Convergence

by Frank L. Williams

  “Well, that’s the problem. We don’t have a plan, and we don’t really have anyone who knows how to make a plan.”

  “What about the congressman and governor who were there?”

  “I’m glad they were there, but they’re focused on their own states and communities. We need someone here.”

  “Who else do you have involved?” Jim asked.

  “Just a lot of good ol’ country folks like me. Scattered all over the mountains and foothills.”

  Jim held up the flag that they had been handed at Ray’s barn. “Does this flag represent your movement?”

  “One of our members made it, and most of our supporters have adopted it. We call it the Free America Movement.”

  “How did you come up with the name?”

  “It’s pretty simple. We just want to make America free again.”

  After a number of camp residents asked questions, Jim raised his hand. “Joshua, I’d like to sleep on this. I haven’t had time to process everything Ray shared, and this isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. I move that we table this discussion to the next full camp meeting.”

  Jim’s motion carried, with only Caroline objecting, and the meeting adjourned.

  ***

  7:27 p.m. – Fontana Dam

  Melanie felt relieved, confused and hopeful. She was relieved that she had an option, somewhere to stay when Major Chinn departed. She was confused and nervous because she had only met some of these people briefly at Ray’s barn. Of course, she had never met Major Chinn prior to the attack on Watts Bar Lake, but he had taken care of her in the days and weeks since.

  She was hopeful because she saw an emerging leader in Joshua Winston. Perhaps her political skills and network could help him if and when he chose to engage in the history-shaping events taking place around him. She had also felt an immediate connection with Joshua’s wife, Rebecca, during their brief conversation at Ray’s barn. Rebecca seemed both strong and humble, both sophisticated and down-to-earth. She also seemed genuinely interested in Melanie’s well-being.

  Rebecca approached Melanie after the meeting adjourned. “Hope I didn’t blindside you with the vote to allow you to stay here.”

  Melanie grabbed Rebecca and hugged her tightly, her eyes welling with tears. “You did surprise me, but I don’t mind at all. Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

  “So that’s a yes?”

  “Yes! It’s not like I have other options, and y’all seem like good people. Where will I sleep?”

  “We’ll figure that out. We have a few options.” Rebecca put her arm around Melanie. “What do you have with you?”

  “Not much,” Melanie said. “We’ve been able to scrounge up some clothes at the market, but that’s about it.”

  “We’ll get you taken care of.”

  ***

  7:34 p.m. – Fontana Dam

  Joshua joined Perry, Caroline and Major Chinn after the meeting adjourned.

  “You’re sure about this, ma’am?” Chinn asked.

  “Absolutely,” Caroline answered. “I’m tired of hiding in this camp. And I can help you.”

  “I’m not,” Perry said. Joshua saw the strain in his eyes.

  “Well, you’ll just have to get over that.” Caroline glared up at her husband.

  Kane approached the group as Caroline was speaking and introduced himself to Major Chinn. “Major, I’d like to go as well. I don’t have technical skills, but I do have military skills, and you might need backup.”

  “You’re welcome to join me, Corporal,” Chinn said, then turned to Caroline and Perry. “I’m not going to say you can’t join me. That’s up the two of you to decide, and if you have the kind of skills you claim, I could use your help. Just know that it will be dangerous.”

  “I realize that,” Caroline said. “I’m going.”

  “Fair enough,” Chinn said. “Meet me at 0600 tomorrow at Fontana Village. I’ll give you directions to the cabin where we’ve been staying.” He turned to Joshua. “If you guys are serious about letting Melanie stay here, I think that would be helpful. She’ll be in good hands here. If you bring these folks to meet me, we’ll be ready for you to bring her back with you.”

  “Well, my wife says we’re serious about it, so I guess we are.” Joshua chuckled. “That sounds like a plan.”

  ***

  7:52 p.m. – Fontana Dam

  Melanie and Major Chinn started the short trek back to the Fontana Village cabin where they were staying. Melanie reflected on everything that had happened during their visit to the camp. When they entered the camp, she had no idea what would happen to her when Major Chinn departed for Virginia Beach. She had not anticipated Rebecca’s suggestion that she stay in the camp, but was glad it had happened. These seemed like good people. While the accommodations would likely be nothing like what she was accustomed to in Austin, she would make it work.

  Chinn broke the silence as they turned off the dirt path onto the road. “Are you sure you’re okay with moving into the camp?”

  “Yes,” Melanie said resolutely. “It’s the only option I have, but it’s a good option. They seem like good people, and they’ve made it this far.”

  “Good,” Chinn said, sounding relieved. “I didn’t want to leave you out in the cold, but also didn’t want to take you into harm’s way. I think you’ll be as safe here as anywhere.”

  “Will we keep in touch?”

  “Absolutely,” Chinn said. “I’ll give you one of our secure sat phones.”

  ***

  8:27 p.m. – Fontana Dam

  Chinn did his usual security sweep of the cabin, then motioned for Melanie to enter. He positioned his secure tablet on the table, looked at his watch, and activated the videoconference app. General Cloos appeared on screen, as did Colonel Brookhart.

  Gentlemen, thank you for joining us at this late hour, Cloos began. Major, please report.

  “Sir, I depart at 0600 tomorrow for Virginia Beach. Three people will be joining me. Caroline Edwards, who lives in Joshua Winston’s camp. She is a cyber-security expert who worked with Securitas Systems.”

  Cloos cocked an eyebrow. They had contracts with nearly every military and defense-related outfit in America. If she worked there she’s got to be good at what she does. Who else?

  “Her husband, Perry. He wouldn’t let her go alone.”

  Figures. Anyone else?

  “Corporal Kane Martin, U.S. Army. He seems like a tough cookie, and having him as backup could be helpful.”

  Good work, Major. You’ll need them, because your mission just expanded. In addition to trying to find the source of the AIS video feed and isolating the Supreme Leader’s location, I want you to hack into the Department of Homeland Security network and retrieve every contact record you can. I’ll send the location to your tablet.

  Chinn swallowed hard. “Yes, sir.”

  What’s the plan for the girl?

  “Joshua Winston’s group invited her to stay in their camp. She’ll be in good hands.”

  Good work, Cloos said. Colonel, you’re up.

  Brookhart’s voice emanated from the speaker. Sir, AIS is clearly gearing up for a major attack here. We are still unsure of their exact target. It could be the nuclear plant in Southport, the Military Ocean Terminal at Sunny Point, or the Port of Wilmington. We’ve received multiple reports of AIS people scoping out all three potential targets. We’ve also received reports of an AIS convoy coming down I-40, and another coming this way on Highway 74. Finally, the cell we’ve been monitoring in Myrtle Beach appears to be gearing up to travel this way via boat.

  You’ll need reinforcements, Cloos said. Captain Foster will bring a rifle company and depart at 0800 Monday. Enlist any locals who seem supportive as well.

  Will do, sir, Brookhart answered. The sheriff in Brunswick County has his act together, and his remaining deputies are on high alert.

  I’ve met him, Cloos said. Best sheriff in the state. Colonel, I may accompany Captain Foster. Major, please h
andle your work in Virginia Beach as quickly as possible. I may need you to join us.

  ***

  Sunday, November 4, 2018 – 0548 – Fontana Village

  The sun was barely peeking over the trees at Fontana Village as Major Chinn packed his gear into the Explorer the next morning. His breath was visible in the brisk morning air. Melanie gathered what few belongings she had and placed them just outside the door. Chinn did a quick sweep of the cabin to ensure make sure they weren’t leaving anything behind.

  Chinn retrieved a secure satellite phone from his rucksack and handed it to Melanie. “My number is programmed in. I also plugged in your friend Craig’s number.” He chuckled when he noticed Melanie’s face flush red. “Thought you’d like that. Don’t hesitate to call me at any time.”

  Melanie rose to her feet, hugged Chinn and kissed him on the cheek. “Thank you for everything you’ve done for me. You probably saved my life. I’ll always be indebted to you.”

  “You’re welcome,” Chinn said. “That’s what Marines do.” He noticed a set of headlights flash through the window. “It’s go time.”

  ***

  5:59 a.m. – Fontana Village

  Joshua climbed down out of the back seat of Perry’s red Dodge Ram crew cab pickup, then took Rebecca’s hand as she followed. He and Rebecca made their way to Major Chinn and Melanie, while Perry, Caroline and Kane began stuffing their gear into the tan Ford Explorer. Kane also relocated four gas cans from the Ram to the Explorer.

  Joshua shook Chinn’s hand. “Major, thanks for all you’ve done. Please take care of our friends.”

  “I’ll do my best, sir. And you take care of Melanie. You’ve got my sat phone number if you need to reach me.”

  “Likewise.”

  Rebecca put her hand on Melanie’s shoulder. “Are you ready?”

  “As ready as I’ll ever be.”

  They made their way to the Explorer. Rebecca embraced Caroline tightly, and Joshua hugged Perry. “You guys take care of yourselves.” He shook Kane’s hand. “You too.”

  “Yes, sir.”

  Major Chinn looked at his watch. “We’re three minutes late.”

  “Let’s roll, sir.” Kane climbed into the front passenger seat. Perry and Caroline claimed the back seats.

  Joshua felt a lump form in his throat as he watched the Explorer turn right out of the parking lot and disappear from sight. He grabbed Rebecca’s hand and squeezed.

  “What is it, Josh?”

  “I’m not sure. I’ve just got a bad feeling about this.”

  CHAPTER 12

  0614 – Route 28 near Fontana Dam

  Major Chinn piloted the Explorer down Highway 28, deftly navigating the tight curves. He made his way to the base of the mountain and took a left onto Highway 74. As they approached Bryson City he pulled into the gravel parking lot of a small store that sold guns and, more importantly, ammo. The only other vehicle in the lot was a faded red Nissan pickup with a noticeable dent in the drivers’ side door and a “Fight Crime, Shoot Back” bumper sticker in the back window.

  “Major, how do we know this place would be open this early?” Kane inquired.

  “General Cloos knows the owner,” Chinn answered. “He asked him to be here this morning.”

  The foursome stocked up on ammunition for the weapons they had brought along and then exited the store. As they drove toward the road a lone black Suburban pulled into the parking lot. Chinn noticed Kane watching the vehicle intently.

  Chinn went on high alert as the Suburban did an abrupt 180-degree turn, kicking rocks up in its wake. It skidded in front of the Explorer and came to a stop. A tall, curvy blonde rocketed out of the drivers’ seat and made a beeline for the Explorer.

  “She doesn’t look happy,” Chinn said.

  “She’s not.” Kane opened his door. “I’ll handle this.” He stepped out of the Explorer. “Virginia, there’s nothing for us to talk about. Just turn around and leave.”

  The woman waved her finger at Kane. “I should’ve known you were too good to be true. I can’t believe you’re in league with these…these terrorist rebels!”

  “And I can’t believe you’re working with these Third Reich Homeland Security goons! Like I said, there’s nothing for us to talk about. So back off and let us pass.”

  “You killed my men!”

  “That wasn’t us, that was AIS. You know, our real enemy?”

  “Why should I believe you?”

  “Believe what you want. There’s nothing between us.” Kane turned away from Virginia. “Nothing! We’re leaving.”

  Chinn’s stomach twisted as the woman drew a pistol and aimed it at Kane’s back. He reached for his door handle, but two shots rang out before he could open it. The woman fell to the ground. Kane’s back was still turned to her; he hadn’t shot her. Who fired those shots? Chinn jumped as a figure walked past his window. Caroline’s smoking revolver was still trained on the woman’s corpse. She fired another shot into the woman’s head, then pivoted toward the vehicle. “She wasn’t any good for you, Kane. Let’s go.” Kane’s eyes were as big as hubcaps as he returned to the Explorer.

  Chinn watched in the rear-view mirror as Caroline reclaimed the rear passenger-side seat. Perry stared at his wife, shaking his head.

  This woman is cold-blooded, Chinn thought as he put the Explorer in gear. And her husband acts like he doesn’t even know her. Remind me not to tick her off.

  “Make yourselves comfortable, folks,” Chinn said. “We’re taking the scenic route to avoid major highways, so this will be a long trip. It would be at least eight hours if we stayed on freeways, so we’re talking about an all-nighter.”

  “We know all about the scenic route,” Caroline said.

  ***

  Monday, November 5, 2018 – 0745 – Camp Lejeune

  At precisely 0745 the next morning, General Cloos finished his cup of coffee, holstered his MEU (SOC) modified 1911 .45 ACP pistol and exited his office. Outside, he found Captain Charles Foster and 175 Marines. Foster faced Cloos, stood at attention and saluted. The men and women in his unit followed his lead. Cloos returned the salute. “At ease, Captain.” Foster was about 28 years old, had a full head of neatly trimmed blonde hair and stood just under six feet tall. He and the other assembled Marines were attired in woodland camouflage MARPAT combat utility uniforms.

  “We are ready for departure, sir,” Captain Foster said.

  Cloos looked at his watch. “Fifteen minutes ahead of schedule. Good work, Captain. Are the scout vehicles already en route?”

  “Yes, sir. Three undercover vehicles, spaced thirty minutes apart, the last of which departed fifteen minutes ago.”

  “Excellent,” Cloos said. “We also have eyes in the sky. We will travel as a convoy on 17 until the Wilmington bypass. At that point, the scout teams en route to Fort Fisher will continue south through Wilmington and all other units will divert onto the bypass. Units destined for downtown Wilmington and the port will exit onto Interstate 40, and units bound for Brunswick County will remain on the bypass until it dead-ends into 421.” Cloos reflected on the fact that the completion of the bypass across the Cape Fear River would likely have been open to traffic in late 2017 if not for the terrorist attacks.

  Cloos directed Captain Foster to dispatch four-man fire teams to numerous locations in Brunswick County, including the Brunswick River bridge, Bald Head Island, the bridges onto Sunset Beach, Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach and the north and south ends of Oak Island, the Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell, the Southport waterfront, Fort Anderson at Brunswick Town, Orton Pond, the Brunswick Riverwalk at Belville, Boiling Spring Lakes and Town Creek on Highway 133. Teams would also be stationed at Fort Fisher, the boardwalk in downtown Wilmington and the grounds of the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA Memorial. Cloos reflected on the many long walks he and his late wife had enjoyed on Brunswick County’s quiet beaches prior to the 2017 terrorist attacks. He had enjoyed these beaches because they had been destinations for families, not coll
ege students or out-of-town teenagers. He smiled briefly as he thought about a particularly large King Mackerel he had caught on the Ocean Crest Pier a few years earlier.

  “Captain, all scout teams are to conceal their positions and engage only if necessary.” Cloos spat on the ground next to the Jeep. “Their job is simply to report what they see. We will have units in defensive positions around all four identified potential targets.”

  “Yes, sir,” Foster said. “Four targets, sir? I only recall you mentioning three.”

  “The first three are obvious, Captain. The nuclear plant in Southport, the Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point, and the Port of Wilmington. The fourth is one that worries me. It’s a fuel terminal near the riverfront in Wilmington that used to be owned by Hess. They sold it a couple of years ago. Can hold about a half million barrels of oil or gas – and I understand it’s full.”

  Captain Foster grimaced. “Yes, sir. Sir, how are they still full?”

  “According to our intelligence, locals have been escorting fuel tankers up the river and helping them safely unload. This was coordinated by the local governments, law enforcement and veterans.” Cloos looked at his watch. “Time to roll.” He climbed into the passenger seat of a nearby Growler M-1163 Prime Mover and motioned for the convoy to move out. The armada of Marine vehicles began moving toward the gate at Camp Lejeune.

  Cloos lit up a cigar and leaned back against the seat. It’s time to rid America of this terrorist infestation, he thought. Starting today.

  ***

  1017 – Fontana Dam

  Later that morning Jack pressed forward on the Appalachian Trail. The few remaining orange and red leaves on the mountainside proclaimed the waning presence of autumn, but the unseasonably warm temperatures had the feel of early Spring.

  While nearly two decades had passed since he had worn the uniform of the U.S. Marines, meeting Major Michael Chinn and Colonel Lester Wade had rekindled Jack’s passion for the Corps. These two men – one long retired and one still active – were still fighting. Fighting for freedom. Fighting against enemies of the United States of America, foreign and domestic. Jack had always been a fighter. Perhaps the fight was again calling his name.