After the Republic by Frank L. Williams Page A

time Kane Martin will distribute the maps and radios. Martin!”
    Kane walked silently from group to group, handing each driver a map and radio. As Kane worked Bob bellowed, “Any further questions?”
    Jim again raised his hand. “You mentioned defending ourselves. If something happens, to what lengths should we go?”
    Bob puffed on his cigar. “Again, sir, you must be prepared to use deadly force if necessary.”
    Jim didn’t appear satisfied. “How will we know if it’s necessary?”
    Bob answered in his drill instructor-like manner. “You will know. But do not hesitate. Hesitation could cost you your life and the lives of those you love.”
    Jim did not press the issue.
    “If there are no further questions we will now assign your vehicles to groups,” Bob continued. He systematically divided the vehicles into groups of two. “You are to watch over the other vehicle in your group at all times during the trip. You must have each other’s back. Each group will leave precisely four minutes after the group ahead of them. Travel exactly five miles above the speed limit to avoid attracting attention. Martin or I will communicate your departure times over the radios. Timing is critical. Discipline will keep you alive. Do you have questions?” Bob looked at his watch. “Seeing none, take your place in your vehicles. Departures will commence in precisely ten minutes.”
    As Bob jumped down from the truck Jim climbed onto the tailgate. “Folks, I’d like to pray for us before we leave. Please remove your hats and bow your heads.”
    After the prayer Jim pulled Joshua aside as they walked toward their vehicles. He nodded in the direction of Bob and Kane. “Those two guys scare me. They’re way too intense. I think they’ll to get us in trouble.”
    “Bob is all business, but he knows when to stop,” Joshua assured him. “We’ll be okay.”
    Jim’s brow furrowed. “I hope you’re right.”
    Joshua caught up with Thomas before he reached his vehicle. “Thomas, did I hear you say that Drew had made an arrangement with you for the second cabin?”
    “Yeah man, you sure did. We made a deal last night.”
    Joshua cocked his head to the right, perplexed. “Is he compensating you? I’m not going to let anyone take your land without giving you something in return.”
    “Don’t sweat it, man. He did me right. In fact, he owns that cabin and piece of land free and clear.”
    “ Really? What did he give you for it?”
    “Yeah man, really. But I’ll leave it up to him tell you the details.”
    Joshua shook his head in bewilderment as he walked away. How in the world?
    The parade of vehicles assembled in the order dictated by Bob. As Joshua settled into the drivers’ seat Reagan made his way to the floorboard between the bucket seats. “Don’t worry, boy.” He scratched the whimpering puppy on the head. “We’ll be settled into our new place in no time.”
    Bob approached the drivers’ side window as Rebecca got comfortable in the passenger seat. “Joshua, it’s go time. Are you ready?”
    Joshua’s eyes narrowed as he fired up the engine. “Let’s do this.”
    Bob nodded and called out marching orders over his handheld radio. “First group departing in one minute.”
    As the Explorer began creeping forward Joshua reached over and grabbed Rebecca’s hand, attempting to force a smile as he looked into her tear-filled eyes. As he did the wind picked up and out of the corner of his eye he noticed the American flag snapping in the breeze. He slammed on the brakes and jumped out. “One more thing! I want to take the flag with us.”
    Bob grabbed his radio. “Martin! Front and center.” Kane and Bob lowered the flag and folded it with military precision.
    Another vehicle turned into the driveway as Bob was storing the flag in his SUV. He started toward the new arrival, hand on his holstered sidearm. “Martin, strange vehicle approaching. Get into position.”
    Joshua bounded out of the Explorer and