Survival Skills

They spent the rest of the day on the farm. During a brief tour, Aunt Betty showed them an old but sturdy shed—not yet completely overrun by mice—where they could store their newly acquired supplies. They had agreed to share some items with the Keplers, but a large portion remained their private property. Aunt Betty, being a woman of principle, wouldn't dream of touching it. She had no use for freeloaders, but she wasn't about to take advantage of them either.

Mrs. Kepler and Heather had spent the day taking care of the farm animals and learning how to use various farming tools in preparation for the harvest. Rose didn't miss the jealous look Heather shot her when they returned. She also noticed the sideways glances she threw at Andrew.

Some things seem destined to happen, regardless of circumstances. Once again, it took Heather mere days to fall head over heels for Andrew, even though he had barely spoken a few sentences. Admittedly, he was attractive—though not quite as much as Ethan—but his unapproachable demeanor clearly signaled "keep away" to any romantic advances.

Rose felt a flicker of irritation at Heather's behavior but quickly dismissed it, focusing instead on more urgent matters. With the apocalypse looming, there was no room for petty jealousies or teenage drama. As long as Heather didn't drag Rose into her immature schemes, Rose would simply ignore it.

Mr. Kepler returned in the afternoon with news from three neighboring farms in the valley. The neighbors didn't seem too concerned about the portals, viewing them as distant events or possibly even jokes. Nevertheless, they agreed to sell some of their harvest along with a few animals—including a couple of goats and young chickens. The group could collect these in the coming days. In the meantime, they needed to expand the chicken coop and inspect the fences where the goats would be kept. 

Aunt Betty seemed content with his arrangement, grunting in agreement.

After storing their supplies, all of them gathered in the farmhouse kitchen for dinner and to discuss their next steps. To Rose`s surprise it was Andrew who first directed his words at everyone.

"I'd like to discuss something with all of you," Andrew began. "Ethan and I plan to acquire survival skills that could prove useful in the coming months. If anyone of you would like to join us, you are welcome."

"Where do you plan to learn these skills?" Mr. Kepler asked. "It may not be wise to travel into town frequently."

Andrew promptly addressed Mr. Kepler's concern. "We won't need to go into town. We've been fortunate enough to make contact with a man living in the woods. He's well-versed in off-grid living and willing to teach us survival skills. These might come in handy—and even if they don't, it certainly wouldn't hurt to learn."

Aunt Betty's eyebrows shot up. "Really? I've never heard of someone living in this area."

Andrew elaborated. "He's quite reclusive, which explains why you might not have heard of him. But he's an expert in wilderness survival. We were lucky to find him through a mutual acquaintance."

Aunt Betty nodded, her curiosity piqued. "Well, I suppose that makes sense. I already have my hands full with the farm, but it wouldn't hurt you young'uns to learn more."

Mr. Kepler clearly pondered Andrew's words, weighing the options. 

Andrew's reasoning behind his offer was twofold: First, it would heighten the Keplers' sense of indebtedness to them, rather than the other way around. This, in turn, would ensure they'd look after Rose properly during their absence. Second, the stronger each individual, the stronger the whole group. If they were to stay together for an extended period and encounter precarious situations, it would be best if everyone knew how to look after themselves.

"I appreciate your offer," Mr. Kepler replied thoughtfully. "For now, I'd like to focus on tending to the farm, helping Betty, and bringing us closer to self-sufficiency. However, it would be beneficial for the children to learn these skills, if they're interested."

Rose wasn't surprised by Mr. Kepler's response. He had his own ideas about how to proceed. It was already a concession that he would allow his children to choose whether or not to participate. 

"Count me in!" Luke quickly shouted, his eyes were alight with excitement, clearly eager to learn those survival skills. It would actually be good if he would partake in the training. Rose could use this opportunity to further discuss they abilities, away from prying eyes and ears.

Heather, meanwhile, played the part of a timid yet strong girl. "I'm willing to try if it's helpful to all of us," she said, casting a sidelong glance at Andrew. 

Rose nearly rolled her eyes. Why pretend to be hesitant when it was obvious Heather was eager to spend more time with Andrew in any way possible, rather than feeding Aunt Betty's chickens?

"I'll help Robert and Betty on the farm. You young ones can go on your own," Mrs. Kepler said. "Just take care of yourselves."

"Don't worry, Mrs. Kepler. We'll stay close to the farm," Ethan reassured her, exchanging a quick glance with Andrew, who nodded slightly. "I thought the field behind the barn might be a good spot."

"That's good, then," Mrs. Kepler replied.

With that settled, the group dispersed to rest for the night.