sir?"

"Buckley, you better get your head on straight, before some Chinese takes it off. Christians can't deny their God. If you ask them, they have to tell you, because they can't lie about it. It would send them to hell."

"Sir, everyone here has been asked about that."

"Buckley, do you plan on making a career of questioning orders from your superior officers? If so, I want to tell you that is a good way to get yourself in heaps of trouble real quick. Now, SHUT UP and get back in line."

Busby turned to his left. "First Squad, team B, assemble on me."

More bushes stood up and moved to the Lieutenant.

"Follow me." Was all he said. Busby, moved down the line of men, stopping briefly in front each one and asked them. "Are you a Christian?"

Most of the men immediately denied it. However he found four men who's' answers were evasive. He signaled men from the team, two at a time, and they escorted these four out of the area. Having finished his questioning, Busby returned to the front of the line.

"Mr. Buckley, I've taken four of your men that I want to question further. If they aren't Christians, they will be freed to return to you. If they are, you won't have to worry about it anymore. Now listen carefully to what I'm going to tell you. There is a pass up ahead that has been completely blocked by a landslide. Unless you want to abandon this wagon, and anything you can't carry, turn that thing around. Go back about ten miles, and there is a fork in the road. Take the east road. It is clear. It will take you a longer time to get to Carson, but the way is clear. Now get moving."

"Yes Sir." Buckley turned and ordered his men to either remount or get back in the wagon. Then they turned around and started back the way they came.

Busby waited until the wagon had disappeared over the rise, and then waited some more. Finally a bush stood up and waved at him. He waved the man to come back. Then he turned and walked into the brush towards the waiting frightened men. Since there were four of them, they had been placed two together, in separate places. Where they were held under guard. He went to the nearest two.

"The reason you are here, is because I didn't like your answer when I asked if you were Christians. Understand me gentlemen. We can't afford having the wrong men set free. You will give me a straight answer to a straight question, or I will shoot you where you are sitting. You." He pointed to the man on his left. "Are you or are you not a Christian?"

"He is. I heard him praying last night." The man on the right said. "Shoot him."

"If that is true, why didn't you turn him in?"

"Turn him in where? We've been on the road for over a week. I was going to turn him in as soon as we got to Colorado."

"So how do I know you're not one of them? That you're not trying to throw me off the scent?"

"Sir, I always believed what I believe is my business, not anyone else has a right to know. I just didn't realize how serious you were, or I would have told you."

Busby turned back to the left hand man. He was sitting quietly, holding his head. He seemed to be praying.

"Well, how about it? Are you a Christian?"

"I believe in The Father, Son, and The Holy Spirit. If that is a crime, I plead guilty. Shoot me if you must."

"You see, you see! He admits it. You have to take care of him Sir."

"Don't worry, I will." Busby pulled his pistol and shot the man on the right in the head. The Christian looked stunned, and started to speak. Busby covered his mouth with his hand and said, "Not a sound. Understand me?"

He nodded his head. Busby stood up, and made his way to the other two men. They had had a chance to talk to each other, and had come to an agreement. When Busby entered the small clearing where they were being held, they stood together.

"Sir, I am a Christian. If I have to die for that, I am ready."

The second man simply said, "Blessed be the name of The Father, Son and Holy Ghost."

Busby looked at their guards and said, "Bring them."



It had taken the most of the rest of that day for the men to realize that they weren't prisoners. That they were in fact, free men once more. Free to worship God as they had always done. Not in secret, but in a gathering of brothers and sisters in The Lord. They happily joined in when grace was said around the fire at supper that night.

When Busby had left town, he had been at the head of a column of sixteen men. But the time he returned two weeks later, there were twenty three men, seventeen women and girls, and of all things, a cat. It was a pet of one of the younger girls. How she had managed to keep it hidden and fed, Busby couldn't guess. He spied the Major as he came into Trinity, and rode over to him after giving orders to his men to see to their guests.

"Lieutenant, what on earth is all of this?"

“Sir, with your permission, I'd like to take care of my horse, and clean up a little. Then I'll give my report."

"Take your time Busby. Tomorrow is soon enough."

"Yes Sir. Thank you Sir."

He turned and rode towards the stable. Wondering just how different things could get.
 

day late

money? whats that?
Early on the morning of the third day after Lieutenant Busby’s' return, there was a knock on the door at Bobs’ home.

"It's open." Maria called.

The door opened, and Major Ferguson and Lieutenant Busby stepped in.

"Good morning Ma'am. I hope we aren't disturbing anyone."

"Not at all, Major, Lieutenant. I assume you want to speak with Bob."

"If it's not a bother, Ma'am."

"Major, the only bother around here is you. You know my name, use it. When you call me 'Ma'am' you make me feel like an old woman. At my age, that's not a good idea."

"I'm sorry, Ma... Maria. I meant no offense."

"None taken, Major. You've never been married, have you?"

"No, I haven't, Maria. I never found a woman that could put up with me."

"I find that hard to believe. I think you just weren't looking."

"Maybe so, Maria, maybe so."

"Maybe what?" Bob asked as he entered the room.

"Oh, I was just nagging the Major about finding a wife." Maria said.

"I think I'm going to stay out of this one. Good morning Major, Lieutenant. What can I do for you?"

"Morning, Sir. I'm sorry it has taken this long, but we have a report about the Lieutenants' patrol for you."

"Good. I've been waiting for it. So, what's the story?"

"Mostly it’s good news. The Doctor, Kathy, has gone through all of the usual chest thumping, say ah, turn your head and cough, kind of thing on all of the people the Lieutenant brought in, and they all seem to be in good health. The worst thing was treating the wounds on the wrists and ankles of the women from their chains. Other than that, everything looks okay physically. Also, every one of them claims faith in The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We've checked them on that, and they all really are Christians.

"That's good to hear. How about the men? Are they willing to help out around here, and are all of them willing to accept the situation as it is?"

"Sir, right now they are so happy to be here, they'd accept a dirt sandwich at this point."

"Well we'll have to keep an eye on them for awhile. We don't need someone making more trouble like we've had recently."

"Funny you should mention that. Lieutenant Busby has news of our old friend, Mr. McPherson. Lieutenant."

Busby Looked at the floor, and then put his hand into his pocket, and pulled out a pistol.

"Sir, do you recognize this?" He handed the weapon to Bob.

Looking it over carefully, Bob noticed the grip of the pistol had the letters GM carved into it.

"Didn't this belong to McPherson?" He asked.

"I believe so, Sir. It is hard to say. There wasn't much left when we found it."

"You're losing me Lieutenant."

"Well, Sir, we'd been out about ten days when we found what was left of some people. The animals didn't leave much, just some bones, and what they couldn't eat. That was near one of the bodies. The slide was locked open. The magazines we found were all empty. I don't know what happened, but he didn't go down without a fight."

"Well, we know he wasn't a coward. Stupid maybe, but not a coward. So what else can you tell me about what is happening out there?"

"Sir, I think it is best if I start at the beginning. As you know, we left here to patrol to the east, looking for anyone that might cause us trouble. During the first eleven days, we came across eight groups of men headed for Fort Carson, and the front. Each time, we laid an ambush for them and let them walk into it. We didn’t fire, we only halted them. Once we had them stopped, we did as the Major had suggested. We told them that we were on patrol, looking for Christians. Then we would separate them, and question them individually. Most of them denied both The Lord, and Christianity right off the top. In some cases it seemed like each man was trying to out blaspheme the one before him. Once in a while, we'd find a man or two who wouldn't actually deny Christ, but wouldn't admit to being Christians themselves."

"That seems reasonable, given the circumstances. Are you certain they didn't deny Him?"

"Yes Sir. That was one thing we were very careful about."

"Not to offend you Lieutenant, but how did you do that?"

"No offense taken, Sir. Basically I gave them nowhere to go. They had to declare for The Lord, or against Him. I told them I wanted a simple answer to a simple question. 'Are you a Christian?', either answer yes, or answer no. If they gave any other answer, I'd shoot them on the spot."

"Isn't that rather harsh, Lieutenant?" Maria asked.

"I don't think so Maria. We have reached the point in history where either you are on The Lords' side, or you're against Him. It is time to take a stand. That is what I made them do."

"Lieutenant, what happened to the ones who took a stand against?" Bob wanted to know.

Busby’s face took on a hard look. "They are still out there on the prairie. Feeding the scavengers."

"You killed them?" Maria gasped.

"Maria, you have to understand something. If you leave a known enemy behind you, an enemy who has sworn to kill you, then you are going to die. And at a time and place of his choosing. I'm not going to expose my men, this town, or myself to such an unacceptable risk."

"I suppose you're right. It just seems so cold blooded. I mean you didn't give them a chance, did you?"

"You're wrong, Maria. When we first stopped these convoys, they had a chance to declare for or against. If it was against, in order to keep our cover, we'd let them go. It was only the suspected Christians that we questioned further. By the time we were done, there wasn't any doubt that we were Christians. We couldn't let them go, only to have them send others after us."

Bob interrupted the exchange. "What about the women? How did you happen across them?"

Busby looked disgusted. "Sir, have you ever seen those wagons they used in the old west, to transport prisoners?"

"Yes. Well, at least pictures of them. They were iron cages on wheels, with nothing overhead, except bars."

"That's it, except they had put a canvas cover over the tops of these wagons. They didn’t want the women to become useless because of the sun when they arrived at Ft. Carson. There were two of those kinds of wagons, with eight men. Each wagon had one man driving it. Then there were two out front, two bringing up the rear, and an outrider on each side.”
Busby paused before continuing. “Sir, I take no pleasure in killing. In this case however, I'm glad we did what we did. Not only were the women locked inside those cages, they were shackled together. They couldn't even get to the water barrel, and had to depend on the men to give them a drink. It gave a whole new meaning to the expression, ‘hell on wheels'. Sir, we never gave them a chance. They rode into the ambush, and we shot them. Two rounds per man."

Busby shook his head at the memory, and went on.

"Sir, I have to tell you, what happened next was just so unreal. Once we made sure all the men were down, and found the keys. We unlocked the cages, and tied the door open, then unshackled the women. At first, they thought we were some sort of bandit gang and we were going to do who knows what to them. They were all praying, reciting psalms, and you name it. They couldn't believe that they were being freed. It wasn't until we started to move, with the chains off, and the doors open that they began to settle down."

"I'm sure I already know, but tell me. Where were they taking them?"

"Because they were Christian, and had the misfortune of being attractive, they were on their way to the front, to provide rest and relaxation to the men there. That was the only purpose in their lives anymore. They were told if they didn't satisfy the men, they wouldn't have any other reason to be allowed to live. To prove it to them, just before they left, one of them was taken from the group, and told to perform certain acts to please the head man in the convoy. When she refused, she was killed."

"What have we become?" Bob said to himself.

"Sir, whatever once was America, is no more. I mean I could understand it, if the men had been Chinese or Russian, but these were American men, doing it to their own people. It makes me ashamed."

Bob changed the subject. "Major, obviously, we have large numbers of men wandering around out there. What are your thoughts on keeping them away from here?"

"Sir, Lieutenant Busby has already done something about it. He and his men back tracked those convoys, and put up a sign warning of a pass ahead that was blocked by a landslide, at a fork in the road. So, everyone is being diverted to the eastern road. That should keep them at least another forty or fifty miles from us. But I think it would be wise to continue to patrol out there, just in case."

"I agree. Very well, I leave that in your hands. When is the next patrol going to be ready to go?"

"They left yesterday."

"Good. Now what is being done for the new arrivals?"

"Kathy thought it would be a good idea to just let them get to know us. Talk with some of the people around here, that sort of thing."

"Sounds like a good idea to me. Is there anyone talking to them now?"

"Kathy thought the sight of a pregnant woman and her husband would be the quickest way to show them we intend no harm, so Alex and Mike are with them right now."

"Okay. I hope they don't have any problems."



The community center had been changed once again. Now it was a makeshift dormitory for the newest arrivals. Alex and Mike, who was starting to show her pregnancy, sat speaking with them.

"So, how did you two meet?" One of the women asked Alex and Michelle.

"Truthfully, the first time I laid eyes on my lovely bride, she had a shotgun in my back, and was threatening to shoot great big holes in me."

"What!"

"Alex! You were about to shoot my mother."

"Say what?"

"That was because she was going to shoot my father."

"What the...Wait a minute! Are you two serious?"

Alex and Mike burst into laughter. After regaining control of themselves, they explained the strange circumstances of their first encounter.

"So, obviously, it all worked out in the end."

"Not without a few bruises, I have to say."

"Now, Alex. I apologized about that."

"I know, Sweetheart, but my arm was still in a sling for the rest of the week."

"All right. Hold it. What is this all about?"

Alex smiled. "That was my fault really. You may have noticed a shortage of grocery stores around here. We've had to rely on The Lord to provide. Mike and I went out to find editable wild plants, which are pretty abundant around here. While we were out there, I put my arm around her waist. Next thing I knew, I was face down in the dirt, and Mike was trying to put my left elbow into my right ear. Not a good fit, I have to say."

A woman looked at Alex. "Are you sure it's safe to sleep around her?"

"Oh, it's okay. She has promised as long as I'm a good boy she won't beat me up any more."

Mike slapped him on the arm. "Alex. Be nice or Momma WILL spank."

"Yes Dear."

At this they both began to laugh again. It wasn't long before chuckles were running through the group as they witnessed the cheerful playfulness of the young couple. Before long, they were all beginning to feel, if not at home, at least safe and welcome.
What had started out as simply friendly conversation between Alex, Michelle, and the crowd of newcomers, slowly changed as time went on. It began with questions about the two of them.

"So just how did she beat you up? You're bigger than she is."

"She has a black belt."

"When are you expecting to have your baby?"

"Did your parents ever work things out?

As it continued, the tone of questions changed.

"What about police protection? Are there any police around here?"

"How about water? We have to have it. Is there any kind of water plant here, or do we have to actually go out and get it from a well?"

"What happens if we run out of food? You don't expect us to go out and really kill something, do you? And I don’t have the first idea about gardening."

"What do we do about homes? You can't expect us to all stay here in this place indefinitely."

"What do we do about power? Winters' coming, and we need heat for our homes."

"How about schools? Who's going to teach the children?"

They did their best to answer all the questions, but it seemed there was always one or two more. After what felt like forever, Alex excused the two of them on the excuse that Michelle needed to rest. As they started back home, Alex shook his head and told his wife,

"I've got to apologize to Dad."

"For what?"

"When I was growing up, Dad always had the answer for everything that happened, either good or bad. There was always something he could and would do about every situation. I always took it for granted. No matter what happened, Dad was always there, and would handle it."

"That's just being a kid, Alex. I did the same with my father."

"Maybe so, but I haven't changed, even after we got here. I believed Dad would be more than able to handle whatever. But after what we just went through, I think I have a better understanding of how tough all of this has been on him. And I never gave it a thought before this. I mean Dad has always been Dad. Do the job, do the best you can, and don't complain about what you can't do anything about. I never knew."

Michelle hugged Alex a little tighter.

"I think he understands. But it wouldn't hurt to let him know how you feel now."

"I think you're right." He looked up and smiled at her. "That's why I married you. You've got a good head on those pretty shoulders of yours."

"Other parts aren't too bad either, you may have noticed."

"I have. Believe me, I have."
 

day late

money? whats that?
Chapter Eighteen



Major Ferguson had taken Bobs' advice seriously. About half way through the mornings talk between Alex, Michelle and the new comers, he had slipped in, to quietly listen to what was said. Now he sat with Bob, and Maria telling of what he had heard.

"Bob, I just don't understand these people. Less than a week ago, they were either in hiding, or prisoners. Now they want police protection and all the civil services that were falling apart before the invasion. What is wrong with them?"

"Ever hear of a horse running back into a burning barn? Much as I hate to admit it, most people are the same way. In the back of their minds, they have always believed that one day things will return to normal. They haven't yet learned that from here on out there is no normal, except what we can make for ourselves. And even that will depend on the situation at the moment."

"Given the situation they were in, I just can't figure out what they are thinking."

"Ah, but that is the problem, isn't it?" Bob responded.

The Major looked at him, unasked questions plain on his face.

"Years ago, I was a really big science fiction fan. I recall reading one book where the author wrote something along these lines.

'Most people simply don't think. They prefer to stumble along through each day without a thought about tomorrow. Of the remainder, who actually can think, most try to twist facts to fit their own ideas of how the world should work. Only a small percentage actually do think, and do it accurately each time, accepting facts for what they are, instead of what they want them to be'.

And that is our problem. We have terrified horses, running back into the familiar setting, rather than accepting that setting has not only changed forever, but it has in fact become deadly to them."

Absentmindedly, Bob reached around, and tried to scratch the scar on his back. Maria, knowing that this meant that he was considering what he was going to ask The Father, walked up behind him, and gently took over the task.

"Thank you Dear. Still Major, they have a point. There is a lot to do around here. I can't think of everything, let alone try to get it all done. If you'll excuse me, I think I have to have a talk with The Lord, and find out what He wants me to do."

"Certainly Sir. I hope He answers soon."

"As do we all. As do we all."


Bob was awake and fixing breakfast the next morning, when Maria joined him. She knew he had an answer to his problem, by his cheerful whistling.
"So, what was it this time? A dream, vision, or visitation?" She asked, smiling at him.

"Good morning, my lovely. Tell me. Have you ever been reading The Bible and have the words just jump off the page at you?"

"Are you speaking literally or figuratively?"

"Figuratively, this time. I was reading about Moses last night. All of a sudden the answer was right there in front of me. You know Solomon had it right. There is nothing new under the sun. Everything that will happen already has happened."

"Bob, I'm always happy when The Lord shows you what to do, but sometimes, afterward, you're real hard to follow."

"Don't worry Honey, all will be made clear soon enough."

It took the rest of the morning, but by shortly after noon, everyone not working on a detail for the benefit of the entire community assembled once more at the front of the community center. Bob waited until he was sure most of the people were present, before he began to speak.

"Ladies and Gentlemen. Your attention please."

The crowd quieted in order to hear him.

"As we all know, our population has been growing well beyond our expectations. We have been blessed with a number of people in differing fields of endeavor. We've been joined by an engineer, a couple of electricians, carpenters, and others with useful skills. Believe me when I say that those of you who have these skills and others I haven't named are all most welcome here.

Now as we all can tell, winter will be upon us all too soon. I'm certain that we all have concerns about it. I know I do. Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm just one man. I want to meet and get to know you all, to find out what your needs are, and what can be done about them. But my time is limited."

"You've done alright so far Bob. All of us trust you to make the right decision." Came a call from the edge of the crowd.

"Thank you my friend, but how can I make the right decision for everyone, when I don't have the time to talk to all of you?"

"What do you have in mind Bob?"

"Look around you. We are no different than any other social group. We have done like anyone else would. We've begun to cluster in groups in which we have common interest. People from the southeast, gather together and talk about old times. It is the same for those from every region of the country. I suggest we divide ourselves into groups based on geographical origins. Then each group chooses someone from among them to sit on...well, call it an advisory council. The people of your choice will note your concerns, and then the council will sit with me to decide the best course of action."

"Excuse me, Sir. I just got here. I don't want to offend, but how can we be sure this council won't be just a rubber stamp for whatever you want to do?"

"A fair question, asked openly doesn't offend. The only thing I can think of is that none of the original group or of the military men will be able to sit on the council. I've already spoken to them about it and they agree with me. Council members will come from among you."

"What about you, Bob?"

"The Lord has chosen me to lead here, but he never said I couldn't ask for help. I'll sit as the head of the council, until such time as The Lord replaces me."

"How many councilmen/women or whatever do you think we should have?"

"I'm thinking six. One each, from the Southeast, the Northeast, north central, south central, Northwest, and Southwest. That seems to be a good place to start. We can always change it around later if we have to do so"

The talk went on for most of the afternoon. The people liked what they heard. Later that evening, Maria asked Bob a question.

"Are you sure you're doing the right thing?"

"If not, I'm in good company. Moses did the same thing in dealing with the Children of Israel. I guess it'll work for me. I know it will lower my tension level. Now I only have to deal with six people, instead of one hundred and sixty."

"That must be tiring. How could you do all of that without losing your mind? I mean all those complaints, the attacks, these new patrols, and who goes on them. I'm glad at least some of that stress is off of you."

"Well, we'll have to see what happens, but at least I won't be trying to answer every little thing that comes up anymore. A lot of that will be done by the council members, and they will only be bringing me the important things."

"Well, that's good. I think you need to spend more time with family. Especially now."

"Uh oh. What did I miss?"

"Kathy says she thinks Mike is going to have twins."



The good thing was the master wasn't angry. The bad thing was he wasn't pleased. Ives knew that he had planned to eliminate most of the people in this country. Now that the population had been reduced by nearly fifty percent, he was at least satisfied with that progress. What he was dissatisfied with was the fact that by now, he had expected all of those followers of the Nazarene, those monkeys, to all be dead. That hadn't happened yet. Ives knew that the Nazarene had been helping them. And now, with the first snows of winter threatening, and very few vehicles available to track those apes down, progress would be slowed even further.

That had him worried. How would he eliminate them, when his people couldn't move because of the weather? On the other hand, when he found any of their hiding places, like the one in the mountains, he knew that they wouldn't be able to move either. That would give him the chance to get his people in position before the weather lifted, and they could escape. Perhaps that would keep the master from punishing him. But to make sure, he needed a plan to deal with them, when the chance came.

Then he remembered. The Russian troops that had invaded from Canada, and stalled out during the summer months, they could be diverted to the mountains and still coming in from the north. They were used to and trained in winter fighting. They would be able to get through the mountains, even in deep snow. All that was necessary was to leave enough troops to keep the Americans in the Mid-West tied down, and move the rest into an area they knew how to fight in.

He began to call for weather reports. He had to make sure of when those people were snowbound, and have his men in position to take advantage of the situation.




When the men of the Special Forces arrived, Bob thought it wise to inform them of the underground room at Todd's' house. After looking it over, the Major decided that the best idea was for him to move into Todd's' house, but to keep the room a secret from the rest of the people in town. He was sitting in the living room, when Bob knocked on the door.

"Afternoon Major. Have you got a minute?" Bob asked.

"Anytime. What can I do for you?"

"First of all, I want to thank you for all you've already done. You've saved our bacon more than once, since you've been here. And that is why I came. With winter coming on, what do you see as the biggest problem we have, militarily speaking."

Ferguson pointed at a military type radio in one corner of the room. "I've been listening to that. From what I've been able to pick up, we don't seem to be in any immediate danger from the west. American forces actually are making progress towards pushing the Chinese back into the Pacific. Not much, mind you, but some." He smiled. "It would seem that Director Ives may have some explaining to do. What is that old saying? 'The best laid schemes of mice and men oft times go awry'. Ives called for men to go to Carson. They went in droves. Now it turns out they became decent soldiers in a pretty short time, and the Chinese are paying for it."

He paused for a sip of coffee, and then continued.

"Speaking of the Fort Carson area. They've still got a lot of men training down there. They aren't ready for action just yet, but it is only a matter of time. We need to keep an eye on them. We still have men patrolling to the east. While the number of men going to Carson seems to have slowed, we can't be sure of that. It is possible that the warning sign that Lieutenant Busby put up is still keeping them away from us. I say that because we still run into men moving towards Carson from time to time.

What has caught my attention is to the northeast. American forces have recently started making gains in the border area between North and South Dakota. Again, not much, but they are making progress. What I've found disturbing is when they over run a Russian camp, as they have done."

"I'd think you'd be happy about that."

"Normally, I would. But as you've said, nothing is normal anymore, and never will be again. The thing that bothers me is after they occupy the camp, it looks like there are far fewer enemy soldiers there, than there used to be. They have found places where there used to be tents, and such, but now it is just empty ground."

"You think the Russians are being moved somewhere else."

"Yes, I do. The question is where are they going, and why?"

"So what are you thinking?"

"There are two possibilities. First they are moving eastward, in a flanking move trying to get around the Dakota lines. But that would require boats, since they'd have to cross Lake Michigan. Trying to do that is inviting disaster. Shore batteries on the American side would make short work of them. The other option is that they are moving westward. Trying to break out somewhere in the Rockies. If that happens, we could be in trouble. The Russians are excellent mountain fighters, and they are accustomed to fighting in deep snow. Look at what they did to Hitler."

"Is there any way you can find out for sure?"

"Right now, all we have to go on is radio intercepts. And frankly, I can't sit at this thing all day long and just listen. There are still men and women that need training."

"What would it take to train people to take a turn listening for activity?"

"A couple of years, I'm afraid. It takes awhile to learn Russian, and that is going to be our best chance to find out what they're up to, and we may not have that long."

"What about listening to American outposts along the border? If one or more of them were to suddenly drop out of contact, wouldn't that tell us something?"

"It might. But it could also be nothing more than equipment failure. Like I said, listening to Russian transmissions is our best bet. One thing you have to remember is that unless they give a town or something a code name, the name comes though the transmission sounding like it should."

"You also said we can't do that. Major, for the first time, I'm giving you an order. I want you to get the number of people you think it will take, and begin training them on radio operations, and what to listen for."

Ferguson looked at Bob and smiled. "I thought that is what you would say. They begin training tomorrow morning."

“Very good. I see you have it well in hand. So, I'll stay out of your hair. Right now, I have to let people get into mine. The first council meeting starts in about twenty minutes."

"Want an armed escort?" Ferguson joked.

"Not this time, but hold onto that thought, I might want them in the future."



The lunch counter at the general store had been chosen as the meeting place for the advisory council. By the time Bob arrived, three members of the council were already seated. Soon after he got there, the remaining members got there. He noticed the group was evenly divided between men and women, three each. Once everyone was in a seat, Bob addressed the group.

"Friends, before we get started, I want to go over the ground rules, so we're all on the same page. This council IS NOT here to get answers to every little piddling problem your groups might have. You are here to advise me on major concerns that the people have. The kinds of things that affect the welfare of the entire community are our concern. What do I mean by that? For example, if your neighbors have a problem with a little old lady that feels two A.M. is the perfect time to pull out her trombone to practice for the concert next Monday, you deal with it. We are here to deal with more important issues."

"You mean we have to handle problems too?"

"That's right. Welcome to the frying pan. If you are unwilling to take on this responsibility, then call your groups together and find someone who will. But, for now, what do we have today?"

"Wait a minute. What authority do we have?"

"You were chosen by the people. That gives you the authority within your group. Now, who wants to go first?"

"I will, if nobody minds." Foster spoke up. Everyone remained silent, so he continued. "Brother Bob, right now we don't really have a problem, but winter isn't far off. What happens if it is a hard one? The wells around here might just freeze solid. What do we do about water?"

"My wife is a native of these parts. I think you should talk to her."

"No offense, Bob, but what would she know about it? I mean they had electricity back then."

"I'm sure the people who used to live here had to face this before. Winter storms have taken down power lines more than once. She'll know what to do, and advise you on how to get it done."

"I'll look into it."

"Good. Next problem?"

"Brother Bob. Some of the people around here don't think that they should be called on to hunt for food or grow it either. They believe that should be a job for someone else. What about that?"

"The Apostle Paul once said that if a man doesn't work, then neither should he eat. I think that applies in this situation. If they aren't willing to kill and butcher their food, then they better get started on green houses and putting in a crop to see them through the winter. Understand, Ladies and Gentlemen, we must pull together if we are to stand any chance of getting through the winter, let alone the rest of the Tribulation. Anyone that doesn't feel like they should do their share needs to find someplace where someone is willing to take care of them."

"Brother Bob. I don't think that's quite fair. There are some people that do jobs that help out all of us. There are a few women around that I know of, that used to home school. I've talked with Sarah Timmons, and some of the others. They are willing to start some kind of school for the children, so you can't expect them to drop everything, grab a gun and run off into the bush. Not to mention that lady doctor we have"

Bob looked surprised. "You're right. I didn't think of that. Alright, how does this sound. Anyone not engaged in some activity that benefits the entire community will be expected to hunt. Not just for themselves, but for the ones that can't go hunting. The teachers, Kathy, the doctor, and anyone else whose duties are more important than just simple make work."

Words of approval went around the table. They were starting to like the ideas presented. One of the women chose this moment to voice a private concern of her own. One which had been bothering her since she first found out about it.

"Brother Bob, What do you think we should do about people that,..well...aren't really suited to be members of our community?"

"I'm afraid I don't follow you."

"You know. People that aren't, well, good people. Ones that say might have been involved in something illegal before coming here."

"Ma'am I'm afraid you are going to have to be a bit more specific. Just who and what are you talking about?"

"Alright, I shall. There is a woman here that before this, was engaged in the sex business. I don't think we need that sort around here."

"Do you mean she was a prostitute?"

"Well, yes, but I just didn't want to say it."

"In this town, there are eighty women and sixty men over the age of fifteen. We have no money of any sort, and all commerce is done by barter. I find it hard to believe that any woman could make a living in that profession. Are you certain that she is still doing this?"

"Well, no. I can't say I know that she is still working, but you know that type. Once they are that way, they never change."

"Truthfully, no. I don't know that type. I've never employed or associated with prostitutes. And I won't ask how you know about them. However, this is a serious matter. Have the woman brought to me here, tomorrow at nine in the morning. I will ask for a few witnesses to be present, and I will question her."
 

day late

money? whats that?
Anna Rodgers walked into the general store at shortly before nine A.M. as she had been told. When she entered, she saw four people, two men and two women. The older man she knew was the head man around here. Bob was his name she remembered. She also recognized the doctor that had looked her over when she first arrived in the town. The second woman she didn't know, but she looked to be a girl really. The only face she knew that she thought might be friendly was that of the Lieutenant that had rescued her and the other women from the 'whore wagons' as she thought of them.

"Please come in and have a seat." Bob told her. "There is one more person coming, and then we can begin."

"I don't know why we are even bothering with this." Anna said. "We all know why we're here. Just go ahead and get rid of me, that is what you want to do, isn't it?"

"Miss Rodgers, before yesterday I'd never even heard your name. Now why don't we wait another minute or so for the last member of these proceedings to arrive?"

Just at that moment, Mrs. Molton came through the door. She had clearly taken time to put on makeup, and in a time and place where women's clothing was on the more practical side, she found a dress for the occasion.

"Mrs. Molton. I'm glad you could make it." Bob said. "Since you are the one who has brought this charge against Miss Rodgers, for the sake of everyone here would you repeat it?"

"Certainly." She said stiffly, and then pointed at Anna. "This woman doesn't deserve to be in a town with decent people. She is a prostitute. She'll corrupt the moral fiber of everyone she comes in contact with. She should be banished. That's my vote. Banish her and any others like her you find."

Anna was about to speak, when Bob beat her to it.

"Mrs. Molton. You seem to be suffering from a misconception. You don't have a vote on this matter. First of all, you are the one who has brought the charge, and your own words show that you have tried and convicted her already. And now you are ready to execute the sentence. That hardly seems to be the right thing to do, based on one persons opinion. You are here, only as a witness to the truth of the charge you have brought, if any. You are not here for any other reason. Do I make myself clear?"

"What do you mean I don't get a vote? You told us just yesterday that we had to make choices about how things are done around here. I certainly should get a vote about this."

"As I said, you are mistaken. Your job as an adviser to me is to take responsibility for things within your group. That is not the same thing as making the tough choices that affect the entire town. That is what The Lord put me here to do. Now please, calm down, and let us begin."

"Wait a minute. You mean that I can't have any say about what happens to this harlot?"

Bob dropped his head and sighed. Then he looked at her again, and spoke.

"Mrs. Molton. We are trying to determine IF any action should be taken, and if so, what that action should be. Right now you are trying to take over these proceedings, and run things your own way. I will not tolerate that kind of behavior. You shall not be allowed to usurp the authority that was placed in my hands. What is more, if you do try to run this show again, I will ask Lieutenant Busby to escort you from here, by force if necessary, and you will only be allowed to return if and when your testimony is called for. Do I make myself clearly understood?"

"I still want to have my say."

"You can want whatever you please, for now just be quiet and let us get this unpleasant business over with."

Bob turned back to Anna. "Do you know why you have been called here today?"

"I think so. You want to condemn me for my former profession, and get rid of me."

"That isn't quite accurate. I believe that in all arguments, side A says one thing, side B says another, and the truth is usually somewhere in between them. Would you please tell us about yourself?"

Anna thought for a moment. There was something about this man. Something that made her want to trust him. "I'll tell you the truth. I thought about coming here and giving you a song and dance about the poor little girl who was abused and forced into that line of work. I could have made you believe it too. Making people believe things is part of what I used to do."

"You see!” Mrs. Molton exploded. “She admits it. We don't need to hear any more, just get rid of her."

Bob shook his head, and then said more to himself than any of the others, "Some people just refuse to learn." he looked at Lieutenant Busby. "Would you escort Mrs. Molton outside, and have one of your men hold her there, unless and until we call for her? Then bring yourself back here."

"Yes Sir. Mrs. Molton, will you come with me?"

"You can't do that. I have a right to be here."

"You've forfeited that right by trying to disrupt these proceedings and run them to suit yourself. Take her outside."

Busby grabbed Mrs. Molton by the arm and half dragged her out the door. She was stammering and sputtering all the way. A few moments later, he returned, and took his seat.

"I'm sorry for that outburst Miss Rodgers. Please continue."

"Where was I? Oh yes, I could lie to you, but I won't. I had a good childhood. We were very upper middle class. Some people called it border line rich. The summer I turned fourteen, my brother was sent to a posh boarding school, Mom was always busy with some excuse or other, and Daddy was always working. It left me with a lot of time, and nothing to do. Then the boy next door, of course, introduced me to sex. His name was Gerald. I found out something that summer. I liked sex, I liked it a lot. I liked Gerald too. We swore we would be married one day, so why wait? Two years later he moved away, and we never saw each other again.

When I started high school, it was just like the neighborhood, it was a border line rich school. That is when I found out something else. Many of those boys were willing to pay me for having sex with them. I didn't ask for it, they just did that, and give me expensive presents. Turns out I liked that as well.

By the time I started college, the boys were willing to pay even more than in high school. Since I liked it, and the money, I thought, why not? Everyone got what they wanted, and everyone was happy. I didn't see any harm. I don't know when or how it happened, but one day I woke up with lots of money, lots of things, and living the good life. And I was miserable.

Then one day I met a man. Curtis wasn't interested in having sex with me, but he was very interested in me. Well, my soul at any rate. I'd never met anyone like him. He was teaching me about Jesus, when everything started to happen. He had to go home, to take care of his parents, he said. That was the last time I saw him. I didn't forget him, or what he was trying to show me about God. I kept studying on my own during the day, and working at night. Then one day, I knew I just couldn't keep going on like that. One thing or the other had to go. So I gave up my profession.

Then the day came when being a Christian became illegal. I still had many powerful and rich contacts. Some of them even offered to take care of me if I would just give up my faith. I couldn't do it. The next thing I knew, I was in one of those 'whore wagons' headed for Fort Carson. I'd lost everything, but it didn't matter. I had Jesus. That was all that was important. Then, next thing I knew there were gunshots, and the Lieutenant and his men came out of the bushes, and now, I'm here.

So, that's it. Now you know. Yes, I was a prostitute, but no more, and never again. Do what you must, I won't change my mind."

Bob cleared his throat. "Miss Rodgers, may I ask you to wait outside while we discuss what we've heard?"

"Alright." She left, her head held high.

Bob looked at Barbara. "What do you think?"

"Mr. Bob, I don't even know why I'm here. What could I tell you?"

"Barbara, you are the only one here with any knowledge of that life. I know it wasn't your choice, or you fault, but I believe your insights would be helpful."

"I believe her."

"Why?"

"I wasn't really a believer when I was brought here. I knew about Christianity, but didn't really believe. I do now. I feel the way she does about some of the things she said. Like the last part. I'd never go back."

"Thank you. Kathy what do you say?"

"Did you notice how from the very beginning she referred to her profession in the past tense?"

Bob nodded.

"If she were still doing it, she would have probably slipped up somewhere. She didn't. I believe her."

"That's two. Lieutenant?"

"Sir, I was watching her eyes. She looked right at us. She didn't try to hide them. You know what The Bible says, the eyes are the windows to the soul, and I believe her."

"Very well, that makes four. I believe her as well. Would you ask both ladies to come back in please?"

Mrs. Molton was the first one to return. She stormed in, and sat in a huff. Anna walked in behind her, and sat on the other side of the room.

"Miss Rodgers, I guess the only thing I can say is welcome to our community."

"You're joking! How can you welcome this...this harlot into our town? Have you gone mad?" Mrs. Molton stormed.

"Mrs. Molton. A harlot in Jericho saved the Hebrew spies sent by Joshua. A woman caught in the very act of adultery was forgiven by our Lord, Jesus. There are many other accounts in scripture where people that we might not think of as being of high moral fiber, were changed forever by our God. Even tax collectors were changed by Him. We believe that this is the case here. Miss Rodgers has shown every sign of being a sinner in repentance. We all agree she should be given a chance. If you don't like that, I'm sorry. Sorry for you that is. Sorry for someone with such an unforgiving heart.”

Feeling like she had just been insulted worst than at any other time in her life. Mrs. Molton stood, and with a dramatic flair turned and stormed out of the room.

After watching her leave, Bob spoke again.

“Miss Rodgers, We do welcome you. However you must realize that there are going to be some people that aren't too happy with that idea. I offer you three choices. First, you may stay with the group you are currently in. Second, you may try making your way in another group, knowing everyone there will know everything that has been said here today. Third, you may choose to leave this town, in which case we will do everything we can to help you find another place to live, and help you get there."

"Do I have to decide right now?"

"Of course, not. It is a big decision. Take your time."

"Thank you. Thank you all, for having faith in me."

The door suddenly opened, and the Major came in.

"Bob I hate to disturb you, but there is something that needs your attention."

Anna looked at the Major. Her eyes grew wide.

"Gerald? Is that you?"

Ferguson stopped dead in his tracks and stood still at the sound of Anna’s voice. At the same time, his head snapped around, and he looked at her.

"Anna? Is that really you? I've missed you so much."

Anna looked at his uniform. "Have you?" She turned to face Bob. "I thought there were only Christians here."

"Anna what are you talking about? Of course I've missed you. I've always wondered what became of you." Ferguson said.

"You're in the Army. The Army is hunting down Christians and either capturing them, or killing them."

"Miss Rodgers." Bob spoke up, "Things aren't quite what they appear to be. You, above all people, should understand that."

"Okay, I'm listening."

"Anna do you remember this?" The Major reached for his wallet. He reached in and pulled out half of a penny. "I still have mine. Do you?"

Anna remembered. Just before Gerald had moved away, he had taken a penny, and cut it in half. He gave her the other half. It was something to remember him by. Something to show that they hadn't forgotten what they had meant to each other, all those years ago. She reached into her shirt, and pulled a chain out that had two things hanging from it. One was a cross, the other was a half of a penny, circled in gold and hanging by a loop.

"I remember. But I don't understand."

"Miss Rodgers, if I may." Bob said, "The Major and his men were given a choice. Give up their God, or give up their rank. They choose to side with God. He is still an officer, just not with the U.S. Army. He serves The Lord, by helping us."

"How can I be sure?"

"Miss Rodgers. I realize that all of this is a bit much to take in all at once. I will tell you that I don't believe in coincidences. I believe The Lord has it all under control. Think about it. What are the odds that Major Ferguson, Gerald as you've called him, and you would even be here? And yet you are. Clearly there is much to think about. I suggest that you spend the next couple of nights with my wife and myself. We have a place just down the road from the Major. It will give you a chance to think, and for the two of you to get reacquainted."

"I don't know. So much has happened since then. Maybe we aren't meant for each other."

"Then why did you keep the other half of the penny?" asked Ferguson.

She smiled at him. "You know what they say, hope springs eternal. Alright. I'll do it."

"Good, now that that is settled. Major, what was it that you wanted?"

"Oh. I almost forgot. We've picked up some radio traffic you need to know about."
 
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day late

money? whats that?
After the meeting had broken up, Bob and Major Ferguson went to the Majors' home. When they entered, Bob was happy to see a half dozen people listening to various radios, or to Lieutenant Busby, as he explained what was needed.

"So, what do we have, Major."

"It's nothing concrete, but look here." He pointed to a map of the Canadian and U.S. boarder region, on the wall. "We know that certain Canadian stations are working with the Russians. Because of their lack of security precautions, we believe they are civilians that have been put into service by the Russians. Sometimes they say things that a professional wouldn't. From that, we can get an idea of what is happening up north.

Now we picked up a transmission a few days ago from a station we know is broadcasting from the Winnipeg area. They talked about a need for large amounts of supplies that needed to be ready for a near future operation. We thought, at first, it would be another push into the Dakotas', but nothing happened. So we kept listening for any other such announcements. Yesterday we got an urgent call for large amounts of water purification equipment over here, in Regina. That's nearly three hundred miles to the west." he smiled and said, "It seems some dirty rotten Americans did some pretty bad damage to their water works."

"Hmm. That would indicate that you were right. They are moving a major force to the west. Any thoughts of where they might be headed?"

"Again, nothing concrete, but there has been another call today for large numbers of tents and heaters, over here." Again he pointed to the map. "This is a place called Medicine Hat. If it was me, at this point, I'd divide my force, and send half down this way into eastern Montana, and the other half over to a place called Lethbridge. From there, they can come down through the western central portion of Montana into the Rockies."

"Why would they divide their force? It would seem to me that a larger force would almost guarantee success on an operation."

"That would depend on the size of the force, and the nature of the operation. We haven't gotten anything about the size of the force that is on the move, the only indication is that it is pretty big. Given that, we have to move on to the second question. What are they planning? Since we know that it is a big force, they will try to get as much out of it as they can. Once a force of any size manages to break through the lines, they can raise all kinds of trouble in the enemy rear, and cause an entire section of the line to collapse. But this seems to be large enough for that along the Dakota lines, with plenty to spare. So, what else could they be up to? It would make sense to me that they would move down into the plains, and eastern portion of the Rockies.

Once they get into the plains, they can move fast, and cover a lot of ground in a short time. Kind of like the German blitz in WW II. If they do that, they cut off major food resources to the American forces, and disrupt their lines from behind. Not only along the Dakota front, but perhaps all the way down to Colorado Springs, and Fort Carson. Should they manage to pull it off, we are pretty much done for."

"What do you think we can do about it?"

"As a fighting force goes, nothing. There simply aren't enough of us to do anything except die. However, I think I still have some people that will listen to me in the Dakotas. I want permission to try to contact them, and warn them of what I see coming?"

"How would you contact them?"

"It would almost have to be face to face, which is why I wanted to talk to you. I know, I know. It is a big risk, but if I were the person I'm thinking of, I wouldn't believe a voice over the radio, would you?"

"No, I suppose not. What if you are captured?"

"That won't happen."

"Major, there is no way you can be certain of that."

"True, but I've been on more than one long range patrol. I know what I'm doing." He paused, looked Bob in the eye, and spoke again in a very calm and clear voice. "Bob I've been doing this for a long time. I've forgotten more about this line of work than most people know. At least I've tried to forget it. If it comes to that, I assure you, anyone trying to capture me will pay a very high price for their effort. I will not go quietly."

Bob nodded, understanding his meaning. "I guess there is only one thing left. I suppose you are going to pray long and hard before you leave."

Ferguson smiled. "That is standard procedure before every mission."

"Well, we'll be praying for you until your return."



The blizzard that had suddenly blown down from the north had slowed the Russian advance, but not halted it. Director Ives knew it was the work of the Nazarene. Most of the American scalar weaponry had been put out of action by this time. What they had left was used only sparingly, and then against the east and west coasts. That was O.K. He would show that Nazarene that he was someone to be taken seriously. The Russian commander had reported that they would take between three and four more days, before they were in position to the southeast, and southwest of Lethbridge to begin the attack. That would put them two days behind schedule, but since it was before the attack actually began, that was acceptable.

Just as long as they didn't slow down again after they started until they had made a minimum of four hundred miles. That would put them well below and behind the Dakota lines, and force the Americans to weaken their western lines by diverting men away from there, to meet the new threat. Then the Chinese could stop retreating, and take the offensive again. With the Americans caught in the cross fire of the wedge shaped area they would still control, they would have to fall back, or lose a large portion of the Army they had left. Not to mention the bonus of taking control of certain weapons and munitions plants that were operating in the mountains.

Soon, he thought. Very, very soon, and America would be a foot note in the history books. He felt so good about the plan, that he decided to take the night off, and enjoy himself. He called his secretary, and ordered a suitable girl be brought to the estate he had taken over for his personal use. It was nice there. Nobody around for a couple of miles to hear the girls' screams, except his servants. But they wouldn't say anything. They always enjoyed his leftovers so much.


Major Ferguson waited in the dark, near the agreed meeting place. His contact wasn't easy to convince, but eventually he did it by reminding his contact of the past. Once he had gotten near the Dakota line, he then started to send out a signal on the military radio he had with him.

"Blacksnake, this is Viper Three. Come in."

A voice came back to him from the radio, "Unknown station, Blacksnake is no longer a valid I.D. Please consult your C.E.O.I."

"I know it is no longer valid. I'm trying to contact someone from Iraq."

"Wait one." There was nothing but static for a few moments. Then the voice came back on the air.

"Unknown station, how did you get these identifiers?"

"I told you. They are from Iraq. There is someone who used Blacksnake in a previous operation. I need to speak with him, A.S.A.P."

"Wait one."

Shortly the radio came to life again, this time with a familiar voice.

"Viper Three, if you are who you claim to be, identify yourself."

"I pulled your backside out of the fire down by the river in Fallujah."

"Viper Three, I remember. Good to hear you again. What is on your mind? Over."

"Sensitive intel. I need a face to face with you. Over."

What followed was a discussion about where, when, and how to meet. Now he waited in the dark. As he did, Major Ferguson couldn't help but think about the day before he'd left. He remembered the conversation that he and Bob had, had.

"What about Miss Rodgers? Do you plan to just walk away, without a word?"

"Oh no. We'll have some time to talk. But lets' be honest Bob. We haven't seen each other in over a decade. If anything happens to me, she won't lose much. I've been out of her life for a long time."

"Right. Sure. And that's why she kept a half of a penny around her neck for all this time. You must have made quite an impression."

"It was young love Bob. Do any of us ever forget our first true love?"

"I guess not."

He and Anna had spent many hours talking as he gathered the things he would need on this patrol. He wasn't shocked at her former profession. He'd been places, and seen things in his career that would leave most people speechless. He was a bit surprised that Anna had taken up the profession of her own free will, but such things were not unknown. He was also a bit surprised when she didn't have many questions about his life in the service.

"Gerald, I've known a few men from the service. Some of them needed real help and others, well, they didn't sleep well at night. I've heard enough from them that I think I have a good idea of what happened to you. I know I've heard enough that I don't want to hear any more, unless you need to talk about it. I'm a very good listener."

He didn't need to talk about it. He'd made his peace with God long ago. He rarely had nightmares anymore. But that worried him sometimes. What kind of man was he becoming?

He stopped worrying about it as he heard a vehicle approach. Ducking a little lower in his hole, he pulled the Mylar blanket closer around his head, to avoid giving off a heat signature that could be detected with the proper equipment. The Hummer stopped at the agreed place, and the engine was turned off. The Major waited. Shortly a man got out of the passenger side, which told Ferguson that the man wasn't alone. He walked around to the driver’s side, and spoke with the driver.

"Any sign of him?"

"No Sir. I think we are all alone out here."

"If this is who I think it is, you won't see him, until he wants you to see him. Sergeant, take this thing half a mile back down the road. Wait there for me to call."

"Sir, I'm not real comfortable with that idea. Maybe I should just hunker down in the seat and wait with you, just in case."

"Sergeant, if this is who I think it is, he already knows you're here. I'll be fine. Just do as I told you."

"Yes Sir."

The vehicle started, then slowly turned around and moved back down the road. The officer looked around in the dark, and then paused to light a cigarette. It glowed brightly in the dark. Major Ferguson waited until the cigarette was finished, knowing that even the small amount of light it gave off, could be used to illuminate him in the night. Shortly, the officer tossed it to the ground, and crushed it out.

"Alright, Ferguson, if it is you, the cig is finished. Come on out."

Quietly Ferguson stood, and moved towards the other man.

"Just being careful."

"Always a good idea. So it is you. What are you doing here, and where have you been?"

"Major Grimes, I've been on a listening post, out west of here. I have information that the Russians are trying to flank you in a 'Hail Mary' like we used in the first Gulf War."

Grimes eyes widened slightly. This was clearly news to him. "It's Colonel now. What gives you that idea?"

Major Ferguson explained everything he had learned to Colonel Grimes, as he had done to Bob, and a couple of other things he had picked up before he'd left. He finished, and waited for Colonel Grimes to speak. When he did, it took Ferguson a little by surprise.

"Last I heard you were dismissed from service for being a Christian. Why shouldn't I shoot you where you stand?"

"Two reasons, Sir. First of all, you would lose a potentially valuable asset on your western flank. Second, that has been tried before, and I'm still standing."

Grimes smiled at the Majors' frankness. He found it refreshing. "Very well, why should I believe you?"

"What do I have to gain? I've already told you that I'm to your west. What is my benefit from bringing you closer to my area of operations? Another reason is that, yes, I'm a Christian. I'm also an American, and I have no love for the idea of my native land being overrun and occupied."

"Alright, Ferguson, I'll have my men check this out. If it is true, I'll cover your back, this time. If you come across any other intel you think I should know I'm now Black Goat. From here on, you are Angel One."

"Don't take too long in checking it. From what I've heard, the only reason the operation hasn't started yet is the blizzard that blew in from the north. As soon as it clears enough, they will be on their way."

"Ferguson, do you know why I came here tonight?"

Again, Major Ferguson was caught off guard by the question. He answered.

"I was wondering."

"You know I have no love for your people. But you have always been straight up with me. So I have to tell you something. I'll do what I can for you if this pans out, BUT, should we ever meet on the field, I'm going to do my best to kill you."

"I wouldn't expect less. Neither should you."

Again, Grimes smiled at his honesty. "I won't. Good luck to you."
 

day late

money? whats that?
Chapter Nineteen


The blizzard lasted three days longer than expected. Ives was very unhappy at the delay. At least he couldn't be blamed for that by the master. He had no control over it, outside of the temporary control of scalar weapons. Weather like this was totally controlled by that hated Nazarene and His Father. He knew this to be true, because it had taken the lives of three of his scientists to prove it to him. It was so unfair that He had so much control over things like this. What was Ives expected to do against such opposition?

On the good side was the fact that the weather had also slowed the American advances against the reduced Russian troops along the Dakota front to a crawl. With winds like they had, their remaining aircraft hadn't been able to do more than a few harassing sorties. Even the artillery had been affected. The Americans weren't able to get a satellite fix on Russian positions, so the firing had almost stopped.

Of course the storms had prevented him from getting up to the minute fixes on the Americans as well, but there was no reason for them to suspect this change in plans. Besides as long as they were still having some small success on the front, they wouldn't be looking for this little surprise.

Finally, the Russian commander reported enough of a break in the weather that the advance could begin, even without the satellites. They would just do it the old fashioned way. Roll forward, and over, anything that got in their way. Ives agreed and gave the order to advance.

The Russian units moved out, having been assured of only light resistance. They started into both eastern, and the western central portions of Montana. While there were mountains, they weren't as bad as the ones further west. The Americans called them, most suitably, The Rocky Mountains. The advance went well for the first couple of hours. The only resistances were a few small bands of civilians, and they were crushed in short order.

The eastern flank of the advance had made its way into a broad valley. The lack of trees in the valley made the advance roll on much quicker than if it had been heavily forested. As the skies cleared above them, they took it as a good sign, and continued to move to the south and southwest.

On the western flank, things were almost as easy. They did have a few more mountains and valleys to deal with, but things were going well.

The secretary trembled as he knocked on the Directors door. It wasn't good to bring this kind of news to him.

"Come in." He called out almost joyfully.

"Sir, we have finally gotten the latest satellite imagines for you. I was told to bring them without delay."

"Bring them over here." He said as he sat at his desk.

The secretary laid them on the desk, and was looking for a way out before the photos touched it. Ives bent over the pictures, hoping to see large numbers of dead, both American and Russian. That would certainly please the master. After all, once the Americans were dealt with, he wouldn't tolerate a vast Russian Army that might oppose him. The smile quickly faded from his face. This couldn't be. He had to do something. And he had to do it NOW!


"Is everything ready?" Colonel Grimes asked his second in command.

"It’s just as you ordered, Sir."

"Send them to Hell."

"Yes Sir."

The major gave the order. Artillery pieces that had been stripped from the Dakota front, for this operation, opened fire on the eastern flank of the Russian advance. At the same, hundreds of miles to the west, aircraft came up over the mountains while hugging the ground as close as they dared. At the last moment, they pulled skyward. As they continued to climb, the back of each aircraft opened, and large bladders were expelled. Once they reached their predetermined distance from the ground, the M.O.A.B. bombs began to explode.

As the fireballs from the explosions began to fade, a second wave of planes came over. With the element of surprise now gone, they flew over as high as they dared, while still having any hope of hitting their targets. Soon their bombs were also exploding over the Russian forces.

"Sir." The major shouted to Colonel Grimes over the noise of the artillery on the eastern flank.

"What is it?"

"Observers report there are so many enemy vehicles burning they can no longer direct artillery fire in the valley."

"Have they reported any enemy vehicles leaving the area?"

"No Sir."

"Shift fire. Start at this end of the valley and walk it forward. Cover the entire thing."

"Yes Sir."

The spotter aircraft for the attacking Americans in the west, was having similar problems, but with a different end. What Russian tanks, trucks, armored personnel carriers, and even soldiers on foot, that could still move were making their way back the way they came, as fast as they could go. He reported it back to Grimes by radio.

"Have the third and fourth waves wait until they have all entered the valley, and then expend all remaining ordnance on them." Was his order.


Ives couldn't believe it. How did they do it? They didn't have a clue. No sign of the plan had been leaked. How did they know? He sat in his office, cursing the Nazarene with all the hate he had.




Anna was in the kitchen with Maria, talking when Bob walked in looking for breakfast. He heard Maria speaking.

"I know he is a good man. But you'd have to ask Bob about most other things. Those two are as thick as thieves as far as anything else goes."

"May I presume that you ladies were speaking of Major Ferguson?" He asked.

"Morning sleepy head. Did you know it is almost eight thirty?"

"No, but thank you for telling me. Good thing there isn't anything pressing this morning. Good morning, Anna."

"Hi Bob. Yes, we were talking about Gerald. I was wondering if he was, well, interested in any of the other women around here."

"Not to my knowledge. However he is a bit closed mouthed about anything personal. I didn't even know his first name, until you showed up. I just addressed him by his rank. He seemed happy with that, and never offered his first name, so I never asked."

"So you don't know."

"I know this much. He has never been seen in the company of any of the ladies around here, and has never asked me personally about any of them."

"Bob, this isn't anything 'pressing', but you need to speak with Kathy."

"Oh, is there a problem?"

"I don't know. There could be."

"I'll see her right after breakfast. Now do I get something to eat, or do I have to go out and kill it myself?"

Maria placed a plate of food in front of Bob, and then said to Anna, "MEN! What would they do without us?"


As he had said, Bob went to see Kathy first thing after he had eaten. She invited him in, and asked him to take a seat.
"So, what's going on Kathy? Maria seemed to think it was important."

"Yes, she could say that. Tell me something Bob. When you found out that Mike was expecting, you said that you questioned the wisdom of bringing a child into the end times, do you still feel that way?"

"Much as I hate to say it, yes, I do question the wisdom of it, but that is something that those kids have to deal with."

"Bob.” Kathy almost sighed, “It's not just them."

Bob never noticed that he passed five different people that wanted his attention as he raced home. He burst through the door with a loud "MARIA!" on his lips.

"So, she told you." she answered.

"Yes, but why didn't you?"

"I wasn't sure how you'd feel after what you said to Alex and Mike."

"Feel? Maria I love kids. I couldn't be happier."

"What about the whole end times thing?"

"I don't care. You are having a baby. MY baby. Lord, love you woman, I can't find the words for what I'm feeling. Are you alright? Come on, sit down, you need to rest." The words tumbled out of his mouth almost before he could form them.

"Bob, RELAX!” Maria laughed. “I'm only a few weeks along, not an invalid. This isn't the first time for me you know."

"Yes, yes, of course I know. I'm just...well you know. But how did this happen?"

"You should know. After all, you had something to do with it."

"No, no, I mean I thought that you were old enough that you were past all that."

"I'm not that old. But if it means anything, I thought I was past it too. I guess you never know. I thought you'd be upset."

"Upset? Maria, I couldn't be happier than I am right now. Don't you know how much I've wanted this? I know, I never said anything, but if you couldn't, then why make you upset? Girl, I could walk on the moon I'm so happy."

"So do I break out the bubbly?" Asked Anna, from the other room.




Director Ives wasn't happy at that moment. On the other side of the door was the messenger from the master. He knew the master was unhappy with his recent performance. The Russians had lost thousands of men and hundreds of machines in the recent defeat. The Americans on the other hand hadn't lost a man, and only one of their aircraft had suffered minor damage.

"The master is very displeased with you." the messenger said as he entered.

"I know that I've failed him. All I can offer is that I was up against the Nazarene. He prevented the satellites from picking up the American troop movements, until it was too late to do anything about it."

"At least you are bright enough to know who your enemy is, not like that idiot Claire. He thought he was only up against these monkeys. What are you going to do about this situation?"

"Please give me some time. We've only just recovered most of our stragglers. I need time to come up with a new plan."

"You have forty-eight hours, starting now. It would be best for you if you don't fail again."

"Thank you. And thank the Master for me for his generosity. I'll come up with something."

After the messenger left, Ives sat down to go over the situation once again. The Russians had not only failed to gain any ground, they had taken heavy losses in both men and equipment. They had also lost ground to the Americans in the Dakota’s on top of it all.

He poured over the maps on his desk. Whatever he was going to do, it had to be done quickly. Not just because that is what the master required, but also because at this moment, the Americans had obviously stripped their lines of men and weapons, in order to pull off the counter attack. That gave him a window of opportunity that he had to exploit. Then he saw it. The weak spot he had been looking for. When the Russians had moved their men and equipment to the west, they had left reserve units near Fargo, North Dakota. Instead of having them move westerly to re-enforce the lines, he would move them eastward. He picked up the phone and gave the orders. He would salvage something out of this mess. He’d still have his freedom at least.




"So, you question the wisdom of bringing a child into these times, do you?" The voice came from behind Bob as he was already working on changing one of the rooms of his house into a nursery.

"Hello Alex. I was expecting you to come by and rub my nose in it." Bob replied. "But you aren't going to get my goat today. I'm in too good of a mood to let anything spoil it."

"I'm not trying to ruin your day I'm just enjoying the irony of it. I think its cool myself. Mike is having a good time with her Mom. You should hear those two."

"Oh, I'm sure I will. What do you think about having a baby brother, or sister?"

"I think it's about time. Why didn't you and Mom have any other kids?"

"That was something that was her choice, but to be fair, I agreed with her. I told you before that she never had morning sickness. In fact, her entire pregnancy went rather smoothly. Up until the last month. You see, when a woman's' abdomen gets stretched out that far, the skin begins to itch a lot. While for your mother, she itched from the soles of her feet, to the crown of her head. Poor woman was in torment. We tried everything. Ointments, creams, lotions, everything you can think of. None of it helped. The only relief she got was the shower. I'd wake up a two in the morning, and hear it running. So, after you were born, she informed me that there was no way she was going to do that again. Honestly, I couldn't blame her. I will say that later in life, she regretted the choice, but it was too late for her to try again. I've often wondered how different our lives would have been with another child or two."

"I guess we'll find out. You do realize that you are going to be a grandfather before you're a father again."

"Actually, I've been too busy to think about it. That's a strange one. Our wives will most likely raise our children together. Yet the younger one will be the aunt or uncle to the older one."

Alex laughed. "How do you manage to get yourself mixed up in these strange kinds of things Dad?"

"I don't know, Son. I'll tell you one thing though. It certainly keeps life interesting."



It took another three days for Major Ferguson to get back from his mission. By the time he made it, everyone in town had heard of the 'Battle for Montana' as it was being called. What surprised him the most, was the fact Anna was waiting just outside of town, when he came pulling up in Bobs' pick up.

"Don't tell me you are thinking leaving us?" Was the first thing he said.

"I was waiting for you actually. Mind if I ride with you?"

He opened the door wide. "Please. Climb in." Instead of heading into town, Ferguson drove slowly and took the long way around. "Have you decided to stay?"

"At least for now. Lets' face it Gerald, there are going to be a lot of people with wrong ideas about me, even after everything that's been said. I'm sure there are people with nasty little minds that have been making up things about Maria, Bob and me since I've been staying with them."

"You're probably right, I'm sorry to say. Don't worry about them. I've found those kind of people usually shoot themselves in the foot, sooner or later. Then, only the other narrow minded people will listen to them. Even then, the others will try to prove them wrong, just so that they can 'prove' that they are right."

"Maybe so, I just wish there was something I could do about it."

"Maybe there is. I'd say that you just find some kind of job around town that will put you in contact with other people, and just be normal. The talk will stop soon enough."

"Gerald? I have to ask. What about us?"

"Is there an us?"

"I don't know. I think it's been a long time, and we've both changed a lot. Do you think there could be?"

"Why don't we just take it slow and find out. Not push it, just get to know each other again, and see where it leads."

"I think I'd like that."

"Me too."

The Major reached over and took her hand. When she looked at him, he realized they were both smiling. Ferguson pulled the truck up to the shed where Bob kept it, and shut off the engine. Before he could get out, Alex came up to him at a trot.

"Major! You need to see Dad right away."

"What's the rush? I just got back."

"The Russians have broken through the American lines, and are on the move."
 

day late

money? whats that?
Anna followed The Major, as he entered the general store. Bob looked up and said, "Welcome home Major. I wish it was under better circumstances."

"Alex was a little short on details. I thought the Russian force in Montana was in a full retreat."

"They are. A route actually, but somehow, they are making major advances in the east, according to the radio."

"Where are they, and where are they headed?"

"Near as we can tell, they started moving southeast from somewhere near Fargo, North Dakota. They seem to be headed to the Mississippi River. Best information we have puts them on the move, going down I-10 headed towards the former city of Brainerd. Do you have any idea why they would do that?"

"It makes sense. They could kill two birds with one stone. The northern part of the state would be trapped between the Russian army, and the Canadian border. Secondly, if they make it to the river, they have a passageway right through the middle of the country. I'm sure you remember the Mexican and Cuban forces were trying to come up the river. At that time, the Russians were stopped cold in the Dakotas. Now they've finally made it, and they still have the force to make it to the gulf. If they can do that, the country is done for."

"Let me guess. The people in the mountains on the eastern side of the country will be between two armies. Meaning they will have to retreat, in order to avoid capture or death. Do you think the Russians still have enough of a force to accomplish something like that?"

"Depends on what kinds of forces have been brought in, and how many of them there are. Not to mention that by now, the Cubans and Mexico have had enough time to rebuild most of the forces they lost. They won't be as experienced, but they will be just as numerous, or nearly so. While we haven't been able to train any more soldiers. I don't count the ones that went to Fort Carson. They have most likely been deployed by now, filling up the gaps in the line with warm bodies if nothing else."

"It sounds like you believe they could take everything east of the Mississippi."

"As much as it hurts me to say it, yes I do. What do you think would be our best course of action for the future?"

"Right now, all I can think of is to pray from a miracle."




Director Ives was now starting to feel better. The Russian forces had at long last broken through the American lines. His first objective was to get them to the Mississippi River. Once there, re-enforcements would come down through what used to be the Great Lakes, And into the river. Before the New Madrid earthquake that had proven to be the undoing of Claire, That wouldn't have been possible. Then have them advance on both sides of the river. Once they reached the area near the former city of Dubuque, Iowa, then instead of striking into the center of the country, they would move towards the east. At that point, the American forces in the northern Appalachian Mountains would have no choice but to retreat to the south. That would put the entire northeastern part of the country in his hands.

The master would be pleased with that, and perhaps, he would finally prove not only his worth to him, but also the fact that he should have been put in charge of the destruction of this country from the start. The only real problem he had was getting across the river. Every bridge that had once crossed the river was either gone, or totally useless, being actually under the river due to changes in the landscape from the quake.

Still, he could deal with that later. Right now it was most important that the next set of orders out.

Once the Russian forces had reached a point just east of Moorhead, they followed Ives orders and divided themselves into to prongs. One of them headed east for Detroit Lakes, while the other moved southeast towards Fergus Falls. Between them, they had continuous heavy patrols, in force. It gave the appearance of being a much larger force. Because of that, the military and civilian population had no choice but to leave before they arrived. The Russians were not taking any chances. At the first sign of any resistance they simply crushed it. Even a dog barking at them in the street was shot on sight.

They made advances exceeding even their hopes, after the fierce fighting they had been encountering from the beginning. On the first day of the advance, they had managed to make almost thirty miles from Moorhead. By the end of the second day, they had not only reached the lakes located between Detroit Lakes and Fergus Falls, they had nearly encircled them. Noon on the third day, had the two prongs of the attack once again sending patrols between them and the advance continued, unopposed.

It was at this time, Director Ives had the answer to his problem. On the Canadian side of the boarder, there were many cargo transports that hadn't been damaged in the quake. Many of these were flat bottomed vessels with powerful engines, or just barges. The flat bottom was important. They could make it through the areas that had remained flooded after the quake. These areas had many obstacles just under the surface of the water. Soon, the men sent to join their comrades were on their way downriver.

The men on the boats stayed close to the western shore, and avoided any small arms fire from the eastern bank that they could. They still took casualties, but the number of them was quite small. It was near noon on the fifth day, when the two forces met. With fresh men coming down from Canada, both through North Dakota, and down the river, the corridor they had cut through Minnesota remained open, and the land occupied.

Americans north of that line, in Minnesota and Wisconsin, were panicked to get out. Some tried to sneak though the Russian line. Some made it. Most died in the attempt. Some tried to run south, and beat the Russian advance. Many either waited too long to leave, or underestimated how long it would take on foot, and were trapped behind the line. Others took to the waters of the Lake Michigan, trying to reach the state of Michigan. Again, some made it, by crossing at night, without the aid of lights, and by following the stars. However, many were caught in the attempt. Most of them were turned back by Russian patrol boats. If someone in any of the escaping boats were foolish enough to open fire on the Russians, the boat they were in, and any nearby, were immediately sunk and the survivors were shot while still in the water.

The real tragedy came when the refugees started to reach the opposite shore in large numbers. Their fellow Americans, being already short on food and other necessities themselves would turn them away. Any who failed to leave peaceably were forced at gunpoint, or shot if they refused to leave.

Director Ives was becoming more and more like his old self as the advance continued. He was cheerful, and could often be heard laughing while he sat in his office. Even his secretary was no longer afraid to get near him. When he got the report of Americans shooting each other, Ives became bold enough to request a meeting with the messenger of the master.

"Why do you summon me?" He asked when he arrived.

"I wanted you to inform the master of the success I have achieved in the plan. The destruction of this country can only be a short time away."

"Fool. Don't you think the master keeps his eye on all of us? He knows of your recent gains. He also thinks that what you are doing now should have been done long ago. You are fortunate. He has shown patience with you, mainly because you have made some progress. But after what happened in Montana, he nearly replaced you. This advance is all that kept him from it. And don't be so confident in yourself. The Nazarene defeated you once, only using these monkeys. Imagine what will happen if He lends a direct hand in this."
Somewhat subdued by the messengers words, Ives spoke again.

"Of course, you are right. I should have remembered the master watches over us all. Forgive my rashness. It was simply my happiness over making progress towards putting him on his throne."

"Never send for me again. When the master wants you to know something, I'll be back."

After the messenger had left, Ives decided that the next phase of the operation needed to be started. He issued orders that all Russian forces not currently engaged against the enemy in the Appalachians were to withdraw to the coastal areas for resupply, and rearming, before they would exploit breaches in the lines created by the forces coming in from the west. Once that was done, they would move to the north, and take control of any areas not yet under his control. And there was no need to take prisoners.

He smiled broadly as he thought of the coming slaughter. Let that Nazarene try to stop him now. There wasn't anything He could do about it. His men would be in complete control of the entire northeast within two to three weeks.
 

day late

money? whats that?
It had long been the habit of Bob, Maria, Tim, Kathy, Alex, Michelle, and Major Ferguson to get together every week to ten days, just to talk about things. On this occasion, Anna had also joined them.

Maria looked at Bob and with a mischievous gleam in her eye asked.

"So, Bob. What's the matter with you? Aren't I enough woman for you?"

Bob choked on his coffee, sputtered a moment, and asked,

"Maria, what in Heaven’s name are you talking about?"

Maria chuckled and said, "Oh, it's Mrs. Molton. Since you allowed Anna to stay, that woman has had nothing nice to say about you, me, or Anna. Not to mention that women outnumber men around here, by almost two to one. I think she believes you're starting some sort of sexual retreat for the men."

"Well, as you know, it wasn't just me. There were four people on the panel that made the choice. And we all agreed. How she can blame just me, I don't know."

"That's easy." Anna said. "You're the one that tossed her out of the hearing, so naturally it is all your fault."

"Talk about circular logic. Some people I'll never understand. I wonder what she is going to say when the numbers get to seven to one."

"Seven to one?" Tim asked.

"Sure. Remember what is written in Isaiah?

Isa 4:1 And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.

That brings up a couple of other things. Major, I'd like it if you could start selecting women you feel are suitable for combat training. Michelle, you are the martial artist, I'd like you to begin working out how to teach everyone in that group what you know."

"Bob, I'm not exactly in the condition to be teaching that kind of thing right now."

"I know, but you won't be pregnant forever. After the baby comes, and you've had a chance to recover, I think it wise to begin such training."

"Why is that, Bob?" Kathy wanted to know.

"I'll take that one." Ferguson said. He looked Kathy in the eye, and seriously said, "Kathy, women will outnumber men seven to one. The Bible says it, so it WILL happen. So you tell me, where did all the men go?"

"Oh. I see. You think that there is going to be more fighting around here, and while we will win, the price will be high."

"That's what the scriptures indicate to me. Maybe I'm wrong, but I'd rather err on the side of caution than not. Bob it's a good idea. I'll get started on it today."

"Bob I think you're making a mistake about Mrs. Molton." Anna said. "I've known a lot of people like her. Once those kinds of people get their teeth into something, they don't let go. She will be a thorn in your side from now on."

"What would you have me do, Anna? Banish her because she chooses to be unpleasant?"

"She won't get any better you know."

"I know. Still, there is little I can do about it, without proving what she is most likely saying is correct. I'd bet she is playing herself up as the victim. Talking about how I didn't avail myself of the benefit of her sage advice. So, obviously I must be some kind of evil person, because I didn't give you the heave-ho. Unfortunately, to do anything, without a real cause, will play into her hands, and gain her allies. We don't need that kind of trouble."

"Would it help if I moved out, and into a place of my own?"

"It might, it might not. As you know, she has already made up her mind about you, and about me as well. You move out when you're ready, and don't let her push you into anything."

"You could move in with me." Major Ferguson said.

"No, Gerald. I don't think I should. Who knows what she would say then, and anyway, it wouldn't be right. Not without being married."

"I just thought I would offer. Alright, have it your way."

It was later that night that Alex and Lieutenant Busby were on patrol on the outskirts of town. It was getting cold, and the first flurries of snow were starting to work their way south, after the blizzard that had cost the Russians so dearly. They were taking a break, as Alex quietly told Busby about what his father had said.

"Seven to one, you say. I can't imagine it. I mean there are some nice looking women around here, but I can't believe that any of them would be willing to go in for that kind of thing."

"Yeah, I know. Mike didn't seem too happy with the idea."

"Well, I'm not going to worry about it, until it happens. Guess it's a good thing I haven't found someone special yet." Suddenly his head turned towards the darkness outside of town. Listening intently for a moment, he signaled Alex to get down.

"Something's moving out there." he whispered.

They looked down into the valley. A horse drawn wagon was moving down the road towards them. Shortly they heard a voice softly call, "Whoa." and with a pull on the reins, the horse stopped. Three men got out of the wagon. Silently Busby signed Alex to move to the right, as he moved to the left, to put the strangers in a crossfire position. Then He and Alex waited in the dark. After a long period of time Busby looked out on the black landscape, he saw the three people moving towards them. They didn't seem to know that the two of them were there since, while they moved quietly, they made no effort to try to conceal their presence.

Busby signaled Alex to remain quiet and low, and as they came close, he challenged them.

"Halt." His voice suddenly seemed loud in the dark. The trio stopped in their tracks. Alex could see them trying to figure out where the voice came from. One of them slowly reached for a pistol.

"Don't! You'll never make it." Busby called out.

The last man in line hesitated. Then started to reach for it again, and Alex wracked the action of his shotgun.

"The man said don't. It would be a good idea to listen to him."

This time the man stopped, and raised his hands above his head.

"Drop the weapons, and step away from them." Busby ordered. Three gun belts hit the ground, and the men backed away from them slowly.

"That's far enough. Anyone care to tell me what you're doing out here?"

"We were sent here."

"By whom, and why?"

There was a brief whispered conversation between the three, and at last the one who seemed to be the leader said,

"There's only one way to find out." He looked in Busby’s direction and replied, "We were sent by Michael. We are looking for someone named Bob."

Busby thought how that sounded good, but how to be sure?

"What does this Bob person look like?"

"I don't know we've never met."

Alex spoke next. "What about that Michael guy you mentioned?"

"Um, He's an angel. Big fellow, white robes, commanding personality, you don't tell him no, that's for sure."

Director Ives was less and less pleased as each day passed. His plans were going well, and that was what made him uneasy, after the defeat he suffered in Montana. When things seemed to be all going his way, it had to mean the Nazarene was up to something. But what, he couldn't figure. He was especially disturbed by the loss on satellite communications that had recently happened. He couldn't prove it was the Nazarenes' doing, but the timing was suspect. Then again, satellites were known to fail, for any number of reasons. Still it made him uncomfortable.

One thing that had brought a few smiles to his face was the fact the Russian breakthrough had gone better than expected. They had almost reached Dubuque. It was about time to have them turn east, and then attack the stubborn resistors in the Appalachian Mountains from behind. Doubtless they would know the Russians were on their way, and they would be caught between two armies. They would have to either retreat, or die.

It was also encouraging that the Mexican and Cuban Armies had refilled their ranks, and even now were in the process of launching waterborne landings along the Gulf coast. Soon they would once again be in position to move up the Mississippi River, and eventually meet up with the Russians coming down the river, according to the original plan. And this time, there wouldn't be anyone to take the credit, as Claire would have.

First thing in the morning, he would order the Russian forces on the coast to begin preparations to move inland again, for the next advance.

Unknown to Ives, far across the Atlantic, there was a deep rumbling coming from underneath the island of La Palma. The locals knew what it meant. They had started leaving the island and other nearby islands, en masse, when it became clear that the rumbling wasn’t going to stop. Tremors had shaken the islands for a couple of days now, and there were an increasing number of rock slides coming from the volcano, called Cumbre Vieja.

Once they hit the shores of Africa, they continued to move inland, many, many, miles. They knew they didn't want to be anywhere near the shore, when the volcano blew.

Just before nightfall, it did blow. A fault line on which the volcano was sitting let go at the same time. The resulting earthquake shook loose a massive section of the island. It was over a mile long. It slid into the Atlantic and the displacement of water started a chain of events that no one could stop. The landslide from the eruption traveled over 35 miles from La Palma's coast, causing the formation and then collapse of a dome of water 3,000ft high and miles wide.

The tsunami that resulted hit the African coast within an hour. It had a height of over 300ft from crest to trough when it crashed into the shores of nearby north-west Africa.

Within five hours it would reach southern England and within 12 it hit America's east coast. What was left of New York, Washington DC, Boston and Miami and most of the eastern seaboard, were almost wiped out by the tsunami generated by the insecure rock falling into the Atlantic.

Since it had traveled at night, and with the satellite out of service, the Russian forces on the coast were largely wiped out, along with the cities. The island of Cuba was devastated. The wave that slammed into it was large enough to inundate all but the highest areas on the island nation. Florida was all but completely washed away. The Mexican Gulf coast was hit almost as hard as Florida.

Nobody ever found any trace of the invasion fleets. It was, of course, far too late to do anything about saving any of the men along the coasts, or in the Gulf of Mexico, by the time Director Ives woke in the morning. Within a half of an hour, he found himself in need of a new secretary. The old one didn't stand up very well to his wrath.



Bob, Major Ferguson, and an even half dozen men, carefully climbed down the slope towards Lieutenant Busby, and Alex. They had called in the three strangers after they made certain that they weren't hiding any further weapons. They hated to wake him, but it was standard procedure not to allow anyone to just waltz into town before checking them out.
By mutual agreement between them, once they reached the spot, Major Ferguson began the questioning, and let these men believe whatever they wanted.

"Who wants to tell me who you are, and what you're doing here?" Ferguson asked.

One man stepped forward and spoke. "You're not Bob."

"I know that. Now, tell me something I don't know."

"We were instructed to speak with Bob."

"And those instructions came from where, exactly."

"I think I'll save my words for the one I was told to speak with."

"Fine. You don't want to talk to me, then head on down the road. I've got better things to do than stand out here in the middle of the night. Sleeping, for example." Ferguson turned on his heel, and started to walk away. Bob started to say something, but the Major caught his eye, and gave his head a slight shake. Bob remained silent.

"Alright." The leader called to him. "I guess I can give you the basics.'

Ferguson turned back to face the man and said, "That's all I asked for. We don't disturb Bob for things that aren't important."

"I'm Dennis Heath. These are my brothers, Barry, and James. We come from southern Montana. We were driven out by the Russians. We were told to come here by the angel Michael, and talk to the leader here. We need a place to stay, along with the others that have come with us."

"Well, Dennis. It is my understanding that the Russians were beaten back into Canada. So how could you be driven out by them?"

"Most of them were. Some of the survivors from the battle were cut off, and have banded together. They are raiding farms and homes in the mountains."

Ferguson thought about how it sounded plausible, and carried on with his questioning.

"What was this about ‘others’ with you?"

"We were living in a small town in the southern portion of Montana, in the mountains. When the Russians showed up they were demanding food, drink, and women. We managed to hide the women from them, for a day or two. Then on the second evening, Michael showed up to each of us and told us to get out of town. He said we were to head south and find Bob. After that, we do what he says."

"That's not exactly an answer to my question. What others?"

"We are fourteen men, and twenty seven women."

"I see three."

"We left the others about a half mile back up the road. We didn't want to take a risk with everyone."

Ferguson thought about it for a moment. "Why didn't you fight off the Russians? Or for that matter, why didn't you report them to the authorities?"

"There were too many to fight off. I'd guess about a company of them, with automatic weapons. And we couldn't exactly go to the authorities. We're Christians."

"Stay here." Ferguson ordered. He turned once again and started to walk away. He pointed at Bob and ordered, "You. Come with me."

They walked to the top of the hill, before either spoke.

"What do you think?" He asked Bob.

"I think we should keep them here until daylight, and then check out their story. It shouldn't be too hard to find almost forty people out here in the middle of nowhere. We'll try to check them, by having someone join them." He shook his head. "Twenty-seven more women. I can hear Mrs. Molton now."
 

day late

money? whats that?
Chapter Twenty


Unbelievably, Director Ives was grateful. The master understood that some things were not under his control. He also understood that sometimes the hated Nazarene did things that nobody could do anything about. This was one such case. He hadn't been blamed for the loss of the Russian soldiers along the east coast. And after all, the master was happy that more of the Americans were dead. Over all, a country that had started out with over three hundred million and was now down to about one hundred and forty million was something even the Master had to be pleased about.

Then again, the thing that bothered Ives the most was the fact that they were getting closer to that damned number that the Nazarene seemed to love so much. They were closing in on only ten per cent of the population. He didn't know why, but ever since the beginning, that Nazarene seemed to have some kind of thing about ten percent of the population. Every time Ives and his people moved against them, at least ten percent survived. It didn't matter where or when. Ten percent or more always got away. It was infuriating. That number had gotten out of Jerusalem in seventy A.D. when the Romans had leveled the city. Wherever they went after that, or even before, ten percent always got away.

Even in Germany in the nineteen-forties. So many of them and those cursed Jews had been killed. But some had escaped, ten percent of them as always. There was something about that number.

Well, he would show that Nazarene. Ives decided that the best way to prove Him wrong was to beat that number of ten percent. If he could only knock out enough of the followers of the Nazarene, so that the number fell below ten percent, then the Master would not only be pleased, but Ives knew he would receive untold rewards.

He knew the first thing he had to do was to slow down the American advance. Since the tsunami had so badly damaged the reserves in the Russian rear, the Americans had been taking advantage of the situation by pushing back the invaders, who no longer had the support they were used to having. After the disaster in Montana, the Russians were also losing ground in the Dakotas. Not much, and not very fast, but with the losses they had suffered, they were finding it harder and harder to hold on to what they had taken.

To make matters even worse, the fantastic advance they had made, first getting to, and then down, the Mississippi River, would have to be halted. They now had an extended front with very little in the way of support. They hadn't taken that many casualties, but resupply was becoming a severe problem. The original plan called for them to break through the American lines in the mountains, and be resupplied by the Russians on the east coast. Now, that was entirely out of the question. Most of those supplies had either been destroyed by the tsunami, or washed out to sea as the flood waters flowed back into the Atlantic. The northern Mississippi forces might still be able to break through the lines, but there wasn't anything there for them. In fact, they might have to lend aid, rather than receiving it.

This was not a good day. As he continued to study the maps, his mood became ever more and more foul. To give credit where it was due, at least his new secretary knew better than to disturb him as he worked on the problem, unless he had vitally important information.
At that moment, he knocked timidly at the Directors door.
"What?" Was all Ives could get out.

The door opened. "Sir, there is something I think you should see."

"For your sake, I hope it isn't more bad news."

"Actually Sir, I think this is something you might want to use in solving this problem. Or perhaps to, at least, amuse yourself."

Made curious by the statement Ives looked up from the maps for the first time. In the secretaries hand was a piece of paper. He recognized the paper as one that had come from the ones calling themselves 'space brothers', whom, Ives knew were in fact servants of his master in disguise. It had been their job to discredit all religious faiths, and they had done quite well at it. These monkeys were so easily impressed, and had so little understanding of the true nature of things. The secretary handed the Director a piece of paper.

As he read, his mind began to work overtime to keep up with the possibilities presented by what he read. There were endless possibilities here. It read;

From the Ascended Masters, returned to Earth.

To; The People of America.

It has come to our attention that because of the losses suffered by your people in this war, that your male population has been severely reduced.

It is not our desire to see the population of America reduced to levels from which they can never recover. It is our desire to see America become a strong and vibrant part of the global community, THEREFORE;

After much thought and consultation between ourselves, and those of our home planet, the female population of Earth is to be offered the opportunity to re-populate the American Nation by joining with us. We are willing to help any woman in this country who is co-operative conceive and bare any number of children that she may want to have.

Our medical sciences are just as advanced as the rest of our technology, and any woman who wishes it can be impregnated. It should be known that the amount of time normally needed for carrying a child, can be reduced by two thirds. Additionally, the amount of time needed to raise the child to adulthood would be more than equally reduced.

We can, and are willing to do this for your people. All that is necessary is for willing human women to receive our genetic material. We will help with the rest.

All women who are interested in this offer should report to the nearest landing site of any of our craft. All of our people have been notified of this plan, and are in agreement with it. They will help you, no matter where they, or you, are currently living.


Ives was taken by surprise that the master decided to play this card so soon, but could see how it fit in the overall plan. It was just like in the time of that monkey, Noah, and his family. That had been a very pleasant time. There was a lot to be said for these human women. They could be very pleasurable, he knew. Of course back then, they could only use seduction. But this plan would have them asking to be impregnated. After that, it was simple. Corrupt the human genome, and then the Master would defeat the plan of the Nazarenes' Father. In doing that, there was no chance that He could be in complete control. That meant that the Master would at long last win his throne.

Ives actually smiled.






It was decided that Lieutenant Busby and Alex would be the ones to find and make contact with the thirty-nine people that had been left behind.

"Let me come with you. I can make sure that everything goes smoothly." Dennis Heath had said.

"No offense, Mr. Heath. But I think that we will handle this on our own. After all, so far all we have to go on is your word about how things really are. And we don't know you." The Major said. "If what you say is true, then I'm certain you will understand. We are Christians, and we've met a lot of people that have claimed to be like us, but weren't. We need to make sure, before anything else happens."

"I understand, but tell whoever you send to be careful. We've had some tough times lately, and some of our people are a little trigger happy."

It was shortly after that, when Major Ferguson spoke with the two of them.

"Gentlemen, I think it wise to borrow a page out of Mr. Heaths' book. I want you both to leave your long arms here. Take only side arms with you. I don't need to tell you this isn't an aggressive action, but I want to stress caution. These people have been fighting the Russian forces for some time now. Busby, you know what that means, so make Alex understand."

"Yes Sir."

"Alright, get going. Try to make it before the sun comes up, but if you can’t, under all circumstances, be careful."

As Alex and Lieutenant Busby moved out, Alex questioned him.

"What was the major talking about with that fighting the Russians comment?"

Busby sighed, and simply answered, "The Russians take prisoners only when ordered to do so."

"What if you surrender?"

"They take prisoners only when ordered to do so."

"You mean they'd shoot someone who gave up?"

"Yes, I do. Alex, come down off the crest of the ridge. You are providing a perfect target for them."

"It's dark. I don't think they would see me, and it is easier walking up here."

"I'm sure it is an easier walk, but even in star light, you will show up like you wouldn't believe to someone with good eyes, not to mention night vision equipment. Come down here on the slope."

"Alright. So, why did we have to leave the rifle and shotgun?"

"It's real hard to attack people out in the open with just handguns. Long arms can reach out and touch them. This proves that we aren't trying to attack them.” Busby paused for a moment and then continued. “Lets' quiet down. I see something ahead."

As quietly as possible, Alex and Busby moved into a position to look down on the encampment. Busby was trying to figure how many people were there, in order to verify what they had been told. It wasn't possible. Certainly some people were asleep in the wagons down below, and he couldn't be sure that there weren't any guards posted. He turned to Alex and said,

"Alright. It looks okay. I think our best bet is to just make our way down there, and announce ourselves from a safe distance."

The sound of a shotgun wracking a round into the chamber came from behind them. A voice said,

"I think your presence is already known. DO NOT reach for your weapons."

Both Alex and Lieutenant Busby remained very still. Neither even considered reaching for their handguns. Then they heard;

"Get their weapons."

They were treated roughly as unseen men grabbed their pistols.

"Hey, look at this.” A voice in the darkness announced. “These are both Makarovs. Those are Russian pistols. We should just shoot them now."

"Jimmy, you have got to stop being so trigger happy. In case you haven't noticed, that AK-47 you are holding is Russian made too. Maybe I should shoot you."

"That's different. We know each other, but we don't have a clue about these two."

"And we won't if you go around shooting people before you ask any questions."

The lead man used the toe of his boot, to turn Busby over onto his back. Looking up, Busby was staring into the business end of a shotgun.

"Care to do some explaining?"

"A man named Dennis Heath said we'd find you here."

The one named Jimmy started to lose it.

"WHAT have you done with Dennis?" He demanded. Then he turned to the other man who had spoken. "You see. These two have done something to the brothers. We have to find out what they've done."

"Jimmy! Calm down. We don't know that they've done anything. They've been gone only about an hour. They couldn't have gotten far. Did you hear any shots? None of the rest of us did." He looked again at Busby. "I think you need to do some talking Mister."

"You're right in more ways than one.” Busby answered. “They didn't get very far. You can't see it in the dark, but their wagon is only a little over a half a mile down the road. They got out, and walked right up on top of one of our patrols. They are unharmed, but we held them in order to check out their story."

"That sounds reasonable. I'd do the same, but how can we be sure you haven't harmed them? That's the question." He looked at Alex. "What do you have to say?"

"There isn't much to add, except they sure didn't want to shoot anybody. Well, one of them started to pull a weapon, but he was persuaded not to do it."

"Which one?"

"I think it was the one named James. But I can't be sure."

"That sounds like him. How did you persuade him?"

"With a shotgun, kind of like the way you persuaded us not to reach for a weapon."

The leader smiled at that. "Alright. I'll buy that for now, but we seem to have a Mexican stand-off. You have them, and we have you. You say you came to check out their story. What did they tell you?"

Busby spoke up. "There are thirty nine of you here. Twenty seven of them are women, and you were lead here to escape the Russians."

"Okay, now I believe you have talked with them."

"How can you buy that? They could have forced them to talk." Jimmy demanded.

"Jimmy, will you stop talking stupid. Do really believe anyone could get the Heath brothers to say anything they didn't want to say?"

"I guess not. But what are we going to do?"

"I have a suggestion." Busby said.

"And what would that be?"

"It will be light soon. I'll lead any number of you back to where they are, and you can see for yourselves."

"Almost. You're a kind of big fellow. I think you will stay here under guard, and your partner here will walk back with Jimmy and someone else."

"Why me?"

"Because you are the one who has the itchy trigger finger. If you are right, you'll get your chance. If you are wrong, which I think you are, you'll have a chance to see for yourself just how stupid you've been."

"Stop calling me stupid."

"Then stop acting that way. If it was up to you, the Heath brothers would have been shot as soon as those people heard us shoot these two. As it is, we have every reason to believe they are alive and well, no thanks to you. Use your head, Jimmy. We out number these two almost twenty to one, and they come here with only pistols. Does that sound like they were planning an attack?"

"They could have been scouting us out. So they could come back later with more men."

"Jimmy, you give me a headache. If they were going to do that, then why were they talking about introducing themselves when we got the drop on them? Think boy, think. Don't just follow you first impulse. You'll live a lot longer that way."

It was almost an hour later, when Alex, Jimmy, and another man named Larry started down the road towards the wagon used by the Heath brothers. While the horizon was starting to show the first rays of light, it was still too dark to see very far. They hadn't gone far before Jimmy started again.

"They better be alright, for your sake."

"They are." Alex answered tiredly. He too was getting his fill of Jimmy's' mouth.

After a short distance further, Jimmy started to complain that he still didn't see the wagon, and occasionally would use his weapon to hit Alex in the back, to make him either move faster, or to 'behave' himself. Finally, it was Larry that interrupted Jimmy's' tirade.

"You know Jimmy maybe you should shout a little louder. Maybe they didn't hear you yet."

"You don't tell me what to do. You don't have any right to tell me anything. I'm tired of people telling what to do. And I'm not going to let this one start." He hit Alex yet again. "You hear that boy. You try telling me what to do and I'll hurt you."

That did it. Alex remembered something his father had told him while he was still in high school.

"Jimmy, do you know what the problem is with talking big like you've been doing? The problem is that sooner or later you're going to have to live up to those words."

"I can live up to them, and I'll show you."

Alex had been listening carefully for it. He heard Jimmy take a quick step forward to hit him again, and that’s when he moved. Michelle had spent a lot of time teaching him a few things, before her pregnancy. As Jimmy came at him, Alex dropped low and spun around with his leg outstretched. He caught Jimmy perfectly with the leg sweep, as it is called, and sent him toppling backwards. The rifle that had been in his hands went flying up, as Jimmy tried to regain his balance. As it came down, Alex caught it. Without even thinking about it, he immediately tossed it to Larry, with one word.

"Catch."

Larry did so, but with a weapon in each hand, all he could do was watch. Alex moved to the fallen Jimmy, and checked him. The fight was all gone out of him. He had hit the ground hard, and had the breath knocked out of him. Alex paused, and then looked at Larry.

"Sorry. I just couldn't put up with that anymore."

"Don't apologize. Do you have any idea how many times I've wanted to do something like that? Are you a karate expert or something?"

"No. That's something my wife taught me." Alex answered.

"Say what? Do me a favor. When we meet her, remind me not to make her mad. Is he going to be okay?"

"Yeah, he just had the wind knocked out of him, that's all."

A voice came from the hillside above them.

"Thanks for not hurting him too badly."

"Dennis? Is that you?" Larry called out.

"Alive and kicking. Or maybe I shouldn't say that. We're alright. They haven't hurt us. Matter of fact, we were on our way to meet you, when we heard Jimmy talking big again."

"Think he learned this time?"

"I hope so. Help him up."
 

day late

money? whats that?
Director Ives was once again becoming upset. The Master didn't blame him for the losses from the tsunami, but with the number of Russian forces on the east coast so badly reduced, the cursed Americans were starting to make serious gains against the remaining Russian forces. The east coast Russian army was falling back further by the day. In Georgia, for example, the Americans had retaken the land almost to the new coastline. Things were better organized in the Mississippi River valley, due to the fact there were more men. The retreat was slow, but steady. And they were still losing ground, no matter how stiff of a resistance they put up.

To make things even worse for him, Ives had been hearing rumors that the Russian government was beginning to believe that their losses were just too heavy. They were thinking of pulling out entirely. About the only men they had left, in large numbers, were guarding their boarder with China. And now in their weakened situation, it was believed that the Chinese might just take advantage of it, to expand their territory.

He also knew that if the Russians pulled out, the Chinese would find themselves in a bad situation. Without the forces in the east to tie them down, these battle-hardened veterans would be moved west, to battle the invaders there. And the Chinese knew it as well.

Ives had to come up with a new plan. He noticed the paper, given him by his secretary that was still on his desk. A new idea began to form in his mind. If he couldn't kill them all, he would breed them out of existence.

He called for the secretary.

The latest arrivals in the town were treated like all the others that had come. First they were sheltered in the community center, until they could be interviewed. It was here that Anna proved her worth to the community. Since she had the degree in business administration, Bob asked her to help in getting things organized. She set to work with a will. She was glad to have found something that she could do to help out.

Mrs. Molton eyed her suspiciously, and every time Anna turned around, there she was. At first it bothered her a little, but she took Gerald's advice, and forgot about her. Besides she was too busy to even care what the woman thought.

For her part, Mrs. Molton was busy asking questions of the newest arrivals about what Anna was doing. She became more and more frustrated as she got nothing but glowing reports on how helpful and well organized Anna had been. Never once was there any hint that Anna might be using her former trade to gain any kind of advantage. Each night, she went back to her home, and berated Anna to her husband. The man was wise enough to not say anything to his wife which she might think was in any way supporting Anna's position, and wondered as he often did, when this woman was going to talk herself into real trouble. He also wondered how anyone could be so slow to learn. She had bullied her way onto the advisory council, and that had lasted only until the first meeting. Once the people in her area had seen how she behaved once she was in power, they had gone to Bob and asked what to do about it.

"You put her there by voting her in, so it seems to me you can vote her out. There isn't any 'term in office' you know."

As it always happened when she got into trouble, she blamed others for her problems. He almost believed that she thought that woman she didn't like, was sleeping with everyone in his wife's group, in order to get his wife removed from her position.

Tonight, she was having a gathering of the few friends she had left, and the women agreed that they didn't want 'that harlot' around, but each of them had differing ideas about what to do about her. After listening for about half an hour, he stood and walked to the door.

"Where do you think you are going?" His wife's voice came angrily from the other room.

"You ladies seem to have a lot to talk about. I thought I'd go for a walk."

"Good idea. You aren't any help here."

He stepped out of the door to enjoy a quiet walk in the brisk night air. Soon, without planning it, he found himself at the home of Pastor Jim. He stood there and thought for a long time, then finally reached out and knocked on the door.


The Chinese forces were much more fortunate than the Russians had been. They didn't rely as much on high technology as much as the Russian forces and government did. They preferred to have people on the ground, giving real time reports about any given situation. True, this required a much larger spy network than any other government had, but the type, and timeliness information they received was well worth the expense and trouble.

It was for that reason that when the 9.5 earthquake happened in the Kamchatka Peninsula they knew well in advance that their forces along the west coast of America were in deep trouble. The good news, and for them, the verification of their time and trouble spent, was that they had time to do something to save as many of their men as possible.

They knew they had at least ten hours before the tsunami would begin to roll ashore in the Pacific Northwest. They ordered a complete withdrawal of their forces along the entire west coast. To them it was better to lose America, than the forces they would need for later plans that they had. Anything that would possibly slow the evacuation of troops from the coast was at first, off-loaded from the ships they had in ports all along the west coast. As time grew shorter, all un-necessary supplies and equipment were simply thrown over the side of the ship, in order to make room for more men.

The last of the Chinese ships left port an hour before the tsunami hit. They had saved over eighty percent of their men, and lost about ninety percent of their weapons and equipment. Still, they had more weapons and equipment back on the mainland. They could still field an army of two hundred million men, which would be more than enough to do what the Central Committee wanted to do.

For Director Ives, this wasn't good. But it wasn't a total loss. He knew that when the Chinese forces pulled out, the Russian forces, with their ever shrinking lines, would do the same. He knew as well, that both sides would claim victory because they had, between them, eliminated the United States as a world power. They had reduced the nation of over three hundred million to a third world country of somewhere around one hundred million. The infrastructure of the country was in total ruin, and it would take many decades before they could even begin to re-establish themselves as a self supporting country, let alone a world power. By then, the rest of the world would be in their control. That was good enough for people that made plans that took decades or more to come to fruition.

So now, what he had to do was to give his declaration to the American people, so the contamination of the human genome could begin. And by corrupting the human species, defeat the plans of the Nazarene and His Father.

BY ORDER of THE DIRECTOR of The Western Region of the United States, Be it known;

Our friends, and the true creators of the human race, have offered to help in the re-population of this nation. To date, only a small fraction of women that are of child baring age have come forward to accept this help. Due to the extreme nature of this emergency, I am assuming the authority, given to me by the United Nations, to use whatever means are needed to guarantee the re-population of this land. Starting on this date, all single women of the American Nation, that are above fifteen years of age, will begin to report to the landing ships of our creators, in order to do their honorable part in solving this problem.

No woman that is already married is required to take part in this action, unless they choose to do so after consulting with their husbands and family members. No woman above child baring age or girl too young to safely bare children is required to take part.

However as girls become of age, they will report to the landing ships to take their place in this noble venture of the re-population of America. Women chosen to bare this next generation, this generation of Star Children, will be cared for by our creators and their every need provided for. And I assure you that the rewards for your sacrifice and the rewards to your families will be generous.

The snow had been falling gently for a couple of days. There weren't any real drifts yet, but the weather didn't show any sign of breaking any time soon

Linda had seen the release from the Regional Director. She didn't like it. She hadn't seen fit to allow any man or boy to touch her up to this point in her sixteen years, so why should she allow some....thing from another planet to do so?

She was glad she had spent so much time learning how to take care of herself in the wilderness. She was skilled with both skis' and snowshoes. She knew how to ice fish, and make a shelter when needed. She knew the art of the bow and arrow, as well as how to make them, if she had to do so. The art of snare making was no mystery to her. She was not afraid to do what was needed to kill, clean, butcher, and cook an animal. She knew that her parents and friends thought her more than a little strange for pursuing such things, but when the food shortages started, her parents were glad to have the extra meat she provided.

When she first heard of the directive, she started to make her plans. Over time she had hidden, a short way from the house, both skis and snowshoes. While she hadn’t been able to get her hands on any kind of firearm, everything she needed to make a bow and arrows was hidden away as well. She had also, bit by bit, taken small amounts of food, from their allotment, and stashed them away as well.

Now here she was, in her bedroom for what she knew was the last time. She knew that she wouldn't be sleeping in her bed this night, or ever again. But she still didn't know where she was going to go. She would have to trust in the God she had been reading about.

If her parents knew that she had been reading a Bible that she had found, they would have gone crazy. So she kept it a secret. All she knew for certain was that the more she read the more of what she read made sense to her.

"Linda." Her mother’s voice came from outside the room. "What are you doing?"

"Hi Mom. I'm getting ready to leave."

"May I come in?"

"Sure Mom. Come on in."

Her mother entered. She smiled at her daughter.

"I'm glad to see you accepting all of this so easily. I know there are some people that are resisting this opportunity."

"Opportunity, are you serious? It sounded to me more like an order."

"Oh sweetie, that is just the way people in government talk. Just think of it. You have not only the chance to help repopulate this country, but also you can be one of the first women to have a 'star child'. Isn't that exciting?"

"I suppose so, but I'm not so sure. I mean, you and Dad always told me that I should save myself for my husband. So what happened? Why should I do this now?"

Her mother came close to her, and put her arms around Linda, lovingly.

"Darling. That was before all of this happened. Things are different now."

"Different how?"

"Honey, I wish I knew how to tell you. You'll understand when you get older."

"What do you mean? I'm old enough to have one of these 'star children' but not old enough to understand why? What kind of nonsense is that?"

"Trust me, Honey. You'll understand."

"I guess you're right. I'll find out. It isn't like I have much choice."

Linda's' mother smiled at what she believed was her daughters' acceptance of what was to come. She was also happy about the expected rewards to come from her daughters' sacrifice.

"Trust me, baby girl. It is for the best."

With that, she left Linda to her packing.

Pastor Jim had listened to the concerns of Mr. Molton. He had even gone so far as to make forgiveness the subject of the next three sermons. He had gone to great effort to point out how Jesus had spent so much time with harlots and other people that were so looked down upon in His time on earth, and even now. He noticed how Mrs. Molton sat and listened to every word he spoke. And he heard how not one single word seemed to sink into her mind. She continued to look for reasons to slam the woman named Anna. She was even going so far as to make up things from her own imaginings without one shred of proof. When asked for proof, she would only talk about things that 'everyone knows'.

The thing was that it seemed that only Mrs. Molton knew, along with her very few friends. Pastor Jim was at a loss for what else to say.

One evening after church, Mrs. Molton and her friends were once again gathered in her living room. Tonight, the subject wasn't Anna, but rather the Pastor Jim.

"Can you believe the way he has been trying to justify her being here these past few weeks?"

"I know what you mean. It's like that witch has put him under some kind of spell."

"I hardly think so. After all, she would have had to put so many other people under a spell too."

"You don't think that is possible?"

"I'm not saying that. But I think it is more likely that she has just deceived them all. I don't know, of course, but I think that fooling a lot of people has got to be easier than putting them all under some sort of demonic spell. That's all."

"Well, maybe you're right, but what are we going to do about it? It seems like we are the only ones that realize what a danger she is to our community. How do we make others understand that?"

The women were at a loss about how to handle the situation.
 

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As the snow continued to fall, Linda waved good-bye to her parents, and walked into the night. While they believed she was headed off to be the mother of one of the first star children, but she had other ideas.

After about ten days, Linda was happy she had left when she did. She had been able to pick up pieces of information, here and there. She had found a newspaper one time. Another, she had to hide from some armed men that had set up a road block right over her head as she had been sleeping under a bridge. She had listened intently to both their radio and their conversation.

From what she had learned, things were not going well for the women that had failed to make it to the various landing ships on time. Director Ives had actually sent out trucks with armed men on them or following behind them. Any woman or girl that couldn't prove that they were either married already, too old, or too young, were loaded onto the trucks, and taken away. Any men foolish enough to try to stop the wide spread kidnappings were executed on the spot. It didn't take long before all resistance stopped, and the suicides began.

Many women wouldn't be forced into some kind of sexual relationship with a creature from another planet. No matter how much they looked like regular men. But Director Ives had been ready for that one as well. A new directive had been issued. One that stated the family of any woman or girl, as unpatriotic as to kill themselves would also be killed. Unless the husbands, brothers, or fathers had needed skills for rebuilding the country. It that case they would be used as slave labor for the rest of their lives. However long that might be, under the circumstances.

Linda wondered about her parents, and younger brother. Her father had been wounded in the war, and couldn't really do anything anymore. Her brother was too young to be of much use either. She was fearful for her mother. She might be in her forties, but she was still able to have a child. If they killed her father because of Linda's disappearance, who knew what would happen to her? Then again, her mother had been all in favor of baring 'star children' from the start. So she might even volunteer to take Linda's' place. Especially if it meant having the lives of her husband and son spared.

She could make a good guess about how her father would react to that. He had been married, with children, when the fighting had first broken out. Like his wife, he was in his forties as well. He didn't have to go to war. But he was the sort of man who would do whatever he had to do, to protect his loved ones. It was protecting the men he was serving with that had gotten him first, wounded, and then out of the war. Linda knew he wouldn't stand for his wife to do something like that, for any reason.

The more she thought about it, the more she became convinced that her father was most likely dead. Her mother was by now being a host mother, and it didn't matter if it was by choice or by force, she was by now pregnant. And what of her brother? He was all of twelve years old. She didn't know about him. Would they force him into some kind of labor camp, or did they just kill him? She couldn't guess. Things had changed so much in such a short period of time, even for her.

She remembered things that used to be so common, that now were rationed, or nonexistent. She had loved going to the mall with her friends. She loved having friends for that matter. Now, everyone was out for themselves. Nobody trusted anyone anymore. People turned on each other merely for a few scrapes of food. She missed the grocery stores with shelves lined with so much food and other stuff that you had to spend an hour in there deciding what to buy. Very few stores were open anymore. The ones the government kept, at least partially supplied, were guarded by armed men, who had cold eyes.

It was because of men like those that she had decided to not go into any town. Twice in the first day she had to move quickly to avoid those kinds’ men. Once she had been just at the edge of town, and had just put on her snowshoes when a couple of men came by in a car. She'd run into the nearby woods as they came closer. She'd heard the car stop, and listened for a moment to see if they were going to follow her. She heard one of them speak.

"Oh, hell no. I'm not getting out in this to go chasing someone off into the woods. You do it."

She didn't hear the other man, but the car started up again and pulled away. She breathed a sigh of relief, and then thought to say a small prayer of thanks to the God she had been reading about.

Now she was sitting in a shed used by farmers as an emergency shelter. It was mostly useless now, since they had lost most of the animals to the war effort. She felt safe here for the time being. The snow had kept coming and going for the past week so her tracks were not to be found. And this far out in the country, it was unlikely that anyone else would be out this far. Especially, in this kind of weather.

She adjusted the wick on the old fashioned oil lamp she'd found, and settled back to read some more of the Bible. Some of the things she read, at first glance, didn't seem to apply to her. This book had promises of help and protection when you needed them. If that was true, why was she here in this shed in the middle of nowhere?

Then she thought about the men in the car, and realized protection could come in many forms. Sometimes, she supposed, it could come in the form of something as simple as people changing their minds about something. As she thought about it, the wind started picking up. She looked out the window, and could tell the snow was getting heavier. She thought about how lucky she had been to find this shed before the storm had started to get worse. Suddenly she remembered how she had just had a feeling that she needed to go uphill just before she found this place. Perhaps it had something to do with the promised help. She had to know. She turned down the lamp, crawled into her sleeping bag, and began to pray.

"Oh God, I mean Jesus, Oh I don't know what I mean. God if you are really there, and if you really care about me, I need to know it. I mean I've been pretty lucky so far. But was it luck? It sure seems like it. Did you do all of this? Why didn't I go down into the valley before this storm? I'm sure there are places I could have made or found shelter. So why did I come up here to this shed? I know that the wind is worse on the hill top. Unless, you find a place like this. So which is it? Are You there? Do you care about me? Please God, Jesus, show me the truth. Thank you. Oh, I mean, Amen."

Director Ives never failed to be amazed at not only how stupid these people could be, but how gullible. He still couldn't believe how the people, especially the women, could get so caught up in trying to be better than the person next to them. After some, expected, resistance to the order to report for impregnation, some of the first women that had volunteered gave glowing reports of their treatment. Their families were also quick to report on the generosity of the space brothers. Large amounts of food were delivered to their homes, along with promises of good medical care for the entire family.

The women themselves were questioned, discreetly, about their 'encounters' with the space brothers they'd had 'relations' with. They reported the encounters were much like those they had with normal men. It was just that things with the 'brothers' were better. When asked how it was better, they would usually answer with something like 'you had to be there' and a very satisfied smile.

After that, women from every country in the world became jealous. They began demanding their own chance to become the parents of 'star children'. It was unfair that only the American women got this chance.

The 'space brothers' waited a whole week before the announcement came.

To Our Children of Planet Earth

After due consideration, and consultation with our home planet, it has been decided that the opportunity to bare the offspring of mating with our kind, will be given to all the women of Earth.

We ask that the women of Earth have some patience. We had not expected this kind of a reaction from our children. We had hoped that everyone would have been more understanding. However, we are willing to provide the same service for all the women of Earth. We will need some small amount of time to prepare everything to help you.

Director Ives even smiled as he saw how it was becoming something of a badge of supposed honor to be a host mother. Those who refused, or fought against the idea, were looked down on. It was amusing to watch the Masters' plan take shape. Not only were these women standing in line for impregnation, some of them were even fighting over who got in line first.

One generation, perhaps two and the human genome would be totally corrupted. There wouldn't be a chance of stopping the Masters plan. Especially since the Nazarenes Father had promised to never flood out the planet ever again. This time it would work. He knew it would work.

The snow was getting deeper, and the wind wasn't letting up at all, when Linda woke in the morning. She didn't know how long she could last in the shed. She didn't have much left in the way of food, and no way to heat the shed, except by the oil lamp. But she wasn't worried. And she still wasn't sure about the dream she'd had.

It was the most wonderful dream she could remember. She was in a field of tall green grass. It was warm, and nothing in the world troubled her. Then she met Him. He was a beautiful man. Unlike any she had ever known. Together they walked through the field, and talked. She never did ask His name, it didn't seem important. He seemed to think that she knew who he was, and didn't talk about it. As the dream was ending, He assured her that all would be well with her. If she only believed in Him and what He said.

When she awoke, she couldn't shake the dream, nor did she want to. She wanted to hold on to every last word, sight, and smell. She wanted to believe in Him. Later she came to believe that is why she wasn't frightened when the door handle rattled, and then turned.

The wind was still blowing as the door knob started to turn, and Linda figured that was why she hadn't heard anything. While she wasn't afraid, she figured not to take risks that she didn't have to take. The shed was large enough to hold eight or ten animals, and had been divided into different stalls. She had been near the back of the shed, and quickly moved to the one farthest from the door. Ducking down, she looked between the slats of the stalls to see what would happen next.


Two people dressed in heavy winter clothing stepped through the door and quickly closed it behind them. Standing with their backs to her, they shook off the snow, and took off their coats and hats. It was at that point she realized they were girls, both about her own age. They still had their backs to her, as they began to speak.

"Are you sure we're doing the right thing?" The shorter of the two asked.

"You’re old enough to know what sex is all about. Do you want to have one of those things on top of you? Do you want to have its' baby? I don't."

"I know, but what about Mom and Dad? What about Craig and Lee? They might get killed."

The taller girl sighed heavily.

"I know, but what else could we do? Mom and Dad were both talking about our patriotic duty. So you know they weren't listening to us. Craig and Lee were more upset about not being able to have girlfriends. They didn't care about us. They thought that we were like everybody else, and wouldn't want real boyfriends of our own kind. Face it, we are on our own. There isn't anyone that is going to help us. We have to take care of ourselves."

"Are you sure nobody is going to find us here, and what is this place anyway?"

"As sure as I can be. This shed used to be used when there were still cattle around here. The ranch hands would use it to keep their horses, and themselves, out of bad weather. I found it while camping a couple of years ago. The snow is covering our tracks. I don't think anyone knows we're here."

"That's not quite true." Linda said.
 

day late

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Chapter Twenty One


As expected, after the Chinese had evacuated, the Russians knew they wouldn't be able to hold their gains, without a much higher price to be paid. It was true that the American population had taken unbelievable losses, but they now had countless Chinese and Russian weapons that had been left behind. Two things they knew for certain, the surviving Americans were not like the people they had first encountered. These people were willing to stand and fight. Secondly, with trouble the government back home was having keeping the former Soviet Republics in line, there would be no more men and material coming to their aid. It was time to cut their losses and leave.

They fought an organized withdrawal, rather than letting it turn into a route. They withdrew back up the Mississippi River valley almost along the path they had taken to get as far as they had. Unlike the Chinese, they had a different plan. One that had been used by them before. The 'Scorched Earth' withdrawal left nothing behind that the victorious Americans could use. Anything that could be of use to the retreating Russians was 'liberated' and the rest destroyed. Rail road trains were blown up, and the tracks they ran on were torn up or the ties burned. Any and all food stuffs were taken. Nothing was left behind but ashes and ruin.

Director Ives was surprised by the aftermath of the war. He had expected to have to run if the Russians and Chinese lost, not only from the Americans, but from the Master as well. As it turned out, most of the Americans credited him with not only holding the enemy advances, but also with their survival as a people through the intervention of the creators from space. And as for the Master, he had plans for Ives. Plans that meant he was needed here on Earth for a while longer. The fallen ones, or 'space brothers' as men knew them, needed his help in getting all the women on Earth to them. And to completely corrupt the human genome, it had to be all of the women. They didn't need problems that would come from abductions. And so far, he had done a good job of it. True there was some resistance at first, but when they followed his advice, and treated the human women gently, they were rewarded with more volunteers than they ever expected.

Yes, things were certainly turning around for Ives. But the most shocking thing of all was when the Americans overwhelmingly called for him to become their new leader, to replace the late president. Using all of the false modesty at his command, he stood before the cameras and, at first, declined the offer. Then at the end he, supposedly, humbled himself and said that if the majority of the American people still felt that his services were needed, he would accept the job. But only on a temporary basis.

The people ate it up. They claimed this proved he was the right man for the job, because he didn't want it.

"Where did you come from?" The girls demanded.

"I was here when you came in." Linda answered.

"Obviously." Said the older girl. "But why are you here."

"I could say I'm taking shelter from the weather, but from what I've heard, I'm here for the same reason you are. I don't want one of those things touching me either."

The sisters could be seen to relax slightly. Then the older one spoke again.

"Did you leave family behind too?"

Linda shook her head. "My parents, and a younger brother."

"Aren't you worried about them?" Asked the younger girl.

"Yeah, I am. But it's kind of weird. I mean my folks always told me to 'save myself for marriage' and that kind of thing. Then Dad got hurt in the war, just before those things showed up. After that, I don't know. Everything kind of changed. When the aliens started talking about 'repopulation' Mom got all excited and it seemed for a while she was ready to go and do it herself. Then when they said they only wanted unmarried women, she couldn't wait for me to leave. Dad didn't like it, but said it was my 'duty' so I left. I just didn't tell them where I was going. I hope they are alright. What about you two?"

"It sounds like we could be sisters. Except since our Dad was a farmer, he didn't go to war. They said he had a more important job to do. But yeah, our Mom was kind of the same way." She paused for a moment. "I'm Jesse, by the way. This is my sister, Amie."

"I'm Linda. Nice to meet you."

As she moved forward to shake hands with the sisters, Linda’s Bible slipped from her bag and fell to the floor. Seeing it, Jesse remarked.

"Oh, so you're a Christian. That explains a little more why you are hiding out here."

"I can't say if I am or I'm not. I just found this a little while ago, and just started reading it. There are a lot of interesting things in here. I don't see why anyone who believes in it should be blamed for what is happening. I just wish there was someone who could help me understand it a little better."

Jesse and Aimee looked at each other for a moment. It was like some unspoken conversation was going on. Aimee shrugged her shoulders and nodded at Linda. Then Jesse said.

"Sit down. Show us what you don't understand. We'll see if we can help you."

Several people were sitting around the general store, since it had become the new gathering place. With church on Sunday, and a sort of welcoming center now taking over the community center, the store seemed the natural choice for other types of meet and greets events. Some of the younger folks liked the idea, since it had the only pool table in town. With no T.V. or commercial radio, their only other diversions were either cards or whatever board games were available.

Bob was putting a couple of pieces of wood into the old fashioned wood burning, 'pot-belly' stove, when the Major came in, looking for him.

"Bob. Glad I found you. Think we could have a minute?"

He had said it a little loudly, so others would hear him. As a result, three men sitting nearby got up and moved to another table, saying; "Here take this spot." leaving a private space for the two of them. Bob chuckled to himself at how these men knew when what had to be said, was for him alone.

"Well, Major. It seems we have a seat. What's on your mind?"

As they sat down, Ferguson leaned a little closer to Bob and lowered his voice before speaking.

"Bob, what are we going to do, now that the war is all but over?"

"I've been thinking about that." He reached around and started to scratch his shoulder. "I'm not to certain we should do anything just yet. Maybe not until spring. But I have been praying about it."

Ferguson smiled. "I can see that. I think you are about to wear a hole in that shirt. But have you given thought to exactly what we are facing?"

"I have, but lets' hear your thoughts."

Ferguson held up his hand and began ticking things off on his fingers.

"First off, I think just about everyone in the country is armed now. Unfortunately, most of them don't like Christians. Secondly, now that the Chinese are gone, and the Russians are pulling out, they are going to have a lot of time on their hands to find someone to blame for everything. Third, we already know that Christians have been blamed for most of the problems, and now with the aliens claiming to be our real creators, those people are even more likely to come after us. Fourth, they see us as cowards, because we didn't take part in much of the fighting. Never mind the fact that we were kicked out of the service, and were being hunted at the same time. In short, sooner or later someone is going to come looking for us, and I think we need to be ready for it. Did I miss anything?"

"Not much. We do have two advantages though. First, we have The Lord, they don't. Second we have a little time. I don't think that anyone is going to be looking for us until spring. We have that long to seek out The Lord, and find out what He wants us to do."

Director Ives knew that he had played his cards just right. By pretending he didn't really want the job of running what was left of the United States, the people who had survived everything so far, had placed him in a new office by acclimation, with the title of Supreme Director of Reconstruction. He now had the power to do whatever he wanted. He only had to make it sound good, and he was an expert at doing that.

He could see that while the offer of the space brothers was going over well with the female portion of the population, the men were very unhappy. The fact that many of them were now without any chance of getting a wife, at least until after the women’s first child or two was born from their mating with the fallen ones, was something that had to be dealt with right away. The answer came to him quickly. He could solve two problems at one time. A new directive was put out almost at once.

From: Supreme Director Ives

To: The People of the United States

Subject: Reconstruction

As we are all aware, the combination of war and natural disasters has taken a terrible toll on this nation. Both the east and west coasts have been devastated by tsunamis, while the center portion of the country was badly damaged by first the Great New Madrid earthquake, and then damaged even further by the retreating Russian forces.

Much of the available farm land has been burned so badly that it will take a massive effort by all of the people that can reach these areas just to prepare it for spring planting. We also have the additional problem of unexploded munitions that litter the entire area.

Both coasts have a similar problem of debris from the war, and I'm sorry to say, unburied bodies from the war and the tsunamis. To call the situation dire would be an appalling understatement. But our situation is not hopeless.

I have been informed by scouting parties that have already entered the coastal regions that they have been finding large food stores that were left behind by the enemy. It is believed that the Russian forces didn't have the chance to reach these stores during their haste to leave the country.

In the case of the Chinese forces, we believe that there simply wasn't room on board their ships for these stores. While there are large amounts of food, transporting them to the areas where they are needed most will not be an easy one. There are still small numbers of enemy forces that were abandoned by their nations, on both east and west coasts. These forces will not want to allow us to take these food stores. I will not deceive you. It will be dangerous. But I'm calling on able bodied men to report for duty for the following areas.

First, we will need men who have spent time on the front during the war. It will be their job to protect our men who will be doing the other necessary work.

Secondly, we will need men to search out and find all remaining food stores, and any equipment that can be used to rebuild this country or to transport items they find that will be, and are needed by the rest of the nation.

Finally, we will need men that are skilled in the use of horse or mule drawn wagons, to bring these needed supplies back to where they will do the most good for the people of America.

We will send medical personnel with these teams, to handle any medical problems that arise. No matter if it is injuries, or infections. The necessary medical personnel will be on hand.

I am asking for volunteers to start with, but should the need arise, a limited draft will be imposed.

I know you have all sacrificed much this far. However I must ask you to step forward one more time, for the betterment of the country. I believe that you the brave men of this land will come forward at this time of need, unlike the cowardly Christians who wouldn't even fight in the war.

Please, report to your local post office for screening to decide which task you will be assigned to do.

The three girls continued to talk for the rest of the day. Linda was asking questions and either Jessie or Amie were answering. After a while, Linda called for a pause.

"Lets' hold up on the Bible study for a bit. I need to kind of think about it. If you don't mind, I would like to ask a question. But it's kind of personal."

"Go ahead." Jessie said. "If it's too personal, we won't answer."

"Okay that sounds fair. It is obvious you two are Christians, so what about your family? I mean why aren’t they out here with you?"

Jesse sighed "It's kind of weird. I mean, Mom and Dad always took us to church, and Sunday school, and we learned a lot. At least until the aliens showed up. We gave ourselves to Jesus a few years ago, and we tried to talk with them about it, but it was like they knew even less than we did."

"Yeah." Aime joined in. "It was like they thought church was some kind of social club. They never studied The Bible. They just went to church to meet people and kind of hang out."

"You mean they didn't even ask questions about what is in The Bible. That doesn't sound like they really believed in anything."

"I hate to say it, but I think you're right. They just wanted to see and be seen, as they say."

"But how could that happen? I mean you must have been going to church for years to learn everything you two know. Didn't they ever accept what The Bible teaches?"

"I guess not." Aime answered. "They never lived like Christians at home. Dad sometimes drank too much, and Mom was always worrying about if her clothes and stuff were better than what someone else had. They both would curse like you wouldn't believe when they got upset or had an argument. I don't understand it either. But in public, they were the just as perfect as could be."

"Yeah, Aime is right. I don't understand it either. They just did their thing and that was it. And when the aliens came, they were among the first to say they never really believed, and they always thought there had to be something else going on."

"From what I've learned so far, I don't see how that would be possible." Linda shook her head. "I mean there is so much in this book, how could anyone not believe?"

Bob was near the ridge where it had all started. He was looking over the town, and watched as Maria walked up to him. He thought how radiant she looked, even though she wasn't showing her pregnancy yet.

"What are you looking at?" she asked as she drew close.

"I was just thinking. How much things have changed since we first got here."

"That's true. We never see the wild dogs any more. Almost every house in town has someone living in it. According to Kathy five women in town are expecting. There certainly are a lot of things different."

Bob put his arm around his wife. "That's all true, but it isn't what I'm talking about. Have you ever noticed we seem to have a situation like the Tower of Babel, in reverse. Everyone here is a believer, but we come from just about every race on the planet. So, instead of one people before God changed everyone, we have just about every race on the planet here. Whereas before, in The Bible everyone was one race but went their own way, here everyone serves God no matter what race they come from. It is amazing to me."

"I see what you mean. I just wish certain ones of those people were a little stronger in their faith."

"Let me guess. It’s Mrs. Molton and her group again?"

"You’ve got it. Now that Major Ferguson and Anna have become something of an item, she's spreading stories that Anna is trying get to us by having him influence you."

"One of these days, that woman is going to go too far. I really think you couldn't change her mind about anything with a baseball bat."

"Isn't there anything that can be done about her?"

"Not without her actually doing something bad enough for us to act. Running her mouth and making false accusations just doesn't do it."

Maria sighed and laid her head against Bobs' shoulder.

"Well I guess we'll just have to make the best of it." She paused for a moment. "You know, I can't help the feeling that The Lord wouldn't lead us all to this place, and leave a burr under your saddle like her. I think something is going to happen to change all of that."

"A feeling? Or something else?"

"Just a feeling. Nothing like a vision, visitation, or dream."

"I guess we'll have to wait and see. Now, young lady. You may not be showing yet, but you are still expecting. Time to get you in out of the snow."

"Yes Daddy."
 

day late

money? whats that?
On the morning of second day in the shed, Linda, Jesse, and Aime all woke at the same time. That was strange enough, but they looked at each other and almost at the same time asked each other.

"Did you see him?"

There was confusion for a moment until Jesse took control of the situation.

"Hold on, hold on. Lets' take this one at a time. Aime, what happened with you?"

"I had a dream, I guess. But I've never had such a real dream in my life. I saw a man. A big man all dressed in white robes. He said that we need to leave here, and he would show us where to go."

"It was the same thing here." Said Jesse. "What about you Linda."

"I remember he said his name was Michael. And he said that in the morning we would all know it was real." She paused momentarily and said, "Isn't there something about two or three witnesses in The Bible?"
“One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established. Is what The Bible says.” Said Aimee. "I guess that's what Michael was talking about. We all saw the same thing. So what do we do now?"

"Pack up and get ready for traveling." Answered Linda.

Once the three girls had packed up everything they had, they found they had a problem. While the snow and wind hadn't been very heavy, it had been constant. Snow had drifted against the door. First Jesse tried to open it, and then she and Linda worked together with the same lack of progress.

"Now what do we do?" Aimee asked.

"Maybe we can...Shh. Listen." Jesse said.

The faint sound of an engine could be heard. As they listened, it got closer to them.

"Oh no. The army is the only ones with anything that runs anymore. What are we going to do if they come up here?" Linda asked in a frightened voice.

"That doesn't sound like any army truck I've ever heard. It's more like a snowmobile. Do they have those?" Aimee asked.

None of them knew for certain. They did know they were trapped in the shed, with no way out. Shortly it was clear that the noise was coming closer. They waited for certain capture, and the forced mating that would follow. Suddenly the sound of the engine changed. It was clearly having trouble getting up the slope to the shed. Then it stopped. They listened hardly daring to breathe. Two men began to talk.

"I didn't think we'd get up this hill. The tread on this thing is about shot. We can't get enough traction to get up there."

"Maybe we should walk up there."

"Walk? Are you crazy? I'm not going to climb up there. Besides, look at it. Snow has drifted up against the door, and there aren't any footprints leading up to it."

"Someone could have gotten in there before the snow started. And you never know. There might be some food or something up there."

"Up there? Listen dummy, that thing is too small to hold much of anything. You want to fight your way up that hill, through all that snow, you go right ahead. I'll stay here and finish the coffee before it gets cold."

Okay, okay. I guess you're right. How much coffee is left?"

"I'd say about a half a cup each."

"Well share it out. Then we'll head back."

"Sounds like a plan."

They listened to the men chat for a couple of minutes, and then heard the machine start up, slowly turn around, and begin to make its' way back down the hill.

Linda sighed in relief and said, "Boy, we got lucky."

Jesse looked at her. "Luck had nothing to do with it. That was The Lord."

"How can you be sure of that?"

"If we had left when we first tried to, our prints would have been clear enough for them to see. It would have only been a short time before they caught up with us."

"But we couldn't leave. The snow has us trapped in here."

"Does it? Help me try the door again."

Doubtful of the outcome, Linda moved to the door. Together Linda and Jesse pushed the door again. While the snow resisted, the door slowly opened, until there was more than enough room for the girls to leave. Linda stared at the open door, and said,

"Thank you God."

"Amen." The sisters said.




Director Ives once again began to think of the little town that had stood against him during the war. Now there wasn't anything to stop his men from going into that town, and cleaning it out once and for all, except for the snow. That problem would be solved as soon as the next rise in the temperature. Until then, all he had to do was get his men into position, and wait.

Once again, he looked over his maps from the war. He would pull some men in off the plains, and get them closer to the foothills. He carefully planned how he would bring men up from Carson City. Also more men, veterans from the vicious fighting in Montana would be moved down from the north. Men from Cheyenne would cover the eastern flank. By moving slowly, just a few miles a day, they would certainly pick up the Christians trail, sooner or later. He called the secretary to give the orders.

Captain Rutherford read the orders for the third time. It still didn't make much sense to him. He and his one hundred and fifty men knew where every town and village was between Cheyenne and the Rockies. Why were they being ordered to spread out so far apart? It would make so much more sense to stick together and go from town to town. Especially, if they ran into any remaining Russian soldiers. It just didn't make sense.

"Hell, Captain. It isn't like we have to leave today." Sergeant Rutherford, the Captains son, said. "It's going to take a week or more for the snow to melt enough for us to get started. I mean if we still had snow plows, that would be one thing, but this can't be done on foot in this kind of weather. You know that. If w spread out like that our people are going to die, and that’s about it. Why don't you try to confirm those orders, or try to have them change them?"

"I think your right Son. I don't like spreading out so far in good weather. In all of this, if any one group runs into trouble, nobody would be able to get to them fast enough to do anything, except bury the bodies."

As Director Ives soon found out, Captain Rutherford wasn't the only one who didn't like the orders. The idea of skirmish lines spreading out for miles on end just wasn't going to happen. These men were too battle smart to do what he had hoped they would. As much as he wanted the men spread out, in order to cause them to take maximum casualties, they weren't going to do it. Some of them had even sent messages saying as much. And they had used very colorful language to express their concerns.

It took a little time for him to come up with a good excuse, but eventually he sent out new orders requiring each unit to scour every place they came to, for anything that could be used for reconstruction. He also warned them to not only watch out for surviving enemy soldiers, but for those cowardly Christians as well. The Christians would be used for labor. Rutherford and his men would be expected to begin moving out within a week, as a warm front passed through the area.



Major Ferguson didn't politely knock at Bobs' door as he usually did. This morning he pounded impatiently. Bob came to the door, wide awake and already dressed.

"Good morning, Major. I take it you had a visit last night as well."

"If you are talking about Michael, the answer is yes. Bob, how are we going to do this?"

"First thing is we have to do is have Jim make an announcement tomorrow at church. Find out if we are the only ones that had this dream."

At that point Alex came jogging up to his father and the Major.

"Wait until you hear about the dream I had." he said.

"The one with Michael?" Ferguson asked.

"You too?"

"And your Dad. I wonder how many people had the same dream."

Bob looked up and down the street. People were coming from both directions.

"I think we aren't going to have to ask Jim to help with this. Take a look.”

It wasn't long before everyone who had the dream was gathered in the general store. Bob stood at the front of the group and addressed them.

"Okay folks. It seems that we all had the same dream. Let me briefly recap, and see if we all got the same message. In short, the Arch Angel Michael has told us that we have ten days to get ready to leave this town. We will have to take food and water for the journey, and everything we can carry in the way of weapons, and building materials. No lumber, or anything like that, just hammers, nails, screwdrivers, and screws, of course. In short, just hand tools. Does anyone have anything else to add?"

"Not everyone got the dream. What about them? I mean, what if they don't want to leave?"

"We'll just have to do our best to convince them."

"What if we can't?"

"We'll just have to cross that bridge when we come to it, I guess."

"How are we going to move all the stuff we have to take?"

"I know we have a pickup, an S.U.V. and the three trucks that the Major and his men brought with them when they came. I know it isn't much room to work with, so everyone think carefully about what you'll want to bring with us. For example, I don't believe that everyone is going to have to bring a hammer. Things like that."

"Bob, may I make a suggestion?"

“Certainly, Anna."

“Why don't we organize this thing from here. As people finalize their lists of what to bring, they bring the list by here and compare it with others."

"Sounds like a good idea. Anna. Would you do the honors of coordinating that?"

"If you want me to, sure I will."

"I can't think of anyone better qualified. Anyone else have ideas?"

Nobody else could think of anything, so the meeting broke up, and everyone went on their way to begin their preparations.

Needless to say, Mrs. Molton didn't like it one bit. She knew that they had been led here for a reason. The idea that they would have to leave didn't improve her mood. She certainly didn't see any good reason to leave while it was so cold. It would be almost impossible to move through all this snow, and without transportation, why should she have to walk to who knew where.

And she just knew that since that harlot was in charge of coordinating things, she would use that position to make things miserable for her and her friends. Probably put them in the back of the group, so they would have to walk through the mud and filth after everyone else had already walked through the snow and melted it.

No. There was no way she was going to put up with this, and in the morning, she would make her husband go with her down to the store, when the meeting was going on, and talk some sense into these people.

As with all things, Anna threw herself into her task with a will. Instead of waiting for people to bring her a list, she made a list of her own. Her list was not only filled with things they would need, but also said how many of these things would be needed. As men came in, they would pledge to bring in certain items on a given day. These items were then assigned a packing number. All of these things were then to be placed on one of the three trucks that had come in with Major Ferguson. It wasn't long before she was asking if Bob minded if the tool box was taken out of the back of his pick up.

"No. Thanks for asking though. Do you mind if I look over your lists?"

"Help yourself." Were Anna's only words.

Bob started going over the lists. He had been around the military trucks enough to know their cargo capabilities. In his mind, he mentally loaded each truck with the things on the list. He saw how each and every item would be of importance once they arrived wherever Michael would lead them. He found only one thing to question.

"Anna? Why haven't you figured more of a load for the S.U.V.? I know it can haul more than that."

Not even looking up from her work, Anna answered him.

"That room is spoken for. There is enough to seat five people. That happens to be the exact number of expectant mothers we have around here. I assumed you didn't want them walking."

It hit Bob that he had made a good choice of who should run things. He hadn't even gotten that far in his thinking.

"I see that things are in good hands. I'll leave you to your work. Meeting in about half an hour, you know."

"I remember. I'll be there."

As Bob walked away, he was happy in one way that nobody else was aware of. If trouble started, he knew he had to be out in front. Maria would demand to be at his side. But now she would be off the front lines, so to speak. She would be kept with the other expectant mothers towards the middle of the group.

On the other hand, when Maria found out about it, she accepted it gracefully, and then asked Anna if there was room on the S.U.V. for more weapons and ammo. Somehow, they found room.

Now, he was off to the meeting. Everyone who had gotten the same dream met almost every morning now for five days. They discussed and planned on how to make everything happen. They all worked together, first telling the rest of the community about their collective dream. And then, by helping to mobilize them to action. It got to be the usual 9:30 in the morning, when Bob called them all together to talk about things. He moved to the front, and opened the meeting in his normal, very unofficial, manner.

"Well folks, where do we stand?"

Before anyone else could say anything, a challenge filled voice called from the back.

"I'LL tell you where we stand, if you'll hear me."

"Mrs. Molton? Is that you? This is a public meeting. If you have something to add, please go ahead."

Mrs. Molton and a small group of women, accompanied by a man that looked as if he wanted to be anyplace else, stepped to the front of the room.

"You asked where we stand. We're about to make the biggest mistake of our lives. That's where we stand. Have you looked out there? The snow has stopped, and warmer weather is coming. If it suddenly turns cold again, you're going to be stuck out in the open. You'll freeze to death."

"Then where will the rest of us be? Not only that, can you imagine what those roads will be like? We're going to have people getting stuck in the mud. Does all of that sound like something God would do to us, after leading us all here?"

She paused for a breath, and continued her tirade.

"And now, when we are safe and warm, and dry, you say God wants us to leave it all and go off somewhere else? I say it is a mass hallucination. And now you've got everyone stirred up like ants. You should all be ashamed of yourselves,"

"Mass hallucination? If this had happened when we were all together, you might have a point.” Bob exclaimed. “But each of these people had the same dream at the same time. And they were completely unrelated to each other, but it was the same dream. Doesn't that mean anything to you?"

"It means you all are being influenced somehow." Her eyes were fixed on Anna. "Maybe you are all mistaken. What was said was ten weeks, not days. The point is I'm sure God couldn't have ordered this. We have it good here. Why should we have to move? Besides, why haven't the rest of us seen anything?"

As she finished up the women around her gave nodding approval to what she had said.

"Mrs. Molton, God is telling you, through us. Only God could do something like this. And in case you didn't hear, each of us tried the spirit in our dream. So we know it was from God. Now if you choose not to believe us, I'd suggest you start thinking about how a handful of you are going to make it through the winter. But whatever you are going to do, be it leave or stay, you need to get ready for it. Just remember what is written.

Eze 33:8 When I say unto the wicked, O wicked [man], thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked [man] shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

Eze 33:9 Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

You've been warned Mrs. Molton. Warned by multiple witnesses to the same thing. If you choose not to believe, then it's on your head. As for me, I've tried to be helpful, Mrs. Molton. I know others here have tried to speak with you. Nothing has helped.

Well, right now we have a situation. So either, lead, follow, or get out of the way. I do not have time for these outbreaks of yours. You make your own choice. So go somewhere and do something, but either help, or stay out of our way." With that Bob turned back to the group.

"Now where were we? Has anyone found trailers we can use with those big trucks? It would mean that much more to work with when we get where we are going."

As soon as she tried to say anything further, Mrs. Molton found herself either shouted down, or completely ignored. She soon became fed up with such treatment and ordered a retreat for them all. As she moved away, she heard a voice behind her.

"No Janie. I'm staying."

"Harold! What are you doing? Come with me." Mrs. Molton shouted.

He shook his head. "No Janie. I'm staying. I've always let you have your way. But, not this time. Can't you see what is happening? These people have heard from God, and you are turning your back on them, and Him. I can't do that. I won't do that. I'm staying."

"Have it your own way. Just don't come crawling back to me. Not tonight, or any night. Even if you do make it back from wherever you’re think you’re going."

With that she turned on her heel and stormed out. Harold watched his wife leave, heaved a sigh, then turned on his own heel, and walked to Major Ferguson.

"What would you like me to do, Sir?"
 

day late

money? whats that?
The girls had headed west northwest for four days. Every night they would come across a place to take shelter. It didn’t matter if it was a shed like the one they had met in, or an abandoned home, they always seemed to have food in them, when it was needed. The weather had been beautiful for them, and they made good time. On the evening of the forth day, they found another shed. This one was very little like the one in which they had met. It was in a bad state of disrepair. They still had no real idea of where they were going, but once a day, Michael would appear and give instructions to one of them.

While looking around the shed, Jesse asked her sister.

"Are you sure this is where we are supposed to stay? There are holes in the walls, not much of a roof, and nothing around here to eat."

"I know. But this is the place, I'm sure of it. He said we were to wait here."

"Did he say what for, or for how long?" Asked Linda.

"The only other thing he said was there is a need to move faster. We need to wait for the answer to that problem."

"Well, he hasn't been wrong before. I just hope it is a short stay." Jesse said.

"We don't know how long it might take. We’d best to be ready to bed down for the night." Linda said.

The sisters saw the sense of her words and began the chore of finding a good place to sleep. They soon found a place along one of the walls that had decent roofing still above it, and seemed to be sturdy enough to offer some protection from the wind. They had just finished setting up their sleeping arrangement, when they heard it. An animal pulling a wagon, and it was close by.

Looking between the cracks in the walls, they were able to see a single man, driving a team of horses, who were pulling a semi covered wagon. It had a curved canvas roof, but the sides had been rolled up. The wagon came to a stop a short distance from the shed. The driver looked at it.

Inside the girls had done what they had done before. Grabbed everything they could carry, and prepared to run, and leave the rest. They now waited by a back door, and trembled. They heard the man get off the wagon, and walk to the front door. Not even sure of what to expect, the three of them jumped when there came a knock at the door.

"Jesse? Aimee? Linda? I'm here to pick you up."

The girls looked at each other, but said nothing.

"Ah, come on girls. Michael sent me and its cold out here."

Jesse and Aimee looked at each other, and again had their silent conversation, and then Aimee moved to the door. She picked up a piece of the wood that she thought might make a good club, if she had to do something. She cracked the door open, just a tiny fraction.

She saw a young man, who was, to be honest, white as a sheet. He seemed scared to death by something.

"How do you know my name?" She asked.

The young man looked at her, through the crack.

"Aimee! Oh thank goodness I've found you. Are Jesse and Linda with you?"

"How do you know me?” She asked again. “I've never seen you before."

"I told you. Michael sent me to pick you three up. He showed me each and every one of you, and told me about you. I know who you are."

"Wait a minute."

Aimee closed the door, and looked at her sister. Jessie shrugged her shoulders.

"He knows we're all here, and our names. And there isn't anything to connect me with you two. Someone had to tell him about us, and tell him where to find us." Linda said.

"Open the door, Aimee." Jesse said.


They continued to bounce down back roads for the next several days. How many was it now? Four, or was it five? Linda didn't know. It was next to impossible to sleep in the wagon as it rolled along. Every time she would close her eyes, there would be a sudden jolt as the wagon wheels found potholes under the thin covering of snow. Her mind drifted back over the last few days. Rusty had come into the shed, looking like he'd just seen a ghost.

"Look girls. I don't care what a person believes or not, just as long as they leave me and mine alone. But this fella, Michael, he don't play fair. One look at him and you know he is for real. And you DON'T tell him no. Believe me, you don’t do that. So I came here looking for you. Michael said you'd be here. So let's get going."

"Wait a minute." said Linda. "Who said we know anyone named Michael? What does he look like?"

"Oh, you know. Big fella, long white robes, and with an eye that seems to look right through you."

"We need to pack up. Give us five minutes." Jesse had said.

Rusty couldn't wait to get moving. As long as they were stationary, he got antsy. Once they were on the move again, he would loosen up. They had spent a couple of hours on the road the first day, when Aimee finally grabbed Rusty's' arm and said,

"Rusty, PLEASE pull this thing over for a few minutes. You may be used to it, but my kidneys aren't. I need you to stop right now!"

Once the stop was over, Rusty urged the girls back on the wagon and got moving again. During the ride, different ones of the girls would sit up front next to him, and talk.

"So, did this big guy Michael tell you where we are going?"

"Just west. That's all I can really tell you. He just told me which roads to take, and that once we get to a certain point we'll be told what to do."

"I don't get it. You've said you're not a Christian. So why are you doing this? It could get you in a lot of trouble you know."

"I know. But Michael said it would be alright. I get the feeling he knows a lot more than what he is saying." Rusty paused briefly, and continued. "I've seen a lot of things in my life. I've never seen anything that convinced me there was anything else beyond this life. Until, Michael showed up. Now I don't know if he is one of those 'space brothers' or an angel, or what. I just know I had to do what he said if I knew what was good for me."

"He is an angel Rusty. A servant to the God we worship. And God has sent his servant to watch over us. I'd be happy to tell you more."

"Let me think about that one."

So it went for four or five days. Linda was so tired, but she knew, that Rusty was not about to stop until he had done what was asked of him. He seemed to have boundless energy. They would go as far as they could, each day. Once they had set up a camp, they would eat and turn in for some sleep. It felt like they had just closed their eyes, when all of a sudden, there was Rusty. Starting a fire and getting ready to hit the road again. All the girls had spoken with him about God, and what His Son had done for us. But none pushed him into believing.

His questions started simply enough, but they grew more and more complicated as the days went by. They knew he was seriously thinking about what he'd heard from them, and what he had certainly heard from the government. They knew he was close to a choice.

Rusty pulled the reigns, and gently called "Whoa.", as the wagon came to a halt. Rusty pointed to a valley off to his left.

"Ladies, Michael says that you are to head down that valley. You will meet up with some other people like yourselves, in a day or two. But here is where we part company."

The girls quickly gathered their belongings, and climbed off the wagon. It was Aimee who spoke first.

"Rusty, I want to thank you for getting us here. What will you do with what you've learned?"

"Miss Aimee, I don't really know. I mean it's against everything the government stands for, but for the life of me, I can't find anything wrong with it at all."

"Take this." Aimee handed him her Bible. "But only if you promise me you'll read it."

"You're Bible? Now I couldn't do that. What would you read from?"

"We all have one. I can study with my sister, we've done it before. Just take it and read it. Promise me?"

Rusty took the book, stuck it in a pocket, and said;

"I promise. Hey, I've got a five day ride ahead of me to find some answers. Now I have a chance of finding them."

With that, he gently slapped the reigns, turned the wagon around, and pulled away from the trio.
 

day late

money? whats that?
Chapter Twenty Two


It was inconceivable to Mrs. Molton that so many people could be so deceived. Within twenty-four hours, nearly everyone in town stopped speaking with her. Everyone said they were too busy, getting ready to leave you understand. Only a very few of the people she knew would take the time to talk with her. They all said the same thing. Only they few, who knew, what they thought of as the truth, would have to stand against the rest of the town. There were less than fifteen of them all together. Mrs. Molton was embarrassed that her husband had left her for this madness, but her friends who had similar events happen to them as well, gave her their full sympathy.

She admitted, at least to herself, that she had underestimated her husband. She had fully expected him realize what he was losing, and come home, sometime in the night. He hadn't shown up. When he hadn't come home the second night, she knew he had turned against her as well.

Well, they would see. They would all see. When they came crawling back here, after who knows what happens to them out there, when they got back, she would be someone who people listened to, and respected. She could wait for that.

One thing that vile man Bob had said that she had to agree with was the need to get ready to survive the coming winter. Soon she was collecting food supplies and firewood at her home. She knew there wouldn't be anyone to care for her, for some weeks possibly, ahead. She made certain her needs were taken care of, but found she had little time to talk to her friends.

By the morning of the ninth day, instead of everyone running around in panic, most people were already set to go. For most of the group, it was simply a matter of topping of their preparations as best they could. Bob couldn't help noticing that while nobody was rude to Mrs. Molton, and her friends, nobody had the time to talk with them either. Of all of them, Bob noted, only Mrs. Molton was making any sort of headway towards taking care of herself.

Right up to the end, whenever Bob actually did speak to her, he had urged her in the strongest possible terms to leave with the rest. She had refused. At least she knew enough to get what she could, while she could. These others, he knew would end up fighting over whatever is left. It wouldn't be pretty when she had food, and her friends didn't.

The pickup lead the convoy out of town. It was followed by the S.U.V. and then the three military trucks, each of them pulling a trailer. Horse drawn wagons brought up the rear. Somehow they had managed to arrange for everyone to ride, but it was quite crowded.

Mrs. Molton and the other five women watched the convoy leave. Nobody said a thing. Those who were staying simply knew the others would be back shortly after the first heavy snowfall. Then they would have their say as the others returned.

The people leaving had, for the most part, tried to get through to the women for awhile, but with no success. There simply wasn't anything left to say, except goodbye.

It was early on the tenth morning, the convoy left. Within half an hour the remaining women were deep in conversation about how long it would take for the others to return. As they talked, they realized that the usual coffee was missing.

“Janie, I thought you still had some. Or was I mistaken?"

"No you aren't mistaken, but I'm saving it for when the weather turns colder."

The incident was small, but it finally got the rest of the women thinking about trying to stay alive. They also started eyeing Mrs. Moltons' kitchen, and pantry. It was later that same day, that some of the women began to feel cheated by their own meager supplies. They somehow felt it was her fault.

They didn't really get to upset with her the first three days after the convoy left. They all had enough food to last for at least a week or more. Then they would have to start going through to other homes in town, to see what might be left. On the other hand, they didn't have far to look for firewood. There was an ample supply outside almost each house in town. Each woman could keep herself as warm as she wished.

When the convoy had left town, it was headed to the east, northeast. So they were surprised to see people approaching from the east, southeast four days later. By the time the women realized that this wasn’t convoy they had watched leave, it was too late. There was no place for them to run, and no place to hide.


"Captain Rutherford. I think we got them all. We've found only six of them. And get this, it looks like one of those towns we were told to watch out for."

"What gives you that idea?"

"There are all kinds of Christian junk all over the place."

"Well now. That kind of puts a new light on things, doesn't it?"

"What do you mean?"

"Most of the men are un-married. Since the 'brothers' taking our women, they are without female companionship. Now these women, they're Christians. That means they have no rights. They could be taken in for impregnation, or they could be spared that if they were already pregnant. It's not like they could refuse." An evil smile shown on his face.

"I think the men would appreciate the chance."

"I think they've earned it."

The women had been gathered in the community center for 'safe keeping'. It didn't take long before they found out how safe they really weren’t. Somewhere during the night most of the women renounced God, their husbands, families, everything, and everyone they could think of, if this would just stop. Before dawn, all but one of them were dead.

The last remaining woman was brought into the general store, where Captain Rutherford had set up his headquarters. The guards set her in a chair near the door, and left. They weren't worried about her running away. They didn't think she could even stand and walk.

Rutherford was looking over maps on a table with his back to her. It had rained, briefly, but hard last night. All signs of where the rest of the people had gone had been washed away. He planned on getting as much information from this woman as he could. The threat of giving her back to his men should be enough to make her sing like a bird. Then he heard the shot.

Spinning on his heel, he saw the woman fall. The handgun that fell from her hand had come from his belt, left hanging on a peg near the door. He sighed. Now they would have to find the rest of these Christians the hard way.




The girls continued to head west, northwest, after leaving Rusty. They had avoided any contact with people, and had managed to either hunt, or live off of things they found at night around a still functioning farmyard. They weren't happy with the diet, but it was better than nothing. They had been together for around three weeks now, and as they walked, they also continued to read and talk about The Bible. Soon, even Linda understood when certain expressions were used. Like baring her cross. She noticed that no matter how uncomfortable or tired they became, neither of the sisters complained. Linda asked about it.

Jesse answered. "The Apostle Paul said that he learned to be satisfied, no matter his condition. Now this comes from a man that had been beaten countless times, stoned three times I think, shipwrecked more than once. He ended up in Rome, only to be executed by Nero. And he learned to be satisfied. That sounds like we still have quite a way to go, if we start complaining now." She smiled then continued. "Besides, if we did, who would listen, and what would it change?"

"I never thought of it that way." She fell silent for a moment. "Kind of gives the old story about 'suffering in silence' a whole new meaning."

"Hey." Amie called out. "Do you think Rusty is O.K.? I've been watching the weather behind us. It looks real bad. It just isn't getting any closer to us. Think he might have gotten caught in that?"

"I think it is safe to say that as long as he keeps his promise, he won't go wrong." Jesse said.

"I think God will keep an eye on him until he makes his choice to follow The Lord, or not." Linda said. "I got a feeling it could be a hurricane out there, and the weather would be calm where ever he is."

"I hope so. He was nice."



Director Ives was amazed at the messenger that was waiting for him when he got to work. The news he brought was even more amazing. Ives was to begin the implementation of the mark. It wasn't to be called that, of course, but it was now time to begin, so that later the job would be much easier with a large part of it done.

He assured the messenger that it would be done.

He sat in his office figuring just how far he could push this, without letting the Masters plan out into the open. He knew how he could accomplish most of it. To start with, he could make sure that every woman that was honestly entitled to receive benefits for their mating with the 'space brothers' would receive a computer chip in their right hand, or forehead. That way nobody that wasn't entitled could steal the benefits from those who were. The next part would be for identification of those who would have a right to food stores, as they became available.

He thought carefully about it, and over the course of the next two weeks, he released two statements.


To: The People of the North American Directorate

It has been brought to the attention of the directorate that certain persons have been trying to claim benefits, to which they have no right. Every effort is being made to keep these un-authorized persons from claiming that which is not theirs. However, to date some persons have managed to slip through our reward system.

Not after today. I am asking every woman that has or is going to come forward to accept the offer of impregnation, now accept this computer chip implanted in their hand. This chip will ensure that no one but those who are actually entitled to benefits will receive them. It will also ensure that if someone is not entitled, they will not receive any benefits. In this way, we may be truly fair in the delivery of earned benefits, and be able to stop the fraud that is being forced upon us.

Furthermore, I am requesting that the family members that are also entitled to such benefits also allow the implantation of these identifiers. In this way, no deserving person will be denied their rightful benefits.

Now we come to the matter of equal distribution of such food stuffs, and other needful items that our people will doubtlessly liberate from the formerly occupied zones.

My friends, I don't think that any will disagree that those who bore the burden of combat should be the first to receive the benefits from the liberated items. But this war has been so devastating to us all. It is hard to know just who has served, and in what capacity. I am asking that all veterans bring whatever proof they have of service to the nation. Once the proof of service is verified, then you as well will be eligible to receive an identifier, no benefits can ever again be denied you.

There will undoubtedly be those who have concerns about the safety of such measures. There will be some who may feel that implanting an identifier under the skin is an extreme thing to do. Let me put these fears to rest.

I will admit the need for these identifiers is extreme. We live in extreme times, I'm sure you will all agree. I'm sorry to say that even at times like these, when we need each other the most, there are still those people who are only concerned with their own benefit. Their own profit. Identification cards can be stolen, lost, or destroyed. The implanted identifier cannot stolen. It cannot be lost. It cannot be destroyed.

Let me also remind you all. These identifiers were invented by the creators of humankind. Who would better know how to make such a device and make certain that it won't be harmful to us?

Starting at the first of next month, all persons known to the Directorate to be actual combat veterans will start to receive notices in the mail. These notices will give a day, time, and date to report to the facility listed in the notice. While these identifiers are highly recommended by the Directorate, they are not required. Each person must choose to accept this, or not.

It is only right that you should be reminded, and think about the fact that those who choose to side with us, will be the first in line for the benefits. Be sure to consider this when making your decision.



Bob turned off the radio. The only thing in his mind was a scripture.

Rev 13:16 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:

Rev 13:17 And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

Rev 13:18 Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number [is] Six hundred threescore [and] six.

Well, they were certainly making it difficult to refuse. Not required, but if you wanted to eat, you got the chip. You want to work, you got the chip. He shook his head. He knew that even at this late date, there were still those who held out hope for a rapture of some sort. What was it going to take for the scales to be taken off the eyes of some people? The beginning of the implementing of The Mark was beginning right in front of them, and they still believe that we are going to be out of here at any time.

He looked again at the map before him, trying to guess where they were being led. Yellowstone? Certainly, in that direction. Finally he had to admit that his knowledge of the area was just too limited. he would have to trust The Lord.

Considering the weather, he had lots of reasons to do that. No matter which way they went, the weather was perfect for traveling. Behind them, the weather was terrible. All sign of their passing was completely wiped out. Game turned out to be far more abundant than they had any right to expect. So, food wasn't a problem. During earlier months the townsfolk had dried and put back as much as they could, in the way of nuts, berries, and different vegetables. Now a pattern had developed. They would travel for two days, and stop for one. At the times they were at a temporary camp, everyone would prepare meals for the next several days. So as they moved, they could get by with cold meals if they had to do so. And there had been a few times they did have to.

But now, he was getting that feeling again. The feeling that they had to remain here, no matter how much he wanted to be on the move. He had told Maria that he was going for a walk, and scratched his shoulder.

Maria nodded knowingly. "Don't let the food get cold."

"Now, Sweetheart. Have you ever known me to be late for a meal?"

"That depends. If you're not helping someone, or going off on one of your prayer walks, you'll be back on time. Otherwise, I'll re-heat it when you get here."

Bob had walked over a small hill, sat down and began to pray. He simply didn't understand why they had been held up here for days now. He sat there on a fallen tree, looking at the wilderness before him. He watched as three deer walked into the open and grazed briefly. After they had left, a mixture of different animals and birds passed before him. Then he heard it. A voice. Gently, he eased himself behind the log, and drawing his pistol assumed a firing position.

In the bushes a little off to his right something was moving through. He waited. If these were renegade Russians, or even anti-Christian Americans, he was in a bad spot. Nobody knew where he was. They would have to follow the sound of shooting. That might take too long. But he couldn't leave without exposing himself. He had to wait. The brush began to part.

"Aimee. Are you sure we are supposed to come here? I mean there isn't much going on around here." Jesse said, as she emerged from the brush.

"It sure doesn't seem like it." Linda agreed as she followed Jesse.

The three of them jumped when Bob said, "There's more going on than you might think."

Just before he had spoken, Bob had holstered his pistol, and was glad he did. When he did speak, it took all of the girls by surprise. Linda recovered first and said,

"Where did you come from?"

"Oh, I've been here a while. I'm a member of a group that has been led to this place. We've been on the move for a while now. We were west of here in the mountains, but we've had to move out of where we were."

"We? Who are we? I only see you." Jesse wanted to know.

"Oh there are quite a few of us. We’re just over the hill. We've been waiting here for a couple of days. I think I know why now."

"What reason would that be?" Linda spoke again.

"You, I believe. Tell me something girls. Here we are out in the middle of nowhere, and all of a sudden, you show up. I heard you speaking as you came up the hill. Did Michael lead you here?"

"How do you know about that?" Amie asked.

"For now, I'd say that it is enough to say that you aren't the only ones that Michael has been speaking with."

"That sounds good. How can we be sure?" Linda again spoke.

"I'll tell you what. I know you have most likely been running for your lives lately. You have no reason to trust me. That being the case, I'm going to turn around and walk back up to the top of the hill. You ladies stay as far back from me as you like. When we get to the top, you can see for yourselves that I'm not alone, and that maybe you can trust me. Come on."

With that, Bob turned and began slowly walking. He listened carefully for a moment, and then heard the sounds of footsteps behind him. He smiled to himself. These girls were being cautious. Good for them.

At just about the time that Bob reached the hilltop, he heard his name called. Looking down the other side of the hill, a very noticeably pregnant Michelle came walking towards him. He called to her as the girls came up behind him, still keeping their distance.

"Michelle. What are you doing out here girl? Are you trying to make yourself sick?"

"There you are. Alex is busy helping Mom get things ready for another night here." She stopped speaking for a moment, when she noticed the girls for the first time. "Oh, hi there. Are you girls out here by yourselves?"

"Not any more it seems." Jesse answered. She looked at her sister and Linda. They both nodded their heads, slightly. The sight of a pregnant woman was the last thing they expected to see coming towards them. And the fact that she not only knew this man, but seemed to be comfortable with him, helped to put them all at ease.

"Well, are you girls’ hungry? I'm sure we have enough to have some company for supper."

"Starving." answered Jesse.

"Then come on. Supper is still hot." Michelle looked at Bob. "I think you need to speak with Kathy. There are some things she wanted to talk to you about."

"Later. Right now, supper seems like the most important thing. Ladies, will you join us?"
 

day late

money? whats that?
When he first heard of the capture of that town, Director Ives was quite happy. Then he was told that only six people had been taken prisoner. After that he was told that none of them had lived through the night. That was when he became angry. The people in the outer office started looking for reasons to be anyplace else. They heard how angry he became, and they heard how he took out his anger on his secretary. They heard his screams, and trembled. After a short time, Ives came out of his office and looked at the nearest functionary.

"YOU are my new secretary. Have the mess in my office cleaned up. Then I want to know how far the forces moving into the areas that have to be cleared have gotten."

"Yes Sir." The man said, "I'll have that information for you shortly."

"Make sure it is shortly."

Ives left the building. As he walked down the street he realized just how much had already been accomplished. In the short time he had been on earth this time, he, and the other directors had managed to reduce the American population by at least two thirds or more. America was certainly a third world country now. That was evidenced by the fact that the most common form of transportation and the most frequently stolen was the horse. In some of the outer regions the Americans had reverted to the wild west sort of law enforcement. Horse thieves were hung whenever they were found.

Food production was at an all time low, not only because of the lack of not only fertilizers, but farmers as well. Not only that but much of the food that had been grown this past season had rotted in the field because of the lack of transportation and people to pick the produce.

Christians were becoming very hard to find, but it was odd to say the least that just when he thought that all of them had been eliminated in an area, suddenly more of them would be found. It was frustrating to him that in many cases it seemed that the Nazarene was doing things to make people that had never even considered that religion or any religion for that matter, to start believing overnight. Not only that but these new believers were absolute fanatics. He had personally overseen the torture of a number of them. It didn't matter how badly he hurt them. They would not give up their faith, and often died with the Nazarenes name on their lips. He hated it when they did that.

And now, just when he thought that he had finally gotten rid of the ones that had been so protected by the Nazarene, he finds out that the town was virtually empty and because of the weather all traces of their trail had been wiped out, leaving them free to roam the countryside without concern for their lives. It was maddening.

On the other hand, the plan for introducing the Mark was going along quite well. Even Ives had been amazed at how many of these monkeys were ever so happy to stand in line for however long it took to get their chip. He smiled when he thought about how many of them actually had a party to celebrate the acceptance of the Mark. According to figures that he had seen of the remaining ninety million, more or less, Americans fully one quarter of them already had the Mark, and the majority of the rest were already on the waiting list to get their chip.

Yes, that part of the plan was going well now that the Christians weren't there to speak out against it. Once the Master managed to defeat the plan of the Nazarenes Father, then any of those people left would become easy prey for those who followed his Master. It was just a matter of time.

Bob found the tent being used by Kathy, Tim and their family. He knocked on the tent pole and called out to them.

"Anyone home?"

"Sure Bob. Come on in."

He ducked his head as he entered the tent, and found the parents were alone inside.

"Evening. I was told that you wanted to speak to me Kathy."

"Yes, I do. Bob, I don't know for sure just how far this has gone but I've been hearing a lot of remarks about this little trip of ours. People are complaining that we are just wandering aimlessly, and you don't have a clue as to where or when we are going to stop and settle down again."

"Well, they are partially right. I don't know where, when, or even if we are going to settle down. I just know that it is like it has been from the beginning. Without our guide, I don't try to go anywhere. What are they saying about the fact that so many people had the same dream on the same night which told us to hit the road?"

"Honestly, I think that is the only reason that nobody has stepped up to the plate to try to take your job. You should hear some of those conversations. They are unbelievable. Several people will get together, start criticizing you and blaming you for what is happening and then one of the dreamers will show up and announce that they know you are doing what you are led to do by The Lord. They will point out that they know because of their dream, and they have full confidence in you. After that, the talk just kind of dies out until next time."

"I guess I should have expected this. Makes me wonder how Moses put up with it. At least there are two good things. I don't have to deal with as many people as he did. Secondly, nobody is just sitting around waiting for the rapture anymore."

Tim spoke up. "You mean that you don't know?"

"Know what?"

"About the pool. Some of the people have started a pool of sorts on just how many days are left until we are taken out of here."

"What! Aside from the fact that the rapture isn't going to happen until the second coming, according to what Jesus Himself said in Matt. 24:29 - 31, what do they have that they could use to bet with?"

Kathy smiled. "They are betting on who will have to pour the wine for each other at the wedding supper."

Bob shook his head. As he started to speak again, something changed. Bob suddenly looked upward and said,

"I'm here."

After a moment of silence, he spoke again.

"I understand. I will do as He wants."

Bob then slumped into a chair. Kathy rushed to his side, asking,

"BOB! Are you alright?"

"What? Oh, Kathy. Yes I'm fine. Michael had something to tell me. It's kind of overwhelming when it happens. You guys need to get ready to move. We need to leave, tonight!"

"What? Bob, we don't have enough daylight left to get everything packed."

"I'm sorry Kathy. We don't have a choice."

There was a commotion outside the tent. Loud voices were heard. Major Ferguson suddenly burst into the tent.

"BOB! Did you hear?"

"Yes Major. Michael was just here."

"Michael? Bob, what are you talking about? There's a large group of men headed this way. I left Busby and a couple of others to keep an eye on them, but they will be here by morning." Ferguson said.

"I would say that is exactly what Michael was talking about. We've been instructed to move out within two hours."

"I hadn't heard about that, but I'm not surprised by it. There have to be close to two hundred armed men out there. They are on foot, but they are moving steadily in this direction. Looks like a recon in force, I'd say. If we are bugging out, I need to get Busby and the others back here."

"Go ahead and pull them in. We need to get a move on."

The word to pack up and be ready to move at once quickly passed through the camp by word of mouth. A number of people had taken advantage of the extended stay at this camp to unpack, and use numerous items. Now that the word came to leave in a hurry, some things couldn't be repacked in a short such a short time. What couldn't be quickly packed up was to be abandoned. It took less than the two hours that they had been given for everyone to be ready to go. As the last of the people finished their preparations, Lieutenant Busby and three others came trotting into what was left of the camp. None of them even asked what had happened, they simply swarmed onto the wagons and trailers as everything started to move.

While most items had been loaded onto the trucks, wagons, trailers and even horses, there were still obvious signs of recent occupation. However with such a short time to get ready, it couldn't be helped. They knew that if the men that were coming happened on to the spot there was no doubt they would realize what was going on and give chase.

"Major? I think we are ready. Can you think of anything we can do to cover our tracks on such short notice?" Bob asked.

"There is one thing. We should cut branches from these trees, and tie them to the back of each vehicle or trailer, so that they help wipe out our tracks. We can also try weighing them down a little so that they do a better job of it. The American Indians used tricks like that to elude the Army in their day."

"See to it." Bob said as he scratched his back.

"Yes Sir."

Looking at his watch, Bob spoke to Ferguson one more time.

"Major. I want you to bring up our rear. Should anything happen that might cause problems, like a vehicle break down, do whatever you feel is needed to keep things moving. I don't care if you have to hog tie someone and throw them over the back of a saddle, keep them moving."

"Will do. Look, don't get me wrong, but why me on rear guard?"

"It is a matter of authority. People might feel like they could argue with Lieutenant Busby or one of the others. They won't argue with you."

"Roger that."

Bob went to the S.U.V. to find his wife.

"Honey, I need you to drive for me. I assume you can handle a stick shift."

Maria smiled at him.

"Bob, I lived in those mountains for a long time. I was married to a trucker for over twenty years. I can handle it. What are you going to be doing?"

"Intense prayer, what else?"

With almost fifteen minutes left to their time limit the people gathered in the central portion of the former camp and waited for the word to move. Bob joined them with Pastor Jim at his side.

"Folks, I know this was unexpected, but there is no need to panic. The forces headed this way are on foot, and even now at least two to three hours behind us. Not only that we can move faster than they can with our vehicles and horses. We should be able to stay well ahead of them. Just the same, I've asked Jim to say a prayer for us before we leave. Pastor."

What followed was a short but highly sincere and heartfelt prayer for guidance and protection. Once everyone had said amen Bob raised his head and said,

"Alright. Lets' do it."

Lieutenant Busby led a mixed squad of Special Forces men and civilians that had been trained while in the town. Including some of the women that the Major had been training to fight. They took the point position and immediately moved out. Their job was to stay about a quarter of a mile ahead of the main group and through maintaining radio contact, scouted in whatever direction they were instructed to go.

Next, men and women were placed on each flank between eighty to a hundred yards out to make certain there weren't any forces that would spring an ambush. As the column moved out Major Ferguson and the people with him did what they could to erase all sign that the group had passed this way. He knew that if the men coming towards them were any good they would know within half an hour of finding this place they would have a good idea of just how many people they would be following. He stopped for a moment just before ordering his people to move out. Looking skyward he said,

"Father, we've done all we can. Please blind their eyes so they don't see this place. Thank You. Amen.

Then he and his people followed the rest.
Captain Rutherford's' men found the camp a little under three hours after Ferguson had pulled out. With the lateness of the day, he decided to set up camp for the night. Whoever had been here, they wouldn't get very far before it was too dark to travel. He knew that he and his men could probably catch up with them in the next day or so. Once they did, they would know what was what. There was no telling who had been here. He did know it wasn't a military camp. Tents had been pitched here and there, instead of in neat rows. So this had to be a group of civilians.

The question was why so many would be sneaking through the back country like this? If they were running from renegade Russian or Chinese troops, where were their pursuers? If not then why were they here? It was all explained to him when one of his men came to him later in the evening.

"Sir. Look what I just found." The man held out a small book for his inspection. It was a New Testament. Obviously it had been dropped by one of the people that had just left this place.

"Sergeant, pass the word. Christians ahead. It is going to be a short night and an early start in the morning. Everyone has to be ready for action at any time. Once we get to them, the loot will be shared equally, and any women found are for our pleasure. We don't have to worry about prisoners."

The Sergeant smiled coldly.

"I think they'd like that Sir."

"I'm sure they will. You have your orders."

The Christians went as far as they could that evening. When they finally stopped for the night, they were in a small valley that had a stream running through it. It was unusual for this time of year. Normally it would have been frozen nearly solid. The Christians individually thanked God as they filled water jugs and barrels.

However the people that had questioned Bobs' leadership now had fresh ammunition to use against him. In their minds clearly Bob wasn't doing his job right. If he had been, they wouldn't be running for their lives now. Another thing they didn't like was the place they had been told to stop for the night. They had just come down a narrow dirt road that wound back and forth in switchback fashion into a kind of valley that was almost bowl shaped. Around them on three sides the ground was higher than the position they were in. They knew enough to realize that it could well be a death trap.

Maria for her part had followed Bobs' instructions to the letter. As they traveled she listened to the instructions given by her husband to the teams on each flank, and the one on point. She didn't know why this place was chosen, but if this is where The Lord wanted them she wouldn't question it. She knew he was doing the right thing. When he wasn't talking on the radio he had been deep in prayer, and she didn't say a word for fear of disturbing him.

Things started to worse later that evening when Lieutenant Busby’s team came in. In no time at all word spread around the camp that there was another and larger group of men directly in their path. They were trapped between two forces and totally outnumbered.

During the night Maria would wake from time to time. She looked over to where Bob had been the last time, and he was still there praying. It was about three A.M. when she woke again, but this time Bob was sitting next to her.

"Hi. Been sitting there long?"

"About fifteen minutes."

"Any answers yet?"

"Maria, listen very carefully to me. I need to tell you something."

At this, she sat upright, wide awake.

"Sweetheart, you have to promise me something."

"Anything Dear. You know that."

"This is different. I don't know what is going to happen. What I have been told is that our enemies will catch up with us some time tomorrow morning. When they do we must not provoke them in any way."

"Bob, are you alright? Those people want to kill us all and you say not to do anything?"

"If I thought it would help, I'd be laying mines and setting booby traps this instant. But they won't help this time. We must trust The Lord."

Maria could see the earnestness in his eyes. She answered. "Alright. I won't even give them a harsh glance. But I can't say I like it." The she smiled at him and pulled off her night clothes. "Come to bed. We still have time before the sun comes up."

"Are you sure?"

"What's the matter? Afraid you're going to get me pregnant?"

"I guess it is a little late to worry about that."

"So, come to bed.”

It was a little after six A.M. when Bob woke Major Ferguson.

"What's wrong?" He asked.

"Major, I've gotten instructions about this morning. I know this sounds crazy, but you must follow these orders exactly."

"Yes Sir. What are my orders."

"I've written a statement, that I want you to read to the camp at eight o'clock. Then I want you to round up ever firearm in camp and place them under guard. Use any force you feel is necessary. Do you understand?"

"The order, yes. The reason, no."

"Read the statement, and all will be made clear. Now if you'll excuse me, I must get ready myself."

Ferguson lit a small lamp and began to read.

'My friends, we all know the situation. The enemy is both before and behind us. The Lord knows the spot we are in, and wants us to trust in Him. He wants me to remind you of what Moses said to the Children of Israel when they were at the Red Sea.

Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD,

My friends, we must all stand still and watch. For that reason, I've ordered Major Ferguson to collect every weapon in camp until this day’s events are past. I have gone to pray and make ready for what I must do, but I will be with you before the enemy comes. Give the Major your weapons, then stand still and watch.'

It was shortly before eleven A.M. when Captain Rutherford's men reached a ridge line just above the camp. All of the Christians stood in a group in the open. All of them that is, but one. A lone man stood out in front of them. He called out to them.

"HALT! In the name of the Most High God, I command you to drop your weapons and leave here now. If you fail to do so, and you will never leave here. So says The Lord."

"You see men." Rutherford shouted. "They are Christians. Kill that one first."

Many of the weapons along the line fired at Bob at nearly the same instant. At only about fifty yards, they didn't miss. Bob was hit by so many bullets, his shirt was shredded into rags. The impact of them lifted him off the ground and threw him backwards. He hit the ground, and remained motionless.

"Now men, lets' get them all. Charge!"
 

day late

money? whats that?
Chapter Twenty Three


Captain Rutherford and his men hadn't taken two steps before they felt the ground under them begin to tremble, and then violently shake. Someone cried out,

"Earthquake!"

He was right. It was what is known as an upthrust earthquake, during which one plate suddenly shifts upwards over the opposing plate.

Every one of both sides were knocked off their feet by the shaking. The ridge line where Rutherford’s men were standing cracked open and the portion of land nearest the Christian group heaved up. A sheer wall of stone raised itself sixty feet above them. The ground that Rutherford's' men were standing on gave way at the same time, as huge gash appeared in the earth. The men had been shaken so badly they had all fallen where they were standing, and the quake continued for what seemed like forever. As the tremor eased, a section of the new cliff face sheared off. A solid piece of stone, sixty feet high and over one hundred feet long toppled over on to them. There were no survivors.

As they lay on the ground waiting for it to stop, the Christians couldn't see what was happening on the other side of the newly form cliff. Kathy had been standing next to Bobs' pick up when it started. For reasons she could never explain, when the shaking started, she jumped into the truck. For protection she thought at the time. Later, she didn't know what to think.

Once the shaking had stopped, she looked though the windshield at Bob. Instinctively she reached for the key, and turned it. Before the engine had started the passenger door jerked open, and Barbara jumped in. Kathy stared at her for a moment, only to hear her say,

"Go! Go! Go!"

Kathy hammered the gas pedal. She was only barely aware that she passed first Alex, and then Maria as she headed for Bob. She knew in her heart it was useless, but she had to try. Slamming on the brakes, she came to a stop next to the lifeless body. As she looked at him, she knew it was hopeless. There were large holes in what was left of his chest, and jagged pieces of bone, which she knew must be what was left of his ribs, stuck out.

As she knelt next to him she didn't even bother to check for a pulse. There wasn't any point to it. The damage was just too bad. Nobody could live though what had happened to Bob. She heard Maria calling Bobs' name and the sound of her running footsteps, as well as those of Alex coming towards her. Glancing over her shoulder she saw the two of them, now neck and neck, running towards her. She glanced at Barbara and shouted,

"Stop them. At least let me get him covered."

Barbara turned and ran towards them.

"He's gone." She shouted at them.

Kathy stood and reached into the truck, behind the front seat. She pulled out a blanket and quickly covered the worst of the damage. Pieces of broken bone held the blanket above Bob’s chest. She left only his uninjured face exposed.

Maria pushed past Barbara without even noticing her, followed by Alex. Each of them knelt down next to him. Maria was sobbing and calling Bobs' name. Alex simply knelt wept. Maria turned to Kathy with an unanswerable question.

"Why would God let this happen to him? He did everything he was asked. Why did this happen?"

Again she began to sob.

It was at this point that Major Ferguson and Lieutenant Busby, along with many of the Special Forces men arrived at the scene. After looking at Bob, Ferguson turned to Busby.

"Make sure they are dead." Was all he said.

Hearing him, Maria pulled back the blanket from Bobs' waist. The ever present .44 Magnum was on his hip, snapped into its holster. She unsnapped it, pulled the heavy weapon out, stood, and called to Busby.

"Lieutenant. If any of them are alive, I want them."

Busby looked at Ferguson.

"Do it." He said.

Barbara was now next to Bobs' body, her head bowed and praying for him.

"Lord. This man has served you well. We need him to lead us. Please Father, give him back to us. Heal his body and return life to him."

Alex also bowed his head and joined her in the prayer.

Lieutenant Busby signed the other Special Forces men. They picked up their weapons from where they had been held on Bobs' order and moved at a fast trot to join him. One of them handed Busby his weapons, and together they moved to the edge of the cliff.

Maria went to her knees once again, cradling the large pistol in her hands. And she continued to ask;

"Why?"

Shortly, many of the people of the group came forward, and remained at a respectful distance from Maria and the rest, lost as to what they should say or do. Finally the men returned from the cliff. Major Ferguson didn't even look up as he said,

"Report.'

"Sir, I don't think there are any of them left. We could see two of them partially buried under a landslide. There is no sign of the rest. I think they are under it. It would take a lot of rope to get down there to check and be certain."

"Thank you. I don't think that will be necessary." He moved to Maria and placing his hand on her shoulder, he spoke softly. "Maria, I'm so sorry. Please, go back to the camp. My men and I know what to do. We'll call you when we're ready."

Maria stood, and without taking her eyes off of Bob said,

"Thank you, Major."

As Kathy walked over to Maria and put her arm around her, she started to lead her back to the camp. She noticed that many of the other members of the group had also turned away. She was at a loss of what to say as Maria asked her again.

"Why, Kathy? Why did God let this happen?"

"I wish I had an answer for you. Maybe we should ask Jim. I'm sure...” She paused as the sound she had been hearing became louder. “What is that noise?"

She turned and looked in Bobs' direction as a cracking, and popping noises she had been hearing became even louder. She was stunned as she watched the points of bone recede into Bobs' chest. Stopping, she grabbed Maria firmly and turning her around to see what was happening, she said,

"Maria! LOOK!"

After a couple of moments, all of the pieces of bone and tissue had reformed and knitted themselves together in Bobs' chest. Suddenly he gasped for breath. Without lifting his body off the ground he was heard to speak.

"That was AWESOME!"

Once again, everyone converged on Bob. Not believing what was happening before them. Seeing what was going on, Barbara and Alex began to praise The Lord and thank Him for His mercy.

Kathy reached Bobs' side and said,

"Bob! How can this be happening? You're dead."

"If you say so. Far be it from me to argue with my doctor.” Bob smiled at Kathy. “As a matter of fact, I promised you I wouldn't do that. Remember?"

That was enough for Maria. She fell down next to him and cradled him in her arms.

"Thank God." She cried. "You're alive."

"Not according to Kathy. Honey, you might want to let go of me. You're getting blood all over your shirt."

"I don't care. I have more. Are you alright?"

Bob sat up and looking at her answered.

"Well, in this weather I'm a little chilly without a shirt. Besides, this one is all wet with blood, and little more than rags. Think I could get a new one?

Bob accepted all the un-needed help in getting to his feet and walking back to the camp. Everyone had seen what happened to him, and most of them had gotten close enough to see his body. Now that he was alive again some of them pulled back in fear. But when many more started to kneel before him, he was shocked.

"Don't do that." He said to them. "I'm still the same man I was before. You should kneel only before God."

Without comment, they stood, and moved aside to let him pass.
Barbara had saved the tattered shirt he had been wearing, and began to try to rinse as much of the blood out of it as she could. When he noticed, Bob had to speak about it.

"Barbara. Just throw that away. It's useless."

She shook her head. "It's proof, Bob. It’s proof that God has chosen you to lead us. It needs to be saved in case anyone ever has any doubts."

"Well, alright. But if it ever looks like it is becoming some kind of relic, I'm going to burn it myself."

"Bob, when we talked this morning. How much of this did you know about?" Maria asked as she sponged the blood from his back.

Looking at his wife, Bob answered her. "I knew that we would be delivered by the Hand of God. I knew that He was going to use this incident to affirm my leadership, but I never expected to die."

"I'm glad to hear that.” Maria stopped for a moment, to inhale deeply. “Now you listen to me. IF YOU EVER do anything like that again, I don't care what you say. I'm going to be at your side, pregnant or not."

"And I've got your back." Alex commented. "Dad you don't know what that did to us."

"I think I do. I remember when your mother died. I was useless for months after that."

"Well, just don't do it again. Alright?"

"I promise I'll try not to ever get killed again. Unless that is The Lords' will. How is that?"

"Can't say I like it, but okay"

Major Ferguson spoke up.

"What do you remember?"

"Not much. I remember getting hit. The next thing I was about fifty feet up, looking down on all of this. I saw the earthquake. I saw those people get buried by a section of the cliff that fell. Oh! That reminds me. Major get everyone ready. I was told there will be two more quakes in the near future."

"Bob, I’ve never disobeyed you before but, not until I hear the rest of this story."

"Okay I think we have time. Anyway, after the quake the next thing I knew, I was in Heaven, I think. All I'm sure of is I found myself looking into the face of Jesus. Do you know how incredible His eyes are? When He looks at you, you know He is seeing more than the outside. It’s most amazing. At any rate, I was told that I couldn't stay. I had to return here. There were still things for me to do. He also said the reason this happened was because of the people that were beginning to question if I should be in charge. He wanted to show that I was chosen, not them."

As Maria had been cleaning the blood off of Bob's back, she noticed something.

"Bob. You aren't quite the same man you were before."

"I feel the same."

"Maybe so, but your scar is gone."

"Is it?"

"Your shoulder is as smooth as a baby’s bottom. Check it yourself."

He reached behind his back and ran his hand over the area.

"Well I'll be. I wonder if anything else has changed."


As Bob had said, there were two more earthquakes. One of them permanently blocked of any access to them by the other group of soldiers that had been coming towards them. The other shook loose more of the cliff and provided a way out of the bowl shaped area, in the direction they were to go.

It took an entire day for the group to make a path level enough for the trucks with their trailers and horse drawn wagons to make it down the slope of the new cliff, after the third earthquake. True to form, Bob joined in with the rest of them in clearing the slope although he did have to have a few words with Kathy before she would allow him to do it.

"Bob, you were dead! Now you want to go out there and work yourself to death? I can't allow it." She had proclaimed.

"Afraid I'm going to have a relapse and die again? Come on Kathy. You've examined me from top to bottom and front to back. Did you find anything at all wrong with me?"

"Well, no. But it isn't every day that a patient comes back from the dead either. I just want to make sure that you are really going to be alright."

"Kathy. Do you really believe that God does slip-shod work?"

"That's not fair Bob."

"Maybe not, but it is true. Isn't it?"

"Alright, alright. But you promise me that if you feel anything at all, and I mean even if it is only being a little dizzy, you'll stop work and come see me."

"I promise. But I wouldn't hold my breath if I were you. Like they say, God doesn't make mistakes."

She knew he was right, but just the same, Kathy carefully watched him for the first half of the day. As she did she was reminded of the time he had helped Tim clear the dead trees from their front yard. He never shirked his share of the work. In fact, he did more than his share and refused to quit until everyone else did. As he always said; 'Ever notice how good enough usually isn't?'. She suddenly realized that all of that had happened only a little more than one year ago. One year ago their whole world was at peace. Their children were in school, they had a full refrigerator, and both she and Tim were looking at the prospects of promotion in their jobs. How different things were now.

She also noticed two other things that didn't surprise her in the least. Alex was working side by side with his father, never getting more than a few feet away from him, and he never complained about the work.

Secondly, Maria came to the work site with Michelle far more often than was necessary. But the sight of the women helped to boost the morale of both father and son.

That brought to mind another thing. She was a dentist, not a doctor. True, she had more medical knowledge than anyone else, but she was still embarrassed that she had made the classic mistake of heartbeats. During an examination of Mike she had heard two heartbeats. So she announced the possibility of twins. It wasn't until later that she understood that she had indeed heard two heartbeats. One belonged to the baby, and the other to the mother. When she told Mike about it, she was surprised to hear of Mikes' relief.

"I'm not like you Kathy. You've already had four. This is my first. I was worried silly about how I was going to take care of two children."

Then there was the matter of sanitation. After Bob had made her the medical expert she had made Tim responsible for making sure the growing group kept things clean. Germs, after all, had killed far more people than bullets ever did.

At first the job was only making sure their children washed up whenever needed. However once the group had grown larger, Kathy was amazed to find out there were supposedly mature adults who seemed to be strangers to soap and water. Tim had gotten on them about it, to virtually no avail. They had cleaned up a little, but nobody wanted to live near them while they were still in Trinity. It was said, and Kathy knew it to be true, you knew when you were getting near their place. You could smell it at one hundred yards.

To be sure, they were very pleasant people. Everyone seemed to genuinely like them. But everyone did their best to stay up wind of them. Something needed to be done about the situation.

It was a couple of days later that she and Tim took their problems to Bob.

"Hi, Bob. Got a minute?"

"For the two of you, always. What can I do for you?"

Kathy sat in a folding chair near Bob and began to speak.

"Bob, I don't know that you can do anything, but I wanted you to be aware of a few problems."

"That's what I'm here for."

"As you know The Lord has been very good to us all. There have been no real medical emergencies since we started. The closest thing to an actual severe trauma was when the Timmons' boy fell off a rock and broke his arm back after the Chinese attacked us the first time. Before that, I'd never set a broken bone before. Thank The Lord two of the Majors men were trained for that type of thing. I learned a lot from those two. But we need to think about the future. And I mean specifically about the pregnancies."

"Oh? Are any of the mothers having problems?"

"Not that I know of. But the truth is, I'm a dentist, not a physician. Yes I'm a mother, and I know about child birth from that end, but I've never delivered a baby from the other. I think everyone would feel much more comfortable, and safer, if we had at least a mid-wife to help those of us that are expecting. I know I would."

Tim looked startled.

"Us? What is this 'us' all about?"

Realizing what she had said, Kathy turned red with embarrassment.

"Oh. I'm sorry. I was waiting for a better time to tell you. But yes, our family is growing again."

"Kathy, how did that happen? You've been on the pill for years."

She smiled at him.

"Sweetheart, I love you. But sometimes you can be a little slow. In case you haven't noticed, I haven't been able to get that prescription refilled for a long time now. And those things don't last forever you know."

Now it was Tim’s' turn to flush red.

"I guess you're right. I never thought about it. I mean since I don't take them it never occurred to me that it was a problem."

"So, are you upset?"

"Upset? No. Not at all. Surprised? Sure, but not upset. When are you due?"

"Now we are back to the main problem. I can't be sure, but I'd say about seven and a half months from now." She looked at Bob to address the doctor situation again and found him grinning at them. "What are you smiling about?"

"It is just nice to know that I'm not the only one in the unexpected fatherhood boat. Here's wishing the best to all seven of you."
 

day late

money? whats that?
Director Ives couldn't believe that things were progressing so fast, and so smoothly. That might be the reason he had been advised by the Master of the future events and warned to be ready for them.

Since there weren't many Christians left, most of the people on earth completely missed the importance of the massive earthquake that had hit Turkey. While it had not taken as many lives as was first feared, it had changed the course of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. They had joined together near the headwaters, and now emptied into the Black Sea. Everything downstream from there was rapidly drying up. Those who thought of it at all were mainly concerned about the people in Iraq. What would they do without the water that had always been provided by the rivers? None of them knew the prophecy about the rivers drying up to make way for the kings of the east.

Ives knew that the time of revealing the antichrist must be near. Drying up those rivers made it possible for the Chinese to bring their armies into the region of the Middle East. If there were any American forces in the region, by now they were so badly reduced in number and short on supplies and equipment, that they wouldn't be any problem. And that would begin the last phase of World War III.

Since one of the things they had lost when they were forced to retreat from America was a new source of oil. The Chinese needed that oil and because they were now the most powerful country on the planet, they felt the oil belonged to them by right. They weren't going to pay for what they felt they already owned. With an army of two hundred million no one was going to argue about it. Or not for long, at any rate.

He also knew that his time in this cursed land was drawing to a close. This winter was proving to be the worst ever seen on the continent. With food already in short supply due to the war, the people here starting to starve. The problem wasn't made any easier when it was discovered, the hard way, that there were more Russian and Chinese troops around than had been suspected. The bad weather kept what supplies the Americans had been able to claim from getting anywhere that they were needed. The nice part for him was that nobody blamed him for the situation.

After all, hadn't it been Ives who had discovered the food and other supplies which had been left behind by the Russians and Chinese when they had pulled out? Wasn't it Ives that had masterminded the plan to retrieve those supplies? Was it his fault the number of left behind soldiers was greater than had been thought at first? Didn't his plan include defending the men sent to get those supplies? No, none of this could be blamed on him. It wasn't his fault that because of war and weather that famine was slowly spreading across the country. At the rate it was going, it was feared that the number of the newly dead would soon vastly outnumber the living. The only thing that Ives was really upset about was he hadn't been able to get rid of the Americans as fast as he would have liked, and he couldn't be sure he had reduced the Christian population to less than the hated ten percent.

Once this was accomplished, he would at long last leave this place for a new assignment. Perhaps even the one he had wanted all along. In Jerusalem.


From the time that they had left the town Bob had made sure that the convoy had stopped about every hour and a half. If for no other reason, the children needed a bathroom break. It had slowed their progress, but everyone was glad for the break. Especially the children.

"I wish we had some idea of where we are." Tim said to Bob and Major Ferguson. "What I wouldn't give for a G.P.S. right now."

"Be glad you don't have one." Bob said.

"Why is that? At least we'd know where we are."

"Tim. Those things work two ways. You contact the satellite, and the satellite tells you where you are at, right?" Ferguson said.

"Of course, that’s just like the cell phones."

"What happens if someone has access to that satellite and they have the skills to find out what it told you?"

"I hardly think that would happen."

"Tim, as near as I can figure it, we are either in or near Yellowstone National Park. The Park has been closed for some time now. So why would someone be using a G.P.S. out here?"

"I didn't think about it that way."

"Trust me. Our enemies have."

"Besides Tim, we are right where we are supposed to be. We're in Gods' hands." Bob said.

It was during one of these breaks that word reached Bob, from the point team, of a possible problem. There was a cabin along their route of travel. Smoke was seen coming from the chimney, so they knew the place was occupied. Bob and Major Ferguson moved out ahead of the group to have a look at it. After lowering the binoculars the Major asked Bob,

"What do you think?"

"Well, I have a few thoughts. First, that cabin has been there for a long time. A hundred years or more. Second, it has obviously had certain upgrades over the years. New windows are a dead giveaway of that. Then again, we have a cabin out here in here middle of nowhere that has people in it. So the question is are the holed up waiting for us to show up, or are they like us and trying to hide from the government? Either way, caution would seem to be the order of the day."

"I agree.” Ferguson told him. Then he added, “You know there is only one way to find out about whoever is in there."

"Yeah, I know. Who do you think I should take with me?"

"You won't like what I have to say.”
"Why?"
“I don't think you should go. I think we need to send in some of the civilians. I also think that Alex should lead the way. Bob, everyone has to face their baptism of fire sooner or later. Right now we have the advantage of numbers and surprise. What better time to find out about them?"

"You're right Major. I don't like it. But I can’t argue with you either. Pick the people you want to go. Get them ready."


Alex's mouth was dry. He knew that if he had to hold out his hand, it would be shaking. He also knew that there was a job to be done, and it was his job. He didn't want to embarrass his father. He signed some of the people to move around to the rear of the building. Others he signed to follow him. He couldn't believe how scared he was and wondered if others like the Major, ever felt like he did now.

It wasn't like this in the movies. The only time he had ever done anything like this was when he and his father first entered the town. Ever since then, every time he had to shoot at a man, he had been in a hole or behind something that offered protection. This time he was the one in the open. He visually searched every opening in the cabin. He saw no sign that he was being watched.

"How do you want to do this?" Mike Timmons asked quietly. "I can take the front door if you want."

"No. I'll do it. No offense, but with that scar of yours, you might put them off. If they are in hiding like us, well, we don't want to scare off anybody that might be able to help."

"Alright. What do you want us to do?"

Alex thought quickly. "You stay a little back from the porch and cover me. Stay where you can get a clear shot. I'll stay back a bit from the doorway and try to stay out of the line of fire." He turned to the woman on his other side. "Sarah, I want you to do the same from the other side."

"You got it." She answered.

"Alright. Don't be too quick on the trigger. There isn't anything to say which side they might be on. You two get into position, and then I'll move up."

In moments the two people were in position and waiting for him. Taking a deep breath and then letting it out slowly, he then stood and walked up to the cabin door as quietly as he could. He actually startled himself when his boot thumped on the first step. Pausing to see if it caused a reaction, he then continued forward.

As he said he would, he stopped as far from the doorway as possible and resisted the urge to check the people behind him. Not only was it too late for that, if someone were watching him, he didn't want to give away the presence of the others. Reaching out, he knocked on the door. To his surprise, there was no sign of life from the cabin. He knocked a second time. There was still no answer.

"Hello in the cabin." He called. "We mean you no harm. We know you are there by the smoke. Will you talk to us?"

Still there was nothing. Alex considered what to do next. He didn't want to just break in the door without knowing something about what was on the other side. He knew there had to be someone there. Nobody would just go off and leave a fire burning. Not if they wanted to have a home when they got back. He was about to knock again when something inside fell and crashed to the floor.

"Okay, do you want to admit you're here now?"

Alex heard the sound of whispered voices inside.

"We don't have anything for you to steal. Go away." A female voice suddenly said.

"We don't want to steal anything. We're lost. We just need directions."

"The nearest town is southeast of here. It's about a two day walk."

"Please, can you open the door? Look if we wanted to do any harm, would I be standing out here in the snow knocking?"

There were more whispers from inside. Then the sound of a bar of some sort being pulled back. The doorknob slowly turned and the door opened enough for Alex to see the end of a pistol poke out.

"If you're lying, you'll die first."

"I'm not lying. We just need to know where we are." Alex looked at the revolver closely. "Besides, how are you going to shoot me with an empty gun?"

"It's not empty."

"I can see the cylinder. That thing is empty. Please, can we talk?"

"Let him in darling. He knows we are unarmed. And no doubt they out number us. Talking seems like a good idea."

"Alright, Grand mom." The pistol pulled back into the doorway. "Come in."

As he entered the cabin, Alex saw a young woman about his age. She put down the empty pistol and picked up a poker from the fireplace. While she didn't threaten him with it, she held it ready for use. Looking around he saw an older woman sitting on a bed with one leg both bandaged and elevated. He spoke to her.

"Thank you, Ma'am. We really mean no harm."

"I believe you. I could hear several people outside. I take it your guns are loaded."

"Yes Ma'am. There's lots of unpleasant people and animals out there."

"Maybe you're one of them." The girl said.

"Darling, put that thing down. If this young man wanted to hurt us we'd already be in trouble." Looking at Alex she smiled and continued. "You have to forgive my granddaughter. She’s become a little over protective since I got hurt."

"I understand Ma'am. How did you do that?" He said pointing to her leg.

"Oh I got careless while chopping some firewood. Um, you folks wouldn't happen to have a few clean bandages you could spare, do you?"

"Promise me that she won't hit me, and I think we can do a little better than that."

"She won't. I said put it down dear."

Alex reached into his pocket and pulled out a radio.

"Dad, there isn't anything here that is going to harm us, but could you send Kathy and Barbara up here? One of these people has been hurt."

"They'll be there in a minute. What's wrong? Kathy needs to know."

"A really bad cut on the leg."

"Alright. They are on the way."

Putting down the radio, Alex asked, "May I talk to the people outside? I'd like to let them know what's going on."

"Go ahead, son."

Alex opened the door, and called out.

"Everyone relax. Everything’s fine. Just be watching for Kathy and Barbara to come up. We have an injured person in here."
 

day late

money? whats that?
Kathy lifted her head and talked to the injured woman.

"You're very fortunate. It's deep, but you didn't hit any major blood vessels. There isn't any sign of infection. All in all I'd say you've done a good job of taking care of it. If you'll let me, I'd like to put in a few stitches to close it and help keep it clean."

The woman looked at Kathy closely and said, "I would have done it myself but I don't have any sutures."

"Sutures? Most people just say stitches. Do you have medical training?"

"Oh my yes darling. I was an E.R. nurse for close to thirty years. But if you don't mind me saying so, you do have training, but you don't seem to be a doctor."

"I'm a dentist."

"Well, aren't you working on the wrong end then?" She asked with a twinkle in her eye.

"If you want me to, I can stop."

"No, no. You just keep on doing what you're doing. It's more than I can do."

"Alright, Barbara, would you bring the surgical kit over here?"

As Kathy worked, the woman watched carefully but without comment until she had finished.

"Darling that is one fine job you did there. I thank you for the help. Oh, where are my manners. I'm Jewel. The suspicious one over there is Cindy."

"I'm pleased to meet you Jewel. I'm Kathy and I'm sure you already heard my assistant is Barbara. You don't sound like you are from around here. May I ask where you're from?"

"I'm a Georgia peach, born and raised. Although maybe not as sweet as I once was. What about you folks?"

Kathy gave her a short version of what had happened to them all, while carefully leaving out the mention of them being Christians. So she was more than a little surprised when Jewel spoke again.

"Sounds like The Lord has been good to y'all. I know it was a God send you showed up here."

"You're Christian?"

"That we are, sweetheart. And before you ask, this fellow named Michael showed up last night and told us help was coming. I guess you must be it."

"Michael sure does get around, doesn't he?"

"Why he's an arch angel. He can do pretty much what he wants. Long as The Lord allows that is."

Jewel and Cindy were very happy to learn about the group. And Bob, Kathy and the rest were she felt more than generous in what they provided for them. Food had been growing short, and Cindy had been very worried about it. There was no more ammunition for their rifle or pistol. And they had begun to hear wolves in the night. One thing that Bob had not expected was almost having to twist the arms of the ladies to get them to come with the group.

"Son, what would you want with a crippled up old woman like me?"

"Jewel, in case nobody has told you, we have several women in various stages of pregnancy. Including Kathy, by the way. What we don't have is someone with experience in delivery. You don't have the supplies to take care of that leg, and you need help getting food in. It sounds to me like The Lord has provided for both of us at the same time."

"Could be, could be. I've delivered more than one in my time."

"What do you say then? Will you join up with us?"

Before she could answer, Bobs' radio came to life.

"DAD! Mikes' water just broke. I think she is in labor."

"You didn't tell me any of them were that far along.” Jewel exclaimed. “Get that poor child in here. We can't have a baby being born out there in the snow."

Later that night, with Jewel looking over her shoulder giving advice, Kathy delivered her first baby. By morning, Alex was sitting in a chair next to his sleeping wife with his brand new daughter in his arms.

"Jewel, I want to thank you for your help last night." Bob said softly.

"Well, after what y'all have done for us, what else could I do?"

"Won't you come with us? Obviously we'll need to be here for a while for Michelle's sake. Anyway that will give you time to heal up a little more. And when we leave, please come with us. We need each other."

Jewel shook her head in amazement. "The Lord surely does work in mysterious ways. All right. We'll travel with you."



Director Ives was only a little surprised when the invitation came from the new United Nations headquarters in Rome. After New York had been totally destroyed, the nations of the world had chosen Rome to re-establish the international body, in hopes of ending the terrible war that had ravaged America. With many of the heads of world governmental bodies present, it was only natural that Ives would be asked to come. The thing that really shook him up was when the messenger of the master had shown up. What was said was even more surprising.

"The Master has a new assignment for you. Don't ask me why after the way you botched so many things in America. I'm here to tell you that he has decided to give you another chance."

"What is the assignment? Is he sending me to Jerusalem?" Ives asked hopefully.

The messenger laughed at Ives.

"Jerusalem? Why would you think that? You can't actually believe he would trust someone like you with such an important job. No, you will be here in Rome. You have shown you can manipulate these monkeys and that will be useful to him in this new world order of his. The replacement for the Nazarene is ready to take his place. He will need you here to make sure all of his plans come off like he wants them to happen."

"I will do as he wishes." Ives said. Disappointment was clearly present in his voice.

"There is one more thing. You will have to give up this body. It wouldn't be appropriate to your new assignment."

"I can't wait for that. I don't know how these creatures can put up with it. They are so feeble and weak."

"That's because they don't know the power that the Master offers to those who serve him."

"What about those ones who actually worship him?"

"You can't be that stupid. You know what these pitiful things are like. They say they worship him. What they really want is the power he offers for their own purposes. Much like that last president of America. The Master will not have anyone challenge his power."

"So when do I get the new body?"

"Soon. That one won't make it back to America."



As the aircraft reached cruising altitude after leaving European airspace, Ives leaned his seat back and closed his eyes. He considered what would happen next. The Nazarenes' replacement had been shown to him. He was a fierce looking fellow who, unlike the rest of the fallen ones, had no use for these human females. Even though he had yet to take his rightful place in Jerusalem, the humans were already beginning to understand he wasn't like any of their kind. And the monkeys were so stupid they couldn't even see the contradictions in him. He claimed to be a man of peace. He even had plans for ending the global war and making the Chinese lose this war and be driven back to their own country. Yet he worships the 'god of war'. Ives considered how stupid even his own servants were. Since they didn't read the Nazarenes' book, they didn't have a clue as to what was going to happen next. Well that suited him just fine. He smiled to himself and prepared to leave this body. It wasn't important that he be here when the plane fell from the sky. There would be no survivors. In this way nobody would suspect that he would now be elsewhere serving the Masters prophet.

Just as he thought, the people on the plane whose job it was to meet Ives every need didn't know they would be dead in less than an hour. In fact, as they looked on his face while he was asleep, they were comforted by the peaceful look they found there. They believed that Ives had received good news in Rome, and they would all soon in another place doing something else.

In a way, they were right on both counts.



The group ended up staying in the area of the cabin for a week. The first several days were for the purpose of allowing Michelle to recover from her delivery. During this time Alex and Michelle decided that the only reasonable thing to do was name their new baby girl Kathy Jewel. Both women were flattered and considered the honor of the first name should go to the other woman. It was settled when Michelle told them why that name was chosen.

"If it wasn't for Kathy, it could have had a much worse. Thanks to Jewel, we had a safe, warm, and dry place to bring this child into the world."

Kathy looked at Alex.

"So what do you say about it? Wouldn't you like it more if the baby was named after your mother?"

"Mike never met Mom. So the name would only be meaningful to me. Besides, you know what they say. 'If Momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy.' That settles it. You have a namesake Kathy. Get used to it."

Jewel and Cindy ended up being happy for the company, in spite of the shaky start. They had been alone for quite some time and appreciated the update on all the news they had missed. Even if it wasn't always the best news.

After Michelle said she was ready to move on, both Kathy and Jewel overrode her choice and insisted to Bob that they wait at least another forty eight hours. True to his word, Bob refused to go against the medical advice.

When they finally got moving again Jewel was placed in one of the wagons rather than either a truck or the S.U.V. Cindy, at first, protested having her grandmother exposed to the cold weather, but Jewel herself put a quick stop to that.

"Child, tell me something. Which of these pregnant women do you want in that wagon? Maybe you'd like Michelle and her new baby girl out in the cold? No? Alright then, ask Bob what supplies he thinks we can do without so I can ride in a truck."

The argument ended there. As they all began to move once more, Bob got a call on his radio from Tim.

"Bob, have you noticed the gas gage?"

"I was wondering when you'd see that. Yes I know. The gages are starting to drop."

"What do you think it means?"

"I think it means we are getting close to our final destination, what else?"

Bob was of course right. Within two days he called a halt to the traveling. They had made it to a valley, which was perfectly suited to their needs. The cliff sides were complete with a number of caves that could be easily converted to living quarters. There were also sheltered ravines that could be used for housing with a little more work. Being a heavily wooded valley, logs for the homes could be brought in with only minimal effort.

More importantly a river ran through the valley that was deep, clean, and fresh. Even better, not far away were a series of hot springs which would allow bathing at any time of year.

Within a week the caves had been converted, and though crowded with everyone in them, they provided shelter while the matter of building homes could be tackled.

One evening Bob was sitting with a gathering of different members of the group in a communal cave and he listened as others spoke. Until one man said something he couldn't let pass.

"I wonder how long we have left until the Tribulation is over."

"Friend, you've got that all wrong. The Tribulation hasn't even started yet."

"What? I'm sorry Bob, but with all we've been through, how can you say that?"

"It's a matter of scripture. The Tribulation begins when the antichrist takes control of the world. All governmental powers surrender their authority to him. That hasn't happened yet. What we have been through so far is known as 'The Time of Jacobs Trouble', not the Tribulation."

"If that's true, what is going to happen to us?"

Bob bowed his head for a moment and prayed. Then looking upwards he said,

"Thank you Lord. Folks come with me for a minute." He stood and walked out of the cave. "Take a look for yourselves."

As the people looked at the ridges around the valley, they couldn’t believe their eyes. They saw huge men in white robes, holding flaming swords. Speechless they followed Bob back into the cave after he let them look for several minutes. He then turned and went back into the cave. He waited for them all to come back in before he spoke.

"Friends, we have reached a place of refuge provided by The Lord, Himself. If you don't believe me, or the evidence of your own eyes, there is only one thing I can suggest. Read the Book of Revelation."
 

Lone_Hawk

Resident Spook
Kathy lifted her head and talked to the injured woman.

"You're very fortunate. It's deep, but you didn't hit any major blood vessels. There isn't any sign of infection. All in all I'd say you've done a good job of taking care of it. If you'll let me, I'd like to put in a few stitches to close it and help keep it clean."

The woman looked at Kathy closely and said, "I would have done it myself but I don't have any sutures."

"Sutures? Most people just say stitches. Do you have medical training?"

"Oh my yes darling. I was an E.R. nurse for close to thirty years. But if you don't mind me saying so, you do have training, but you don't seem to be a doctor."

"I'm a dentist."

"Well, aren't you working on the wrong end then?" She asked with a twinkle in her eye.

"If you want me to, I can stop."

"No, no. You just keep on doing what you're doing. It's more than I can do."

"Alright, Barbara, would you bring the surgical kit over here?"

As Kathy worked, the woman watched carefully but without comment until she had finished.

"Darling that is one fine job you did there. I thank you for the help. Oh, where are my manners. I'm Jewel. The suspicious one over there is Cindy."

"I'm pleased to meet you Jewel. I'm Kathy and I'm sure you already heard my assistant is Barbara. You don't sound like you are from around here. May I ask where you're from?"

"I'm a Georgia peach, born and raised. Although maybe not as sweet as I once was. What about you folks?"

Kathy gave her a short version of what had happened to them all, while carefully leaving out the mention of them being Christians. So she was more than a little surprised when Jewel spoke again.

"Sounds like The Lord has been good to y'all. I know it was a God send you showed up here."

"You're Christian?"

"That we are, sweetheart. And before you ask, this fellow named Michael showed up last night and told us help was coming. I guess you must be it."

"Michael sure does get around, doesn't he?"

"Why he's an arch angel. He can do pretty much what he wants. Long as The Lord allows that is."

Jewel and Cindy were very happy to learn about the group. And Bob, Kathy and the rest were she felt more than generous in what they provided for them. Food had been growing short, and Cindy had been very worried about it. There was no more ammunition for their rifle or pistol. And they had begun to hear wolves in the night. One thing that Bob had not expected was almost having to twist the arms of the ladies to get them to come with the group.

"Son, what would you want with a crippled up old woman like me?"

"Jewel, in case nobody has told you, we have several women in various stages of pregnancy. Including Kathy, by the way. What we don't have is someone with experience in delivery. You don't have the supplies to take care of that leg, and you need help getting food in. It sounds to me like The Lord has provided for both of us at the same time."

"Could be, could be. I've delivered more than one in my time."

"What do you say then? Will you join up with us?"

Before she could answer, Bobs' radio came to life.

"DAD! Mikes' water just broke. I think she is in labor."

"You didn't tell me any of them were that far along.” Jewel exclaimed. “Get that poor child in here. We can't have a baby being born out there in the snow."

Later that night, with Jewel looking over her shoulder giving advice, Kathy delivered her first baby. By morning, Alex was sitting in a chair next to his sleeping wife with his brand new daughter in his arms.

"Jewel, I want to thank you for your help last night." Bob said softly.

"Well, after what y'all have done for us, what else could I do?"

"Won't you come with us? Obviously we'll need to be here for a while for Michelle's sake. Anyway that will give you time to heal up a little more. And when we leave, please come with us. We need each other."

Jewel shook her head in amazement. "The Lord surely does work in mysterious ways. All right. We'll travel with you."



Director Ives was only a little surprised when the invitation came from the new United Nations headquarters in Rome. After New York had been totally destroyed, the nations of the world had chosen Rome to re-establish the international body, in hopes of ending the terrible war that had ravaged America. With many of the heads of world governmental bodies present, it was only natural that Ives would be asked to come. The thing that really shook him up was when the messenger of the master had shown up. What was said was even more surprising.

"The Master has a new assignment for you. Don't ask me why after the way you botched so many things in America. I'm here to tell you that he has decided to give you another chance."

"What is the assignment? Is he sending me to Jerusalem?" Ives asked hopefully.

The messenger laughed at Ives.

"Jerusalem? Why would you think that? You can't actually believe he would trust someone like you with such an important job. No, you will be here in Rome. You have shown you can manipulate these monkeys and that will be useful to him in this new world order of his. The replacement for the Nazarene is ready to take his place. He will need you here to make sure all of his plans come off like he wants them to happen."

"I will do as he wishes." Ives said. Disappointment was clearly present in his voice.

"There is one more thing. You will have to give up this body. It wouldn't be appropriate to your new assignment."

"I can't wait for that. I don't know how these creatures can put up with it. They are so feeble and weak."

"That's because they don't know the power that the Master offers to those who serve him."

"What about those ones who actually worship him?"

"You can't be that stupid. You know what these pitiful things are like. They say they worship him. What they really want is the power he offers for their own purposes. Much like that last president of America. The Master will not have anyone challenge his power."

"So when do I get the new body?"

"Soon. That one won't make it back to America."



As the aircraft reached cruising altitude after leaving European airspace, Ives leaned his seat back and closed his eyes. He considered what would happen next. The Nazarenes' replacement had been shown to him. He was a fierce looking fellow who, unlike the rest of the fallen ones, had no use for these human females. Even though he had yet to take his rightful place in Jerusalem, the humans were already beginning to understand he wasn't like any of their kind. And the monkeys were so stupid they couldn't even see the contradictions in him. He claimed to be a man of peace. He even had plans for ending the global war and making the Chinese lose this war and be driven back to their own country. Yet he worships the 'god of war'. Ives considered how stupid even his own servants were. Since they didn't read the Nazarenes' book, they didn't have a clue as to what was going to happen next. Well that suited him just fine. He smiled to himself and prepared to leave this body. It wasn't important that he be here when the plane fell from the sky. There would be no survivors. In this way nobody would suspect that he would now be elsewhere serving the Masters prophet.

Just as he thought, the people on the plane whose job it was to meet Ives every need didn't know they would be dead in less than an hour. In fact, as they looked on his face while he was asleep, they were comforted by the peaceful look they found there. They believed that Ives had received good news in Rome, and they would all soon in another place doing something else.

In a way, they were right on both counts.



The group ended up staying in the area of the cabin for a week. The first several days were for the purpose of allowing Michelle to recover from her delivery. During this time Alex and Michelle decided that the only reasonable thing to do was name their new baby girl Kathy Jewel. Both women were flattered and considered the honor of the first name should go to the other woman. It was settled when Michelle told them why that name was chosen.

"If it wasn't for Kathy, it could have had a much worse. Thanks to Jewel, we had a safe, warm, and dry place to bring this child into the world."

Kathy looked at Alex.

"So what do you say about it? Wouldn't you like it more if the baby was named after your mother?"

"Mike never met Mom. So the name would only be meaningful to me. Besides, you know what they say. 'If Momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy.' That settles it. You have a namesake Kathy. Get used to it."

Jewel and Cindy ended up being happy for the company, in spite of the shaky start. They had been alone for quite some time and appreciated the update on all the news they had missed. Even if it wasn't always the best news.

After Michelle said she was ready to move on, both Kathy and Jewel overrode her choice and insisted to Bob that they wait at least another forty eight hours. True to his word, Bob refused to go against the medical advice.

When they finally got moving again Jewel was placed in one of the wagons rather than either a truck or the S.U.V. Cindy, at first, protested having her grandmother exposed to the cold weather, but Jewel herself put a quick stop to that.

"Child, tell me something. Which of these pregnant women do you want in that wagon? Maybe you'd like Michelle and her new baby girl out in the cold? No? Alright then, ask Bob what supplies he thinks we can do without so I can ride in a truck."

The argument ended there. As they all began to move once more, Bob got a call on his radio from Tim.

"Bob, have you noticed the gas gage?"

"I was wondering when you'd see that. Yes I know. The gages are starting to drop."

"What do you think it means?"

"I think it means we are getting close to our final destination, what else?"

Bob was of course right. Within two days he called a halt to the traveling. They had made it to a valley, which was perfectly suited to their needs. The cliff sides were complete with a number of caves that could be easily converted to living quarters. There were also sheltered ravines that could be used for housing with a little more work. Being a heavily wooded valley, logs for the homes could be brought in with only minimal effort.

More importantly a river ran through the valley that was deep, clean, and fresh. Even better, not far away were a series of hot springs which would allow bathing at any time of year.

Within a week the caves had been converted, and though crowded with everyone in them, they provided shelter while the matter of building homes could be tackled.

One evening Bob was sitting with a gathering of different members of the group in a communal cave and he listened as others spoke. Until one man said something he couldn't let pass.

"I wonder how long we have left until the Tribulation is over."

"Friend, you've got that all wrong. The Tribulation hasn't even started yet."

"What? I'm sorry Bob, but with all we've been through, how can you say that?"

"It's a matter of scripture. The Tribulation begins when the antichrist takes control of the world. All governmental powers surrender their authority to him. That hasn't happened yet. What we have been through so far is known as 'The Time of Jacobs Trouble', not the Tribulation."

"If that's true, what is going to happen to us?"

Bob bowed his head for a moment and prayed. Then looking upwards he said,

"Thank you Lord. Folks come with me for a minute." He stood and walked out of the cave. "Take a look for yourselves."

As the people looked at the ridges around the valley, they couldn’t believe their eyes. They saw huge men in white robes, holding flaming swords. Speechless they followed Bob back into the cave after he let them look for several minutes. He then turned and went back into the cave. He waited for them all to come back in before he spoke.

"Friends, we have reached a place of refuge provided by The Lord, Himself. If you don't believe me, or the evidence of your own eyes, there is only one thing I can suggest. Read the Book of Revelation."

I read some of these years ago, but lost some of them as time went on. Thank you so much for pulling them all together here! May God bless you and yours!
 

Charmer153

Contributing Member
I remember reading this a long time ago, but it was not finished then. I am glad to see it is now.
 
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