“Where’s Joseph?” Grandpa Carmichael asked.
“They should be here. Come on, ride!” Sheriff Katcher answered. Then Steve’s car appeared behind.
“Let’s go!” Joseph shouted then all vehicles drove at maximum speed away from Carter’s farm. They were just eleven feet away from the house when it exploded, then the remaining parts of the farm. The explosion followed the vehicles to the fence. Everyone stopped for a moment when they reached further. They were all panting, while Carter’s farm was burning.
When they went home, everyone was happy that no one got hurt. Except that the hostages almost escaped, but fortunately the deputies were there to kill them except Carter and his father. They felt grief to find out that Carter’s mother and sister already died, but they were grateful that Big Ira was dead. Sheriff Katcher promised to help Carter rebuild their farm, and send his deputies to recover Big Ira’s body and present it to the media.
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
After Big Ira’s death, lives in Humvees went back to normal. Sheriff Katcher with the help of his deputies, Captain Ellis’ Army, and Finley’s Militia tried to bring back the peace and order in their town. People’s lives continue, and they allowed refugees to stay, but with the condition that they need to help the townspeople to produce goods.
The search and rescue team found Big Ira’s dead body because crashed walls protected it from the explosion, but most Marauders turned into ashes. Captain Ellis and Finley with their respective groups helped Carter and his father demolish the debris, and build a makeshift house. Sheriff Katcher invited the local press including Maxine to announce that Big Ira is dead, and it had reached the Government’s attention. Most officials felt relieved, but the General seemed discontented because he wanted to kill Big Ira. His death somehow brought silence, but the problems of the country remained. Scarcity, inflation and corrupt officials. The solution lies on the Government’s hand as they monitored Humvees’ progress.
Grandpa Carmichael decided to look for the buried chest of gold on their farm. He surveyed the ground using a device that identifies gold. The machine beeped behind the barn, so he dug the soil. Five feet below the area, Grandpa Carmichael saw the wooden box, but it was locked. He was curious to know the truth, so he broke the chain. Grandpa opened the chest, but it was empty. There was a letter saying that Great Carmichael returned the golds to its righteous owner. He didn’t mention the name for the owner’s safety, because people will keep on looking those golds and hunt the owner.
Colonel Eaton, on the other hand, returned to the base camp. Captain Ellis tried to interfere because the General might kill him, but Colonel insisted. He said that he knew a few people who were an ally besides he had to bring Big Ira’s body to the Government. The officials decided to burn the dead body and throw it in the ocean. When Colonel Eaton returned to the base camp, the General looked at him like he wanted to kill the Colonel. However, Colonel Eaton didn’t back down, and he’s not afraid of the General nor anyone.
The medical team that Sheriff Katcher developed had arrived, and they were in a night shift. Joseph led the hospital management along with Doctor Steve, Walter, Nurse Janette and Erwin. They also recruited other public servants and volunteers to help them rebuild their town. Money was still a problem around the country because of the inflation, so people pay services in exchange for good trades. Joseph didn’t want to be selective about the things, but for as long as they are beneficial.
Sheriff Katcher found out about Victoria’s profession, so she asked her if she could lead the school in town. She was hesitant, but Walter pushed her to do the right thing, and do it for their son who got killed. Victoria agreed then volunteer teachers helped her taught the grade-schoolers.
Life at the farm sustained. Grandpa Carmichael and Tony rebuild their farmhouse, and they hired new farm men to help them produce crops and take care of the animals. Grandma Carmichael was still in charge of the kitchen with Maxine and Rashida.
“I hope this continues, Mom,” Bobby suddenly appeared from nowhere.
“What do you mean, Bob?” Maxine asked, and pulled Bobby around her arms.
“Peace and harmony. Money has no value, but we’re still happy and contented.” Bobby replied he had grown so much.
“It only goes to show that money isn’t everything in this world, Bob. In times like this, people need food, water, and shelter. Above all, we need a heart filled with love and a mind that is willing to do what is right.” Grandpa Carmichael suddenly appeared in the kitchen with Tony.
“For as long as we have each other’s arms, nobody can ever ruin our family,” Maxine added.
“Enough of this drama. Go and play with your cousins there. Adults will cook.” Tony answered to amuse his family.
Joseph and his friends returned home after their duty during the day. As promised, Captain Ellis and his men were still escorting Joseph and his group back and forth between the farm and the Humvees Hospital. Joseph tried to insist, but Captain Ellis said that they have to do it until Martial Law ended. The Army and Militia were still going to the farm after their work, and Grandpa Carmichael was happy that it had been their home. Joseph smiled when saw his kids and their cousins playing in the front yard.
“Hey, kids. How’s your day?” Joseph greeted them.
“Hi, dad. Uncle Tony cooked the cow you brought the other day. It’s delicious!” Joseph laughed as he remembered bringing the cow from the hospital to their farm. People can give everything helpful, so the medical staffs have been bringing home strange and unusual things at home.
“Really? It’s getting dark now. Let’s go in, and eat your Uncle’s dish.” Joseph invited the children.
Late at night, Joseph and Maxine decided to watch the news just like they were doing before. They’ve been busy the past few days protecting the farm and fighting the Marauders. The screen flashed the story about Big Ira and other cities around the country. The presence of the Military calmed the nation, but hunger arose because of the war.
“Is it the beginning of change? Or is it only temporary?” Maxine wondered while looking at the TV.
“We still have a long way to go, but what’s important is that we have our family and some friends together,” Joseph replied and looked at his wife.
“By the way, did you know that Victoria is a grade school teacher?” Maxine said trying to lighten the mood.
“No, I had no idea.”
“She’s been teaching the kids. Finley knew about it then he brought books the other day.” Maxine replied.
“That guy. I thought he was something unreliable, but it turned out that he has a heart.” Joseph replied, and they both laughed. The couple talked for hours, and it was something that they haven’t done for a long time. Nobody knew how long peace would stay on their side, but Joseph with his family and friends decided to enjoy every moment of it.
CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE
Early the next morning, Vice President Ariana Marie was reading Martial Law reports in her office, when her phone rang then pressed the answer button.
“I did what you want.” The Doctor said from the other line.
“Glad you called.” Vice President carefully replied because the Security Head was standing beside her. She opened the TV saw flash reports about the President that died because of complications.
“Give me my money.” The Doctor stated.
“I’ll send it to you.” Vice President answered and hanged her phone.
The Security Head stared at the TV monitor with eyes wide open. He clenched his fist and looked at Vice President Marie who was watching.