The Prepper Broadcasting Network - 2-9 The Cost of Freedom (Remastered)

Episode Date: July 3, 2025

In a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by disaster, the Moore family fights to survive within the barbed wire confines of the Las Vegas refugee camp. Join the Moores in this gripping installment of The Changing Earth Audio Drama, where every decision tests loyalty, courage, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Will they seize their moment, or will the cost of freedom prove too high? Based on The Changing Earth Series Novels, available at Amazon.com. Get your signed copies at ChangingEarthSeries.com. Get your  Changing Earth Gear at ChangingEarthSeries.com Become a subscriber and help the Changing Earth world go around! Don’t forget to leave a review or like and Subscribe 

Life was so simple when I was young. I fell in love, graduated from college, and started a family. We shopped in supermarkets, sipped coffee, and watched TV. We should have known it was coming. The Bible foretold it. Nostradamus predicted it. And the Hopi elders told stories about it. The Great Quake.

The earthquake that changed everything. People who lost it all became climate refugees, and those that didn't became elitist landowners. They call me the lone survivor of Sacramento. The savior of the refugees. But I'm just a woman, a wife, a mother. This is life on the changing earth. Stephen ran across the street. The rain poured down and his hair stuck to his face. I'll get it. Hi Alex. Hi Daniel. What are you doing? Practicing reading with Mom.

Do you want to go out and play while I talk to your mom and dad? Can I Mom? Yeah go for it. But we're headed over for dinner soon. I'll just walk over there with Carmen. So what's up Alex? Please have a seat. I'll just walk over there with Carmen. So what's up Alex? Please have a seat. I'll grab some water. I'd offer you a soda but we're fresh out right now. You have lots of warm water though. Thank you. So what's on your mind Alex? There were more floods in Colorado. They're taking a crew out in three weeks to help with the cleanup and rescue any survivors.

More rats for the cage! I'm going to request that your family be on that crew. Why? They would never let us out of here. You guys deserve a chance. Maybe if you make it to Canada, you can be free. You guys deserve a shot. Alex, she's right. You know they'll never let us out. Matthew would be too worried about us leaving.

And with good reason. If we get out of these gates, we are never coming back. I know that. You're risking too much. And what about my mom? They'll never let her go too. What about Greg and Penny? They would never, ever, put us all on one crew.

I think Erica is right. It's a big risk, and we'd be leaving our only family behind. Who knows what Matthew would do with them. We definitely need to think about this. Well, don't take too long. I got to get back. I'll see you guys later. We can't do it, Vince. We should at least think about it. It feels like we're dying in this hole. But we can't leave everyone behind. Could you live with

that? You know I couldn't. I just... I hate it here. We were so hopeful that it was going to work out this morning. Then we met that frickin' pervert. I just really don't need this right now. Another moment of hope getting stomped into oblivion. It's okay, baby. God has always taken care of us in the past. I don't know why he wouldn't now. Living in this hole for nine years is not exactly

what I'd call taking care of us. We're alive, aren't we? The kids are alive and healthy. In this world, that ain't half bad. Come on, let's go get some chow. Hi, for our team on the soccer game. Way to go, Daniel. Where's Greg and Penny? They're over there.

Let's get our plate first. Let me guess, for tonight's menu, a nice steak, cooked perfectly pink. Nope, kidney beans and vegetables. Kidney beans again? Oh, kidney beans and vegetables. Kidney beans again? Oh man. Eat them. You need the protein. I will. It's just...yuck. So what's up buddy? Doesn't look like you're getting ready to move. Nope.

What happened? Oh no. Don't look at me this time. I did it. That guy was a fat sloppy pervert. What happened? Oh no, don't look at me this time. I did it. That guy was a fat, sloppy pervert. There was no way I was going to take my family anywhere near him. What's up with the people out there? Have they all gone nuts? No, that's just the only people Matthew will let us meet. He ended up for us. Oh, get this Greg, Vince talks all tough. But he's laughing with Matthew and having a grand old time.

Hey, I was just protecting my own skin. Tomorrow, I'll be at my garden and you'll be down on the waterline. So who played it smarter? Whatever. Where's Dexter and Star tonight? I'm not exactly sure. Probably hanging out with the Dunkins. I'm sure we'll hear all about it tomorrow. One giant uppercut and our winner is Khalid Shaleed! Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee eee refugee curfew and you know this place is off limits to refugees. Is it? Get over here! Sir, what do you have there, sir? A refugee caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.

You want me to take him home, sir? No. This piece of refugee trash could spend the rest of the night in the box. Maybe then he won't end up like his mother. Yes, sir. Come on, you. Yes, sir. Foster?

Yes, sir. Drop him off with his mother at the water line tomorrow. Will do, sir. From the government's crying eyes, take yourself a summer holiday. Get some time away from... Commander Gray, what brings you by so early? Come in. I have a favor to ask of you. Fire away. You want something to drink? No thank you. I only have a few minutes.

What's the rush? The Colonel is hosting a cross-region board meeting. He likes to have me there. Sounds like a boring day to me. You got that right, and it's not just a boring day. The delegates are in town all week. So what do you want from me? I want you to go to the home of Grayson Webb while he's in the Capitol. Why? His family will be home with minimal mercenary forces guarding them.

You shake them up and I'm sure Grayson will start seeing things differently. I'll go myself to make sure it's handled properly. Tread lightly, TJ. We want the message sent but the general needs Grayson. His work carries a lot of weight with the northern delegates. Don't you worry about that Carl, I'll get the message delivered. Oh, and FYI, I started looking into that woman that started the riot in Vegas since you brought it up. So did I. Really? What did you find? Not much. It seems our family's paperwork is missing. I found that curious as well, but I dug deeper.

And? And there's four families with the last name Moore with inquiries into the federal database looking for their families. Okay, now you're getting somewhere. Did you find a match? No. There's one candidate that stands out. They're looking for a family that came out of the same area of California. A married couple and a boy. What about the daughter? She's older than her brother. She would have been alive before the quake. That's why it's not a match. I think you should just let it go.

Maybe, but Erica comes from the same region where the lone survivor legend comes from. They got you believing that story. It's just an urban legend. The way the refugees tell their story, that woman lived. Is it her? I don't think so, TJ. Go ahead and laugh it off, but if it is her, it should be one hell of a bounty. Leave it be, TJ.

The bad ones are dead. She'll be one hell of a bounty. Leave it be TJ, the Badlands are dead. She'll rot there. Anyway, Grayson's the immediate threat and his wife, Kiara, is the target. We need Grayson to control the northern vote. Consider it done. We're going to need another load of refugees too. Yuri's on pick up this week. I'll have them to you Tuesday. That will work. It's time for me to head out. Make sure this situation with Grayson is handled.

Have I ever let you down? That's why I came to you. Let me know when it's done. Will do. Have fun with the diplomats. Oh yeah. How do I wind up every single day going through this life all alone? TJ sir, I don't think Mr. Lee was expecting to see you today. No he wasn't. Where is he? He's in his office with Rodnick.

Where else would he be? That's not for me to say sir. Smart kid. Come in. TJ, my boy. What brings you by today? Your request from Commander Gray. Who need to be picked up today? Not a pickup. He wants me to deliver a message.

Your note, Aaron boy? To Grace and Webb's wife. Okay, now that's a little different, isn't it? I need a team here. He has a pickup this week and I need that to go flawlessly as well Yuri is too aggressive for the web mission. Anyway, Ryan's team is back in town. Take them. I'm taking Nate, too No, he's staying. He's coming. I need to train a protege eventually. He's not the one Why don't you let me decide eventually. He's not the one. Why don't you let me decide that? Because that's not your job, TJ.

I have a handful of candidates. Wayne, Rick, James. What about them? They're promising but young. Nate's ready. We'll talk about it when you get home. Yes, Mr. Lee. I'm leaving in the morning. Have the team ready. They'll be briefed. Everything okay TJ? Fine. Be ready to leave if I call on you.

Yes sir. I feel just the same Ohhhh Help me, I can't shake this feeling away Help me How'd Chappie do? Cassidy has more fighters. The delivery was a success. He's already back in Reno. No doubt wasting his days at the Lorises. No doubt, but he better have his supply room rotated and be ready to help unload. He's not a man to slough his responsibilities.

For the love of a loose woman, I think Chappie would give up just about anything. He'll find what he loves one day. Like Ginger? Or like Cassidy? Not like Cassidy. She's too focused on the task at hand. Look who's talking. When we get back, I want these supplies loaded on the double. I'm looking forward to some time off and I don't want to be bothered with it.

Nice subject change. I could say the same. About what? You certainly didn't elaborate on Ginger much. It's a tough time for relationships, Verges. Ain't that the truth? Sir, we have Bay 12 ready for you, Trucker. 10-4, we're pulling in now.

Shit. Shit. You got this handleman room? You know I do, sir. I'm going back to my office to make sure there are no fires burning. Sir, good to see you. You know I do sir. I'm going back to my office to make sure there are no fires burning. Sir, good to see you. What's the news Private? Our convoy of trucks just came back from Empire. They need tires and oil.

Plus the team that was hunting the rebels up north were successful. They're transporting them to the camp in Montana. Can the Montana camp take them? Oh yeah, they have room. They're transporting a load of refugees to the east for factory labor. What's the weather report? Looks like a storm might hit in a day or so. But your buddies from Vegas should have an easy go at getting up here. Good. Uh, there's one more thing, sir.

What's that? General McClintock assigned his son to your detail. He wants him by your side. Johnny? I haven't seen him for years. He must be damn near 20 years old now. Where is he? Ummm... well, that's a thing, sir. What? Sergeant Chappie took him over to Loris' place after the supply room was all organized. He did what? Mmm... Sergeant said work was done, and it was time for some R&R.

I bet he did. I made your purchase. I didn't know you were back in town. I just got in. Looking for a good time? No, I'm looking for Chappy and a young man he brought in with him. Chappie's right over there. I'm not sure where his friend went. Thank you, Jennifer.

Burgess, how nice to see you. Ladies, would you please excuse us? Don't go far, ladies. That supply room better be in tip-top shape. You know I always put business before pleasure, sir. What's the problem? Johnny is here. Where is he? Oh yeah. Boy's all grown up. Quite the looker too. The ladies love him. McClintock puts him in my care and you bring him here? Did you even show him a bunk first? I wasn't sure where you wanted him and I wasn't gonna leave him. Really? Where is he?

Good question. I think he went off with Candy. Damn it, Chappy! I'll find him, sir. You just stay here. I'll find him. Major Virgis. Get your clothes on and get out here! Yes sir! Hi Virgis! Get the hell off of me, you smell like booze and women!

Oh sorry Virgis, it's so good to see you! It's good to see you too, Johnny. You've grown up. Pops couldn't keep me green anymore, so he sent me out here to you. Damn it, Johnny. Show the man respect. He's a leader of our mercenary forces, but more than that, he's your father. Still harping on the same old lines you told me when I was ten? You were gonna cut that shit right now. That's no way to address the superior. Come on, I can't talk to you with this damn music blasting.

I like it. Move, now! Chappy, get your ass up and come with us. I don't know what to do when I see you around. What happened to those times we used to share? Is it just me or did you never care? Sit down, you two. Chappy, I expected more from you. The work was done. We was just waiting on you. Monrona's team are down there stacking supplies now.

Where you should be. What's the point if we don't get time to relax? You had two days of R&R coming up. Had? You can kiss them goodbye now. That's bullshit and you know it. No, this is bullshit. You slept your work detail and took General's son to the brothel. Monroe's got it handled down there and the kid needed a break. It was a long trip. Go get some sleep. I can't talk to you right now. In the morning, you're on gate duty. Yes sir. Johnny, you are my responsibility and this behavior is unacceptable no matter how much

you've been drinking. Yes sir, I know sir. You should have waited for me to get here and receive your assignments before any partying began. I know, Verges. You will address me as Major. Major Verges or Sir. Do you understand? Yes, sir.

I'm not your babysitter. I'm your commanding officer. And you will do well to remember that. Yes, sir. I know, sir, but- There is no but, Private Jessup. Get in here. Sir? Take Private McClintock and clear the supply room next to my room. Put a bunk in there and make certain he stays there and sleeps this off. Yes sir. Private McClintock we will discuss your assignment in the morning. Yes sir. Prepper Broadcasting Network is nine dynamic hosts, seven podcasts a week, live shows,

chat rooms, daily updates, all on prepping, survival and patriotism. Visit prepperbroadcasting.com for your dose of self-reliance and independence. Erica, Erica, come on. It's time to get up. But the sun isn't even up yet. Yeah, but the day has begun. Okay, I'm moving. Looks like Dexter and Star stayed out all night again. They probably stayed over at the Duncan's. That's one good thing about gates and fences. We don't have to worry about them going missing.

Good morning, Mom. Go back to sleep, baby. It's too early. Okay. Man, I wish It's too early. Okay. Man, I wish I could crawl in with him. Me too, but we have to go. Do you have your gloves? Yeah, thank God my mom made these for me. My hands would be toast with all the hours I spend on that line. Are you headed out to the Sam Boyd line or Pittman?

Pittman, which means I'll probably get a big cup of cold coffee. I'll see you later. I love you, baby. I love you too. MUSIC Miss Erica Moore, how nice to see you again. Coffee or tea this morning? Coffee. Aw, yuck. Only Las Vegas finest for the water line.

You better drink it all, you're gonna need it. You're stationed at the scoop really How did you end up here? Doesn't matter. Just making small talk. No reason to take offense, man. I didn't bow down to a landowner. You? I'm stuck here until my family gets adopted.

I didn't come willingly. Who would? I guess some do. I'm stuck here until my family gets adopted. I didn't come willingly. Who would? I guess some do. Break time! What's going on here? I don't know. Put this one on the scoop. Come on, get up.

Oh my gosh. Backstab. Back up, man. No, this is my son. Your son was found at the fights last night. You know refugees are forbidden from attending. My son knows he's not allowed to go there. Now your son has been breaking your rules as well as ours. And you know the punishment. So take your son and get back to work all of you! How

could they do this to a 14 year old? Foster and his buddies said they were going to show me what not being obedient to the rules would get me before I had time to grow up and become another disorderly refugee. You know you're not supposed to go there Dex. What were you thinking? Remember on the bus the other day, Daniel and I were talking about the paint on the houses and dad said let him dream? Yeah.

Got me thinking back before the quake. Dad and I had always watched the MMA fighters on TV and I loved those Power Ranger guys. Well, I just wanted to see if the fights they have were like that, like watching TV with my dad. Those were some good days. You two had some exciting wrestling matches on that couch. And besides, Star's boyfriend was fighting and Star was there. Star was there? She took you? No, she didn't know I snuck in, but I had to see what all the

fuss was about. Don't do it again. Let's get you cleaned up. I'll make you mine She's out at lunch. Can I help you with something? No, I'll get her. I could go get her for you, sir. Do I look like a man who likes to wait? No, sir. Sorry, sir. Don't be so sorry. You do a fine job. Thank you, sir. There's no laughter these days Far too seldom do I get the chance to Even put a smile on my face

I'm not one for straying More and more I find myself growing passively entertained. TJ, what are you doing here? I need some lunch. Thought I would have it with you. Oh, I, uh, come in. It smells wonderful in here. Frisa, I was wondering where you hustled off to this morning. I left you breakfast, but I had lunch plans with Susan.

I ate and I'm fine. I would have been training, but Commander Gray had other plans for my time. Sit down, TJ. What's going on? I'm headed north. I'm not sure how long the job will take, but I know you've been hacking the Federal database for missing people. There is this woman. If I cared, you would have heard about her a while ago. I told Grey I authorized it to find a bounty. Thanks TJ. I told you loyalty is rewarded but don't ever test that. I never would. I know I I stopped by when I did. Is that fresh bell pepper? It is. You should see the plants in our garden. They're getting huge. I thought you were planting a flower garden. We did, but we had some extra room and put

some veggies in as well. The flowers help bring the pollinators and keep the bad bugs away. Why don't we have any at the main gardens? No one thinks they are necessary. Susan, you tell them I authorized it. Yes, TJ, but we got off track again. You're right. Where was I? Hacking the federal database. Right. After lunch, let's go back to your office.

I'm looking for a man searching for his son. That's pretty broad. Gray didn't give me names, and I want to know what they are. He said the match was off because of the amount of family members. If the names match, then it's a match no matter who got picked up along the way. If it's a bounty for Gray, why do you need to hack the system? Wouldn't he just tell you? It's a personal curiosity, and it seems as if the feds are covering something up. I want to know if they are. Leverage is always good.

Are you going to be home for dinner? Yes, early. I have to leave early in the morning. I'll have it ready for you. If you're done TJ, we can head over to my office. Let's go. Don't worry about the dishes Teresa I'll take care of them after work. Okay bye. As often as she's there you think she works for you. We're friends TJ if she's not taking care of her responsibilities. She does everything perfectly, always has.

I'm just saying. She was there when? Always has. I'm just saying. She was there when... When what? I needed a friend. You didn't need a friend. You needed a new way of thinking. And I learned one. And I love my life. Patrice is a big part of that. She needed me too. You're not exactly Chatty Caffey. Small talk is useless unless there's something that needs to be said. My point exactly. You found her? I did, along with lunch. Sounds like a way, way no. You're not to be disturbed. Yes, teacher.

Give me a minute to get into the system. Okay, what's the name? Moore is the last name. They'd be looking for a man named Vince and a woman named Erica. And their son, Dexter? That's the one. Who's the man looking for them? His name is Dr. Earl Moore.

Looks like he's a landowner in Minnesota. He has a veterinary clinic in the town of Brainerd. Show me. It's right here. I knew they had a match. Why didn't Gray tell me the truth? This boy they're looking for, Dexter, he's over 13 now. He would have gone through the infertilization process. You know the public opinion of that practice is not favorable. How do you think it would look if a story about a landowner kid who was accidentally

altered surfaced? It wouldn't do good things for General Henderson's reputation, that's for sure. Thanks for this. Hi this is Sarah F. Hathaway, the creator of the Changing Earth series and the voice of Erica Moore. Visit changing earth series.com to explore the novels behind the drama and the survival knowledge behind the stories. Join the changing earth membership program and get one week early access to the show.

We appreciate you helping the Changing Earth World go round. Visit us at www.changingearthseries.com. That's www.changingearthseries.com. Sir, Staff Sergeant Bingham and Sergeant Benative arrive, sir. Excellent. Show them in. Major Vergers, nice to see you. Please, you guys are here to relax. Call me Cole. I second that, and God Almighty, I could use the break from that place.

No reason to wait for Ben to start the festivities. Sit down and have a drink. So Patrick, you went to basic with Ben. Where were you stationed? Trained in San Diego. Bunch of crazies out there. I hear ya. That's why I chose to hang my hat in Arizona. Where did you train, Cole? I think my dad started training me in the womb. I was on a sniper team in high school. Went into law enforcement where General McClintock found me. I've been doing work overseas until now. My brother always wanted me to go private with him. He was gonna finish two more years

and then get out. He was in the Sacramento area when the quake hit, right? Yeah, he was. Did you ever find out what happened to him? He died in a tsunami. He was assisting a community. How did you find that out? Well, that was the word I got from a survivor who was with him for a while. You never told me about that.

Well, you never ask, hon. Come on, sweetie pie. I don't care how big you are. I'll kick your ass right now if you keep talking that smack. You scared it for good time, little man. Come on, just one kiss. Oh, man, you're sick. Hey, look who I found in the parking lot.

How's it going, fellas? I see you started without me. Ben, how's it going, my friend? Sit down, have a drink. Why don't we head over to Dolores's? I'm waiting on Chappy. He's still not off guard duty? What the hell is Chappy doing on guard duty?

He earned it. Y'all waiting on me? There he is, Mr. Guard duty. Now you have to tell us how you pissed off the major. Come on guys, we can talk as we walk. We ain't got a drink last night. Come on, what happened? Our mayor may not have taken the general's son with me. Oh man. That's just dumb What is that kid 15 16? No? He's one sounds old enough to me verges speak of the devil here. He is now Major verges sir you don't washing the trucks yet almost sir then the latrines Yes, sir good after that get some shut-eye. I assigned you the morning patrol. Yes, sir.

You're my kind of commander, Cole. Are you kidding me? When Ben made Drill, we puked for weeks. Want to get strong? Ben is your man. You're the one working on the re-education program. I'd say that takes some training ability. It's different. It's more like winning an argument. Mentally exhausting. That's why I put in for a transfer to recruit training. You did? Yeah, I have to take a break from that stuff.

Good for you, Patrick. Hey, if you fellas are done patting each other on the back, we can go in and get a drink. and get a drink. This, how nice to see you. Are these the friends you were telling me about? Dolores Chapman, I would like you to meet Gunnery Sergeant Ben Nicholton, Sergeant Patrick Bennett and Staff Sergeant Alex Bingham. You know the other two. Let's make yourself at home.

Well, I do believe I will take you up on that offer. Lead the way ma'am. Check out Mr. Schoenberg. This table for you gentlemen for this weekend. Relax, enjoy yourself. Thank you Dolores. Look at these beautiful ladies. Now I know why you put your headquarters up here. It's definitely a perv. If you guys don't mind, I see a pretty lady that looks like she could use a partner on the dance floor. Ben, how's the Capitol holding up? That place is beautiful.

You've been there? Are you guys talking about the new Capitol City in Kansas? Yeah, they finally finished it, though. The center is a giant globe. The part dug into the ground is where the stands are for seating and the top is all glass. Amazing they built something like that while people out here starved. Don't interrupt me Chappie. I won't hear this. Around the glass bowl is a train system

and around that are seven more giant half domes dug into the ground. They'll swivel on gigantic ball bearings so they can move with the quakes and the tops closed in the heavy rain or tornadoes. That is something. Amazing. I wonder why we never built stuff like that before. Necessity, time and money. You got that right. How's the work on the wall been going? Slow and wet.

Good. We have to keep it that way. Alex, did you hear anything else about your brother? Who told you they were with him? He wants to know if it was the lone survivor. I want to know too. I think we all do. It's just a story. What if I told you she just might be the lone survivor? You're not serious right now.

might be the lone survivor. You're not serious right now. There is rumors but she don't talk about it much. That girl has spirit. Hell, Bennett couldn't even get her to crack. She went through the reeducation process? Yeah, her whole family. They help organize the riot. Cole is the best interrogator I've ever known. If anyone can get her to talk, he can. I may be able to get you an opportunity, Cole. There's a new round of refugees being chosen for a rescue squad. I requested her group make up one of those teams. You think Tweed will go for it? I hope so. Her team is talented in some viable ways.

It's up to him ultimately, and her now. What are you fellas doing over here? Swilling shots? When there are beautiful women to dance with. Come on, boys. I'm game, Patrick. Mmm. You set it up, Alex, and I'll be there. It's hard to rest in a little cup.

You wait upon your chance. It's hard to stay in a little cup. Look time! Wonder what's on the menu. Food. The edible kind. That's right. Looks like it will be filled with sand now.

Is that Private Foster again? I don't know. You, Eric Amore, come with me. Please, would be nice. Wouldn't it? Let's go. Don't you lay one more finger on me son. I will come on my own. Come on then. Mom, don't worry Dex. I'll be home tonight. You get some food and do your best down there, okay?

Okay mom. Are you done with your sappy goodbye with that little punky old lady? Yes, I am. You can wait outside, Primal Foster. But sir, she... I said outside! Yes, sir. And close the door on your way out. Erika, sit down!

You have a friend in that soldier. Who? Private Foster? No, not Private Jacob Foster. Although he is a promising soldier, I don't think he thinks too fondly of you. I'm referring to Staff Sergeant Alex Bingham. Can you believe he suggested that you should be on the rescue crew? Actually, he said he thought the whole darn group of yours should be on the rescue crew. He praised you all because you are California survivors and knew his brother. Then he browbeat me into believing all of you would be less trouble around here if you had the satisfaction of living life where you were supposed to and could really make a difference for others. What do you think Erica?

Do you need a little satisfaction? I uh... You know Matthew? It has been nine years since I left this place and any kind of outing would be a good one. You know why you never got on a cruise before Erica? The plain and simple fact is you are at flight risk. You are too knowledgeable about wilderness survival and you and your family would take

any opportunity to leave. But the fact is you are surprised by the request, which pleases me. It could mean that there's no escape plot going on in the background, because let me tell you, if Alex is playing any part in helping refugees escape, it would be the end of his career and cause extreme disciplinary action. I would be terribly disappointed if I was forced to do that, Erica. I like that guy. Look, Matthew, I don't know why Alex would suggest that. We're friends, but I would never want to put him in harm's way.

That's good, too. Alex says he is concerned about you. He says depression has an effect on your work. Let's be honest. We all have a reason for our spirits to be crushed. On one hand, I think finally your will is gone, and you'll go quietly away with some landowner never to be heard from again. God knows it would make my life easier.

On the other hand, I see great potential in you. If we could just channel your energy in the right direction, even though you don't talk about it, I know what they say about you. They say you are the lone survivor of Sacramento. You have been quietly working at menial positions there in the camp, but I know what happens behind closed doors. You have been training, staying ready, and keeping that group of yours afight. You are all I thorn in my side, but y'all stay under the radar and I can't do a thing about it. But maybe, just maybe, I have been going about this all wrong. Maybe it is possible to harness your strengths into my advantage. You have a big, well-trained family group and that works for me as well.

You're awfully quiet. You're usually so full of opinions on whatever I have to say. I'm just honored that you would even consider me and my family for the job. I don't know what to say. Oh, well so polite as well. Maybe Alice was right about this. Or maybe not. I'm going to take my chances on you. If you fail on us, I promise you, there will be hell to pay.

We're going to see how well you have trained those kids of yours. I'm sending your whole crew. You, Vince, Dexter, Star. I'm even sending your mom. Greg and Penny, Sherman, Mitchell, Jen and Roxy. As well as the Duncans. I must be nuts, but I'm sending the whole lot of you into the program. I have been looking into the occupational activities of your group.

And it is perfect fit for rescue savage team. You have three weeks of training to make sure your group is able to handle the physical requirements of the position and to train in your respective assignments. We'll see how well the California survivors can handle a look at the new world but Erica don't let me down. Don't you worry Matthew I won't. You now officially work for me. You're not just another refugee here. So I will not tolerate you using my first name. You will address me as Sir and with respect.

Yes sir. Excuse me sir. What, haven't I done enough? What about Daniel, Crystal and Carmen? You didn't mention them. Girl, do you think I'm an idiot? Daniel, Crystal, and Carmen are staying with me. And so are Alex.

One thing I do know is, you're so deeply loyal to your family, you would never leave one of them here while you escape. Think of it as like an insurance policy. Plus, they're old enough to be of any use out there anyway. Yes sir, you're right. I'm so loyal that I would never go anywhere without them. I was separated from my family before, and it will never happen again.

What if the quakes start again when we're out there, and we can't make it back? The kids have to come with us. Well, they're not going to. when we're out there. And we can't make it back. The kids have to come with us. Well, they're not going to. The Quakes have been mild since the Great Quake nine years ago. You can make a decision. Go to Colorado, accept being part of the rescue crew, and leave Daniel behind.

Or don't. Stay here and rot for all I care. In fact, all the families have to make that decision. So let them know when you brief them on the mission. Whoever decides to go will meet at 1700 at Warehouse D by the gate. Now go. I'll inform Sergeant Terrence Walker to take you to where the individuals from your team are working. Yes, sir. Don't let me down, girl.

This is a one-time opportunity. Do well, and we can talk about a much different future for you. You screw up, and you're done. You'll waste away on the water line. Yes, sir. with the pain no i don't mind the rain that's the way it goes life will teach you what you need to know hello this is l douglas hogan voice of TJ Swinson. You can follow me at Amazon or go to Facebook.com slash honor your oath. I look forward to seeing you there.

Human trafficking is not fiction. It's a reality in every country. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children explains that every 30 seconds a child is trafficked in the United States. If you see something say something dial 888-373-7888 or visit human trafficking hotline.org for more contact information. You may be helping to save a life. You may be helping to Grayson's. We're taking a detour. I want to scope things out for myself. Potential future bounties? Something like that. Hey, radio to the men to meet us at Fargo. Yes, sir.

Where would we be? The air names the place. Where would we be? The air names the place. Okay, Ryan, make a right up here. And we're going down this highway for a while. and we're going down this highway for a while. Isn't the mercenary base out this way? It is.

We're not going to be that far from it. Left up here, slow down. Looks nice. They rebuilt the barn, and it looks like they're producing well. They have one of those new trolley systems that transports their supplies. New? Well, not new, but never used like this before.

Of all the signs, de Brainerd. Who's running things up here since McClintock went to the Capitol? A woman by the name of Payne. Nice. I found it interesting. She has a head on her shoulders as well. We're about to tread lightly at Grayson's. There you go.

The town of Brainerd. Looks like a new hub. Slow down. What are we looking for? The veterinary clinic. There it is. All I see is a couple of old people in front. Gross, they're kissing. They're consoling one another and he's wearing a doctor jacket. That's all I needed to see. Let's go to Fargo. Okay. The other transport should be up here on the right. There they are. Tell them to follow us.

Let's get this done. Up here on the left. We're going to leave the vehicles and go on foot. Yes sir. Everyone remember, we're not killing inside the communications only. We're aiming straight for Chiara Webb and only I will approach her. You are to set a perimeter and maintain that perimeter. Yes sir. Get your gear and let's move.

Ryan, take out the team and set up the perimeter watch. Nate, take the guard at the door. Yes sir. Let's move. Grayson, you have to protect those people. Let's move. Grayson, you have to protect those people. Henderson just wants control. Hold here. I know it's a good offer, but what about the people of this country?

Uh-huh. I know Grayson, and I know you're a good man. You'll make the right decision. You don't have to give him an answer until Sunday. Okay then, we can talk about it tomorrow. I'll tell them I love you Grayson. I'll talk to you tomorrow. Well, isn't that sweet? I love you, Grayson. I'll talk to you tomorrow. Well, isn't that sweet? Don't touch the phone. Just put it down.

Hello, Miss Webb. Who are you? That doesn't really matter, does it? The only question is, how much pain do you want to feel? What? I'm here with a secret for just me and you. If you agree, this will be easy. But if you don't, this could take a while. If you tell your husband I was here, your children will die.

And worse yet, they'll end up in the system you despise. What is your secret? A direct woman. I like that makes it easy to do business So what is it? You're going to start encouraging your husband to follow General Henderson's lead no matter what he proposes My husband is making decisions for the future of this country and the future of his family See I'm not sure you fully understand the depth of that correlation. I see your point. Good woman, I knew you were going to see eye to eye. Just don't hurt my babies. Like I said before, it's your choice how much pain you want to feel. You

encourage him to side with Henderson and you'll never see me again. You don't and I will forever haunt your waking dreams. Henderson has some good ideas. I'm sure I can work with that. Keep one thing in mind. I don't give second chances. You live up to your end of the bargain. And I'll do the same. Consider it done. Sir, Murk Guard on the move. Seems I must take my leave. You remember your promise.

Let's move. Sir, mission accomplished? Just like clockwork. Marked. All clear, T.J. We're good to go the way we came in. Hold up. There's a merc team. They found the vehicles. We have to take them. They probably already radioed it in. They can't track those plates. But we need those vehicles. Take your squad and cover me if I need you. Yes sir. Good evening gentlemen. Can I help you? Don't you move another step. Is

there a problem? Who owns these vehicles? Those vehicles? Yeah, those vehicles. I don't know is something wrong? Any of you move and I'll kill him. Put down your weapons. Good now. Damn it, Nate! There's more of them! In the bushes! No, no, no!

Nate, get over here! What was that? He had a beat on you from behind. He was gonna kill you. I had it under control. You weren't supposed to kill anyone. Take their bodies, that vehicle, and those black shirts, and don't come back until you've taken them so far no one will ever find them. Yes, TJ. You come straight to me when you're done. Yes, TJ.

Ryan, let's go. Two minutes to show your worth. Two minutes to show the earth. You cut the pressure with a knife. But can you cut the wax with your life? And with that disc the world will hear. Your blood, sweat and every tear. Cut your life on acetate.

Cut your songs on acetate. Cut your songs into the plates. And then Chappie says, maybe the underwear bomber is on the plane. Chappie, you always come up with the best lines. And who is this beautiful woman who just joined us? Ginger Russell. And you are? Patrick Bennett. But you can call me anything you want. She's already spoken for Patrick.

Lucky you. What do you see in this slacker, Ginger? Must be his exceptional sense of humor. Patrick, are you over here giving Sweet Ginger a hard time? No, I was just wondering when she was going to lose the zero and get with a hero. Come on, Patrick, I'm going to show you this loadout. Can't go wrong with guns or girls. Alex, will you come with Ginger and me for a second? I need to talk with him. Sure, Jim. Can you hear me for a second? I need to talk with you. Sure Tim.

What's going on? Ginger is pregnant. That's great news. I couldn't agree more. But we're done with this fight. We just want to go settle down and raise our family. But we're done with this fight. We just want to go settle down and raise our family. I hear that a lot these days. If we leave the Mercs, we'll end up in a camp. What would happen to my family? Well, you guys would be adopted out to the landowners who need labor.

Is there another way out? I wish there was, Tim. But you know what happens. I wish it was Tim, but you know what happens. The Roundup crews seek out anyone not registered as a refugee or landowner. You know exactly how thermal tech works. So there's nothing you can do? I'm sorry buddy, I don't have an answer. Thanks for thinking it through for me. If there was something I could do, trust me, I'd do it. Please don't tell Verges about this. I'm not sure how he'd react. My lips are sealed. You guys coming out for another drink? Give us a minute. Will do. Congratulations you two. What are we gonna do, Tim? I don't know. But we're gonna figure it out.

I'm not raising my kids here like this. I will connect those lungs and find another place to hide I'll try to love this life away She tried to make me see that everything I used to be Would seldom ever get this right My intrusion? But are you doing business in my office? Sorry about that Delores, I didn't think you would mind. I just couldn't help but overhear your dilemma and I may have a solution. But you can never tell Virgis. Can you help us?

It depends on you Tim. I need your word that you won't tell Virgis. I promise you I will never say a thing. I have a medical facility underground. I'm also a hub for a series of tunnels to move the refugees out of the state and eventually the country. I knew it! Not that the tunnels came through here, but I knew the tunnels were out there. Thermals can't just appear and disappear. You didn't report your suspicions, did you? No.

If people are finding a way out of this BS, I say let them go. When you say the word I can get you to Canada, but you better set it up just right. I don't want my relationship with Virgis in jeopardy. He may not know the full truth, but I value his friendship and respect him as a man. Me as well. Leaving them is not gonna be easy, but I have to do what is best for my growing family. We can stay if you want, Tim. I don't want to be the reason for you leaving Chappie and Cole. You're not. This little bundle of joy is. If we can get this baby out of this, I think we have to take the risk. I agree. I just hope we don't spend our whole life running.

You have some details to work out. When you do, let me know what you decide. There's just some free towns out there. I may be able to get you residents in one. Thanks, Dolores. We'll let you know. I'm about this world, well anyhow That is until I saw you standing there But she got so sick of all the things I used to be And so she asked me then if I could see what's going on And I looked above and said, can you help me now? Cause I start to see that this isn't right. She tried to make me see that everything I used to be

Said I never got this right. Thank you for listening to the Changing Earth audio drama based on the Changing Earth novel series by Sarah F Hathaway. Grab your copy on Amazon or get signed editions at changing earth series dot com. This content is copyrighted. For details on performers, sound effects and music credits visit changing earth series dot com where you can subscribe to support the series and keep the adventure alive. Check out the changing earth store for exclusive gear. Love the show. Like, subscribe, and drop a review on apple podcast, spotify, youtube, rumble, or your

favorite platform. Stay prepared and stay tuned for the next episode of the changing earth audio drama.