The Prepper Broadcasting Network - 4-9 The Aftermath (remastered)

Episode Date: February 5, 2026

When the weight of leadership becomes too heavy to carry alone, the truth hits: no one controls everything. In the wake of reprimands, demotions, and dangerous missions into the badlands, one fighter ...learns that real strength lies in trusting family and friends to do their part. In a world of quakes and tyrants, the unbreakable circle rises.Adapted from Sara F. Hathaway's Changing Earth novels—explore the series and shop merch at ChangingEarthSeries.com. #PostApocalyptic #AudioDrama #ChangingEarthBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/prepper-broadcasting-network--3295097/support.BECOME A SUPPORTER FOR AD FREE PODCASTS, EARLY ACCESS & TONS OF MEMBERS ONLY CONTENT!Get Prepared with Our Incredible Sponsors! Survival Bags, kits, gear www.limatangosurvival.comThe Prepper's Medical Handbook Build Your Medical Cache – Welcome PBN FamilyThe All In One Disaster Relief Device! www.hydronamis.comJoin the Prepper Broadcasting Network for expert insights on #Survival, #Prepping, #SelfReliance, #OffGridLiving, #Homesteading, #Homestead building, #SelfSufficiency, #Permaculture, #OffGrid solutions, and #SHTF preparedness. With diverse hosts and shows, get practical tips to thrive independently – subscribe now!

Transcript
Discussion (0)
Starting point is 00:00:02 Pain. Pain is the great equalizer, the secret to life. From the time I was a boy, I learned to always inflict pain faster than my opponent. To never let pain guide my decisions, and always harness the pain for my own strength. The great quake brought misery and death to a callous number of people. But it made me a god, ruler of my domain, the greatest bounty hunter to ever live. No one No one dared run from T.J. Swenson Except one.
Starting point is 00:00:40 They call her the lone survivor. The savior of the refugees. But she is my greatest bounty ever. This is life on the changing earth. It's not time to get up yet, Trucker. Okay, okay, I'm up. You ready, bro? All said.
Starting point is 00:02:05 Aren't they? Yes, ma'am, they sure are. Don't worry, ma'am. He's friendly. Are you sure about that? Honestly, he's not friendly, but he is well trained. You're safe. Now, that I'll believe. The babies won't have much time with mama. Why not?
Starting point is 00:02:30 We'll take them to the nursing house and bottle feed them. That way, they'll be human friendly. The mom's going to be milk for us to make milk and cheese. Would you like to come and see it? Maybe some other time, Miss. Andre Simpson. Miss Simpson. We're headed out to the border for patrol.
Starting point is 00:02:49 Sounds like more fun than milking goats all morning. I guess it's all in perspective. Take care, ma'am. Take care, Mr. Kate, private, first-class cake. And this is Corporal Johnson. You have a nice day, ma'am. Nice meeting you, gentlemen.
Starting point is 00:03:11 I think Kyle is making moves on a star. I think you're right. I want to say I don't like that, dude, but I'd be lying. Plus, he sure did give Sean what he had coming last night. Did you see his eye when he got up on stage? That guy is a joke. I've always thought so. He's lucky your father didn't rip his balls off.
Starting point is 00:03:33 I wonder what he was doing there at all. I thought he left her to play for the landowners and enjoy all the cushy perks. I thought so too, bro. He was probably knacking on one of the... those hot chicks that threw themselves at him. The landowner that married him dropped him like rocks. Probably. Who could blame him, though?
Starting point is 00:03:52 I heard the chick he married fell out of the ugly tree and hit every branch on the way down. Here we are, patrolling the homesteads. Talk about a boring day. He's wanted to have kids. Not me. My dad was always too busy for me anyway. Megan mentioned settling down someplace like this. What's up with you two anyway?
Starting point is 00:04:30 She's easy to talk to. You two getting together? I don't know. I don't want to mess up our friendship. Relationships can make things awkward. That's true. What if it didn't work out, and she's your adopted aunt for the rest of your life. Weird, bro.
Starting point is 00:04:46 She's not blood, Johnny. You know that. Neither is Star. Yeah, but Star's my sister. I can hardly remember life without her. I just met Megan a year ago, and she isn't even officially adopted. And now none of that matters anyhow. True.
Starting point is 00:05:04 She's a cool girl, too. You're right. She is easy to talk to. What do you know about it? Don't get all jealous. I do share a tent with the woman. Don't get in the ruffle, bro. I wouldn't go there.
Starting point is 00:05:18 I know you like her. It's my turn with the scope. You had quite a night last night. You heard that? Oh, yeah. The whole camp heard about it. Great. Where is everyone?
Starting point is 00:05:44 Already off to their post, Daniel's outside waiting for you, and Vince left with Bennett about an hour ago. Oh, no. They said they would be back in a couple hours. Sir. Staff Sergeant Gleason, why aren't you at your post outside? Staff Sergeant Case just awoke. I was checking on her, sir. I need a guard on this door, not a nurse.
Starting point is 00:06:10 Do you understand me? Yes, sir. Erica, you stirred up a hornet's nest last night. I know, sir, but that woman had it coming. Sit down and shut up. Yes, sir. It's hard enough to keep you hidden without you finding trouble. General Merkley is not happy about this.
Starting point is 00:06:26 But, sir, that lady! Erica, the lady is the wife of the mayor who keeps all of us hidden in this town. Your actions could have jeopardized everything. I didn't know. I know, and Merckley knows. But people started talking. Your anonymity has been put at risk.
Starting point is 00:06:45 Merkley wants to speak to you. Now get your uniform on. Yes, sir. Good morning, Danny. Good morning, Mom. What's up? Bennett's getting replaced by Staff Sergeant Justin Merkley. General Merkley's son?
Starting point is 00:07:21 That can't be all bad. He's a total turd, Mom. You'll be fine. Just do your best and follow his orders. But why, Mom? Because, Danny, we have to make sense. order to win this battle. We have to wait for Greg and Penny.
Starting point is 00:07:37 Bennett's with these guys. He trusts them to do what is right. And I think we should too. I guess you're right. I love you, Mom. Hey, Slugger. How are you this morning? Okay. You two can catch up when Merkley is done with you. More, you think this is a game? No, sir.
Starting point is 00:08:18 You expect me to expend resources to save your friends, and you can't even go to town one night without seriously jeopardizing our activities here? Sir, I'm sorry. I... I don't need an explanation. I have the mayor's wife who lost an eye due to a severed optic nerve, along with three broken bones. I have townspeople curious about the petite participant who resemble the lone survivor of Sacramento. I have plenty of explaining to do without listening to your excuses. Your Honorer rank has been reduced to private.
Starting point is 00:08:47 It's a good thing you were Bennett was there, or most you might have killed her. My protection can only go so far. Do you understand? Yes, sir. How would you like your family to be thrown out of here? How long do you think you would last against the feds without the protection of the mercenary army? Do you realize how many people will be willing to turn you in? Nothing to say?
Starting point is 00:09:13 I can't undo the path, sir. No, but we can control the law. the future, you're to remain on base. You go from your tent to the mess, and here, do you understand? Yes, sir. Good. Now get the hell out of my office. I'm still in the process of mopping up your mess. That sounds fun. It's not the worst I've had his face. I bet not. Ben is waiting for you in the gym. Now that will be much worse. A caravanna buses. Gee, that narrows it down.
Starting point is 00:10:49 Didn't Bennett say Walter out of the radio? They've got to be with this group up here. Let's check it out. Did you bring food for us? Please, sir. We haven't eaten in days. Get them a box of MREs. Yes, sir. You folks need to keep moving as fast as possible.
Starting point is 00:11:15 We've had reports of the water level rising at Bastraids. God bless you, sir. Have you seen a caravan out of Vegas led by a couple named Greg and Penny? There would be a soldier with them by the name of Terrence Walker. I'm Terrence Walker. I am one happy man to have found you. I've orders to get you and your crew to home base ASAP. Better say you?
Starting point is 00:11:39 Yes, sir, he did. Ready to keep moving, Terrence? All? What the hell are you doing back here? I'd like to introduce my boss, Lieutenant Colonel, Colerges. Sir, I'm honored to meet you. What are you doing out here? Honoring the wishes of Fred bringing her family home. What's the hold up, Greg?
Starting point is 00:12:01 Penny! They came back for us. We need you to get your family and supplies and come with us. But we can't leave everyone behind. You can and will. Our vehicle can move faster, and we must get this crew back to base. Don't worry. We have crews in motion to ensure everyone gets to the mountains safely.
Starting point is 00:12:18 And then what? Most of them are headed north. We're going to launch an assault on the central region. Take those bastards down. I like the sound of that. Forget your things. Let's move. Come on, hon.
Starting point is 00:12:30 Vince and Erica sends them back. us. You have to go. Okay, give us a minute. What about us, sir? When will you get us out of here? Don't worry. There's a food station set up about eight miles up the road. Trunks will be bad for you all. Thank you, sir. Disaster coffee is fueling disaster relief in America. Our coffee is roasted to order and ship to your front door. You cannot get it any fresher. Visit disaster coffee.com and can't. caffeinate with a purpose. That's disaster coffee.com. Good morning, sweetie. Oh, damn, Bennett. I guess I should thank you. For what? Mercury restored my rank and said I should be honored for dealing with you all these years. I guess that makes up for that bruise on your face. Oh, now you got jokes. You're private now.
Starting point is 00:13:36 Looks like you're back under my orders. Where's my sir? Are you serious? I am. We're going back to the drawing board. Vince agrees we need to keep training. That lady took you down. I was drunk. No excuses, Erica. On guard 24-7. What happened to relax and spend some time with your family? You purposely evaded Inslee, Erica. I know you. No. He didn't notice us leave. He was too busy with some young chicky to notice. But you noticed. I can't do this today, Bennett. Oh no, you can't give up now. You've never given up before. But I'm tired, Bennett. These people have given up on me. I can't fit in anywhere. My friends are out there. My family is strong. They can take care of themselves. I'm done. I can't fight anymore. Gleason, can you go guard the door? No one comes in. Yes, sir. It's been hard, Erica.
Starting point is 00:14:46 You put everything at risk time and time again for a thankless job of trying to restore freedom. freedom for people full of opinions, but it's worth fighting for. It made this country great, a place where all people are equal. I know I'm a hard ass. I told you long ago that I would push you until you broke, but I would never give up on you. And I still won't. If you give up, what will the people do? I don't know, Bennett.
Starting point is 00:15:12 I don't even like people that much. They'll give up too. You got this, Fireball. You sure? I believe in you. No, enough blubbering. Do you think you can suck it up and get a workout in? Yes, sir.
Starting point is 00:15:26 Come on, let's get your wrist tape. Can I take your plate, T.J. Is there food left on it? No. Then take it. And get the door. What? How did you?
Starting point is 00:15:50 Just get the door. Yes, T.J. Hey, Jenny. Is T.J. there? Yes, man. Send her in, Jeannie. What do you want? We got word from Tran. He's taking care of the problem down south.
Starting point is 00:16:06 Excellent. Have a seat. Thank you, T.J. He's got all the forces he needs? Patrice, Nathan Yuri dialed his compound in. He said it was the least he could do for everything you did for him. He's a loyal man.
Starting point is 00:16:20 Would you like something to drink, Susan? No, honey, I'm fine. Can you give us a minute? DJ. Go to your room for now. Yes, T. Is this about the boys? They didn't touch her, did they?
Starting point is 00:16:31 They didn't touch Ginny, but they've been acting like jerks in the marketplace. They are my chosen fighters. They are above everyone else. To do whatever they want to the women in the marketplace? I asked Nate to keep an eye on them. I'm sure he would have told me if it was as bad as that. Nate's been busy on missions.
Starting point is 00:16:50 Jeannie! Yes, DJ. Have your trips to the market, Ben. Good, DJ. It's fun to hang out with Margaret. And how do the boys act? Did any of them touch you? No, no, DJ.
Starting point is 00:17:04 They're nice to me, but... But what? They're not always nice to see. to the landowner girls there. How do they act? Uh, like you, T.J. Thank you for being honest, Jeannie.
Starting point is 00:17:15 Do the dishes. Yes, T.J. I'll watch it and have Nate pop in on the next time they go. Thanks, T.J. I knew you would take care of anything before it caused a disruption in the market. Are you going to Mr. Lee? Yes. Tell them to have Sergei give them double workouts for a week.
Starting point is 00:17:31 I will. What are all these maps? Refugee movements in the West. You're still. chasing her. I'm just curious. Teresa wanted you to leave it alone and worry about your own family. I know what she wanted.
Starting point is 00:17:45 I miss her. So do I. Anyway, I'll leave you on your mats. I got work to do. Let me know when Tran is successful. Otherwise, Yuri can go with a team. I will. Good night, T.J. I'm not in sure she wakes up at the right time of day. Private case, wake up.
Starting point is 00:18:51 What time is it? It's only... What are you doing here, sir? Where's Nicolton? I have replaced Master Gunnery Sergeant Nicholton as commander of this squad. Are you feeling better this morning, Cupcake? Yes, sir. Good.
Starting point is 00:19:32 Then the two of you can get your skinny little butts in line. Yes, sir. We're moving through the night, I quit from a different star. Flying over the streets. Go get some broken hearts. But they can even touch us with on a different feed. Paradise is wood and then we got the east.
Starting point is 00:19:51 Go get some child. Yes, sir. This case, how are we doing today? All right. Have you seen Jenny around? Markley asked Ms. Jenny to cook over at the Lieutenant General's mess. Thanks.
Starting point is 00:20:47 No problem, Ms. Case. Hi, Kay. Hi, Daniel. Hi, Erica. Let me introduce Victoria Gleason. She helped for... Text me. Nice to meet you. Likewise, ma'am. How's it going over at the school? Really good. Some parents have been trying to maintain their children's education,
Starting point is 00:21:11 but others have completely let it go. And how's Earl? He's busy. There are so many people that need help. Yesterday, he met another doctor named Stan that asked if he had heard anything about Erica Moore's whereabouts. Really? Do you know him? He's an old friend, but it's probably better that he doesn't know I'm here. It's nice to know he survived. What are you doing this afternoon? I'm going to the entrance to draw.
Starting point is 00:21:45 Sounds fun. I think I'm headed back to the gym. I'm not sure what I'm going to work on, though. I'll be sure you'll figure it out. I love you, Mom. I love you too. Make sure you're home by dark. I will. I'm headed out as well.
Starting point is 00:22:01 You ladies have a good. great day. See you later. This is Jane Austen, otherwise known as Survivor Jane, and the voice of Dolores Chapman. I'd like to invite you to my website, Survivorjane.com, where I write in a conversational tone on topics of how better to prepare yourself and family. You can also find links to my books, what could possibly go wrong, emergency survival hygiene, and my game book, puzzling over preparedness. You can also find information on Prepper Camp. The largest three-day preparedness event in the country every fall,
Starting point is 00:23:05 hosted by myself and my husband Rick Austin. Mr. Rowan, sir, I hope you don't mind me coming back again. Not at all. I've been expecting you. Come in. You put my painting on the wall? Of course I did. You're a magnificent artist. I have another canvas for you. Oh, no, sir. I couldn't. Mind you let me decide that, boy.
Starting point is 00:23:45 Today I want you to paint whatever you'd like. Anything at all. I'm so tired Wandering Rolled with a rainbow spiraling around it The rainbow is God's promise to man What does it mean?
Starting point is 00:24:37 He will never destroy us again It's beautiful, but... But what, sir? But you always work in happy places. You turn your people into lively cartoons With smiles and goofy faces When you draw them
Starting point is 00:24:51 When you draw landscapes, You intensify the colors. Your artwork is always bright. Your work should be a reflection of yourself. Eventually, you will have to face the other side. Life needs color, sir. If I have them, I'm going to use them. Colors are meant to be enjoyed while you can,
Starting point is 00:25:12 because soon they'll all be gone. Interesting point. Sorry to come my visit short again, sir. My grandparents will expect me. I understand. I'll be expecting you tomorrow. I'll be here. Bummer.
Starting point is 00:25:39 I thought Bennett would be here. I think he was going to spend the afternoon with Michelle. Are you going to be here a while? Yeah, I'll let you know when I'm headed back to the tent. I saw you benching with Bennett yesterday. What were you pushing 155? 165. Damn, not bad for a little lady like yourself.
Starting point is 00:26:09 Names Grim. Karen Case. Pretty good. The guy with the hammer tattoo uses an interesting style. That's Glema. The Viking fighting style. Crazy. I didn't know they had one.
Starting point is 00:26:32 What's you got there, Graham? This here is Karen Case. She's the one we stopped benching with the sergeant yesterday. I'm Ned Bedford, and this is Geert Trison. Where are you from, Karen Case? I'm originally from Michigan. But I lived in California when the Great Quake happened. Oh, she's a Calais girl.
Starting point is 00:26:51 Boys? That's right. Yeah, but are you a Cali girl? Do you want to smoke some green? Sure. Let us get cleaned up. Beautiful knife you wear on the small of your back. Oh, you like this.
Starting point is 00:27:32 It's not a knife. It's a Roman short sword. I forged it myself. That's beautiful. We'll have to get you over to my shop one day. I'm smoking a wife and three boys for me. for me. I was divorced before the Great Great.
Starting point is 00:27:56 My teacher had been done in knowing it. I'm so sorry. A son named Ren and a daughter, Lisa. The Norse gods honor me with their health. I will teach them glimma. The North fighting style. When Ren turns eight. I saw you using it.
Starting point is 00:28:22 I'd love to learn some. I could teach you. But right now we have to get back to work. It was nice to meet you, Callie Girl. It was nice to meet you guys as well. Let's have a look around here. Restricted access door. Who know what's in there?
Starting point is 00:29:09 It's locked. Get back anyway. You must have been dropping some bomb in the bathroom. Yeah. Must have been that rabbit stew. What are you so giddy about, Miss Miles? How's Miss Longlegs? Michelle is fine.
Starting point is 00:29:34 I see. You just finishing up? I haven't been feeling it today. I've just been hanging out. With who? My friend, Staff Sergeant Gleason here. Anyway, I'm headed home to sharpen my knives. Get some rest.
Starting point is 00:29:47 You look tired. I will. Thanks for the cover, Victoria. Just like old times, right? Yeah, except Benet's cool. He'd be pissed. I wasn't doing what was expected of me. But he'd get over it.
Starting point is 00:30:10 He's always been there when I need. I hated him and saved my ass too many times to count. I respect him. That's why I listen to him. All he's ever tried to do is make me a better version of myself. I get it. That's the same reason I follow General Merkley. He helped me get away from that psycho landowner who took me in.
Starting point is 00:30:34 If I fight, I'm safe. If the feds win, I'm screwed. I killed that asshole. I'll be going to the prison camp. How would the feds know? Merkley got me out of a holding cell after the invasion. I was already headed there. Good for you.
Starting point is 00:30:54 Enough was enough. We trained to fight, and I was done cowering. Give you breakfast. Get your plate, meet with me. You're quiet this morning. I have something to tell you. Open up your mouth and say the words, girly. I wouldn't let James and Rick take me to the pit.
Starting point is 00:32:21 Did what? He said I wasn't supposed to go there, and I told them that, but they wouldn't listen, and I didn't want to come home alone. Where was Margaret? It was after we dropped her off. Did anyone touch you? No, T.J., but I didn't like it there. I'd rather go to Margaret's.
Starting point is 00:32:39 You did the right thing, Jeannie. I don't want you out there alone. Those boys know better. Nate came and found me, Wayne, brought me home. Do the dishes, and then take the rest of the day off. I'll eat dinner, Mr. Lees. Can I go to Dolores's? She has new book for me. Whatever, but only there and back.
Starting point is 00:32:57 Yes, T.J. DJ, sir, I was on my way to see you. What do you have to say? Wayne, Rick, and James took Jeannie to the pit last night. And what did you do about it? I found those bozos and I kicked the crap out of them, T.J. I don't know what they were thinking. Did Margaret know they were going there?
Starting point is 00:33:24 No, T.J. How did you find out? So, me and me and me. Margaret was sitting at home playing with the baby. My buddy Jojo comes by. Who? Jojo. He's on gate duty.
Starting point is 00:33:38 He was on gate duty? No, sir. Jojo was drunk. He had been at the pit and said he saw the boys with your girly, T.J. So, I go down there, and sure enough, those bastards are getting drunk. And Jeannie was with him. I'll about knock them all out right there, T.J. But, Jeannie needed an escort home.
Starting point is 00:34:03 After that was done, those bozos felt some pain, sir. Good job, Nate. Thank you, sir. I'll see you later. Looking for those little bastards. They have been confined to quarters. They are going to need time to heal. Because of Nate?
Starting point is 00:34:37 Nate beat the hell out of them. but when I found out what happened I took them back to the pit and let the black shirts beat them A public display? Very nice Sergei. Couldn't have done it better
Starting point is 00:34:53 myself. I've got your back brother there's no need to involve yourself with a scolding of arrogant little boys Everything okay out of your son Everything's fine Mr. Lee Nothing for me to do when you've got fine men like this supporting you. You're finally catching on, son.
Starting point is 00:35:15 Come on. There's always a whiskey. This is L. Douglas Hogan, voice of T.J. Swinson. You can follow me at Amazon or go to Facebook.com slash honor your oath. I look forward to seeing you there. Dexter has been learning so much at the homesteads. It's good for him to be posted up there.
Starting point is 00:36:15 I agree. And Johnny doesn't seem so depressed. He was hoping to get to see his dad again. I guess they will. left a lot on set. The man hasn't been executed yet. There's still a chance Johnny may get his shot. True.
Starting point is 00:36:35 You know, it was funny to hear Dexter talking about making soap the other day and all the different sense you can give the bar. He was going on and on. That's like star going on about all the different types of food and the recipes and flavor combinations. She's like a kid in a candy store. Much better than kidney beans and broccoli. at Vegas camp. You can say that again. Let's do forms today. I feel like stretching. We're going to be
Starting point is 00:37:04 moving a lot of dirt over at the farms this afternoon. I'm good with that. Goodness knows they have to keep the food coming. They're expanding the greenhouse again. With all these people, they haven't been able to put enough away for the winter. We're going to have to take Denver. The food store there is the key to keeping all these people alive once the cold comes. They're planning something. There are more and more people getting added to the forces every day. Good. I can't wait to be myself again. It's crazy, though.
Starting point is 00:37:40 Because you know that the same, if not more, people are headed south as well. I hope Greg and Penny are okay. Cole will get them here, Erica. We got space cleared five miles up. We can stage them there. Keep it moving. Get them out of here, Virgins and I can direct the teams. Save as many as you can't hold.
Starting point is 00:38:26 We will, sir. And take care of yourself. We'll do, sir. What will we do? We keep surviving, and we keep pushing for more ground. And the road has already been so long. Tell me about it. Mom!
Starting point is 00:39:02 Family is safe. Let's get you all back to your crew. You've been out at the homestead every day this week. Bennett's so busy with Michelle. I'll never figure it out. The bush is in the back of that training field where the hole in the fence is gives you good cover. I'll hang the bandana back there if someone comes looking for you. Thanks, Victoria.
Starting point is 00:39:47 As far as I'm concerned, you're our leader, and if you want to go, who am I to stop you? Well, thanks anyway. Did you forget where the hole in the fence was? Sorry, I'm late, but I wouldn't miss a chance to go fishing for anything. Here is your rod. The guys are already at the lake. What do you mean? It is the stare of a warrior. I have seen it on the battlefield where too much blood has been spilled. That's the truth.
Starting point is 00:41:13 One day I must die victoriously in battle, so I may reach Valhalla. I wish I could stay here forever. Safe and the road has been so. The road has been so long. It is good to be in harmony with nature, but freedom is worth fighting for. I respect your spirit, Karen. In death is honor. A Nord shows respect, but kneels to no one. The fight is clear.
Starting point is 00:41:46 It's the process that gets me. Sometimes I think one force is just the same as the other. That is why we never get involved. in that mess. I'll fight for my home and my neighbors. I will fight for my country. But the forces in power now were not created by our forefathers. They don't stand for freedom. The Merckes were tanned in hand with those bastards for decades before they were forced to fight. Why didn't you join the militia? The timing has never been right. My father was all wrapped up in it, and it got him killed.
Starting point is 00:42:30 He did not die fighting. He died hiding in a hole like a coward. When I go, it will be on a battlefield, defending my family's honor. I'm sorry to hear that. Nice one. Thanks, gear. Oh, shit. What time is it?
Starting point is 00:43:05 I have to get back. your hurry, Karen. I got to get back to meet my kids for dinner. That is not for a few hours yet. Look, I got to go, okay? See you later, guys. 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 888-373,000, 7888 or visit human trafficking hotline.org for more contact information. You may be helping to save a life. How do you son?
Starting point is 00:44:12 You've grown into the lead aisle as you could be. Thank you, Mr. Lee. I feel good. Almost relaxed. Don't be going soft on us, T.J. Things are dialed in and the whiskey is good. You are going soft. Don't you have a mission?
Starting point is 00:44:28 My man complete them before I can. What about that? woman out west. I let it go, Chuck. Let the Supreme Leader worry about it. I had never thought I'd see the day. It's a new day. I'm headed home. See in the morning, son. Let me feel like nothing to hold me back. Tame my time. Just enjoy the ride. Passing by, life is good best I've ever felt. What brings you by? I have a proposition for you, T.J. Let's talk. Sounds good. Get us a bottle and glasses. Yeah, what you're mind, Carl.
Starting point is 00:45:49 We know where she is. In the homesteads in Colorado? You son of a bitch, why didn't you tell me you knew where she was? You never asked. What happened? We got a tip from a mayor's wife in a nearby town. There was a fight one night at a concert. A woman who looked a lot like the lone survivor broke some of her ribs and severed her optic nerve.
Starting point is 00:46:13 So wild and free. This woman would be so much fun to break, but she always slips from my grasp. The Supreme General wants us to kill the family and bring her back. He wants to unite the country through marriage. Visions of grandeur. I've been chasing this girlie for years, Carl. I'm tired of this game. All you have to do is provide me with backup.
Starting point is 00:46:40 You know how to get these people home? I don't know. I'll have to talk with Mr. Lee. Neil here. Yes, T.J. I'm going to go to bed if you don't need anything. Go. What's your plan, Carl?
Starting point is 00:46:57 So many people are moving through those homesteads right now. And anyone with fighting experience and a will to fight is being recruited. We join and blend in. Then, when the time is right, we take her and kill her family. Interesting. Please, T.J. I'm asking you as a personal favor. We have it all set up.
Starting point is 00:47:21 This would make our careers, and if we fell, nothing is lost. I know you know how to bring her home. Fine, I'll go, but only as a consultant. I told myself I was done with this girlie. It's time to move on. She belongs to the Supreme General. Excellent. We have to travel light.
Starting point is 00:47:41 You get two men together, and we'll head out tomorrow. I've still got a lot to put together tonight. I'll see you in the morning. Sounds like a plan. Yes, DJ? Go get Sergei and Yuri. Okay. What the hell is your problem?
Starting point is 00:48:09 They killed her. She wasn't mine? She belongs to Sergei. That life is over now. The sooner you accept that, the easier your life will be. So tell me what I want to hear. T.J. I'll never run from you.
Starting point is 00:48:26 Quit crying. Your tears won't fix a thing. Now listen, I'm going out of town for a while. You help Jeannie with my house. house. Mr. Lee healed my fighters. I'll be back before you know it. What's going on, T.J. I want you and Gerber to come with me to get Erica. Gray wants me to help bring her home. What about me, T.J.? We have to travel light and go into coming. I can't bring my twin top fighters. You're taking Sergei instead of me? Uri. Don't question my business. I need you here.
Starting point is 00:49:13 I don't know how long will be gone. Yeah, T.J. And I'm so late. I am Bennett. I'll make it look like I was running springing dreams. Thank you for laying low these past few days. I wanted to personally let you know that your friends have been located there on the caravan that arrives tomorrow. Thank you so much, sir. I envy your dedication. If it's not raining, you're not raining, right? Keep up the excellent work, private.
Starting point is 00:50:25 Thank you, sir. That's an awful lot of mud on your pants. and not a lot of mud on the field. I was running laps earlier on the other field. Anyway, I got to go tell the family the news. See you later, First, Sergeant. There sure are a lot of them. Where are they all going?
Starting point is 00:51:03 They'll have to find new homes, honey. Don't worry. I'll build them. What are we going to do, Cole? You're more than welcome to join the effort. We'll find a way to help. I'm going to start training. That's good.
Starting point is 00:51:16 We said we'll talk about it. Dad taught me to fight, and I can shoot as good as anyone. Carmen, that's enough for now. Mom said we talked about it. You knew Vince and Erica before the quake, right? Yeah. Vince coached me at wrestling when I was a kid. Well, that takes me back to old times.
Starting point is 00:51:34 Simpler times. Isn't that the truth? Erica moved to California when we were in high school. When did you meet Penny? Not a... I knew surviving without her. It can be worth it. Aw, thanks, babe.
Starting point is 00:51:48 How much longer till we get there? We're almost there. People come. The sun are invincible. The side begin. What's up, Danny? Aren't you excited? Hi here, Mom.
Starting point is 00:52:38 For Miss Carver and Crystal. Are they here yet? Not yet, Superstar. I can't wait to tell Carmen about when Sean proposed a star and fit it with that huge heart. I should have taken it as a sign run. He's lucky Kyle took care of him
Starting point is 00:52:53 But not me. How's Kyle been? I haven't seen him in a while. He's good. Been running messages back and forth for the mercenaries and Matilda. It's the only way to ensure they can't be intercepted. Hey, they're good to see you. We have to quit meeting like this.
Starting point is 00:53:30 Isn't that the truth? Girl, let me tell you. I am beat. Come on, let's get you settled in. With pleasure. I'm so sorry they didn't go back for you. Cole explained it to us. Mercily didn't have the resources.
Starting point is 00:53:43 Blah, blah. Blah, blah, blah. Bennett tried, guys. He did. He even socked Mirkley across the mouth, but achieve nothing except the night in the cell and a temporary demotion. I'm sorry, guys. It's not your fault. I made it all in one piece. I'm sorry, but I know you. Victoria Gleeson from Las Vegas, remember? She used to organize all those events when we first arrived. I knew I recognized you. How are you?
Starting point is 00:54:13 It's so good to see you again, Penny. We sure did have some laughs, didn't we? I'm doing good now. You're fighting with the marks? Absolutely. Let's get you guys settled in. We need to head over to the other line. These refugees are going north.
Starting point is 00:54:32 Mercenary members are checked in over there. Then we'll get you a shower and dinner. Sounds good to me. It's two rows over from here. The bathrooms are down at the end of the row Got it I've heard people talking about a town north of here I can use a night out once we get recharged
Starting point is 00:55:01 Use some dancing We can't Why not? Well, Erica had an incident With some moonshine And the mayor's wife Really, Erica? She had it coming
Starting point is 00:55:13 Well, maybe not to the extent That I dished it out But she did have it coming I bet But I just want to lay low for a couple of days anyway, Greg. You guys have earned it, that's for sure. What does it look like out there? The water is coming.
Starting point is 00:55:31 Looks like Navonna will be under water soon. The mountains seem to be getting taller in the quakes. It's weird. I wish I knew where Brad was. He'd have some answers. He's the guy that warned you about the next wave, right? Yeah. What about Cassidy?
Starting point is 00:55:45 Is she here? She's not back yet. She will be soon. Another week, I think. What do you guys think? About what? About what's going on here? What are the feds doing?
Starting point is 00:55:56 The operation here is going like clockwork. The mercenary army is expanding and training. The civilians are being moved to safety. The feds have been quiet, and that's why the scouts are out. It's almost been too quiet. So either they got hit hard by the quake, or they're regrouping to lay down an assault. Within the month, I'll be able to use my real name again.
Starting point is 00:56:20 Once the people are safe, we'll take down the western capital in Denver and claim the West officially under the control of the people and unite it with the south. Then we all go north, push back against the Montana border. Haven't the Fed sent any forces this way to help with the refugees? Nope, they've been absent. Crazy move. Trust me, I'm getting sick of being called Karen. I can't wait to take Denver. Karen?
Starting point is 00:56:48 Who thought of that? Bennett. How's he doing? Pretty good. He got hooked back up with Miss Longlegs here, and he's been spending a lot of time with her. I like her already. Who is she? Her name's Michelle.
Starting point is 00:57:01 She's a lovely woman who can put up with Bennett's crap. Wow, I'm impressed. We can talk about all this later. You guys probably want some time to rest. It's come a long way. I can sleep for a week. Greg, sleep for a week? Yeah, right.
Starting point is 00:57:17 Give him a couple hours, and he'll be ready to party. Well, I could use a shower. Me too. We'll leave you to it. They made it on everyone as in one piece. Thank God. Thank you for listening to the Changing Earth Audio Drama, based on the Changing Earth novel series by Sarah F. Hathaway.
Starting point is 00:58:05 Grab your copy on Amazon or get signed editions at Changing Earthseries.com. This content is copyrighted. For details on performers, sound effects, and music credits, visit changing earth series.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.
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