Author's Notes: Now we're to the point of combining a number of chapters, since events have become rapidly AU, and will continue to do so. Bear with me. Cookie points to the reader who figures out what book I have been reading with my little one this winter.
Disclaimer: Sadly, I still do not own any of the characters that appeared on the CBS show Jericho. No copy write infringement intended.
Chapter XVII: "Christmas is Coming…"
November 24 –December 24 (Thanksgiving - Christmas)
Bombs + 9-13 weeks
The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas passed quickly for the residents of Jericho. Grey Anderson had agitated and fomented until Johnston had finally arranged for a mayoral election. Johnston won by a landslide and Grey slunk back to his home in The Pines until his next bright idea presented itself.
April had gone in to see nurse midwife Kim Jackson for a routine prenatal appointment and Kim had recommended an ultrasound due to history of high risk pregnancies. April's ultrasound had showed a placenta previa. Under ordinary circumstances, such a finding would be of no concern in early pregnancy and simply be rechecked. In the present world, Kim recommended light duty for April: Office hours 3 days per week, no emergency or night duty. The other medicos in town – Ross Hoder and Harry Peterson, nurse practitioners Laura Norton and Lizzy Sommers, and medical student Christy Peterson rallied to cover her shifts. Kim Jackson took call for OB emergencies, Eleanor Green for psych emergencies and Kenchy Duwalia for surgical emergencies. It was a far cry from the back-up panels of big city hospitals, but not bad for a cobbled-together clinic in a post-apocalyptic world.
Dr. Duwalia had been talking with Eleanor at intervals since he had arrived from Rogue River. His symptoms of PTSD were coming under control and his alcohol consumption drastically diminished. He was functioning as a surgeon in the hospital and a member of the community. He was still living at the shelter, which was actually turning into the happening place to be in the evenings. Kenchy had befriended a visiting nurse from the clinic who had arrived shortly before the bombs. Fortunately for him, she was a sassy redhead and livened up the games of checkers and monopoly played some evenings at the shelter. Other evenings, Scott Rennie would read aloud a book from the school library. It was funny how much more interesting one found a book when read from an adult perspective than when one was assigned to read a book as an adolescent. They were currently working their way through the works of Jack London.
Elsewhere in Jericho, things had been progressing normally. Friday evening get-togethers had continued at the McCall's. Family dinners on Sunday after church had continued at the home of Gail and Johnston Green, and the Hawkins family had joined them one week. Samuel had enjoyed entertaining Brody and Chip with their trucks while Darcy joined Gail in enjoying the babies. The men discussed the state of affairs in Jericho. Allison had enjoyed speaking with the men about the Ranger Cadet program and speaking with April and Heather about girl things; she was not as interested in babies as yet. Her parents were happy to see her interacting pleasantly and less sullen than she had been when they had first arrived in Jericho.
Bonnie Richmond had carved out her own niche in the Ranger Cadet program. She found she more enjoyed seeing to the twisted ankles and abrasions than taking part in drill and ceremony. Years of caring for animals on the farm had given her both compassion and a no-nonsense attitude that made her perfect for the position. She spoke with Lizzy Summers about participating in the spring EMT class even though she would not yet have reached the 18 year cutoff. Lizzy quickly agreed to make the exception. Upon further consideration, Lizzy realized that university nursing programs as they had been known were, for now, a thing of the past. She made a mental note to speak with the other nurses the next time they met about instituting an on-the-job nurse training program.
Dale Turner was still working part time for Gracie Leigh, but her business was slower now that the townspeople were relying more on stored food for their meals. He was doing such a good job in the position of First Sergeant in the Ranger Cadet program, and still had time on his hands, that Jake had him keeping inventory of the goods that were coming in by way of Jonah's supply runs and stored in various warehouses about town. Between the supplies Jonah was bringing in and those from the food drop, the town was in good shape. The decision was made to use some of the food from the food drop to make care packages for refugees that did not stay in Jericho. Some did not care to participate in the mandatory volunteer hours; some were on their way to family further south. Since many of the items from the food drop were dehydrated, they were lighter for the travelers to carry.
Annie McCall had been willing to move back to the ranch house when she learned that the Duncan family could make better use of the cottage. Dennis and his children had moved to the cottage immediately, and he had proposed to Mary Bailey shortly thereafter. A small spring wedding was planned. In the meantime, Dennis and Mary had taken up the ancestral business of Mary's family, making alcohol in the basement of Bailey's Tavern. So far, they had made bourbon using Stanley's corn; some to use now and some to age in wooden barrels for a better taste in a few years. They were fermenting potatoes for vodka and apples from the Surry Apple Farm for apple jack along with honey from E.J.'s bees to make mead wine. Some of the alcohol they made went to the Medical Center for purposes of disinfecting tools and instruments. The rest was used, in moderation, for the refreshment of the townspeople.
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Roger Hammond, Emily's fiancé, had surprised the whole town by arriving on foot at the end of November with 53 refugees who had been walking for weeks. They arrived at the Oak Street Ranger checkpoint by the salt mine when Charlie Squadron was on duty. Johnston received the call from Will McCall, Charlie Squadron leader, about seven o'clock in the evening, and responded as quickly as he could. He made a few calls via radio, alerting the shelter to ready sufficient towels and bedding, advising the medical center to dispatch as many staff members to the shelter as possible, and to Scout Ranch to have wagons brought to provide transportation to the shelter. He advised the shelter to recall the lunch ladies to prepare chicken broth and dry toast for the refugees to ease their digestive systems back toward a healthy diet again.
Once refugees arrived at the shelter, they were shown to the showers, fitted with fresh clothing from the donation closet, and assisted in filling out the newly-developed refugee registration form. It was a cross between job application and medical history form.
The medical staff did a rapid triage, locating a man with gangrenous feet related to his poorly controlled diabetes, a woman with liver cancer and not long to live, two cases of pneumonia and several cases of severe dehydration. These were transported to the Medical Center via wagon for immediate admission. Of lower priority were widespread malnutrition, various skin infections that could be treated with oral antibiotics and good hygiene, dehydration that could be treated with oral fluids, and respiratory infections of probable viral origin. They were given medication as appropriate and referred for follow-up as indicated. Several patients with undermedicated mental illness were identified and referred to see Eleanor Green at the earliest appointment.
Vocation-wise, a medical student named Jessica Williams came forward to help with medical assessments and to point the team in the direction of those she had been watching most closely. She would transition nicely to a Medical Center staff role. A man with many years' experience as a butcher would be dispatched to the hog farm with his wife and two sons who had been apprenticing with him as butchers; Hugh and Marla Matthews would be ecstatic. Several men with machinist experience would be sent to work with Jonah Prouse. One older man, also a veteran, had experience with small motors; Johnston planned to pair him up with Oliver Wilson to try and bring additional older equipment back online following the EMP. Various others had farm labor experience and would be distributed to the farms and ranches once things were sorted out.
The following day was a Sunday, and the Green family was gathered for their traditional dinner when they heard a pounding on the front door. Apparently Grey Anderson had gotten wind of the arrival of the refugees and had come to voice his disapproval. He pushed past Johnston, who opened the door, and made his way to the dining room where he had a full audience.
"I have heard that you allowed more than 50 strangers into town last night and made them comfortable," Grey loudly accused Johnston.
"Well, you heard right," Johnston responded agreeably. Having won the election, he now had more patience for Grey's shenanigans and childish behavior.
"What do we know about these people?" Grey demanded. "How do we know they aren't here to harm us?"
"Well, let's see," Johnston started reasonably, "Do you think the elderly gentleman with gangrenous feet who died at our Medical Center before he could be stabilized for surgery is going to harm you? How about the lady who is dying of cancer? It might be that we were able to give the dying gentleman one last night of comfort and the lady perhaps a week. As for the rest of them, I think the medical student will do more help than harm. As will the butchers and the machinists and the mechanic. Does that help you feel safer Grey?"
"What are we going to do with all of these people," Grey spluttered. In the background, April was a little concerned that the man would have a stroke, he was so agitated.
"Well," Johnston continued in a calm voice one might use with children and mental patients, "a handful of refugees will be continuing their travels so that they can be with their families further south. They will be encouraged to remain in Jericho for a week and re-coup, eating hot meals and resting up before they start walking again and will be provided with food and warm coats for the remainder of their trip. Roger Hammond and Emily have invited a few refugees to live with them for the foreseeable future. He knows that all of the members of the group will need to assimilate into the community and wanted to do his part. I don't suppose you would like to take a few into the large home in which you live alone, Grey?"
Grey spluttered.
"No, I didn't think so. And I wouldn't want to interfere with your third amendment rights to deny quarter to troops. These fine folks have agreed to join the Jericho Rangers and protect our town, which is more than you have done. Now, if you'll excuse me, we are trying to enjoy a family meal."
Johnston ushered Grey back to the front door and firmly closed it behind him. He returned to the dining room to the sound of his family clapping and cheering.
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On Monday morning, Johnston met with Roger Hammond about the things he had seen on his travels. Johnston was frustrated that he still lacked a clear idea of what was going on in the country. They had received conflicting reports from various HAM contacts internationally. One said that Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security Charles Walsh, being the most senior cabinet member to survive the bombs, had become president and was functioning out of Columbus, Ohio. Another report said former Texas Governor Todd had opened up shop as President in San Antonio after the bombs. Yet a third report said that former Senator Tomarchio was functioning as President in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
"There is a place called Black Jack, about 200 miles north of here in Nebraska," Roger told him thoughtfully. "It used to be a fairground; it has become a trading post of sorts. Goods, services, information. Looked pretty rough. We went around rather than stopping in, since we didn't have anything to trade. You might find out some information there. Be careful of the guards, I heard. Human trafficking is their bread and butter."
Johnston sat horrified at this information for several minutes. "I think we have to go," he finally said. "We need more information. Maybe we can look for some machine parts while we're there," he added, thinking Jonah Prouse would be a good man to have his back in a place like that.
"Take salt," Roger had added, almost as an afterthought. That was the one thing Jericho had and everyone else seemed to need.
By the time the expedition was finally organized, the group consisted of Johnston, Jonah, Mike Sommers and Oliver Wilson. Oliver thought finding more small motor parts would be a good idea, even though it looked as though he had plenty to choose from in his workshop. Johnston was primarily happy to see him willing to leave not only his home but the town.
They left at dawn on Thursday morning and arrived at the Black Jack Fairground just after 10 am. They drove one of the king cab pick-up trucks Jonah used to make supply runs, and brought 10 25-pound bags of salt with them, just to be on the safe side. Oliver and Mike went in search of parts while Johnston and Jonah sought out information, agreeing to meet back up at the truck at noon.
"Looks like Roger was right," Johnston nodded to the large hand-written message board which listed items that were in demand. "Diesel, salt, iodine, morphine, antibiotics and Sulphur."
"Take a look at that," Jonah commented, as he walked further around the message board and noted regional, national and world news, in turn. They both stopped in their tracks when they reached the part of the board that listed six ostensible presidents in six regions of the country.
"Well, I guess we were closer to the truth than we thought," Johnston commented in disbelief. "So much for the United States." They each took out pens and paper to take notes of what they had learned.
Moments later, a disheveled woman approached Johnston.
"Mayor Green? It's me, Amy Hamilton. Do you remember me? I used to teach first grade at the Jericho elementary," The woman finally stopped speaking as the dawn of recognition reached Johnston's face.
"I'm sorry," Johnston stammered, "You've changed. I didn't recognize you," Johnston apologized. This emaciated, filthy, woman in no way resembled the neat and complete first grade teacher he remembered.
Amy hung her head. "I guess going back to New Bern wasn't the best idea I ever had, but I had to try and see my mother and grandmother. Phil Constantino was pleased I went back. He has been trying to get information about Jericho from me ever since Ravenwood came through New Bern and stole everything they could get."
At this point three men approached Amy. Johnston immediately put her behind him while he and Jonah took a defensive pose.
"No!" Amy cried, "These are my friends. Look, can we go somewhere and talk? You should know what Constantino is planning."
Johnston and Jonah backed down. Introductions were made, and the group made their way back to the truck to talk. Johnston got out the lunch Gail had packed for the trip and offered it to the folks from New Bern. They accepted and ate as if they hadn't seen real food in weeks.
Once the food had been eaten, Amy and her friends explained how ill-prepared New Bern had been for the bombs, and how the Ravenwood force had come through and looted what little they did have. Dozens had lost their lives in the feeble defense they had managed to mount. Constantino had heard a casual comment made by one of the mercenaries that Jericho, only half the size of New Bern, had successfully turned away the raiders. He was infuriated and began plotting revenge, feeling that Jericho was responsible for the poor fortune of New Bern.
Constantino had taken Amy and her mother into custody almost 4 weeks ago, treating them poorly and demanding information about Jericho that would benefit him. During this time, Constantino himself had become more volatile, withholding food rations from the pair if they didn't provide him with information. Amy conjectured that he had run out of whatever psych medication he had been taking. In the meantime, Amy's mother was a diabetic and unable to control her blood sugar under such circumstances. She died two weeks in to her incarceration. Amy's grandmother, also a diabetic, had died shortly after the bombs had gone off. Amy, now alone, refused to give any more information now that Constantino had no more leverage to hold against her.
Amy thought Constantino would kill her, but he was desperate for information first. She told him of an antique ring belonging to her grandmother that had been stolen by Ravenwood. They had heard that many such items were turned over at Black Jack, and Amy had begged to be taken there to look for it, promising to give him all of the information upon her return. It took weeks of negotiation, but finally Constantino felt he had no other choice. Amy had learned that the town factory was being re-tooled to make mortars, and Constantino needed specific information for targets in Jericho. This made Amy sick, and she knew the only way to keep the information away from Constantino was for her to escape New Bern. At least he wouldn't be able to torture her for further information. She was aware of the human trafficking that went on at Black Jack, but she still felt that was a better future than remaining in New Bern, and she wasn't about to give information that would harm her friends in Jericho.
Johnston comforted her as best he could, while exchanging looks of disbelief and disgust with Jonah over the top of her head.
"It's OK, Amy." Johnston said, patting her head somewhat awkwardly as she cried against his chest. "You'll come back to Jericho with us, of course." He pulled a cloth handkerchief out of his pocket and handed it to her
"First, let's go over what information Constantino has, and how far into the mortar business we think he is?" Johnston asked the group.
"I only ever told him basic information," Amy insisted defensively. "Things he would already know from walking down Main Street."
"OK, that's good," Johnston reassured her. He looked to the others for further information.
"I don't think they've gotten very far yet in re-tooling the factory," Russell spoke up.
"Why isn't the factory being used to make windmills?" Johnston asked in bewilderment. "New Bern has the perfect post-apocalyptic business and they decide to make mortars instead?"
Russell shrugged. "We ran out of raw materials, and have nothing to trade for more. Constantino's idea is to attack Jericho and steal food from the farms."
"Well, that's just ridiculous," Johnston fumed. "We are not enemies here. Ravenwood is the enemy. Whoever sent those bombs is the enemy. We need to ban together to protect each other and get our country back on track, not fight amongst ourselves."
"You've been here to Black Jack before?" Johnston asked the men.
Russell nodded.
"What can you get with a 25-pound bag of salt?" He asked.
Russell's eyes opened wide. "Quite a bit," he answered. "Now that there's no refrigeration, salt is needed for preservation, in addition to all the people cooking from scratch and using more. Did you know salt used to be used as a form of currency?"
"You don't say," Johnston deadpanned.
At that point, Johnston noticed Oliver Wilson and Mike Sommers approaching from the far side of the parking lot. He walked out to meet them.
"We bartered a load of machining and motor parts for one bag of salt," Oliver reported.
"Great," Johnston responded dryly. "That leaves us nine bags to prevent Jericho from going to war with our nearest neighbor."
Oliver Wilson and Mike Sommers gave Johnston blank looks.
"I'll explain on the trip home. Just play along with whatever I say," Johnston advised them as they arrived back at the truck.
With a bit of negotiating, they arranged for the exchange of salt and the parts Oliver and Mike had agreed to, and transferred the remaining nine bags of salt to the truck of the New Bern men, who would continue 'shopping' while the folks from Jericho headed home with Amy safely in their care. Johnston recommended they start with a load of potatoes from a farmer he had seen earlier, looking to feed as many people as possible on a budget. He also advised they go to the neighboring town of Cedar Brook and get as much wheat as possible.
"If those people from the Little House on the Prairie books could live on wheat for the whole Long Winter, the people of New Bern can manage for a few weeks," Johnston editorialized. "Tell Constantino we'll be over next week with some things to make life easier for you. Is the Home Depot on Jefferson Avenue still intact?" He asked.
The men nodded.
"Good. Have your people start making chicken coops and rabbit hutches. It's gotten awfully cold the past week, so make them sturdy, with plenty of insulation. We'll give you further instructions when we see you in a week. And, for heaven's sake, put the kibosh on the mortar-making endeavors."
"I don't know how we would repay you," Russell said with concern.
"Don't worry about that just now," Johnston reassured him. "We need to concentrate on sticking together and getting New Bern strong for whatever is coming next. It will all even out in the end, I'm sure. Let me know if you have too much trouble with Constantino. I don't suppose anyone has a HAM radio in New Bern?"
"My uncle does," Ted Lewis answered.
"Great!" Johnston responded. "We'll keep in touch that way and let you know when we're coming."
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By Monday, Johnston had rallied Jericho and put together an impressive lineup to travel to New Bern and help them get back on their feet again. Each of the farmers, having bred as many critters as possible immediately following the bombs per instruction of the Planning Ahead Committee, were able to send numerous chickens ~ both meat birds ready to be butchered and laying hens that would begin producing within 12 weeks mixed with those already laying. Alex Sommers, who had been raising meat rabbits in his spare time, was able to send copious sets of two does and an unrelated buck to start many individual hutches. Rabbits, being very low in fat, were not ideal in a survival situation, but surely better than nothing. The Matthews were able to donate a dozen hogs that were ready to slaughter in the hopes of getting a windmill from New Bern at some future point. They had moved to Jericho after the windmill deal with New Bern and had missed out.
When the convoy arrived in New Bern mid-morning on Monday, the trucks bearing animals for slaughter went straight to the butcher, who had been notified ahead of time via HAM radio. The living animals were taken to the high school football field where individuals had been lined up for hours on a first-come, first-served basis. Some received chickens and others rabbits, with the hope that they would cooperate in the future and share the harvest. Some of the farmers had sent dozens of extra eggs along to be eaten immediately, so these were also distributed.
Once the livestock issues were dealt with, the remaining people assembled in the high school gym for a presentation by the group from Jericho. Phil Constantino was present, but somewhat wild-eyed in appearance, unshaven and long-haired. Russell, who was not big on public speaking, gave Johnston a brief introduction and then left the stage. It occurred to Johnston that a lack of leadership was the biggest problem facing New Bern at the moment.
"Thank you for inviting us here today," Johnston began, overlooking the fact that Phil Constantino had recently wanted to start a battle with Jericho. "We ran into some of your fellow townspeople at the Black Jack Trading Post last week and heard you were having trouble. You are our friends and nearest neighbors, and we want to help in any way we are able. As many of you know, we have brought some animals to be butchered, as well as chickens and rabbits for later use. Some of our townspeople have come along to help you get started with skills that might come in handy. I'm going to let Heather start with an overview."
Before Johnston could step away from the podium, a man from the audience stood up and shouted "Why are you doing this? What do you want in return?"
Johnston turned back to the podium. "Mostly, we are doing this because it is the right thing to do. As I said, you are our neighbors and our friends. We are in a position to help, so we will. Down the road, it stands us in good stead to have neighbors who are strong and self-sufficient. We all know what Ravenwood and their kind can do. None of us want that to happen again. On a larger scale, none of us are sure who is responsible for the bombs. We may need to cooperate in the future against some larger enemy. We need to be friends, not enemies. We are able to help you this time. You may be able to help us next time. We are a farming community; you are a manufacturing community. We should work together. Are there any other questions?"
Another man stood up who Johnston recognized: "Yes, Larry?"
"I just want to let you know that not all of us are suspicious and cynical," Larry said, glaring at the man who had just finished speaking. "Most of us in New Bern remember that the folks of Jericho are our friends and appreciate what you are doing to help up. We would do the same for you, and will repay you however we can in the future."
"Thank you, Larry," Johnston said sincerely. A scattering of applause broke out in the auditorium, and Johnston yielded the podium to Heather.
Heather gave a talk similar to the one she had given to the people of Jericho so many years earlier, outlining the basics of water, food, heat, shelter, medical, communication and security as they applied to New Bern. She then went over the success Jericho had had with having a shelter at the school for single people and those who didn't have fireplaces to keep them warm during the winter. Heather called for volunteers and was pleased when one of the teachers raised her hand. They would work together to get the shelter started.
Once that was concluded, the gathering broke into groups based upon interest and aptitude.
Jake and Hawkins remained with a large group in the gym to discuss a security force. It was clear that more work would be required before the folks of New Bern would be able to provide for their own security needs. A few veterans did step forward to help coordinate the process.
Joanna McCall took a group to the high school kitchen to discuss preserving food. They didn't have any surplus food to can or dehydrate at the moment, but they might in the future, and they wouldn't want it to go to waste. She also handed out sourdough starters and discussed their use as leavening in the absence of yeast.
Hope led a group down the street to the Home Depot where they discussed plans for a community greenhouse to be built on bare ground behind the school. They walked up and down the aisles, pulling out 2"x4" lumber, screws and Simpson Strong-Ties of various sizes. Hope decided upon 6 mil plastic sheeting for the cover when they were unable to find the Agribon fabric she was accustomed to using as row covers and they didn't have the time to create a hard-cover greenhouse like hers.
"Should we bring some of these bags of dirt?" One of the men asked helpfully. Fortunately, he had come along to provide muscle and construction assistance rather than gardening services; he clearly lacked aptitude.
Hope tried to disguise her perturbed expression. "We do not use dirt for gardening," she explained instructively. "We use soil. Dirt is dead. Soil is teaming with life at the microbial level; beneficial bacteria and fungi that promote the growth of our plants. If we had more time, we would make our own soil, with the help of kitchen waste, time, and a few earthworms. To answer your question, yes, please, bring all of those bags of soil. You will build raised beds and I will return in a few weeks with seedlings to be planted in the greenhouse."
Eleanor and Johnston sought out Phil Constantino where she gave him a thermos of the special tea she and the ladies of the Jericho herbal group had concocted. It was composed of St. John's Wart, Cowslip, Turmeric, and several other herbs. It had a mildly addictive property to insure he would keep coming back for more, but was self-limiting, so he could not possibly harm himself by taking too much; he would simply go to sleep first. They had had good results with it in the population of mental health patients in Jericho.
Once Constantino had consumed a solid cup of the tea, Johnston opened a dialog about the leadership of New Bern. "Looks like you have your hands full here, Phil. What happened to Mayor Roark?"
Constantino snorted mirthlessly. "He left town at the first opportunity. Went south with all of the other 'town leaders'. So much for their oaths of office. I was the only formal member of leadership left in town within a few weeks of the bombs. Everything was going wrong. The food was running out, and they all turned to me. You can't imagine"
"It must have been tough," Johnston attempted to sound sympathetic. "Maybe we can help you out there. You know, send someone to help you with all of the responsibilities."
Constantino pondered as he drank a bit more tea. Someone else to share the burden sounded like a good idea. He nodded. Someone to share the blame when things went pear-shaped.
"Yes," Constantino finally said, "I think that would be good. They would work under my supervision, of course."
Johnston was reminded of the child's Christmas character The Grinch that Stole Christmas. "Of course," Johnston replied, realizing that the man was more delusional than they had imagined. Now he just had to find a volunteer. They stood, the meeting concluded. But Johnston had just one more thing to say to Phil Constantino. He stood toe-to-toe with the man and spoke slowly and with authority: "But if you ever threaten my people again or harm them like you did to Amy Hamilton and her mother, I will personally come over here and hunt you down. Are we crystal clear on that, Phil?"
Constantino's eyes were as big as saucers. "Yes, Sir," he submissively replied. He had been lulled into a false sense of security by all of the gifts and good will; he had never seen this coming. He sat back down abruptly, stunned, as Johnston turned curtly on his heels and left the room, Eleanor in his wake.
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Johnston was quiet on the trip home, trying to think of who he could send to New Bern. Everyone he could think of had families in Jericho or ties that would not allow them to leave, even temporarily.
Grey Anderson briefly came to mind. The man had demonstrated his management skills at the mine over the years. He had no family. But Johnston couldn't be sure Grey wouldn't collaborate with Constantino and be leading the battle against Jericho once his back was turned. No, Grey Anderson could be crossed off the list.
Then Roger Hammond came to mind. He had certainly proven his leadership skills, guiding the motley group of 53 refugees cross-country to Jericho. The group was totally enamored with him. Further, Roger was grateful to Johnston for welcoming his group, so he might be more willing to accept the temporary post. And Emily would be helpful in getting the New Bern shelter started since she had spent so much time coordinating the Jericho shelter. They had been married over the weekend in an impromptu ceremony when Roger said he didn't want to wait another day to make her his bride. It would be a fresh start for both of them, Johnston convinced himself. He would make sure, of course, they wanted for nothing in terms of provisions. That problem solved, Johnston joined the conversation going on in the vehicle around him.
"So," Jake was explaining, "Russel and the guys were able to use the salt to buy enough raw materials to fabricate nine more windmills. One for the potato farmer for additional loads of potatoes, one for Cedar Brook for additional wheat, one to power the shelter and greenhouse, one for the Matthews and five to trade at Blackjack for more supplies. They had only kept two for themselves when they were making them previously and are using them to power the hospital and municipal buildings. The best part is that they are already beginning to develop relationships with other communities. I think they are finally going the right direction."
Other communities. This thought sent Johnston's mind in a different direction. How were all of the other communities out there faring? Could many of them be brought up to speed with as relatively little effort as they had expended in New Bern? He made a mental note to discuss it with the leadership of Jericho, and then with the towns with whom they had contact via HAM radio. Surely, if each of the formerly prepared towns reached out to a neighboring town, they would each become stronger in the long run. E.J.'s planning ahead had not looked this far into the future, but then he had not known the flavor of the catastrophe they might experience. Beads of mercury from the old thermometers came to mind as Johnston continued to muse. Broken into tiny pieces, they didn't look like much, but if they were joined together, they made bigger and bigger unified orbs that were difficult to break apart. Perhaps this is what the heartland communities of the splintered country needed to do in order to restore unity. Like E.J., Johnston didn't know what was coming next, but he felt the compelling need to be prepared to fight the enemy in whatever form it took.
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After a late night on Tuesday, returning from the New Bern community relief trip, it was hard for Jake to get moving on Wednesday morning. He was on duty with India Squadron and had already been gone from home all of the previous day. Heather was exhausted, so he left her sleeping and slipped out. He knew his father would be speaking with Roger, and had asked him to be present for the meeting.
Jake was surprised to find the meeting already in progress by the time he arrived, with Roger happily agreeing to take the post in New Bern right away.
"You'll want to speak with Emily about this, of course, but it will only be a temporary post," Johnston explained. "Turns out Mayor Roark's home is vacant and intact, so you can stay there while you are in New Bern. We will send you with plenty of provisions. You can send me weekly reports by way of the folks who are making trips from Jericho to New Bern to help out for now; we'll come up with something else further out. I'm hoping you will stay 3 months, but if it becomes untenable for any reason, just say the word and we will bring you home sooner. By the same token, if things seem to be working out, perhaps you would consider remaining in place longer. Emily will go along as First Lady and another set of eyes, and perhaps she would consider assisting with the shelter since she was so helpful in getting the Jericho shelter up and running."
"Emily also attended gardening classes; perhaps she could be of assistance there as well," Roger volunteered.
Jake rolled his eyes, thinking how pleased Emily would be with these new plans. Johnston just nodded, happy and relieved.
"I understand that Russell Buchannan and Ted Lewis are residents of New Bern that we can trust?" Rogen confirmed.
"Yes," Johnston agreed, "And, you will have the same type of short-wave radio used by our Rangers. You should be able to reach the Rangers at the Mott Avenue checkpoint from everywhere in New Bern. They will have a vehicle parked at the ready and be able to reach you within 30 minutes."
"Hmm," Roger considered. "One of the refugees that arrived with us used to be a Recon Marine. He grew to be a trusted friend on our travels, and filled the role of personal security on more than one occasion. I wonder if it would be appropriate if he accompany us to New Bern? He could be yet another set of eyes, and perhaps help develop the New Bern Security Force also?"
"I think that would be appropriate," Johnston nodded, liking the plan more and more. He stood and shook Roger's hand as the man exited his office.
Jake looked at him askance and shook his head. "That worked out nicely for you," Jake said as he flopped into the chair Roger had just vacated.
"It did, didn't it?" Johnston asked with an evil grin. "And what would you have had me do differently?" He asked his son.
"Nothing, I guess," Jake grumbled as he got up from the chair and headed toward the door. "I've got to get to work. I'll check in later."
It turned out that Jake was calling upon Johnston much sooner than he had expected. He had no more than gotten turnover report from Hotel Squadron when he was called to the Tacoma Bridge Ranger checkpoint. He was more than a little surprised to find an Abrams tank and 12 marines waiting for him there. He notified Johnston, who quickly joined them.
"I'm Johnston Green, Mayor of Jericho. How can I help you," he asked the Marine in front.
"Gunnery Sergeant Hill, 4th Mar Div, 4th Tank Battalion, Charlie Company. We're here to help. We were deployed to Western Kansas to set up a firm base, prep the outlying towns for the arrival of the core of Army Engineers. Now that we've won the war, it's time to start rebuilding."
The other Marines sent up a cheer of "Ooh-Rah" in the background. Johnston and Jake exchanged glances. Those Marines were supposed to be standing at attention.
"We nuked the hell out of North Korea and Iran," Sgt. Hill continued. Johnston nodded in encouragement, deciding to give him a bit more rope.
"So who's in charge of the country now," Jake interjected, baiting the man.
"The former Secretary of Homeland Security Charles Walsh is now the president," replied Sgt. Hill.
"We heard there were six guys from six different capitols claiming to be President," Jake persisted.
"The Federal Government is reunifying in Columbus, Ohio," Sgt. Hill stated flatly.
At that point, one of the men stepped forward and intervened. "Permission to stand at ease, Sir?"
"Don't you Sir me PFC, I work for a living," Sgt. Hill growled at the man. "At ease." He cast a hesitant glance at Johnston and Jake, already aware that the ruse was failing.
"May I have a word with you, Son?" Johnston asked genially, while giving Jake a signal to remain with the other Marines. Johnston and Sgt. Hill walked around the side of the guard shack, Johnston taking a moment to collect his thoughts while Sgt. Hill stewed.
"I may have been born at night, but I wasn't born last night," Johnston began in a low voice. "I was an Army Ranger long enough to know that Marines don't say 'Ooh-Rah', and they don't say anything while they are standing at attention. Neither would they call a Gunnery Sergeant 'Sir', or interrupt him to ask to be put at ease. Furthermore, your insignia is up-side-down. Now why don't you tell me what this is all about?"
"We've been through a lot. You don't understand," The man pretending to be Sgt. Hill attempted to bluff.
Johnston interrupted him. The calm, understanding voice had been replaced with a demeanor of steel. "I understand that you and your friends are wearing uniforms that do not belong to you, professing to want to help, when you will be doing no such thing. Now tell me what this is going on or I will get angry."
The bluff and bravado left the erstwhile Sgt. Hill as if he had been a deflated balloon. He took a deep breath and began his story. "There was a food riot in our refugee camp; a dozen Marines never had a chance against ten thousand starving people.
"So you killed them?" Johnston asked, horrified.
"They retreated and we took what they left," the man said, eyes cast downward, now embarrassed. "We tried to get some food in the next town. It worked so well we kept doing it. We never hurt anyone"
Johnston gave the situation some thought. "Your careers as Marines are over," he stated plainly. "The way I see it, you have one of three choices. First, you and your friends can leave all of your costumes and props here with us in Jericho and move along, no hard feelings. It's better than you deserve. The second choice is that we convene court and try you all for being military imposters. I have a copy of the book Stolen Valor that came out in 1998. Perhaps you and your friends should read it while you are locked up awaiting your trial."
"You said there were three choices, Sir?" The man asked hopefully.
"The third choice is definitely more than you lot deserve," Johnston said, "But I'd like to think you were driven to your actions by desperation. You and your friends can give up your costumes and props and come live in our town on a trial basis. We are taking in refugees if they agree to certain conditions. You will be assigned to various Jericho Ranger squadrons and take watch 24 hours out of every 10 days to protect the town. You will work in the fields as needed. You will be assigned tasks at the shelter based upon aptitude and ability. If you prove that you really are good people, you can stay and make yourselves homes here. The first sign of trouble, however, and you'll find yourself in more trouble than you ever wanted."
The man was nodding in agreement as Johnston spoke. "I used to be a P.E. teacher. I could certainly be a Jericho Ranger. I'll do anything you ask of me, and my friends will do the same. Thank you, Sir, for the opportunity."
"We'll see," Johnston replied somewhat skeptically. "I'll be watching you."
Johnston turned and walked back toward the tank. He noticed that Stanley and Mimi had joined the group, probably on their way home from town in their farm truck.
Johnston and Jake shared a look of understanding; Johnston nodded. "Why don't you and Stuart head to the shelter and pick up a dozen changes of clothes for our friends. They will wait here for you. You can escort them back to the shelter later, once they have changed, and help them to fill in registration forms and get settled in. Stanley," he added, turning to the young man who was now standing beside his truck with a puzzled look on his face, "Do you have room in one of your barns for a tank?"
"Seriously?" Stanley asked.
"Why not," Johnston replied. "You never know when you might need a tank."
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N.B.: The herbal tea created for Phil Constantino and the other mental patients is fictitious. Kids, don't try this at home.