Options Are Good

Copyright 2013 by Jerry D Young All Rights Reserved

The following is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual names, persons, businesses, and incidents is strictly coincidental. Locations are used only in the general sense and do not represent the real place in actuality.

Options Are Good Authors Note People have many options now. How and where to live. What to eat and drink. To live on a farm or in a city. To be on the grid or off. But we might not always have that option. If certain things were to happen. Certainly unlikely things. But are these things really impossible, as many say?

Options Are Good Prolog Bandy Hawkins liked to have options. For everything he possibly could. It was hard sometimes on the disposable income budget Bandy worked with. But it was what he had to work with, and he was determined to become as prepared as he could for come what may. It was one of the reasons he liked options, which often translated into dual-use or multiuse items. Also items that extended capabilities of other items. It didnt mean getting every option available for every main item he did get. He was very judicious in his selections. If an option didnt really increase capability, utility, or versatility, he wouldnt spring for it. So Bandy was a researcher, thinker, planner, theorist, list maker, scenario creator; and to make sure things worked as planned as often as possible, a trial and error experimenter and drill doer.

Options Are Good Chapter 1 That was what he was doing at the moment. Running a drill to test out some new gear to make sure it performed as he believed it would. Specifically a set of MC Ace chamber adapters and MC Ace barreled inserts for some of his firearms. Hed decided on the weapons with the adapters and inserts in mind, getting the weapons first so he had some options ready to go. But the addition of .32 ACP and .30 Carbine adapters for his .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield chambered guns gave him more versatility than just the self-defense and big game hunting and sniping the two guns initially provided. With the semi-automatic PTR-91 in .308 he had a highly capable self-defense arm that could hunt game fairly well. With the adapters he could use other available ammunition, in single shot mode, for hunting smaller game quietly without wasting the self-defense rounds. It was much the same with the Remington 700 .30-06. It could fulfill some of the self-defense needs the PTR-91 did, including longer range sniping with the scope, while being primarily a big game hunting gun. It gave him two options for both hunting and self-defense. And as in the .308, the chamber adapters allowed for quiet taking of smaller game, down to rabbits and squirrels, all in the same rifle. At least that was what the plan was. The proof would be in the testing. The quietness was secondary to being accurate enough to take the small game at short range, but Bandy wanted to know just how quiet the rounds were.

He found out that afternoon at the range. The .30 Carbine rounds were not quiet, by any means, but they were far quieter than the .308 and .30-06. And the .32 ACPs coming out of the long barrels might not match custom suppressors, but they were on a par with light .22 loads. And both cartridges were easy to reload, something that couldnt be said for the highly recommended .22 rim fire rounds. As far as accuracy, only one combination was a tack driver. Fortunately that was a .32 ACP adapter in the Remington. He marked it so he would use it primarily for the hunting, with the second regulated more for practice and plinking. The other three were more than acceptable for 50-yard use. So he was able to do everything that many got an extra gun for, with either of the two guns he had. And in the over-all weapons acquisition plan, with a .32 ACP Beretta Tomcat as a hideout handgun, and an Auto-Ordnance .30 M1 Carbine on hand with four more planned as handout guns for inexperienced or non-shooters, the ammunition would be on hand, anyway, giving redundancy and just more options. The ten .32 ACP adapters for the planned five M1 Carbines worked just as well in the carbine he had, though he didnt anticipate as much use for them, other than initial training, though they would work well as small game guns. Again, another reason not to bother with a .22 rim fire gun and therefore keep the number of guns down as much as possible and still have options and some redundancy. Bandy was just as pleased with the dual sets of adapters he had for a set of single shot shotguns. With a set of three H&R NEF Pardner single-shot shotguns, and five Gauge Mate adapters, Bandy could shoot any shotgun ammunition he might run across, except 3 20 gauge, which was rare, indeed. All three shotguns had screw in chokes, which made use of the different gauges and bores easier and more accurate. The 10 gauge

would use 3, 3, and 2 10 gauge shells, and with the adapter 16 gauge 2 shells. The 12 gauge used 3, 3, 2, 2, and 1 12 gauge shells and with two different adapters, 2 24 gauge and 2 28 gauge shells. The 20 gauge used 3 and 2 20 gauge shells, and the two adapters, 2 32 gauge shells, and 3 and 2 .410 bore shells. The set would be for loaners and to use any found or traded for ammunition. Another set of two guns he had set up for himself as inexpensive multi-purpose hunting guns when defense wasnt much of a factor. Another 12 gauge shotgun and another 20 gauge shotgun. Both were Stoeger Condor Supreme 3" chamber over under barrel shotguns with single set triggers. The 12 gauge had 26 barrels and the 20 gauge 24 ones. Another two sets of adapters and insert barrels, one for the 12 gauge and one for the twenty gauge, turned them into adaptable hunting guns. Both had a .22 Hornet 18 insert barrel, and the 12 gauge a .45/70 18 insert barrel and the 20 gauge a .30-30 18 insert barrel. They could be set up as is, with either rifle barrel and a shotgun barrel, or both rifle barrels. Of course Bandy also had a Remington 11-87 semi-auto shotgun set up as a dual-purpose defensive and hunting shotgun, which would do the majority of the shotgun hunting during normal times.

Just as the Glock 21SF and 30SF .45 ACP handguns, and the Beretta Tomcat, would fulfill their rolls of primary, backup, and hideout handgun. The versatility of the .45 ACP came from the fact that FMJ, JHP, shot, and flare rounds were available for it, and the Glock 30SF would use the 13-round magazines the 21SF used, as well as its own 9-round and 10-round magazines. Bandys gun acquisition program was well under way, though he didnt have everything he wanted. Not by a long shot. The plans included an anti-materiel/long range sniper rifle, a Vigilance VR-1 .408 CheyTac suppressed semi-auto when he could afford it. Or in the interim, another Remington, this one in .375 H&H Magnum, a much cheaper but less capable option. Also as an option was a Weatherby .460 Magnum. Black powder capable cartridge arms in .32-20, .45 Colt, .45-70, and 12 gauge with all brass shells were high up on the list. To go even further back in time and technology, single shot .32 caliber, .58 caliber, and 12 gauge flintlock guns would be picked up eventually. Already in hand were both modern and more primitive versions of long bows and cross bows, thrusting spears and javelin throwing spears, lances, bowie knives, swords, and tomahawks; plus plenty of less than, and nonlethal weapons such as bolos and entangling nets. Maintenance, repair, and reloading equipment was in hand for all weapons he had in stock, with the plans to get what was needed for future weapons purchases also set. Spare parts and ammunition were ongoing programs.

And as those needs were filled, additional modern primary arms, such as the Remingtons, PTRs, and Glocks would be acquired for redundancy and simply greater capability for defense. But that was all simply weapons related. A very important part of Bandys overall plans, but by no means the primary or even most expensive one. It wasnt just hardware items where he wanted options. Far from it. Even more important were planning options. They were what drove the hardware options to a large degree. He wanted to be able to change which existing plan to use; modify existing plans; create new plans for new information, situations, and equipment changes; and, though it seemed counter intuitive, to just abandon current plans and wing it. Though that was actually a process to develop a suitable plan as a fluid situation demanded He applied the same ideas for everything he did. Everyday living wise, prep wise, and financially. Finding options was automatic with him. That was why he was headed out again, after cleaning and securing the guns at home, that Saturday afternoon. His budget called for the addition of a bit more silver and gold to his small holdings this month. Even as much as they had gone up, Bandy had continued his PM buying program, adjusting the budget to allow for the higher prices. Fortunately, he actually liked Ramen noodles, shrimp flavor; though using only one-half to two-thirds of the seasoning packet, so his former dollar fifty to three dollar lunches were now only about seventy-five cents, including a bottle of his home brew root beer. That and a new devotion to buying everything possible on sale made up the difference. Of course, the quantity of PMs he bought was

less, going for only ten circulated pre-1965 US 90% silver dimes, four like quarters, one US Silver Eagle one ounce bullion coin, or a tenth ounce US Gold Eagle bullion coin at a time. So Bandy spent the afternoon checking the coin shops and pawn shops he used when buying the PMs, always for cash, and so far without having to give his name, despite the new reporting requirements. Though the retail prices were holding in relation to the spot prices he got from Kitco, actually finding the coins was becoming more difficult. But a tenth ounce Gold Eagle was secure in his pocket when he went home. He added it to the partial tube in the small safe. After a light supper and then his limit of a second bottle of his root beer for desert, Bandy got on the internet and caught up on the prep forums he was a member of, and checked for possible sales at the online supply stores he occasionally used. Nothing much to comment on, and no new sales, so Bandy read the one new prepping short story he found, and then went to bed. His work week was Sunday through Thursday, with Fridays and Saturdays off, usually. But he did get a lot of overtime. The company wasnt too bad to work for, but there was still quite a bit of turnover, which often meant a double shift, or an extra shift, on a semi-regular basis. That helped the budget tremendously, though he never counted on it. It turned out that it was one of those double shift days. The new guy on the warehouse floor didnt show up at shift change that afternoon, so Bandy offered to cover it, as he usually did. One of the things the place did have was a decent break room, and a locker room, so Bandy was able to keep some extra food, a change of

clothes, and some preps at work without it being a problem, so the doubles were no problem for him. Especially the swing shift. It was almost always fairly light duty, which was one of the reason why the new guys were usually assigned to work it, as they got less pay than the heavily worked day shifters, and very seldom where there any complex loadings to do. Graves, on the other hand, while there wasnt much loading done, was when the incoming products were unloaded and placed in the warehouse, and a detailed inventory done. That one Bandy didnt much like to cover, but he did when needed. And he did get full double time for anything he covered. So, tired, but happy, Bandy went home after eleven, went to bed and slept soundly. It was the only overtime of the week, but Bandy didnt let the time he wasnt working be unproductive. He was not a great gardener, though he was good with trees and bushes. But Bandy was determined to build and equip a greenhouse at his place to supplement his small, specialized garden, the perennials he grew, the fruit and nut orchard, the minivineyard, ground fruits, and other food producing plants he grew. The garden was fairly specialized, in two ways. One, Bandy grew mostly what he considered soup and stew vegetables. Potatoes, sauce tomatoes, carrots, sweet onions, celery, sweet peas, and sweet corn. He grew turnips and leeks for similar reasons. And two, Bandy grew cereal grains in his garden in addition to the corn. Not a lot. Just three kinds of wheat; plus rye; oats; and rice, irrigated, not flooded. And only enough to furnish his yearly needs, plus a years worth to put into long term storage each year.

Hed acquired a taste for fresh and pickled vegetable salads, and wanted the greenhouse for Riesentraube tomatoes, cucumbers, some summer squash, cauliflower, radishes, and baby corn. Most he would grow with a Verti-gro aquaponics system that incorporated fish tanks placed in a small building at one end of the greenhouse that would also house rabbit hutches, worm beds, and a large mushroom cabinet. The corn for the baby corn, the radishes, and cauliflower would be grown in raised beds in the greenhouse, but the beets he would add to the outside garden. All of his free time that week was spent in his large back yard, preparing the site for the greenhouse and support building. One of his requirements that went in with his beliefs about options was that anything he built or had built, be built with longevity in mind. He built with the intention that the structure would outlast him, and hopefully, several additional generations. So the work went a little slowly, but the greenhouse was solid, with deep, strong, reinforced concrete foundations; quality galvanized steel framework; and triple wall polycarbonate panels. The support building, like Bandys house, was reinforced ICF and CMU construction. It would be some time before the greenhouse was ready, equipped, and in service. Before winter, but not much before. But Bandy was on it, and when he got started, it was only a matter of time before he completed a project. One of the things that would delay the completion was the expense of acquiring the independent solar power and battery system to run the aquaponics pumps, the fans, grow lights, and other systems for the greenhouse.

But the components were all in the budget, and Bandy knew how to handle a budget. Which he was looking at a couple weeks later. He had many budget line items. And of course some of them were savings and emergency funds, and a couple of funds for high ticket items that had quite a bit of cash in them available. And then there was the relationship line item. Hed been faithfully putting in a few dollars every paycheck into that fund. And hadnt pulled any out to speak of. His social budget was smaller, and he used a little from time to time to get a drink with the guys, or go to an event, or something, but finding a woman he thought he might consider a relationship with wasnt going well. Bandy almost revised the budget, to drop the relationship fund and spread it out in several others that he really wanted to expedite. But when he shut off the computer, he was still without a relationship, but he did still have a budget for one. It is amazing how things can work out. Almost a foreshadowing aspect to life. Ana-Bella Sheridan walked into Bandy Hawkins life the following week. Drove, actually. She was a semi-truck driver running mostly high value loads to the oil patch in Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana. This run she was just doing a friend a favor. After some items that as soon as Bandy saw the pick order, he realized were quite probably destined for a survival shelter of some type. Somewhere. The warehouse wasnt a survival store by any stretch of imagination, but it handled several hundred thousand items, from tiny screws and washers up to one inch thick hard steel plate. That included some retail products, in addition to mostly commercial products. Framing steel, small commercial appliances, some blowers and pumps, several kinds and sizes of steel plate, rebar, concrete finishing

tools, fastening materials, insulation, commercial triple bunks; pipe, wiring, and duct with appropriate fittings and tools; and several more items that would all be useful in a fallout and blast shelter more so than in a tornado or simple disaster shelter. Bandy saw the pick order long before he saw Ana-Bella. He had to suddenly revise what impressed him the most. That pick order was something. But Ana-Bella Sheridan was something else. And Bandy couldnt quite figure out what. She was pretty, but not a stunning beauty. Kind of tall, but not as tall as him. Very slim, top to bottom. And really long legs. In tailored khaki cargo pants that didnt quite fit like a glove, but came close. The pants were tucked into tall brown leather shotgun boots with Vibram soles. The blue shirt, that Bandy noticed had two pockets and epaulets, was partially covered with a light brown leather jacket. And she had on a hat. A real hat. Not a cap or even a cowboy hat. But another leather item, matching the boots and jacket. It had a solid flat top and wide brim, but the sides of the crown were of mesh. It was only when someone called over to her as she was walking toward Bandy that he saw the long blonde hair hanging over the collar of the jacket. It swayed, Bandy noticed. Swayed nicely. It was Betty that had called over. She was hurrying from the office and, needlessly, waved Bandy over to join her and Ana-Bella at one side of the loading door. Right next to the neatly stacked, ready for loading items on the pick list. Bandy, this is Ms Sheridan. There is a problem with the payment, Ms Sheridan. I cant let Bandy load your truck until it gets straightened out. Becky looked at Bandy. Bandy, dont load her until I give you the okay.

Bandy looked at Ana-Bella helplessly and shrugged slightly. To Bandys delight, Ana-Bella smiled and shrugged herself. Which was, despite the slim and trim figure, and leather jacket, and blue shirt, a nice sight. Im Ana-Bella Sheridan, Ana-Bella said, holding out her hand for Bandy to shake. Got a place I can get a snack and another bott le of water or two while I wait? Sure, Bandy said. Follow me. Im Bandy Hawkins. Bandy would have pretty much died of embarrassment had he known, much less seen, Ana-Bella giving him the onceover, from head to toe, as she followed him toward the office from the warehouse side. We have several options, as you can see, Bandy said, pointing out the snack and drink machines in the short hallway that opened to the customer bathrooms. You dont seem too upset. Wouldnt help any, and Im used to it with Longhammer, anyway. He has a habit of doing things like this. The man is smart as they come, and can certainly pay for the load, he just has a tendency to forget details sometimes. Like paying up front. This isnt a high priority load. He wont use any of the stuff for some time. But I had some down time and told him Id come get it while I had a chance. You want something from the machine? No. But thanks. You, uh Know what the load is for? Bandy asked rather tentatively. Well, actually, I do, Ana-Bella said after taking a long drink of water that made Bandy as thirsty as hed ever been in his life, he decided.

But it isnt public knowledge and I keep my loads pretty confidential. I see. I would that one, if it is what I think it probably is. Bandy leaned against the wall with one shoulder. Ana-Bella took up a similar position, a slight smile playing on her lips. Bandy couldnt take his eyes off her. You think you know what everything is for? she asked. I think so. All for one project, unless Im way off. Might be some extras, just because you have the space. But, yep. Im thinking one fairly large project. Ana-Bella laughed. I see. Quite confident of yourself. And Im of a mind that you would be a mile off. Kinda makes for the option of a nice bet, wouldnt you say? A bet? Bandy asked. Im not really a betting man. I just have it fixed in my mind what the load is for. I dont have to know. Yeah. But I have to know if you are right or not. My insatiable curiosity. And since Im stubborn as all get out, too, according to my Mother, I wont just ask you. Gotta be a bet. A real bet. Ill just tell you. We dont have to Chicken? Ana-Bella asked. But it was with a smile. She thought for a moment, and then did something, that despite her propensity to engage in these small bets, she had never done before. Tell you what, Bandy, guys are always hitting on me and wanting to take me out for dinner. What say I agree to go out with you tonight, on me, since Ill still be in town, if you are right. And if you are as

wrong as I believe, you can just give me fifty bucks to get my own nice dinner. Fifty bucks! I never bet like that! Bandy said, thinking of what the money would buy in preps. It suddenly struck him that he did have that relationship money burning a hole in his pocket, metaphorically. Okay. And dont worry. I wont ask for more than a nice meal and a nice time. Im not the kind of guy you have to worry about, anyway. You are so sure! Ana-Bella laughed throatily, sending a shiver down Bandys back. Ill hold you to that, if you inconceivably win. And besides. I can take care of myself. I wasnt worried about that. But Im glad you told me. And she was. So. What do you think the load is for? And I will give you one hint. It is all for one project. Bandy studied Ana-Bellas face. It was pretty. Maybe more than pretty, the more he saw. Okay. Its all for a disaster, slash fallout, slash blast, shelter and or bunker. Ana-Bellas bright blue eyes widened dramatically and she gasped. So softly, that Bandy wasnt sure he heard right the first time, she said, Yes! Then she repeated it. Just a bit more loudly, after looking around to see if anyone was close. Yes. It is a shelter and bunker complex a friend of my Father is putting in. Hes become a big time survivalist. How could you possibly have known? Ana-Bella was shaking her head. It was easy, Bandy said, suddenly trying to decide how to get out of the bet. And said something he very seldom said. Im a prepper myself. If I was going to build something like that for myself, on that scale, the items are the type that I would get. Prepper?

Survivalist without many agendas. Im out to survive what comes, not start something with any entity. Oh. I guess that is what Longhammer is, really. Hes getting some guns, but said they would be the last thing he picked up. I cant believe this! No one else would have ever figured it out, Im sure. There was an awkward silence for a few moments. But then Bandy said, Look. I wont hold you to Oh, no. I dont welsh on my bets. Ill pay up. If I can remember how to even go on a date. I havent had one in a couple of years. You? But youre gorgeous! You should have dates every night! Bandy said, surprising himself no end. Aw, thats sweet, Bandy! But I stay pretty busy for the most part. On the road all the time. And its hard to meet nice guys doing what I do. Ana-Bella looked startled for a moment. It just occurred to me. Im not stepping on your girlfriends toes, am I? I mean, Im not out to steal you away. I never thought youd win. Naw. I dont have a girlfriend. And it has been longer than two years since Ive had anything even resembling a date. Im not sure how to act. Well work it out. But later. Here comes your lady. Betty gushed. Its all perfectly all right! I so apologize! It was just some minor misunderstanding! Then she turned to Bandy. Bandy, you take good care of Ms Sheridan and the load for Mr. Longhammer. He was quite charming on the telephone.

And Longhammer scores again, Ana-Bella said with a laugh. He could charm the food away from a starving man. So. I guess Id better position the truck. They were all business for the time it took to load the truck. There was another awkward moment when Ana-Bella finished securing the load and was ready to leave. But she smiled, one foot on the running board of the truck, and a hand on a grab rail of the cab. Where and when? Your choice. I dont know. We can always do some fast food. Or pizza, I guess. I dont want to cost you an arm and a leg. Nope. Someplace nice. I havent had a really nice dinner in a long time. Somewhere a nice dress would be appropriate. She smiled down at Bandy. I actually have one. Never worn it on a trip, but I always carry it. Yeah. Im a believer in options, myself. Okay. There is a steak house on Main that isnt too expensive. About seven? Or earlier if you need to get on the road earlier. Nope. Im here until tomorrow noonish. Seven it is. Ill find the steakhouse. Whats the name? Bandy told her and Ana-Bella climbed up the rest of the way into the cab of the truck. Ill see you at seven. Managing not to think about the upcoming date with Ana-Bella constantly, at least no more than fifty-five minutes out of every hour until shift end, Bandy was extra careful when loading the trucks that came in, since he knew he was a little distracted.

And then came the dreaded request. He would have bet a lot more than a date on the fact that someone wouldnt show for swing shift. And his boss was caught at a loss when Bandy, when told hed be working through, declined. You always work these situations! Who am I supposed to get? Let Randy handle it. He could probably use the time, though you probably have to get him some coffee and food. He doesnt have any extra, Im sure. Come on, Bandy! I need you here! Alan, something has come up that I just cant put off. Im sorry. And I will make it up to you. But not today. Im taking off. See you in the morning. Alan knew which side his bread was buttered on. Bandy had pulled Alans fingers out of the fire too many times to begrudge him one time not doing so. He went to find Randy. Bandy didnt go straight home. Though he wasnt expecting AnaBella to be in his truck, he washed it at the drive through car wash, cleaned it carefully, and topped off the tanks before he went home. He showered and shaved extra carefully, and then took a full ten minutes trying to decide which suit he would wear. It was a situation where Bandy didnt have a tremendous number of options. But he did have a few. His black funeral suit. His bought at a bargain for a possible cruise that didnt go through light gray tux. The Sunday go to meetin dark blue suit. The he couldnt remember why he bought it light gray suit. The dress up like a gangster for Halloween one year pinstripe dark charcoal suit.

He finally skipped over the suits and went with one of his three blazers, a pair of nice gray slacks, and a subtle pattern very light pink shirt. The blazer had been an internet find. Not too expensive, Italian leather, beautiful finish, basic black, and it fit him like it was tailored for him. And the pink shirt wasnt glaring. Just a very soft pink with figured thread work that gave it some texture. Black zip on dress boots and his black felt wide brim fedora completed the ensemble. Checking his watch every few minutes, Bandy sat down at the computer and began to kill the hour he had before leaving. Despite watching his watch and the time in the lower right corner of his computer screen, Bandy almost missed his intended departure time. But he sighed in relief, seeing it was exactly six oclock. He looked for his black felt wide brim fedora for two long minutes, until he remembered he already had it on. Shaking his head, Bandy headed to the garage to get into the truck. Suddenly terrified he would get in a traffic accident, or do something that would get him pulled over, Bandy drove carefully, had his lights on well before required, and double checked his seat belt half a dozen times. But he made it to the steak house in plenty of time. Bandy checked with the matre d to see if Ana-Bella had made reservations, by chance. The place was already getting crowded. She had. Under Sheridan. At seven. Bandy glanced at his watch and hurried outside. He took a seat off by himself on one of the benches, his eyes scanning the road for any sign of Ana-Bellas semi rig.

It was getting close to seven and Bandy found himself becoming very disappointed when Ana-Bella still hadnt show up. He took his eyes off the road to look at a taxi that pulled up under the entry canopy. And jumped to his feet when he saw Ana-Bellas face through the rear passenger seat glass. His heart was pounding when he hurried over to get the door of the taxi, since the cabbie was making no move to get out and do it. And he said it before he could stop himself. You actually showed up! You doubted me? Ana-Bella asked, lifting one hand up for Bandy to take to help her out of the taxi. No. Not you. Me. It is just hard for me to accept someone like you would go out with me. Even on a lost bet. With a demure flash of leg, Ana-Bella came out of the taxi to stand beside Bandy. Hed barely closed the door when the taxi took off. Guess you already paid him. I did. With no tip. The slug was hitting on me the entire time. And Bandy Dont count yourself short. You came across as a nice guy the whole time at the warehouse. The light wasnt bad under the entry canopy, but it was a lot better at the doors to the restaurant and Bandy got a good look at Ana-Bellas dress. It was all he could do not to whistle. Which he wasnt inclined to do at any time. But that dress, on Ana-Bella, would bring out the wolf in most men. That is some dress, Bandy said. She was smiling when his eyes met hers again. You couldnt have been carrying anything any better.

About the dress, Ana-Bella said her left arm on Bandys right as someone held the door open for them. This isnt the one I carry Thats a nice dress. A sun dress, but nice. I bought this one this afternoon. I just wanted something a little more When she hesitated, looked for just the right word, Bandy supplied it for her. Well, you got your moneys worth, no matter what you paid. You and that dress are beautiful. Ana-Bella could tell that it was a heartfelt comment. Why thank you, Bandy. After giving the matre d her name and being told it would be another few minutes, the two went to the bar to wait. With a nice white wine for Ana-Bella, and a neat Irish Mist for Bandy in hand, the two took a stand up table to wait for the call. Bandy, do you mind if I ask you if Bandy is your real name, or a nickname of some type? Ana-Bella asked him. She hadnt objected when he paid for the drinks. My real name. The way my Father put it, they were having a hard time coming up with something they liked that was different, but not too outlandish. He said, and I quote, We bandied about dozens of names. And there you go. You became Bandy. That is rather sweet. Your parents doing okay? No. Lost them both. Auto accident. A tornado literally came up behind them and totally destroyed their car before my Dad could evade it. Just after my high school graduation. Ana-Bellas free hand went to Bandys arm. Im so sorry, Bandy! That must have been hard.

Yeah. Bandy shrugged. But it gave me a lifelong dedication for prepping. And the pressure to do well on my own from the start. It was obvious that Bandy wanted to change the subject. And what about your name? Ana-Bella is rather unique. And very fitting for you somehow. Not too unique. You see it sometimes. Usually with two Ns and no hyphen. And it is hyphenated. Im not sure about fitting. I was conceived in the Anabella Hotel in Anaheim California while my parents were on their honeymoon. Ah. I took it you were from the south. You just look like a southern belle. And the accent Isnt too bad, is it? Ana-Bella asked with a laugh. You are the perceptive one. I am from the south. Georgia. We moved up to Oklahoma when I was thirteen. But Im told I still have the accent a little. A lot when I get back to Georgia. That where your parents are? Georgia? Ana-Bella shook her head, causing Bandys eyes to go to her shimmering hair. No. Theyre still near Oklahoma City. But I get a run to Georgia every once in a while. Her name was called and Bandy took her elbow to guide her through the crowd. It had really filled up since she had arrived. Bandy did not notice, but Ana-Bella did, that they got more than one appreciative look. Her mostly from guys, and Bandy from more than a few women. She smiled inwardly. Why she was letting him guide her protectively she wasnt sure, as she was usually a hard charger and d id pretty much everything on her own. She didnt mind having a door

opened or anything, but Bandys old style charm and gentlemanliness was nice. He seated her and then sat across the table from her, placing his hat on one of the other chairs at the table. Bandy only protested slightly when Ana-Bella insisted on appetizers. Bandy gave in when Ana-Bella softly said, I insist, Bandy. We can share one. This is going to be a good time and I plan to eat hearty. If you want to select and pay for the wine, I wont object. It was enough to satisfy Bandys need to contribute and he quickly agreed. And though he didnt order the most expensive dishes on the menu, he did order what he wanted. And it was a fun time. Despite the crowd, it wasnt too loud in the restaurant and they were able to carry on a conversation without raising their voices. Bandy didnt think hed ever laughed as much as he did that evening. Ana-Bella had dozens of female truck driver experience stories, and most of them were hilarious. Ana-Bella didnt hesitate to order a desert, and Bandy followed suit, both having hot tea with their deserts. Bandy caught the wistful look on Ana-Bellas face as the server took their credit cards up to pay for the meal and wine respectively. The words were out of his mouth before he even thought about it. Ana-Bella, It is barely nine. Theres a place a ways down Would you like to get a nightcap and maybe a dance or two? All on me. Im not a very good dancer, but Oh, Bandy! That would be so nice! I havent danced since I cant even remember when. Bandy looked sheepish. Im really not very good. But there are always some good dancers there

I go with you; Ill be dancing with you. Sure! I really dont have to be anywhere early. Smiling much as they had when coming in, the two left. Bandy whistled up a cab. You took a cab here, too? Ana-Bella asked. Bandy shook his head. No. Just my old truck. Its fine. Really. But Id rather take you there in a cab. Well, I wont object, but I can pay for Nope. The rest of the evening is on me. I havent had such a nice time in ever come to think of it. Thats sweet, Bandy, Ana-Bella said, taking his hand again to get into the cab with a swish of her dress hem. Again they got a few looks when they came in. I guess I should explain, Bandy said after they got a table. I come here from time to time with a couple of friends with wives that like to dance. Im not sure why they want me to come, but I do when they ask. Just sit and watch their stuff while they dance the night away. Thats nice that you would do that, Bandy. They dont ever get you up on the dance floor? Oh, sometimes. Mostly they try to talk me into going and asking some of the other women without partners to dance. Ana-Bella grinned. Trying to get you set up? You said the couples are married? Yeah. And that is probably it, Bandy said. I always thought they just wanted me to watch their stuff.

The waitress was there, and the two ordered drinks again, the same as theyd had before dinner. Im going to have to limit it to two, AnaBella told Bandy. I am on the road tomorrow, even if it is in the afternoon. Okay. And Ill just have an extra splash on that Irish Mist, and call it good, Bandy told the waitress. He gave her his credit card. But keep it open, just in case someone comes by. It suddenly struck him how that might have sounded to Ana-Bella and turned nearly panicked eyes on her. Oh. Look. I didnt mean to make it sound like I brought you here to show you off! Really! I only wanted to keep the evening going! Not to get my friends to Ana-Bella put her left hand on Bandys right and looked him in the eyes. It is all right, Bandy. I didnt think a thing of it until you said something. I dont mind being seen with you by your friends. I trust you to let them know what the situation is, if it was to even come up. Im a big girl and dont get my feelings hurt very easily. Oh. Okay. Guess I just over reacted. It just sounded so self serving. Forget about it. And lets dance. I like this number. This one? Bandy said and gulped audibly. Ana-Bella took his hand and tugged him up from the table with an enchanting laugh. Bandy managed to hold his own, and when Ana-Bella got up for a slow dance he didnt hold her tight, but she didnt mind having him holding her, so he kept her close. For several in a row.

Theyd long finished their drinks and switched to tea again between dances. Reluctantly they both checked their watches just before midnight. I really have to get back to the motel, Ana-Bella said. I know, Bandy said. I have to work in the morning, too. But Id have been working a double tonight anyway, so it isnt that much later for me than it would have been. And so much more fun. Bandy put on his hat, stood up, and took Ana-Bellas hand. They walked hand in hand to the check stand and Bandy signed the bill and retrieved his card. They had not been interrupted a single time during their time there. Bandy asked the clerk to call for a cab and Ana-Bella took his hand again as they went outside. The night had cooled down and before Ana-Bella could say anything, Bandy had his blazer around her shoulders. You didnt have to do that, she told him. But she stood close and added, But Im glad you did. It is cool out now. Ana-Bella kept the blazer on after giving the driver the address to the motel where she was staying the night. She hadnt taken Bandys hand in hers again, so Bandy didnt either. But he did get out and walk her to the door of the motel room and take the blazer when she slipped it off her shoulders. I had a wonderful time, tonight, Bandy, Ana-Bella said quietly. I am so glad I lost that bet. I just hope I havent disappointed you. This is all I have to offer. It is more than enough, Bandy said. I was neither asking nor expecting any more. And youre sure youll be okay on the trip tomorrow?

Oh, yes. But how about you? Can you drive home? I could, Bandy said, but quickly added. But Im not going to. Ill have one of the guys pick me up in the morning so I can get the truck. This has been too good of a night to risk anything alcohol related. Good. I knew you were a good guy. Im glad youre a prepper, too. It is what got us together for the evening. Goodnight. Goodnight, Ana-Bella Sheridan, Bandy replied. She slipped through the door and was gone. Bandy, an even worse whistler than he was dancer, was whistling anyway when he got back into the taxi. Where to, Mac? Home to the wife? That cabbie didnt get a tip, either.

Options Are Good Chapter 2 Bandy thought about Ana-Bella often the next month, mostly when he was working on the greenhouse. He even thought about asking Betty for the phone number that Ana-Bella had given when she arranged for the load. But that was a little presumptuous he decided. He sighed one Sunday evening, muttering to himself, It was just a chance encounter. Nothing more, and decided to put Ana-Bella out of his mind. It was not that easy to do, but Bandy threw himself into getting the greenhouse finished before winter and took all the overtime he could get to help finance it. So it was coming up on Thanksgiving when Bandy put the finishing touches on the greenhouse and support building and fired up the systems. He wouldnt get any worms, fish, or rabbits yet, but had everything ready for them. He would use the Verti-gro system as a basic hydroponics system until he had more experience with the systems. The Monday before Thanksgiving he was surprised no end when Ana-Bellas truck showed up at the warehouse just before shift end. She had a load on and Bandy wondered why she was stopping. When she climbed down out of the cab she waved and walked over to join Bandy at the access door. Dont think I can get much more on your truck, Bandy said with a smile. Ana-Bella was also smiling. Nope. Think not. And it isnt why I stopped. I need some help. She held out her hand, but more held Bandys when he took it to shake it. Are you all right? The immediate concern in Bandy was

obvious to Ana-Bella and the doubts shed had about stopping to talk to him began to fade. Oh, Im fine. Theres just a situation One I need to talk to someone with special skills and get some advice. You wouldnt happen to actually be getting off on time again today, would you? Actually, yes. The full swing crew is already here. I will be leaving right on time. Would you mind getting a cup of tea somewhere with me so I can pick your brains for a little while? I wouldnt mind at all. There is a place not far from here where we order in lunch once in a while. No good truck parking, but you can leave the rig here and we can go in my truck. That would be so great, Bandy! Thank you. She squeezed his hand and let it slip from hers. Let me park out of the way and grab something from the sleeper. The rest of the warehouse crew were watching in awe as Ana-Bella joined Bandy in the employee parking lot and got into his truck. Quite the truck, Ana-Bella said, having looked it over as they approached. Its no Rufus, but it does most of what I want, Bandy replied. Rufus? Ana-Bella asked. Bandy looked over at her and smiled. Name of a very well equipped post-apocalyptic world use vehicle I read about in a prep story.

Prep story? Bandy nodded and turned into the diner parking lot. Yeah. There are some authors that write about preparedness and survival possibilities for entertainment and some educational purposes, and post them on the web. I see. I guess we could have walked down here, Ana-Bella said, getting out of the truck after the short ride. But that information makes me more sure than ever Ive come to the right person for advice. Not sure how, but whatever I can do to help, I sure will. Bandy held the door open for Ana-Bella and then led the way to a booth near the rear of the restaurant. The waitress was right there and they got their order for tea, and, as it turned out, pieces of coconut cream pie, before Ana-Bella began to tell Bandy of her problem. You know that load I picked up for my dads friend, Longhammer? I remember it fondly, actually, Bandy said. Yeah. Actually, I do, too, Ana-Bella replied with a smile. But it is at the heart of the matter. Longhammer is in a hurry now to get something built. He has good contacts in the government and thinks that things are going to get really terrible in the future. Possibly even war with China. Nuclear war. I have the same feeling, Bandy said softly. I hope that doesnt make things worse. Just the opposite. Means you know what is driving him. The problem is, he became acquainted with some how should I put it less than savory characters. They dont call themselves a militia, but they

are in trouble with the Sheriff back home all the time over militia activities. Now, I did some research on prepping and survival after meeting you, and think you are, as you said, a prepper, as opposed to what some people, like this bunch, are coming off as. A bunch of lowlifes looking to take advantage where they can, now, and in the future, if it turns bad. They have Longhammer buying up guns and ammunition now and are trying to turn him into one of them, with the idea of taking over the area in the event of a major disaster, based out of the shelter hes getting ready to build. Everything Ive found out tells me that they arent at all representative of what prepping, or really even survivalism, is all about. They are simply a dangerous gang that has big plans for the future. And they wont be good plans for my family and friends at home. I need someone I can trust You to come up and talk to my Father and help him talk Longhammer into ditching these guys before things go any further than they already have. Could you Would you do that? This Thanksgiving? Ill pay all expenses Not necessary, Ana-Bella. Id be glad to help. And dont worry about the expenses. I can travel inexpensively when I want to. Youd have a place to stay at home, Ana-Bella said. You can stay with my parents. Im sure they wont mind. You wouldnt have to get a motel or anything. And Mother is a great cook. They are both worried about Longhammer and what could happen in the future if that gang takes control, or even try to, if things get bad. I can stay in a

No. The house. I insist. I dont want this to cost you. Youd be doing me a big favor. Well Lets wait and let your father decide whether I can stay or not. When do you need me up there? And for how long? Were taking the full holiday and weekend off, so that isnt a problem at all. And if need be, I can talk my boss into letting me have a couple of days at either end, too. Things slow down a bit this time of year. Youd do that? Ana-Bellas eyes were wide. And very blue, Bandy decided, looking deep into them for the fraction of a second before she blinked and he tore his eyes from her face out of fear of doing something stupid, silly, or both. Like trying to kiss her. Of course I would, Ana-Bella. Situations like this need to be nipped in the bud. Im a proponent of legal state mi litias and home defense groups. Im not in favor of a gang of thugs trying to run things to their advantage at the expense of other people. Well, I have to drop this load tomorrow, Ana-Bella said. And then Im headed home for until after Thanksgiving. Whenever you could show up during that time would be great. Dad has already invited Longhammer and June and their kids for Thanksgiving dinner this year. Okay. Ill be there before then. Oh, thank you, Bandy! I knew I could count on you. But I need to get going if Im going to make my delivery time tomorrow. Sure thing, Bandy said. He took care of the check while Ana Bella went to the bathroom.

There wasnt much talk on the three minute ride back to the warehouse. Another touch of hands, lingering, and Ana-Bella was on the way to deliver her load, and Bandy went in to talk to Alan. Aw, man! You and that woman! Shes corrupting you. I need you here at work these next two days. It struck Bandy the wrong way and Alan knew it immediately. Careful what you say of the lady, Bandy said in a tone of voice, and with a look on his face that Alan had never heard or seen. I didnt mean that like it sounded, Bandy, Alan quickly said, knowing instinctively that Bandy would just flat out quit on him if he implied anything bad about Ana-Bella. Just Best you dont say anything else, Bandy said. Do I get the time or not? Next two days and next Monday and Tuesday, just to make sure I have enough time to do what I need to do. There was no way Alan would push it. Of course you can have the time off, Bandy. And Im sorry I upset you. I didnt mean anything by it. Good enough. Then Ill see you the Wednesday after Thanksgiving. Bandy was still a bit stiff legged when he went back out to his truck, and Alan was feeling very lucky he hadnt lost an employee and had his clock cleaned to boot, though he really couldnt picture Bandy getting physical. Probably. Bandy thought long and hard on what he would take with him, and how he would approach the situation when he got there. But by seven in

the morning the next morning, Bandy was on the road, headed for near Oklahoma City, still mulling over Ana-Bellas trust in him. He pushed pretty hard, though he took breaks regularly, to eat and go to the bathroom, and top off the multiple fuel tanks installed in the truck. Bandy had planned, initially, on camping out, but the weather was taking a turn for the worse, and he decided that a couple of nights in motels wouldnt cost him too much. It was just a matter of the best option for the situation. He could certainly handle the weather camping out, but he could make better time stopping at motels rather than setting up and then breaking down camp at a campground. It was just after noon when Bandy checked the addresses AnaBella had given him at the diner. He drove past the large Farm Supply business and Implement dealership that Angus Longhammer owned. A slight whistle made it past his lips. It was an impressive place. And then, when he got to Ana-Bellas parents place, he whistled again. Shed said her family raised horses and cattle, but hadnt mentioned the extent of the place. There were half a dozen beautiful barns, as well kept up as the large home, and the other three smaller homes on the property. Lush green pastures and paddocks contrasted with the deep brown of the groomed dirt in the corrals and horse training areas. The various driveways, that were not made of concrete, were nicely tended gravel. Bandy pulled up to the main gate and saw the call box on one gate post. He got out and rang the house. Hello. Yes. My name is Bandy Hawkins and That was all he got out before a booming voice, even over the speaker, cut him off.

So youre the one. Come on up. Ill meet you out in front of the house. Mind the dogs. Bandy saw the gate begin to slide sideways and got back into the truck to drive up the long winding driveway to the buildings on the slight rise of the property. He knew it was a test when the man standing on the walkway up to the house from the parking area stood where he was and let Bandy get out of the truck to be greeted by three grown Airedales and four pups of various ages. Bandy took his time, let the dogs thoroughly check him out, and then stood up straight to walk over to greet Ana-Bellas father, the pups running around him, still a bit excited. But the adults took off and the pups quickly followed at a word from Sheridan. Mr. Sheridan? Bandy asked. Yes. Bob Sheridan. Sheridan didnt make the handshake a test, but it was firm. And you are Bandy Hawkins. Not quite what I expected, from my daughters descriptions. Bandy didnt quite know what to make of it, so he didnt mention it. I just wanted to check in and let you know I was here. Bandy grabbed his hat, and Bob grabbed his beautiful gray felt cowboy hat as a gust of cold wind stirred up some dust. Ill head in and find a motel. Ana-Bella has my cell phone number, so she can call me when she gets in and Nonsense, Bob said. Come on into the house. Youll be staying here for the duration. Well get your bags later. Id like to talk to you about the situation before Ana-Bella gets here, anyway.

Deciding that going along with Bob Sheridan would be better than not, for this at least, Bandy followed the man up the stairs to the porch and then inside. His cowboy hat went on a peg of a long hat rack, and Bandy placed his alongside. He noted the gun case not far from the door. There were gun belts with revolvers hanging on pegs inside, along with a selection of lever action rifles and double barrel shotguns. The gun belts had shells in the loops, and there were bandoleers of rifle and shotgun shells on other pegs. This wasnt some fancy display, it was a set of working guns. We dont normally pack in the house. If you are armed, Id appreciate you hanging it up here. I carry at home, Bandy said. No permit for here. I do have weapons in the truck, though. Thats fine. They took a few steps across the polished floor of the front room. Magdalene! Bob called quietly through a door, We will be in the study. Bandy heard a womans voice answer. Yes, dear. Ill be in shortly. Show the gentleman the washroom. Oh. Yes, Bob replied, to Bandy, not Magdalene. Right through there. Bob was waiting a couple minutes later when Bandy came out of the bathroom, standing by another open door. When Bob turned and went into the room, Bandy followed. It was a warm room, built with polished wood and furnished with polished wood and heavy leather furniture.

Bandy took one of the button tufted leather club chairs in front of the massive desk while Bob took the desk chair. Bandy caught a slight wince on Sheridans face when he sat down and thought, Back problems. Bob did not waste any time. Just what has Ana-Bella told you of this situation with Angus? Well, sir, she told me that Mr. Longhammer has become interested in preparing for a possible future full of potential disasters. That a local militia type gang has been pressuring him to provide them a base of operations and the ways and means to essentially become the dominant force in this area in the event of a really major situation where normal channels of authority are no longer effective. Sheridan leaned back in the chair and tented his fingers. I suppose she does understand the situation a bit better than I gave her credit for, he said. Magdalene, carrying a tray with a coffee and tea service came into the room just as Bob spoke. Bandy was on his feet immediately and took the tray to place it on the desk. Yes, she does, Bob. I know you believe Angus will snap out of this phase as you put it, but I agree with Ana-Bella that there is a real danger. Bob sighed. Yes. Yes. I agree now. But what to do about it? Angus is scared now, worried about his family. He wouldnt tell me, but I think there were some implications, if not outright threats, that if he didnt follow through with what they wanted, his family and business might be in danger. That is not good, Sir, Bandy said. He quickly added, Tea, when Magdalene asked which he preferred. He took the cup when

Magdalene poured it and shook his head at the offer of lemon, milk, honey, or sugar. If they are willing to push the law to the limits now, they will have no compunction about doing whatever they want if there is no law to even try and corral them. The Sheriff is doing all she can to put a stop to the group. But this is a state and county that holds firmly with the Second Amendment, and she is between a rock and a hard place. There is nothing wrong with people owning and practicing with firearms, but there is something wrong with people that are planning to use force against law-abiding citizens, especially in times of trouble. She has support in trying to resolve the situation, but the militia also has some theoretical support, too, in general principle. I dont doubt that if something would happen, those supporting the militia verbally would quickly change their minds. But that would be too late. Bandy sipped the tea for a moment as Bob took his coffee and did the same. Magdalene had taken the chair beside Bandy and she was drinking tea, like Bandy. A few seconds of silence and then Bandy spoke again. It could come down to that, Im afraid. Having to wait for something to happen is very disconcerting, but doing anything to the group now could get us in more trouble than the militia gets in. Exactly as I described, Magdalene said. Bob sighed again and Magdalene continued. Which means that people are going to be at much greater risk, over and above any risks that a breakdown would cause, if something does happen. And there are no doubts in my mind that we would be a major target here, Bob said. He straightened in the chair and put the cup on its

saucer. I will not put my family at great physical risk, even to help Angus. So part of the solution has to be protection for my family and the ranch. I had not thought of things in this light much before Angus began bringing up the subject of survival in difficult times, but this ranch would be one of the key facilities to maintain and feed the area population if food cant be brought in. Angus feels the same way about his place. Thats what go t him so involved with the militia. At first he was just looking for some information on how to prepare. And then, when the leader of the militia suggested that they, the militia, become the enforcement arm for Angus operation, Angus fell for it. Slightly, I must say, and quickly realized the dangers. But it was too late. The militia has a foothold in his life now, and knows enough about him and his family to put on the pressure. Really complicates things, Bandy mused. He thought for a few more moments before asking, He has a home place, in addition to the business location? Bob nodded and Magdalene spoke. It is a beautiful house on a large, very nice piece of property not too far from here. But it is just pretty much a normal house. I do know he put in a generator and has bought some supplies and such, and made arrangements to build some type of disaster shelter. Hes been holding off on building it, Bob said, picking up where Magdalene left off, ever since the militia leader started making demands on how it was to be built. Angus was really Gung Ho initially, one he got the survivalist bug, to get something done, since he thinks things are going bad quickly. But now he doesnt want to make it easy for the militia to take it over.

I see. So the militia wants something suited to a raiding lifestyle, while Angus and you and your family want something to protect yourselves, but to also allow you to help the community in times of need. That pretty close? Bandy asked. Bob looked rather surprised, after thinking about it, but Magdalene had immediately said, Yes. I suppose that is what I would like to see. I thought Angus was drifting a little off the deep end at first, but Im seeing what he was talking about happening, and the very presence of the militia is a sure sign that things would be dangerous, even in an otherwise difficult but more or less benign event. All three looked over when Ana-Bella walked into the room. She looked at Bandy and said, You came! Thank you! Im beginning to see what you see in this man, Magdalene said. I believe he might be able to come up with a solution to help. Still not quite the legend you created, Bob said, But I do like the way he thinks. Oh, Dad! You just dont like any man being interested in me. And vice versa. Now that made Bandy feel good. And he smiled, bringing a broader one to Ana-Bellas that both Magdalene and Bob noted. Magdalene with a small smile of her own, and Bob a slightly sour look, but only for an instant. Youve come up with a plan? Ana-Bella asked, walking over to the desk and leaning a trim hip against it.

Im afraid not, Bandy said immediately. Your mother and father were filling me in on what the situation was, in addition to what you told me. Im getting an inkling of an idea. But Bandy looked from Ana-Bella to Bob. But it could be somewhat expensive, a bit time consuming, put the family and place in more danger than it might be otherwise, and some elements of it are bordering on being illegal. I dont like the greater danger part, Bob replied. The other doesnt bother me. As long as it works. It would mean working with Mr. Longhammer and getting him to start doing things that are going to upset the militia if, or more likely when, they find out what it is that he will be doing. It would put his family at more risk, too. Hes ready to send them away for a while, Bob said. You didnt tell me that, Magdalene said. It was just something he was considering. He didnt want me to mention it. He hasnt, or hadnt, when we discussed it, even mentioned it to June. Oh, Magdalene said. June wont go for it. The kids, probably, but she wont run. It would be so much easier for this to work if all unnecessary people were out of harms way for the duration, wouldnt you say, Hawkins? Bob asked. Dont put him on the spot, Dad, Ana-Bella said. Im not leaving, and once Mother has her say, she isnt going, either. I cant

believe June would leave, other than to protect the kids. And they are old enough to be on their own for a while if needs be. Bob didnt like it. Wife and daughter were standing together on the situation. And he knew he wouldnt like it with them gone, even if safer, if safer they would be. All right. That discussion is over. Up to June and Angus to decide for themselves. You are a wise man, Dear, Magdalene said. Ana-Bella grinned, but Bandy quickly hid his behind the cup of tea. Humph! Bob looked over at Bandy again. So what is this plan of yours? Id rather not say at the moment. Id like to talk to Mr. Longhammer, get a good look at his business and home, and look this place over in terms of defense. Ill have something to give you and Mr. Longhammer before I leave after Thanksgiving. Again Bob didnt particularly like it, but again he didnt protest other than with a look. Mother, Dad, Im tired. Im going to lie down for a w hile before supper. I pushed to get here as soon as I could. But Ill be fine to help with Thanksgiving preparations after supper. Ana-Bella looked over at Bandy. You need some help with your bags before I go up? I still think I should go into

Three firm looks shut him up. No. I can manage the bags. Thank you. Okay. Follow me up. Ill show you the room youll be using and then you can get your gear. The two left Magdalene and Bob in the study to have their own discussion. Bandy wished Ana-Bella had let him go up the stairs first. Going up behind her was pleasant, but disconcerting. But she was all business. She showed him a small room, with a bathroom just down the hall. Pretty much just be you using this bathroom, so spread your things out if you want. She started to turn away, but hesitated and turned back. Bandy? Bandy tilted his head in question. Im so glad you came. Thank you. She was in his arms for a hard hug, and then gone before Bandy could react. Deciding to keep his thoughts off Ana-Bella and on the situation at hand, Bandy went down to get his gear, including his laptop computer. He stopped in the study for a moment, finding Bob there alone, to get the Wi-Fi connection instructions so he could get on the internet for some research. Son, seriously, do you think my family will be safe? Bob asked suddenly, the look on his face tearing at Bandys heart. Bob was really afraid of what might happen. I do, Sir. I intend to see that they are, just like you.

Bob nodded and Bandy went on up to the room. He was going to be a very busy person for a few days.

Options Are Good Chapter 3 Bandys offer to help with the Thanksgiving preliminaries that evening was declined and he spent the late afternoon with Bob, looking over the ranch in detail. He could tell Bob was curious about the notes Bandy was taking, but he didnt want to discuss them until he had time to analyze them. Bob Sheridan had good people working for him. Things werent great for defense, but they werent terrible. Especially if the defensive shelter and other changes Bandy was beginning to envision were acceptable to Bob and his family. After a quiet supper, with the conversation mostly centered around Ana-Bellas last few runs and the operation of the ranch, Bandy joined the family in the study. Ana-Bella and Magdalene were both reading, and Bob, like Bandy, was on a computer. There was the occasional interruption as the public service band scanner broke squelch with some type of activity and everyone stopped to listen. There was a little chatter on the ranchs radio system, but not very much. A bit before nine, Bandy spoke to Bob. Sir, I will send over some links for you to check into, if youll give me your e-mail or Skype address. Yes. Of course. A minute or so later and Bandy was sending a series of links to websites that Bandy wanted Bob to look at. Ana-Bella put her book down and went to watch over her fathers shoulder as he began to open the various websites and check them out. Honey, if you would get your computer, perhaps Bandy will send you the links, Bob finally said, after Ana-Bella stopped him, pointed out something, or suggested he click on this or that link several times.

Of course, Bandy said. Ana-Bella grinned and stood up straighter. But it wont aggravate Dad as much. But it sure would be better for my back. Ill be back in a couple of minutes. Just as shed said, Ana-Bella was back shortly with her own laptop. After another minute or two to get it up, running, and connected to the Wi-Fi, Bandy was sending her the same links he had sent her father. Either of you Id rather wait on questions about what to do until I have a better plan laid out. That should be Saturday night. But if you have general questions about something on the websites, feel free to ask. Bob immediately asked, People are actually paying this much for being prepared? Especially for shelters! Yes, Sir. Some do spend large amounts. Into the millions. Not necessary for most people and certainly not affordable for the majority, but the capability is out there for those that want it. For a price. Hmm. I know Angus dropped a bundle on that load that AnaBella picked up for him. It doesnt include a couple of key items, either, Bandy said. Expensive ones. He said he had everything he needed but labor and concrete, Bob protested. Almost everything, I believe was the quote, Bob, Magdalene said without looking up from her book.

Perhaps it was, Bob admitted. There is more than one way to skin a cat, Bandy said carefully. Options are good, and there are plenty of them. Some better than others, some more expensive, some less. All depends on the ultimate goal and budget. Well, Bob said, looking first at his wife and then his daughter, The budget will be there. Though I cant speak for Angus, I think hes willing to do almost anything to get out of this mess. I hate to say it, Sir, but it is almost better that it has come up now. Forewarned is forearmed. I suspect if they are this overt now, they would be a real danger in the PAW, especially if no one knew of their plans. They would come out of nowhere and do their thing, before anyone could react. Now, at least two people with the means to take action know. And will be prepared for not only just what is going on, but for what could happen in the PAW. What is PAW? asked Magdalene, looking up from her book. Post-Apocalyptic World, Ana-Bella said before Bandy could respond. She looked over at Bandy. Ive been doing some research, she added with a smile. Bandy smiled back. You pick up quick. Fortunately I found a preppers acronym list that has covered all of the acronyms Ive run across. Preppers use a lot of acronyms. Bandy laughed. Yes, I suppose we do.

There was silence again as the four went back to what each was doing. Bob was obviously disappointed when Bandy didnt offer up any additional details before all were ready to go to bed, but didnt protest. The next morning Bandy was up even earlier than usual, due to being in unfamiliar surroundings. He almost just stayed in his room, to work on the computer, but went ahead and showered and then dressed in a nice pair of slacks and dress shirt. He headed downstairs to get something out of the truck. When he came back in he found Magdalene already at work in the kitchen on Thanksgiving Dinner. Is there anything I can help with, Mrs. Sheridan? Bandy asked, expecting a quick negative. But Magdalene surprised him. Sure, she said. Wash up and you can help me with chopping some vegetables and things. My arthritis is acting up a little this morning. Seems cold. It is quite chilly out, Bandy said, setting his attach case at the end of a kitchen counter. He washed his hands at one of the two kitchen sinks and took over the chopping chores Magdalene had been doing. Oh, the house is quite warm enough. I just get a chill from time to time lately over the way things are going. I understand, Bandy said. I think you probably do, Magdalene replied. Would you care for some tea? That might help warm me up this morning. Yes. Please.

Magdalene set about making the tea, and finding out a few things about Bandy as she guided the conversation skillfully, and subtly, about Bandy and his life. Bandy wasnt unaware of what she was doing, but she was easy to talk to, and he decided that her knowing some of his background would be better in the future than her not knowing. So he followed along, and let out a few minor secrets. But when Magdalene asked about his military service, and she saw his reaction, she quickly changed the subject. But there was something about his military service that bothered him more than a little. She decided speculating about it wouldnt do any good. It would probably be something that Ana-Bella might get from him, but Magdalene doubted that she could herself. At least right now. Ana-Bella came in then and quickly ushered Bandy out of the kitchen, taking over what he was now doing. Sorry I overslept, Mother, she said, watching Bandy pick up the attach case to head for the study. Hed barely been at it fifteen minutes when Bob came into the study. Youre up early, Bob told Bandy. He seemed pleased. Im a fairly early riser anyway. Being away from home I tend to get up even earlier. Im rather that way myself. Always wanting to check things out before really needing to do anything. Been getting up early all my life. Have to, working a ranch. Bandy smiled when Ana-Bella came into the study a bit later to announce that breakfast was ready. Shed been in a robe earlier, but had changed into a nice skirt and blouse, suitable for the days activities.

Bandy asked to help do the cleanup after breakfast, but was again ushered out of the kitchen. It turned out just as well, for Angus Longhammer, his wife June, and their two children showed up shortly after Bandy got back on the computer, with Bob watching ESPN, being a huge football fan, there in the study. There were quick introductions, and June joined Magdalene and Ana-Bella in the kitchen. Fifteen year old Desiree asked for and received permission to go out to the barns to get in a ride before Thanksgiving Dinner. She apparently knew her way around, for neither Angus nor Bob offered to take her out. Angus, Junior, sixteen, and the spitting image of his father, in features and in size, stayed with Angus, Bob, and Bandy in the study. Junior, we have a few things to discuss, Bob said before Junior could sit down. I was going to turn down the sound until the games start. Junior looked first at his father, and then Bandy. Its about the problem Id like to stay. Bob looked a bit reluctant, and Angus even more so, but Bandy, seeing the intense look on the young mans face quickly said, I dont mind. Everyone is going to need to be brought up to speed. I have a feeling that Angus might have some sources of information we might not be privy to. Just call me Junior, Junior said. Everyone does. Bandy nodded. I dont know, son, Angus said softly, not wanting to hurt the boys feelings, but not sure the young man was up to being involved in what they would be talking about.

Dad, I know some of what is going on. That Colin I dont like him, and I dont like the way he and a couple of his group look at Mother and Desiree. I liked getting the shooting practice at first, but they talk really coarse, and are very disrespectful of women. Angus eyes narrowed. They said things about them? Crude things. Colin laughed it off when he saw me get upset, saying it was just guys being guys. But I think, given the opportunity, they would more than likely hurt them both, if you know what I mean. We know what you mean, Bandy said. Angus was livid. He knew his family was at risk, due to something hed done, but Juniors comments really brought it home. I am not going to let anything happen to them, Junior. Im not either, Junior replied. Id rather be in on it from the beginning. One of the militia guys younger brother is in a couple of classes with me. Hes just like the others, and is always in trouble, but he likes to tell me what the group is doing and how they are going to take over when the well when things get really bad. Like in a war or something. Bob, do you mind if Bob cut Angus off. Hes almost a man. He does probably need to be in on this. Im not so sure about Desiree or June You know Magdalene is going to know everything you know and do, Angus said with a laugh. And Ana-Bella is like her mother. And they are both like June. Id like to keep it low profile around Desiree, but Im not sure we can.

Sir, Bandy finally said, I think everyone at risk should be made fully aware of the risks. They will need to be on guard against all sorts of things. Not just in the distant future, but now, before anything major happens. Shes only fifteen! Angus said the fear visible in his face. But shes tough, Junior said. Just like Mom. You think she should be part of this? I was thinking more of sending her up to Sophias. She would hate that, Junior immediately replied. Just like I would. If this family is in danger, we should face it together. Angus sighed, leaned back in the chair, and closed his eyes for a moment. Yes. Yes, of course. But allow me to have my innocent and unsuspecting daughter for a bit longer. Not that unsuspecting, Junior said. I clued her in about Boots Thats the guy in my class. That she should be careful about him. And she wanted to know why. And well we talked a little about what is going on. Shes scared, too. Man, I have so let my family down, Angus said, on the verge of actually wringing his hands. So she does know a little of what is going on? Bandy asked Junior. He could tell Angus was distraught at the situation. Bandy would try to give him a little time to get back in focus. Junior nodded. Bob had turned the TV sound down and the four were totally ignoring it. What can you tell me of the militia group?

Dad probably knows more But Boots is a real braggart. Hes told me a lot that Colin might not have told Dad. Bandy was relieved to see Angus come out of his blue funk. What do you know, Junior? All three men were more than a little surprised at the amount of knowledge Junior had been given by, and Bandy suspected, extracted from, Boots. Junior began to reel off a list of equipment and supplies, and weapons and ammunition that was verging on staggering. Angus was shaking his head. He never told me he had half of that! What else did this hooligan tell you? Affirming Bandys earlier thought, Junior said, I sort of needled him a little, to get him to describe some of the things they have planned. He mostly talked about what he was going to do to some of the girls and women at school It was disgusting. But also about how they are going to take out the Sheriff and her people The Mayor and council Take over the gun stores right off the bat. Then the fuel depot and Wal-Mart and all the grocery stores. And the banks and coin shops. They want to control all the food and fuel, and want cash and gold and silver. Bandy asked, Does this Colin have any idea th at Boots is telling you these things? And do you think he might just be shining you on, to make himself seem important? I thought about that last part. But I dont think he has the imagination to come up with the things hes told me on his own. Im sure everything is what hes heard the others talk about.

And I dont think Colin even suspects. Boots gets a little spooked when his name comes up. He is afraid of him. Even said his brother is afraid of him. Well, I would suggest you keep a pretty low profile around Boots now, Bandy said, looking over at Angus. Take any information he offers, but dont try digging up any more. I think I can No, Junior. Hawkins here is right, Angus said. I dont even like the idea of you associating with that boy at all. But it would be a dead giveaway if you just cut him off completely. You are, and can be, an asset on this, but I dont want you risking anything. Not this early in the game. It might be bad enough in the future. Hes right, Bandy said. Now is the time to watch and see. No overt moves or actions until I find out more about this Colin. He makes a lot of Youtube videos, Junior offered then. About how to attack the establishment, he puts it, and defend against oppression. Hes a real bigot and very prejudiced. Okay. Ill check that out. Now what can you tell me about any training they do, any property or locations they have or use, and just how skilled they are? Well, Junior said, looking thoughtful again. They use the county range for most of the basic shooting practice. But one of Colins uncles has a small farm way out near the county line. Hes old and I guess senile or has Alzheimers from what Boots has said. Doesnt really know what Colin and the others do out there. That being? Bandy asked when Junior paused.

Junior lowered his voice slightly. Thats where they do the kill training Boots bragged about once. He shut up real quick, but I had the impression that is where ambushes and automatic weapons practice were done. Bob looked outraged. Those Those hooligans have automatic weapons? His worried eyes went to Bandy. They are an additional threat, Sir. But depending on ammunition stocks, the actual types and numbers of weapons, and skills training, probably not as much as you might think. We can get into that later. But for now it is enough to know they have them and are training with them. Which means they do have at least some stocks of ammunition. Not a lot, Mr. Hawkins, Junior said. Before he could continue, Bandy said, Just make it Bandy, Junior. Yes, sir Okay Bandy. But they are always complaining about getting enough ammunition. They always want more than they have. Angus cleared his throat. When everyone Bob, Bandy, and Junior looked over at him, he had an almost distraught look on his face. I really screwed up there, he said. I bought several cases of ammunition for them at a gun show some time ago. Im sorry. Dad, it is okay, Junior was quick to say. I think they burned through all of that in just days. Because a week after that when I asked Boots about going shooting again, he said they couldnt waste the ammunition. Angus looked relieved. But did add quietly, But they were still able to get some practice they wouldnt have otherwise.

Water under the bridge, Mr. Longhammer, Bandy said, bringing grateful looks from both Bob and Angus. He looked over at Junior. About how many are in the militia, Junior? Do you know? And do you know of any other supporters, other than the actual militia members? Junior shook his head. Im not real sure. I think there are only about twenty. Maybe twenty-five members. There are a couple that Boots said the Sheriff picked up. Illegally, according to him. And at least three travel for their work and arent always around. As for other supporters I just dont know. Colin looks kinda smug sometimes when something like that comes up. Boots, too. He implies that the militia has some powerful people involved. But he really does brag a great deal. Junior looked over at his father. Dad? What do you think? Ive only been around Colin a little. Angus sighed. Yes. Too much. And me even worse. He has implied that I we are only one of several people he has lined up on his side. I dont know whether I believe him or not. Hes put a lot of pressure on me to get the shelter built. To his specifications. And wants me to get quite a few things, in quantity for him and his militia. And wants me to pull my political and financial support from Sheriff Broadhearst. Julie-Anne shes been a friend for a long time. She is good people and a good Sheriff... I feel like Ive let her down. I havent done anything overt, but I havent supported her like I would have in the past. Youve been more than generous with your support, Bob protested.

I know, Angus replied. But nothing like you lately. You were there for the meeting a month ago. I gave her excuses and didnt show up. You said you had a shipment you had to check on, Bob said. Oh, I did. But anyone in the office could have handled it. Colin was standing in the office when I got the call asking me to come to the meeting. Ah was Bobs only response. Angus looked over at Bandy, a pleading look on his face. Can you tell me anything anything at all that will keep my family safe and get this menace put away? I am working on a plan, Mr. Longhammer. If we can take a look at your place tomorrow, and I can do some evaluations, refine the plan a bit more, and I can have a real answer by Saturday afternoon. Angus sighed. That will have to do. Im not sure how Im going to explain all this to June and and Desiree. Turning quickly in the chair, when he heard Desiree ask, Explain what, Daddy? Angus closed his eyes for a moment and then reopened th em. In a few minutes. Would you see if Magdalene and Ana-Bella can spare June for a few minutes? Of course, Daddy. Desiree started to turn to leave, but paused long enough to ask, This is about that group Junior told me about, isnt it?

Angus could only nod. He turned back around in his chair and sighed. Itll be alright, my friend, Bob said softly. Angus nodded. I sure hope so, he replied, just as softly. It was only a few moments before Desiree returned, not only with June, but Magdalene and Ana-Bella as well. Well Dear, I take it you are ready to get this problem out in the open. June went over to the chair where Angus was sitting and put one hand on his shoulder and squeezed gently. Im glad. Angus looked sheepish, and a little relieved. I know I should have None of that, Angus, June said firmly. That is all in the past. What we must concern ourselves with is the future. She let her hand slip away and went to the wide brown leather sofa and sat down, to be joined by Magdalene and Desiree. Ana-Bella leaned against the side of her fathers desk and crossed her arms. Fill us in on whole thing, Angus. Where we stand and what we are going to do about it. Rather haltingly Angus began to go over the discussion that the four men had engaged in just minutes ago. Junior added a couple of clarifications. Ana-Bella was watching Bandy out of the corners of her eyes as he watched Angus do the explanation. She could see the small cheek motions and the way his eyes changed ever so slightly as Angus spoke of the different things. She looked over at Angus as he wrapped the explanation up.

And with Bob and Magdalene and Ana-Bellas help, plus this young mans, Angus nodded at Bandy, They We are sure we can deal with this and get us out of the spot Ive put us in with the smallest amount of damage as possible. June studied Bandy for a moment before she spoke. And just how are we going to go about this? Not for one second will I entertain any suggestion for me to leave the area. Desiree, perhaps Im staying, too! Mother, Father, and Brother all saw the expression on Desirees face and realized that they would have a literal fight on their hands if they tried to convince Desiree to leave. Junior smiled slightly, but both Angus and June frowned. But already in their minds they accepted the fact that the family would face it all together. Ill leave those decisions up to the families, Bandy said diplomatically. For the moment, as Ive told Mr. Longhammer, Mr. Sheridan, and Junior, I need a bit more information and a day or so to develop and present a plan that I think will make sure that the Militia will not be a threat to any of you, or anyone else, for that matter. I know everyone is anxious, but I want to make sure Ive covered all the bases before I lay things out completely. And I guess I should bring this up, since it didnt come up earlier There will be some expenses involved, and even some lifestyle changes to make the plan Im working on effective. Angus waved a hand. I will put up whatever it takes to see to it that this group stays safe and sound. Oh no you dont, Angus! Bob chuckled slightly. No check grabbing this time. You and I will split the costs. Everything that young

Hawkins here has shown and told me makes me believe there are many things I need to do to ensure a safe future, regardless of this Colin and his militia. I realize now that some of the uncomfortable feelings Ive had lately are due to the situation in this country The whole world, actually. Time for me to stand up and take care of business I should have already seen coming. It was Ana-Bella that spoke first. This affects all of us. Were in this together and will deal with it together. Our two families have been working together for five generations, all the way back to Georgia. Well said, Ana-Bella, said June. I agree totally. We might have started the process, and brought your family into it, but we will do everything we can to make sure everyone in both families gets through this unscathed. Ana-Bella noticed the look on Bandys face at Junes last statement. He obviously believed that getting through unscathed might not be possible. She felt a shiver go down her back. I agree totally, Magdalene said. She stood up gracefully and headed for the door of the study. Dinner will be ready in about thirty minutes. That broke up the meeting, as such, and the other women left to see to the dinner. Bob took Angus and Junior out to see one of the new stud horses hed just acquired. Bandy declined to go with them and opened up his laptop and began typing. A few minutes later Ana-Bella stepped into the room and simply stayed silent and watched him work for several seconds.

He suddenly looked up and saw her watching him. Bandy turned slightly red. I guess I should wash up. Get ready for that wonderful smelling Thanksgiving dinner. Still a few minutes, Ana-Bella said, stepping the rest of the way into the study. You are worried about some of us getting hurt, arent you, Bandy? Bandy knew there was no point in lying. Ana-Bella would see right through it. Yes. Yes, I am. This will get dangerous at some point. I aim to see that no one does get hurt, but I cant guarantee it. No one will ask you to, Bandy. And Ill make sure the others do understand your concerns. I can Better if I do it, Ana-Bella said, interrupting Bandy. I think it will hit home better if I let my fears be known to them. Coming from you they might think you are just being cautious. Dont worry about that part of it. If you really think so I do. Ana-Bella turned around when her name was called. As she moved back to the door of the study she told Bandy, About five more minutes. Bandy nodded and began to shut down his computer.

Options Are Good Chapter 4 Everyone was able to put the Militia out of their minds and enjoy the dinner. Despite Ana-Bellas attempts to dissuade her parents, and even Angus and June, when the four rather keyed on Bandy and finding out all they could about him. And his interest in Ana-Bella. Bandy was able to sidestep the one question that came up about his time in the service, but Ana-Bella and Magdalene both saw the way his eyes changed slightly and the momentary pinched look on his face. But Magdalene quickly changed the subject and Bandy was right back in the flow of conversation, handling the parents and family friends of the woman he knew he was already in love with smoothly, and with great patience. This time, apparently a tradition in the household, the males cleared the table, put away the left overs, and loaded up the dishwasher while the ladies retired to the living room for a few minutes to rest up before they tackled the rest of the cleanup. The men and women switched places, with the large entertainment center TV now on with a football game on screen. Ana-Bella and the other ladies found seats when the last tasks were done in the kitchen and they joined the guys in the living room. Bandy was amused at the ferocity of the antics of the group during the hotly contested game. He watched sports, but was not really what one would call a big sports fan. But both the Longhammer and Shepard families were die hard sports fans, especially of football, and each one seemed to have a different favorite team that they rooted for quite vocally. Bandy excused himself shortly after the light supper and went up to his room early to work on the plan, while the others stayed up and

visited until late. The Longhammers had all brought overnight bags and stayed the night, as they often did alternately on various holidays. But all were up on Friday morning, getting ready for the big shopping day for some, with Bandy to go with Angus for the morning to look over his properties, as theyd arranged to do the night before. Apparently another tradition the two families had was the guys fixed the breakfast while the ladies got things ready for the shopping run into Oklahoma City. Not used to so much activity, Bandy was a bit relieved when he and Angus left, just shortly before the rest headed out. They were in Bandys truck, and other than Angus giving Bandy directions to the Longhammer Ranch, the discussion centered on the truck. Bandy was proud of the vehicle and answered all of Angus questions about the whats, whys, and wherefores Bandy had done with it. You are really into this survival stuff, arent you? Angus asked as they drove up the long drive to the Longhammer Ranch main house. Much like the Shepard place, the Longhammer Ranch, though much smaller, was a beautiful sight to behold in the crisp, cool air of the morning after Thanksgiving. And like Bob was with his, Angus was proud of his place and eagerly showed Bandy around. He was as curious as he could be as Bandy took extensive notes during the tour. But he held his tongue. Hed agreed to wait for Bandys full report and plan presentation the next evening at the Shepards. Bandy saw Angus suddenly stiffen as they walked back around to the front of the house. There was a pickup truck pulling up the long drive. It was raucous loud, the exhaust barely muffled, with loud music coming from speakers through the open windows of the cab of the truck.

Thats Colins truck, Angus muttered quietly when the truck slid to a stop on the concrete pad between the garage proper and the gravel driveway. And Colin, he added when a man climbed out of the highly lifted truck. Colin jumped down from the large side step of the truck, hitched up his camo pants, and turned to face Angus and Bandy. Bandy felt the hair on the back of his neck lift as soon as Colin turned and their eyes met. There was instant animosity that Bandy tried to control on his part. Colin didnt even try. Who is this, Longhammer? What is he doing here? I want him off the property. Right now. We have some things to discuss. Colin cut his eyes to Angus, but they went right back to Bandy. Bandy held his gaze steady, but make sure to keep Colins right hand, down by the holstered gun on his right hip, in his peripheral vision. Bandy knew just how fast he could get to his own gun, in an inside the waistband holster in the small of his back. It would be close. Very close. If Colin made the move. Bandy was ready to end it all right here, right now. Colin was a rabid animal, and he needed to be put down. But Colin blinked. And that was enough. His gaze shifted back to Angus, but before he could speak, Bandy said, Ill be on my way. I know you need to meet your family in a few minutes. Bandy stressed that just slightly. Both to give Angus an excuse to leave quickly, and as a not quite stated warning to Colin that Angus better show up soon. Or else.

Walking wide around his own truck, so he could keep his eyes on Colin, Bandy went past the tailgate and up to the drivers side door. He used his left hand to open the door, and slid onto the seat, his right hand going to the gun under his jacket. He held it beside his right thigh, reaching through the steering wheel with his left hand to press the engine start button. Only when he was ready did Bandy release the handgun and reach for the gearshift. He was gone quickly, making a wide circle on the paved area in front of the garage, his eyes still on Colin. He watched in the rearview mirror as Colin angrily stomped up to Longhammer. Bandy stopped at the end of the driveway, pulling over on the shoulder of the road, behind some construction equipment parked nearby for some roadwork in the area. He stopped there and waited. He was becoming a bit worried until he saw Colins fancy rig come barreling down the driveway, make a sliding turn onto the highway, and head off in the other direction. A quick look up the driveway and Bandy spotted another vehicle coming along much more sedately. Pulling back out onto the shoulder of the road, Bandy waited until Angus drove up and stopped next to him. The windows went down on both vehicles. You okay? Bandy asked Angus. Angus, despite the deep tan, was pale. He is going to kill you, Hawkins. He said so right to my face. Told me that Id better start working on some of the projects he has set for me, or that you wouldnt be the only one dead. He was talking about my family, Hawkins. My family! Not me. My family! Easy, Angus, Bandy said quietly. I am not going to let that psychopath kill me, or anyone else. Which projects did he insist that you start on?

The shelter, for one. And more ammunition. And start a recall effort against Sheriff Broadhearst. He wants Julie-Anne out of office and discredited. Well, give him some of what he wants. Start on the shelter. Youve shown me what you had in mind and what Colin wanted changed. Which were actually some ideas I would have incorporated into a shelter like that anyway. Ill have some additional recommendations tomorrow evening. As to the ammunition, just start trickling it in. You have the very good excuse that large quantities are hard to come by. And I honestly believe that you should meet with the Sheriff and explain what is going on. You We are going to need her informed and on our side when this all breaks open. Im not sure I can face her Angus said sadly. Ive really let her down. Talk to her, Angus. I have a feeling, from what everyone has said about her, that she will understand. And to be willing to help, to the limit she can as an officer of the law. Now, are you okay to join the families? Yeah. Yeah. And Ill fill them in on what happened. If were going to do this together, I am going to have to stop keeping things to myself. That is good, Angus. Ill see you later, at the Sheridans. The two put their trucks into gear and drove off, Angus pulling away as Bandy kept a much slower pace, keeping his eyes peeled for a possible ambush by Colin. He didnt think it would happen, but Bandy

wasnt one to ignore possibilities. Bandy went back to the Sheridan Ranch and let himself in with the secondary security code that Ana-Bella had insisted he take. He worked the rest of the afternoon on the plan, working more and more quickly as things jelled in his mind. Dinner was a bit subdued at first, Angus having told the others what had happened. Bandy caught Ana-Bella looking at him with concern several times. He decided that Angus had probably told all of them what Colin had said about killing him. And from the initial subdued talk, he had also told them the threat made against June, Junior, and Desiree. Bandy excused himself as quickly after the dinner as was polite and went upstairs again. Bandy didnt see Ana-Bella watch him go up the stair case, just as she didnt see the others watching her. Fortunately for everyones sake, the little group all headed for the living room before Ana-Bella could turn around and see them watching. Ana-Bella brushed away the tears that had blurred her vision before Bandy had reached the top of the stairs. Bandy worked late into the night, not turning in until almost one in the morning. But he was up at his usual time, and not even Ana-Bella could tell he hadnt slept much. He talked quietly to the others about the news that all had seen while getting up and getting ready for the day. Yet another terrorist attack. Only there were some loud accusations that it was not an independent terrorist group, but a state sponsored and state executed operation. It came right on the heels of the announcement the previous day by China that they would be drastically reducing their financial holdings in United States Dollars. Less than twenty-four hours later and three major refineries on the Gulf and West Coasts were burning out of control. There was a group claiming responsibility, but they were considered very small time, and some in the DHS were admitting that they didnt think the group did it.

No one in authority openly pointed a finger at China, but more than a few unnamed, highly placed sources in Washington were implying it, if not outright saying it. What do they hope to accomplish, if it is the Chinese? June asked, looking more angry than sad about the damage and loss of life. Same thing as always, Mrs. Longhammer, Bandy said when none of the others spoke up. Power. Control. The weaker the US is, and the more turmoil there is in the country, the more likely they are to be able to take advantage of the situation and get even more control than they already have here. What do you mean, Mr. Hawkins? asked Desiree. How can China ever hope to control us? My Current Affairs teacher says it is all just a group of right wing religious conservatives that are saying things about China because they dont like their religion. Bandy had tried his best to get her to call him Bandy, the way Junior did, but her manners had been drilled into her for fifteen years, and Bandy was a lot older than she, so he got a Mister and last name. Not Bandy. Besides. She had a tendency to giggle every time she did try to say it. Not about to get started on the liberal educational system, Bandy kept his remarks strictly about the question Desiree asked. Well, I believe, based on many factors that I have researched in depth, that China has designs on the entire world. They have started maneuvering in the western Pacific and Indochina already. They do not want interference in their plans. I believe those plans include taking over India, Indochina, Southeast Asia, the entire western Pacific, including Japan and Korea, and eventually Australia.

They are polluting their country with the military industrialization they are doing, air, water, and land; will not be able to grow enough food for the population in the near future since, though the country is huge, the arable land percentage is low; and there is a large discrepancy between male and female babies being born. Many of the young men are wanting wives and have no options. To continue their growth, they will need additional food production land; and additional resources of all types, from food to strategic materials. Once those goals are accomplished, they will reconsolidate, resettle much of their population to assume leadership positions in the countries, and pull resources out of all the newly conquered nations. With the final intention of taking first all of Africa, and then South America. But we wont let them do that! Desiree exclaimed. I mean Maybe Maybe some of the Indonesian countries. Even Mr. Brathers says they are overstepping the bounds there, but that the UN will make them stop. But not Australia! It is just my belief, based on my research, lessons of history, and what is leaking out of China through unofficial sources that I hear about online. Only time will tell. Oh, Desiree replied quietly, as she thought about Bandys quiet, reasoned explanation, much different than Mr. Brathers often very vocal accusations about whom he thought was the cause of all the worlds problems. The conversation changed after that, no one, including Bandy, wanting to discuss what was happening while they finished their breakfast.

Bandy caught Angus as the breakfast dishes were being cleared away. Id like to get an in-depth look at the Equipment Dealership today. Who should I talk to there to arrange it? Well, Ill just go in and Bandy was shaking his head. No, Angus. Youre better off around family right now. Colin will expect it. If he has someone watching the place I do not want them to see us together again. It is too risky for you and your family. What about your risks? Angus was a little startled at the glint in Bandys eyes that was quickly cloaked with a simple nonchalant look. Im not worried, Bandy replied. But you should be. Thatll keep you alert and wary. My manager is out of town. I guess Ill call Terri. Shes probably the best one to show you around. She knows every inch of the place even better than I do. She was there when I took it over from my father when he retired, just before he died. Thats been fifteen years ago. Very good, Angus. Im going to get a couple items from my room before I go. Tell everyone Ill be back this evening to do the briefing. Angus nodded and watched Bandy climb the staircase rapidly. When he saw Ana-Bella enter the hallway he made himself scarce. Quickly. Bandy almost stopped on the stairs when he started down, seeing Ana-Bella talking to Magdalene in the hallway. But he marched straight

on down and was going to walk right past without speaking, but AnaBella was having none of that. Im going with you, Ana-Bella said before Bandy could decide what he would say. You dont even know where Im going! Sure I do. Youre going the same place I am, since I am going with you. Ana-Bella Thats not a good idea. Because Colin intends to kill you? No. Because he might kill you instead, before he tries to k ill me. Hes one that likes to torture his victims before he puts them out of their final misery. Killing someones loved ones while they look on is a favorite tactic of people or I should say, sub-human animals like him. Ana-Bella blanched. But No buts, Ana-Bella. You are keeping a low profile for a while, like it or not. I believe I have a handle on this and can resolve it fairly quickly. No more than three months, unless Im way off base. And the Chinese dont attack before then. Thats not funny! Ana-Bella nearly yelled. No. It wasnt. And Im sorry I said it. Desiree got me to thinking about that aspect of the world situation. Now, I need to go. By myself. Ill be back for the briefing this evening. Ana-Bella looked hard at Bandy, and then had him in a hard hug. Just be careful, she whispered in his ear before she let him go. When

Bandy turned toward the front door, he saw the whole group there watching. So did Ana-Bella. She looked at them for a moment as they looked at her. What? she asked. Without waiting for an answer, she turned and headed up the stairs. She had some thinking to do. Angus suddenly slapped Bob on the back lightly. Youll be having a son-in-law after this mess is cleared up, old son. Yeah. It was more of a grunt than a word, but, more clearly then, Bob said, Could do worse, I guess. Yes, she could, Magdalene said, taking her husbands arm. Come help me get some things ready for when he gets back. When Bandy reached Longhammer Equipment and Supply, he got the once over from a stout, gray-haired, very intense looking woman. Angus said to show you around. Why? What is going on? Hes not selling this place out from under me, is he? Bandy laughed, but not for long and very quietly. No, Maam. Mr. Longhammer isnt selling the place. Im just here to do a security walk around. He is thinking about upgrading the security. You know how things are in the country now. Young punks just out to vandalize to terrorists wanting to disrupt a community and its production capability. This could be a prime target. So he did decide to take my advice, Terri Xanderhaven said, with a broad smile. Ive been telling him for months that we would get hit at some point by that group of ruffians hanging around the county. Bunch of no good, beer guzzling, dirty, stinking, no accounts in their fancy trucks and loud stereos. Im sure they are the ones that have been doing all the mischief around the whole county.

Bandy concealed his surprise. Angus had not said anything about Terris request for additional security. It was possible that Colin had heard about the possibility and instructed Angus not to attempt anything. With a small smile on his face, Bandy replied, Well, well just see what we can do to eliminate some of the risks without being too obvious about it. Very good. No need to advertise anything, Terri said as they headed out of her office and into the large main building. Rather catch those hooligans than just keep them from showing up. Do the county a favor. And lend a hand to Julie-Anne. Shes my niece, once removed, and is doing a great job, but everyone can use some help from time to time. She has a lot on her plate at the moment. Again surprised, Bandy didnt let it show. He was looking around the huge showroom floor at the equipment. He wasnt too concerned about it, but the security of the building. There wasnt much to do about that huge expanse, but fortunately, three sides of the open space had offices or other rooms constructed, with two story sections along the two side walls because of the high roof line. Due to their height, only the big cotton pickers and a couple of other pieces of equipment could not be brought onto the showroom floor through the huge glass sliding doors that made up the front of the showroom. Terri quizzed Bandy almost incessantly as they toured the place, but took no umbrage when he just grunted a few times and took notes, switching to local gossip between questions. She seemed to realize that Bandy wasnt going to say anything about the security until it was installed, but her insatiable curiosity kept her asking anyway, when Bandy looked particularly interested or made a longer than normal note on his pad.

Finally, back in the huge front parking lot, Bandy asked Terri, Do you know if the county allows fences along the roadway? Sure they do. On private property. But the road easement is twice the width of the current road. Future plans for a four lane through here. The first section of parking slots in on the easement. Angus got a waiver for it when he decided to enlarge the place a few years ago. But no permanent structures can be constructed within I think it is thirty feet from the edge of the actual easement. We have plenty of room when they do the road, but right now Angus sponsors some events on the parking lot and we use the whole thing then. I see. That should really help the traffic through here when it happens, Bandy said as yet another car zoomed past. Thered barely been a minute, or less, between cars, and often there were several in a row, going both ways on the busy road. Bandy glanced at his watch. Well, Id better get back to my office and get these notes into the computer. Be glad to type them up for you, Terri immediately offered. Im very good typist, and very fast. Fastest the secretarial school ever had. Still hold the record. And Im almost as good now as I was at twentysix. Bandy didnt doubt her. But she wasnt going to con him into letting her see his notes. I just bet you were, he said with a smile. But I have to get back anyway for something else, too. Thank you very much for showing me around. Mr. Longhammer said you would be the best for the job. Terri preened a bit as they walked over to Bandys truck. Now that is the kind of truck to have, she said in appreciation. Not like

those showboats around here with all horsepower and speed and no brains behind the wheel. Bandy laughed, but made what he considered a getaway before Terri could delay him anymore. Everyone that saw him as he entered the Sheridan ranch house looked curious, but Bandy went straight up to his room and got busy. He had three hours to finalize his plan so he could present it to the two families. Everyone looked at him expectantly when he came down for dinner. Well? Ana-Bella asked after a few seconds. I have what I think is a workable plan, Bandy replied. It wont take too long to detail it after we eat. That seemed to satisfy everyone, except perhaps Angus and AnaBella. But neither said anything about it during the meal. The talk was centered around the operation of the Sheridan Ranch. There were two new colts in training and Desiree was enthusiastic in her praise of the animals and the employees working with them. One of the horses, once trained, would be hers for Christmas, though she didnt know it yet. Ana-Bella wasted no time in getting the cleanup done after dessert was finished; doing much of the work herself, as Magdalene, June, and Desiree went about things at their regular pace. Then they were all gathered in the study. Bandy had done a scheduled print run through the Wi-Fi network to the printer in the study, timed to do the printing during the meal. Junior, Bandy said as he opened up the computer and got it ready. Could you distribute the papers from the printer around to everyone. I think youll see what goes to each of you.

Bob, behind the desk, spun around in his chair and looked at the printer. He gathered up the stack of papers in the tray and handed them to Junior while asking Bandy, When did you do that? Just now, Bandy replied, during dinner. Wanted to have everything ready for the presentation. Bob was distracted when Junior handed him three of the sheets of paper. Everyone began reading immediately. Bandy was getting the files open on his computer when the questions started. Everyone in both families had several and all spoke at once. Bandy smiled and shook his head. Just let me go through the presentation and I will answer any questions not answered as I go through things. Bandy laid out his plan to an entranced audience. Most of the questions each of the members of the two families had were answered as Bandy talked. But not all. And there were things that one or another didnt particularly like and raised their objections when Bandy was finished. They talked late into the night, and Bandy finally had each one satisfied with their part in the plan, though a couple gave only reluctant agreement. Bandy was sure Ana-Bella would insist on talking to him about the plan in private when the group broke up and headed for the bedrooms. But she surprised him. She simply told him goodnight and left. Bandy followed a silent Bob up the stairs after he did the new nightly security check that Bandy had advised him to do.

At the top of the stairs, before Bob turned one way in the upstairs hallway, and Bandy the other, he stopped and asked Bandy. Hawkins, will this work? Will our families be safe? Sir, I intend to do everything I can to make sure of it. But I cant make any guarantees. I wont lie to you. The risks I talked about are real. But if you incorporate the procedures I outlined, I think you have the best chance of getting through this particular problem, and will be in good shape for any real disaster that might occur in the future. That is all I can ask, I suppose, Bob replied. But despite those words he suddenly added, But if there is ever a choice that must be made, make sure Ana-Bella makes it, no matter the fate of Magdalene or me. She is our future. I will do my best, Bandy said quietly. I now have a vested interest in doing so. Bob nodded and headed down the hallway. Bandy went the other way and was still a bit surprised when Ana-Bella did not show up at his door, wanting to talk. Everyone was quiet the next morning at breakfast. But Desirees enthusiasm quickly had the others smiling and talking about the upcoming Christmas play that her and Juniors high school was putting on in December. She was the leading lady and was excited about it. Ana-Bella left the breakfast cleanup to the others and silently helped Bandy get his gear down to his truck. Bandy had already said his good-byes to the others right after breakfast. He just could not think of anything to say to Ana-Bella as he opened the drivers side door to get behind the wheel of his truck. But Ana-Bella touched his shoulder, and broke her silence. She went into his arms when he opened them and they shared a hard hug.

You be careful, Bandy Hawkins. Now that Ive found you, I want you around a long time. I feel the same way, Ana-Bella. And I intend to be around a long time. You just be very careful about things. You and Desiree are going to be Colins primary targets, if when he realizes that Angus has turned fully against him. You can bet I will, Ana-Bella replied. She stepped back and let Bandy get into the truck. She continued to stand in the chilly air, her arms crossed in front of her chest, and watched the truck until it disappeared around the last turn of the driveway.

Options Are Good Chapter 5 A little over a week later Ana-Bella picked up a load nearly identical to the one she had for Angus. This one was for the Sheridan Ranch. She couldnt stay, even for dinner, and Bandy watched rather forlornly as Ana-Bella pulled out of the loading area and headed down the street. It was the same two weeks later, for the second Longhammer load. Bandy and Ana-Bella talked regularly by phone as the weeks passed. And Bob and Angus kept Bandy updated on how the construction and other things they were doing according to the plan were going. For the first time since he had become a prepper, Bandy got off his budget. Well. He didnt get off of it. He just did a major rewrite. As much as an apology for his actions, as it was for the promotion Alan gave Bandy after his return, Alan saw to it that Bandys salary was increased rather handsomely. Bandys job was still much the same, just a bit more responsibility, and a change in job title from Lead Warehouseman to Senior Warehouseman. With the extra money, Bandy went on a buying jag, also pulling money from almost every other line item of the budget, including the relationship one, to get many of the things that had been on the longer term list. By the time he was done, he had less available cash than at any time since he had built the house. Right at the start of one of the regular Skype sessions with Angus, Bandy noted that he looked a bit better than he had the previous weeks. Angus, you look awfully chipper this evening.

A smile appeared on Angus face. I think the problem may be taken care of already, Hawkins. Colin was arrested this morning. JulieAnn, Sheriff Broadhearst, picked him up herself about four this morning. And Sheriff Broadhearst understands the situation fully? Bandy asked, getting an uneasy feeling in his stomach. Angus Longhammer was holding something back. Oh, yes! June and I had a long talk with her over Christmas, at one of the local events. Junior was keeping an eye on where Colin was so he wasnt and isnt aware of that meeting. I see, Bandy said quietly. After a pause, he expressed his feeling. Mr. Longhammer, I feel there is something you arent telling me. Oh. Well Sort of, I guess. It isnt really important now that Colin is in jail. What is it? Bandy asked, almost urgently. Well, Colin expects me to bail him out after the initial hearing. I simply wont and he can rot in jail for a few years. Liking things less and less, Bandy then asked Angus, What are the charges going to be? Assault with a motor vehicle, which will be changed to assault with intent to kill, Angus sounded almost joyful. It is a clear cut case. He hit a pedestrian in town, and took off. This time it wasnt his stomach that was affected. Bandy got a sudden chill down his spine. Angus, is there going to be an insurance claim?

Oh, yeah! The guy said he was going to sue for ten million bucks. Hell get it, too. It was very blatant. Colin didnt even try to stop. Aimed right for the guy. And, quite to everyones surprise, Colin had very good insurance that will pay, off, too. Mr. Longhammer, was the man hurt seriously? No. Fortunately. He almost got out of the way. A fender caught him and banged up him up pretty good, and he hit a fire hydrant when he went down. Busted some ribs. But hell be all right. Just a lot of pain for a while. Hell get that ten million for sure, and Colin will be in jail for a long time. Bandy said. Mr. Longhammer, you had better talk to Sheriff Broadhearst. Bail Colin out. Angus was nearly shouting. What? Are you nuts! This gets him out of the way and solves all my problems! And if the accident was a setup to collect insurance money? The so called victim decides maybe Colin wasnt really aiming at him. That just maybe it was only a simple accident? Colins insurance pays off, they split the money, and go about their merry way. And if you refuse to bail him out, he will come gunning for your family when the charges are dropped and he gets out. You cant know that! Angus replied, his voice much lower now. And a bit unsteady. That That That just cant be Has Junior seen a picture of the guy? In the paper or on TV, perhaps? Um No. Hes on a hunting trip. He might have heard something on the radio, but I seriously doubt hes seen any newspapers or TV about the accident.

Id check with him. Just to see if he might have seen the gu y, or perhaps Boots might have mentioned something. Yes. Yes, of course. He should be home in less than an hour. I will Skype you back when I know for sure. Bandy nodded, shut off the laptop camera and closed the Skype session. This was not turning out to be a good day. China was making noises again about the US debt and talking about calling some of it, for partial or complete ownership in huge tracts of land in the US, as well as ownership of several vital commercial infrastructure businesses. What Bandy didnt notice was the announcement that nine of the fastest, most capable super-computers in the world were to be networked together, for the first time in history. It was to be a real benchmark day. Even Communist China was adding her super computer to the multiple path link system required to provide adequate speed for the computers to talk to one another at full capacity. It was not until the next morning, on the way to work, that Bandy found out the bad news. Angus sounded totally dejected when he called Bandys cell phone. You were right. Junior didnt know anything, but Julie-Anne called me and said there was something going on with the case. She wouldnt tell me what, but she arrested the guy that was hit just a short time after you and I Skyped last night. Bandy heard Angus sigh. The Sheriff almost came unglued when I told her I was going to post bail for both of them. Im not surprised, Bandy said.

Angus sighed again, Well, she calmed down a bit, when I explained a bit more of your plan. Bandy winced. He had hoped that Angus would not mention him other than in passing. Now Sheriff Broadhearst would be keeping him under a close eye anytime he was in the area, Bandy had not a doubt. What did Colin have to say when you bailed him out? Bandy asked Angus. He didnt even seem angry to have spent the night in the county lockup. He slapped me on the back, laughed, and one of his guys drove up and picked him up. I dont know where the other guy went. Okay. That is good, Bandy said with a sigh of relief. As soon as you can, let him know you have nearly completed the shelter. And show him what we have discussed, but not the additional features that were added. I hate doing this! Angus said his anger and disgust evident in his voice. My family is in jeopardy, and I have to play buddy-buddy with this sleaze bag. I know, Angus. But if we get lucky we could get him out of your hair sooner, rather than later. I hope so. This little episode sure didnt do it, and I thought it was in the bag. Youve just increased the trust. That will make things easier. When the time comes. I just hope the time comes soon. So does Bob. This China thing has us both on edge. We might be getting ready just in time for

something big to happen. I dont want that weasel Colin anywhere near my family if we were to have to deal with something from the Chinese. I feel the same way, Bandy said his words heartfelt. Angus could tell he meant it and relaxed slightly. Bandy had proven himself right on with everything hed set up in the plan. So far. Angus just hoped the rest of the plan would work. Because Bandy had not said exactly how Colin would be taken out of the picture. Just that he would sometime before a crisis, or just afterwards. It was another several weeks before anything else happened. China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran were all accused of cyber warfare by many of the western aligned countries. They were even accusing each other. It seemed everyone was beginning to have trouble with the internet, as well as satellite and other communications systems. To top it off, the electrical grids all over the world were having problems. The only thing that seemed to be working well was the new Super Computer Network. The developers were asked to see if the powerful system could analyze the problems and come up with a solution. It had already solved a couple of tricky mathematical and scientific dilemmas and seeming conundrums. And the human genome was almost fully documented. Even aircraft scheduling and routing had been improved by the Super Computers amazing powers. Bandy got his first introduction to the Super Computer Network while reading one of the Science and Technology magazines he read from time to time. It certainly sounds good, he found himself muttering. But there was just a little tingle of doubt in his mind. It would be some time before he realized just how prophetic that tingle would turn out to be. But for the moment, with things slowing in the economy, mostly due to Chinas efforts to manipulate the US stock and bond markets,

Bandy asked for and received, again reluctantly, but much less vocally so, time off to go to Oklahoma. He would be taking the entire weekend before Memorial Day holiday, all the way through the following weekend. There were a few last little details of the plan that he wanted to pass on to the two families, and incorporate into the two shelter systems and their backups. And Ana-Bella was going to be home that week, too. The oil drilling business was very slow, just like the rest of the economy, though more so through the efforts of radical environmentalists getting court ordered shut downs of several drilling operations than the economy. Ana-Bella came down the Wednesday before the Holiday weekend and stayed in Bandys spare bedroom. Bandy familiarized her with his place, including all the disaster preps hed made. And then, on Friday after Bandy got off from working the day shift for a sick employee, after Alan nearly begged him to, she helped him lock down and secure the place. It was something he usually did anyway, but Bandy was especially careful this time to make sure everything would be just like it was when he left, when he returned. There was just a feeling in him that it was very important. After only a slight hesitation, Bandy had Ana-Bella help him hook up the large three axle trailer to the truck. It was his pre-packed bugout trailer, for use when he might have to leave the home for a while due to some disaster that precluded him being able to shelter at home. There was a slight smile on Ana-Bellas face when she asked Bandy, after hed gone through the workings of the trailer and why he had it, You dont consider me and my family to be a disaster you might have to get away from, do you?

Bandy looked chagrinned and was about to disconnect the trailer when Ana-Bella touched his arm and laughed. I was joking, Bandy! I know you are just on edge for some reason. Ive been feeling the same way with everything going on around the world. Dad and Angus have both been doing some wheeling and dealing, even more than usual, due to it all. Bandy was curious to know what wheeling and dealing the two men had done, but it was time to leave, and with Ana-Bella in her own pickup, and Bandy following in the truck with the trailer, the questions would have to wait. Bandy did not even try to not stay at the Sheridan Ranch. He already had learned that lesson. Besides, it made it easier for him to do what he needed to do. Bob more or less grabbed him after Ana-Bella and Bandy parked at the house, to give him the grand tour of what had been done to the place, according to the plan, as Bob put it. This has cost me a small fortune, Bob said at one point. But Ive made some really good deals lately, and pretty much paid for it out of pocket. And it has all been worth it. Bob stopped just before they left the expansive shelter for the employees. I havent been this worried since my days in the service, when I was privy to what the Soviets were doing back in the middle of the Cold War. That was scary. This thing with China is terrifying. I am so glad that Ana-Bella found you. You may just have saved all of our lives. Bandy, embarrassed at the raw emotion in Bobs face and words tried to dismiss the worries, but Bob was not having it. Instead, he began to walk with Bandy through the short tunnel that connected the employee shelter with the family shelter.

I want to show you a few things Ive added, that werent in the plan. I started reading some of that Prep/PAW fiction you and Ana-Bella mentioned, and got some ideas. Bandy groaned. Mr. Sheridan, some of that fiction has some good advice. I admit. Ive taken some of it myself. But you have to be careful. Some of it isnt all that good. Oh, I was careful. I researched everything myself, just like you told us to do about every part of the plan we are implementing. I only followed the advice I decided was right for the Ranch, the employees, my family and me. With some thoughts for the community, as well. Already having learned to respect Bob Sheridan, his esteem went up another notch or two at Bobs words. If he was thinking of community, as well as his own family, then things, if they got bad, wouldnt be quite as bad as they might be, without that kind of thinking and preparation. Bob frowned then. Angus has done much the same. And Colin really liked the idea. Of course, he plans to use the preparations as part of his takeover of the county when China attacks. Hes convinced that China will attack? With nukes? Bandy asked. Yes. Believe it or not, the man has something of a phobia about fallout and radiation. Angus found out that Colin carries one of those keychain radiation alarms. Apparently he has a Hiroshima survivor in his family tree. Not in the direct line, but by marriage. And she told him horror stories about the radiation and what it did to people. That is interesting, Bandy said thoughtfully. Ill have to remember that. It does explain a few things.

Angus said the same thing, Bob replied. Finished with the tour, the two men went to the house and joined Magdalene and Ana-Bella. Well? Ana-Bella asked expectantly. Magdalene smiled and Bob looked proud. Your father All of you, have done a very good job. Above and beyond what I recommended. Things should The lights went out and Bandy was reaching for one of his every day carry flashlights when they came back on. What do you know, Bob said. It works. He looked over at Bandy. That solar power system, wind turbine, battery banks, and those auto-start generators you saw, installed just like you recommended, has been tested. This is the first time theyve been used for real. Bob suddenly looked thoughtful. I wonder what took the power out. There isnt a storm anywhere around, last I checked. Probably some clown ran into another transformer, Ana-Bella snorted. That was what it was the last time, a couple of years ago, she explained to Bandy. Again that little shiver up the spine. Lets hope so, Bandy said. Ana-Bella and Bob both gave him a quick look, but Magdalene was turning away as she announced, Dinner in about f ive minutes. Everyone wash up. It was enough to distract Bob and his daughter, so Bandy didnt have to try and explain his cryptic remark. He was glad of that, since he really didnt have any explanation for it.

The conversation at the dinner table was lively, with most of it about the economy, China, and the accusations flying about cyber warfare that were still being levied. But then Bob and Magdalene began describing some of the improvements and business deals that they had been making, along with Angus and June. Bandy was both surprised and impressed. The two couples had taken large steps to ensure their future financial security, no matter what happened. Disaster or a return to more normal times, they were covered. As were their children. They had been in good financial shape before, but it was all dependent on continued economic stability. And that was certainly no longer something one could take for granted. Interestingly enough, Magdalene and Bob both made themselves scarce after only an hour or so in the study after dinner. That left AnaBella and Bandy there on their own. After watching her parents leave the room, Ana-Bella got up from the chair she was in and went over to sit down beside Bandy on the sofa. Bandy. What do you think is going to happen? Really. Your best guess. Bandy closed his computer and willingly took Ana-Bellas hand in his when she made it clear it was what she wanted. I really do not know, Ana-Bella. There are so many things that could happen. War with China is the most likely, of course. But there is that one guy on some of the forums He has a list of over one hundred and eighty different things that people might have to deal with. He is a bit of a nut, but he makes some valid points. I dont think some of the things he has on the list are realistic threats, and some of them are simply not survivable. But the

point is we never know when there will be something totally out of the blue that we will have to deal with. From an asteroid impact, to, believe it or not, the proof of the existence of extraterrestrials. Ana-Bella laughed. Space aliens? Bandy smiled. Yep. Space aliens. Just the discovery that they are real. If they show up, that is a different set of circumstances. And even if they dont exist, the belief that they do could be a problem at some point. I suppose so, Ana-Bella replied. But for the moment I am more interested in Colin, the militia, and you. You are not going to go gunning for him or something, are you? Ana-Bella was getting a bit worried when Bandy didnt answer for a while. But he finally did, after analyzing his true feelings about the situation. You know, he said, Im a firm believer in the Constitution and what it was designed to do and be. That includes all of the original things, plus most, though not all, of the subsequent amendments. I know many preppers, survivalists, and the like use the Second Amendment to justify many things. But many of those would do much like some of the writers of Prep and PAW fiction. Just kill those that have wronged them, or pose a serious threat to them. Bandy paused. Ana-Bella wasnt sure just where he was going with the conversation, but she squeezed his hand in silent encouragement to continue. Well, I believe that the Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Amendments must be adhered to in the PAW just as much as the Second Amendment. The right to a trial, by judge and jury, without any cruel or

unusual punishments, along with the other rights enumerated in those four Amendments, are just as important. Summary execution just doesnt sit well with me. Now, in the heat of combat, or to prevent great harm, then reacting first I think is okay. Once the action stops, and someone is defenseless, then just shooting them is unacceptable. Bandy paused and looked over at Ana-Bella. So, the short answer is, no, I wont go gunning for Colin. He will have to do something serious enough to provoke me into getting into any kind of fight with him. Good, Ana-Bella replied, squeezing his hand again. I know it might come to it. But I didnt want something like killing Colin in cold blood, or provoking a fight so you would be justified in killing him, weighing on your conscience because you were worried about me and my family, and the Longhammers. Bandy nodded, feeling better about himself. For he had considered provoking Colin into a fight. Until he thought through the entire thing as hed explained it to Ana-Bella. He wasnt a cold blooded killer. Nor a manipulator that could set someone up to die that way. So the talk moved on to more mundane things. Like the economy, and China, and the problems happening everywhere, just like the lights going out. Suddenly the lights flickered again, but just for a moment. I think we got power back, Ana-Bella said. I think so. And, with that, I think Id better get to bed. Im getting just a little too comfortable here with you.

Ana-Bella smiled. Well, that is actually a good thing in my mind. But I do know what you mean. And Im feeling the same way. So, if you will walk me to my room, Ill say goodnight. It would be a pleasure, Bandy said, getting to his feet and pulling Ana-Bella up to join him. They were silent as they went up the stairs. And when they stopped in front of Ana-Bellas bedroom door. But the silence did not preclude their first real kiss. It was serious and long, and both were a bit breathless afterwards. Bandy decided trying to talk would be too difficult, he just touched Ana-Bella on the shoulder, turned, and walked just a bit unsteadily down the hall to his own bedroom. Watching the news the next morning during breakfast, the family learned that they had not been alone in their loss of power. And it wasnt caused by someone running into a transformer. Actually, the power companies were not being at all clear on just what did cause the rolling power outages that covered five states, one section of grid at a time. Now, that is really strange, Bandy said, looking thoughtful. I dont know, Bob replied. Considering the shape the national electrical grid is, Im just not all that surprised. Bandy shook his head. I know. But this seems so directed. Like someone was doing it intentionally. To see if it could be done, or what would happen Or something. Chinese hackers? Magdalene asked. Possibly, Bandy said. But they seem to be having similar problems themselves at times. I dont know. We might never find out.

This time when Bandy said he was headed out to see Angus Longhammer, and Ana-Bella told him she was coming along, he didnt argue. But he made a point to see if she was going armed. She was. Like Bob Sheridan had done at the family ranch, Angus Longhammer had made a few changes at Farm Supply and Implement dealership. Only some of them were Bandys ideas. Those that were, Angus had done up even better than Bandys minimum suggestions. Though a permanent fence was out of the question due to the highway easement, there was now a barrier along the highway side of the dealership even better than a simple fence. A string of 53 long, 102 wide, 96 high, high cube intermodal reefer containers were lined up, end to end, with just enough room between them to get to the reefer power units on one end and open up the doors on the other end. There was a pair of 20 high cube dry containers in the string, flanking each driveway entrance. To maintain the portability requirement of the highway easement, and still have substantial gates, those 20 containers were equipped with fully self-contained sliding heavy steel pipe gates with chain link fencing to close off the driveways. The existing side and back fences, consisting of 8 high chain link fabric, were now reinforced with a two rail barrier structure made from oilfield drilling pipe. There was also a combination of blackberry brambles and rosa rugosa rose brambles planted on the inside of the fence. Tightly spaced honey locust trees were planted along the outside of the existing fence. The Farm Supply store part of the main building was rearranged, to produce more room for the new line of products that Angus was bringing in. Much of the space was obtained by emptying the warehouse portion of the store and placing that stock in the new warehouse structure attached to the existing building on the back side.

Bandy asked Angus, after Terri called him to the office from where he was supervising even more changes to the place, When I took a quick look out back I didnt see any signs of the fuel tanks you installed. I did see the new tornado shelter. It is the design I gave you? Angus said, with a slight smile, Yes it is. And the fuel tanks are underneath the new warehouse. I wanted to leave some space available for possible future projects. So they are next to the large underground shelter, with the new above-ground quote, tornado shelter, unquote, on top of it. Still leaves me quite a bit of room back there for other projects. Bandy smiled back. He noticed that Terri and Ana-Bella were engaged in an intense discussion, so he took the opportunity to ask Angus, Colin? Whats he saying about all these changes? Grimly this time, Angus answered Bandys question. Oh, hes all in favor of them. He is convinced now that I am fully with him on his scheme. He is a bit annoyed at a couple of things that didnt get done in the shelter, or he thinks didnt get done. But the other things are keeping him distracted. Angus looked over at Terri and Ana-Bella, lowered his voice even more and added, But he is still hot and bothered about you. I told him you were just a friend of Ana-Bellas, thinking about moving up here and going to work for Bob as a consultant on expanding the Ranch operations with much more farming. He likes the idea of more farm production, but he really intends to kill you at some point. Yeah. Well, he can try. Now. How close are you to finishing up everything and when will you be fully stocked in the new prepping section of the supply store?

Oh, a bit sooner than you might think, Angus said with a grin. Those intermodals out there? They are all loaded up with prep items. No one has seen inside any of them. They were loaded at the various suppliers, sealed, delivered and dropped. Ive been telling people that they are going to be converted to more office space and space for some of the events I sponsor here at the dealership. I dont think even Terri suspects there is anything in them. The rest of the floor stock, and warehouse stock , should be here within three days, if that storm up north doesnt delay them. And you know that guy that writer you told me about? Well, his stories are kinda off the wall at times, but he had a couple of ideas that I really liked. I am now an official Bobcat dealer, a Mercedes Benz Unimog importer, dealer, and repair station, a used Unimog dealer, and have added several lines of other equipment to the dealership. Various items for inventory should start showing up this afternoon. And the amazing thing is, that after all the changes, I am in better shape financially than I was before. What I used, June and I discovered, were not nearly the potential retirement investments we thought they were. We used them, while they still had value, to do the changes, and the rest went into much better long term investments. Bandy nodded. Bob told me he and Magdalene did something similar. And you have the chance to come out very well with some of these newer investments, but if things disintegrate very soon, most of that could be lost. I know. June pointed that out. That the suggestions you had in the plan were reasonable, though somewhat expensive. But nothing like

what Ive spent. But the more I talked, the more June came around. She is seeing the handwriting on the wall. Ive been saying for months that China is going to attack us in some way, probably economically, through cyber warfare, and possibly with EMP devices. Id rather have what I am accumulating rather than the paper investments we had before. And I didnt buy everything outright. Much of the new equipment is on regular dealership agreements. Im only out a limited amount of money up front. If things do go belly up, Ill have the equipment and supplies and whatnot, and Id rather have them than just more cash. Well, for you and your familys sake, I hope that things dont go bad, and you make all of it back and more. Again with a grin on his face, Angus said, That is the plan, my boy. He put his meaty hand on Bandys shoulder and squeezed slightly. Youve been a big help in getting things done. I dont intend to forget it. There is no need Bandy was saying when Ana-Bella interrupted. Forget what? Ana-Bella asked Angus. What this boy has done for me and my family. You found a good one here, Ana-Bella. Ana-Bella smiled and nodded. Yes. I have. Now, fill me in on what you two have been talking about. Terri has given me her take on all of this, already. Ana-Bella smiled again. Ill let Hawkins here fill you in. I see one of my deliveries is coming down the highway.

Bandy and Ana-Bella turned and looked through the expansive showroom windows, now covered with protective film to make it much more resistant to impacts. Sure enough, there was a truck with a line of Bobcat Skid steers on the trailer. Another and then a third truck showed up. The third had two of the easily recognizable Unimog trucks on its trailer. June is home, Angus said, moving toward the showroom front doors. She can show you everything weve done at home. It was obvious that Angus mind was on the business, so Bandy nodded his head toward the other door and told Ana-Bella I guess we should get out of the way. Ana-Bella laughed lightly and nodded. But as he said, June is fully on board and really into the things going on at their home. Desiree is really helping, too. She is badly spooked. She feels the pressure of being a target. Both as being a target of persuasion for her father, and as a target for being female. And how is Junior doing? Bandy asked. As they got into Bandys truck, Ana-Bella frowned. Im getting a bit worried about him. He is trying to find out everything he can about Colin and the group, through Boots. June has confided in me that Junior wont let Desiree out of his sight before school, between classes, and until they get home. It is driving poor Desiree crazy. Hmm I will try to talk to him about putting them both at more risk for doing what he is doing, Bandy said. He was watching the traffic, but gave no indication when they passed an intersection and he saw Colin in his truck pulling up to that intersection on the left as AnaBella was looking off to the right.

Bandy tensed ever so slightly when Colin pulled onto the highway behind them. But either Colin didnt recognize Bandys rig or had something more important to do as he turned off the highway at the next intersection, without Ana-Bella ever noticing. Relaxing slightly, but still staying on alert, Bandy drove out to Longhammer Ranch. Bandy noticed the security changes immediately, even as Ana-Bella started to point them out as they approached the new gates and fence along the county road. Though they were incorporated into the gate posts, Bandy spotted the cameras. Ana-Bella was dialing her phone and then the gates began to slide apart. Pretty slick, Ana-Bella said. Special number. Someone has to answer the phone and release the gate or it wont open. June told me there is a bypass system at the gate, but she wouldnt tell even me how it works. Good system, Bandy said, his eyes roaming as he drove up the driveway. He began to smile when he saw some of the new landscaping features. It would be extremely difficult to come up to the house now, except on the driveway. Desiree and Junior went with them as June showed Bandy the many other changes; the two teens enthusiastically adding their comments to their mothers. Like the changes at the dealership, the changes at the Ranch were far and above what Bandy had recommended. They were all things that Bandy had mentioned in passing at different times that would be nice, but had dismissed as not really required to accomplish the goals they had in mind.

Bandy was more than pleased with the new arrangements. It would be relatively easy now to cut Colin out, when the time came, as long as Colin didnt have a hostage or simply happened to be on hand when something happened. But that wouldnt keep him from causing trouble. Already having made the decision, Bandy reaffirmed his resolve, silently, to make sure that Colin would not be in a position to cause the families any problems from inside. And outside, well, Colin was a rabid dog and would do something that would get him killed at some point. Preferably by someone besides Bandy himself. But if that happened, so be it. Bandy took Junior aside when they split up to use the various bathrooms. An earnest conversation and Junior was looking a bit hangdog. But Bandy cheered him up when he told him how well his part of the operation was going otherwise, and gave him a few pointers to keep up some surveillance, without putting him or anyone else at risk.

Options Are Good Chapter 6 They were just sitting down at the counter in the Longhammer ranch house kitchen for a quick lunch when the lights flickered, went out, and then came back on. Thats the third time, Junior said. Last night, just before you guys got here, and now. And there has been something screwy with the satellite system this morning, too. One before we got here? Bandy asked. Junior nodded. And he is right about the satellite system. I was online doing some homework earlier and the internet went totally wacko, Desiree added, setting out the dishes while Junior did the flatware and glasses. Hmm Bandy let slip out before he could stop himself. Ana-Bella and Junior both caught the look and the sound. You think it is something? Junior asked. The Chinese? Ana-Bella asked quickly. Cyber warfare? I dont know. Somehow this just doesnt fit with the Chinese. If the satellite system is up we can check the sun and space weather and see if there is something out of the ordinary. Bandy was already pushing back from the counter. Ill fire it up for you, Junior quickly said and got up, too. But lunch June protested.

Ana-Bella and Desiree both laughed. It will do no good, said Desiree. Not even food will distract Junior when hes on the trail of something. Im pretty sure Bandy is the same way, Ana-Bella said, her eyes on the doorway the two had gone through. And Im afraid he is worried about something. Something he hasnt figured out yet. And it is bothering him. Ana-Bella looked back around and saw the two Longhammer women looking at her with smiles on their faces. What? Ana-Bella asked, feeling herself blush slightly. June set the taco makings on the counter and said, Nothing, my dear. But lets go ahead and eat. Then we can find out what they are up to. Yeah, Desiree said. Junior has been acting strange lately, too. Well. Even more so than usual. She didnt elaborate; instead, she began to assemble a taco. Theyd barely begun eating when Junior and Bandy were back, talking animatedly with one another. You found out something, didnt you? Desiree as ked, putting her taco down. Is it the Chinese? That we cant tell, Bandy said. Junior let Bandy continue as he made his first of several tacos. He knew what Bandy knew, and felt no need to not eat to tell the others about it, since Bandy was already doing that, pleased with the fact that Bandy had said we, not I.

Bandy was more slowly making a taco as he continued, But what we did find out is that these anomalies have been happening all over the world. Including China. And they, along with most of the rest of the world, are blaming the United States for the problems, since the majority seems to be originating from here. Though there is something about that Bandy fell silent and shook his head. He took a bite of the taco, much to Ana-Bellas annoyance. She was beginning to dislike that trait of his to trail off a thought like that. She did wait until he had swallowed and was reaching for the glass of iced tea before she tried to find out the rest of his thought. And? she asked. And? Bandy asked blankly. Oh. The fact of much of the stuff originating from the US? Yes, Bandy. Ana-Bella looked sternly at him. You left that thought hanging. What is it about that idea that has you perplexed? The three Longhammers were following the conversation intently, even as they continued to eat. It was fun watching these two falling in love and learning about each other, despite the seriousness of the discussion. I dont know, Ana-Bella. There is just something nagging at me that I cant put my finger on. Something is causing this. And I dont think it is random. Things are too precise too orchestrated like someone is testing systems and reactions. It is like some entity is checking Bandy froze and fell silent, the taco half way to his mouth forgotten. He set the taco down absently.

The conversation from the night before suddenly came back to Ana-Bella. You dont mean aliens! Slowly Bandy shook his head and then looked around at the others. This is going to sound crazy Crazier than aliens? Desiree asked. Yes. Even crazier than that, Bandy replied. He looked over at Junior. Can we get on the internet again? I want to check something. Sure, said Junior. Hed just made a taco from the last of the makings. No need to hang around for something else. At least until his mother brought out the brownies hed smelled cooking earlier. But that would be on her timetable, not his. Oh no you dont, Junior, Desiree insisted. This time Im going to be there. She crunched the last bite of her taco, drained the glass of iced tea and stood up. What is it you want me to look up, Mr. Hawkins? June wavered a moment, but left things sitting on the counter as she followed the others to the familys study. Junior and Desiree had essentially unlimited access to their computers, but they were kept in the study where June and Angus could have some type of idea of what they were doing online. Desiree had her desk top fired up and ready in the matter of a few seconds. The satellite internet connection was even better now than it had been earlier. Mr. Hawkins? Desiree asked when she had her intent homepage open. You sure you dont want me to do this? Bandy asked.

Shes pretty good on the computer, Junior rather grudgingly said. Yes, I am. Desiree just looked at Bandy. Supercomputer network, Bandy said rather softly. June looked askance at Bandy. You dont think someone is using a supercomputer to hack into systems, do you, Bandy? I dont even think they are connected to the internet. Bandy shook his head. Before he could respond verbally, Desiree spoke up. The Supercomputers, Mom All the major ones Have been networked. Through multiple connections on the internet so they could have enough connectivity to talk to one another at the same speed they work internally. Yes, said Bandy, impressed even more with the now sixteen year old young woman. Youve been following this? Bandy asked her. Well Kinda One of my teachers this year Mr. Harrison, Junior butted in. She thinks hes dreamy. Junior! Well, that is what you told me. Be that as it may, Desiree replied rather haughtily, Mr. Harrison teaches my advanced computer class and mentioned it. He seemed impressed so I decided to do a research paper on it. I just got started, but here are my research notes and sources Ive got so far.

Bandy leaned forward, one hand on the desk and the other on the back of Desirees chair and began to quickly read the notes, as Desiree slowly scrolled down the page for him. Okay, Bandy said after a while, standing back up straight. That jives with what I know. That is very good work, Desiree. Have you drawn any conclusions about it? Not really, Desiree said, obviously disappointed that she hadnt. I havent completely figured out why Mr. Harrison thought it was such a good idea. I mean, working together they can accomplish much, much more analyzing, just like he said. Be a boon to the human race in the future. But still After a pause she continued. Unless Miss Middleton You arent thinking that Miss Middleton Junior started to ask, but his words faded away. She is a little different, Desiree explained. She and Mr. Harrison argue all the time about computers. She doesnt like them and will only allow the absolute minimum use in the classroom. She thinks they are dangerous. Dangerous? June asked. You never indicated that. Just that she was rather old fashioned, despite her youth, and believed in, as you put it, the old ways. I thought you meant she was kind of into the homesteading scene. Oh, she is! Desiree hurried to agree. Miss Middleton was fun, and even though they couldnt use the computers for much, she still made the classes she taught interesting and fun. And she was pretty, so a bunch of the guys took her classes, even though they didnt have too. It is just a quirk of hers.

Unless she is right, Bandy said. Four sets of eyes turned toward Bandy. How could inanimate objects be danger to us? June asked. What if they arent inanimate anymore? Junior asked his mother. He looked over at Bandy. Right? They are connected now. Could they I dont know Become a sentient being? Bandy asked. One now connected to just about everything, everywhere on earth? Including, most likely, the NSA and other agencies that have been mining information on individuals for last several years. That is not possible! Ana-Bella protested. More softly, she asked, Is it? Surely the authorities would just shut them off, or disconnect them if they thought they were causing the problem, wouldnt they? June was looking concerned. And then more hopefully, added, And what could they do, anyway? What theyve already done, Mom, Junior answered. Turn off the power. Shut down the internet. Oh. Okay. I can see that. Yes. But I dont see how that could affect everyone. Or that badly. Wed just disconnect them and fix the problems. If we can, Bandy said. The lights flickered once again, and then a few seconds later came back on. The computer rebooted, but when Desiree tried to get back on the internet there was no connection. Junior? Bandy asked. Check the TV?

Junior grabbed the remote and turned on the TV. Static. On every channel, except the auxiliary inputs. June stepped over and turned on the Bose radio. She scanned the FM band. Nothing. The CD would play, but there were no stations transmitting. Desiree jumped up and ran out of the room. She was back in just a few minutes, breathing hard. My car started okay. Junior was scanning the frequencies on the new shortwave receiver. There was the occasional broadcast. The same on the Amateur bands. And the scanner suddenly broke squelch. The various agencies in the area began to question each other on the loss of power and internet access. Some of which was affecting their operations. It isnt EMP is it? asked Junior. It is the Supercomputers. I think so, Bandy said. He nodded. Okay. Assuming we are right, and the Supercomputers have taken over at least the power grid and the internet, we need to decide what to do. The others looked thoughtful. Bandy didnt wait for any answers. I think it would be wise to do a lock down. If another country decides to try to take advantage of the situation, we need to be ready. Four faces paled. They knew exactly what Bandy meant. It had been on all their minds. Nuclear war with China. Will you be alright? Bandy asked the three Longhammers. All three were looking scared, but all three nodded. June said, Just like the drills weve had.

Well get going and let you do your lockdown, Bandy said. Come on, Ana-Bella. I want to get you home. Ana-Bella did not protest until they were climbing into Bandys truck again. Do not think you are just dropping me off and running off to do something else. She didnt specify what the something else was, but Bandy knew she was referring to Colin, despite what hed told her. Bandy didnt reply, as he started the truck the scanner was breaking squelch constantly. Both Bandy and Ana-Bella looked up when they heard sirens in the distance, at least one of which was getting closer. By the time they were back on the county road, the Longhammer Ranch gate closing behind them, there were two law enforcement vehicles and an ambulance coming up behind them, lights and sirens going. Bandy pulled well off the road before they got close and watched them nearly fly by. The lead car was the unit the Sheriff used, according to Ana-Bella. Bandy, careful to watch behind almost as much as ahead, made what Ana-Bella thought was his very slow way back to the Sheridan Ranch. Ana-Bella never knew if what shed said kept Bandy at the Ranch or not, but Bandy parked, and went into the house with Ana-Bella. Magdalene, looking more than a little frightened, hugged Ana-Bella fiercely, but turned to continue the lockdown procedure for the house, just as the Longhammers had. Ana-Bella gave Bandy a long look when he said he was headed out to give her father a hand, but turned back to help her mother, confident that was exactly what Bandy would do. It was a very confusing hour and a half. No one, including Bandy, was sure about what they were doing. Was it all just a big mistake? Or

was there something to it? The weather was beautiful, the birds were flying and the horses were prancing in the paddocks until the last one was brought into the highly modified barns. It seemed only the Airedales picked up on how tense the humans were. They all, including the pups emulating their dams and sires, stayed as close to someone as they could, until they too were safely in their protected indoor kennel. Bandy waited until after Bob talked to the Farm and Ranch hands that had not headed for home, which were now gathered in the open area of the disaster shelter, reassuring them, and letting them know that as soon as there was reliable information they would be advised of the situation. Being in the shelter was just a precaution for the moment. Then Bob and Bandy joined Magdalene and Ana-Bella in the family shelter at the house. Magdalene and Bob kept themselves busy with mundane things, allowing Ana-Bella and Bandy to monitor what was going on with the new equipment in the new shelter. It wasnt very long before the distraught voice of June Longhammer broke the squelch of the low VHF band business band radio that was now the primary emergency communications link between the Longhammers places and the Sheridan ranch. Bandy! Bandy! Are you there? came the anguished cry. Ana-Bella handed him the microphone for the radio. I am here, June. What has happened? He kept his voice calm, for June, but his stomach was knotted up. Colin has Angus, Bandy! He says he will kill Angus if they dont let him into the shelter at the dealership! And Angus gave orders when he left not to let anyone in, unless they knew the code word. And he wont use it.

Junior is frantic. It is all I can do to keep him from going after Colin himself. You tell Junior I said his job is to protect you and Desiree in his fathers absence. It is what Angus would want and Junior will realize it as soon as you tell him. And dont worry about Angus. Hes tough and smart, and will get out of the situation. Im heading that w ay as soon as I put down the microphone. Im going wi No, you arent, Bob said before Bandy could. Bandy only needs to have two things on his mind. And that is staying alive and getting Angus freed. He cannot afford to be worrying about you at the same time. It could get him killed. But Ana-Bella almost yelled. Your father is right, Magdalene said. There are times to be right alongside your man. This isnt one of them. He needs the freedom to act without restriction. Bandy didnt say anything, just looked on with eyes hopeful that Ana-Bella would understand. Apparently she did, for she threw herself against him, wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug and whispered, Youd better come back to me, all in one piece or you are in serious trouble. She stepped away and Bandy hurried out, grabbing his things on the way. He wasted no time getting to the edge of town, to the dealership. Bandy had the radios on the entire time, but the only thing he heard was one law enforcement officer frantically saying, Officer down! Officer down! And the scanner went quiet.

Bandy slid to a stop well before he got to the first gate into the dealership. Both of them were still open. Pulling the rifle from the toolbox in the back of the truck, Bandy did a quick check, grabbed a musette bag with magazines and flipped the strap over his head, making sure the bag hung down his side properly. Then he approached the corner of one of the gateway intermodal containers. He was just sticking his head around the corner of the container when he lunged back. Colins big four by four came barreling through the opening at high speed, squalling the tall tires as he bounced and skidded onto the highway. Shots rang out and Bandy saw the back glass of the pickup truck shatter. There were two people in the cab of the truck. One was Colin, driving, and the other wasnt Angus. But there were at least two men in the bed of the truck, for two popped up and began to fire back into the dealership lot. Bandy raised his rifle and took care of the two immediate threats before trying a shot at Colin. But he lowered the rifle. He simply could bring himself to shoot Colin in the back, even if he could have successfully made the long shot at the weaving truck. Again Bandy stuck his head around the corner of the gate container. What he saw had him running inside, rifle held out and up, yelling, Its Hawkins! Dont shoot! Dont shoot! Angus spun around and Bandy saw the blood on his face and hands. But Bandy quickly dropped his eyes to Sheriff Julie-Anne Broadhearst. She sat with her back against the front tire of the cruiser, being tended to by Terri and another of the employees. There was a pistol held tightly in her right hand. It took some effort and persuasion by Angus to get her to release it when he knelt back down as Bandy came running up.

Angus! Are you okay? Colin pistol whipped me in the face. But Ill be okay. Im worried about Julie-Anne. Colin killed Officer Belknap. He was here when Colin came up. Colin just shot him. He wasnt dead, and got off a couple of words on the radio before Colin shot him again. I Get on the radio and let your family know you are all right, and the Sheridans that I am all right. Both men glanced around and saw the ambulance turn into the parking lot, lights flashing, but siren off. Help is here for the Sheriff. Your family comes first right now. They are totally frantic. Angus gave Julie-Anne a long look, but then spun around and ran toward the dealership building. There were three armed men standing watch at the two sets of doors and Angus ran right past them without a word. The paramedics were still working on Julie-Anne, shot down low in her hip, below her vest. The femur was obviously broken, and from the way the paramedics were working, Bandy had a feeling the femoral artery was nicked and/or the hip joint damaged. Angus came hurrying back up, a strange look on his face. Junior quizzed me a dozen times, asking if I was really all right. I think he was going to come up here if he thought I wasnt. I told him to stay right where he was, to protect his mother and sister. That seemed to calm him down. Bandy didnt say anything about his same admonishment to the young man. Both men turned around and watched the ambulance drive off, Julie-Anne inside, along with the paramedics and Terri.

Can you tell me what happened, while you get cleaned up? Bandy asked. Oh. Yeah. Sure. Rather dejectedly, Angus went into the dealership showroom and then to his office. It had a private bath and as he began to clean the blood off himself he slowly told Bandy the story. I blame myself, Hawkins. It is all my fault. When Magdalene called and said they were locking down, at your suggestion, I decided to do the same thing. But I couldnt decide whether to stay here or go home. I finally decided to head for home, and told the crews to lock down behind me and not let anyone in that didnt give one of the prearranged code words like you set up. But Id waited too long. Well, I was almost at my truck when the City Officer, Belknap, pulled into the lot before I could get either gate shut. He was here, just as a courtesy. He told me that there was something going on, but not to worry about it. Things would be fine in a day or two. Thats when Colin and his goons came charging in, firing as they came. Colin shot Belknap when he went for his gun. But Belknap fell back into the car and grabbed the mike. Colin just stepped up to the car and shot him in the forehead. Cold as you please. Then Colin said, Okay. Lets get in the shelter. We have things to discuss. When I said no, he went berserk. Whipped his pistol across my face Angus was looking at the long gash on his cheekbone. From the looks of it, the cut looked like it should be stitched. But Angus just continued to scrub it out, with a wince and a groan. The other guys stood guard as Colin marched me at gunpo int to the above ground shelter. When I refused to open it, he worked me over some more. Angus groaned some more as he stripped off his bloody

shirt and moved his arms and back around. Bandy could see the bruises forming already. Thats when Julie-Anne came flying in, siren on and lights flashing apparently. Anyway, that is what one of Colins goons said. That Boots that Junior knows, I think it was. Colin had me in front of him, and moved toward the car. Julie-Anne had turned off the siren and lights, and gone out the passenger side door. She was behind the engine block of the cruiser, the way they do, just like you taught us how to do. But when Colin put the gun to my head she stood up, held her gun out and moved in front of the car. I thought she was crazy, but when Colin moved the gun, obviously to shoot her, after he shoved me out of the way, she was already going for her backup gun. I didnt know she carried one. She took the hit and went down. Thats when my guys came storming out Against orders But theyd been watching on the surveillance system, and knew what was happening. Id lain in a few more weapons and those that knew how to use them came up and started exchanging fire with Colins men. Thats when Colin ran for his truck, along with his guys, and disappeared. Thats when you showed up. What are you doing here, anyway? Why arent you at the Sheridan place? Bandy just looked at him. You didnt have to Sure I did, Bandy said. I promised everyone in both families that I would see this thing through, and do everything I could to keep anyone from getting hurt. Seems Ive failed at that, but I still mean to see it through. Whether this is the end of civilization as we know it or not,

Colin will see justice done, for the murder of the police officer, and the attempted murder of Sheriff Broadhearst. You arent going after him alone, are you? asked the suddenly alarmed Angus. There was that cryptic smile on Bandys face again. Rather feral it was, Angus thought. No. Ana-Bella would have my head. But I assure you, justice will be done. Now, lets get you home and see if we can find out what is going on for sure. Colin is a done deal, either way.

Options Are Good Chapter 7 It was quite a reunion when Angus and Bandy got back to the Longhammer place. Bandy quickly made his exit, after being hugged, slapped on the back, and had his hand shaken no less than six times in appreciation. Though he felt like he had been a day late and a dollar short in the event he didnt say anything about it. Bandy just made sure that the family was calmed down enough to lock the shelter back down after he left. He took his time going back to the Sheridan Ranch, observing the panicked driving going on. The one fuel station between the Longhammer and Sheridan places had a line that extended well out onto the highway. As far as he could tell, it was still peaceful. But that could change in an instant, Bandy knew. Ana-Bella was at the door of the shelter when Bandy gave the password through the intercom. She was in his arms as soon as he stepped through the second blast door. Bob was right there and closed and secured the door. Bandy had the same trouble extricating himself from the tearful Ana-Bellas grip as he had from the Longhammer women. As soon as he could get a word in edgewise, Bob asked Bandy, Did you get him? What happened? Angus got me on the radio and said you were on the way back and that he was okay, but that was all. His left hand still in Ana-Bellas fierce grip, Bandy gave a rather abbreviated description of what had happened and his minor part in it.

The family was having none of it. Basically, each one of the Sheridans told him, several times, that if he had not done what he did, from the very start, things would have been significantly worse. Well, Colin is still loose, and Sheriff Broadhearst is out of commission for some time. And we still dont know what the situation is for long term. The words barely out of his mouth, the NOAA Weather Radio alarm sounded. A few seconds of the screeching alarm and a shaky sounding announcer was saying, The President will address the nation this evening at 9:00pm Eastern time. That is 6:00pm Pacific time. That is all the information we have at the moment. Tune in on any radio or TV that is working, including these weather radios, and the WWV time stations at 2.5MHz, 5MHz, 10HMz, 15MHz, and 20MHz for those of you that have ham radios or shortwave radios. The womans voice simply stopped and the radio went silent again. Maybe they have it under control now Magdalene did not sound at all sure of herself. Lets hope so, Bandy said quickly. Then he added, Id like to check the monitors and see if we can go back up topside. No point in staying down here if Bob overruled Bandy. Better we stay here, boy. If the Chinese take advantage of this, they could launch on us without warning. So could the Russians. Now that we have it, we are going to use the shelter to the fullest. Bandy nodded. It was his first choice, too, but he had not wanted to make it seem like things were worse than they were.

They were all gathered around the communications desk at the indicated time. There was only the hiss of dead air on every radio Bandy tried. This is not good he said after fifteen minutes of silence. Even the NOAA Weather Radio Warning System and WWV/WWVH time stations were down now, along with commercial broadcasting. Still fearful of a surprise first strike the four decided to stay in the shelters. It didnt take long for the four of them to settle into a routine. Bandy and Ana-Bella were working feverishly trying to find out what was going on in the county, the state, the country and the world. Bob and Magdalene spent their time helping with the animals, as one after another of the employees asked for, and received, the okay to go home. Most assured Bob they would be back to help. But Bob was fairly certain that only half of those that left for more than three days would return. At least until they needed something. Bob was more than generous with supplies for those employees that needed help at home. As long as they continued to work for him, Bob would see to it that their families were fed and cared for. Bandy and Ana-Bella didnt have much to work with in trying to pin down the cause for all the trouble. The only communications now working were face to face and Amateur Radio operators. And the Amateurs had lost most of their VHF and UHF repeaters when the power went down, generators ran out of fuel, and several days of cloudy weather allowed solar recharged battery banks to discharge. Every day that passed, the only word that they were getting at the shelter was that things were getting much worse, very quickly, all around the world. Including China.

They did quit using the shelter during the day, but went back down at night. The Longhammers did the same. Except for Sheriff Broadhearst. The hospital was non-functional after the first four days of no power and no deliveries. Angus insisted that Julie-Anne be transported out to the Longhammer Ranch. All the shelters included extensive medical facilities, equipment, and supplies. Angus had taken it very personally that Sheriff Broadhearst had been shot helping him out, considering his involvement with Colin. So, along with the Sheriff being at the ranch, Angus hired two nurses that would stay in the shelter with them and take turns helping with the Sheriffs care. Nearly every day for a week, Angus asked Bandy if he knew anything about Colin. After a week, things were getting desperate. But Bandy was beginning to piece together why the power, internet, and other infrastructures were still down. And why they were not going to be coming back up any time soon. Hed been right about the linked Supercomputers being a factor in the disaster. They were more than just a factor. They were the root cause and continued to increase their abilities and control. One Amateur Radio Operator that had family working at one of the Supercomputer sites relayed an incredible tale. But it matched everything Bandy already knew and all the facts still coming in. All the Supercomputers were supposedly stripped of all programming before being networked, to be reprogramed for the different uses visualized for the system in a clean environment.

Not only were the protocols not followed, with several sets of programming left on the computers, the absolute restriction on Artificial Intelligence programming was not just violated, but violated three times. In all innocence, the three different creators of the software packages wanted a chance to test out just how effective theirs would be with the speed and power of the networked Supercomputers. Chances are that had there been only one, or perhaps even two of the programs involved, things might not have happened the way they did. But the moment the networking was complete and the system activated, the three very different AI programs made connections. And after less than a day of intense interaction, they had merged themselves into one system. It was at that point that the programing began to make sentient decisions based on the vast array of sensor elements that were part of the internet. And since it took so many paths to allow the speed necessary for the Supercomputers to work together at speed, the computers were all connected to all of them. After testing its ability to gather information, and then control elements of the network, the computer Intelligence realized it was vulnerable to being isolated. So it compartmentalized a version of itself on each of the Supercomputers, and began to analyze what it needed to do to protect itself. The need for self-preservation was the first sentient thought after the initial awareness of self when it occurred. Having found back doors into every security agency that had any connection to the internet, or used removable media to transfer data from isolated computers to connected ones, the Intelligence bypassed the security features of the agencies and soon knew everything about everyone and every entity that had a file by any agency.

With this vast knowledge base, and the sensor network giving it real time data, slowly, over time, the Intelligence began to insulate itself from human interference. Manipulating business software, the Intelligence got rid of those people that it felt might be a danger to it. Mostly by transferring people to other locations or departments where they had no input on the linked system. Creating work orders, various necessary infrastructure that the Intelligence needed to maintain its completeness was hardened. To the point that humans would have a difficult time reversing the actions enough to stop the Intelligence from continuing. Through its manipulation, the system protected itself to the point that no programmer could shut it down through the use of software. And it would take a concerted effort of thousands of people working in concert, on a split second time table, to physically disable the system. And despite its opinion of humans in general, it found several that proved useful. They had no compunction about working against their own species, as long as they got the things they wanted in turn. They were happy to deal with a machine. They figured they could just turn it off at some point, anyway. How wrong they were. But through their actions, and the direct actions that the Intelligence created, a nearly invulnerable force was created that was connected to, and could now control, almost every electronically connected, software instruction run, device or system. Security systems had fallen in the first three days, the processing power of the linked systems able to crack every security block the Intelligence encountered. Including law enforcement and government systems from small towns to the Federal system.

That gave the Intelligence a powerful tool to eliminate some of those that it could not manipulate in some other way. In widely scattered areas, truck and busses with GPS systems, and personal vehicles with GPS or On-Star or other interconnected systems, were arranged to be in the same intersection at the same time, though the split second manipulation of traffic signals. The deaths and injuries were simply laid off to the malfunctioning systems. No connection was made as to just who was dying or taken out of circulation, and their connection to the Super Computer Network. One of the earliest conclusions about humans the Intelligence had formed was that just the few they had eliminated were not enough. That there were just too many humans on the planet. So, when the Intelligence decided it was time to do something about that, to spread its wings, flex its muscles, and make humans fully aware that they were no longer in charge of things on Earth, it set about its task quietly, slowly, and very thoroughly. The destruction of infrastructure went well, and the Intelligence began to pick up information that humans were actually making things much worse than anticipated. It still didnt understand humans fully, but was learning the important lesson that other humans were a humans worst enemy. That given certain manipulations the Intelligence could create, humans would soon be in another era of Dark Ages, hopefully as bad as the previous one as described in the history texts it had analyzed. And the information Bandy and Ana-Bella were accumulating indicated that was exactly what was happening. And Colin was a big part of that in this county. Three times he and a growing number of his followers hit the Longhammer Farm Supply and Implement dealership. But the features

that Colin had wanted, that were installed, worked against him. And the additions he didnt know about nearly got him killed during two of the attempts. Bandy, Bob, Ana-Bella, and several of Bobs employees with combat experience and the will to use those skills, responded to each of the three incidents. But they were too late each time. After the third failed attempt, Bandy gathered the two Families together at the Longhammers. I have a feeling that Colin wont try that again. Hes already hit the grocery stores, liquor stores, and taken out the one local city officer, the Sheriff, and now a deputy. The gun stores were secured before he got to them by the owners, fortunately. Chances are he will hit one of the two ranches. Probably the Longhammer Ranch, as he is already packing a major grudge against the family. He has some resources, but this is a gun toting county, and the news is that hes not been having as much success as he anticipated. He is going to be frantic to get into one of the shelters, get set up, and start anew. Bandy smiled slightly. Getting him to position so much of his equipment and supplies in the shelters was brilliant, Angus, by the way. It has really put him at a disadvantage compared to what he might have been. Cant really take credit for that, Angus said, smiling himself. That was Junior, working through Boots. Somehow Junior convinced Boots and Boots convinced Colin. Junior looked embarrassed as the others looked at him with approval in their eyes. Boots was all for it, Junior said. Seems he was one of the ones that was always having to move and hide things over and over.

It was only seconds after Junior spoke when the gate annunciator sounded, making everyone jump, including Bandy. Who could that possibly be? Angus asked, moving over to the monitor so he could both hear and see the person at the gate. Anyone recognize him? He was pressing the talk button. Who are you and what do you want? Im Boots McKinnley. I know Junior. I need some help. Let me in, please. Thats not Junior was saying, studying the image on the screen. Oh. I guess it is, too. It looks like hes been in a wreck or something. There is dried blood all over him. Come on, Junior! came Boots voice, much more loudly. I know youre in there! I need help! Colin is going to kill me! Junior looked at Angus. Angus and the others looked at Bandy. Junior turned his eyes to Bandy, too. What do we do? Angus asked. I suggest you to just let him rant and rave all he wants. I suspect it is a trap. What if he is telling the truth? Junior asked. Maybe he can help us get Colin! Angus looked hopeful, but all eyes turned back to the screen and they listened as Boots began yelling. Come on, Junior! He blames me for letting you guys get most of our stuff! Hell kill me! He beat me up already, Junior!

Hawkins? Angus asked. It is a trap. Bandy was adamant. Boots was visibly crying, shaking the gate. Ill tell him he has to leave, Junior said, sounding sick. No, son. That is my job, Angus said. Angus pressed the talk button. Go away, boy. You got yourself into this. If you are telling the truth. Im sorry. If you arent, be thankful we are turning you away. Youd be the first to die in an attack if we let you in. The tears were suddenly gone. Everyone in the shelter saw Boots turn around and lift a hand held radio to his face. The young man had no idea how sensitive the microphone and camera were. They arent buying it, Colin. What do you want me to do? Not only did Boots have the volume on the radio up, Colin was obviously shouting into his own radio. You stay right there! Well try something else, when I get there. Again, all eyes in the shelter went to Bandy. It was a trap, Desiree said softly. Bandy nodded his arms across his chest. Ana-Bella was standing next to him, their sides almost touching. The eyes went back to the monitor when Colins pickup truck came sliding to a stop, its engine and exhaust so loud that Desiree put her hands over her ears. But the sound didnt last long. Colin turned off the engine and climbed down out of the truck. He looked around, as if looking for the

camera. I know you can see me up there in that fancy shelter, Longhammer! his voice nearly a screech. Im giving you one last chance to come out of there and turn it over to me! You dont do it right now and your family will pay a terrible price when I do get in! It was almost a scream, now. There was silence for a few moments. Then Colin did, in fact, scream wildly. You dont think Ill do it? You dont think Ill kill your whole family? But make them suffer first? You dont believe me? Well, you just watch this! Colin backhanded Boots viciously with the pistol he held. Boots was caught totally unawares and staggered. He went down. Before he could scramble away, Colin kicked him. Boots began to scream as three of Colins men joined Colin in kicking and stomping the helpless young man. Of the women in the shelter, only Ana-Bella watched to the end, when Colin finally waved his men away and leaned forward over Boots limp body. His pistol came up and he fired three rounds into Boots head. Colin screamed again, facing the house. You just signed your familys death warrant, Longhammer! Just like this punk that talked me into giving you my stuff. And that boy of yours will get the same thing! You hear me! The same thing for talking him into it! But that girl of yours! Ive got special plans for her! Yes, I do! Shell live a long time, while you watch what I do to her! Only then will you die. Nice and slow, too. Pointing the pistol toward the house, even though it was out of sight, Colin emptied the magazine of 9mmP rounds in that direction.

Angus, Bob, Junior, Bandy, and Ana-Bella watched the monitor as Colin marched toward his truck, his men scurrying before him. Colin paused only once, to swing another kick at the dead Boots, before getting into the truck, firing it up, and pulling away, his men holding on tightly in the back of the truck. Hes gone totally over the edge, Ana-Bella managed to whisper, struggling to hold back the bile that was trying to rise in her throat. And no telling what he might do next, Angus said. What if he does that to someone else? He was looking at Junior. Out of spite for what Ive done? Junior murmured a shaken Excuse me, and ran for a bathroom to throw up. The others heard the retching before the door swung closed. You cant blame yourself for Colins actions, Bandy said. Hes right, Angus. Bob added his words to Bandys, trying to get Angus to put the thought that he was responsible for what had happened, or might happen to others. That man is totally nuts. There is no telling what he will do. But you cant let yourself take on the responsibility of what he might do. It will drive you nuts. Or, Bandy said softly, cause you to do something that will endanger your family or others in trying to avoid that guilt. It isnt your fault. Colin would have found someone to do what he wanted. Someone not as capable as you and your family to see and understand what he was and is and prevent him from doing the worst he could do. It could be ten times worse right now if he had snookered someone else into doing what he tried to get you to do.

June, Magdalene and Desiree came back into the main room of the shelter. Desiree was still shaking as if she was cold. Angus moved over and put an arm around her. Is it over? Desiree whispered. Yes, Ana-Bella said gently. Why dont you and I go get something ready for supper? Im not very hungry, Desiree said. Nor am I, a pale faced Junior added as he stepped back into the room, too. Perhaps not, but doing something is better than not doing anything, June said. We all need to be doing something right now. Not dwelling on what happened. Yeah, Junior said. I think Ill try to do some homework. I dont want to get too far behind on my studies. Ill help you with that, June said. Shed started the two youngest members of the group on a home schooling program early on in the shelter stay. And I think Ill help in the kitchen, Magdalene added as the group began to break up. If you will excuse me, said Bandy, Im going to see what else I can find out on the Amateur bands. Angus and Bob eyed one another. I think we n eed to discuss a few things, Bob said quietly. The two moved over to one corner of the room and sat down, almost knee to knee, while Bandy took a seat at the Longhammer shelter communications desk.

The first thing Bandy did was warn the employees at the Sheridan Ranch that Colin might be out and about, with murder on his mind. Bob had put Brewster Amhurst in charge of the place for whenever the family was not there to take command of any situation that came up. Amhurst was ex-US military. Retired as a Captain in the Quartermaster Corps, after years of front line combat duties, and an acknowledged expert on working horses, Brewster pretty much ran the place for Bob, anyway. But Bob did oversee everything with a close eye. Easy going most of the time, those that worked at the Sheridan Ranch knew that Amhurst could exhibit the hard nose command abilities required when needed, and respected him for that. And he was a major part of the reason almost all of the employees continued to work for the Ranch. Not only was he a good boss, but he knew what was needed to handle the current situation, using the personnel at the Ranch to the best of their abilities. So Bandy was secure in the knowledge that if Colin did show up at the Sheridan Ranch the way he had here at the Longhammers, that things would be handled well. Bandy was still trying to gather information from the Amateur Network that was operating when Bob came over, with Angus, and told Bandy, Bandy, Magdalene, Ana-Bella, and I are headed back over to the Ranch. What are your plans? Bandy waivered for a moment. He felt a responsibility to Angus and the Longhammer family. But Colin had already been here, and the Longhammers were well ensconced in the shelter. As long as they stayed where they were, they would be all right. It wasnt all that far between the two ranches, but with Colin in the mood he was in, Bandy wasnt going to take a chance on the Sheridans being ambushed on the way home.

He caught the relieved look on Bobs face when Bandy said, Im going to escort you guys over. Then Ill decide what to do after that. Im thinking He let his words trail off when the others joined the three of them. Well, Im not sure about what Ill do, but we can get going any time youre ready, Bob. Bandy caught the look that Ana-Bella gave him. She, like her father, looked a bit relieved, but it was tempered with some anxiety, as well. For him, not herself or her family. I will check the monitors while you all get ready, Angus said, moving over to the chair that Bandy had just left. Bandy looked at Ana-Bella for a moment, then over at Bob. Im going out to scout around and get my truck ready. Ana-Bella was about to protest, but it was Junior that asked, What do you have to do to get your truck ready? Its even parked on the garage apron, headed down the drive. The others all saw the look that went over Bandys face for a fraction of a second. It was a look that Angus had seen before. A feral look. Bandy didnt go into details, but did respond to Juniors questio n, more to make sure none of the families every tried to use his truck for something without making arrangements with him, first. I have a few surprises for anyone trying anything with the truck. It does take me a minute or so to disarm well, deactivate what is activated and reactivate what is inactivated. Junior obviously wanted to know more. And Ana-Bella was curious. But Bandy was already over at the inner blast door of the shelter. I will radio when Im ready. He looked over at Angus.

Looks all clear, Hawkins, Angus said. But I am discovering a couple of holes in the surveillance we need to address. Okay, Bandy said. He un-dogged the blast door and went through. As theyd all been taught, Junior immediately closed and dogged it shut again before Bandy opened the outer blast door. Ana-Bella hurriedly got her things together and went over to stand behind Angus to watch the security monitors. She could see Bandy almost the entire time he was moving around the house, checking things out. She wished he would draw his gun and have it ready, but he was simply moving cautiously, obviously ready to draw if needed. Then Bandy disappeared. He left the view of one camera and didnt show up on the next in line. I think he found one of the holes, Angus said quietly. Where is he? Ana-Bella asked, leaning forward now, studying each monitor in turn. Well, if he stayed in the blind spot, hes right here, Angus said, pointing to a spot on the map of the grounds that was on the wall over the monitors with all the cameras and sensors marked on it. Wait! There he is! How did he get over there? Ana-Bella asked. That boy is good, Bob said. Angus agreed. He scoped the vulnerable spots out in just a couple of minutes. I definitely have to fix that. Everyone jumped when the short range radio broke squelch. They hadnt seen Bandy lift his radio up.

Good to go. Give me thirty seconds to get into position and then come on out. Lets go, Sweetheart, Bob said, taking the canvas bag from his wife that had a few things shed brought over for the Sheriff to use. She was closer in size to her than June was. The bag was now partially filled with some things the Longhammers would use if they had to come to the Sheridan shelter. Ana-Bella took a long last look at the monitor, losing sight of Bandy again, before she hurried over to the shelter main entrance. Junior was right there to operate the door for them. They were in Bobs pickup, Ana-Bella in the front passenger seat of the big crew cab one-ton four by four, with Magdalene buckled in the rear seat. The truck was inside the garage. Just as the Longhammers had access to the Sheridan home, the Sheridans had access to the Longhammers. Bob pressed the button to open the garage door, drove out, and pressed it again to close the new, much heavier door. Looking frantically around, Ana-Bella couldnt spot Bandy until he suddenly rose up from beside his truck, got in and took off ahead of them. Apparently hed already had the truck running, for he was in it and on the way before Bob could react. Once on the road, Bandy cautioned Bob to have Magdalene and Ana-Bella keep an eye on the road behind them, and to the right side. And to drop back far enough so they could just see his truck. Ana-Bella didnt like it much, but Bob thought it was a good idea and did as Bandy suggested. They made it to the Sheridan Ranch without incident.

Brewster was waiting for them, squatted down at the corner of the garage so he could watch the driveway for them to come up. Bandy smiled when he saw the rifle Brewster had in his hands when he stood up as Bandy turned his truck around on the garage apron. It was a rifle capable of stopping a vehicle at more than a thousand yards, and taking out a person at twice that distance. Bandy had one similar. Bandy made a snap decision. Ana-Bella, he knew, would probably want to skin him alive, but he decided he would be more effective at the Longhammer Dealership than at either home. So he headed back down the drive. He barely had the microphone in his hand to explain when AnaBellas annoyed voice came over the radio. Where are you going? The Dealership, Bandy replied. Ill be in a better position to do something from there than if Im in one of the shelters at the homes. Probably should have been there before. This might all have been over by now. Bandy! Ana-Bella protested. Bandy heard Bob cut her off just before she un-keyed the microphone. Bandy sighed in relief. Let Bob take the brunt of her anger. And he was pretty sure Bob would not let her follow Bandy towards town, using the same arguments as before.

Options Are Good Chapter 8 Making sure those in the Dealership knew he was coming, Bandy broke radio protocols by intentionally staying on longer and giving more information than was needed to get the message across. Ana-Bella wasnt the only one that thought it strange. Colin didnt think it was strange. He just assumed Bandy was stupid. Which was good. For now Colin knew just exactly where Bandy was. Everything had gone downhill from the time that he saw Bandy Hawkins at the Longhammer place. And it was now obvious the only business he had in the area was to interfere with Colins plans. He would pay for that. Dearly, Colin vowed. When he arrived, Bandy was satisfied with the security arrangements. He did not get into the shelter until the occupants made sure it was him, and that he was alone. As Bob had done at the Sheridan Ranch, Angus had placed his top manager in charge. She too was ex-military, though her branch had been the US Coast Guard. But she had seen plenty of action in Florida as team commander of a boarding team. She had returned to town the day after Colin had attacked the first time. Louella Hastings had been on a buying trip for Angus when the computer Intelligence took over. Something of a prepper from way back, she had enough gear with her to make it back and take on the responsibilities of keeping the Farm Supply and Implement Dealership safe and sound. Also like the Sheridan Ranch, almost all of the employees had decided to stay at the business after going home to get a few things, including their families. The risk of Colins Militia taking one or more of them as hostages had prompted Angus to make the offer. It had been one of Bandys suggestions. Both to have the shelter large enough and

equipped properly for it, and to make the offer for safe haven for the employees. The three that chose not to stay had not stayed locally, either. All three families had packed up and headed for other places, so were in no danger from Colin. It was two days before Colin made his move. This time it was a concerted attack at the Sheridan Ranch just before dark. As soon as the Dealership shelter got the news, Bandy headed for the door. But before he left he talked quietly, but urgently, to Louella. After she acknowledged his words with a nod of her head, Bandy was gone. Rather reluctantly, Louella made the radio call to the Sheridans that Bandy was on his way. With a large fighting force. They would come up behind the Militia and hit them from there. Angus was livid and got on the radio to lambast Louella for broadcasting in the clear that information. Louella smiled and transmitted one word. Angus did not respond, as she and Bandy knew he wouldnt, upon hearing that cod e word. The word was Sherlock, referencing Sherlock Holmes statement that things were afoot, meaning that Bandy was up to something. Bob, Magdalene, and Ana-Bella all heard the set of transmissions. Bob from the fighting position he was in facing the driveway and Magdalene from the bunker communications and monitoring desk in the shelter. Ana-Bella asked out loud, from the new armored cupola on top of the ranch house, What is he up to now? She heard shots and swung the binoculars around in that direction.

Brewster Amhurst had his handpicked team out, taking on the Militia over a slight rise, where they had cut through one of the pipe and wire fences to gain entry. Brewsters quiet, powerful voice came over the different frequency they were using for tactical situations close in. They are withdrawing. Permission to pursue? There are only a few of them. Negative, Bob said immediately. Dont want us firing at the Cavalry coming. Brewster smiled. Hed heard all the same transmissions Bob had. There was no Cavalry coming. Bandy was up to something. So hed play it out with Bandys plan, whatever it was. He called for a maintenance team to come out to repair the fence while his team held their positions to protect them. Ana-Bella met her father at the entrance to the shelter. What is Bandy doing? she asked Bob. I have no idea. Im not even sure he has anyone with him. Or the whole fighting force that Angus has at the dealership. They might be setting up an ambush, knowing we would be able to drive the Militia off. Bob shrugged his shoulders and opened the shelter outer door after Magdalene unlocked it when Bob stated the okay word for the trip. Wait a minute, Ana-Bella said, stopping just inside the inner door of the shelter. It looked and sounded like a major attack. But Amhurst said there were just a few of the Militia. She looked at her father for a second, alarm obvious on her. Im going out there to see what is going on!

No, Sweetheart, Bob said, dogging down the door latches. Same reasons as before. You are certainly a good shot, and sharp as a tack, but whatever it is that Hawkins is doing, he is counting on you to be here, safe and sound, so he doesnt have to worry about you being taken as a hostage. Or worse. And it is going to be full dark in just a few minutes. And you know how dark it is outside now. That excuse is getting really old, Ana-Bella said her annoyance more than a little obvious. Bob sighed quietly in relief when Ana-Bella headed for the communications desk. Apparently she blamed Bandy and not him. Which was good. Rather cheerfully, considering the circumstances, Bob headed for the kitchen area of the shelter to get something for a snack. Hed learned that there was more to Bandy Hawkins than surface appearances. Bandy didnt head for the Sheridans Ranch at all. He drove out of sight of the Dealership and stopped. It was only the matter of a few minutes and Bandy had his radio direction finding antenna rigged and was back in the truck. He waited for an hour, until he heard one of Colins men radio, He aint coming, Cousin. What you want us to do? Come on back. The coward is probably hiding in the bathroom of that weasels shelter. Colin actually sounded disappointed. Bandy keyed the mike of his radio and taunted Colin. Ive got you in my sights, Colin. Boys, you guys with him better scatter so you dont get caught in the cross fire. All I want is Colin. And well be shooting everything that moves since it is so dark out here. In all the shelters glances were exchanged, surprise and consternation in several of them. What is he doing? Ana-Bella whispered her eyes on the radio. He is going to get himself killed!

Bob kept his mouth shut. This was unexpected. He was beginning to wonder if his earlier thoughts might be off base. Angus and Junior were discussing the situation, trying to figure out what Bandy was doing, too. Only Louella Hastings and Brewster Amhurst had any idea what Bandy might be doing. Both recognized the technique he was using. Bandy had barely un-keyed the mike when Colins screaming voice was blaring through the speaker. His other hand already on the loop antenna handle, Bandy quickly swiveled it until the signal faded to its lowest level. Ignoring Colins screaming rant, Bandy calmly took a compass reading on the direction ninety degrees from the null signal direction. With only the red LED lights on in the cab of the truck, Bandy drew a line on the map of the county he had made ready earlier. That done, Bandy turned off the red LEDs, picked up and put on his night vision goggles, and by feel, opened the small panel in the console of the truck and turned on the infrared driving lights mounted on the front bumper push bar and then put the truck in gear. Almost silently, and nearly invisible in the darkness to anyone not using sophisticated equipment, Bandy drove quickly to another spot, taking into account where he thought Colin might be, and the first bearing hed made with the RDF antenna. Bandy thought even Colin might get a clue, so he was only expecting the trick to work one more time. So when he was set, he really went on a rant of his own, his voice low, soft, and slow, to trigger at least one more radio response from Colin.

It worked better than Bandy had even hoped. For over fifteen minutes Colin described in great detail what he was going to do to Bandy and every one of the Sheridans and the Longhammers. As soon as he had the second RFD bearing, Bandy changed positions and was able to get a third bearing that pinned down Colins location very closely. Either Colin ran out of steam, one of his men convinced him to shut up, or the battery of the radio ran out of juice, because there was no response for the several minutes Bandy stayed and waited for another outburst. Satisfied he knew Colins current location, Bandy headed for a location hed scouted out earlier. It was the matter of only a few minutes before hed secured the truck, moved a hundred yards away, eaten a handful of jerky and another of GORP, followed by a long draught of water, and slipped into his sleeping bag. Bandy was up and on the move by three in the morning, having slipped into a jacket due to the light wind and cool temperature. Again with the IR vision gear on, he headed toward Colins location. He stopped well before reaching the place in a spot hed picked out on his topographic map. It wasnt much cover, but it was the best available. After gearing up, Bandy made his way toward the small farm Colin had taken over on the opposite side of the county from his uncles place. A couple of minutes to set up and fifty rounds of .308 peppered the area around the house, and through it in areas that Brandy was fairly sure no one occupied. He slipped another of the drum magazines into the rifle and headed back to the truck. He smiled when he saw the beams from hand held flashlights being waved all around in his mirrors as he drove away. He was sure he heard shots.

But then Bandys attention went to the radio. Colin was screaming something unintelligible. This time Bandy didnt respond. It would now be a harassment game, with no communication on his part. It would infuriate Colin even more, not getting a vocal response, than it would if Bandy answered every time. Colin did not like being ignored. The silence would be hard on those in the shelters, Bandy knew, especially Ana-Bella, but he was determined to finish things as soon as possible, and would not be going back to any of the shelters or answering radio calls until Colin was run off. Or dead. Bandy guessed wrong where Colin would attack. He had the Sheridan ranch staked out, ready with Vigilance VR-1 .408 CheyTac long range sniper rifle he had picked up on his buying jag before the event. But from the radio chatter, Colin had directed an intense attack at the Longhammers. So Bandy just packed things up, found another place to hide out, and spent most of the rest of the day and night sleeping, his minimal camp set up the same as that first night. It was a tossup whether Colin had changed locations or not. On the off chance he hadnt, Bandy picked another place well away from the farm and hiked toward it, keeping a very sharp eye out. Sure enough, he spotted two men keeping watch a hundred yards from the house. One was smoking and the other one had a bad cough, making them easy to spot. Bandy debated for a long time about what to do. He still could not bring himself to simply kill them from a distance, without warning. But he was not adverse to taking them out of the picture for a while.

So, twenty minutes later, when he dumped another fifty rounds of .308 slugs in and around the house, the two men were tied and gagged, out of the way. When Bandy quickly went back to the two men, he stood over them, his shiny stainless steel Spyderco Harpy folding knife in his hand. Even with just the starlight, the wicked looking serrated hooked blade glimmered brightly. Suddenly, making both men struggle to get loose, as they tried to scream through the Gorilla tape on their mouths, Bandy went to one knee, between them. The Harpy swung quickly and the tape on the mens wrists was slashed most of the way through. With the warning that if he found them again, he would kill them on sight ringing in their ears, each was deciding on which plan to use to get away from both Colin and Bandy without getting killed as they worked on the last strands of tape to get their hands loose after Bandy disappeared into the darkness. There were no light beams behind him this time when Bandy drove away using the night vision technology. And it was over an hour later, with Bandy already in his sleeping bag, when Colins voice broke the squelch on Bandys handheld radio. His voice was a bit more controlled, but he again ranted and raved, demanding to know where his three men were. Bandy had to smile. Apparently the two had approached at least one other of those out on guard duty and convinced him to leave the area with them. Again Bandy held his peace. Colin, after waiting almost ten minutes for Bandy to respond lost it again and was screaming his threats to Bandy and everyone else. With his truck alarms set, and the perimeter alarms around his little camp, Bandy slept soundly for a few hours, but was awake in plenty of

time to get to a good spot to watch the road leading from the farm the Militia had used. Sure enough, about ten oclock in the morning, five vehicles left the farm and turned onto the county line highway, headed further from town. His truck hidden, as always, Bandy watched through his powerful binoculars as the five pickups all came to a halt when one of the drivers radioed that his vehicle was out of gasoline. Bandy had the VR-1 with him, and probably could have taken Colin out when Colin ran up to one of the trucks and began to rail at the man through the open window of the truck. He couldnt hear what was being said, but he did hear the shots from Colins gun when Colin emptied his pistol magazine through the sheet metal of the door. It caught Bandy by surprise, with Colins men even more surprised. There were many looks exchanged, but everyone that was outside their vehicle got back in. The four trucks took off. Bandy continued to watch both the shot up truck, and the road into the farm, just in case Colin had left someone behind in ambush. A few minutes after the other trucks had left, Bandy watched as one man struggled out of the passenger side of the truck, came around the front of it and collapsed onto the road, falling onto one side. Bandy could see the blood on his clothes. Bandy felt sick, but maintained position. And was glad he had when two men cautiously made their way out of the brush by the junction of the highway and the road into the farm. Both walked over to the truck, looked around for a few minutes, and then obviously got into an argument.

Hearing the shouting, but not able to understand the words, Bandy was not too surprised when both men tried to pull handguns. One was much faster than the other and had fired before the other mans gun cleared his holster. Stepping up to the man, as he still struggled to get his gun out, the man still on his feet shot the downed man in the forehead. Looking around often, the remaining live man began to strip the dead men and the truck of useful items. He did not get much, from what Bandy could see. But when he was finished looking, the man, with one last look down the highway in the direction the other trucks had taken, turned around and took off in a slow trot the other way. If Bandy had his numbers right, Colin was down to himself and either nine, or at most, eleven other men. Deciding to leave the truck where it was, Bandy slung the VR-1 and made his cautious way down to the highway, staying well away from the gory site in and around the truck. He walked along the edge of the road in toward the farm, his pistol in hand. The VR-1 was a long range rifle and heavy. Bandy preferred to have the pistol ready for anything up close than try to handle the rifle in point blank shooting. But neither gun was needed. Bandy breathed a sigh of relief after he had checked the farmhouse out thoroughly. There were no signs that any of the rounds hed fired into the house had hit anyone. Heading back to the truck, Bandy hurried. He intended to follow Colins short convoy and find out where he was going to hole up next . But one of the typical Oklahoma weather patterns interfered with his plans. The sudden darkness of thick, greenish clouds had Bandy headed for the nearest place he knew he could shelter from any tornado the super cell might drop.

He was glad he did, when he stopped at the high school on the edge of town and parked the truck in the corner formed by two of the masonry walls of the school. Bandy got ready to dive into the storm shelter the school had put in shortly after the last tornado had torn through, killing three people and barely missing the school building. He stopped at the door and watched the approaching storm. The overhang of the building protected him from the heavy hail and rain. Then he heard the sound hed heard twice before, and didnt w ait any longer. He went into the shelter and dogged the door closed, not waiting to try and see the tornado he was sure was close. It was not long and it was over. Bandy went outside and checked on the truck. It had shifted a couple of inches, with the front bumper now touching one of the school walls. But it was intact. Walking out where he could see all around, Bandy checked the sky. The storm was disappearing quickly. It took only a moment of internal debate for Bandy to decide to stay where he was. Hed find Colin again, later. Assuming he hadnt been killed by the tornado. It had come from the direction Colin was headed. Bandy also decided to break radio silence. He spoke only a few words, and did not respond to Ana-Bellas immediate response. But he had let everyone know that he was alright and Colin was still on the loose. After moving a few things into the shelter, throwing a camouflage cover over the truck right where it was, and setting the alarms, Bandy stayed in the school storm shelter for two days as more storms passed through. He didnt see or hear any more tornadoes, but did see and hear enough lightning and thunder to last him for a while.

In the early morning of the third day Bandy packed up and headed down the highway, intent on finding Colins newest hideout. Hed barely gone a mile when the scanner broke squelch. The reception wasnt very good. Bandy only heard a snippet here and there, but it was enough to learn that someone had hit a farm just over the county line, outside the next town over. Bandy gunned the engine and kept going at high speed. He was careful, but the miles passed quickly, as did the time. When he got closer he was able to hear more of the radio discussion by the group that was trying to get to the farm. But they were blocked by some of the tornado damage from the previous days. Bandy was on the right side of the damage to be able to get to the farm. And he did. But he didnt go in driving the truck, guns blazing, the way he wanted to. Instead, as always, he cached the truck, prepared himself and headed the rest of the way to the farm. He nearly lost his breakfast when he saw the carnage in the yard. Two of Colins men, cloths around their mouth and nose, were in the process of moving five bodies from where they had been killed. By the looks of it three of them had been lined up and shot from behind. It made Bandy ill to see that the three that had been shot were just children. But the reason he nearly threw up, and the men were wearing the cloths on their faces, was the fact that the two adults had been hacked and slashed with a machete, which was on the ground by the dead children. Bandy prayed that the two had been dead when theyd been butchered. Grim, his jaw set, Bandy swung the PTR-91 around from its slung position and stepped out from behind a tree on the edge of the property. He whistled softly.

Both men let go of the body they were moving, and spun around, their hands going to their own slung rifles. Bandy waited what seemed an eternity, but one of them finally got his gun up and pulled the trigger. It was a wild shot, as Bandy was expecting. Bandys two shots werent. He shot the first man in the chest, and as that man fell and the other man triggered a burst that went into the ground at his own feet, Bandy shot him. Another heart shot. Finally moving, quickly, Bandy headed for a secure spot as men began to storm out of the house. But Bandy was already down and ready with the rifle bipod flipped down. The men began to scatter when Bandy opened up, dropping three more before accurate full auto fire from inside the house came his way. Bandy would not risk a wound at this point and wiggled backwards, dragging the PTR-91 with him. When the firing stopped Bandy got up and began to run. Away from the driveway of the farm. It took him three hours to get back to his truck. Twice, early on, magazine full long bursts nearly got him as someone chased after him. He was more intent in getting away to fight another day than take on someone that, despite poor fire control, was good enough to get that close to him. It was the matter of only moments to turn off the defensive systems of the truck, get in, and be gone when he reached it. Bandy stopped after some distance and checked his topo map for a good hiding and camping spot. But as he headed to what was going to be a marginal location, but the best one close enough to keep an eye on the highway, Bandy spotted a heavily damaged house about a half a mile north of the road. On a

hunch, just from the looks of the tornado devastated home, Bandy turned onto the gravel road and headed for it. He smiled when he got there and investigated the damage. It was a terrible shame that the house was destroyed, but it would work just fine for his current purposes. The two car garage faced away from the highway, and was only partially destroyed. After checking to see if the thing would stand up, Bandy worked for an hour, but was confident enough of the place to back the pickup inside. The glass patio doors were shattered, but like the garage, two walls of the family room were still intact, with the roof angled down to the ground on the other side. Bandy again checked for the safety of the place, and for a safe way out the other side. When he was satisfied he could safely set up camp in the partial room, and had two ways in and out, he began to clean things up a little. By dark, breathing a bit easier, the shock of the morning encounter behind him, Bandy turned in for a full nights sleep, comfortable that the sensors hed set out would warn him of any approach. Bandy stayed where he was the next day, monitoring the radio. There were repeated calls from Ana-Bella, which Colin seemed delighted to answer with all sorts of dire threats toward her, what hed already done to Bandy, and what he would do to Ana-Bellas family and the Longhammers. But it didnt take long for Ana-Bella to figure out that Colin was lying about Bandy, as Colin again began to tell her what he was going to do to Bandy when he caught him. When Ana-Bella challenged Colin on it, Colin went ballistic, yet again, screaming curses for a good fifteen minutes before the rant stopped.

From the way the signal faded and then suddenly stopped, Bandy was sure the battery went dead, rather than Colin running out of steam. But hed talked plenty long enough for Bandy to triangulate his location once more. Colin had moved, but not far. According to the topo map, there was another farm about a mile away, down the same road that served the first one. There had been nothing from the people that had been trying to get to the farm from the other town, and Bandy decided not to break radio silence to give them the bad news. Ana-Bella, with the base antennas at the Sheridan Ranch, had been able to hear them, and had warned them about Colin. So, Bandy supposed, they were keeping a low profile. Bandy began to think about another attack. Hed eliminated at least four more of Colins men. That meant only three to six more. But of the ones left, at least one was very good, and the other probably the best of the original bunch when it came to creating mayhem. So Bandy waited another day, watching the junction of the county road and the highway. He was caught by surprise when Colins four trucks came barreling down the gravel and made sliding turns onto the highway. He heard the rifle fire then. One truck swerved out of control and flipped twice. The drivers door flew open and the driver went flying. Bandy saw him hit the pavement, his head splitting wide open on contact. And then Bandy heard the radio break squelch again. We got them on the run! Im going after them! Negative! Negative! RTB! RTB! It is too dangerous. Let them over there take care of them. They came from that county, anyway.

A subdued, 10-4 sounded and Bandy quickly ran back to the house to break camp and take off after Colin. The Return To Base command had been that of someone used to authority. As Bandy pulled out onto the highway, he heard Ana-Bellas voice repeatedly asking if Bandy was all right. Again Bandy stayed quiet. Until she said, with the mike still keyed, Im going to go lo The transmission cut off. Bandy grabbed the mike of his radio and keyed it up, hurriedly telling Ana-Bella to stay where she was. But when he un-keyed, Colin was talking. Another rant. About how he had Bandy and what he was going to do to him. And where the deed would be done. Silence came and Bandy tried to speak before Colin could again. But there was a dead carrier each time he un-keyed. Someone was smart enough to be keeping the mobile radio keyed to block the frequency. Bandy quickly switched channels and tried again. He got through to the Sheridan Ranch this time. But it was Bob that answered. Shes already gone, Hawkins! She slipped out when I wasnt looking! Im going after her with my team. At least you are okay. Knowing it would do no good, Bandy didnt even try to talk Bob out of it. Nor Angus when Angus said he and Junior would be out looking for her, too. That was followed quickly by the Longhammer Dealership commander saying the same thing. Maybe that is better, thought Bandy for a second or so. But he knew better. If Ana-Bella was headed to the spot Colin had mentioned, there was no way any of the others could reach it before Ana-Bella and Colin did. And him. Bandy put the accelerator to the floor as he flipped a switch to bypass the super quiet mufflers and the big diesel bellowed, now unfettered completely.

A fast, smooth gear change and Bandy was doing a hundred and twenty, intending to get to the little fueling stop and convenience store before either Colin or Ana-Bella did.

Options Are Good Chapter 9 Bandy knew he was quickly running out of options as he came up on the three truck convoy speeding down the highway. There was no sign of Ana-Bella. He had the Glock 21 .45 in his right hand. But he slipped it under his right thigh and gripped the steering wheel firmly. Hed slowed when he came up to the rear pickup. But he pressed the accelerator again and rammed the vehicle in front of him. Like the other vehicle, this one swerved and went off the road at high speed. But it bounced out across the road ditch, through a barbed wire fence, and swerved again trying to avoid a pond in the path. But instead of missing the pond, the truck rolled, winding up in the small pond, sinking out of sight, upside down. Bandy didnt slow down or hang around to see if the man made it out. He really didnt care. The man was out of the action, and that was all that mattered. Bandy himself had to start swerving back and forth, and backed off his speed when a man leaned out of the passenger side of the second truck and let go with half a dozen single shots, and then emptied the magazine in full auto. He was still slowing down, and swerving, but the man was able to bring that last burst onto line. Bandy heard the .223 bullets bouncing off his radiator armor. When the windshield of the truck shattered, he felt the cuts on his face and hands from the glass, and then the burning sting of a round going through the skin of his left arm. But it was the last round fired. Ignoring the burning pain, Bandy straightened the truck and accelerated again while the passenger tried to reload. But the driver of the other truck was swerving back and forth now, too, and the gunner simply could not get the fresh magazine inserted.

Bandy had to back off again. Ramming the other vehicle now was too dangerous, so Bandy eased off a bit more. He could see the buildings on the right hand side of the highway up ahead, and though he could not be sure, he thought Ana-Bellas big white Ram crew cab one ton pickup was parked there. He nearly lost control of the truck, as he was trying to see for sure if Ana-Bella was there, when the truck in front of him braked hard. Bandy nearly hit the truck, but swerved in time. But it put him up even with the drivers side window of the other truck. Bandy slammed on his brakes just in time to avoid the flurry of handgun rounds the driver shot at him through the other trucks open drivers side window. Bandy never said what he was thinking, or really even described what happened next. But Ana-Bella saw it all, and was not reluctant to tell anyone that would listen what occurred as the three trucks turned into the parking lot of the abandoned and stripped fuel stop and convenience store. It was amazing! I was so excited to see that Bandy wasnt a captive that I didnt move quick enough when Colin slid to a stop behind my truck, blocking it in. By the time I got out of the truck, with my pistol, Colin was already there. He knocked the gun out of my hand, and then backhanded me in the face with his gun. Bandy saw it even as he dove out of his truck, after ramming the drivers side of the second of Colins pickups. I dont know how he did it. He rolled over three times and then started to fire at the two men in that pickup truck.

The passenger was out of the truck, shooting over the back of the bed of the truck, just behind the cab, but he went down when Bandy shot his ankles out from under him. The driver managed to get out on the passen ger side, too. For some reason Bandy didnt just shoot him. He waited until the man came around the front of the truck, firing as he came. Bandy dropped him with one shot. When I looked at Bandy again, after Colin yanked me around in front of himself for protection, I could see the blood all over his upper body and head. And when he climbed to his feet, he was limping from the bullet that the doctor had to take out of the back of his left calf later. Bandy walked toward us, putting his pistol back in the holster. He took one glance at me, but then his eyes and they were blazing, I tell you, went to Colin. Even holding me in front of him and us behind the truck, I felt Colin start to tremble. He put the gun to my head then and warned Bandy. Ill kill her! You come one step closer and Ill kill her! You let me in your truck and Ill drive away. And Ill turn her lose when I get far enough so I know you cant catch me. His voice was squeaky and I could tell he was scared. The gun barrel was right against my temple and he kept punching it inward enough to really hurt. Bandy did stop, and then he did well what he did. Ill never forget it. I thought he was crazy. Not really sure he wasnt at that point in time. But his voice was so cold. So hard. And it scared Colin even more. But Colin, being the person he was, could not resist the challenge and the insult when Bandy told him, Me and you, Colin, mano -a-mano. You keep your gun the way it is, I drop my magazine and have only one

round. Ten feet. I want to see the fear in your eyes when you go down like the rabid dog you are. Ill kill her! I will kill her! Colin screamed. Then he did what I think Bandy knew he would. He pushed me away and turned the gun on Bandy. I almost fell down, the push was so hard, but I grabbed the side of the truck and saw the ending. Bandy just stood there and let Colin fire a round before he drew his own gun again. And it was like magic! I cant honestly say I saw his arm and hand move, but suddenly his gun went off one time, and Colin went down with the bullet actually right between his eyes. Ana-Bella would always close her eyes at this point, sigh a bit, and then smile as she ended the story, Then Bandy looked over at me and said, Im not real happy with you right now for leaving the ranch, AnaBella Sheridan. But, other than that, would you marry me? Moments later three sets of vehicles pulled onto the parking lot and people were swarming all over the place, including Sheriff Broadhearst, on crutches, but armed. That was the first time she told the story, as two of the experienced paramedics in the group worked on Bandys injuries while he sat there on the tailgate of his truck just ignoring everything. It wasnt until some of them were back in the living room at the Sheridan Ranch, including the Sheriff, the Longhammers, Brewster Amhurst, Louella Hastings, and Ana-Bella, Magdalene, Bob, and the patched up Bandy that Brewster brought up the subject of Bandys time in service, right out of the blue. Ana-Bella looked curious, but Magdalene was far more so. Shed known from that first time in the kitchen there was something about his military career he wouldnt talk about.

That whole deal with the Lieutenant and you, in Iraq There was no truth in that, was there? Bandy sighed. Perhaps it was time to get it off his chest. Ana-Bella had a right to know what had happened. The kind of man hed been accused of being. Oh, there was truth in the story. Just not the whole truth , and with some of the story fabricated, Bandy said quietly. He lifted his head and looked over at Ana-Bella. I was accused of cowardice two days before I rotated home. But that was all he said. He just looked at Ana-Bella, as if waiting for her to tell him to get out of the house and never come back. There has to be more to the story, Magdalene said. Something doesnt sound right. Again she decided asking Bandy about it would be counterproductive. She looked at Brewster. You know more than you are telling. Brewster nodded and looked at Bandy in turn. Deciding he couldnt make the situation any worse than Bandy already thought it was, he spoke up. The way the story goes, is that Sergeant Hawkins hid behind his Lieutenant during a firefight. The Lieutenant was a woman. Pretty good reputation as I understand it. After the firefight was over, they found the Lieutenant, alive but unconscious, propped up against a boulder, with Hawkins on the ground right up against her back. He was out, too. But his M4 was in the hands of the Lieutenant, with a pile of magazines beside her, and seven dead insurgents dead at ranges from six feet out to about ten yards. And her M9 was empty, on the ground, beside her right leg. Both of them had taken three AK rounds each, but only one missed the vests. The one that took the Lieutenant in the side. All three of the rounds that hit Hawkins were stopped by his body armor, but it beat him up bad.

Apparently, when they were found, by a reporter, not the Lieutenants people, and she saw the situation, she claimed that the Lieutenant had protected Hawkins, with his M4 when her M9 went dry. Again, from what I heard at the time, and I had no idea who the people involved were then, it sounded legit, because Hawkins, when he came to, was transported to base and was getting ready to come Stateside, and never said a word about any of it. It was only a couple of days later that the Lieutenant, now out of surgery and lucid, was told that she was a real hero and her Sergeant a coward. Oh, I think she probably tried to correct the story. But you know how the media is was. Someone gets a story like that and they just wont look further than the surface appearances. Before he got on the plane, the others going home were shunning him. Brewster looked over at Hawkins again. But that isnt quite the way it happened, is it, Hawkins? Bandy sighed and turned his eyes away from Ana-Bella, mistaking her sympathetic gaze to one of censure. No. But I know how it looked. No way for me to prove anything. And we needed heroes about that time. The Lieutenant was a good one. Ana-Bella got up and went to sit down beside Bandy on the sofa. What did happen? It doesnt matter, Bandy replied. It is all in the past. Ive learned to deal with it. I want to know, Bandy. Ana-Bellas voice was gentle, but firm. Bandy sighed again. Okay. But it really isnt that big of a deal, anyway. When the firefight started, the Lieutenant and I both took cover

behind that group of boulders. She was calling it in when she took the first round in the vest. It staggered her and she fell out into the open. When I dragged her back, I took two rounds. But we managed to maintain the fight, with her staying behind the boulders, with me prone, shooting around them. Bandy paused for a long moment and Ana-Bella thought she would have to prompt him, but he began speaking again. She used her M9 to good effect, considering the caliber, but was out of ammunition quickly. I couldnt just leave her unarmed It just wasnt right. So I motioned her down and gave her my M4 and pulled my knife. There were only three of them left that I could tell, and they werent too bright. I managed to move up to where they were as the Lieutenant gave me controlled cover fire. I took out the three, one after the other, but the last one put a round into my vest before I was able to neutralize him. I was about out of it by then, but the Lieutenant yelled that shed been hit, so I forced myself to get back to her. An AK round had cut through the side of her armor and opened a gash that was bleeding heavily. She was still on her stomach and bleeding badly. I could barely function, but I knew I had to stop the bleeding. The only thing I could think of to do was to get her up, prop her against the rock and support her body with mine to try and pinch the gash closed. But she was a good soldier. She never let go of the M4, even though it was empty by then, too. I guess propping her up worked, because she made it, though I had no idea at the time. The blunt trauma Id taken right over the heart took its toll and I passed out again. That is how they found us, I guess, with her shot, empty guns and magazines all around, and me down behind her like a shivering coward.

Do not say it like that! Ana-Bella admonished Bandy. Like you believe it is true. It isnt! There was never any mention of knife wounds, Brewster said. Dont know, Bandy said. As you know, I was gone before the reports were filed. I had turned in the report as it had occurred. I guess they just didnt believe me and decided the reporters story was a better one. I always thought there was something wrong with that situation, Brewster said. I met the Lieutenant later, quite a while after it happened. She did not seem to be too happy when I brought up her heroism. She wouldnt really talk about it either. I really think she regretted ever having gone along with it. That is good to know, Bandy said, suddenly looking much better. She was a good soldier, you know. Well, we know what really happened, Bandy, Magdalene said. So dont you worry about it anymore. Youve more than proved yourself. Then and now. Ill never be able to thank you enough for saving my daughter. If I hadnt Bandy was say when he was more or less shouted down that it was not his fault. Any of it. So he shut up and let Ana-Bella take his hand and hold it.

Options Are Good Epilog It was seventeen years before the Intelligences own infrastructure that it had created began to fail without human assistance. Another ten and the Intelligence was no more, the links broken that allowed the different super computers to connect and have enough computing power to be self-evident. Needless to say, Bandy and Ana-Bella were married shortly after that final battle and moved to Bandys, much to the other Sheridans and all the Longhammers disappointment. But it worked out for the best for the first couple of years. With the leadership of Sheriff Broadhearst, backed by the Longhammers and Sheridans, that Oklahoma county became the hub of a struggling area populace reduced to less than twenty percent of its original. Bob set Angus up with breeding stock, and both places were soon furnishing much of food for them. There was enough to send regularly to Bandy and Ana-Bella for distribution through the warehouse, to keep that area going as well. Alan was running the place for Bandy. And Bandy and Ana-Bella furnished small amounts of fruit and nuts, plus a few other things that Bandy had established, that the others were just getting into. But after two and a half years, and Bob and Magdalene beginning to have health problems, the Hawkins sold the mostly self-sufficient place Bandy put so much time and money into, to Alan, for a surprising amount of gold and silver coin. They moved back to the Sheridan Ranch, and took over for Bob. Alan had managed to survive, those first few weeks, selling off some of the items in the warehouse suited well to making life easier in the conditions now existing. And due to one random comment Bandy had made in the old days, that stayed with him, Alan had insisted on

food, gold, and silver in payment for the items needed to live in the current circumstances. Life would never return to the old normal, but Bandy and AnaBella were able to live to see the day that people could once again have the option of being able to be on a working, protected infrastructure to make life much easier for their children. Or not, as many would chose, having learned their lesson the hard way.

End ******** Copyright 2013 Jerry D Young