The Gathering of the Clans Book 2

TGC Book 2 Chapter 28

Book 2 Chapter 28

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Manuel sighed. "We have collected all the medicine we can. Everything the doctors on your channel have recommended. Our clinic is not so big so we've set up the supplies at the hotel downtown. It's the only place big enough to handle it if it happens. We realize that going from house to house is impossible. We have three doctors but no nurses. We have 17 families that refused to leave their homes. We've carefully kept track of where everyone is staying just in case. We have morning check-ins just like you do. Most people are taking it seriously but some just blow it off as silly. Gordon chews them out about it, what else can we do."

"All they've seen is Zion. They haven't seen other places like the ones we passed through coming home. The dead were lying in the streets with animals eating them." Manuel patted his brother's arm. "Those sights will remain with me for the rest of my days. I would not wish them on others Baptiste." Baptiste shook his head. "More will die simply because they think it has passed them by. Life goes on. No one thinks of what lies ahead. They hide their heads and think all of it will be gone tomorrow when we know it will not." "I know Baptiste they will learn for some it will be too late but they will learn. Now go with the family while I speak with Ian." Baptiste sighed. "Fine, more of your secret meetings."

Manuel sighed. "He's right. Some people, they'll talk and pray and wait for it all to be over. Thank goodness most of them are practical and are cooperating. I feel like I'm taking my family back to a situation that is working up to a boil. What else can I do?" "Ian clinked his coffee cup on Manuels. "We can get another cup of coffee." Manuel gave a short laugh. "Is that your subtle way of saying it's all in God's hands?" Ian giggled "Could be or it could just be me saying to relax. What comes, comes. We just deal with it the best we can. You've taken all the steps you can to be prepared. There's nothing more you can do at this point. So take a breath and enjoy another cup of coffee." Shane set down a plate of cookies on the table. "While you're at it try one of Chad's cookies. He makes a mean oatmeal raisin cookie." Manuel grabbed one and bit into it. "Mmm, this tastes good. Tell Chad I want a couple of dozen of these to go. We're already rationing food in Zion. Haven't had any goodies like this in days."

"Are you guys that low on food already?" Manuel nodded. We've pulled in all the food to the town hall. Rationing now means we'll eat for now. but there's no way it's enough to see all of us through winter. Part of what I wanted to talk to you about was seeing if we can get in on raiding the dead towns for food and supplies. We have about 30 people with their marks who would be able to go out with you guys. We were hoping that if we help we could get a share of the stuff found." Ian nodded. "We can do that. I think Collins is planning a big shopping trip. Not quite sure where yet. I'll let him know you want in on it." "Thanks, Ian, it'll really help us." Ian smiled. "We can also send some food home with you to help as well."

"You really need to get Fredrick on board with letting the Army help you guys. They're sending us supplies and I know they're getting supplies in New Post through Pastor Blair's church. Food and medical are really helpful." Manuel sighed. "He's convinced they'll take us over and he thinks you're in on it which is why he's leery of asking for your help."Ian laughed. "Why am I suddenly the bad guy? I'm over here doing the best I can for the people here. The Army guys came to me and made a deal when we said we'd take in any survivors, especially the orphans. Tell you what, you can talk to Colonel Williams. He's the one that set up the deal with me. Talk to him and see what you think. As far as I know, they're just interested in keeping survivors alive."