The animal pens were overflowing with the addition of sheep, cows, and several horses. Next to the pens were piles of fencing materials and two massive loads of hay. Three more 9 foot high, 40 foot long shipping containers had been placed next to each other as a makeshift barn. Dave quickly cut out the nonessential walls between them with a plasma cutter and had placed a Franklin stove in the back to heat the structure. A raised roof could be added later if it seemed necessary.
To the sides were placed two more storage containers to make up part of the walls of the new pen and to eventually provide more shelter for the animals. For now they were packed with animal feed.
Rob found Manny that morning near Needles, California. They had abandoned Manny’s truck and brought his cargo trailer in with Jim’s truck. When Rob and Manny showed Jim the contents that afternoon, he almost fell over. The load was almost entirely firearms, ammo, and military uniforms and equipment. It seemed way over the top. Jim wondered yet again what he had gotten himself into.
Rob took Jim aside and said, "Manny grew up in the Philippines and joined the US Navy before Subic Bay was closed. I snatched him up when he retired a couple of years ago. He's quirky, but the guy is a genius. You'll get a kick out of him, just don't get him started on Elvis, ok?"
"I'll keep that in mind. It'll be good to have another grownup around, anyway."
DECEMBER 14th
The next morning everyone cycled through the pub grill to eat a fantastic breakfast. It was like feeding a small army. They met around the fire pit afterward.
Jim looked the group over. Rob’s people were tough, but they were here with their families. They were all scared stiff of what was around the corner. It showed in their faces and in their movement.
Jim spoke to the group. “I wanted to take a moment to welcome everyone. As you know, Rob talked us out of the decadent Vegas lifestyle we love to come freeze our butts off and play pioneer with you folks. We’re going to be insanely busy over the next few days, but I want you to know that we are delighted to have you here to help shovel snow and cow crap. Susan and I are looking forward to getting to know all of you and as far as we’re concerned, you’re all family.”
A booming voice in the back said, “Oh, shit!” and everyone laughed.
Jim answered, “Especially you, Reaper. Whatever comes, we’ll deal with it together. Let us know what you need and of any issues early on so we can fix them before they fester. This is your home, too, for however long you need it.”
Rob stepped up and said, ”Let’s hear it for out hosts and that amazing breakfast!” There were cheers all around. “Now to work. From here on out, every day that we can gather more supplies is a gift. I don’t know how many more we’ll have. And don't you worry, Helen and Julie already have the pub and hot tub angles covered." There were more cheers at this.
Rob waited for quiet and continued. “For now the mission is to plant ourselves here and survive. We can do that with what we have right now, but not as well as I would like. Will has the work lists for today.
“We have EMP hardened storage, so you will want to make sure anything with a chip ends up there until after that risk is over. We expect about a 90% chance of an EMP to take out the satellites, so take it seriously.
“Once your list is done, start improvising and get your own supplies lined up. After dark is your own time, and I recommend that you pick up whatever you think you need. Remember not to draw attention to yourselves. Again, be careful about flashing cash around and avoid law enforcement contact. No speeding, Matt. Shop fast and move on quickly. If you can think of anything that we haven’t covered, pipe up and let us know. Now let’s get a move on.”
It was a productive day. Some of Rob’s crew surprised everyone by showing up with two gas company trucks full of liquid propane, another truck full of helicopter fuel, and a semi with two fuel trailers full of diesel. Jim looked at Rob, only to get the response, “Don’t worry, they paid for the trucks, or at least killed the GPS tracking devices first if they didn’t.” All three trucks were painted in forest colors and hidden under trees within an hour of arriving. Jim suspected that they didn't.
By the end of the day there were five more water trucks and twenty two 10,000 gallon water tanks placed in two rows on a large leveled lot, though only half of them were filled so far.
A triple wide mobile home was on property, but would have to wait for assembly until another lot was cleared. When asked what it was for, Rob said, “We need a headquarters building.”
Helen brought in three single wide mobile home style office buildings. She filled one of them with rows of sofas with each row placed several inches higher than the row in front. There were six rows of seats, so the people in the top rows would have to crouch when walking to their seats. She didn’t expect a lot of complaints. When Denise asked her about it, she answered, “It’s a movie theater, of course. Didn’t you see the black window shades?” The 70 inch digital screen and the surround sound system were left in EMP hardened storage, but would be spectacular once installed.
Several more diesel vehicles had been added to their inventory, including three Humvees. All of the RV spaces were filled with newer fifth wheels or motor homes now, and about half of them were fully enclosed in thin metal panels, with doorways also covered in metal. The rest would be part of the next day’s projects.
The older trailers had been moved off to the side where they would be available if needed later.
Julia and Helen’s RV was now bottled up in the garage where they would keep it until the EMP issues passed.
That night over dinner Jim vented. “I know we’re forgetting things, but I don’t know what they are. We have a three years’ supply of food stored for that size of group. We even have our own liquor store worth of booze. MOP gear. Enough guns to fight a small war. What else do we need?”
Rob sat back and put his hands on the table. “At this point, survival needs are reasonably covered. You did an excellent job. Now we’re dealing with comfort issues and life in the aftermath.
“For months now, we’ve been filling computers with books, textbooks, movies, building plans, and whatever else that might be of use. I think you’ll be pleased with the medical supplies we’ve put together, too. I put Julio in charge of security and he’ll be working on hidden structures to use as pill boxes and look outs. We already have folks on guard duty. We have enough solar panels to run a small town once we’re sure it’s safe to set them up. We’re in pretty good shape, thanks to you.”
Susan asked, “So when did the ranch concept turn into a fort?”
Rob sighed, “I'm afraid we’ll be glad of it before we’re through.”
DECEMBER 19TH
They fell into a routine of assigning everyone needed for larger projects in the morning and then sending them out for supplies in the afternoon. So far they had accomplished a small miracle. The helicopter now had its own hangar, the shipping container constructed barn was completed, and the mobile home sat on a cement slab and was set with its own septic system, water tank, and space for a generator. There was even a small building with RV low flow flush toilets and showers. Later they would add a large water heater, washing machines, driers, and a generator. For now, showers would have to be in the RV’s.
There was also a second large metal shed filled with LP freezers and refrigerators with simple, manual controls. The freezers were filled to capacity with frozen foods. Later they could be filled with fish and butchered meat as needed.
Julio had built several well protected look out posts and snipers nests around the property. They were essentially pill boxes with small rooms that were almost impossible to see even if you were right next to them. He set them up with ventilation and small propane heaters as well. He wished he had it this good on his last tour in Afghanistan.
One of the last projects to be completed was a 20' X 30' metal building that they insulated and filled with mats and folding chairs and tables to use as a commons room and training hal
l. It wasn't anywhere near as nice as Jim's old dojo, but it would work.
The larger mobile home had become their headquarters and community center. A satellite dish had been installed and they were monitoring the news closely on both television and over the internet. Denise called everyone currently on property in for a quick meeting.
“Everyone listen! The news reports have the flu spreading through Europe and Israel like wildfire and the fatalities have started. There are now cases throughout Asia, and we’re starting to see cases in large cities here in the States. It’s happening.”
Rob said, “I would have liked a couple of more days. Let’s get on the sat phones and call everyone in.”
A few hours later, everyone was there but Julie and Helen. They had gotten the message and called to say they were running some final errands and would be back after, but they had not made it back yet. Susan was starting to worry when, just after dark, Helen’s rig came up the driveway pulling yet another fifth wheel and Julie followed in a two toned light green/darker green 1970’s GMC motor home.
Rob rushed out to give Julie the chewing out of her life, but stopped short when he saw that the vehicle was loaded with young women. “What the hell?!”
Susan said, "Gentlemen, it's the EM-50 Urban Assault Vehicle."
Will walked up behind her singing, "There she was just a-walkin' down the street, singin' 'Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do.'"
Rob glared at both of them.
Susan looked at him and said, "What? You don't remember Stripes?"
Helen looked sheepish walking up to Rob, but Julie was defiant. “Dad, you remember my friend Samantha from high school?” An attractive young Filipina stepped out of the SUV and waved, then four other girls of various ethnicities got out of the motor home. “They’re all from NAU and don’t have family in the area. Here are our other friends, Jamie, Rebecca, Angie, and Pia.”
Susan grabbed Rob’s arm gently and said, “Rob, of course we have room.” To the girls she said, “This is our ranch and you’re absolutely welcome here. Julie’s dad was just surprised. Let’s get you inside and we’ll talk about things and I can answer any questions.”
Susan explained the situation and the ground rules. All of the girls agreed and asked to stay. They were given satellite phones to call home, but were asked not to give away information about the location of the place, difficult as that would be. Jim told them that they should warn their families about the danger of the flu.
Rob was still annoyed a few hours later but more about the surprise than with the addition of a few extra people. At least it will keep the boys busy, he thought. Matt and Luke certainly won’t be bored.
DECEMBER 20th
The next morning’s breakfast was once again delicious. When Jim commented on it, Will laughed and said, “Didn’t you know? Frank’s wife, Rita, is a chef. Who do you think was making the decisions on stoves and food supplies to stock this last week?” Jim just laughed. Things were looking better.
Everyone attended the meeting after breakfast. Rob started it. “Good morning, everyone. I’d like to welcome our new crew: Angie, Pia, Samantha, Jamie, and Rebecca. They’re from NAU and will be a welcome addition to our group."
The girls waved.
"Sam is a journalism and photography major and has asked for permission to document our little project here, so if no one minds?" There were a few chuckles here and there, but no complaints. Samantha was already snapping shots on her digital camera.
“For the first order of business, we’ve elected Jim as mayor of Paradise Village.”
Jim looked up from his coffee. “What?”
“Congratulations, Jim! We’ll come up with a sash and a top hat for you later.” There were cheers and laughs at this. He looked back at Samantha and asked, "Did you get that?" She gave him a thumbs up sign.
Jim stood. “Well, I like the sound of Paradise Village. Thank you.”
Rob continued, “Here’s the short version. The weaponized bird flu is here in the States. With the way it was released, it had to be a coordinated attack. There will be counterstrike against the Middle East and China. We need to take the threat of EMP and radiation seriously as things will get out of hand.
“From here on out, no one enters the property without a ten day quarantine. Anyone choosing to leave won’t be allowed back on. Any off property missions will be intended to avoid contact with other people at all costs. It’s not negotiable at this time. Does anyone have a problem with that?” He paused. “Good. Let’s get on with it. Ann?”
Ann stepped up and continued the meeting. “Our top order of business is closing off the entrance road to the village and finishing up the root cellars to double as fallout shelters. Secondary will be wrapping up any remaining EMP protection that we need to do. Assignments are posted on the bulletin board now. If you wrap up early, find something else to help with."
Rob said, "Alright folks, it’s crunch time. Any questions? Okay, let’s hit it.”
It took a few minutes for everyone to check their assignments and clear the room. Matt and Luke took the bulldozer down to the far end of the dirt road and shortly had a ten foot embankment covering the entrance to the dirt road from the state highway. It wouldn’t stop someone who was determined, but it should slow them down. They also removed Jim’s signs for the ranch and the mailbox by the road.
Matt nailed “No Trespassing” signs to trees along the dirt road while Luke put the bulldozer back in its garage next to the excavator. Once that was done, they went to help with the other projects.
The root cellars had been dug into a hill with the floor sloping upward. The trenches had been expanded to 10 feet deep and 10 feet wide and 30 feet long and reinforced cement walls had already been completed a couple of weeks before, so the work group installed six inch pipes for ventilation then spanned the trenches with 20 foot logs that were at least a foot in diameter. The logs were covered with thick plastic liner and covered with cement and soil to match the surrounding hill. The final tasks were to place filters and fans for the ventilation system, conceal the vent pipes, and put in thick wooden doors.
Inspecting the site, Rob said to Jim, “It’s good work, but you know we’re still screwed if there’s serious radiation.”
“Between you and me, I’m actually more worried about forest fires. If the flu is as bad as it sounds, there won’t be anyone doing firefighting missions. Life could go south in a hurry. We can clear cut some firebreaks and build another shelter for the animals. Beyond that, I’m not sure what to other than to evacuate quickly if the time comes.”
Rob grimaced and said, “I just hope it doesn’t come to that.”
“I just want you to know that I’m not crazy about this new reality that we’re moving into. I kind of liked my life before.”
“Me, too, buddy. Me, too. But did you notice that we probably have a year’s supply of beer?”
“Okay, so maybe it’s not all bad.”
Julian’s voice blurted out of their radios, “Boss, we have a couple of visitors on dirt bikes.”
Jim said, “I’ll take care of it. You cover me.”
Jim took the truck down the dirt road and stopped at the end. He put on a surgical mask, and black mechanics’ gloves, even though he felt that the risk was small. He also left his radio broadcasting, knowing that Julio and Dave were listening.
When he got to the end of the road, he got out of the truck. It was two men who looked like meth heads to Jim. He noticed the bulge of a badly concealed pistol on one of them right away. “Can I help you guys?”
The one with the pistol stayed back while the other stepped up and said, “We were just wondering why you closed the road off. That’s pretty fucked up, man.”
Jim looked him over and said, “It’s a private road and that didn’t seem to stop you. I’d recommend that you two go home and avoid other people until this flu thing sorts itself out.”
“I have a better idea. How about we…”
“How about
you two leave now and don’t ever come back onto my property again?”
The two men stepped forward aggressively and the second reached for his weapon. Both of their heads exploded at the same time. Jim stood there for a moment, and shook his head. It wasn't the first time he'd seen gunshot wounds to the head, but it was the first he'd seen that happen in front of him. He climbed into the truck and drove it back to the village. Dave was already moving the tractor out of its shed. Within 45 minutes, the bikes and bodies were buried 8 feet down and the tractor was on its way back to the garage.
Jim worked on solo projects for the rest of the day, disturbed by the morning event. He knew those two would have been trouble, but it bothered him to see things dealt with so violently. I tried to give them a chance. If they had jumped back on the bikes and left, it would have been the end of it. The gut jarring awful thing was that he knew it wouldn’t be the last time.
When he went to dinner that evening, he noticed that the mood was grim. Matt almost ran up to him, “Uncle Jim! The President was on and said that we were hit with a bio-weapon attack and that we took out China and North Korea with kinetic energy weapons and nukes. The Israelis nuked Iran, too."
Jim frowned. “Sounds like your dad nailed it all the way round.”
Once everyone was there except for the two on guard duty, Frank gave a quick briefing. “We’ve been monitoring news, CDC, law enforcement, and military intelligence as available. The short of it is that cities are now under martial law and all unnecessary travel is forbidden. The Muslims were effective in spreading the virus to most of the major cities in the US and Europe, so there’s not any chance of the virus being contained.
“We know that China altered the virus and passed it to Iran to disseminate. That means that they did have a vaccine, so we will be able to develop one, too. CDC expects six months to a year.
The Forgiven The Fallen The Forsaken Page 7