by Johnny Jacks
“Training exercises will be fun,” Marcie beamed.
“Watch your speed and back off that car in front of us.”
She slowed down. “How’s this?”
“That’s better. Keep checking the speedometer and braking distance.”
~~~
Grayson and Ramirez waved at Marcie from the gazebo when the group left the lodge for the training area.
“Looks like the classroom instruction is over. Why aren’t you participating?”
Grayson sipped his coffee. “I want Marcie to focus on her training, not worry about screwing up in front of me.”
Marcie stood at attention in squad formation. It was her first big training exercise as a private in the SET Patriots. Jillian helped her apply camouflage face paint and dress in full kit.
Jillian was pleased that Wayne chose her to oversee the event. She proudly stood in front of the formation. “Sir, first and second squads are prepared for the practical exercise.”
Wayne, facing the formation, asked, “What is the general purpose of the exercise?”
Jillian didn’t hesitate. “Sir, this exercise puts into action the instructions presented in the classroom pertaining to ambushes, patrolling, and immediate actions when ambushed.”
“What are the specific training goals?”
“The first squad will establish an ambush in a wooded area unknown to the second squad. The second squad will practice patrolling techniques along a path that will take them within the ambush kill zone. Patrolling techniques will include individual tactical movements by forward, rear, and parallel security and movement of the main body. The patrol will pass within the ambush kill zone and employ immediate action to counter the ambush.”
The men accepted the women as equals when they were in their uniforms and armed, and that made Marcie feel like a grown woman. She was in the second squad and focused on patrolling techniques.
Wayne sent the first squad ahead to set up the ambush before allowing the second squad to begin their patrol.
The second squad moved slowly and alertly through the woods. Marcie felt calm and one with nature, the same as when walking trails with Grayson and her mother. About twenty minutes into the patrol and on top of the world, she stepped into the middle of the ambush kill zone.
Suddenly, a string of firecrackers, heavy blank ammo shots, and Tannerite explosives—set off at a safe distance—sent her into a panic. She froze as though half-awake in a nightmare.
After less than half a minute, Mark blew a whistle to signal cease firing and announced, “Everybody circle-up for the critique.”
~~~
Euphoria replaced Marcie’s panic. “That was great! I almost peed my pants when they set off the bombs. The firecrackers sounded just like a real machine gun.”
Focusing on their new recruit, Mark asked, “What was the main thing you learned from the exercise, Pvt. Fisher?”
“Hmmm. I can’t say if there was one main thing. I became confused, not knowing if I should keep going and fight through the ambush, turn into the ambush, or take cover while returning fire. Being scared was spooky, but it was such fun, I can’t wait to do it again!”
Mark got in her face and used his drill-sergeant voice to bring her in line with reality. “This is serious business, soldier! If you want to play games, then get yourself some Barbie dolls! When you’re here, you kill or be killed! This is not a game! Do you understand me?”
Marcie slumped at attention, her face hot from Mark’s scolding, something she’d never experienced.
“I said, do you understand me, soldier!”
“Yes, sir.”
“Speak up soldier! I can’t hear you!”
Marcie, filled with anger and humiliation, stood up tall and shouted, “Yes, sir! I understand, sir! This is not a game, sir!”
Her strong response knocked Mark off guard, and he almost cracked a smile. “That’s good, soldier. At least you remembered your options, but not until after the shooting stopped. In a few minutes, we’ll walk through this exercise several times to help you rectify the panic and freezing problem. When on patrol, always imagine you’re about to be hit and know in advance what you’ll do. Situational awareness is your friend, but a word of warning: training exercises are harmless; in real combat, you must have a warrior’s mentality, and that is a serious thing, not a fun game. Without it, you die. When we conduct practical exercises, do something, even if it’s wrong. That’s the only way to learn the right way. Understand?”
“Yes, sir…and, Mr. Hamilton?”
“What?”
“Thank you for calling me ‘soldier’.”
“You’re welcome, private.”
Marcie began to bob up and down with a strained look on her face. “Mr. Hamilton, sir!”
“Yes, Private Fisher.”
“Sir, I gotta pee really bad. May I be excused from formation?”
Everyone smiled when Mark slapped his hands together, slid his right arm out to full length, and pointed toward a big clump of bushes. “Dismissed, soldier!”
Chapter 57
The Farm Girl
Year 19
Grayson and Marcie placed Maverick and Bubbles in Grayson’s fenced backyard and dropped their backpacks and dirty boots in the mudroom. Grayson sniffed the air. “Something smells delicious.”
Shannon was in his kitchen preparing dinner, something new. Thankfully, they’d changed out of their camo gear before leaving the farm, but Grayson still felt defensive. “You won’t believe the photos of wild animals we got on our late fall trek into Crockett National Forest,” he lied and held his cellphone so she could see the screen. “Look at this photo of Canada Geese in the meadow by a lake. There must be a hundred.” He omitted the part about taking the photos on the way home.
“Wow. They’re beautiful.”
When Shannon’s back was turned, Grayson motioned Marcie toward her mother.
Marcie rolled her eyes and plastered on a phony smile. “Dinner smells great…Mom.”
Startled, Shannon looked at Marcie closely, her eyes misting. “Thank you, sweetheart. You know, I enjoy our outings. Maybe I should start going backpacking with you guys again, visit the farm too. I’d like that.”
“Like what?” they said in unison.
“Visiting the farm with you next time you go. What do you think?”
Grayson and Marcie looked at each other.
“What’s with the look?” She studied the guilty-looking pair.
He swallowed hard. “It’s weird. We talked about that not long ago. The guys ask about you. It’d be great having you with us. First, we need to get you outfitted.”
She turned back to the stove. “I’ll need to buy rubber boots for traipsing through cow pies.”
“How do you know about cow pies…Mom?”
Grayson grinned at Marcie and held his truck key in the air while Shannon’s back was turned.
Marcie stuck her tongue out at him.
“I lived on a farm until I started college. Guess we haven’t talked much about my early years.”
Marcie glanced at Grayson but couldn’t control herself. “You never have time to talk about your early years or any other years for that matter.”
“You’re right. I’m sorry, Marcie. I’ve let my work get in the way.”
“It wouldn’t if you didn’t go to those stupid anti-gun rallies.”
Grayson cleared his throat. “Marcie, run along and take a quick shower. I’ll help your mother with dinner.”
Shannon’s ire triggered, she retorted. “There’s nothing stupid about eliminating guns to save people’s lives.”
Grayson was tired of running interference. “Go get your shower and change clothes before dinner.” Marcie spun on her heel and ran to her room.
He wondered if she would hate her mother forever. Time was running out to get Shannon on their side before the encroaching collapse. “So, we need to plan a weekend camping trip soon.”
“I’d prefer to go t
o the farm, but right now, I have to run to my house for nutmeg.”
When the front door closed, Marcie shot into the kitchen. “We can’t take her to the farm and I don’t want to go backpacking with her again either!”
Grayson’s tone made it clear he was tired and his patience stretched thin. “Thank you for being polite for a few minutes.”
“She and her dirtball husband messed up my life, and I don’t like either of them.”
“You’re only seventeen. A long time from now, when your mouth and brain catch up with each other, you’ll have what it takes to get past those feelings. Like it or not, your mother loves you. I can’t make you love her, but if you want to keep our relationship healthy, stop the childish rejoinders today!”
Her reply was half-hearted. “I’ll try.”
“No. You’ll do it. That’s like saying ‘I’ll try to be a good soldier.’ If you only try, others will die. Christian adults don’t intentionally cause pain to others. If you want to be a woman instead of a kid, that’s what you must stop doing to your mother. Respect her right to her opinions and to make mistakes.”
“So, what about the farm and backpacking?”
“It’s natural for her to be curious about what we do when we’re away. She needs to meet the group and know where the BOL’s located. If we have to bug out on foot, she must be in shape, an experienced backpacker, and know the direction of travel. Otherwise, she’ll endanger all of us.”
Marcie turned his lessons over in her head.
“Do you honestly want your mother dead, never to see or talk to her again? Do you want the responsibility of her death resting on your shoulders because you didn’t try to save her?”
She shrugged and replied weakly, “I guess not.”
“Sweetie, you were traumatized by something that happened between your parents. That’s your business, and I’ve respected your right to privacy. My business is to love both of you and provide you with security. I can’t do that if you continue fighting me. I need your help.”
Marcie nodded, then challenged him. “If the SET Patriots decided two years ago to let her visit the farm, why didn’t you invite her before now?”
“The time was never right.”
“I guess you’d rather play with a barrel of rattlesnakes than be caught in the same room with two girlfriends.”
“That about sums it up. You been talking about me with Austin?”
“Who else?”
“Hurry with your shower, missy. I’m ready to eat her delicious-smelling meal.”
“I hate to admit it, but she is a good cook.”
“And I’m sure you’ll tell her how delicious it was. Be nice and I’ll convince her to let you drive her Jag to the farm.”
Islamic State of America - 14
Cairo Egypt – Time Has Arrived
Year 19
Akeem, Carlos, and Miguel sat and chatted, curious why Imam Omar summoned them from battle. Coming straight from a long hard-fought war in the heart of Angola, they were not current with the political and economic situation in America. They rose when the holy man entered the room.
“As-salāmu alaykum, peace be upon you.” He kissed each on the cheeks.
“As-salāmu alaykum, and upon you peace,” they replied.
Imam Omar praised his soldiers. “Through these years, you fought shrewdly and bravely and established Sharia, the law that pleases Allah, in many lands in Africa. You are prepared for the coming battle in America. The time is near.”
Carlos stood fearless before the eminent and revered holy man and spoke to him in perfect Arabic. “All praise is to Allah. Everything happens by the will of Allah. We are His servants and carry out His will as given to us by our beloved Prophet Mohammed—peace be upon him.”
Akeem praised Carlos. “Well-spoken, my friend.”
Miguel spoke with confidence, the same as his brother. “You said, ‘the time is near.’ Do you speak of America?”
“I speak of all Western Civilization. The infidels destroy their own houses as we speak, work of their own evil hands. Thanks to your efforts, our cells are in position and ready to conduct holy war, Alhamd lilah, thanks be to god. It is time for you to return to America and make ready.”
Carlos’ fervor was unmistakable. “We will conquer the Southwest for the caliphate, for ISA, the Islamic State of America, and you will be our caliph. Insha’Allah, god willing.”
Imam Omar smiled at Akeem. “You have done well, my friend. He turned to the group. “Tomorrow you travel to Mexico. Make ready to depart. Allah yahmik, may Allah protect you.”
Chapter 58
Shannon’s Epiphany
Year 19
Marcie brought her mother’s dark sapphire Jaguar to a stop in front of the farmhouse and jumped out before Grayson and Shannon opened their doors.
Within seconds, Shannon saw Jillian with a large group gathering the last of the fall produce. “What’s Jillian doing here, and why are those Houston cops here?”
“I thought you knew she’d joined our organic farming group. The cops are the chief’s friends.”
“You never mentioned them before. Maybe I should go home.”
“You’ll be fine. Let’s go talk to Jillian.” He waved to her while surveying the group for Laura.
Jillian held up a huge cabbage. “Hi, Sissy. Look at the size of these babies! Let’s use one to start a big pot of veggie soup.”
“Why didn’t you tell me you’d be here? What’s going on?” Shannon asked suspiciously.
“Chill out. We do a lot of farming and produce some great food. Enjoy your day.”
Shannon gave her look only a close sister would understand. “We’ll see. The cabbages are beautiful. I should’ve brought my grungy clothes, so I could help.”
Most of the group remained working, but a few came over to say hello. Shannon had questioned many of them on the witness stand. They were polite and shook her hand, but nobody welcomed her.
Grayson grabbed her hand and walked to the knoll where he stood with Joe his first day at the farm.
Ever the lawyer, Shannon analyzed the surroundings. “The pond is beautiful. Why are those shacks in a big circle around this spot?”
“Those are the cabins everyone stays in when gardening and hunting. The center makes a good place for an open fire to socialize.”
“I don’t see any signs of a fire pit, and you never mentioned hunting. Do they have guns here?” She gasped when she saw the deer carcasses hanging by their hind legs from a big oak tree.
“Some of the guys do.”
Shannon tamped down her anger, afraid to ask if Marcie hunted. Her uncontrolled guilt again edged her to the threshold of detesting her decision to accede quietly to Grayson’s secret parental entitlements. Listening to the easy banter between Grayson and Marcie on the drive to the farm had triggered it, and she felt it spiraling out of control. Jillian’s unexpected appearance added to her irritation and gave her a profound sense of isolation.
“That big thing over there. It’s enormous.”
“That’s the BOL backup solar power station. Commercial power goes out for days at a time here.”
“B-O-L?”
“It’s a solar power company. Obama didn’t invest in it. You know, because it didn’t pay off big-time contributors and then go into bankruptcy.” His joke didn’t amuse her.
She was on full alert. The late November day was cool with a slight breeze, and they were not exercising, but he was starting to sweat.
“What about that long building beside the B-O-L solar?”
“That’s the lodge where the group meets to socialize and cook meals from the fresh veggies.”
“What about those towers with the wires and antennas hanging on them?” She has strong Ralph Nader with hints of J. Edgar tendencies.
“That’s Weber’s antenna farm. He’s a ham radio guy and doesn’t have enough space at his home for his hobby.”
“Weber? Harold Weber? The cop that made a fool of
me in the Delgado trial? On second thought, don’t answer that.”
She spoke through gritted teeth. “You never told me about a lodge. I suppose you cook venison, too?”
“That and beef, chickens, rabbits. See the herd of cows over there? Chicken and rabbit coops are near the barn.”
He attempted to hold her hand as they started back to the group, but she shook loose.
“I don’t know what’s going on here, mister, and don’t try to bullshit me, but you’ve got my daughter mixed up in something weird. I’ll leave it alone for now, but we will talk later.”
Grayson saw Laura chatting with the group around the baskets of fall vegetables. He scanned for Austin and found him in the gazebo with Marcie. Might as well get it over with now. He steered Shannon to the group and covertly watched Laura connect and follow them.
“Hi, Grayson. It’s nice to see you.” Laura dripped sugar with each word.
“Hi, Laura. How are you?”
“I’m fine. Who’s your friend?”
The men enjoyed watching Grayson squirm, but Joe took pity on him. “Come on, guys, these veggies won’t load themselves for the drive back to Houston. Grayson, I have a big pot of chicken-veggie soup on low heat in the lodge for the evening social. Check on it for me, please, and get the cornbread started. It’s already in the pan, covered with plastic wrap. The fire in the stove has the oven hot by now.”
Grayson pulled on Shannon’s hand, and she reluctantly followed. “A fire in the stove? You’re using a wood-burning stove for cooking?”
Bucko, you’re back in the minefield without combat engineers to clear a path.
“Jillian, come help me,” he almost begged. He waved for Marcie.
“Austin and I have to help his mother,” Marcie yelled to him. She didn’t budge until Grayson gave her his you’d-better-do-as-I-say look.
~~~
Grayson stepped out of the kitchen and sat down at the table. “Cornbread’s in the oven.”