Free Transformation: Zombie Crusade VI by J.W. Vohs, Sandra Vohs Page A

the point in the story where Luke had accepted recruits at the oxbow-settlement, an obvious rustle of movement and soft whispers spread through the crowd. She waited for the people to quiet down before explaining how they could help.
    “Our preferred recruits are single people in good physical condition, and our first priority is to make sure that your settlement keeps plenty of qualified people here who can continue to protect it. We ask that farmers and anyone familiar with agriculture remain in the settlement to put a crop in the ground this spring. We’ll also need to round up all the domesticated animals still roaming around and get them in the hands of some capable caregivers. We all have important roles to play, and we have to depend on each other if we’re going to defeat the enemy.”
    Several people raised their hands to ask questions, but Gracie waved them off and motioned for Luke to come forward. He stood up from where he’d been sitting a few feet away and addressed the crowd. “Those of us who’ve survived the outbreak now face two existential challenges: hunger and General Barnes. Food from the old world will keep us going for a while, maybe a year or two, but eventually we’ll need the folks capable of agricultural production to feed the people fighting the war. The Allied Resistance can’t take everyone who wants to volunteer; we need good fighters in the settlements too. Please, talk it over with your family and friends tonight, and those of you who want to join, and meet the criteria, come see us in the morning.”
     
     
    “This is so exciting!” Thelma whispered to Andi as they were escorted aboard a small yet luxurious jet.  Andi rolled her eyes behind her sunglasses, unable to think of an appropriate reply.
    Barnes was already on board, and Andi felt her skin crawl at the sight of him. He looked up from his papers when he heard the women approach, and his thin lips curled into a sinister smile as he watched Andi secure her luggage and take a seat directly across from him. “Welcome, ladies,” he boomed cheerfully, “I’m so glad you could accompany me on what would have been a dreadfully boring flight.”
    Thelma had trouble looking him in the eye, but she gushed, “It’s an honor, Mr. President. Is there anything I can get you?”
    “As a matter of fact there is,” he answered with a fake earnestness that reminded Andi of a televangelist. “Once we get in the air, I’d love for you to personally prepare our in-flight food. I’ve had the kitchen well-stocked, and no one has a way with pasta and vinaigrette like you do. I’m craving a fresh pasta salad, a variety of cheeses, and something creative for dessert. Can you handle that?” 
    Thelma nodded enthusiastically, and she managed to reverently meet his gaze. “Again, Mr. President, it would be an honor.”
    “I’d be happy to assist you—” Andi offered, hoping for an opportunity to keep her distance from Barnes.
    “But then who would keep me company?” Barnes cut in. “No, dear, you can stay here, and we’ll engage in some scintillating conversation.”
    Sliding her sunglasses on top of her head, Andi raised her eyebrows and batted her eyelashes. “Can I expect to stay inside the plane all the way to California?”
    Barnes laughed merrily. “I’d forgotten how much I enjoy your company, Ms. Carrell. You can certainly expect to remain on board all the way to our destination.” The captain’s voice announced that they were ready for take-off and reminded his passengers to fasten their safety belts.  Barnes reached over and patted Andi on the knee. “Buckle up, my dear. Safety first.”
    It was Andi’s turn to laugh. “I’ll try to be more careful this time. At least Thelma and I didn’t have to dress alike, so you’ve demonstrated growth in your sense of fashion—maybe your sense of safety has improved as well.”
    Thelma looked confused, even though she was smiling vapidly at Andi as the plane sped down