4-5 Echoes of Sacrifice

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, and always harness. The pain for my own strength. The Great Quake brought misery and death to a cantless number of people, but it made me a god ruler of my domain. The greatest bounty hunter. Do you ever live? No one? No one dares run from TJ. Swinson except one. 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. Look at Mom. She loves inspiring those soldiers. Yeah, but I think Bennett's scowl grows bigger each time her smile grows whiter. Yeah, the vein in his forehead is about to explode. I don't like this. I'm going to follow them. You're didn't go for a run with Trucker? Sounds good? You know your daughter looked just the same way when I interrogated her. You've better been nice. Come on, Erica, it's me. Yeah, that's just what I'm afraid of. Why did you do it? Erica? Oh? Come on, Bennett, really, why did we leave? Why didn't you tell me? Because I knew you would do something stupid and that was right? No, you were wrong. You want to know why I left? I left because you lied. I asked straight up and you lied. I gave you the chance to tell me, and you lied. You lied when the lives of my family and closest friends were on the line. You would have sat safely in the north, hoping upon diplomacy while people died and you knew it was coming. You're no different from the fence who decided to close down the California border after the Great Quake. That is not fair, Erica. I'm under orders, of course you are. Your orders always come first. Yeah, they do, Erica. That's just the way it is. It's my job to protect you, and if you haven't noticed, I've been doing a fine job. Let's see. I trained you to protect yourself. I got you out of Vegas, I saved your husband in Montana, and I just saved your ass again last night. I know. And I can't begin to repay you for what you've done for me. Yes you can. You should follow your heart, but must also follow my orders. You owe me that I appreciate you, Bennett. I do, but I don't owe you that. You're asking me to give up my freedom, the very thing we're fighting for, in exchange for what? For orders from you? We've been through this too many times. How about in exchange for your life and your husband's life. You know, the ones I've been saving over and over and over again. The ones you've been saving over and over. Why, Bennett, Why so that you could use me as a puppet to stir up the people. It's not like that, Erica. Really Las Vegas. Get us out so Matthew Tweed can't kill us, and we can help the resistance Montana. Get us back into society, even at the possibility of a federal prison camp and life as a refugee again, so we can go on public display. Why did you save us this time? What do you need us for now? Nothing? It's not like that this time. Then? Why do you care if I follow orders? Because then always know right where you are. I don't know, a Bennett. So much has happened in the past few weeks. Do you know what? Watch people die on the streets, babies because you were looking for us? Did you have to go there? You freaking left Erica. You were on federal probation and you left. You can't come back after that. They will kill you. I was going to bring you back without incidents, so no one would ever know. Well, my friends and family died. Damn that woman. You and your husband made a fool of me. Did you know that your son and I were almost arrested in Dallas? We were hunted and I had to crawl through four miles of tunnel behind your son's dogs ass because of you. Oh you think that's funny. We're leaving in the morning. No, I'm staying with the militia. What are you talking about. Your family is back in Reno at the Mert base. I know, don't you want to see them? I do, But we're taking out Las Vegas before we move east, with the refugees behind them army so they can be evacuated, right will Yeah, but Cassy and Eli already talked to me about the plans when we were down south. The militia has never hidden anything from me since I entered their camp. Damn it, Eric, I don't walk away. The woman is one crazy lady. I have to tell you. I never expected that phone call Erica Moore. I don't know how she does. It, but she inspires everyone. The leader of leaders. Yeah, I guess you're right, Ben, and pointed out to me at the trial in the Northern Region. She can intoxicate them all. But now I have two crazy women to deal with. Is that's the truth? Is Bennett bringing Erica back here? Yeah? Nobody knows that can't like Vincent Erica. It'd be nice to have them to help plan the attack. Why didn't you go with Bennett to get them? Erica needs to make some decisions. Either she's going to trust us and be a member of the team or not. And that's fair, but I think you need to treat her like one of the team then, and not a protected asset. I'll talk to her when they get back. Here. Are you heading out to the homesteads? I was thinking about heading out there. We're gathering all the fighters we can to go into Denver. I'll keep soaring through the refugees. The ones from Vegas will just about double our forces. Powder is always the problem, but we'll be all set if we. Can get that supply from Texas. Why don't you hang out until Ben and Erica get back. I want to visit with Cassidy. I can be back before the invasion. Well it's about time, boss man. Let her go, Bennett, Vince, what are you doing. Here waiting for you? Let's talk a minute. You know, Bennett, tactics. Aren't going to work this time. She is the most stubborn little She's stubborn. You know what, Bennette. She is exactly what you made her to be. You've been trying to mold her from the moment you met her, to change her, make her into what you thought was best for her. I know sometimes it doesn't seem like it, but she has tried to be exactly what you wanted. She came home night after night, bruised from your training, hurt from your challenge. Does she ever complain? Did she ever give up? You know what I wanted. I wanted to take. My wife and kids and live in the woods, someplace we could grow food, live, spend time together. Now here we are wrapped up in the center of this conflict because you told her she can save the world. I know you saved my life specifically, But Bennett, she's given you her life. She trusted you to be her friend. Hell, she gave you our lives. It's time you take a second and realize that. Hence I'm jealous of you. I'm sorry. You've got such a great woman and beautiful kids. Your family is solid and one hundred percent loyal to each other wherever you've lived, whatever is happening around you, Guys, you're happy as long as you're together. I'm sorry for cause you, guys, to make the decision you did. You've got to let her in, Bennett. She will follow your lead, but she needs to know where you're headed first. You know she loves you. You're not threatened, are you, Vince, Because it's never been like that, Bennett. I've never been jealous of another man in my life. With Erica. I trust my wife one hundred percent. We talk about everything, We respect each other's opinions and work hard to find a solution that will make both of us happy. We've had you as part of our lives for a long time. Now you'll have to face it. You're one of the family, whether you like it or not. I can imagine worse things. What do I do about her? Talk to her? Just be straight with her. Thanks, Vince, anytime, so. To what you. Believe in. In heavy Russ, we keep going dancing. Your sweet traveled by saying some menus. You can't beat the smell of gun oil. They should make it a cologne. Erica. I don't know how else to say this, and I'm terrible that this stuff, so I'm just gonna say it. I'm sorry. We've both given a lot of ourselves and been through some missed up stuff on this journey. I'm sorry I didn't talk to you. I know I have orders, but you guys are all the family I have, and I'm sorry I put on the line by not talking to you. I'm sorry too. You've been the greatest mentor and taught me so much. We shouldn't have left like we did. We made a snap decision, and I apologize for leaving you like that. It was wrong. It looks like you're ready for inspection. Yes, sir, I guess I am. Why don't you pack it up and spend time with your boy. I've got to check with Eli, but I'll meet you guys at chow time. Sounds good to me. You should spread your wings, take off starting. What if I all on to. The joy o. Wise rain. Too much? I thought you took it out. You got this crap sorted. Yes, sir, it's about damn time boy. With eric otaking care of and you're in surgery bringing back new stock, I'm ready to relax. You still have dicks in to Yeah, but the spring in general is and it's concerned with him. Dixon doesn't stir up the people the way Erica did. You've got a visitor here and you will love this. Well then jel. Moon in. TJ. He said, well, look what we have here. Kareem gentlemen. My, how the mighty have fallen? TJ. We tried to bring her in. I heard you had her all wrapped up, but couldn't hold on to her. The militia forces overwhelmed us. Don't you ever lie to me? Somehow the thermals didn't pick them up. They were wearing something that hid them. How do you know that their feet were the only thing my men could see, and they were faint. Interesting. Please make my son one of your men. Don't put them in the refugee system. What about your future, It doesn't matter. I want my son to be able to have a child one day. Black Shirts don't raise their children, but they can produce. I'll put him to the test. He will pass or fail on his own accord. Do you want the woman? No, I'll tak your first, put her in my sale, Jamie. Yess wait, yiss it, Krean, what happened to your guard Bert? He was killed? Good? I would have done it myself if that wasn't the case. Hello, this is L. Douglas Hogan, voice of TJ. Swinson. You can follow me at Amazon or go to Facebook dot com slash honor your oath. I look forward to seeing you there. Human trafficking is not fiction. It's a reality in every country. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children explains that every thirty seconds, a child is trafficked in the United States. If you see something, say something, dial eight eight eight three seven three seven eight eight eight or visit Human Traffickinghotline dot org for more contact information. You may be helping to save a life. Good morning, boys and girls. Let's go with people. It's five o'clock. Time to move all right, time, Erica. I'll see you in the briefing room, Cupcake. I guess I'll see you at the chow line. I guess so say cool. Begin, Yes, sir, we'll drive straight through. Yes, sir, over and now sir, morning Cupcake, Good morning, sir. What's up? You wanted to be informed? Well, this is the briefing hour. Oh okay, after chow, we're headed back to Reno. But I told you Erica, you're being informed, but this is not open for debate. Listen. After choo, we're headed back to Reno. The FETs know who you guys are here, which endangers this whole force. The mercenaries are working on sweeping out the federal forces pockets and the badlands, and then they're headed at Las Vegas. I was told to assemble a team that knows the facility. I'll have three weeks to get this team ready to infiltrate their refugee camp to remove critical targets that could be used as leverage against us before the mercenary army attacks it. Are you in? You know? I am good. Grab some chow and get over to the truck. Dex knows where it's at. You're dismissed, so send Jensen in one your way out. Okay, Oh hey, Jensen, mercarget Benett's ready for you, sir. You sill, Let me tell you everything I've seen friends I've met, Let me tell me how you been. Look a little closer. It's been quite some time. You gotta let me know if I'm out everybody. But there's some words that I just wanna say. What I straight before? There's not just in today. Little my motherway. Man, he said, my mother. Way, Erica, wake up, we're here. Good to see you. Sorry, good to see you too, Dad, to see you too. And we have places for you to sleep. Hold on a second, what's the plan, sir? You have two days then we started? Good night, sir. There are so many tents and three times, there's many people. I've had my hand full. Kay, Star you made it. Oh, thank god? Hi mom, Hey baby, Hey they're superstar. Hi Dad. I'm so glad you to were back. It was a long trip. Oh my goodness, Eric, what happened to your face? You know, same old story, Kay, there. Will be plenty of time to tell us about it. Come on in, who's that it's naked? Her family didn't make it, and Johnny, you've probably heard about his dad, my dad. Daniel that you don't. I know that I was not always about. I made you feel feel alone. You spent most of the nights that just sitting on your own. I should have done so much more like giving you into things you asked before. And I know I was wrong. It's what I tried to tell you with, and so tell you with. What if I said, I'm sorry, I've got them all under one roof again. You've been blessing your entire family a while. That's true. I don't understand why you need to put that rent. We can talk about it tomorrow. Dad. I know that I've done so many things let you down, but I hope that you give me one chance to. Make you mine. When I close close my eyes. You know that you're the only thing I see. Hello, Jimmy Trump the lady, Yes, sir, that is some little lady you got the t J. Jimmy Tran, have a seat at my table. Drink yes, sir, Thank you, t J. I can't thank you enough for doing that pick up for me. No worries, teacher, I already had men in the area. The Supreme General is going to Bob Albuquerque. If you have people in the area, get them out. You know you're more than welcome. Anytime it seems like there's something else on your mind than Tillman. I can get anything. By t J. Swinson can I no, sir, So what do you need? I want to buy factress. I've never owned that woman, and I didn't say that. What's what you're worried about? DJ? She knows too much to be let go. Trust I do, but she betray you. No, I love her, TJ. I want to have her in my life every day. What testim? Meeting with your teacher? Ask him? Would you like to play to spaghetti? Yes? Thank you, DJ. This is a big ask Jimmy, though, but. I can started without that. Let me see what I can do. Mom, Hi, baby, I missed. You guys so much. I didn't know if I would ever see you again. Don't ever ever do that again. We won't, Buddy, I promise. Hey, there he is, Dad, Hi, Trucker, where's Jack? Jack didn't make him, Mom, He protected. Me until the end. I'm sorry, little man. I miss him. Engage. I'm so sorry we weren't there, Danielle. There's only one. Thing to do. I'll get out. I know they'd've done so many fish that shut down, Johnny, Meghan, get over here. When I close close my eye, you know that you're the only thing I see. And I don't know I was wrong let's get some food and then we can talk. I'm starved. What if I sat up? Sorry? What if I make seat? What did not make your mind get all that dead for me? Did not make your laugh, did not make you smile, did not make. You feel Cuba before? Oh? I know they have not so many things that, let you know. I don't hope that you get me one much. Ask me? Do I. Now that everyone is together, do you guys want to talk about what happened? Not? Really? It's okay, Daniel. We need to talk and share our feelings. It's a good thing. It's okay, buddy. We're all here together. Yeah, but you weren't there, then you aren't there. Grandma, Kay and Vanessa were in the kitchen kne jam jageed I, and we're in the family room with christ and the tutor. Jack started growling at the door and we heard someone on the landing. Then two men in black burst through the doors, pointing their guns at us. Grandma called Jack to her so that they wouldn't hurt him. They put us all in the family room. The guy that was supposed to be watching us was looking out the window with his partner. I saw the soldier's sidearm and told Jack to go get him. Jack did it, and I grabbed his gun, but the man at the door shot Jack. I shot the man at the door in his neck, but the man that Jack had bitten sprayed bullets from his gun across the room. Grandma was with me standing behind him as he shot them. I pulled the trigger and shot him in the back of his head. He killed my friends. You did what you had to do, buddy. Grandma was freaking out, but you guys taught me what to do. I grabbed my pack and told Grandma to get some clothes while I got food. We peeked out the window. More soldiers were in the field, so he snuck out the back and hid in the woods. They did kill them all. We were all in the field and they opened fire on I was like target practice. My dad jumped in front of me when they shot. He landed on top of me and told me I shouldn't move. I'm here, honey. He told me that we would play dead until the soldiers left. He died while we were waiting. I was at work when a client who lived down south came into town and told us about the invasion. Burgess came and got me and headed directly for the farm. It was empty. There weren't even guards at the gates. As we drove past the fields, we found Megan running toward us. She was in shock. Her father was dead. Then we went to the house and Daniel already told you about what happened there, but we couldn't find Kate or Daniel. Drove into the trails and two soldiers were out there. As they approached the vehicle, Cole shot them both. He went into the woods in a few yards and called for Kay and Daniel. Well they were there. Well, piled into the car and drove back to the trail. You didn't dare go back into town. Daniel was the one who ensured we had a tent and some clothes. That boy, you're saved my wife. Then he says, come on, Grandpa, this is how the Bores team does it. Well, what is the way we do it? Grandpa. You don't get to live too long in one place if you're not locked in. And sometimes sometimes bad people make you have to do bad things or they'll hurt the people you love. Mom told me that you can't hesitape. I'm just glad you guys are okay. I'm so sorry more of you didn't make it here. I know how much you love and that's a mom. Like a daughter. Thank god we have Megan. We'll take care of her like our oat. Mom. Come checking my Okay. They were looking for you and Eric, Evince. Our harm was one of the first targets. I don't think they were intending on shooting any of the people in the house, or they would have right away. They were looking for you and were willing to take your family as a bargaining chip. You've got to get the family out of here and. Go where Dad, There's no place we can go. They won't find us. Trust me, I've been all over this country. Did Starr tell you about the next quake that's on its way? She did. A scientist said that he predicted the first one. It's not worth taking the risk of it hitting while we're in the path of that wave. Dad, you don't want to see that wave. I made diamonds in my buck crack when we made it out of California. Trust me, it's not something you can run from. Now. Why don't we leave now, Vince, go north. We have three weeks to get ready to infiltrate Vegas and get some key Merks out, plus Erica's mom and Greg and Penny's family. Then we can discuss our next move. What why do you guys have to do this? Because Dad, we know that facility better than anyone. We live there for nine years. We have to get Nancy and we can get these key people out before the Mercenary army attacks. Otherwise they may just be executed when the first shots are fired. Just you and Erica and Dexter and Star. I can't stop you from doing what you think is correct. I don't like it. What are you going to tell Daniel the truth? His grandma is in there. Carmen and Crystal are like a brother and sister to him. He'll understand, he'll understand. But I doubt who Lee. I think you're right. I know you want to go, and I don't blame you. I'm learning my own skin in reading what you back. Then please this. General Merkley is back at the homesteads. He's thinking we're running out of time three weeks. She needs to leave, but she also needs to heal. Hmmm, we have a lot of loose ends to collect before we start moving the. Caravan we can't keep all these people at the homesteads. General Murkley plans on weeding out the fighters at that checkpoint. Then he can organize escort crews for the refugees and build our force for the Denver invasion. That's why you're going back to the homesteads as well. I was gonna go with the Vegas team. Okay, now you have alternate orders major, Yes, sir, you know how to organize roundups. These people need help. Urchase the water is coming and some won't be able to move fast enough. You're giving me. Waters to help people. I am well, it's about damn time, sir. I'm guessing you'll be headed out. Then I have a couple of my own loose ends tie up before I leave, sir. But yes, I'll be headed out. I'm right behind you. If there's nothing else, you're dismissed. Yes, sir, it's a good day to day, not tomory. There's no. Time to buy. Day. Well, something's gotten good today. That's so good. There he is. How the hell are you gunny? Very good, sir, it's nice to see you. I had heard you were headed out. Damn where it travels fast around here, But you heard correctly. I wish we had time to have it. Drink me too, But from. What I've heard, we'll be out in Colorado for a while. We'll catch up. Then sounds good. Where's Bennett's scroney ass at? They got in at oh three hundred He went to crash. Love those late night drives. Tell me about it. Speaking of I need to get moving or I will have one of those myself. In the bar. There's no. Bar. Something's got a. If you want to learn how to survive a nuclear, biological or chemical warfare attack using nothing more than what you have in your own home right now. Don't click off this ad. Hey everyone, this is Dave Jones, the NBC guy, and I prepared a special class. Contact me at nbcguide dot com to learn more, or send me an email an NBC guy at ProtonMail dot com. You ready to go, Daniel? I sure am Down this row? Are all the food tents? One of the soldiers told me that they're shipping food down from Canada. To the Merks. Take the North Park. Major Ferguson's forces did a lot of damage on the way here. They took down the federal prisons. Were you there only for a minute, and then Jefferson drove here. I overheard Vergess, Canada is back in the Merks. They would rather the Merks fight Henderson so they don't have to. What is that think it's poop's mom what They're just shooting it over the edge of the cliff over there. Oh, that is freaking nasty. Too many people gather here, too fat, that's all the soldiers said. Everyone is leaving anyway. That's the same story I'm here in. Is that the slave labor doing the laundry? No, Mom, Everyone volunteers, and most people want to pitch him so they don't feel like a burden. This is where we do laundry and get more water. That's good to know. It's pretty cool how these solar generators work. And look over here, mom, they have a soccer field. Hi, corporal, is this your other boy? Sure? Is my little man, Danielle. Not so little anymore? Mom, I'm trying eleven this year. You know how to play big man? You bet? Can we you can, buddy. But your mom has had a rough few weeks. The doctor says, I'm supposed to take it easy. Oh come on, mom, please. Really, Danny, I'm sore. All right, No, what the hell, Come on, Daniel, let's go. Hooray. Mom's playing this new day dry goodbye. And help me and. Baby out of the day. And here they are playing soccer. Yeah, come on everyone, I'm in. Are you guys coming? I'm in. Come on. One, it's a new day of the down. Get the door. Oh did you want to see me? Come in, Patrese, you asked to see me, TJ. Come in, Sit down, Thank you, TJ. Jimmy Tran is here. He is, he is. He asked take you at home with him? He did. Do you want to go? I'll do what you ask of me. DJ. I would never go against your wishes here. You're a diamond in the rough, Patrees. I wish I could find a hundred more intelligent people like yourself. I would never drink again. Thank you, sir. He says he loves you well. Do you love him? I do? Hmm. I understand your hesitation, J. But I want you to know I would never betray you. I know, but it doesn't make my decision any easier. Whatever you decide, thank you for at least considering it. I don't own you, but understand if you go, he will own you. I understand, and you still want to be with him. Yes, dij I need time to think about this. Even if the world ahead is long and. Winding, even if they've. All behind us left to come in, even if. The tears come stream and down your face. It's gonna be okay. Come on, guys, we better wrap this up. But we're having so much fun. If we don't get to the food tent soon, there'll be nothing. Laugh buddy, and I am home. Oh, come on, I know a shortcut. Hey, Danny, I told you i'd get them back, didn't I? You sure did, sir, But I'm still Matt. You didn't take you with you. Sounds like Grandma is glad I didn't take you. Yeah, I guess you're right. You know who I am. High five, buddy, you did a great job. Looks like you guys have been out working up a sweat. Yes, sir, good you'll all be ready for tomorrow. I'll see it at oh five hundreds. Right here, see you in the morning, sir and guys. It's really good to see you all back together. It's good to be back together. Good night, sir, Good night, Vins. What is he talking about? Mom? We're training to get Grandma and Greg and Penny's family out of Las Vegas, along with some other essential Mercenary soldiers. We start tomorrow. Are you in, Carmen and Crystal too, Yes, we are. Can I come, No, Danny, we need someone to stay and protect Grandma and Grandpa and Megan. Don't worry, little dude. I'll be here too. We're not leaving you. We're training right here and then we go to Vegas. We'll only be gone a day or so. Then we'll be right back with Carmen and Chris. It all goes well, What if it doesn't. Nobody has an answer for that, Danny. Anything could happen to any one of us at any time. Tomorrow is never a guarantee. That's why we have to make every moment together. Captain. We were wondering if you guys would think it here entire. Sorry, we got wrapped up in a game of soccer. What about the wound on your arm, Erica, It's fine. Let me see you guys better get up there and get your plates before they're not serving dinner anymore. I'll grab you a plate. Ba thanks, I'm over here. I will look at it. I can't believe you guys are going into Vegas and your only data rest. You're out running all over. Oh stop that she was playing with her boys. With an infect Are it feels okay? It does seem to be clearing. Up, but you'll have to wash it and those stitches can't come out for at least four days. You're going to have to take it easy during training. I will there you go. Thanks, We'll see you both back at the ten. Sound good bye? Dad? Still sat, Susan? Are you here? Yes? TJ, I'm in here. What are you doing missing Teresa? You can't just sit here. This isn't healthy. What am I supposed to do? TJ? She was my everything? Are you going to sell me if you keep up. This depressing bull crap attitude? Yes, I'm sorry, I'm just. Stop stop talking. Do you want your old job back? Yeah? It would keep me so busy. I wouldn't have time to think. But what about the trees? She's always been loyal to you. That's why she's being rewarded. She's going to live with tram Jimmy Tramp out West. Yes, he wants her. What about Margaret and the baby? That's a good question. Put her to work for me. I'll make sure she and the baby are cared for. I consider that option. You want to stay here. I love this house, TJ, but everything here reminds me of her. Do you want your old homeback? I'll take whatever you have available and make it my own. A tiny home for me, Margaret and a baby. I want you inside the supply center so she is guarded. That's fine. Pack your stuff. I'll make it happen. Thank you, TJ. When you find that open door, gotta let them love you. Tender hearts will always fights. The darkness, the lie, the darkness. So the lie. The darkness Sun, it's a lie. The daughters delay. Hey, fellow patriots, bravo eco here. Are you paying attention to what is happening in our great nation? Are you prepared? If not, come see us at Hope for Survival dot Com. That's Hope for Survival dot com. And be safe and be blessed. Excellent you guys, meet it on time. Yes, Sir Erica Moore, my husband Vince, and my daughter Star Sir. First Private More is reporting as ordered, Sir. Fall In Soldier. Yes, Sir Master Gunnery Surgeon Ben Nickleton, Thank you three for coming. I understand you have experience with the Las Vegas facility. You will work very hard during the next three weeks to ensure you're one hundred percent ready to get through the facility safely. Thank you, sir for helping us achieve that goal. I thought you said she was a handful, Bennett. We're all here to work, sir. Then fall in people, Yes, sir, this is the insertion team. Staff Sergeant Sebastian White. He is a specialist in covert operations and first team Sergeant Bennett will lead the team. Let's get those heart rates pumping. The course I have designed for you will require you to work together. Lieutenant Colonel Vergis suggested you might be lacking in that area. This is more. I understand you have stitches in your arm that won't come out for the next few days. Take it easy on your upper body and stay out of the dirt. Yes, sir. Each piece of the course requires at least four people to complete. Erica and Dexter your team with Bennett and Smith Vincent starting, you're with Jensen and White. We're finn to friend time. Here were the drem reed. As what we've got is timeless. We superseding we. Hold and the key and a timelin its cann be. I can just walking to. The god of mass some money they'll never get out. You'll need in the season the downs. But we're going away to the end of the nut ship. We on the gay. Can we ride all the place till the MORNA baby, because it's time a. Mine, Noddy, go hold the stuff. Please call the brule slip the night, baby, because they're doing to mine, gonna left the world. No, look at these times, I think I just threw up in my mouth a little. You guys think you can pull off a covert operation scoring like this. Let's get some chat. But tomorrow we're double time in it. Yes, sir, I want to double my score if I had use my throwing knives instead of a pistol. Really you're getting that good? Oh yeah, Dex, we're right on that target. When we rescued your parents, I still hit him, didn't I, sir, Yeah, in the forehead with the back of your knife. Then it landed in his foot, Sir, what happened? We're stinking in the back. I took out one guarden, Dex was supposed to take the other. He throws the knife like a moron. It bounced off the guy's head and landed in his foot. Oh no way, that's a classic. I'd like to see you do it. No problem. Stand in front of the wall, decks. What what, sir, stand in front of the wall. Yes, sir, for sergeant, don't relax, cupcake, you missed. You hit me, Sir, I didn't miss that's a reminder not to challenge your spirit officer again. Yes, sir, go find a doctor. Yes, sir, was that necessary? He gets sloppy with protocol? He just needed a reminder. Whatever, don't make me have to remind you. Oh really, I'll kick your ass, sir. Helt me down. H J. Mister fans you to see you send him in. I'll be out in a minute. Jimmy, what brings you by? I'm leaving tomorrow, TJ. I need an answer. I will not let her go to just anyone, Jimmy, I. Know, TJ. I'll make it up to you. Hell, make the price. You're back, but partner's TJ. I want to own you. It's the only way I can justify letting her go. If I own you, she's still under my roof. You make the choice. I have always been lawyer to you, you will never do otherwise, So I choose Patress. Wise choice, jimmy wise choice. You too have been working so hard. I'll take care of Daniel tonight, you too, go get some alone time. I guess we can go over to Dolores's place, to the strip club. It's not just a strip club. They have food and a bar without naked people. It's a popular hangout spot. Mom. Okay, but be careful, you just got those stitches out, Erica. We will, thanks, kay. I'm not proud, aware, I'm ashamed of certain things I've done. Scratches a kind of please. Every time, my cow blest to account. You going to the bar alone. Here comes a waitress with the drinks. Maybe we should have them tested real. Two whiskeys on the house, compliments of Dolores. Thanks, are you too? Okay? Yeah, thank you. Lightning never strikes the same place twice, right, actually it does. My little superstar is so quiet these days. My freaking jerk really hurt her. We've been so busy. I haven't had time to talk to her. Erica, bitch. How good it is to see you two again. Hello, Dolores, how have you been busy? Busy? Just like always. Thanks so much for helping us. I wish it could have been more. Things may have been if I had talked to Cole earlier. Things worked out just as God intended. He gives his to mist any of us can ask for. Isn't that the truth? You too, enjoy your evening. Thanks again, Dolores. What are you laughing about? I'm just thinking about Dexter Bennett. Those do you go round and round with each other, don't they. I'm so proud of Dexter though. He's such a good man. Yeah, I don't know how that happened. I think it's because of his incredible father. Oh don't look now, but Bennett, Nickelton and White just walked in. Luc who's here? What are you two doing out of the residential center. We're looking for a quiet night together. Oh nonsense, Let's get some extra chairs over here. Hey guys, Hi, Rn, Hi, Sebastian. Good evening, Eric, Vince, How are you too? Doing? Not too bad? So? How are you and Ben acquainted? Inn and I were in basic together in the Marines and did a tour in wreck together the bum jumped ship. When we got home joined the private sector. I told you from the start. I wasn't a lifer. Mister Marines for Life got all bent when I left. But the money was good in the private sector and I could go further faster. Who wants to go further and faster? Don't you know? Slow and steady wins the race. Oh really? Who is the girl you cheated on your wife? With guests going further faster and interested you more than. Oh man, that's hitting blow the belt. I'll tell you what though. Check out that long legged beauty that just walked in. When to go further and faster with her? Why don't you buy her a drink? Yeah, Bennett, don't be a chicken. The woman won't give him the time of day. I'll put money on that. If he doesn't go for it, I am. Okay, here I go. Where are you from? Ben? I was born in Nebraska, but grew up in Canada. With a machete in one hand and a fishing pole in the other. I grew up Michigan fishing and bow hunting. I thought you were from California. They call you the lone survivor of Sacramento. That's right. I lived in California during the Great Quake, but was born and raised in Michigan. I should have known by your accent. It's always worse when I drink. You know, Erica, I have to hand it to you. What did I do now? For years I tried to get Patrick to retire from the Marines and join the private sector working in homeland security. We saw how things were going even before the Great Quake. The government feared the people and set up a war against them. I tried to tell Patrick, but he wouldn't listen. He said he had already given up three wives for the corps and wasn't a boat to divorce it. He can be a stubborn bastard. Sometimes. I notice it. Takes a strong individual to get anything through that thick head of his. People like you were born to be leaders of leaders. I've come to realize that staying true to your back and loyal to the people you love can make you into a legend. My purpose now in this time is to spread hope as far and wide as I can. We must fight the hatred and the fear that is crippling the spirit of our country. I'm not a leader, Ben, My life taught me how precious the freedom you fought for, and what we took for granted. Was I pray that it's not too late. The Great Quake brought unprecedented misery, and it's been a long road to recovery. But we can't turn our backs on everything that made our country great in the name of security and survival. The survival enough now. I don't think so. That's why I'm here training you to go kick some ass. You keep doing what you're doing, Erica. If you can change Bennett, you can change the world. Thanks, Ben, Are you ready to go? I'm sure we can find another quiet spot on our way home. Sorry, boys, my hobby is calling in tonight. You're not mad they pulled you off the Vegas takeover. Honestly, it was so refreshing to hear him say I need you to rescue those people. I didn't care what he said next. Isn't that the truth? We can do this. We'll make the United States a place of liberty once again. The West was about the ball, but the Feds pulled a lot of forces into the Central region. They must know the next disasters en route. I'm sure they do. We're gonna surround them and squeeze them until they submit. And finally we'll be able to rest my brother. There she is, Go get her. I'll set up camp. Really, thanks, it's. All you're going to owe me one. But yeah, I got you. I guess that this is what they called you've been jutting me, Chris, I've been away. Pray that you know. You're all ever were their baby face. It was getting late. I was worried you weren't going to come tonight. Nothing would have kept me away. Oh I want to say, you already said it. Nothing more needs to be said. We all make mistakes, Cassidy. I've always understood your reasoning. I love you cool. I've loved you since you first sat down at the table with me. I loved you since the moment you said my name is miss Cassidy Baker. My position is the only thing that's ever kept me away. None of that matters now. With the militia, the Mercenary Forces united, the Central Asian will fall and we can. Finally play together. Don't care? Where long is that? Have you. Driving me crazy? So? No? What the hell was that? That was? Albuquerque? Look more planes, sir, I saw it. Nope? Are you getting eli on the radio? I have to go find out if everyone. Is okay, and I'll need to get back to Reno to report this. Paul, I want you to return to the homesteads to help organize the rescue teams. You well, isn't that one hell of buzzkill? I guess I'll see you in a few days, I. Guess, So take care of yourself until then. I always do. Hi. This is Sarah F. Popway, the creator of the Changing Earth series and the voice of Eric Moore. Visit Changing Ourth Series dot com to explore the novels behind the drama and the survival knowledge behind the stories. Join the Changing Earth Membership program and get one week early access to the show. We appreciate you helping the Changing Earth world go round. Visit us at www dot Changing Earth Series dot com. That's www dot Changing Herth Series dot com. These place is crawling. With merks, but they're mobilizing to move out. Why there's a fear in their eyes. DJ. I've heard that they think the next tenses there is a road. Interesting. There's something else you should know what. Erica is not dead. How do you know? I've seen her myself. She was in the bar with her husband. Can you get her? The card is heavy around her and her family. There's no way I can take her with the skeleton crew we probed. It's no longer my concern anyway. Henderson sent us there for the whore. Bring her home, yes, DJ. But I. Saw you out in the gym training, good boy, seeing Sean. I just got word from Yuri. What do you say she's still alive, mister Lee, She wasn't in Albuquerque. Commander Gray came by. They got a hit on Cassidy Baker where she's headed back to Colorado. She survived Albuquerque as well. Denver. No, she stays at these homesteads outside Denver. I guess it's a way station for refugees headed north. Do you think Eric is trained to take No. I've studied this woman. She's more passionate than that. She's loyal to a fault. She'll go after her California friends in Las Vegas. You knew that's where she was going all along. Why didn't you kill the Supreme General? He didn't ask, GJ. The truth is, mister Lee, the Supreme General is done trying to capture her. He wants her dead. The Spreme General is going to wait until they attack. Then he'll put the planes in the air. Slaughtering people from Afar as not my thing. I like to be up close and personal so I can bring them home and play with them. You are my son, no doubt about that. Anyway. I'm looking forward to some time off. We'll have plenty of news stuck to work with as soon as Urian surgery return. I don't want to hurt you, ma'am. Stop. Okay, that's enough, guys. Very nice job, Erica Dexter, you're in next. Come over here, Cupcake. Let's do some timing drills. Yes, sir, good, just like that, and douck good. What would your footwork and attack. Be like if your target moved forward like this? Well, depending on what type of mood I was in, I could either step right and sidekick, or move past my opponent and BACKCCK. Okay, let's try that, Cupcake. Boom. Now you're in the not the freak out mood. Such a day. First, Sergeant Bennick, can you please join us the rest of you as you were? Yes, ma'am. Continue, guys, what's up for that cole left for Colorado? Looks like they look worried. Our time is up. You all know your jobs. You will report five hundred. Head out toward Vegas, head home and do what you gotta do. Yes, sir, Come on, let's tell Daniel. I'm my folks. Hold on a second. I'll be right there. You got a minute. Sure, what's up? How come they moved up the timeline? Shut the door. The federal forces decimated Albuquerque. There's radio silence from Cassidy's forces right now. The ground troops were advancing. We must finish eradicating them from the badlands, so we only have one front. The planes are still at base in Vegas. We'll have a chance to take them. All we have to do is secure people and those gardens. Oh shoot, I hope they're okay. Are you ready to move on Vegas? You know I am, sir. That's our mission. Then we can worry about the next objective. Yes, sir, Thanks sir. Go spend time with your boy. Well, sir, good night time? Boy? Is a ring? Is this the beginning? Thank you for listening to the Changing Earth audio drama based on the Changing Earth novel series by Sarah F. Hathaway. Grab your copy on Amazon or get signed editions at Changing Earth series dot com. This content is copyrighted. For details on performers, sound effects, and music credits. Visit Changing Earth series dot com, where you can subscribe to support the series and keep the adventure alive. Check out the Changing earthstore for exclusive gear. Love the show like, subscribe and drop a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Rumble, or your favorite platform. Stay prepared and stay tuned for the next episode of the Changing Earth audio drama