Colored pins mark towns across three counties.
Search areas.
Volunteer groups.
Supply routes.
But something about the pattern makes the back of my neck prickle.
Boone sees it too.
“These aren’t random,” he whispers.
“No.”
“They’re connected.”
Pastor Eli steps forward and claps his hands.
The room quiets instantly.
“Alright folks,” he says. “Let’s get started.”
People settle into the pews.
Boone and I take seats near the back.
“We’ve got two guests joining us today,” Eli continues. “County coordination. They’re here to learn how our teams operate.”
Several people nod.
Friendly smiles.
Open faces.
Trust.
It’s almost unsettling.
Eli gestures toward the map.
“Now as you all know,” he says, “our goal is simple.”
He taps the map with a wooden pointer.
“When people go missing—”
Tap.
“When storms hit—”
Tap.
“When communities need help—”
Tap.
“We show up.”
