Realistic or Modern x A Fight for Survival x- Zombies Bite (IC)

[Misty Gray]

Beth Jefferson / Michael Wilson / Lottie Reynolds

​

Beth's day had gone by relatively smoothly. Other than one of the scouts who managed to rip the skin on his calf open and required stitches. It was a messy job, but it was nothing she wasn't used to by now. After stitching the man's messed up leg, it only left time for her to worry about Theodore, but she kept any sign of that behind a neutral, cold expression. She figured Rosemary would have enough on her mind, so the best she could do was present herself as an objective party.

Beth had already taken a spot around the table before Rosemary arrived. She sat next to Carter, taking note of the empty spot on the marksman's other side where Theodore would usually be sitting. She didn't like it one bit that he wasn't present and hoped he would be back tomorrow, as promised by the mysterious Northerners.

Lottie had spent the day doing what she did best, scavenging for useful items and keeping an eye on the goings on around her. She liked to know what was going on, even if she didn't get to do much about it. She was also concerned about Teddy, so was eager to know what was going on and when he would be back. She'd spent much of the afternoon sat on the roof of an old car as she sharpened some of the knives for the others. She could just about remember when she used to play with dolls, which stopped around about the same time she watched her parents being ripped to shreds by stupid zombies. Now, she had far more interesting things to do and the only toys she played with were sharp or fired bullets.

As she watched people flocking into the Taurus Council Hall, Lottie decided to head in there too and listen to what the adults were planning. Right by the entrance, she saw Michael stood watching those entering the building. He held his hand out to stop Lottie from passing him. "Sorry, there's a height restriction. No midgets allowed in the grown-up meetings," he teased her.

"I take it there's also a minimum IQ rule? And that's why you're still outside?" the kid fired back. "Out of the way, jerk!" She ducked under his arm and rushed into the hall with the crowd, pushing her way closer to the table so she could watch was was going on. Michael simply laughed, taking enjoyment from the girl's argumentative nature. He wasn't sure who she reminded him of!


Michael had been told to get a few hours sleep, having stayed on patrol throughout the night. He demanded to be woken if anything happened or there was any news on his missing comrade. He managed about three hours rest before getting back out and about. He didn't like leaving the others with reduced numbers, figuring Rosemary needed as many people around as possible during the tense situation. He once again patrolled the border during the afternoon, keeping eyes and ears open for any potential developments. Once again, he used the time to practice his knife-throwing accuracy.

As the evening approached, Michael waited by the entrance of the Council Hall, watching the others enter the building, until he saw Rosemary approaching. He then decided to get to the table and take his seat ready for her to address everyone. With Jade on one side of their leader, Michael sat to Rosemary's other side. He listened as the woman because filling everyone in on what had transpired. He pulled a dismissive expression as there was mention of civilisation in the North. The East only just managed to get sense out of the Hillbillies in the West, so he dreaded to think was kind of feral weirdos were residing in the snow.

"Legolas Junior suggested there's some form of a civilised city in the North," Michael observed. "I'm just curious as to why they returned the kid yet took Teddy and Bexley. I'd like to think they're just having a few drinks with the Northerners and sharing tales of their residences. But I'm not sure if I believe any of that. How many people here actually believe those two will be returned and unharmed tomorrow? I've met too many arseholes and twisted fuckers lately not to be suspicious of any outsiders. Especially ones who we've heard nothing from until now." Michael wasn't the best at making plans and strategies, but he was damn good at acting upon instructions. If they wanted him to get out there and take action, he would. If they wanted him to sit back and do some more talky talk, he'd do that too. Though the former would be more enjoyable. "What do you think the West are doing about this right now?" he curiously asked the others.

Rhaine Troldmand slim

 

[Rhaine]

Theodore "Teddy" Ashworth
with: Bexley Bellz , Rhett ReverseTex , Violette deer , Ajan slim
mentions: Mick/Beth/Lottie Misty Gray , Jade slim
location: Khal's War Room
​

Teddy was surprised at how quickly and easily the meeting had proceeded. All things under Rhett's control seemed to go smoothly and effortlessly. With a few succinct words, everything was brought to a resolution. He thought it was an agreeable enough plan, though he wondered what the response of the East and the West would truly be once the representatives of Khal arrived. He could only imagine the chaos that was stirring, at least in the West, with their leader gone. He knew Rosemary would be keeping some semblance of calm among his more easy-going brethren. She had a way of doing so in times of crisis - he had witnessed it himself.

He hadn't known what he had expected, but what had transpired hadn't been what he had vaguely imagined. Teddy had thought it might have proceeded more as an interrogation - or perhaps that someone would pull the rug out from under them and declare them hostages officially, yelling something along the lines of, "just kidding," as they did. It might have just been the threats of the Doctor still lingering in him, though he supposed he shouldn't have payed it too much a mind, the moment cleared up by Lee's straight-forward dismissal. Lee had proven to be pretty alright in Teddy's book, and he would rather use Lee as a representative in his head for the common people of the North than the Doctor.

Rhett had all but dismissed them, informing them that they were free to do as they pleased. Teddy gave a final nod of gratitude, a bit of his apprehension still in his expression as he glanced at Bexley, though it was lost entirely as he made his way from the main war room, winding further back towards where he had entered. He stilled in his long stride however, reaching up and resting his hand on the smooth wood of a pew. It was cold, but not uninviting. He glanced up at the ceiling again, his eyes trailing down and catching on a scene in a stained glass window. He swallowed, unsure of what he knew he was about to do, but not enough to turn and walk out.

Teddy sat down, and the wood creaked a bit beneath him. He sank down in a position that felt familiar, slightly hunched over, his elbows on his knees, and his hands clasped together against his brow. Whenever he had seen his mother do the same, her shiny prayer beads had always been clasped between her hands. He didn't have such things, and he didn't know if they were required - if there were certain things one had to do in order to pray correctly, but he was willing to give it a shot.

He was uncomfortable in the silence, not knowing how to proceed. He mirrored his memory of his mom in his mind, letting his eyes slip closed.

Teddy squirmed, beginning to speak in a low, quiet, mumble.

"Um... Hey...God. It's me, Teddy.... Ashworth?" He paused. "You probably... don't want to talk to me- I mean, if you're not dead or whatever." He internally groaned at himself. He was about to exasperatedly sit up and be on his way, but he stayed none the less.

"I guess... just.. keep the East safe, West too - Ian, Andrew, Danny, Robbie, and Mom. And Mick. And Rosemary. Jade. Beth. Lottie. Can I ask for that many people?"

What did he mean to ask for in the first place? He recalled an old film he had watched when he was a kid, and the thought that arose almost made him want to laugh. "For Rosemary, a heart that works like it should, or maybe some courage too, for Bex to make it home, for me a brain." His smile endured only a moment more.

"Maybe... forgiveness too. Maybe that's what I mean. I don't know." The cathedral felt colder.

"Yeah, um, amen."

His eyes opened and his hands fell but he didn't move just yet. Teddy sat a while longer, feeling small sitting there among the pews, though in reality he was a bit too large for comfort.

 

[Bellz]

Atticus Withers​

with: Lee ReverseTex mentions: Rhaine none. location: Home ​

Lee told him not to trouble himself with getting him coffee and Atticus gave a quick nod in response before moving his way to sit at the table. The little bits and pieces of hardware he had been tinkering with earlier sat there, as he had been busying himself with creating something all morning. Once sat at the table, the boy placed his hands on his current project and looked it over. It only held his attention for a split second before Lee sat beside him and looked down at the boy, speaking of the strange southerners and how Atticus must have been curious.

Atticus was curious and his eyes brightened at the thought of someone finally being able to tell him what the heck was going on. Atticus loved his father very much and respected every wish he had for him, but Atticus was growing older and he felt he had been far too sheltered from the rest of the world compared to most kids. Like Wendy, the girl could look a skin crawler in the eye and tell it to stop being such a meanie...while Atticus would only cower in fear and beg for his life. The girl had been raised all her life in the lower parts of Khal, the less modernized division of it to be exact. She didn't have a lot of the nice things he had, but it seemed that she didn't let that stop her. Atticus envied the freedom the girl had in a sense, but knew once again, Be grateful for what you do have. He reminded himself.

Lee went on to explain that the Southerners were disappointingly like themselves. Atticus listened with wide eyed curiosity as he continued on telling him more and more about the southerners. Bex and Teddy? Atticus' mind was immediately drawn back to his room where his teddy bear was sitting and waiting for him on the shelf if he ever needed any comfort. The names tugged on something in his mind, though what exactly...he wasn't sure. He briefly wondered if this Teddy was like a bear? Did anyone call him Teddy Bear? Did he hate it if they did? The boys mind fired question after question, though some might not even be worth answering.

Atticus' mouth hung open slightly as he spoke of there being no snow and the sun was always shining. Atticus remembered the sun...or at least what he thought had been the sun. The way the warmth just spread across the skin, bathing him in a blanket of light. Or maybe...he hadn't actually felt it at all...maybe it was just all a dream. "Two factions?" He wondered out loud at the scouts words as his brows knitted together. To Atticus, this was troubling in a way. If there were two factions, that meant that was one more than they had. Atticus worried for his father in those moments wondering if they were to go to war with these beings...if they didn't appear to be diplomatic like Khal...what would become of them all. "Were they nice?"

 

[Bellz]

Bexley Withers​

with: Teddy + Rosemary Rhaine ReverseTex mentions: location:War Room ​

Bexley was pleased at the words that came from Teddy's lips, though the glances were more than shattering what thin glass wall she had left surrounding her. Rosemary definitely needed to be informed of such deals, for unfortunately, she had control of the East. The soft spoken girl, at least Bexley felt, had no business being a leader of an apocalyptic faction. She just didn't have enough....grit. Not enough bark in her bite....Or squawk in her peck. Her mind quickly jumped into make a humorous similarity with the familiar phrase. With all done, Rhett looked to what seemed to be his second in command to fetch Lee, the sassy ass abominable snow man that had saved her from a deadly fall and was now baby sitting them. He had conversed with them the night before and it had been pleasant enough. Though she caught the way he said, "ye," instead of "you," and she almost cringed every time, not being one for that medieval language crap...this wasn't a Renaissance Fair, it was the fucking end of the world for Christ sakes.
Oh yea...you're the one to talk Cowgirl,
With a pleasant turn of events, Bexley was surprised to find she wouldn't have to continue the diplomatic act that she had been trying so hard to perfect. The man was pleased with her words and he made note of where the locations were. Bexley looked down at the map and wondered if she had just made a mistake giving away their positions. After a few moments, she ruled it a silly thought because the North wouldn't have to look very hard to see whether a place was filled with people or not, the lack of snow making their home visible...so the East and the Wests were practically out in the open as it is. Bexley had agreed that it wouldn't have been fair for Rhett to pressure them into some deal that they and when he dismissed them to do as they wished until they were returned home, she watched as Teddy nodded her direction before promptly making his way towards the nearest exit.

She didn't look back to watch him as she sat in her chair a few moments longer, a little bewildered at why he left so quickly. Standing, she said nothing more to the "Wolf" as she made her way back towards the exit of the cathedral as well, her head bowed slightly as she was in deep thought. Her mind wandered again and she had basically gone to the exit of the cathedral when she noticed Teddy was not in front of her any longer. Turning around in confusion, she found the man sitting in the pew. Looking almost comically large in it as he kept his head bowed low and his back hunched over. Bexley wondered what was wrong and concern painted her features for a moment before she delicately tip toed to sit in the pew behind him.

She had no business comforting him, she knew this...but at this moment, they both couldn't afford to appear weak...or easily manipulated. Bexley watched for a few moments and all was silent. She was just about to speak, parting her lips gently...when she could barely hear his words. The woman stayed incredibly still and silent as he mumbled to the man who supposedly lived in the heavens. It was hard to tell exactly what was going through the bearded man's mind, for his tone was to soft to express anything. Bexley heard him finish his prayed, and she stayed still behind him as he moved and sat up a bit. She waited...watching to see if he would stand. He hadn't.

Slowly, the young woman stood and moved her way to come to sit beside him, her eyes looking forward at the stained glass mosaics depicting the bible events, her eyes spotted the face of God...and she spoke. "That's a pretty tall order Theodore." She murmured to him, her eyes continuing to stare ahead, her face not revealing much. "You realize no one is there to answer this right?" She asked after a few beats of silence. Bexley had forgotten god long ago and had never looked back since. Religion was a terror in itself and before the world fell victim to the "Wonder Bug," it had been the number 1 reason for mass death.

 

[Troldmand]

Mentions: Rhaine and
Misty Gray

Brandon Eastern

Although the tensions were growing between the two factions near the Wall, Brandy hadn't pulled the trigger a single time before heading back to the headquarters of the East -- the Taurus. With the sniper rifle on his shoulder and his circular glasses adjusted, he had strolled along the road littered with corroding vehicles of the past. He would take a drag, blow the smoke out and repeat the process until there was nothing to smoke. The recent happenings may have been stressful, but at least he's had the pleasure of blowing the emotions away with tobacco. Now that the conflict had subsided, he only needed to worry about arriving at the meeting as soon as possible -- the meeting that was being held in the Council Hall.

Unfortunately for the lonesome sniper, the meeting had already begun by the time he arrived at the Taurus. Brandy navigated through the decaying streets with ease, soon finding himself in the warehouse filled to the brim with people from all ends of the fairly vast territories under Eastern control. He struggled out of the talkative crowd, claiming a decent spot near the notorious rounded table that allowed him to see the two speakers -- Rosemary and Michael. He had listened to everything they had to say before facing the crowd and announcing his own stance on the whole matter.

"I wouldn't go out there like that. Those folks already did that and look where we are now," he adjusted his glasses. "We have to be smart, folks. We have to keep in mind that the Westerners ain't unaware either. Just one wrong step is enough to provoke the opposite side. A few minutes later, we shoot each other instead of saving the fellas," he sighed. "Welcome to America, land of the free!" he looked at Rosemary. "If we venture there, we gotta do it on our own. Some time ago I was sitting on the roof and waiting for a command to snipe people. They ain't gonna agree with us so easily," he pondered for a moment. "But if there is no other choice, 'cause I've got no idea what lurks out there, we do not welcome the entire West."

 

[ReverseTex]

Lee Danvers

Interactions/Mentions:
deer
Bellz

Lee nodded, amused by the boys interest in the logistics of it all. “Yeah two. East and West. The lady we got, she’s the leader of the west, while the eastern dude is merely a grunt of sorts.” Finishing off his coffee, he continued. “Yeah they aren’t bad folk, the woman has lip, the guy a bit more quiet. But not mean.”

A knock at the door drew his attention away from the boy, quickly reaching for his pistol, out of habit. Realizing a skin crawler didn’t have a brain capacity to knock, he released his gun as he made his way to the door. Opening it, a boy probably a few years older than Atticus stood. “Mr. Lee? The Wolf sent me. Says you’re to go on a trip over the wall with Violette! Gather whatever you need, and be ready in a hour.” Nodding the boy away, he hurried back to the table to gather his things. “Stay in city. Seeing as ye’ father hasn’t sent anyone else to watch you, and seeing as i’m not gonna coddle you, just... Don’t get in the way up-top got it? Good.” He shut the door behind him, not wanting to be a babysitter any longer. Thank god he wasn’t a woman.

A few minutes later he was atop, the winds not as bad as yesterday, nor the snow. Deciding it best that he stayed indoors, he made his way to the War Room. He avoided the main part, where Rhett usually spent his time, and decided to explore the abandoned confession area. Spotting the two southerners, he slowly walked up. “Sorry to interrupt, but God is dead folks.” Deciding not to sit down, he made his way in front of the two, crossing his arms.

Studying Teddy’s eyes, a odd sense of familiarity behind them, as well as Bexley’s hair. “Guessing ye’ heard the news, but i’m to accompany you folk back over the wall. Get to see what you cowboys and tree-huggers are up to, which I think will be quite similar to us.” Pausing for a moment, he turned his attention to Bexley with a blink. “Wait... So do ye’ people actually wear the hats and stuff? If so that’s some serious bullshit ye’ got your folks participating in...”

 

[r e i]

Kyle Withers

[mood] scared [tags] Bellz KingofAesir [location] at the wall [mentions] Bexley Bellz Ava KingofAesir

A forest, and laughter. Two people. A woman and male laughing and playing around with a 2-year-old boy. The boy was smiling happily, and laughing along with them. Then the scene changed, the boy was crying. The two adults were looking at him like food. They go after him. He screams as their body falls, from a gunshot to the head. A woman picks up the little boy. And...

Kyle wakes ups from nightmare breathing heavily. He looked around, barely recognizing where he was at. All he wanted was his mum, who he usually went to when he had that nightmare. It's not until he saw Ava, he realized what had happened. His mum was gone, somewhere that he couldn't get. He could try but, he thinks to look at his ankle which was wrapped up. He wouldn't make it far. He looked to the side to see Ava on watch. He rises up from his place and limps to her.

It was silent for a moment when he decided to speak. His voice horsed from today events. "You know, I don't remember my birth parents faces. Or their names but I do remember Mum saving me. Ever since then, I wouldn't leave her side. Even when grandpa tried to take me in as his son. I wouldn't leave her side. To me, my savior was my mum. " He looked down at his feet and chokes at his words "W-w-when we lost him and Atticus. It was like I lost her too. It took everything for me to get her back. To get back to me. Back then, I promised myself and whoever is listening. That I would never let her get back to that, that I wouldn't leave her."

He saw what getting attached did to her, to everyone. He never wanted it to happen to him but it was inevitable. Kyle became attached to her, Ava, and everyone he knew in the west. He couldn't let anything happened to them. Or it would break him instead. With Bex, it was worse. Way worse. If he lost her, he would go and murder anyone on his way to get his revenge. He wouldn't be alright even if he got it. "I broke that promise, Ava. And I don't know if I ever gonna see her again. Or that I get to feel her warmth or her slaps again. Or tell her I love her. Ava...I can't stop thinking if I would ever do those things again. "

Kyle looked at the wall. He stared hard at it. If he stared hard at that wall, his mom would be flying back over here. Back to him, back to how it was. Even he knew those stares would do nothing or work. Nothing would be the same, now that they knew of the north. And what they could do.

"You never know when you're gonna lose someone. You never know who you never gonna meet."

 

[Rhaine]

Rosemary Borden
Theodore "Teddy" Ashworth
with: Bexley Bellz , Lee ReverseTex , Violette deer , Ajan/Jade slim , Michael/Beth/Lottie Misty Gray , Carter Enzyme , Brandy Troldmand
location: Khal's War Room (teddy) , Taurus Council Hall (rosemary)
​

Rosemary was thankful when Michael, who sat at her side, was the first to speak. She had hoped he would. She had always found him to be a fair judge of the situation at hand. Often, his strong manner of speaking was all the better for these discussions, especially when the situation was as uncertain as their's was now. He was practical beneath the gusto, and she knew that he was deeply rooted in the state and welfare of their people, just as she was. He could reflect the common man, speak with their voices.

Her periwinkle blue eyes rested on him as he spoke, nodding here and there when he brought up a point she thought was significant. She took a strand of her blonde hair between her fingertips, obviously in thought as she absently wound the curl about her index finger. Brandy was the next to chime in, and she absorbed his points as well before speaking, giving a small shake of her head.

"The West is leaderless now, no doubt falling back to their delegated strengths, awaiting Bexley's spoken of return. It would surprise me greatly if their focus was even remotely pointed towards us. You're right, Brandy, we do have to be smart, but in what way can we proceed?"

Her eyes returned to Michael, intrigue caught in her gaze, her voice engaged and curious. "Mick, do you mean that you think the child may have been mistaken? You doubt the existence of a true civilization beyond the wall? It is the first any of us are hearing of such a thing. We have never received a message or a representative. We cannot know for sure where the people the child saw up there are from, and we can't know their numbers, not even to what degree they are civilized, save for in the appearance of the contraption that sent the child back home. They may have sent the child back because they are of good moral conscience, and they may have sent him home because he was of no use to them."

She sat back, briefly biting her lip, her mind spinning through every possibility as she waited for others to respond with their thoughts.

After a moment she spoke again. She was a thing to behold when she became truly engaged in a discussion. True, her voice never raised and her countenance remained smooth and fine, but there was passion that lit in her eyes, and her form seemed to be given real shape. She was not a passive leader. She wasn't one who could be taken advantage of easily, and it was in these moments that those in the East, those that were privy to it, could see.

"Consider," she began, "that Teddy returns over the wall in a day's time. Suppose he comes with tidings of the North, a message, a representative, or even simply an account of his experience with what lay beyond. Are we, as a people, prepared to accept these tidings? I think we must consider the implications of this incident in terms of the far future. The people of the North, no matter what happens in the next few days, will be a part of our lives now in one way or another. We are not ignorant of this now. There is no going back. Teddy may never return. The Leader of the West may never return. I think we have to consider each scenario carefully. What are we willing to do? What will we accept?"

/

Teddy didn't notice at first when Bexley sat down beside him. He was lost in a jilted reverie, still slouched over slightly, his eyes tracing the wood grain on the pew before him. It was only when she spoke that he realized she was there. He immediately sat up straight as a needle, his widened eyes finding her for a moment of recognition before he gave something like a chuckle, burying his face in his calloused hands. The tips of his ears had gone pink. He wondered if she had heard his prayer. He wondered if that would be a bad thing or not. She was already plenty aware of his foolishness. Just another addition to an already well established rule.

He ran his hands down his face in a good-natured exasperated manner, beginning to speak.

"Theodore, Theodore, Theodore. I had all but forgotten that was my name until you sauntered back into the picture."

It was a pleasant jibe, though it left him a bit colder than he had been before.

His arms fell to his side, his eyes finding her face, allowing himself to study her features for as long as he dared. She was staring straight ahead, and he gave only a glance to what she was looking at, before his gaze fell to his hands in his lap.

Her words made him smile sheepishly for a moment, giving a shrug of his broad shoulders. "I don't know, you're here, aren't you?" His tone didn't quite match his smile.

He didn't look up at her. He couldn't seem to. The silence felt full.

Teddy heard Lee approach, and he watched the Northman come before them. He let out a sound of agreement and acknowledgment. "So I've heard." He glanced at Bexley, a smile just beneath the surface of his face, unable to truly conceal anything. Nothing felt so grim, so uncertain anymore, at least when it came to the situation with the North. They were aiming for beneficial relations, if Rhett had spoken true. Teddy saw no downside to that.

With Lee's pointed question to Bexley regarding the wardrobe of the Westerners, a muffled laugh took Teddy for a moment before he squashed it, not wanting to incur anybody's wrath today, especially Bexley's.

Still, he couldn't help it as the laugh lived on in his eyes.

 

[Bellz]

Bexley Withers​

with: Teddy + Rosemary Rhaine Lee ReverseTex mentions: Kyle @h o n e st p r i n c e location:War Room ​

Bexley's eyes glanced to her right as Teddy seemed to have just noticed she had even sat down. He made a sound...like a relieved chuckle before burying his face in his hands. Bexley took a moment to stare his way as his eyes were covered, noticing the tips of his ears turning pink a small knowing smile formed on her lips, as she was reminded of all the times the man had blushed at her words in the past...her sharp tongue or powerful words always seeing to make the man tickle pink. She looked a few moments longer before her head snapped back to attention towards the front. Indulging in such things was for hopeless romantics, who knew that one day love might just find a way. Love took a hit and crashed to the earth as far as Bexley was concerned. At one point in time, she had almost successfully gotten him out of her mind...but Jasper had reminding her that what she had been doing was going to give her alcohol poisoning. Getting clean wasn't easy and it made the young woman even more bitter and annoyed that she previously had been after Atticus left. Teddy was the one thought that just couldn't leave her mind. Even when she convinced herself that he must have perished at some point...she could stop thinking about him. What he would have done in a situation she was having a hard time figuring out, how he would have taken everything in stride like Teddy normally tended to do. Then the nights were she wondered if he had moved on after her, found someone to love and hold and never let go...like he did with her. She wanted to feel happiness for the idea of him having settled, but could never get the bitter taste out of her mouth whenever her mind decided to present it.

She heard movement beside her but didn't move to look his way as he spoke. "Theodore, Theodore, Theodore. I had all but forgotten that was my name until you sauntered back into the picture." The phrase itself was playful, but something cold could be heard behind them...clipped and broken she could decode the bitterness he felt about the use of his full name with her. He knew just as well as she did that he wasn't Theodore to her, what was he now? The nickname she had always given him was bubbling to the surface, threatening to make itself known by passing through her lips. Biting her tongue. She said nothing as she continued to stare forward.

When he finally answered her question, Bexley's muscles grew tense and taunt, clearly the words he spoke had much more meaning behind them than he was letting on. She hadn't realized she was holding her breath as her mind scrambled for something to say. I don't know, you're here, aren't you? Her heart raced as for the first time in her life, she was completely stunned into silence by the man next to her. What was he telling her? She was refusing to let her heart dive deeper behind meaning for she knew all there would be is heartbreak...Bex glanced his way again and saw the slightest smile on his lips, though it didn't match the tone he used. Before she could open her mouth to speak, a figure moving to her left caught her attention before it made its way in front of them.

Lee informed Teddy and herself that God was dead. The point Bexley had taken great care in breaking to Teddy delicately, when this man wasted no time just getting right to the point. A wide smile formed on her lips as she stared up at the Northern man, his words on him and another returning with them echoed in her ears. She wasn't sure how everyone else was going to take it. Her concerns never really were with the east, as they were too busy hugging trees and smoking pot to fight about people imposing on their personal lives...but her faction. She was nervous in all honesty, but she knew that the loyalty of her people would help her tremendously. Her thoughts went back to Kyle for a moment and her brows furrowed in concern. He had been so strong compared to her when Atticus disappeared...trying to pick up the piece as she fell apart, gluing them together again with his constant attention and love for her. She worried for him, knowing like her, he had a wicked temper that could spiral out of control. He was safe, and if for some reasons she wouldn't make it back home to say it to him, she hoped he knew that she loved him very much...and that she would always be proud.

Bexley's thoughts snapped out of it as Lee questioned her on western wardrobe to which Teddy bursted into a small laughing fit. Bexley quickly lifted her hand and slapped Teddy's large bicep with her small hand, though not satisfied as the long sleeve clothing prevented her from hearing the satisfying slap! that came with skin to skin contact...perhaps that was a good thing...she had felt on fire when he grabbed her hand the night before. Despite having playfully slapped Teddy, the woman's smile was wide and she herself laughed a bit before answering his question."Well, now that you mentioned it, I feel like there's a pair of boots and a hat with your name on it, partner" Bexley let her voice turn into a thick southern drawl before she shook her head. "I don't require my people to dress like an old Western Mr. Danvers, this is the end of the world not dress up, but sometimes wearing the hats is part of the perk."

Bexley's eyes looked back to Teddy, "Besides, I think you'd rather wear a cowboy hat and some boots instead of having flowers braided in your hair and tie dyed shirts like Teddy Bear here." The nickname she had been holding in made its appearance and it felt so natural coming from her lips, it was like a breath of fresh air. No longer did she have to really think of what she said to him, about how she should stick to his full birth name, he wanted her to call him Teddy again and despite feeling as though she shouldn't curiosity as to see where calling him this would lead her was too tempting to resist.

 

[ReverseTex]

Lee Danvers

Interactions/Mentions:
Bellz
Rhaine

Lee glanced over at Teddy, who saw amusement in his question, although he was quite serious. How could people actually dress like that? I mean at least the heavy furs were practical here, but what did a stupid hat do for survival? Turning to Bexley as she slapped her friend, clearly offended by the chuckling, which only caused him to chuckle.

“I really don’t feel like they have my name, partner.” He shot back, as he leaned against the cool stone wall of the church. Listening to her next explanation of Teddy’s culture, which from the sound was quite pacifist, he simpered. “I think i’m more comfortable in the snow Bex. I mean it’s quite handy, seeing as ye’ blind birds couldn’t see us for seventeen years?” He smirked, raising a eyebrow in amusement.

“Glad to see ye’ ain’t a weakling like I thought ye’ were. Seeing as I saved your life, which I still haven’t gotten a thank-you for...?” He paused for a moment, seeing if her gratitude would come, it didn’t. He couldn’t help a smile as he shrugged. “Hell had to try. But for the most part I think you got a good trip, although you did miss The Pit. Shame really.”

 

[KingofAesir]

Avalon Dalton

In the end, Avalon had decided to stay at the wall with Kyle and let everyone else head back to Jasper at home. She had a very vague idea of how long they'd been atop the wall that she doubted was even close. It was darker, that's all she could tell.

Kyle had fallen asleep some time ago, the occasional mumble or jerk of his body causing her to jerk her head back toward him every so often. Aside from Kyle's noises everything was quiet. Avalon found that geo the first time in a long time she could look up at the stars and actually think.

Somewhere down there Bexley was alone, if you didn't count the idiotic hippie dude who'd practically thrown himself after her, which Avalon didn't. So, Bexley was alone. Avalon's jaw clenched tightly and her nails dug into the hard surface of the wall.

"Should be more careful, honey. Be a shame if a crawler ate your pretty face off. Don't cha think?" A younger Avalon grinned at a similarly younger Bexley and offered a hand, "Avalon. Nice ta make your acquaintance, mi lady."

Avalon shook her head and rubbed at her eyes, old memories where not something she needed right now. The sound of a crawler dragging along below made her shiver. It was a good thing those things couldn't climb.

"Let's start a riot. A riot. Let's start a-" Avlon had began singing one if the only songs she could remember clearly when Kyle woke up. The boy scooted closer to her and started on this long spiel. He must've had a bad dream.

Avalon was silent for a moment before she reached over a flicked his ear and pushed him slightly, "Don't talk like that. We're gonna get 'er back. Hell, I'll go down there myself and do it if I have to." Avalon breathed a sigh,"We're gonna get her back, Ky. Jasper and Andy and me and everyone, we'll get her back." Avalon returned her gaze to the stars and restarted quiet singing.

Kyle r e i

Mentions: Bexley Bellz , Teddy Rhaine , Andy neverbackdown , Jasper deer ​

 

[Rhaine]

Theodore "Teddy" Ashworth
with: Bexley Bellz , Lee ReverseTex
location: Khal's War Room
​

Teddy was simultaneously surprised and not surprised at all as Bexley playfully slapped his arm, a smile and a laugh following. It felt perfectly natural, though it was something like a relic of the past. He was struck by two things instantaneously. One: the young, kind girl he had known wasn't altogether gone. Two: he has missed her so terribly that it had almost consumed him. He was reminded by it then, in a seemingly mundane, innocuous moment that was all but conventional. He recalled the late nights, the loneliness, the regret, the hate. It had never left him, but only now had it become more apparent, pushed to the forefront of his mind for a fleeting moment as he watched her laugh.

There was barely a flicker of anything in his expression, and he was back in the moment, words flying by his head before he could successfully catch up. It was only when Bexley's blue eyes turned to him that he collected himself enough, and as if in a reward, her nickname for him slipped into the open air.

"Besides, I think you'd rather wear some cowboy hats and some boots instead of having flowers braided in your hair and tie-dyed shirts like Teddy Bear here."

He let the two words weigh over his shoulders, just a moment of allowing himself to indulge. It was a fleeting dream dreamt at dawn before he cast it away, reliving the words spoken beforehand. The sun had passed from before his expression and now lay below the surface, his mind turned to other things. He realized who he was sitting beside - The Leader of the West, and the context of such a thing, passing words with one of the Northerners who would act as a representative to negotiate with his people, hit him for a brief moment, before it too sunk away. He was never able to hold on to things very long - almost every thought muddled, the implications of each unclear.

He rolled his eyes at the old Western standby, a smile still resting over his lips.

"Trust me on this, Lee. Bex is just about the last person on Earth you'd wanna consult if you were looking to find out anything true about Easterners." It was a returning jibe, a playful nudge, stamped by a chuckle, though he had meant it in his own way. He had been living in the dark for ten years, but he hadn't been secluded. He knew what the last few years had been like for people in the East, what the people who sat down at that round table in Coucil Hall discussed and strived for. In a dim, vacant, absent part of his mind, he wondered if he was the smallest bit responsible for it - in some cosmic, far-reaching way.

With the Northman's next back-and-forth with Bexley, during which Teddy was unsuccessfully attempting to not overtly stare at her, he rested back against the pew, the wood creaking beneath him once more. His grin faltered a bit as Lee mentioned the pit.

"Hell, everyone wants to talk about this 'Pit' and nobody seems to want to tell us what it is. Is it as ominous as everybody's making it out to be?"

 

[Bellz]

Bexley Withers​

with: Teddy Rhaine Lee ReverseTex mentions: location: War Room ​

Bexley smirked to herself and tried to hide a smile from forming as Teddy nudged her playfully and explained to Lee that she was the last person on earth he should go to for any true information about the Easterners. It was true, the girl held more than a few biases for the people of the East, but she believed Teddy had been mistaken. She had definitely known the people of the east at one point in time, hell she snuck through the tunnels beneath both territories just to get to the other side. The East and West were on neutral terms at that point, however, they still took great care in making sure things stayed separate, making sure no faction got to large. Merging was never an option for the two factions. Originally, there had been a few other smaller factions within the West and East territories, but as tensions rose and alliances were formed, the small groups didn't last very long with such change. Her father had always told her that in times like this, change was something that even the strongest of men couldn't handle, the world already too fragile as it was.

Up until today...Bexley had believed it was the East responsible for the disappearance of her father and son. Her whole world had been shaken when she thought she was going to meet her icy doom and hit the earth, but was caught by someone who was just like them. Now she didn't know what to believe, seeing as she is talking with someone she hadn't known existed. Speaking of that person, another small smirk came to the girls lips as Lee shot back her remark to him, her eyebrows raising slightly as Lee stated that he liked the snow and that it seemed to help keep them out of sight for 17 years. Cocky much...? She thought playfully.

Lee wasn't stopping there and it seemed as though Bexley had some decent competition now, a smile formed on her face as he spoke of her never thanking him for saving her, revealing that he now knew she wasn't as weak as he had previously thought. Bexley simply stared at him with one eyebrow raised and as smile on her face as he trailed off his sentence, waiting for her to thank him. "You are gonna be waiting a mighty long time Lee, I can tell you that right now." Her tone was teasing and light, her unease and worry of being in the North melting away slowly. The an entirely new feeling came on and hit her like a ton of bricks. She could feel eyes basically burning a hole in her, Bex didn't even have to turn to face him as she spotted Teddy staring from the corner of her eye. What have I started?She thought to herself, hoping the man who she knew jumped off the edge without looking didn't take her teasing in a different way. Before she could turn her head to meet his eyes, he was leaning back in the pew.

The wood creaked and moaned, bouncing off the walls of the cathedral and gave it a creepy feeling. Bexley shivered slightly as her head turned quickly to catch a glimpse of Teddy's face, his smile he had once been wearing had faltered considerably. The Pit. He asked what the big deal was about The Pit. Bexley had been curious as well. She had heard this "Pit" being used in several different conversations...including the one when they were first captured. Rhett had mentioned something about fighting..she had heard a few people in town passing by talking about the "Pit" as if it was some big event. Bexley's brows furrowed together as she thought about why that had sounded familiar. Fighting in a pit? Bexley couldn't remember much about school and what she had learned but...something about it all sounded oddly familiar. Bexley spoke her mind, "Sounds like some sort of gladiator event..."

(lol sorry if its crap XD its like 3am.)

 

[ReverseTex]

Lee Danvers

Interactions/Mentions:
Bellz
Rhaine

Lee studied the two while both were snickering and replying. There was something he couldn’t place, and his curiousity needed to be quenched... Bexley’s hair was a soft curly brown, quite similar to Atticus Otto. Theodore’s eyes were a deep sapphire blue, just like Atticus Otto. His nose was almost identical to Bexley as well, only making his suspicions rise. And their constant need to rub, touch, or look at each other was annoying, yet very telling. Rhett had told him once before of the story on how he adopted the boy, rescuing from a southern caravan that was butchered without his order. He always had faith in Rhett, but staring at these two.... It was almost as clear as glass.

Snapping out of his studies, his seriousness fading again when he realized he had turned stone-like. But both were now dropping the subject of appearance, and talking about The Pit. “It’s quite similar to the gladiators, actually it was inspired by them. But to give ye’ the short story, it’s our form of justice, as well as entertainment here in Khal. Some of my best scouts were born in those pits, and some of the worst men i’ve seen died in them. “ He has never fought in the pits himself, only have been a scout since he was 16. The idea always fascinated him, jumping in and having hundreds cheer your name... It was always tempting for him.

Looking past the two briefly, his hawk-like eyes scanning the pew area for any sign of movement or others. Once satisfied, his expression serious now, and focused on the two again. “Now what i’m about to say is best discussed once we’re on ye’ side... I could get killed for it.” Stepping closer to the two, he dipped his head down and whispered. “Ye’ making it quite clear ye’ two are a couple of sorts. Don’t give me details, just a straight answer ok? Did the two of you ever have a child...?”

 

[KingofAesir]

Keone Quanah

Keone had a rather rough night that night. Constant tossing and turning did not help his already draining boughts of sleeplessness. Of course, his sleeping habits were due to nightmares. The young Indian man couldn't quite place where they came from, the nightmares. They were always the same thing, his mother and father looking down on what he assumed was his own managed body, their eyes literally glowing against the backdrop of black. Sometimes it was raining. Sometimes it wasn't. Sometimes it was raining blood.

Whichever it was, he always woke up at the same point in his dream. His parents would turn in the direction he was watching from and smile, terribly crooked and cracked smiles that made him quiver, and he would shoot up in his bed, panting. Idra always came running in, talking fast and saying something about him screaming and scaring the daylights out if her. He's always assure his aunt that he was fine and to go back to bed. She never left until he fell back to sleep.

This morning, Idra had told him over breakfast that he hadn't made a sound that night. Which was obviously unusual for him. She seemed like she thought this more of a concern than him waking up screaming every night.

"You didn't make a peep." The Sioux woman and said concerned,"I've never heard you so quiet." She'd paused here, waiting for him to tell her why he'd been so silent.

"I didn't sleep." He told her offhandedly, not even bothering to look up at her. Key pushed his food away from him and thanked her before standing up out of his chair and heading toward the door.

"Keone." His aunt called out to him, "You need to go see a medic." Key stopped momentarily and shook his head.

"I'm fine, Aunt Idra. I've got to go to work." With that, Keone pushed open the door and headed out toward the fields.
------------------------------

He'd been out maybe four or so hours when something in his walkie caught his attention. Something about a meeting and Teddy. Keone frowned and stood from where he was crouched by a dieing carrot plant. He'd best head to this meeting to see what was going on. Key shiver his gloves in the back pocket of his jeans and strode off the fields.

It hasn't taken him too terribly long to reach the Council Hall and the sight of Michael and Rosemary entering the place. Keone slipped in just behind them and listened intently as Michael spoke about what was happening. Key frowned at the mention of people in the North. If there were people out there and they had Teddy....Keone hated to think about what they'd do to the poor guy. The mention of Bexley didn't phase him much, he wasn't the slightest concerned with the West and their leader. But he was curious about what the West would do about this.

"Probably freaking out." Key offered from the corner of the room, shoving his hands in his pockets,"I mean, she is their leader and I doubt they can function properly without their gunslinger." Keone chuckled, pushing hair out of his eyes and leaning back against the wall to signal the end of his words.

Michael Misty Gray

Mentions: Teddy Rhaine , Rosemary Rhaine , Bexley Bellz ​

 

[Rhaine]

Theodore "Teddy" Ashworth
with: Bexley Bellz , Lee ReverseTex
location: Khal's War Room
​

In some corner of his mind, Teddy had suspected what, "The Pit," truly was, through the context it had been mentioned in. Always as a threat. Always as a foreboding shadow on the horizon. Still, now that he knew in a sense what it was, from the mouth of a Northman himself, it ceased to truly hold any threatening cadence. Teddy dimly thought that it was an environment he would thrive in. In a sense, it might be the end-all-be-all of everything he had been groomed for. The hot rush of combat briefly entered his system with the thought- the bloodied knuckles, the roar of his heart-beat, the crash and inevitable fall. It was overshadowing and all encompassing - an enemy and a friend.

He shook the thought away, returning to himself in the sharp, tinted Northern light shining through the windows of the cathedral. Only an echo remained, and it starkly resembled his father's voice.

"Buck the fuck up, Teddy boy."
​

He was brought back as Lee's expression turned solemn. His warning words sent a weak sort of dread through him, not intact enough for the spark to truly catch.

When the question reached him, Teddy's eyes widened. He wanted to glance at the woman beside him but couldn't seem to. A sinking, falling feeling took root in his chest, and he realized it hadn't left in the first place. Terrible, almost overwhelming guilt pricked hot and shameful on the back of his neck, and he fidgeted before he spoke, grim, heavy, and final.

A child? No, that was the sort of gift someone like him didn't deserve. His certainty broke apart any rumination or image of a baby that they might've had in another life. He would have hoped it might have taken after her.

"No." His mouth set in a firm line, though his face was softened out by a hint of regret and an odd sort of mix of sorrow and yearning. He wished his answer might be different.

"I... fucked it up before.... before anything like that could happen for us."

His voice was low and brought down to a hush - speaking the sincere truth that he knew. Teddy's posture was a stark contrast to the relaxed ease from a moment ago. He was drawn tight. He crossed his arms over his chest, his eyes dropping once more to the wood grain of the polished pew.

 

[Bellz]

Bexley Withers​

with: Teddy Rhaine Lee ReverseTex mentions: Kyle r e i location: War Room ​

Bexley was quite interested to know that she wasn't the only one who ran her faction much to her own liking in historic events. Rhett seemed to have a fetish for the gladiators much like she did for the old west...Interesting. Lee explained what the Pit was for and how they handled those who had done Khal wrong and what they did for fun. Watching people beat the living shit out of each other didn't sound like much fun...Bex didn't play with her food. She was more shoot one, get 'er done type of gal, not wanting anyone to suffer despite the crimes they committed. It would only make her as bad as those crawlers, or that creepy ass doctor. Bexley was aware of the almost...strange look that Lee was giving them, but in no way was she prepared for such a question.

“Ye’ making it quite clear ye’ two are a couple of sorts. Don’t give me details, just a straight answer ok? Did the two of you ever have a child...?” Bexley's body froze as her mind went to Atticus. She tried her best to stay composed in those moments but what reasoning would this complete stranger have to ask about her baby? Bexley's heart was sent galloping in her chest and for a few moments she had forgotten how to even breathe. The world around her was beginning to melt and warp away as a distant and long pushed away memory came to her mind.

....It had been the night she was suppose to tell him. She had been so ecstatic to see the look on his face when she told them about the baby they were going to have. That had all changed when she had been informed by a friend of his actions. Bexley knew he was patrolling that night, them having arranged to meet after in the tunnels below, after he returned home for a few things. By passing the tunnels the girl made a beeline for his home instead, she waited for hours in the dark, alone in his room until he finally arrived home. She would never forget the tears that were already streaming down his face, clearly...having something to tell her when he turned on the light and saw her sitting there on his bed.

The young woman stood slowly and shook her head, pushing past Teddy roughly. She had been prepared to scream, to tell him that he was nothing more than a jerk like his old man. Anything to hurt him as much as he had in those few moments. But she found herself only feeling guilt for the things she was about to say, the things she wanted to say. He was crying, apologizing to her, begging her to forgive him as she walked down the hall towards the front door. Tears streamed down her face as a wave of nausea reminded her what she would now be going through alone. This made her angry. Turning her head to Teddy as he finally caught up with her, she brushed his hand off her arm. "Was I not enough Teddy? Did you really need some other woman to fulfill your life? To make you happy? I was just some toy to you!" She felt dirty, used. The child she had felt happy about carrying now seemed like a disgusting reminder as she turned and left him begging her to stay.

She couldn't have been more wrong....

Bexley's memory was halted from progressing any further as Teddy spoke. Her blue eyes shot to stare at the man who now sat taunt and stressed beside her. He didn't meet her eyes, no glances spared her way. The guilt was clear in his voice, she hoped he wouldn't continue to speak further, not sure how much she could take but just as she contemplated begging to a god to keep him from speaking his feelings or revealing any truths....he spoke. Bexley felt 18 years old again, and it was like a kick to the head. "I... fucked it up before.... before anything like that could happen for us." The tone familiar to the one he had used the night they fell apart, shattered her glassy appearance as she let the slightest of breath escape her lips. Lee looked to Bex and her eyes practically begged him to not question any further, to not dive deep into the emotional train wreck that was the short lasting but forever painful memory of what could have been.

It hurt all the more knowing that Teddy could have been an amazing father. In their teen years, when things were much more simpler...they had even entertained the thought of getting married and starting a family. Bexley always told Teddy that she wanted a big family, not wanting to have her own child grow up an only child...it was a lonely experience. Teddy had grown up around 4 older brothers so he had no problem agreeing. It would have been perfect, they would have been great parents. Maybe if she would have told him...Atticus would still be here. That passing thought stung as she blamed herself still for her son's disappearance. The grief of it all hollowing out her heart with a spoon and serving it in the form of a frown on her face. She finally nodded her head and agreed with Teddy, "No children...at least that are his." She was referring to her adopted son Kyle, who at the time of her relationship with Teddy was known as her little brother. The boy couldn't stop calling her mom however and after her father died she was more open to the idea of it all, especially after losing her biological son. She loved the kid with everything she had and blood or not, she was his mother. Bexley's suspicion about Lee was amplified a bit, feeling as though the man had something he needed to say. He had said it would be safer to speak about this on the south side...but why? Bexley bit back any feelings of hope that her son might be alive...not wanting to believe in something that will only destroy her when she finds it to be untrue."Why do you ask?" The woman raised her eyebrows lightly, narrowing her eyes.

 

[ReverseTex]

Lee Danvers

Interactions/Mentions:
Bellz
Rhaine

Lee bit his lip, studying both Teddy and Bexley with a sullen expression. He had been right. From the two’s reaction, it seemed Bexley took his observation harder. With a blink, everything became clear.

It could all be pieced together now, all thanks to his trusty eyes and ears. So it was clear to him that Bexley took the question hardest, as a mother would. Teddy did take it, though not the inquiry about children. Their relationship was apparent, didn’t matter if it was past or present, it still thrived in both. But, Bexley did have a child, her reaction was utterly clear of it. And weighing Teddy’s, it was also clear he didn’t know of the mysterious child. Looking at his feet briefly, a sad realization was washed upon him. He had anyalzed this two in a matter of minutes, and most likely solved one of their largest sins... Atticus Otto though adopted by Rhett, Bexley Withers was clearly the boy’s long lost mother, and Theodore Ashworth the bastard father.

Blinking his silver eyes, coming back from his thoughts once again, he realized the two were utterly concerned now. Goddammit Lee... Scanning the area once more, he squatted down, leaning his elbows on his knees. “I cant tell ye’ here, not near anyone who’ll rat me out... Violette can’t even know...” The last part pained him, realizing the grave mistake he had just made. He wouldn’t be able to return North after he told these people the truth... But the truth needed to be told. “If I told ye’ the truth right now, my head would be on a pike, or worse. Once we’re down south, and Violette heads east with you Teddy, i’ll tell Bexley. Once I tell her, we can arrange a meeting of some sort so I can properly tell you, and we can plan accordingly... Just know this. That caravan has more of a story than anything I can tell ye’...”

 

[deer]

Jasper Fairley

Co-Head of Saloon​

The radio comm started going off the moment he ordered everyone to quickly head to Headquarters. One after another, Jasper heard Andrea's voice coming into the comm stating quickly about there being trouble at the North Wall. Jasper could only grit his teeth before he heard Avalon's voice next as she asked for medical assistance from Elizabeth stating Kyle had been injured. Everything has definitely gone to shit. Jasper groaned internally as he blamed himself for not keeping a watchful eye on Bexley. He should have known the girl had to go and get herself into trouble. But, how much this time? However, before Jasper could direct another order into the comm that he got the message, another voice came. But, the voice he knew was not as calm or playful as it should have been, instead it was raw, filled with an emotion that Jasper couldn't describe - it was Garett. What else could be bad? A skin-walker? Someone injured from an attack? So many thoughts ran through his head but he could only hope Marlene and Rita would be able to answer to the call from Garett before he heard Easton's voice. Narrowing his eyes, Jasper could only sigh as he heard Easton's report of seeing skin walkers and disposing of them. Those damned zombies should fuck off already. You're already dead, stop grasping onto a life you can never have again. Jasper had been pacing back and forth before speaking into the comm, "Tonto to anyone who hears this message. Keep your radio comm on at all time. If you can not make it to the meeting, make sure you are on call and state your whereabouts. I need everyone on standby and alert. Do you read me? Over." His tone eerily calm though there was underlying concern and frustration of not knowing what happened to his people that caused his people to run around like a chicken on fire. After those words, Jasper headed towards the bar that was stationed inside the Headquarters, pouring a glass of scotch before chugging it down. His fist clenched tightly against the glass as he closed his eyes in frustration. Kyle was injured. Bexley was missing. Garett had found something that needed higher medical assistance. What exactly is happening? To say the least, Saloon hadn't had this much chaoticness in a few months. So many thoughts ran through Jasper's head once more as he continued to pour another glass of scotch into his glass. What did Bexley want from him? Lead the people of Saloon? Gritting his teeth, Jasper shook his head, he promised her father once, before that he'd watch over her. Look where that got him.

However, hearing the rumbling and booming sound of a male entering Headquarters, Jasper was quick to react, grabbing his gun and pointing it directly at the person. Jasper was definitely jumpy and it took him a moment to realise it was only Easton who came into the clearing. Taking a deep breath, Jasper placed the gun back on the counter before greeting him. "Welcome. The others should be arriving shortly time. There's much to discuss." He responded, taking out a lighter before giving a sheepish grin. "There should be a pack of cigar behind the counter." Without further ado, moments later Andrea came into the clearing along with the rest of scouts who came back from the North Wall and the rest of the crew members who had heard his orders. As Jasper sighed to himself, he stood in the middle of the room, signaling everyone to take their seat. "Thank you for your cooperation. We don't have a moment to lose. Tell me of what has happened at the North Wall and anything else I need to know of immediately. Where has our Leader gone and where is Kyle? And what of Garett?" And without a second of silence, one-by-one voices were echoed throughout the meeting. First started Andrea and continued to carry on as each scout reported what had happened within that day.

The moment he heard that Kyle had told the others of there being people over the North Wall and Bexley plus a crew member of the East had fallen over, Jasper gritted his teeth before finding himself throwing his scotch glass across the room, shattering it completely out of rage and irritation. His voice rose loudly and boomed with disappointment, "And you idiots allowed them to jump over the damn wall? Where the fuck was back-up? What in high name's were the rest of you baffoons doing!? Family sticks together. No one gets left behind, dammit." Jasper never , ever, yelled at his teammates, much less family before. His breathing was shallow and he found himself shaking in his bones from the outburst he caused. He blamed himself for the mistake being made. It was all his fault, not theirs. With a click of his tongue, Jasper turned away from the others, rubbing his face as he tried to calm himself down.

Kyle had been reluctant to leave his spot according to Avalon so she had stayed with him. The medic team should have been out on the field by now. Jasper could only hope no one else was in boiling hot water. Turning back to his family, his face wreary and stressed, he waited for the comebacks and arguments about his own failure. "I. . . apologise. This wasn't your fault. It was mine. And we are going to get through this. That wasn't. . . I wasn't in my right mindset." He began, finding himself slightly sobering up. Jasper was the Co-Head for crying out loud, weakness wasn't an option. Clearing his throat he stood tall, "Forgive me for my actions. That was uncalled for and unnecessary. We shouldn't be arguing and I take full blame. You say there's people over the wall? How is this possible? And they said they'll break Bexley and her plus one back tomorrow?" To be truthful, Jasper never thought there would be people aside from those in Saloon and those in Taurus that were there, with them, in this zombie apocalypse. Were they friends or foes? Whatever it was, Jasper was determined to find out. What was their civilisation like? Was it like theirs or Taurus? The people? He was astonished by the news . . . and the only way he could find out more is if those people kept true to their word. Jasper could only hope.

" Everyone must be tired from today's event. We must have hope that Bexley will in fact return tomorrow. However, to be safe, I need our weapon's specialist to gather troops around for back-up. I need our medics to be fully aware and alert. If she does not come back tomorrow, prepare for an attack. We will not lose one of our own." Jasper started, his voice rising higher and fuller with confidence and strength. " Eat and rest up. We have a big day tomorrow. Let us quickly plan." And with that, the meeting went on until 10PM as Jasper worked with the scouts, including snipers to make sure everyone was in a formation that was in range in case something went wrong tomorrow. It was odd that the people who had captured Bexley didn't order some sort of trade but were willingly returning her. Nevertheless, he made sure there were greeters for Bexley and medics. As for Garett, he had sent back-ups to his location, making sure whatever was happening on his side, he would be able to take care of himself. He sent a scout and an added note of what was happening and wished his safe return. Jasper just hoped that Kyle and Avalon could last through the night.
tags: Bellz , Rhaine , Cosmosis , Troldmand , neverbackdown , KingofAesir , ReverseTex , nymphadora. , Misty Gray , r e i , JustAlexandra , lavendre , slim , shadowz1995 , myst.erion

codedbymeraki.
hidden scroll

 

[deer]

Violette Lockwood

Co-Head of Khal​

Her eyes flickered back and forth as she found herself standing behind the Northern Wolf, appearing to be listening though her mind had been elsewhere. The night before had caused a stirr in her heart and the conversation she had with Doctor Salazar was informative enough. Her curious mind had been sedated, however, she hoped to see the test-run of his experiment as soon as possible. New information intrigued her to no end and she wanted to be front and center to see the accomplishments. Violette knew the Doctor, perhaps, more than most in Khal. A secret for a secret and she could only confide in him for the substance she needed. Some congratulated her while some sneered at her success, the Doctor had been more than forth-coming, especially since a deal was a deal. He kept his end and she kept her end of the bargain. It was only right for her to maintain a neutral alliance and reputation. Nevertheless, her attention was caught elsewhere when she noticed Ajan and Inej in the meeting, glancing at them briefly before her eyes landed on Lee. An inaudible sigh escaped her lips knowing that they were not on bad terms, instead, better terms than before. He had accepted her offer for a drink and her restless mind was appeased.

However, when the Southerners began to speak, Violette's attention was drawn back to the matters at hand as she listened carefully to their accent and words. The woman Bexley Withers - as she called herself - spoke first. Her tact was fair, first came her praise and gratitude before moving on towards the negotiation to further understand what resources they could provide and help ally themselves with Khal. However, when the man Theodore spoke their leader's name. Violette furrowed her brows slightly, hearing another woman's name being mentioned as their leader. Was the South so different they allowed woman to be leaders and men followed their every word? How intriguing. But, with Theodore's description of the woman she could imagine vividly the difference between the two leaders of West and East. One seemed more brazen, bold - ready to take up arms - while the other sounded more peaceful and well-put together - preferring words. It would certainly be a sight to see both leaders together as it sounded to her ears that they were quite different in their approaches. Violette had once heard through the grapevine of the two factions not getting along but for what reason she hadn't known. But, that only amused her even more.

When The Northern Wolf responded that their negotiation was incomplete without the East's leader Rosemary, Violette's eyes widened slightly when he mentioned that both her and Lee were to accompany Bexley and Theodore back to the South to get to know their land before discussing further. Violette's heart immediately dropped and she couldn't help but find herself internally fighting the different emotions and need to speak against the Northern Wolf's order. However, Violette knew not to disobey such orders and could only merely nod when he spoke to her to be back within the hour and get what she needed. The meeting was adjourned and Violette followed suit to leave the cathedral leaving only the Southerners inside.

As Violette stepped outside, her eyes were drawn to the Northern Wolf and as much as she wanted to go up to him and voice her concerns, she knew she shouldn't, not in an open area. So, instead, she closed her lips and watched as Rhett walked off, keeping a memory of his silhouette engraved in her mind. She didn't know when she would come back from her small trip, but even then, it had been so long since she stepped foot out of Khal. A part of her was seething with the idea of leaving behind her home but the other part of her realised how great of an opportunity this was for her. She, afterall, had always hoped and dreamed of the day she could leave Khal and see what else was out there. Would she feel the sun on her skin? Would she feel the rain patter against her frame? The thought was frightening and new yet tempting. The walk home to her apartment was slow-paced as she took her time preparing. Her hands reached out, as she felt the snowflakes delicately fall at her tips before she knelt on the ground, letting the cold yet fluffiness of snow overcome her knee. It was soft and felt like cushions of a couch. Violette was used to seeing snow and having the cold envelop her being - the whiteness surrounding her as the snow flakes danced. It was beautiful.

Once Violette passed through the market, a small thin smile displayed on her lips as took her time surveying the different stands. Taking in the low, buzzing noise of her people living out their everyday lives. She would miss hearing the arguments that occured whenever she passed by as the people tended to barter with one another for goods. As Violette approached the field, her eyes scanned the crops that only grew in harsh climate.

"Violette?" A voice from behind her spoke in a questioning tone. Turning around, she was greeted by Manny . "I heard." He stated, his brows creasing together. "If you are gone for too long, you know what could happen. I could already hear the cheers from a mile away." Manny bluntly commented.

Shaking her head, Violette sighed, "You should have a little more faith in me. I am not going anywhere. This is an assignment the Northern Wolf bestowed on me." She stated, leaving no room for argument though Manny knew the woman long enough to know she was hesitating. "I will see you soon. Don't forget. I did best you fair and square." Violette chuckled, giving a slight wave before moving on towards her apartment - a few miles away from the Pit. As Violette returned home and packed her things neatly, her eyes scanned her apartment, taking in the memories that flashback in her head. It wasn't long before Violette came back to present day as she lifted up her shirt, the mark glaring in the reflection of the choices she made to get to where she is now. Taking a deep breath before making her way out of her apartment and towards her new "destiny", Violette made her way back towards the cathedral. Should she let the others know of her departure? Perhaps it wasn't necessary seeing as Manny had heard of her leaving and Ajan and Inej were in the meeting. Maybe the Doctor should know. After a few moments of back and forth, Violette decided it wasn't necessary to inform the Doctor of her whereabouts, eventually he would find out.

As Violette approached the cathedral and walked inside the building, she stood near the doorway as her brows furrowed together, seeing Lee hunched over slightly as he spoke towards the Southerners. Tilting her head to the side slightly, Violette waited patiently only to hear hushed tones being transferred between the three. Warning bells rang off in her head and Violette felt something stir inside of her as she watched the scene before her. She couldn't hear what was said, but it only made her more curious and suspicious of her scout's actions. Clearing her throat gently, Violette made her presence known, "Is there something the matter?" She questioned, her light-foot steps approaching the pew where Bexley, Theodore, and Lee were stationed. When did Lee get so close to them? "Since there are two factions to explore, should we divide and conquer? Lee, you can head to the West with Bexley and I can go the East with Theodore. How does that sound?" Violette suggested, her eyes scanning the two Southerners once more before looking between the three of them. Her stature never faltered as her disposition stayed tall, graceful, and strong. "It would be wise for us to have a move on. It is only appropriate that we head towards the Wall now. We should not keep others waiting." She finished before turning around to walk out of the cathedral, her soft footsteps trailing echoing behind her.
tags: Bellz , Rhaine , ReverseTex , shadowz1995 , nymphadora. , slim

codedbymeraki.
hidden scroll

 

[shadowz1995]

Doctor Ivan Salazar

Ever since the world turned to a living hell on Earth with the pathogen that the doc had a heavy hand in creating, there were a few things that irritated the doctor. Performing surgeries without proper equipment, sterilizations, or even assistants was among one of the many things. Its not as if Ivan didn't understand that proper surgical equipment and conditions was practically a luxury of modern royalty at this point. A luxury that no one possessed in these times. The closest thing to a completely sterile enviroment was Salazar's lab and it was a hell of a task to keep it that way.

The final suture was sewn after a hopefully, successful surgery. The surgery itself was never much of a concern to the good doctor but rather, the risk of infection afterwards. Antibiotics were about as rare as painkillers. Painkillers were a luxury that most couldnt afford and to deal with the excruciating pain of recovering from an operation with little to no pain nullifiers was something no one could suffer through in silence. The spasms the pain caused along with the sudden movements often caused the stitches to come undone and cause a problem again. It wasn't uncommon for someone who received a harsh gut wound to have their innards spilling out because they moved too quickly.

Like the patient in question...

Got into a disagreement with a hungry bear that was looking for food in the winter wonderland that was Khal. While the hunters killed the animal, this one didn't get away unscathed and Dr. Salazar had to fix him up. Now, he had to fix him up again because he had a laughing fit while recovering and the sutures bursted open. Blood followed like water through a broken dam and the viscera along with it. They managed to keep him stabilized.... kind of. The man was in a bad way and the "medics" in Khal weren't impressive nor competent. At least, not to the doctor.

"Clean up the area quickly and get him hooked up to one the IVs. He should be waking up in about an hour. Add the morphine to the drip in exactly 40 minutes from now. Be stingy with it. You have many people in need of it and not enough to go around. A few can suffer a lot or everyone can suffer a little.

.....

Go! Muevanse! People are in pain and you are standing around like idiotas!" Those words spurred the people around him to action. As if just realizing that every second they wasted was a second of prolong agony that someone didn't need to experience. Of course, everyone who worked with Dr. Salazar knew that he didn't really care if they were in pain or not. He didn't know any of these people and it was doubtful if he would bat an eye if he did. Ivan valued people who were useful to him.... which were none of these people currently. He was doing this to uphold his end of the deal with the people of Khal and nothing more. A formality at best.

The operation patient was transfered from the crude operating table to an old gurney requistioned from one of the abandoned hospitals in the area and carefully wheeled out in a hurry.

One of the benefits of the apocalypse was that he didnt have to care about how others perceived him when he was making his rounds...

The plastic apron he wore, gloves, surgical mask, and even shoes were dyed red with fresh blood. The coppery scent permeating his person. Cold, calculating grey eyes shifted rapidly between patients in the sick bay. He evaluated the general condition of each patient at staggering speeds, never pausing for more than a heartbeat's length for every person. The ones that required his attention were dealt with rapidly. Things like adjusting the specific amount of medicine in a drip for a recovering patient or for one that was getting worse. Any patients he needed to speak with to check on their progress were dealt with just as quickly as well. Partially because Dr. Salazar didn't chew the fat with these people, asking how their day was or if they were comfortable. Partially because the people didn't want the doctor hanging around more than necessary either. The unfeeling, steely ire of the medic in combination with the stench of blood (and the fact the blood from his operations was still dripping from his apron) was enough to make even the coldest and hardest of veterans squirm in their seats. As if they were being observed as something less than human. Like some specimen to be taken apart at his whim.

Which, in reality, would make the doctor actually care about them a bit. After all, if they were furthering his research, they deserved some better treatment. But alas, this wasn't the case and possibly never would be.

Finding useful people was such a hassle.....

The thought of Khal's very own second-in-command crossed the doctor's mind. She wasn't.... particularly useful to him in anyway but the woman had a thirst for knowledge that he found refreshing. A true drive to know the unknown. Something he greatly respected whenever he found it in people. Even if she didn't understand a word of what he was talking about, she would ask questions and do her best to understand his words. Even going as far as learning some spanish so she could pick up on some of his meanings when the english language failed him for whatever reason. Ivan wasn't sure if she knew he could speak in quite the number of languages fluently but that was a mere curiosity.... and for Dr. Salazar to be even mildly curious about anyone was enough to say something about their character.

Regardless or whether she was aware of it or not, whenever the boundless nay-sayings of Violette were stated within the grey-eyed man's presence, he was quick to silence them like the ignorant lambs they were. He asked questions like, "What would you do? How would you handle it? What's a better alternative?" So on and so forth. Normally, they would realize the ignorance of their words and they were quick to silence themselves. At least, in his presence. To those that had a bit more lip to offer, Dr. Salazar enjoyed the opportunity to tear them apart with logic, reasoning, and intellect. Flipping anything and everything they say around like pancake servings. If they didn't take the hint initially, they certainly learned the hard way to never argue with Doctor Ivan Salazar.

If they could not even provide pleasant conversation like Khal's second could, then what place did they have in looking down on her. What business do insects have looking down at the birds who eat them?

Such ignorant insects were better off being used as fodder for creating the cure and saving the world.

............


Still, Vi was one of the few exceptions to the general rule of usefulness to Ivan. Ivan's dog, Kovu, being the only other exception. Good company was hard to come by in a world full of lambs like these. This was reinforced by lambs that think themselves lions like a certain woman that was being treated like a guest when in reality, she was just being used. Ivan didn't need to be present at the meeting to see the wheels of destruction being set in motion.....

Well, he gave both of the southern leaders fair warning. What they did with it was of no real matter to him. Though, the thought brought him to wonder if the southerners would prove to be better test subjects than the northerners? Possibly. Whenever The Wolf decided to spring whatever plan he had in mind, he might find out.

The medical man pulled off his blood soaked clothes and got dressed in the clothes that he came in but the smell of blood had sunk into his hair and skin. No matter. Whenever Ivan was in Khal, the people knew him by the constant smell of death he had on him. The blood and death of trying to save their people but regardless, it earned him a bad reputation. As if he was some sort of harbinger of evil.

Funny, the way lambs thought of their betters. So funny that Ivan might have actually laughed if he cared.
​

ReverseTex deer Bellz Rhaine

 

[Bellz]

Bexley Withers​

with: Teddy Rhaine Lee ReverseTex Vi deer mentions: Kyle r e i location: Cathedral about to be on their way home. ​

Bexley was confused. Lee leaned down and explained to them why he couldn't say anything...but it wasn't much of an explanation. Her mind was racing at a thousand miles a second as she thought what this man of the North could possibly have to say on the subject of any children she may or may not have had. Her heart raced as her mind foolishly began to wonder if there was hope for finding Atticus yet. It was a dream she had given up only 6 months prior. Bexley had taken it upon herself to search for her father and son long after she had dismissed the original search parties, she would leave for a few days on end to explore the territories that had once been dominated by other factions, seeing if maybe...just maybe..she would find them again.

3 1/2 years later she had finally mentally and physically given up. The memory of her father and son would never be forgotten in her mind, and she knew that was the best she could do. Bexley had been sprung into unexpected motherhood with both of her children. From time to time, long after Atticus disappeared...she would find herself calling Kyle that name, confusing the boys for a split second...clearly longing for her young son's return. Bexley was aware that her adopted son might have felt...unwanted at times. There was never really any words she could use to describe how much that wasn't true and how much she loved the boy. He was there for her every step of the way. Replacing what was lost in a sense. But she would never forget about Atticus, as she was not the only parent of that sweet boy. Ironically, the man who shared the honor of having such a title...sat beside her, unknowing of the pain and lose she felt over a son he never knew existed.

But Lee couldn't possibly know about Kyle...and she wouldn't see any reasoning behind his secrecy...as the boy had been sent back over the wall without much fuss. Bexley wanted to ask more questions when Violette made herself known. It seemed as though Lee would be coming with her and Violette would be returning to the east. Looking at the pair, she could tell that seemed to be a rather wise decision personality wise. And Bex needed Lee to spill the beans. Nodding her head slowly in agreement, Bex stood, the pew groaning slightly at the shifting of weight. "I've been waiting to hear those words all day." She spoke to Violette with honesty. The north was unique in its own sense. But she could definitely live without the creepy vibes, the bit and the frost bite that would form on her ass if she stayed outside too long.

 

[Bellz]

Chapter 3: Too close for Comfort​

TAURUS
Date: Nov, 17, 2017
Time: 0900 hours (9am)
Weather: Chill in the air, light breeze, sunny.
SALOON
Date: Nov , 17 , 2017
Time: 0900 hours (9am)
Weather: Chill in the air, light breeze, sunny.
Theodore Ashworth and Bexley Withers are scheduled to return home. Both factions anxiously await their return and just when it seemed everything would return to normal...they had visitors.
A meeting will be held in the clearing...perhaps sealing the fate of the factions forever. An unexpected turn of events will lead to unexpected allies.

Date: Nov , 17 , 2017
Time: 0900 hours (9am)
Weather: Cold. Very Cold.
All seems well in Khal on all accounts...nothing to report...or is there?

South​

North​

code by pasta​

Bellz Rhaine Enzyme deer KingofAesir nymphadora. Misty Gray shadowz1995 slim ReverseTex lavendre neverbackdown Cosmosis JustAlexandra

 

[Bellz]

Bexley Withers​

with: Teddy Rhaine Lee ReverseTex Vi deer Kyle r e i Ava KingofAesir mentions: location: North side of wall---> South side. ​

"So is this really the only way over the wall?" Bexley asked Lee and Violette as they exited the Hummers they had been brought into Khal the previous day. The chilled tundra air caused the small westerner to shiver greatly, her teeth chattering. Bexley remember snow from when she was a young girl, but she had enjoyed it much more back then. And it was only around every winter...this snow globe seemed to shake forever, sprinkling flurries and dusting the earth with it. Bexley was intrigued by the people of Khal, but the location was not her cup of tea and she was happy to leave. However as she stared at the Claw once more, she wondered why they had to be catapulted of the wall.

Despite having so brazenly climbed the tree, causing her ultimate fall over the wall. Bexley wasn't a fan of heights, and she wasn't sure she trusted the contraption. Her eyes scanned the thing as they were ushered over to it. Of course, she would be the first one to go over. Knowing that most likely Kyle was waiting on the other side just as he had promised, no one wanted to be shot by a young boy with a scary accurate aim. The man who had taken Kyle up the thing was now waiting for her. Once she was secured, the machine was kicked into gear without warning and she was sent up towards the wall, everything disappearing in the thick clouds that hovered near it.

The line stopped just at the top of the wall where she was promptly dropped off. Bexley froze in fear of falling again, shuffling until she reached the branch she had used yesterday. Forgetting all about the North for a moment, she was eager to get back to her side. Jumping to it, she made it without slipping, thanks to the lack of ice. She had never been more relieved to feel the warm bark of the tree on her hands, slipping from one branch to the other quickly, she bypassed taking the less dangerous way out and jumped from the branch to the grassy ground of Central park below. She rolled through the landing in a summersault and let out an "Umph!" As she fell back from the motion onto her behind. Blinking at the brightness of the sun, she moved her arms to shield it from her vision momentarily. Her eyes adjusted slowly, the headache that had threatened to occur from the piercing light being subdued by her arm. She blinked a few times more, before slowly moving her arm away.

The warmth of the sun on her skin made the western leader smile and she snapped her head up to see if Kyle had stayed behind. She found the boy and Ava sitting by the wall and before she could help herself, the young woman placed a gentle hand to the bandaged wound on her forehead. "I've just been through hell and back and y'all are sleeping on the job." Bexley said warmly as she stood from her seated position in the grass. Her family was so immensely loyal to her, she briefly wondered what she had done to deserve such a gift."Y'all just gonna continue to gawk at me or can I get a hug or something!? I was freezing my ass off over there!" Bexley knew that within moments, the nice reunion she would have with them would be over and Teddy and the Northerners would set them on edge.

 

[KingofAesir]

Avalon Dalton

At some point during their stay at the oh so accommodating wall, Avalon had finally let herself fall reluctantly into sleep. The hard surface of the wall combined with the uncomfortableness of leaning her head against her ponytail made for a rather restless sleep. She's been scared when she woke up to the sound of something hitting a tree. She hadn't known exactly why.

The thing that hit the tree had hopped down onto the ground not long after. It took a second for Avalon's eyes to adjust and register who it was. The shape took the form of Bexley sitting on the ground in front of them. Avalon let out a long breath and tension in her shoulders dropped to a sag.

Bexley said some snarky comment about them sleeping on the job that Avalon barely heard. The brunette was too busy shooting assessing Bexley for any seemingly afflicted injuries. There wasn't anything other than the bandage on her head that caught Avalon's eye. Bexley started complaining about being cold, but Avalon was already moving. The mostly unaffectionate woman was on Bexley in a second, hitting her a little harder than she'd intended in a hug.

"Fucking hell, Bex. I almost had a fucking heart attack. Jesus." Avalon breathed before letting Bexley go, "You, my dear, are a dumbass. Sometimes I think you're trying to bring about my untimely death." Avalon chuckled and hugged Bexley again after slugging her in the shoulder playfully.
​

Bellz