Page 68 of Forbidden Moon
BEN PEEKED INTO THESurveillance Hub on his way to this morning’s meeting. Subdued lighting did not conceal the transformation of the once-comfortable room into a space cluttered with computers, cables, central dispatch, and monitoring equipment. Artem Sanford bent low over a screen, speaking into a satellite phone while holding a cell phone to the other ear.
Ben didn’t know how the man retained his calm demeanor amid the frantic work pace. He’d been up most of the night directing the placement of cameras, integrating the existing ultra-sonic alarm system, sorting out the satellite phone coverage, and assigning the drones to cover various stretches of the border. The large viewscreen now displayed a simple map of the packlands, filled with numerous symbols in varying colors. Ben didn’t know what it all meant, trusting Artem to fill him in later.
A few paces away, Ben entered the new Tactical Center. With weight benches and equipment pushed to the walls, it left space in the middle for a folding table, chairs, and an easel with a detailed map of the packlands. On the wall hung clipboards containing assignment rosters and chow schedules for the combined teams.
Ben spotted Oscar York in his “office”; a mash-up of sawhorses, plywood, and a metal folding chair. Ugly, uncomfortable, yet meeting the need. Oscar didn’t seem to care one way or another. He’d just finished up a phone conversation when Ben scented Caleb Vogel on approach. He noted the man’s dark, puffy eyes when he stepped into the room, obviously weary yet smiling. The three men took their seats around one end of the center table, and Oscar got things started.
“Good news, gentlemen. The fuel depots are now in place, and our men have begun their wheeled patrols. We don’t have enough bikes for total coverage, so we’ve interspersed them among the forces on foot—mainly along the north and west borders. We can also use them to run supplies or ferry team members back and forth as needed. The bike closest to the packhouse is available to the command team if necessary.
“I spoke to Artem a few minutes ago, and he’s confident all the new surveillance equipment will be in place and online by noon. Once that happens, I’d like to schedule some drills using the alarm system and get my men familiar with it. Afterward, I think we can begin the patrol schedule. In theory, we should be able to intercept intruders no matter where they might cross the border. If anyone slips past us, the cameras and drones should enable us to stop them long before they reach the central compound.
“Caleb, I’d appreciate your input before we start regular patrols, including any changes you would recommend. You know the packlands better than anyone, and there may be more efficient ways to achieve the necessary coverage. You have a terrific set-up here, and I believe we can use some of what you’ve done to help other large packs with their security.”
While Caleb appreciated Ben’s support, he found Oscar’s words affirming, and it buoyed his spirits. Artem, too, praised the alarm system and the work they’d been doing—especially given their limited resources and the vast swath of land they protected.
“Thanks, Oscar. I’m pleased by how quickly things are falling into place, and as far as I can tell, our teams are integrating well. However, we need to look at a couple of issues before we’re done. I’m concerned about the main entrance being overwhelmed if intruders decide to arrive en masse, whether they attempt to distract or force their way in. And, if they block our only exit, it’s going to make an escape by car impossible.”
Ben blanched, only now realizing the vulnerability of a single guard and the danger of being bottled in. Though Oscar nodded in agreement, he didn’t seem at all surprised.
“I’ve been working on that problem and would like to suggest a solution.”
York got up and went to the nearest map, running a finger along an abandoned road.
“I’ve taken a close look at this old road, and with a few minor adjustments, it offers an escape route. It exits onto Highway two about a half-mile to the east of the main entrance. First, we need to create an extension, connecting it to the parking area. Then, it’s a simple job of clearing a few felled trees and leveling out some rough spots. Lastly, we build a false barrier fence at the highway—something that falls flat, allowing vehicles to drive right over it.”
Caleb’s eyes narrowed, trying to picture the road in question from memory.
“I like it! We’d need a bulldozer to get it done, though. What do you think, Ben?”
Ben nodded, wishing he’d thought of it himself.
“It’s a great idea. I have someone in mind for the work who owes me a favor. Caleb, what are we going to do about the guardhouse watch?”
“I recommend at least two armed men on duty for every watch; more if we had them. In addition, we could put up the command tent right next to the guardhouse. It can serve as the nerve center for the entire northern border and provide extra manpower as the guys cycle in and out through the day. If we bring meals to them like we’re doing for the security cabins down south, there should always be plenty of backup.”
Ben raised an eyebrow at Oscar, silently asking for his opinion. The man gave a decisive nod.
“No problem. I’ll have to rework the schedule a bit, but it makes good use of personnel and supplies. By the way, Ben, have you decided what we’re doing with intruders?”
Ben grunted.
“For now, we’ll escort them off the property with a warning like we did yesterday. If we keep seeing the same faces, I want to give Evan or Jack a crack at them before being turned over to the authorities. I’m keeping the Sheriff’s office informed of every single incursion and any personal information we collect—names or license plate numbers, for instance. Lou has already spoken to Sheriff Tucker, and he’s keeping his eyes and ears open. For now, that’s about all we can do.”
The alarm system startled them with an abrupt series of short whistles, interspersed with long pauses before repeating the cycle. All three men rose in haste, heading for the Surveillance Hub. Artem was already on his satellite phone, providing details.
“Red team six. I count three on foot heading east near the Squaw Creek crossing.”
“Acknowledged Base. On our way.”
Artem quietly worked controls for one of the drones, trying to get a better look. On the screen, three men appeared, heavily armed, walking single file towards the interior. Noise from the drone’s rotors attracted the intruder’s attention. One of the men raised his gun and fired, cutting off the live feed.
Artem cursed.
“Red team six, be advised intruders are armed and hostile. Detain if possible. Wait for backup before moving in.”
“Acknowledged, Base. Holding position.”
“Red teams five and seven, join team six for intercept. Extreme caution.”
