4-3 Southern Turmoil, Changing Earth Audio Drama

[00:00:00] Pain Pain is the great equalizer, the secret to life. From the time I was a boy, I learned to always inflict pain faster than my opponent. To never let pain guide my decisions, it always harnessed the pain from my own strength.

[00:00:20] The Great Quake brought misery and death to a callous number of people. But it made me, a god, ruler of my domain, the greatest bounty hunter to ever live. No one, no one dared run from TJ Swinson, except one.

[00:00:40] They call her the lone survivor, the savior of the refugees. But she is my greatest bounty ever. This is life on the changing earth. Good morning TJ. What are you doing here? We're making bread today. Do you feel up to that?

[00:01:08] I'm feeling good today. And Jenny needs to learn how to do it. Don't overdo it. Jenny, you keep an eye on her. Oh well TJ, your breakfast is ready. Give it to me. It sounds like Trie says plans for your time. Thank you, TJ.

[00:01:23] What are you working on? You know what I'm working on. She still hasn't popped back up? No. Margaret is doing better. She's been back training at the gym. Doesn't she have a baby to feed? It doesn't eat all the time, TJ.

[00:01:49] She can spend a few hours at the gym and be fine. Who takes care of it while she's gone? Susan. She wants to fight again, TJ. She has a child to take care of. So? So I can't send her back in with the fighters.

[00:02:04] If she were a fighter, her child would have gone to the milkmaids. She could have one or the other, but not both. What will she do? Why don't you mind your own business? Let me mind mine. I need to get back to my bread anyhow.

[00:02:17] Jenny, you keep an eye on her. I will, TJ. Carl, what are you doing here? I wanted to let you know myself. Jarvis is dead. She had Bennett, a Clintox kid and Erica's eldest son in custody. Where are they now? Dallas. The city is locked down.

[00:02:44] But there's been no sign of them. They're still there. They're waiting for Erica. We've already taken control of the Merck base there. They're only strong howl at the Zout West. Erica has to know that by now.

[00:02:57] We don't need to worry about tracking her down if we have something she wants. We'll have to wait and see what they come up with. I'll head down there. You will? I told the Supreme General I would take care of this. Keep me posted.

[00:03:10] I don't need a gift. No money or labor. What if we just say you owe me a favor? Dex. Yes, Master Sergeant. Do you know when Sean's band was supposed to play in Dallas? They're in Dallas on June 2nd.

[00:03:34] But the look for us there, if the federal forces haven't taken them yet. Oh shit! What about Daniel, Master Sergeant? What about my grandparents? Calm down, Dex. We're gonna figure this out. Howl, Master Sergeant. We're all fugitives now. My dad's in federal prison.

[00:03:56] Morn McClintock, secure the vehicle. Smith, come with me and secure the warehouse. Yes, sir. Now we out here breaking the news. Shit you really could do, cause we ain't got nothing to lose. We switched side with no crews. We just stayed out of the loop.

[00:04:11] Now we out here letting it loose. Every shot we took of what's loose. Gotta get it, ain't no excuse. Same shit left to prove. That should hide the Jeep for now. Smith, you're on watch. Take the gear to the corner and run a check.

[00:04:22] So many lies, so many lies. So many, so many, hey. So many, so many, yeah. So many, yeah. Dexter, it's time to work. Yes, sir. Find a sniper point. We have to get that Jeep out of here. Or we have to move. Scout it.

[00:04:40] Yes, sir. Come on, trucker. They're going to kill my dad, aren't they? Honestly, Johnny. Yes, sir. Honestly. I'd be surprised if he's not dead already. Something serious must have happened for the Federal Forces to have turned on the Mercenary Army. They would know what means war for sure.

[00:05:00] The Mercenary Army remained independent to provide a last check and balance to the new Federal Power. It seems Colonel Henderson is claiming total control. We have to get him out. He's in the heart of Kansas City, Johnny. There's no way to get to him now.

[00:05:14] We have to leave this city and go to the Badlands to regroup. Don't you mean north? If they declared war on the Mercenaries, they'd probably taken the base already. Everyone would have fled to the Badlands to rally for the war. That was fast.

[00:05:40] That's because I found the perfect place for us. Pack it up, Johnny. Smith, let's go. Come on. We're going up. What about Trucker? He goes up too? Does it need some more dexter? No. Check this out. How did you find this?

[00:06:33] I wanted to get a better view, so I jumped up and climbed the roof. When the whole thing popped out, it's perfect, isn't it? Great job, Dex. Now let's lock it down for 12 hours. That's a routine lockdown period for any city.

[00:06:46] I wonder if they've already found this spot. We're going to have to take that risk. We don't have another option right now. This is one hell of a shit show, Major. Any hope of negotiating for McClintock? No. They're holding him as a federal trader.

[00:07:14] Lieutenant Colonel Merkley is calling the shots now and is not very thrilled. He's never believed Erica could change the votes. Do you blame him? She's never been controllable. That's why she's the one we needed. She's incorruptible. The truth is, sir, I shouldn't have lied to her.

[00:07:29] What's done is done and she's with the militia. She also caused the rift there. And if we can't mend it, I don't know how we can win this war. I know, sir. I'll get to work on that. But shouldn't we send a hand of retrieval team for Bennett?

[00:07:42] Send Jensen with a truck. Where, sir? Figure it out, Major. After you do, I want to plan to get into Vegas. We're going to free those refugees before we go west. Come in. Sir, I'm sorry to interrupt. There's an urgent call for the Major. Keep me posted, Major.

[00:07:58] Yes, sir. What's up, Stevens? It's a contact from Dallas, sir. Interesting. This is Burgess. Sir, you don't know who I am, but we have a common friend. Her son is here. This is a federal channel. It can't be traced. I'm sending a pickup.

[00:08:24] If I can find them, I'll get them out. Hi, this is Sarah F. Hathaway, the creator of the Change in Earth series and the voice of Erica Moore. Visit changeinhersearseries.com to explore the novels behind the drama and the survival knowledge behind the stories.

[00:08:49] Join the Change in Earth membership program and get one week early access to the show. We appreciate you helping the Change in Earth world go round. Visit us at www.changeneerseries.com. That's www.changeneerseries.com. You're up already? I am so sorry. We both chose to come.

[00:09:26] Yeah, but you didn't want to break the family up. We left Daniel. I don't know what I was thinking. I thought we could get in and out. You were thinking of saving your mom. Greg, Penny, Carmen? I don't know how, but we're going to make it.

[00:09:42] We'll go to Dallas, meet back up with Star, get your mom and go through the Southwestern Gate. Oh, you got it all figured out, do ya? Sounds like a good plan, doesn't it? It does. Good morning. Hey there, Badger. Did you hear the joke about the butter?

[00:10:05] No, sir. That's because I didn't want to spread it. Are you leaving? No, we have to, buddy. I'm going to miss your jokes. Say something Anything Do something Come on, we better go. I'm ready. Don't let me stand on this land And be ashamed

[00:10:47] Well, Ms. Moore, I heard what you tried to do for those people in the hospital. It was an honorable effort. Mr. Ferguson was very impressed with you. Governor Dixon wanted me to urge you two not to go. Do I have to fight Cassidy?

[00:11:02] There's nothing I can do about that. The law is the law. Then we have to go. It was really great to have met you, Melvin. Sorry, Melvin, but it is what it is. I can have assistance for you at the southwestern gate. It's the least I can do.

[00:11:18] Thanks. We all have our city. Thank goodness I caught up to you guys before you left. I can't believe you're leaving, so I'm going with you. That's not a good idea, Kyle. Out there, you'll be with federal traders.

[00:11:37] If they catch us, you'll end up in a refugee system. Or worse. Seriously, Kyle, you're a free man here. Don't throw that away. You're right. I am a free man, and I'm free to go with you. Get her! Get off of me! Bring her over here. Attire.

[00:12:05] Here, take this, now. I told you I want blood, bitch. And I told you I don't want to fight. You want to fight? You like that? Fine. You want to fight? You got to fight. Here we go, Cassidy. Stay ready.

[00:12:29] So someone taught you how to fight as well as shoot? Pretty face anymore. Cassidy, watch out! I don't want to kill you. I'm so sorry that I took your father's life, but nothing we do now or ever will bring him back.

[00:13:56] You're a strong woman and a good leader. You're a proud American, and the militia relies upon you. Here we are fighting amongst one another when the real fight is out there. Our country weakens more and more every day. And I will not take the life of someone

[00:14:14] who is fighting for freedom, for the freedom of all of you. So Cassidy, go ahead and kill me. Here, take it. Go ahead. Go ahead and kill me if you think that will honor the memory of your father. Would you stand side by side with me and fight?

[00:14:37] I will. I'm so sorry. The Northern Region is under attack from the Federal Forces. What? The Northern Region is under attack from the Federal Forces. The Federal Forces have invaded the Northern Region to extinguish the mercenary threat. We need y'all back at the Governor's compound now

[00:15:10] if you have this all worked out. We do. Where's Vince? What the fuck? Oh man, my head. It's okay baby, I'm fine. What are you... Holy shit! You're fine? Look at you. Cassidy sorted everything out. Is she okay? She's fine. I mean, she'll be fine.

[00:15:43] Well Vince, the Northern Region is being invaded by the Federal Forces. We have to go back to the Governor's compound and find out what the hell is going on. What about Daniel, Erica? Damn it! I knew something like this was gonna happen.

[00:15:58] Let's get back and find out what's happening and we can contact Virges. He'll have gotten Daniel. I hope you're right. What do you always tell me? God has us right where he wants us. I'll pray that's the truth. Oh how it goes In this stubborn town

[00:16:23] No one seems to know How to get around One cell We see what we are And we do what we teach Let me preach in my word Oh how it goes Say something Anything Do something I need a team Mr. Lee. You're going south? To Dallas.

[00:17:36] The eldest boy and Ben are there. We have confirmation. When? Yesterday sir. Cawks taking 2J. I'm leaving in the morning sir, but while I'm out there I'm going to the western wall in Trans. Hmm. I don't want you out there in the middle of that mess

[00:17:51] when the shit goes down. The fight is the Supreme Generals. The hunt is mine. If you're lighting up the network you should also visit Tillman. What do we need that turncoat for? She's out in the Forkhrunner's area. There's a good chance Erica could go through there.

[00:18:05] And she may not be as ready for a fight. I see your point Mr. Lee. Who are you taking? Yuri and Sergi. I want to travel light. We're going to have pickup vehicles wherever you need them. Take care of her as well. Yes sir.

[00:18:20] Go get some rest son. You look tired. And it's going to be a long trip. Goodnight sir. What are you doing here? Training sir. Come with me. But TJ, I just got here. What did you say? Nothing TJ. I'm coming. Where are we going? You're going home.

[00:18:51] But I've been there all day. I need some exercise. I hear a return to duty in three weeks. Says who? That's what's standard TJ. For a black shirt fighter who gave their child to the nookmates. Those children be raised into the ranks.

[00:19:05] What am I supposed to do TJ? I'm sorry I had the baby. I'm sorry I was shot. What do you want from me? Girl, shut your mouth right now. I am your god and you will address me as such. I should come here. Oh TJ, I'm sorry.

[00:19:23] Shut your mouth. TJ sir. How can I help you sir? Put her on a bike. What TJ? Please don't do this. You don't want to live in the life you have? You're going to learn how different things can be. I'll show you to the station. Push her hard.

[00:19:52] Yes sir. She has a child. A woman named Suzy will bring the child by so she can nurse him. Yes sir. She doesn't lock down with the labors. All of a sudden a guard to take her home. Do not let any man touch her or I'll kill you.

[00:20:05] Yes TJ. If there's any issues while I'm out of town, then go directly to Mr. Lee. Yes sir. When pass away in a tank When the end of the day I have no reason to be ashamed Good whatever time it is sir. Good afternoon Dex.

[00:21:01] We're in a pickle now aren't we sir? There used to be a mercenary base in the northwest corner of the city. Grabs and Chow and Johnny go scout it out. Yes sir. What's up Dex? Get ready to move. Make me some.

[00:21:30] We need to get eyes on an exit route. Go West young man. You got it.

[00:22:16] A friendly smile has turned into a frown. I'm moving on. Fed team down on the street. Let's try to circle around. Trucker found us a path. Let's try to get into the attic of one of those homes. Trucker stay. We can get a good view from up here.

[00:23:09] What do you see? Feds are holding the mercs prisoner. All the common areas are full of prisoners. There must be thousands of them. How many guards? About... 200? Too many for us. How did 200 take a thousand? I don't know. But that's what it looks like to me.

[00:23:31] We need to move. What are they going to do with all those people? The system is already overloaded. You want to circle around? There's no need to risk it. Let's go out the back and go north for a few yards

[00:23:47] to see what the Merck gate looks like at the fence. But that will find more of the same. We'll figure it out, buddy. I can get a nice vantage point down there. Do it. The change that you've been looking for will... It's all locked down tight.

[00:24:21] It's time to check in anyway. Hi, this is Jane Austen, otherwise known as Survivor Jane and the voice of Dolores Chapman. I'd like to invite you to my website, SurvivorJane.com where I write in a conversational tone on topics of how better to prepare yourself and family.

[00:24:54] You can also find links to my books, What Could Possibly Go Wrong, Emergency Survival Hygiene, and my game book Puzzling Over Preparedness. You can also find information on Prepper Camp, the largest three-day preparedness event in the country every fall, hosted by myself and my husband Rick Austen.

[00:25:13] Erica, I brought you some bandages. Are you sure you're going to be okay, babe? I don't want to miss this, Vince. We've been invited to the leadership meeting. Here, let me help you then. They must stand in their regional groups. Whoops that way.

[00:25:36] There's that guy that was in Houston, Mr. Ferguson? That guy over there. He represented the Constitutionalist Party for the Central Region. Oh crap, what was his name? Emory, uh, Emory Hawn. That's it. They're increasing the amount of soldiers. I called you all together because of an urgent situation

[00:26:03] we feared was going to happen, but now it has become a reality. The Federal Forces have made some bold moves in the last 24 hours. The Constitutionalist Party members have been arrested and are sitting with General McClintock in federal prison under a charge of collusion with the resistance movement.

[00:26:21] Their seats have been given to Social Safety Party members as well as those from the Congressional Party that they are able to control. The first order was to eliminate the mercenary and malicious soldiers. Members had to join the Federal Forces or accept a refugee designation for themselves

[00:26:39] and their family. We receive word that most are head of west. We have communications being routed to their commanders as we speak. Attacking the governing board and the independent factions was not enough, though. They are performing a full-on invasion in the northern region under charges of grand treason.

[00:27:01] It is being wiped clean of landowners and refugees alike. Oh, shit! I can't believe this. It's true. They opened up the gates and started rolling in tanks. They're headed for the mercenary bases first. There's nothing we can do now, Derek. We will take it back one day.

[00:27:21] We are not going to sit here and wait for them to set their sights on us. What do you suggest, Governor? Bernie, I'm suggesting that we take the opportunity to reclaim all of Texas. The battle for the south is about to begin.

[00:27:35] Ted, do you think your men are ready to accomplish this? We could use all the help we can get, but I think we're ready, especially if they're focused on the north. Derek's northern soldiers are retreating to the Badlands with the mercenaries.

[00:27:52] You send any reserves in to help attack the new Mexico border, Cassidy? Yes, sir. I have three teams at the ready as we speak. Yamir, I can't even get you back into the central region, so I know you can't get anyone else. You've got that right, sir.

[00:28:09] We are working on our way through. If you will give me a power of your titanator. You got it. Emory, think you can get any teams across the water? No, sir. Federal forces have formed battleships out in Mississippi. Any disturbance from the Appalachian region,

[00:28:35] no ships will be aimed right at us. We all do respect, sir. And I mean all do respect. You can flee inland, but we can't. We're working on a solution, but right now we have to hope that cutting them off our fuel

[00:28:56] will cripple them enough to get a foothold until we can organize with the mercs in the Badlands. The last order of business is that you may have noticed that I invited Erica and her husband, Vince Moore, into our inner circle.

[00:29:10] We have agreed to help her get her mom out of Dallas and get her teams moved. Erica's mother, Nancy Fisher, is no longer in Dallas. I have contacts within the textile factories reporting that Matthew Tweed removed her himself.

[00:29:24] The assumption is that he took her to the Vegas camp. Great. Just great. Thank you for the intel, Katie. Please welcome Erica and Vince and give them any assistance they need. I'll talk to you both privately in a minute. Now, let's get ready to take back what's ours.

[00:29:41] Come on, Erica. Let's find you a doctor. Vince, Erica, I still want you to join us. We're headed to Vegas too. One division of our forces will head west around the southern tip of the Ogallala Lake and attack the southwestern border crossing.

[00:30:03] We'll contact the mercs and start taking the west. It will take some time, but we'll get there. Time may not be something we have a lot of. Why? What's going on? Come on. I'll walk with you to see my doctor.

[00:30:22] We've got a hold of information indicating another quake may be on the way. We're going to lose the coast again. How much of the coast? We're not sure, but we'll definitely lose Vegas.

[00:30:33] The scientist I talked to says he thinks there will be more volcanic activity this time as well. We'll have to push up some timelines, but now we have time to prepare. I know you have all the strength to find your way

[00:30:57] as you teach the world to be brave. Follow the line that speaks to your eyes even stronger every time that you cry. Excuse me, sir. It's okay. Dexter, is that you? No freaking way. Rob? Rob Duncan? What in the world are you doing here?

[00:31:51] Actually, I'm looking for you. Dad sent me. Come on, we gotta get you off the street. Can we trust this guy? 150%. Rob and I are like brothers. Families left California together and we grew up together at the refugee camp. I told you about Rob.

[00:32:11] He's the one whose family your mom and dad rescued after the Great Quake, right? When they sent you to Lotus Camp with Star who you just met. Yeah. Anyway, they killed the guy causing all the problems and made it home.

[00:32:23] Brought a ton of supplies with them too. That's when I met Rob. And since then, we've been like brothers. Ain't that right, Dex? That's right, bro. They're the lot of good memories in that crap whole camp. Is this cool, Rob? Whose place is this?

[00:32:43] It's my place. Well, my parents are my place. Dad got a big promotion and we got clearance to leave the Las Vegas camp and come here. That's how dad knew you were in trouble. Thanks, Rob. I'm so happy for you guys.

[00:32:56] I heard that your folks found your grandparents. We rooted for them through the trial, which was complete BS by the way. But what happened to you, Dex? I knew in the mercenaries after we got to my grandparents' place, I just couldn't act like nothing had happened.

[00:33:10] I get it. You liked training in Vegas. Who's your friends? This is my faithful companion trucker, and this is my partner in crime, Johnny McClintock. McClintock? Is this General McClintock's son? That's right. I know. Thanks for your concern.

[00:33:27] The Federal Forces uncovered evidence of mercenaries working with the resistance movement. They've been blasting it all over the airwaves. The Federal Forces have been taking control of all mercenary bases. The soldiers can either join the Federal Force or be transferred to refugee processing centers, along with their families.

[00:33:44] The Constitutionalists on the Federal Governing Board were also implicated and removed. Plus, the resistance has large numbers in the Northern region, so most of the Federal Army is moving to invade. You guys are in big trouble if they catch you. Did you really kill those feds?

[00:33:59] We had no choice. What's going on out there? Don't worry. It's closing time. Let's go into the back room, just in case. It's time to move anyway. Come on. I have my own apartment back here. Very nice, Rob. Oh no. TJ Swenson.

[00:34:36] To what do I owe the honor? The Supreme General sent me to collect Erica Moore. She's not in our town. No, but her son is. Major Jarvis is blunder. It's true. The boy is here. What did you find in the lockdown? Nothing.

[00:34:54] Is Gerald Duncan still working in the communications department? He is. How is he connected? I'm not sure that he is connected, but he has a past with the Moors. He also has a son. You're right. He does. Hmm. I know that Duncan's very reliable workers.

[00:35:20] Do you think they're involved? You can search it without causing suspicion. No one forgets when I visit. Oh, I bet not, sir. I'll leave a team to assist if you need them, but I need to move on. I understand, sir.

[00:35:35] Show the Supreme General you can get the job done. We'll get this solved. Baby, I'm coming, coming for ya. Baby, I'm coming, coming for ya. Baby, I'm coming, coming for ya. Baby, I'm coming, coming for ya. Disaster coffee is fueling disaster relief in America.

[00:36:07] Our coffee is roasted to order and shipped to your front door. You cannot get it any fresher. Visit disastercoffee.com and caffeinate with a purpose. That's disastercoffee.com Rob, are you here? Yeah, dad. Can you come here for a minute? Sure. Lieutenant Ashish, what a surprise.

[00:36:39] I finally got a chance to come by and see that new place. This is a much nicer home than that government apartment you had. It sure is, sir. This home reminds me of the first home my family and I owned.

[00:36:57] When I opened up my first clothing store back in Atlanta. And Rob, don't you have your own apartment in this house? I do, sir. It's nice to have my own space. Whoa, a young man needs his own space, Rob. I've been watching you. You're a hard-working young man.

[00:37:23] Your numbers on your installation cruise is superb. Thank you, sir. Now son, let's see that place of yours. Oh, you wanted to see it now? You know how bachelor's are. It's really messy. Of course, son. I was young once too. I wouldn't be surprised.

[00:37:44] I didn't come all this way to get nothing less than the grand tour. Yes, of course, sir. Well, come on, son. Get with it. You have your own bedroom right here and a bathroom back there. Yes, sir. Quite a change from how I grew up.

[00:38:06] See what happens when you're a productive member of our great society, son? Yes, sir. Well, gentlemen, the place is wonderful. And I would love to stay and say hello to the Mrs. But I have got to quiet that storm rolling in from the south.

[00:38:28] Houston won't survive the day. Oh, those arrogant rednecks should have gotten with the program a long time ago. And we'd be sending the federal rescuer squads to help. I'm sure the people would be better off. Thank you for the lovely tour. Did you find him?

[00:38:53] Yeah. He's here or was here. Maybe they went out the window. Nope. There's guards out there. Oh my God, Dexter. Look at you. You've grown so much. And you have some new scars. Found my grandparent? I heard. Why didn't you stay, Dex?

[00:39:22] I didn't fit in in that world, Harold. Not after all we've been through and... And there was this girl? Okay, okay. So there was a girl. But my choice to become a merc was not because of her. It was the best choice for Trucker and me.

[00:39:39] I met Johnny and he's the real love of my life. Oh, you're... Hey, hell no. It's not gay, Harold. We're just horny. Seriously, Dex. It's nice to see you but have you heard what is going on? How do you plan on getting out of here?

[00:39:59] I heard from the federal forces major who tried to arrest me that war has been declared on the mercenaries. I know my mom and dad aren't in the northern region. We know Johnny's dad is in a federal prison

[00:40:12] and Bennett is waiting for me to come back with intel. But I still have no idea how we're going to get out of here. The federal forces are doing much more than that. chatter indicates they are mobilizing full invasion on the north.

[00:40:27] They are selling us northern treason against the union. The major social safety members will end up controlling it all. My brother and grandparents are still there. Dexter, get to this address. I'll get her the message and she'll be ready for you. Okay.

[00:40:48] We will see each other again. Now go. Where are they? The down south. Maybe headed your way. Good to see you, Rob. Take care of your old man. Well, it's about time gentlemen. Where have you been? We ran into Rob Duncan. Harold's son?

[00:41:29] The same. Harold's been stationed here. He has a way out for us. But we have to go tonight. Do you still trust him Dexter? Without question. You sure? Time can change people. He has a nice comfortable federal job now.

[00:41:45] Why would he want to put all that at risk? Why did you sir? Here. This is where Harold said to go. The feds have invaded the north, sir. Full invasion. All the merc faces are forfeited. We'll have to regroup out west. What are you talking about master sergeant?

[00:42:05] We're not headed out west. We're going north. Johnny's dad, my brother and grandparents. Major Virgis. They are all there. We have to help them. Help them do what Dex? Vacuate to the west. Look around. There's four of us.

[00:42:20] We knew this day might come and the plan is to regroup with the mercenaries and refugees in the west. And plan our strategy from there. Fine then. Johnny and I will go. No Dex, we won't. My dad's in trouble too but I think the master sergeant is right.

[00:42:34] We have to regroup with the mercenary force if we have any hope of winning this war. You're only saying that because there's no hope of saving your dad. My brother needs me. Whatever Dex. Dexter, knock that shit off.

[00:42:46] If you go north you'll die and he'll be no help to anyone. Right now we need to focus on getting out of this city. And I need both of your heads 100% in the game. Do you hear me soldiers? Yes sir.

[00:43:03] The ash on your tricep was the worst of it. I had to stitch the muscle back together. Those stitches will dissolve on their own. The ones holding the skin together will have to be removed in a few weeks. What about the ones on her face? Same situation.

[00:43:18] They need to be removed in a few weeks. Thanks Doc. Eight stitches. Eight ugly stitches in my face. Erica, we need to go now. I'm no Vince. Things are way out of control now. We have to find Bennett and find out what happened to Daniel.

[00:43:41] I can't believe this happened. I knew we shouldn't have split up. And now we're spread all over the country. God knows where Dexter is now. Who knows what happened to Star? We need some info ASAP. Erica, what are we gonna do? I don't know Vince. Sorry.

[00:44:03] I had no idea this would happen. I'm sorry to interrupt but I heard you talking about your family and I understand how hard it is to be away from them. But you can't leave now. I hated you Erica. I wanted to kill you so bad.

[00:44:21] I heard your story everywhere. The lone survivor of Sacramento. I hated that too. I couldn't escape the talk about the heroes defying the new system. I even hated the hope it was given people that we could be free once again. You have to be there to help.

[00:44:39] The people will need to know you are with them. They will follow you because they identify with you. Don't throw that moment away now. Look at me, what's the problem? I'm not a veteran. I hate to say that. I hate my family. I hate my family.

[00:45:00] I hate my people. I hate my family. I hate my family. I hate my family. I hate my family. I hate my family. They need you too. Right now all I want is some sleep. You get that. You're one brutal lady. As are you. What's up? Nothing.

[00:45:51] Come on Vince, I'm tired. What's up? That woman, Cassidy. Maybe she's right. What? You are a figurehead. You rally the troops. Just like Bennett wanted. It doesn't matter, Vince. They used us to try and change the country. Now we're going to war.

[00:46:17] I have no idea what's going on. I have no idea what's happening to my children. We're where we are for a reason. I always say, God has us right where he wants us. Well, maybe God has us right where he wants us. Governor Dixon will establish

[00:46:33] communication with the Murph Army and we'll get the news that way. Hopefully, Major Burgess got my mom and dad and Daniel out before the invasion. Are you serious? I'm not serious. I'm just kidding. Are you serious, Vince? You're the one who wanted to leave so bad. I know,

[00:46:55] but that woman, she wanted to kill you, and look what you did. Got caught up and barely survived? No. You stood your ground and now she's begging you to join her army. That's incredible. Life is what it is

[00:47:15] where we are. Who's to say we're not right where we're supposed to be? I'd feel much better if I knew the kids were safe. I agree. The practice makes perfect, you know. This struggle got purpose and we grow. So whatever role we have to take next

[00:47:58] All I need to know is that we'll roll with the punches We'll roll with the punches Punches Punches TJ, I didn't know you were drinking Patches' Bump with you. She could take a look at the books while we're here. You're too kind, Jimmy. What are you after, TJ?

[00:48:58] Erica Moore. The chick was on truck. The refugees called her the Rome's Vile. The savior of the refugees. I want to call her mine, Sticker in a Cage and Tamer. Of course you would, TJ. How can I help? You can start by bringing that little redhead over here.

[00:49:16] Lisa, over here. Aren't you a beauty? You'll definitely do for tonight. I knew coming out here was a good idea. You should visit me more often, TJ. Always too much to do and not enough time. Isn't that the truth?

[00:49:42] My intel tells me that Erica may be going through the western wall. The Supreme General has alerted the guards at the wall. And you know the quality of work the feds do. It is at the edge of my territory, TJ. But I'll send teams.

[00:49:56] You're damn right, you will. And I don't want to hear your excuses, Jimmy. Lisa, do not take another step away from him. You like this one, don't you, Tran? Get over here, Sugar. You know you can have whatever is mine, TJ. Without you, I would be nothing.

[00:50:14] And that's why you have the position you have. What do you need from me? I need another boat to get contact over the Bogolala. I'll see what I can do. Talk to Patrice about whatever else you need.

[00:50:29] I have an errand to run, and I'll pick her up on the way back. Don't worry, TJ. I'll treat her like a queen. Would you like another glass of wine, Patrice? Absolutely. I heard you helped take down the leader of the Moly Shed-Up who's infesting TJ's lands.

[00:50:45] Get out that all the way out here. I'll let Travis quickly, my friend. Specially when you're a good son. That little girl was so confused. And when I saw her pull a gun on TJ, I knew I had to do something. You should have seen it.

[00:51:01] She comes out of nowhere and knocked him out cold. Let's go, wave like you see me now.

[00:52:01] Dexter? Dexter? Oh my goodness. Is that you? Come in. Hi, Betsy. It's me. Dexter, what are you doing back here? Back here? You didn't tell me you saw Dexter today. He's wanted by the Feds. Lieutenant Ashish was at the house today.

[00:52:26] If you didn't know, you wouldn't have had to lie. What are you doing back here? You have to get out tonight. I have to know if my brother's okay. You can't find out. Please, Harold. I have to know. You're asking a lot, Dex. I know, but...

[00:52:44] I'll tell you what I can do. Come with me. This is a list from the invasion thus far. Oh my gosh. It keeps going. Let's search for Daniel. I can't find Daniel. Thank God. I can't find your grandparents either. See, there's hope.

[00:53:21] You only have a few hours to get out of here. What's wrong, Harold? The Feds are sweeping the city for tunnels. That block will get swept in two days, and the entrance is scheduled to be sealed in four hours. Oh crap. Here, take this.

[00:53:40] I know you have your pack stashed somewhere closed. I love you, Dexter. Take care, Dex. And it is gonna be so pissed? Get in here. Boy, I should. Daniel's name wasn't on the list. What are you talking about, Dex? Where have you been? I went back to Harold's.

[00:54:17] I knew he could find out if Daniel was okay. He showed me a list of the deceased. It was long, but Daniel's name wasn't on it. Neither were my grandparents or Major Verges. I see. It still does excuse you breaking formation and heading off on your own.

[00:54:33] What if something would have happened? I wasn't alone. I had trucker. Still, Dex. Not okay. Is this your boy? Yes, ma'am. Thank you for letting us wait for him. Before the Feds started sweeping the tunnels, we could have waited all night.

[00:54:50] But now, I'll be sad to see my little piece of the refugee underground railroad shut down. Come on, guys. I'll show you the way. Mr. McClintock, it's time to go. Oh, Mom. Can't they stay a little while longer? I'm sorry, Boston.

[00:55:09] I wish they could stay longer too, but it's just not safe. Okay, Mommy. I sure had fun, Boston. You take care of that mom of yours. Yeah, okay. Johnny, you could come back and visit anytime. Hey, Johnny. Uh, hey, Dex.

[00:55:28] You know, there was a time when one of my ancestors was shown a road to freedom just like this. That woman went on and had a family and a very full life. This will be the last time I get to do the same for you all.

[00:55:41] So I want you to step out of that tunnel, new man ready to change the world. Ma'am, we will do our very best. I'm sure you will. Now, help me move this. Climb down this tunnel, and it opens into a conduit that runs power and fiber optic cables.

[00:56:03] Turn left and keep crawling. You have four miles until you will come to another dirt tunnel. Follow it and knock at the door. They know you're coming. It's going to be a tight fit for you, big man. I'll manage. Come on, Trucker. It's okay. Come on. Come on.

[00:56:21] Thank you for all you've done. New men. Harvesting herbs for dinner? TJ, what are you doing here? Stay on your knees, woman. Did you doubt I wouldn't show up after this stunt you pulled at the trial? How did you get past my men?

[00:56:49] You can be sure we're going to discuss that. But I'm the one asking questions. Do you understand? That woman has been through enough. No, that woman is my bounty. She should have come home with me. Her children were mutilated. After what your black shirts did to my son,

[00:57:07] I know how she feels. Maybe you're mistaking me for a federal soldier. Or maybe you're ready to fill the pain of my beloved Sheila. I'm sorry, TJ. We got off on the wrong foot. Why don't you come in and have a drink?

[00:57:23] I'm sure we can sort this out. That's much better. Get up. Let's go. Sir J. Clear it. Yuri, stay with TJ. You made an interesting choice letting that woman go. It definitely made my life more complicated. You have nothing to say?

[00:57:47] What do you want me to say, TJ? I did what I thought was right. It is all clear, TJ. Let's go have that drink. Did you come to take my land? That's up to you. What do you want? Miss Tillman, are you okay? Step back!

[00:58:14] Who are you? Don't you- Bert, shut your mouth right now. Stand over there and stay quiet. Yes, ma'am. And who is this rude bastard? This is the head of security, Bert Green. He is responsible for the joke of a perimeter that you maintain? Yes, TJ.

[00:58:33] You're lucky you're not one of my men. I'd have you skinned. What can we do for you, TJ? Erica Moore may come through here. If she does, you'll bring her to me. If you don't, you'll lose everything and you'll spend endless hours screaming for my men.

[00:58:48] The Supreme General is done with your game. Oh, God. Boy, how did I end up behind the dog? At least you don't have any nose up your ass. I feel like a sweaty sausage being squeezed through its skin. We should have only a few yards to go, sir.

[00:59:18] Well, can't you a sight for sore eyes? Bert just sent me to collect you, sir. Then he made it to the rendezvous point? Sir. Oh, thank God. This is Private First Class Moore. I'm sure he's curious how his family is doing.

[00:59:49] Daniel, Star and your grandparents all made it to Reno as well. What about Star's husband, Sean? That will impaired, sir. Long story short, Star's headed to the rendezvous point and Sean Vand has headed back north with the blessings of the federal forces. How's that? Let her explain that.

[01:00:07] And what about my father? No good news, Corporal. He is still alive, but we're not sure for how long. Fuck. The militiamen are on the move, sir. Looks as if they're headed to take back Dallas along with northern Texas.

[01:00:20] Well, at least as far as the battleships can reach. Do you think they'll try to take the southwestern wall? Red radio sounds from the feds in that area, sir. They're scrambling to find out what is going on but their forces are still occupied in the north.

[01:00:35] So there's a little they can do now. They'll be going after that wall. Mark my words. They could unite the southern militiamen to the soldiers roaming the Badlands. Now is the time to take them. Don't even think about it, sir.

[01:00:47] Major Virg just gave me a strict order to get you to Nevada. You guys want a Pemekin bar? Heck yeah. Where'd you get these? Bet you gave them two beans. You want one, Johnny? No. Sorry for what I said, Johnny. It's cool, bro. No. It's not.

[01:01:18] It was a messed up thing to say. I really wish I had. Yeah, it was a dickhead thing to say, but I get you. You didn't know if your brother and grandparents were alive or not. And man, it does hurt. It does. The thing is... Yeah?

[01:01:33] The last time I talked to my dad, I told him he was an idiot for staying and hung up on him. I didn't say goodbye or I love you. He knows Johnny. He knows you love him. But I didn't get to tell him.

[01:01:46] And now I may never get to. I'll never hear your voice. Call up to me again. And love is an addiction that makes beggars of us all. And I shall take whatever comes my way. You're gonna need this. Body armor. That's comforting.

[01:02:17] He didn't expect to sit in the truck the whole time, did you? No, ma'am. It's just... Nobody ever gave a shit about me. At least not enough to put armor on me. You're with the militia now, woman. We'll take good care of you.

[01:02:30] I'll see you when we get to Brady. Sounds good. That's gonna suck. Wearing all this gear and this hot, muggy weather. Isn't that the truth? Here, I think you have your strap twisted. Hello, Erica. I miss them too.

[01:02:56] But you're gonna have to get your head in the game. What would Bennett say? Suck it up, cupcake. We got a job to do. You're right. As soon as we get through the gates, we're gonna start hitting the federal checkpoints. Cassidy said they should be minimally staffed

[01:03:14] because of the invasion in the north. The militia team should be able to handle it. But we need to be ready to go. Radio silence. An advantage and a disadvantage all at once. The longer it takes them to notice us, the better.

[01:03:29] Yamera's headed back to the central region. Can you imagine trying to maintain a low profile there? But he provides critical information. Again, just sketchy. This must be great. It's beautiful. Looks like the feds have been cleared out already. Look at that, Vince. The old Gauwala. It's huge.

[01:04:33] Don't get too close to that edge, baby. How was the ride? Hot and sweaty? I hear that. What's the plan? Phillip's team is heading north. The ferry will escort the troops to the other side of the lake. They're going to enter New Mexico from there.

[01:04:50] Timing will be the key to our victory. How far do we have to go? We'll stop one more time in Picos. We'll split up there. I'm leading a team to the board the train scheduled to enter the southern wall.

[01:05:02] The communications hub is located on the tracks inside the wall. The train would take us in and after we take out the communications hub, we'll light a flare and the squads will converge on the gate to draw the fire while the inserted teams remove the snipers.

[01:05:18] We'll finish clearing the concrete gun and placements in trenches that line the wall and the southern wall will be ours after that. It'll be dark by the time we get there. Light will challenge the skill of the snipers and make the flare easier to see.

[01:05:32] We're ready to go. I'm on my way. One more stop and we're headed in. Yes, new channel. There's the app. I'll see you guys on the other side. Good luck. Kick some ass. We'll do. Hope you're ready, Miss Saviour. Jeez, who peed in his cheerio?

[01:05:52] William Baker was his best friend. Oh. Here, babe. Nothing says potential last supper like mac and cheese. I'll take it. The lone survivor. Scars are a pain. I wish the memories would. A lot of good came from those scars too.

[01:06:26] So many of these kids aren't going to make at home. You okay? I'm so pissed, Erica. Frustrated with life. Missing my kids. Right now, all I need is a target and I'll kill all those bastards. I think you're going to get a chance.

[01:07:05] Thanks for listening to the Changing Earth Audio Drama. This content is copywritten in 2023 by author Sarah F. Hathaway. Special thanks to featured musician Five Times August. Find his latest hits at FiveTimesAugust.com. Get to know our amazing performers and listen to the soundtrack at ChangingEarthSeries.com.

[01:07:50] Special thanks to ZapSplat, Freesound.com, and FreeMusicArchives.com. Find all the music and sound attributes at author SarahFHathaway.com. Stay tuned for more of the Changing Earth adventure.