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long time doesn’t mean it will never happen again. And let’s not forget that there are oil refineries and storage tanks in town, and hydroelectric dams near the city. Those could easily become targets for terrorists. Plus, there’s a history of earthquakes around here dating back to the 1880s, and even more tremors recently. We have tornadoes and floods and blizzards, too.”
    Erin leaned forward and spoke quietly. “Val, you may never need this bag. I hope you don’t, but it’s my money to waste. All you have to do is put it in the back of your car, or whatever car you are riding in. If you ever need it, the things that are in that bag could save your life. Humor me, please. I’ll feel better knowing you have it. And it isn’t just for end-of-the-world scenarios. People get stranded by car trouble, weather events, and earthquakes, all the time.”
    “I think it’s a good idea, and I appreciate your doing this for us.” Sarah took a sip of her soda. “I’ve been reading one of your uncle’s survival books and I’m beginning to understand better that life can and will change suddenly. I want to be ready.”
    “Oh, Sarah, I’m so glad you’re on board. Jen and I were discussing the economy today, and I want you all to know that if for any reason, you need to ‘git outta Dodge’, you are more than welcome at my place.”
    Erin picked up the bag in front of her and dumped the contents on the carpet. “I’m going to go through this one with you. All three bags are the same, so you won’t have to empty yours. There’s a set of lightweight camo in each bag, to put on over your clothes in case you have to move through the countryside. Each of you should tuck a pair of jeans, a shirt, socks, and hiking boots into your vehicle, too. Professional clothes don’t do so well if you have to set out on foot.”
    There’s a first aid kit for obvious reasons, and three days’ worth of emergency rations. There’s a big knife, some paracord, and three ways to start a fire, in case you need warmth. There’s a flashlight, too.”
    Valerie’s expression made it clear that she still wasn’t convinced, but she remained silent about it. Sarah pointed at a small package with something shiny in it.
    “What’s that silver thing?”
    “That, ladies, is an emergency blanket. It will reflect your body heat, or you can use it to stay dry if it rains or there’s a heavy dew. And this,” she held up a similar, but slightly larger packet, “is a sleeping bag made from the same material. They’re so light, it won’t weigh you down to carry both.”
    Erin completed her explanation of the rest of the items, and answered Sarah’s questions, but Valerie had nothing to say.

Chapter 5
    Early May
     
    Glancing up at the quarter moon perched above the oaks, Tanner settled back in his camp chair. Peace flowed through him as he breathed in the mingling scents of the forest and the smoke from the campfire.
    His companion added a small log to the fire. An older man, he carried his age with dignity. Talako, whose name means ‘Gray Eagle’, grabbed a couple of bottles of beer out of a red cooler and handed one to his grandson.
    “So you had a good trip? Did the seminars you presented go over well?”
    Tanner took a long drink of his beer. “Yes, and there were thirty in attendance. From the comments when it was over, the officers felt that they got something worthwhile from it. We did a demonstration, too. There is something very satisfying about helping law enforcement officers.”
    “You were gone for two weeks. How did the search go?”
    “I found exactly what I was looking for in Florida, a female pup with fantastic bloodlines. She’s a beautiful little girl, and has already learned several simple commands. I am just glad I don’t have to go to Europe now. Something is telling me to stay close to home.”
    “Speaking of home, Hashuk malli [1] , when will you marry and give me great-grandchildren? You need to find your