Realistic or Modern (Closed) When it all falls down...

[KAYDEN]

Drake

As soon as Marco ran off Drake stood for a moment in shock. They dropped anchor and began looking but really what could have happened? It’s not like she could go anywhere but the boat?! Right? Well... suddenly it clicked in Drakes mind and he realized why worry was in everyone’s mind. “Oh shit.” Drake grabbed a pinch and took off after the others, heading in the opposite direction of Marco and only meeting back up with them when he found Marco and Haru yelling out into the blackness that was the ocean.
“Oh shit again.” Drake cautiously joined them near the edge and took a firm grip on the railing as he watched with wide eyes as Lo bobbed in and out of the waves, fighting to stay afloat. Haru was screaming at her fight and for a minute it looked like she was ready to give up... finally the red haired girl finally grabbed onto the life preserver and Drake quickly looked over to Ava.

“Ava go get one of the cabins ready with blankets and towels. And run a hot bath.”

Drake carefully moved over to Haru and wrapped one hand around the rope as well and began to pull while keeping himself steady with the other.

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Callie

After the first few days the rest seemed to just...blend together. She stopped keeping count, but about a month had passed since Callie first entered New Orleans. She did her best to distract herself from missing her brother, and it was easy to do with everything to do around the rapidly growing town. Space was running thin; the beds in hospitals were reserved for the sick and injured, the school had cots and acted as a shelter, and the hotels and homes were used for families. As of now Slade and his group of friends resided in something Callie never imagined herself in. A tent. They were spread out along Bourbon street since it was their 'base of operations' or something of that nature. Everyone got a tent-mate, Slade was deemed the best fit for Callie's tent mate. The two seemed to get along, unfortunately Callie still had nightmares that woke her up at night. Sometimes she'd get up and look around, but most of the time she just laid back down.

Being here was the first time Callie's life goal wasn't to be a wife and mother. She wanted to help everyone hurt by her fathers society. At first Callie tried to spend her time in the hospitals to help as many people she could. It didn't last long, not too many injured people took kindly to her. She was part of the family that started this, she couldn't blame them. So she stopped going to the hospital, she felt like she was doing too much harm than good there. She turned her attention to legalities and books, things she knew she was good with. Here she was allowed to read, one of the only opportunities of the place Callie took part in. Well, that and the fact that she could wear pretty floral dresses again. She still didn't leave without an escort, she was still proper and well mannered, she didn't drink or gamble; it was hard to break the ideals the cult had instilled in her.

After about a week Callie started to carry a backpack around packed full of law books and notebooks. One day Callie was going through her backpack and seen a piece of paper she didn't remember writing. Actually, she knew she didn't write it. Everyone hates you. Go back to where you came from. Callie didn't remember leaving her backpack alone around strangers. It scared her. A part of her was too ashamed to tell Slade. He was always so busy and it seemed like she was always something of him, she couldn't possibly bother him with something everyone probably felt. So she hid it, hoping that it would go away.

It didn't. The notes got worse, more mean and more personal. Soon they turned violent. Slade won't like your pretty face when it's all chopped up. That one chilled her to the bone. What did she do to make someone so mad? All Callie wanted to do was help people here. She understood not everyone was receptive to her, she never thought anyone would want to hurt her.
--

Today was the day Slade and her were supposed to travel somewhere to get information. She was excited about leaving the town, she had felt sort of trapped since she was brought here. Besides, Slade was strong, helpful, smart, and the only person she felt she could trust. She was looking forward to a trip with him. It'd be the first time in a few weeks she wouldn't be constantly looking over her shoulder. "Hey Slade, how do you make everyone feel so safe? Is it because you're strong?" Callie looked over at Slade and bat her lashes curiously as she helped pack up the Jeep for their trip. Her backpack got tossed in the passenger seat where she'd be sitting. "I know I help out with the garden, and the cooking, and the cleaning, but I want to be able to protect everyone too. Like you." Gillian never would have been on board with her knowing any form of self defense.

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Haru

Lo nearly drowning was a nightmare that haunted Haru. Was she tortured? Abused? Violated? Yes, yes to all of the above. But seeing her red hair bob underneath that dark water, not thinking that she'd ever come up ever again...the thought of losing her best friend? The thought of a life without Lo? She didn't want that. Lo was strong and vibrant and she was everything Haru never got to be. She admired her.

The few days they traveled to Canada was full of walking on egg shells. Between waiting to see if they'd be caught, to see if they'd make it, and tending to Lo like an overbearing doctor, the few days felt like years. But once Haru seen that Welcome to Canada! Sign on the pier she nearly fell to her knees. They were safe. Haru would never have to be a handmaiden again. Lo and her could be friends. Hell, they all could be friends again!

The group was welcomed in with warm blankets and being escorted to a hospital to be examined. Haru couldn't let her guard down though, she got combative when anyone at the hospital tried to touch her. They ended up sedating her. Why did she get so combative? She couldn't tell you but every time she thought someone was going to touch her she threw a punch or a kick.

Haru stayed in a inpatient group therapy typed setting for the next week and a half. There were a few girls there with stories like hers, most of who had to kill to escape their situation. Thankfully the mixture of therapy and medication brought Haru back to a better place. They removed her cattle tag and released her to Drake and the others on the condition she continues her extensive therapy and medication.

A few weeks later and Haru found herself comfortable in the home Canada put them up in. There were four bedrooms, two baths, a cozy living room and an eat in kitchen. They were all given phones that kept them updated on the news, allowed them to keep in contact with each other. Haru found herself downloading books onto the phone to help her pass the time.

Thankfully Haru was acting sarcastic and witty like her old self. "Nothing is on. Now I remembered why I worked all the time. Work was never boring." Haru flipped through the channels as she sank into the plush couch. Her eyes lingered on the picture of a missing poster from Callie. It aired from an old American station and it broke her heart every time it came on. She hoped Callie was okay. With a small sigh Haru turned off the screen and sat up a little, her thin fingers running through her long black hair.

 

[Colt Voltage]

Marco

As soon as they got Lo in the boat he made sure everyone went inside before he took back control over the boat. It took a few days of travel but they eventually hit Canada. They were welcoming as ever, kind and understanding. He stayed with the girls as long as he could but, eventually, Marco was taken for his own examinations despite his protest. He was cleared medically and then spoke to a few federal agents, one from the old America and one from Canada. They were told the group would be placed together as a group of informants. Drake was valuable and the others had sensitive information as well.

The wait for Haru to get released took forever. She was sick and needed help, he was jut thankful she was finally getting it. He tried to make the home as comfortable for everyone as he could while he waited for her to be released. He especially looked out for Lo while she was away, he knew it'd be the nice thing to do. Hell, he tried to make Ava as comfortable as possible. She basically came back from the dead. In a way really they all did.

It wasn't for a couple weeks did the government start to question while Marco was still there. He was free to go back to Italy at any time; he was never an American citizen. He had a home. But...he couldn't leave his friends like this. The government seemed to understand. At least, for now anyways. He silently prayed that they didn't ship him back to Italy.

"Haru stop your complaining-" He paused when he walked out to the living room and seen Callie's picture. His stomach churned slightly as he shook his head. "If you want to keep complaining I'm sure I could rile up Drake and get him going. He'll complain your ear off for a minimum of an hour." Marco chuckled quietly before walked back into the kitchen, flipping a few more of the pancakes he was making.

 

[EclipseRosee]

Ava

Ava had started her political fight in Canada by trying to convince the officials that spoke to them to allow her to return. They thought she was brainwashed and clinically insane. It took about a week for them to realize that she wasn’t... that she really wanted to do something to help and that she thought returning would do so. However once Ava shared her experiences they decided she would be much more useful elsewhere, especially if she was willing to talk. That’s how Ava started sitting in on meetings and councils. They asked her about what she had gone through and what she knew about this family. Ava chose to paint Callie and Gillian in a light that she wasn’t sure was one hundred percent true but... she hoped it was.
Today Ava was leaving a meeting that was meant to update everyone on worldly affairs. To then it was an update to her? Terrifying news. Through the meeting the remained composed but as soon as it was over she got in her car and raced to the home they were staying in. She thew the vehicle into park and nearly tripped over her black stilettos as she raced up the entry way.
“It’s EVERYWHERE.” Ava gasped as she stood in the hallway between the kitchen and living room. “Like EVERYWHERE. Some countries are remaining neutral but a lot of big guys have taken on the same ideals as Sullivan and others are fighting and it’s all just insane. There’s going to be world summit type thing and they would like us to go.” Ava stopped to finally take a breath and take off her shoes. She was thankful she was in a place she could have her own style again, it made her feel more human. Today she was in black heels with black tights and a black Peter Pan collar dress with a purple blazer and purple bow holding her hair back in a long pony tail.
Ava moved to the kitchen where Marco was making food and sat at the kitchen island with a sigh. She didn’t know what to do anymore. Suddenly she was tossed into this world and simply because she wasn’t afraid to speak anymore she was considered a representative. Sometimes Ava wished she was shy and quiet, back in her shop in Portland. She wished she had her grandmothers book back... it broke her heart to know it was just in some casino on the ground. If it hadn’t been destroyed. She wished Gillian and Callie were here... she wished they would realize they are better than all this.

“I miss being normal.”

 

[KAYDEN]

Drake

Drake had spent his time in Canada trying his best to do as little as he could. Ava could get involved and whatever but honestly? Drake would just visit Haru when he could and beyond that lay the fuck low. He cared. He wanted to make sure his mom could at least get out but... what was he supposed to do short of going and getting her? At this point that wasn’t possible anymore! So instead Drake read and started looking for a job with a newspaper once more. However no one wanted to hire him, they wanted a story from him. So instead he stayed home and lounged.



After some time Haru finally came home and she seemed a lot better, that was relieving and thankfully a step in the right direction for all of them.



“Why’d I hear my name?” Drake grumbled as he came into the living room and stared at the TV for a long moment, wincing a little at the poster of Callie. “Hey I’m not that easy to rile up you off brand Mario.” He scowled and crossed his arms across his chest just as Ava came bursting into the house. “What’s your problem Morticia?” Okay maybe he was easy to rile up.



Soon Ava was running her mouth about her meeting and Drake rose an eyebrow. Hell no was he going to that meeting! They would kill him on the spot no matter the circumstances around them!



Drake turned to Haru on the couch and plopped down next to her, pretending as if he hadn’t even seen or heard Ava. “We could go rent movies? If TV sucks that bad you baby.”

 

[ZombieBaee]

Lo

Her friends had saved her from the seas, Lo stayed to herself for a little while. You know how they say you see your life flash before your eyes? Yeah that’s true. It really scared her for a while. Just how close she had actually gotten to death. She thought that she was finally safe after leaving DC but god was she wrong. After they arrived in Canada, Lo was checked by a dr. She was pretty ill from her time spent in the water, she had pneumonia and had broken her leg in the struggle. She would be fine but she wasn’t going to feel great for a while. They patched her up and sent her home for bed rest and medicine.

Over the past month Lo spent her time miserable in bed or hobbling down to be miserable on the couch. She spent a lot of time listening to Haru complain about the television. That part at least made her smile. Today Lo woke and pulled on a white hoodie and a pair of black shorts over her cast before grabbing her crutches and making her way down to the living room. As soon as she neared she could alysa day hear bickering and chuckled a bit.

“Man the way you two bitch you would think we were still in DC. Ya know? That place we were basically human garbage?” Lo joked with a lot more dark humor now. “I mean we could watch some fear factor to feel similar.” Lo fell into the couch with a wince as Ava came in and she listened with a raised brow.

“We’ve already told them so why do we need to go do shit? If it’s really that bad we should distance ourselves!”

 

[ZombieBaee]

Slade

Callie had been doing okay in New Orleans, at least it appeared as so to Slade. He knew that the hospital didn’t go well but honestly he should have seen that coming and warned her. She was a face that associated with the people that hurt them and maybe Slade tried too much to quick. The people around Bourbon Street were warming up to the idea of having her around and thankfully a lot of people really looked up to Slade, if they hadn’t she wouldn’t be here in the first place.

Slade spent his time training himself and others in combat as well as survival techniques. When he wasn’t training he was hanging out in the tent that Callie and himself shared. It housed three “rooms” and their beds were nothing but air mattresses with blankets on them. But hey, it was better than the alternative. He had seen that way too up close and personal.

“What?” Slade huffed as he loaded their supplies into the back of the Jeep. They were getting ready to travel to the safe hold in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula where a boat would then take them over to Canada for the summit. It was the first time Callie would be seen and could finally not be considered missing. They weren’t the main representatives of the rebellion but they were helpful for sure. “It’s just because they’ve seen what I went through... when I showed up here I looked like shit. It’s an underdog story.” Slade was strong, he didn’t want to brag but he was. “You’re always welcome to train with us Callie, if you want to get better at fighting. Or if you want to learn how to use a gun we can help you with that too. But don’t feel like you have to do either “

Slade walked around and hopped in the drivers seat before turning the key and letting the car rumble on. “You ready? Make sure to buckle up, I’m going to have to drive fast.”

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Haru

Marco made her eyes roll into the back of her head. "At least Drake is entertaining." Suddenly Ava was home and she was going on about how this insanity has spread to other countries, and how they wanted them to come to this summit meeting. The thought was laughable. Haru was a criminal over there, there was no way she could go back. Not that any sane person would want to go back to that mess. "You and Marco can have a great time at the Summit then." The thought of her even wanting them to go to the summit was insulting. The fact that she even wanted to go was crazy! Just because she came back from the dead didn't mean Haru was going to do whatever she wanted.

Though, the thought of the government wanting them there made her nervous. Haru and Marco were both in difficult political positions. Yes they were there as 'informants' but unlike everyone else they weren't American citizens. Haru was in the process of it but never got to it; work kept her extremely busy and the citizenship process was difficult. Japan was one of the countries sticking to their beliefs and rejected Sullivan's beliefs, Canada was overflowing with refugees. They needed space. Marco and Haru were both resources and space that could occupy another country. "If I have to I will. I'm not going to be happy and I'm going to bitch the whole time."

Haru gave a small smile at Drake as he entered the room. "Hey." At first Haru thought she'd have a difficult time facing him because of the guilt she felt. But as soon as he came to visit her she felt relieved. He didn't seem to hate her, he just treated her like her old self. It was nice--everyone else was tiptoeing around her. "Mario and Morticia? You're funny today." Her eyes followed Lo as she crutched in. "Fear factor? Nearly drowning wasn't good enough for you? Sit down, Drake's right. We're going to turn on a movie and forget this shit." Haru quickly turned on the TV and scrolled through the movies. "Pick your poison kids."

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Callie

“You're literally insane. You know that, right?" Callie gave a small nervous laugh as she climbed into the jeep. Honestly? Callie was having a hard time adjusting to this life. Yes she was friendly, chipper, and sweet as candy but the whole world was different for her. Women weren’t supposed to protect themselves, that’s what she had her brother for. The thought of even having to defend herself, let alone wield a gun, nearly sent her into a panic. Not many pressured her to learn but the few that did made her look down on herself. Like Hannah. Hannah and Slade were good friends so Callie would never say anything to him about it.

“Don’t get into an accident. Just because you can survive death doesn’t mean I can.” As instructed she pulled her seat belt across her and clipped it in, her bright eyes looking out the window. "Will we see Gillian or my dad?” The whole month she had been with him she didn’t say a word about Gillian or her dad, she didn’t want to think about seeing them. Now? Now seeing one if not both of them was a big possibility. Callie had no intention on returning and she was afraid they’d take her back. What if Canada made her go back with them?

"I’m not strong like you, I can’t protect myself against Gillian or my dad. I’m afraid if they start barking order I’d-“As she opened her notebook from her backpack she lost her train of thought. The pages she had been taking notes on neatly were written over with black permanent marker. Bitch. Whore. Slut. Fake. Liar. The insults continued. It sent chills down her arms and crushed the small amount of hope she had left. With a long sigh she shook her head and closed up her notebook.

 

[Colt Voltage]

Marco

Did Drake just call him mario? “Mario doesn’t flip pancakes for a spoiled socialite.” Marco mocked Drake as he finished the last of the pancakes. He flipped the last pancake on the stack on the plate before walking over to the table. As soon as Ava came in ranting and raving about some summit he sat down the pancakes and went to the fridge. They wanted them all there? Marco was a driver; sure, he had heard a few things here and there. But would it truly mattered what he had to say? He wasn’t a citizen of the states and he wasn’t a citizen of Canada.

Though, the fact that this was in other countries enraged him. How could others take up those ideals? Women weren’t property and shouldn’t be treated as such. Women were born to do more than just have babies. They were people too. “I’ll go and voice my opinion but it doesn’t matter, we aren’t political figures like Gillian is.” Marco pulled the maple syrup from the fridge along with the butter dish next to the stove. Soon Ava joined him in the kitchen and he gave her a sympathetic smile. She was trying so hard, he only hoped Gillian held up the end of his bargain. “We all miss our old lives. But it’s not like we can go back to them, we can only reminisce.” Marco sat the things in his hands down at the table which was already all set with plates and drinks.

He turned to Ava and gave her black hair a small ruffle. “We are stronger for surviving what we have survived. It’s shaped us into new people. I know you miss your old life but you would have never met the lot of us if you kept locked away in your tea shop. Right?” He glanced over towards the entrance of the living room. “Breakfast everyone.” He shone a gentle smile at Lo. She seemed off since she got out of the hospital but, like he said, they had been through so much. Trauma changed them and they had to grow through that trauma. The best way to do that was stick together and support each other.

 

[EclipseRosee]

Ava

Ava had appreciated Marco's words of wisdom and gave him a small smile, "Thanks Marco." The four of them spent the rest of the day watching stupid movies they found on demand and eating the meals that Marco cooked for them. At the end of the day it became apparent that it was time to actually discuss more important matters. Ava explained the summit to everyone that was to begin in a week from today and pleaded with them all to go with her. Everyone agreed but everyone was apprehensive, Ava couldn't really blame them... she was as well.

--

A week passed and today was the day that they were being picked up to travel to the conference. It was about an hour drive to the hotel they would be staying in for the duration of the meetings, they themselves weren't meant to speak until the third day but Ava herself had been asked to be the main representative for the escapees of the bullshit they were calling the New States. There would be representatives from every faction of this trouble as well as every country. They were meeting to see if compromise was possible to stop the fighting but Ava herself, as well as many others, found compromise to be bullshit! And she wasn't afraid to say so... not anymore. She knew nothing about speaking at this sort of stuff, she had been at various meetings by now about this conference but that didnt mean she was any form of official! All she could hope was that she was able to find Gillian before all this started and that he would keep his word to help her... at least offer a few pointers.

"This place is huge..." The group had dropped off their luggage and finished getting ready before they were taken to the location of the conference. Today Ava had her long raven hair tied back with a white bow and her makeup was minimal. She made a point to wear a black skirt that only reached her knees so it would show off her gnarly scar from having her tattoo forcibly removed. She paired the skirt with a white button up and a grey jacket. "This is so surreal..." They walked the halls of the giant government building, it had its own food court and smaller conference rooms everywhere as well as the giant one they would all be meeting in later today.

"Let's go get something for breakfast before this all starts... I need something in my stomach before I throw up from nerves." Ava started towards the sleek looking food court and found it already bustling with people of all races and gender. It was kind of amazing to see if she could forget the reason they were all there. She walked up to a counter and asked for a black coffee and a bagel with a smile before stepping aside to wait.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Lo

Lo was finally off the crutches and was only in a brace at this point so at least there wasn't another thing she needed to worry about during this whole thing. "It's a bit of overkill huh?" Lo peered out the window of the car that had been sent for them as they pulled up to the giant building. Honestly? She wasn't sure that this meeting would do jack shit, it seemed like every other political meeting ever. Just total bullshit. But... since Ava said something a week ago she had spent a lot of time watching the horror that was the news and if their stories could help even a little bit she supposed she had to at least try.

As they got out of the car, Lo fixed her outfit and hair in the reflection of the window. She was wearing a navy pantsuit and her hair was curled a bit, her leg brace secured over the material of her pants. "Right I guess let's get this started. A full day of sitting and listening to boring bullshit... Uh... no offense Ava."

Inside she followed along until they reached the food court and looked around a little before following behind Ava and getting nothing more than an orange juice and then turning to Marco, "So do you think people would be offended if I brought a crossword or something in there?"

 

[ZombieBaee]

Slade

It had taken Slade and Callie an entire week to finally reach Canada, they stopped in various safe houses and hiding spots along the way. Getting into Canada was a whole other thing, they were notified of Slade's arrival so all he needed to do was show his ID but Callie was a whole other story. They had decided it was best to not make anyone aware of Callie's whereabouts for her own safety but when he showed up and the border with her people were apprehensive. It took a day of them being in holding before they were finally released and believed that she really was on the side of the rebellion.

"You ready for today? I know it'll be hard for you to see Gillian and your dad but... just remember. I'm here okay?" Slade reached over from the drivers side of the Jeep as they parked and ruffled her blonde hair gently. He was nervous for the day but most of his concern was in Callie's safety. Recently she had been down... he wasn't sure why but being apart from Gill had to be part of it. Plus there was the high chance that Sullivan would be present and that was even more worrisome. "Want to go in?"

Slade jumped out of the Jeep before walking over and opening the door for Callie, holding out his hand. "Everyone is going to start talking the moment they see you... just keep your head high ok? They don't know you, they just see your face on their TVs... you're not Sullivan's daughter, you're Callie. You're sweet and care about people. You're smart and lawful and you know more than the life you were told to live. You can do this. I have faith."

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Callie

To say Callie wanted to vomit was describing her anxiety lightly. Her brain was buzzing with all the possibilities of the day and she was terrified. How would Canada react to her? Good, bad? Would the others be there? Would they hate her or be glad to see her? How would her family react act? There was only one constant in that whole jumbled equation and that was Slade. She knew he'd stay by her side, he believed in her. That was enough to see her through this. So, as they traveled through the week, she was thankful that he was there by her side the whole time.

After Canada finally believed her about her intentions she was allowed to enter with Slade. She wore a fitted v-neck forest green dress paired with matching heels, her platinum wavy locks falling past her shoulders and down her back and did her best to hide her anxiety and nervousness from Slade. Soon enough the Jeep was parked and they were there. Her heart pounded nervously in her ears as he spoke beside her. He was there for her, she wasn't alone. As soon as his hand touched her hair she felt her heart flutter and worries fade away. "Yeah, I'm ready." Callie shone a sweet smile to him as he hopped out of the Jeep.

When he opened the door for her she happily took his hand. Suddenly she felt good about this. "You're the only person to have ever said anything so nice to me. Be careful or I might start to fall for you." Callie stood from the jeep, shut the door behind her, and squeezed his hand lightly before she took off inside.

Just as predicted all eyes turned to Callie and Slade as they walked in. Her heart started to race and she took a deep breath; one of the representatives of the united states approached them and started going on about the place. They would stay here during the day while the meetings take place and at night they'd return to their hotel. Food and drink were available for free in the food court and their meeting room. She found it hard to focus as her eyes darted all over the room to see the people staring at her.

The rep shook their hands before moving on and leaving the two of them on their own. "Want to get something to drink?" Callie walked towards the food court as she held onto his hand. She did her best to avoid the eyes of the people as they entered the court. Several coolers of water were out so she handed one to Slade before taking one for herself. "So when did he say the meeting would start?" To be honest she didn't really listen to the schedule for the day, this was kind of a whirlwind so far. Still no sign of her father or brother. She took a long drink of her water before looking around the food court.

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Haru

The mere thought of summit rattled her. A building full of people that encouraged the 'New States' behavior? Taking on their 'culture' as their own? It was sickening and nerve wrecking. As well as Haru had progressed it seemed like it was all for naught; flashbacks of her stabbing Daniel were more frequent. The overwhelming and crushing feeling of guilt weighed on her once more and she found it hard to look at Drake again. She didn't have a choice about going to this damn thing though. Her therapist had revealed to her that if Haru didn't play along with what was happening that she was going to be deported. Honestly Haru couldn't lose Drake--or anyone else for that matter. Lo was her best friend, Marco was like a brother, Ava an annoying political sister and Drake-well, he was different. She couldn't describe the feelings she felt for him but they were different. All she knew was she didn't want to lose any of them.

Haru's tall figure stepped from the car and smoothed out the black pantsuit with a plunging neck. Her shoulder length black hair was straightened and framed her face perfectly, her black ballet flats following to the food court. Haru ordered a black coffee before turning to Drake. He looked more nervous than she did. "You okay?" She gently rubbed his arm with a small smile. "Hey after this is all done for the day do you want to rent a movie, order room service, and get trashed? I feel like drinking is the only appropriate thing to do after this." She took the coffee from the barista with a small smile and thanks before turning back to Drake. She went to say something else but found her jaw dropping. "Callie? And is that Slade?" Her brows furrowed together before she moved across the court. Wasn't Slade dead?

"The dead guy kidnapped the princess? No one can say they seen that one coming." Haru gave a small, awkward smile. "Good to see you guys are alive and well. I assume you're on the side of the old States with us?"

 

[Colt Voltage]

Marco

The whole hour ride to the conference Marco reflected on the fact that he'd be deported if he didn't play his part. It was nerve wrecking. Would he say something to get any of them in trouble? He didn't want to say something about Haru killing someone, he didn't want her in trouble. Who knew what they would ask? The whole thing had him incredibly nervous.

Like everyone else Marco was dressed nicely. He wore a white button down shirt paired with a red bow tie, black pants, and black dress shoes. His longish dark hair was pushed back out of his face. As they made their way to the food court he found himself looking all around them. Everyone was divided in their own circles; it was clear the world was divided and not in a good way. So many people looked angry. Cops stood everywhere though and he supposed there were even some undercover agents. There had to be. Thankfully this was to be a peaceful summit.

Marco got a coffee and leaned against the counter next to Lo. "I brought books, sudoku, word searches, you name it. Politics are not my thing, I'm only here because Canada didn't give us an option." He grinned playfully down at Lo as he took his coffee from the barista. "Grazi." He took a long look around but found his brows furrowing as Haru moved away from the group. "Haru-" Marco stumbled over his words when he noticed who she was moving to. "Slade? He was dead in a ditch before we got dragged onto the boats..." He rubbed his eyes slightly before looking over at Lo. "Wanna go say hi with me?" He gave her a smile before taking her hand and walking towards Callie and Slade.

"It's refreshing to see the two of you in one piece. Who would of thought that you would have her?" He couldn't help but chuckle and take a drink of his coffee.

 

[Sir Damien]

Gillian

The promise Gillian had made Ava was more difficult to keep with his world crumbling around him. He returned home to find his mother distraught and his father furious. Zhao was angry that anyone would take his fiance. Gillian went on a war path to find her. He ordered all troops to stop expanding the states and focus their time on searching for his sister. Gillian's first place he looked was the casino they had stayed at. He prayed she was there; unfortunately he found nothing but pillows, blankets, and an old book. Ava ran a tea shop and she was wiccan. The book looked foreign and important. He took it home with him and kept it safe and hidden in his room.

The next month was spent searching day and night. Sometimes during the day he would try and focus on Canada and a meeting with them, but most of the time it was too difficult to do. Soon enough other countries were converting to their ways. Between traveling to the new countries to train soldiers and searching for his sister peace treaties weren't top priority anymore. He slept two hours a night most nights. Sleep deprivation, anger, heartbreak, and an overwhelming job had Gillian stretched thin. He had no one to confide in anymore with his sister gone, no one to protect. He felt numb.

His father informed him of the summit meeting and Gillian insisted on coming with. Gillian failed Callie, he didn't want to fail Ava either. So, here they were, stepping out of the SUV chauffeured by his uncle in front of the summit. People started to whisper and stare as they walked into the building but that was something they anticipated. Several assistants ran to Gillian and Sullivan and started to go on and on about the days events. They were told that, due to their status, they would be sectioned away from the others most of the time other than the time spent in meetings. "I'll meet you gentlemen in our room in a few moments, I'm going to go get a coffee and look around.

Gillian excused himself and walked towards the food court. He wore a fitted pressed black suit with a silky forest green tie. His hair was gelled in place, everything was perfect and put together on the man. Too bad he was one inconvenience away from snapping. A month without his sister, it was unbearable. He was a failure.

His heart nearly stopped as he entered the food court. His eyes immediately landed on a familiar blonde girl and he couldn't help but smile. "Callie?" It was her. Same height, same hair. He jogged over closer to her and seen a familiar face. Gillian froze and his face went red. "Slade? It was you? You kidnapped my sister?" His eyes darted between the two of them and his fists clenched. It was a peaceful conference, strangling Slade probably wouldn't be perceived well but at this point? Fuck it.

 

[EclipseRosee]

Ava

Ava stood and sipped at her coffee before finally grabbing her bagel from the barista with a small thank you. "What are you guys all talking about now?" She turned to the group once more to find that all of the others had left her standing alone and had created a small group a few feet away from where they had just gotten their drinks. She let out a small huff and began to walk over to them, shoving a bite of the bagel into her mouth as she did. It wasn't until she was over there with a mouth half full of food that she let out a small squeak. "Slade? CALLIE?" She choked down the food before continuing, "Gill?" How the hell did everyone end up here at the same time. Part of the old Ava woke up and reminded her new self that she had KNOWN they were all brought together for a reason and hell... it just kept happening.

The short girl placed her breakfast down on the table near their side and stepped in between the two tall men with a scowl. Her back was facing Slade and Callie, poor Gill getting her full face of annoyance. "Will you act right?" Ava tossed her head gently in the direction of the people staring, Callie was already a walking new story but with Gillian getting loud and visibly angry he was also forcing the attention of many of the guards and police here. "Let's all just sit and talk okay? You can see Callie is physically fine so chill out big guy."

Ava moved from between them and smiled gently to the people staring before placing a firm hand on Gill's shoulder and forcing him into one of the chairs before turning to Callie with a wide grin, "I just knew you had to be okay! I'm so glad to know you were with someone safe. And Slade, I'm glad to see you're alive and kicking!" This Ava was a whole other person than the girl the two of them had left at the docks. Ava used to be timid and shy, now she was confident and prepared.

 

[KAYDEN]

Drake

Honestly, Drake wasn't sure how much he would have to offer at this conference thing. He shared a little about his story but refused to give up any information about his family or his time spent after they were all caught. Drake had learned his lesson the first time he was beaten and left for dead, these people weren't fucking around. When Drake opened his trap in the past it was him who suffered but now he had gotten away from it all, if they couldn't reach him he knew the next person who would face Sullivan's wrath was his mother and he couldn't chance that. The others? He would be here to support them. That was it.

"That sounds fucking perfect. Hell, we could probably track down some asshole with a flask and spike our coffee. God knows theres at least someone here with one." Drake chuckled and smirked at Haru as she grabbed his arm. He reached out and grabbed his own coffee just as Haru exclaimed something about Slade and Callie. "What are you holding out on me sweetheart? Already tracked down the booz- Oh my god you're right it is them." He had tried to joke but when his line of sight followed Haru's he saw that she was indeed right. Wasn't Callie supposedly kidnapped by some viscous rebels or something? Clearly Slade was a big dude but jesus he was like a park ranger or some shit not a war lord.

After a moment of astonishment, Drake finally followed behind Haru, pushing his long black hair out of his face before smirking over at the pair. "Well looky here, Yogi Bear found himself a picnic basket." Even Drake had to grimace at that one. Soon enough more noise was being added as Gillian walked up to the group with a red face. Drake raised an eyebrow and bent down into Haru's ear with a chuckle, "This ought to be good." However their fun was soon stopped when tiny little Ava stepped in with a face full of fury. Boo.

Drake tossed an arm around Haru's shoulder's and pulled her close into his side before leaning down again to whisper more idiotic bullshit. "So I'm placing bets on Callie ran off with big bad Slade and they're going to have a rebellion love child. What's your bet?"

 

[ZombieBaee]

Lo

Lo couldn't help but smile back at Marco despite their nerve wrecking surroundings, it actually made her giggle to imagine their little group all sitting back playing madlibs while people discussed the literal future of the world and Ava scowled at them all from her seat up front. However that smile fell when Marco mentioned not being given a choice about coming here... it made her think of something she had been dying to ask him but Lo couldn't even begin to understand why Marco wouldn't go home now. Like-he could right? Leave all this bullshit and go back. Plus from what they knew Italy was safe... so why stay here right next to the biggest threat to their current lifestyle.

"Hey Marco- Wait what?" Lo was finally going to ask him about it when she finally tuned back into the world around her. "Slade? Where?" Lo turned quickly around and her eyes fell on not only Slade but also Callie and her smile returned. "Of course I do!" Lo nearly squealed and gave Marco's hand a squeeze before following him over to the group.

Lo simply sat back with a bit of a grin as everyone spoke and fought, rolling her eyes as Gill went red in the face. One look at Callie could tell that she wasn't with Slade by force. They were HOLDING HANDS not in handcuffs. But of course this idiot wouldn't see. "Oh Ava let him grumble, he's just pissy his sister had the balls to do what he couldn't."

 

[ZombieBaee]

Slade

Slade went the color of cherries in the face when Callie mentioned falling for him, but it was paired with a slight frown at the fact that that was supposedly the nicest thing anyone had ever said to her. He didn't even think he was being that nice! Just honest! The thought made him sad and angry which were a confusing combination with the current embarrassment that was taking over his heart. "R-Right. Careful."

As the two made their way inside, Slade could already hear the rumors starting. Some believed Callie was a vision of a revolution, someone who broke away from the system and was a leader of the rebellion which wasn't entirely wrong but just a bit romanticized. However, the other rumors are what made him roll his eyes and smirk, Slade was evil, stole her from her wedding day, hurt her brother and fiance, stole her for his own wife. What a crock of bullshit. First Slade was a big guy but one talk would make you aware that he was SO emotionally disconnected there was NO way that was going to be possible. Plus it wasn't a fucking movie? Villians don't steal the pretty girl away and tie her on train tracks unless its a fucking cartoon.

"About an hour or so, wanted to give everyone time to settle I guess. It already seems pretty tense in here and all we've done is arrive..." Slade looked around the food court and was met with hundreds of curious eyes. Vultures. Before he could respond to getting a drink he was met with a set of familiar eyes that were heading towards him, then more and more. "Callie look." Slade squeezed Callie's hand gently and pointed in the direction Haru and the others were making their way from. Slade had no clue that they had all made there way to Canada let alone this conference.

"You guys as well. Sorry for the scare way back there but... hell even I didn't think I was making it out of there I guess." Slade pushed a hand through his wavy brown locks and gave them all a sheepish grin just as he heard Gillian's voice near him. Oh this wasn't going to be good. Slade's good mood fell as he ran his dark eyes over the already maddening man. "What are you talking about? Why don't you just try TALKING to your sister rather than jumping to bullshit ideas." Slade was ready to go all guard dog before Ava stepped in and he looked down at her with a raised eyebrow. When did she become not stuttery?

"Here Callie..." Slade turned around and gave her a gentle smile before pulling the chair out for her that sat across from Gillian.

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Callie

Callie found her nerves eating her from the inside out. Thankfully her whole life had seemingly prepped her for this. In both the New States, the rebellion community, and her old life Callie found people talked about her. People were either jealous, scared, or most of the time hated her. Slade was her only friend. So it wasn’t the gossip that was the nerve wrecking part, it was the fact that she’d soon be face to face with her family. Callie was unfortunately considered property in the New States. Slade stole an important piece of property. Yes he liberated her and rescued her but everything had a price. Would Callie have to go back with her father and Gillian? The question weighed heavy on her.

“Here hydrate yourself, it’s going to be a long d-“ her long lashes bat curiously as he squeezed her hand. “Huh?” Look at what? Her bright green eyes followed to where he pointed and her face lit up happily. “You guys got out! Ava you’re safe? Oh thank God.” Her eyes welled with tears as the others approached them. For months she had believed Slade and Ava were dead. She had felt guilty for so long; if they had never met Callie or Gillian none of this would have happened. Well, it would have, but she blamed herself for them getting caught. It suddenly felt like a huge burden was lifted from her shoulders.

Soon a familiar face was joining the group, only this face didn't seem very happy. “Gillie calm down don’t make a scene-and don’t go accusing anyone of kidnapping me! Slade’s the only one who has ever asked or cared what I wanted.” Her eyes narrowed at her tall older brother. Before things could escalate further Ava surprisingly came to the rescue. Wasn’t she the shy girl that ran the tea shop? She was bossing Gillian around like she wasn’t afraid of him! Her eyes widened slightly as she processed what was happening. Something must have happened to the two of them, Gillian must have saved her. Did he help all of the group?

“Thank you Ava. Everyone’s right Gillie, I’ve been taken care of and looked after.” Slade pulled out the chair across from Gillian and Callie flashed him a sweet smile. “Thank you Slade.” She gave his hand a small squeeze before handing him the water she grabbed for him. "Here." Callie sat in the chair and smiled across to her brother. “I’m taken care of and no one hurts me. No one bosses me around, no one treats me like my only contribution to society is to get married and have babies. I want to help people. I didn't want to be shipped to China, I don't think dad's society is the future. It's inhumane and so many people get hurt. You understand, right?" She took a deep, long inhale to catch her breath and to calm her anxiously beating heart. "I know it goes against everything we were raised to believe but I can't spend one more minute going along with his charade."

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Haru

There was another emotion that Haru had been feeling towards Drake but she couldn't quite place it. It made her heart skip beats or beat faster and her cheeks heat, Haru thought it was something that was wrong with her heart. Whatever was wrong with her made her smile and shake her head at Drake's poor attempt at a joke. "Babe it's a good thing you're so cute, I don't think any girl is going to encourage your terrible dad jokes." Haru smirked up at him as she leaned against him slightly. This day was proving not to be boring, not at the angry Gillian or the rise of security guards and cops surrounding the small group. "He sat down, chill out."

Before she could say anything too snarky at the group it felt as if her heart would beat from her chest. Drake was pulling her to him and his arm was around her. What was wrong with her? It was something with her because this was something normal for them to do. Chill, Haru. The summit just had her on edge. Her arm wrapped around his waist. "Oh no, not those two. Callie is a super religious girl and Slade wouldn't know romance if it slapped him in the face. They're both the most awkward souls in the world, they're going to die friendzoned with each other." Though, she had to admit to herself that they looked absolutely adorable together. It made her want to vomit.

As Callie spoke Haru found herself looking around the room. She was extra anxious today and she would be looking over their shoulders constantly. It didn't help that all eyes were turned to them; people weren't even hiding the fact that they were eavesdropping or staring. "You mind if I stick with you for the day? This place gives me the creeps." Haru whispered up to Drake before taking a small drink of her hot coffee.

 

[Sir Damien]

Gillian

This was it. This was the day Gillian finally lost his shit. "Don't any of you fucking touch me, I haven't touched the bastard yet." Gillian glared around the room at the police and guards around them. He could take each and every one of them out within minutes, but that wasn't what he was here for. It served him no purpose...not yet anyway. "Will you get out of my-" Ava stepped in front of him and he found himself even more irritable. When did she get here? Oh. The meeting. Right. His blue eyes glanced down at the scar on her leg and he found himself forcing down his anger with the heavy guilt he felt. "Yeah yeah yeah. Sit. Got it." He groaned and grumbled when the small female forced him into the chair. He smoothed out his hair before straightening his tie and leaning back. "Don't encourage her Ava, she has some explaining to do." He shot Ava a small glare before focusing his glare back on his sister. Why in the world would she defend this fucker?

As she spoke he found himself more and more irritated. "We could have discussed this over dinner at home a month ago, you had to have a tantrum and run away from home to say something?" Gillian let out a frustrated groan and he made a fist underneath the table. He knew he shouldn't have left Zhao alone with Callie but his father insisted it was fine. He blamed himself for not seeing the signs. "I'm sorry, Callie. I should have protected you better and that's my bad. But seriously? This fucking guy?" Gillian sighed loudly and shook his head. "Glad to see you're alive Slade but I would have preferred you not have taken my sister. I don't know what you had to prove but I sure as hell don't appreciate it it."

A tall man with jet black hair walked into the food court along with a few others of his entourage. Several people started to whisper as the man made his way over to the group. Gillian let out a small sigh as he stood from his seat and straightened out the suit. "Callie my dear, it warms my heart to see you in one piece. You've had our nation in a state of distress. How we will rejoice when you return to us." Piercing blue eyes glanced over at Slade and gave a small chuckle. "Well I'll see to it your war crime of kidnapping my daughter is addressed at a meeting this week. Enjoy your freedom while it lasts my son, I'll be taking you and Callie home after the week is done. We'll see to it you get what you deserve. Gillian? I'll meet you in the summit. Say goodbye to your sister."

With that said and done Sullivan made his way through the exit of the food court. His entourage followed him save for Zhao. "I'll see you soon Callie." He shot her a small glare before following after Sullivan.