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

[Bellz]

Bexley Withers​

with: Ava KingofAesir , Kyle r e i , Lee ReverseTex , Rosemary Rhaine mentions: Jasper
+ Violette deer location: Center Oak (Central park) ​

Violette had spoken directly to Bexley for the first time and she turned slightly to take in the woman a bit more. Bex had noticed the way the woman looked at Lee, she wasn’t blind or ignorant to what lust and longing looked like. A small smirk fell on her lips, as if she had just remember some sort of inside joke, but answered Violette’s question, ”Yes, the Center Oak is one of the largest oak tree’s in Central park, located on south side of the Great lawn separating our two borders and giving an efficient neutral ground when needed.” Bexley hoped this helped explain what the meeting spot was to the Northerner but she couldn’t help but shake the feeling that Violette didn’t like her very much. What did she say?
Sighing lightly, the woman looked between everyone and nodded her head once. ”I’ll be heading there now.” With that, she turned around to head towards the Center oak. Kyle's voice rang out and she gave his hand a light squeeze as she laughed at his comment. "If we just put us in space we could have George Lucas make some sort of movie out of it." Hippies and Cowboys in Space would be an interesting film, though she had a feeling the meeting that was about to take place would be far more interesting to her people and Rosemary's, the Northerners were like aliens to them after all, unknown and perhaps dangerous to their survival.
Hearing her voice ring out, Bexley looked back to Ava and heard Kyle's request to bring her along. "Nah, come with us! We are gonna head over to the Center oak. Grumpy Tonto can meet us there.” She started to take a few steps in the general direction of the Center oak before she realized she should probably inform the other’s around them, seeing as the conversation had been a bit private. Bex turned to look around at all the people who were still welcoming home Teddy or gawking at the newcomers. She took a second to kinda watch everyone before speaking loud and clear, ”Meeting of the South in 10 minutes at the Center Oak!” With that, she turned on her heels and headed towards the oak itself with Kyle and Ava in tow, not bothering to wait around for anyone else. Bex wasn’t in for warm and mushy greetings like Teddy had been and she knew it. Garrett and Jasper were going to rip her a new one and she could only sit there and let them. It had been her fault after all…she was well aware.
They walked through the park and as they distanced themselves from the other’s, things began to get quieter. Bex was pretty content but always on the alert of her home surroundings when she heard the snap of a twig. Turning around and pulling out the only weapon she had on her, a knife, she looked towards the noise and cursed when she only saw two men walking towards them. Both from her faction, Nick and Darren. ”You are gonna get yourselves killed sneaking up on me like that!” Bexley growled out their way continuing to walk. She looked behind her to see if the guys had disappeared towards the wall but she was irritatingly surprised to see them following her. She stopped dead in her tracks and turned on them, ”Uh….just what the fuck do you think you’re doing?”

”Under orders boss. We are not to leave your side.” The Western leader stiffened at this news and let out a low hiss. Make one mistake and now you need babysitting detail!! ”That’s funny…last time I checked..the only orders you should be following are mine. Who sent you? Was it Jasper? I swear to god if he sent you two goons-“ One of them cleared their throats signaling Bexley to let them speak. Bex sighed and rubbed her temple lightly before nodding. ”Garret sent us….he also told us to tell you that if you pull that crap again he’ll…” Darren trailed off, looking rather unsure of his next words, staring at the Western leader with wide eyes. Bexley narrowed her eyes at the man, causing him to gulp slightly before continuing,”He’llmurderyou.” Darren said quickly smashing the sentence into one big word as he quickly added, “His words! not mine!”
Silence took over for a moment before Bexley let out an exasperated sigh. “Fuck me.” She though aloud before turning on her heels once more and proceeding towards the Center Oak. ”Alright Beevus, give me your walkie. Butthead shut up and follow behind him. You gonna babysit you better be able to keep up capiche?” Nick jogged a little to catch up with Bex before handing her his walkie. She pressed the talk button and spoke into the walkie, turning it to the station everyone used she spoke. ”Oh so now I need babysitting detail? Missed you too Blankie. Beevus and Butthead are here with me now but you better hope they stay out of my way.” With that, she let the air go dead and tossed the walkie behind her, not caring which baffoon reached for it and if they successfully caught it.
The Center Oak came into view, just how they had left it 4 years ago. The last meeting they had with the east was right before her family’s disappearance. Her eyes looked to the bench she once sat in to the left of the tree, when her father was giving his speech and presenting his case to both sides of the factions. It was strange to think that this time around…she wouldn’t be sitting on that bench. Her father’s memory hung in the air around the oak tree like fog, clouding her mind and vision causing her to blink back a few stray tears. Atticus came to mind and she continued to think about the words Lee had spoken to them in the cathedral, the way he wanted everything to be kept a secret, the hushed tone he used. If him and Violette had a thing, which really who were they fooling? Then why did he have to hide this information from her. Bexley’s eyes went to Kyle and she ruffled his hair playfully. ”When that ankle heals up, I’ll have to bring you over here to climb the oak. I forgot just how big this thing is. I think when I was a kid I almost made it to the top!” Her eyes sought out her son’s and hoped that he wasn’t mad at her. He had every right to be. Her mind suddenly went to the time Teddy and her had climbed this very tree. Her heart thumped in her chest wildly at the sudden memory. The idiot had practically risked breaking his neck to save her foolish ass again, trying to conquer her fear of heights. He was a lanky friendly neighborhood spiderman then, but now he was some furry beefy Superman....
Prying her thoughts from that, she needed to focus on what the hell she was going to tell the crowd of people. It needed to be kept short and sweet and to the point. Introducing the northerners would be first and foremost and perhaps a briefing on the information to come. Bexley looked to Ava and Kyle and sighed, waiting for the rest of the people to arrive.

NOTE: TIME SKIP HERE: TO THE MEETING, PLEASE HAVE YOUR CHARACTERS AT THE MEETING IN THE NEXT POST THANK YOU

Bexley cleared her throat and waited for the crowd to settle before speaking. "Alright kids, this shit doesn't happen every day so listen up and listen good. First of all, I would like to apologize to everyone for my foolish behavior..Falling over the wall was never really my intention, however, it has brought some interesting news." Bexley gestured to Lee and Violette to her left beside Rosemary, Jade and Jasper. "We are not as alone as we once thought, our fore fathers believed that nothing lied beyond the wall besides those damned crawlers. Well, that appears to be false. This is Lee and Violette, Northerners from the city of Khal, a place that Theodore and I had the very fortunate opportunity to explore. "Bexley looked to Teddy for a moment pausing briefly slightly losing her thoughts. Clearing her throat again she spoke, "More details will be discussed further as your leaders work with the North on the subject of trading." Bexley took a breath, the tired and weary look on her face made it clear that she was ready to be done with it all. She was tired from the journey in the North, the cold taking a lot of her. But a leader must do what she has to, and that was lead the people in the right direction. Unfortunately that meant that the East would see their freaking peace for a bit. It was in their best interest to stay friendly in front of the North, two factions were far bigger than one obviously and it would be wise if anything were to happen and a war were to break out. There numbers alone would help them. "They are strangers, but that does not mean we treat them with disrespect. Are we clear? Rosemary? Please inform them on how we should treat our guest and what we be expected of our people."

KingofAesir r e i Rhaine deer Misty Gray Enzyme @everjinx rainfall ReverseTex

(omfg sorry if i missed anyone. its so late )

 

[KingofAesir]

Avalon Dalton

Avalon had been more than happy to accompany Kyle and Bexley to the big tree thing in central park that she'd always thought was too big for it's own good. Heights were not Ava's favorite and that tree was definitely very...heighty.

Anyway, the whole fiasco with stupid Garret sending stupid Nick and Darren to "watch" Bexley like she was some child that needed protecting pissed her off. If not for the embarrassment to Bexley, then because he didn't think she could protect her just as well as two meat-for-brain lackies.

So, everything seemed to be leaving Avalon pissed off at the moment. The stupid tree and stupid Garret and everything was stupid. She kinda just wanted to go to sleep. But, she wouldn't allow herself to do such a thing right now. She was too busy glaring down everything that wasn't Bexley or Kyle at the moment. Avalon hoped Garret could feel the eyes burning into the back of his head. She hoped it was somehow painful.

Jerkface.

Avalon huffed and crossed her arms over her chest, leaning back against the tree behind everyone else. Her eyes scanned the place closely as she picked who, in particular, she felt like glaring at. Somewhere in the crowd she spotted a Native American looking boy she instantly remembered as the guy who'd yelled at her on one of her scouting outings one time.

Avalon glared at him too.

He visibly bristled and she felt satisfied with herself as she returned her attention to Bexley and the words that were leaving her mouth. A faint smile appeared on her face and she found herself a little less pissed off than she'd been two seconds ago

Mentions: Bexley Bellz , Kyle and Garret r e i , and Keone @me​

 

[Misty Gray]

Beth Jefferson / Michael Wilson / Lottie Reynolds

​

Mick stood quietly as the meeting got underway. He fidgeted with a pocket knife as he listened to the West's leader address them like she was deserving of everyone's attention after the shit she had pulled. Bexley did apologise and acknowledge that she had been foolish, so that at least encouraged Mick to pay attention a little more openly. She thought the news of the North was interesting, whereas he thought it was another complication and potentially a dangerous one. He couldn't give a damn about the North and right now Bexley was sounding like the hippy label she so often liked to throw around. If only she'd stayed there and left Teddy out of it.

When she told them the strangers were to be treated with respect, he had to stop himself from scoffing. She was talking like the East were the trouble causers, despite it being her who had threatened Teddy based on something she had no evidence at all for, other than what he could only assume was her itching to cause more fighting between the two sides. And she was proven wrong about her accusation. Then she went over the wall and invited the Northerners back here. He didn't like being patronised, not by someone who had been in the wrong from the start. Regardless, he would stay silent for this meeting, for the sake of reducing the pressure on Rosemary's shoulders. As he glanced to Beth, he was sure she wasn't jumping for joy either, knowing she was happy to just continue her life in the East not having to bother with the dangers the West would bring to their doors.

 

[ReverseTex]

Lee Danvers

Interactions/Mentions:
Bellz
deer

Lee couldn’t do much to suppress his amusement with the young boy Kyle, expect bite his lip to withhold his laughter. He knew as much as he tried, a smile was curling from his lips. He could also hear Violettes amusement, only making his rise. But the situation was quickly deescalated by the boys adopted mother, allowing his chuckle to escape. “Ye’ got balls kid, i’ll give ye’ that. But don’t let that get ye’ killed. I’ve seen good men get butchered because they had balls.”

Leaving the boy on that, he returned to Violette, seeing as the group was preparing to head to a meeting of sorts. But what he hadn’t realized was how close the two were, hands practically touching one another. Well he was south of the wall... Pulling her closer by her waist, he smirked. “Pirates. I mean I already talk like one, we should add the patch for good measure no?” Letting her go, she began to ask questions to Bexley, in which he quickly lost interest...



The Center Oak was almost as tall as one of Khal’s fighting pit pillars, but defiantly more elegant. He brushed his hand on the bark as he passed, the crisp texture sanding his rough working hands. Simpering, he made his way towards Bexley with Violette, in which the meeting started.

Standing arms crossed the entire way through, these events usually boring him the pieces. Lee leaned towards Violette, whispering. “Imagine if Rhett saw this hippie stuff? Meeting under a tree? He’d send the New Army over full force...” He smiled, amusing himself with the comment. But, he needed to stay in Violettes loyal side, truely knowing he’d never return North again...

 

[shadowz1995]

Doctor Ivan Salazar

"Much better."

After a relatively full day of experimenting, meeting new lambs, surgeries, hunting for more food, training the new scouts in the art of being cold as the ice around them, and research, Ivan found the time to make the slight adjustments to his toxic paralysis serum. It still wasn't quite where he wanted it but he put a dart into a walker about 30 feet away and with 15 second, it dropped stiff into the pavement. He could possibly improve it further but this was more than enough. Khal had yet to pay tribute to him so he wasnt about to continue giving without receiving his promised research material.

A low, bestial growl came up from beside the Doctor. The sound was enough to send a shiver down the spine of the hardest men in Khal but it merely caused Ivan to absentmindedly reach down with his left arm and pat the creature roughly on the back of the neck. "Con calma Kovu, con calma. Todo esta bien." Sure enough, the animal calmed down and returned to its regularly scheduled panting.

Kovu was a large dog, even by large dog standards. German shepards were known to come in a variety of sizes but it seemed the gods above deemed it fit for Dr. Sal to have the biggest out of place canine companion you could possibly own this side of the wall. There wasnt a hint of color that helped Kovu blend in with the snow and ice. He was a large dog with the classic blacks and browns of a german shepard with chocloate brown eyes and a long, pink tongue hanging lazily out to the side.

This companion served no purpose other than being a traveling companion and warning system at his base or on his research hunts and yet, Ivan found himself to he somewha fond of the animal. It had been 4 years since he found the freezing, half-dead pup, still blind and trying to clutch to the teet of his deceased mother. The litter around him had already fallen prey to the elements but he alone uselessly struggled on. Ivan picked up the pup on a whim and nothing more. Now.....

The canine trotted merrily through the snow towards their fallen target. The dog had long since learned the error of falling prey to his curiosity and maintained a safe distance from fallen Wyrm, who still groaned its hunger into the empty, frigid sky. As if crying out to a heaven that didn't exist; for a God that had long since abandoned them to end it all. It was a pitiful existence that Salazar had a heavy hand in creating.

Where did it go so wrong?

If he could just understand that, he might be able to reverse it all. If only he had a proper research lab with a proper staff. If only he could have recovered his records while the world was going to hell. If only.....

"Christ, I really am old...."

Looking back on the achievements and failure in his life was a habit he only recently developed. A sure testament to his aging mind and body. He couldn't move as fast as he used and his senses weren't anywhere near as sharp. Before he cou-

The restart of growling caused the doctor to turn and see Kovu growling at something that the human man could not see. He strained his ears to listen but only the sounds of the soft, winter winds graced his ears. The sound of the dead trees creaking ever so slightly under its influence. "Okay, okay." It was wise tp never doubt the senses of creature who was many times more sensitive than a humans. The good doctor pulled his knife and thrusted the steel into the base of the zombie's head, severing the connect between brain and body instantly. It would never move again and this fact was made doubly sure by quickly withdrawing the blade, now blackened with coagulated blood, and reinserting it into the brain via ocular cavity.

(In case anyone in Khal is bored. Bit short but its something)

​

 

[Rhaine]

Rosemary Borden
with: Bexley Bellz , Lee ReverseTex , Violette deer , Mick/Beth/Lottie Misty Gray , Jade slim , Avalon KingofAesir , Kyle r e i , Carter Enzyme , Brandy @everjinx
location: the Center Oak

​

The relief of having Teddy returned to them and the odd thrill of seeing Northerners in the flesh had worn down. Rosemary had her wits about her. The circumstances demanded it. All that she had discussed with her people had come to a head. They knew now which way fate had fallen, and it was only a question now of what they meant to do with the situation at hand. Tensions were running high, and never was it more apparent then when they were all before the gaze of the Center Oak.

The last time the South had gathered here, it had meant the ruin of the previous Leader of the West. He was among the lost. Rosemary had been there, had already been acting Leader of the East at length. At times it felt that she had always been so, at times she was surprised by how quickly it had passed. Four years ago, on that day, she had only given a glance to the daughter of the Leader of the West. Rosemary couldn't have known how the winds would change. She hadn't been able to prepare for such a blow, how rapidly everything had spun beyond her control, though she adapted well, as she was prone to. The blame that turned sour on Bexley's lips had been the final stone to fall. No lack of evidence could suffice to persuade. No manner of truthful words or clear reason could release the tension then. Rosemary knew that it wasn't truth Bexley had wanted. Rosemary knew what it was to endure a sudden loss.

Now, Rosemary watched as Bexley addressed their respective peoples, and fleeting amusement slipped through her that didn't show in the open neutrality of her expression. Often times, Bexley still seemed so young to her, despite the fact that they were the same age. She had expected nothing less than callousness, though the brief apology had been a bit of a surprise. Still listening intently, her forget-me-not gaze flitted out into the crowd. For a heavy moment, her eyes locked with Michael's. She took in his expression, the sharp pull of his jaw and the hard line of his mouth. He was biting down words, but it seemed to her that she could hear his thoughts almost as if he had spoken them aloud. She gave the slightest of nods, as if she agreed, as if she meant to reassure him somehow.

She dropped her gaze, returning it to Bexley as she mentioned a city in the north - Khal, she had called it. It seemed her assumption of the Northerners being prosperous in their way had been correct. It wasn't a small settlement. There was a city. The two Northerners who were at her side now had a leader - a leader who wasn't present now, yet had entrusted some mission to them. It was foreboding and easily menacing to think of in its true context, yet Rosemary didn't have all the facts. In these cases, she liked to give people the benefit of the doubt, while preparing herself for betrayal, at least until she was sure otherwise. She liked to prepare herself for every alternative, especially when the safety of her people was concerned - and the appearance of the North with still little explanation was a very grave concern.

Rosemary raised an eyebrow when Bexley requested that she speak and what she should speak of. Her small, cordial smile betrayed nothing. She didn't believe in telling her people how they should feel, or how they should behave, especially when something so significant had occurred. She was only a guiding beacon. She could only advise, try to soothe disputes, try to lead by example. She wanted her people to do what they felt was best. She only ever wanted to encourage their own capacity for free-thinking. All she could do was hope and implore that her people come to the conclusion of compassion, of practicality, of intelligent decisions, though of course nothing was certain. Nothing could be forced.

She turned her eyes to the people before them, her voice rising to an audible level, while still retaining its polite openness. There was strength beneath her tone, the will to act. If one didn't listen close enough, they would miss it. As she spoke, her eyes settled every now and again on those she recognized, those she was close to. She found it always eased any of her anxiety, kept her voice conversational. She could pretend she was just speaking to Michael, to Beth, to Teddy, to Lottie.

"I'd like to personally thank you all for gathering on such short notice. There is much to be said. So much that we, the general populous of the South are still ignorant of in the wake of this new development. My hope is that we may be properly enlightened, and that we may come to the most beneficial course for the good of all. I respectfully ask that each and every one of you, the individual, the true hearts and souls of your factions, come to your own opinions, your own conclusions, and your own beliefs about the current affairs. You, just as much as I or Bexley, are the voices of your people. This is new, possibly trecherous ground we stand on. We must keep our wits about ourselves, or we will end up acting drastically, without thought, without regard for ourselves or our fellow people. Ignorance breeds fear, hatred, resentment, pain. I implore you to be open-minded, and at once strong in your resolve. Take what you will, believe what you will. Nobody can truly make your choices for you."

She paused. A breath. A moment of levity. An unspoken word. She spoke thus in her matter-of-fact manner for all their sakes. Her people knew her feelings, but she spoke now to the West as well, though she wouldn't even pretend to have sway with them. However, she believed in the power of the individual. If her words could have any merit in the coming days, even to only one person, then to her it was more than worth the breath.

In the time following, if there were to be negotiations with a Northern representative, she would continue to be completely transparent in its regard with her people.

Rosemary looked pleasantly to the Northerners before she addressed them.

"Is there any word from the North? From your leader? If it would be possible, I would like to know the North's intentions for the future. For all present, please explain, if you would." For all intents and purposes it was a gentle request, though he earnestness was clear. The South had a right to know what the appearance of these representatives meant. They would be coming into their territories, and suspicion was the enemy of healthy relationships, if that was, in fact, what the North intended.

 

[KingofAesir]

Keone Quanah

Dark eyes flitted across the expanse of people gathered in front of the Center Oak around him. Everyone seemed a bit on edge, to him at least, and he assumed it was because of the Northerners standing quietly next to their leaders. Keone found them interesting to say the least. The man was sort of gruff, older looking by Key's standards. The young man decided then that this man was interesting. Some people just had this odd sort of air about them and this Northerner practically radiated mystery. Keone had never been the social type, but he thought i maybe he'd like to try and speak with this man.

The woman standing next to him was even more of a enigma. Younger, and a whole lot more appealing to look at, she had a sort of presiding aura around her. Keone guessed she probably out ranked the man. Keone found himself watching her a bit longer than he had the man and quickly averted his gaze away from her. Bexley was where he found his gaze locking. The Western leader explained that these people were, in fact, from the North. People past the wall. To be honest, Key had always thought it a possibility that there could be people on the other side but, to actually see them? It was still a bit of a shock. Not to mention the West girl staring at him from behind Bexley. That made the situation even more uncomfortable for him.

Bexley introduced them as Violette and Lee from a city called Khal over the wall. Keone repeated both names silently to himself and nodded thoughtfully, normal enough sounding. His Aunt Idra relaxed slightly next to him at their introduction. She'd been a bit anxious about not knowing who these people were and their names seemed to have relieved a bit of the anxiousness. Keone placed an arm around the small woman's shoulders and gave her a light squeeze, offering a bit of comfort in a moment that might've scared the poor woman a little.

Rosemary was speaking not a moment later and the young man's attention snapped to her as she spoke. Her words relaxed him and his aunt a bit, reassuring them that every thing would be alright for the time being. Keone sighed and turned to place a kiss on his aunts temple as Rosemary turned to speak to the Northerners, questioning them about their leader. For now, Keone was satisfied with the unfolding of this meeting. Satisfied to have seen and learned more of the mysterious Northerners.

Mentions: Bexley Bellz , Lee ReverseTex , Violette deer , Rosemary Rhaine , and Avalon @me​

 

[deer]

Violette Lockwood

Co-Head of Khal​

Distracted. Distractions. It was not lost on her when she found herself internally battling the turmoil brewing inside. The warmth that enclosed upon her for a moment embrace was out of character for her Ranger, as if he had lost his mind for a moment and decided to allow his temptation to take over. There was something raw and almost primal about the way he acted on his emotions than thinking things through. She was taken for a spin but the wide grin he had given her almost caused her to melt even more under his gaze as she couldn’t herself being able to process words. Within a flicker of moments, the spark she felt crawl up her spine was toned down as he distanced himself from her, his words lost in her head.

Blinking back the emotions she felt, Violette's attention was turned towards Bexley as she explained that Center Oak held the longest, ancient tree for the South, providing neutral grounds when needed. Violette wondered if that was where everything began, the beginning. The walk towards the Oak was short, but nonetheless, exciting for Violette's insatiable curious mind. Green colored her mind as she walked, moving through the ruffling of the leaves. From time to time, she stopped to touch the plant, feeling it in her hands as she felt goosebumps up her arm.

The meeting soon began as a hoard of people filed in both from West and East factions. Violette's attention was drawn towards the Oak tree, marveling at it's beauty only for another sharp pain to shoot inside her chest. She held back a wince as Lee leaned close to her, whispering. Violette focused her attention on his as a strained smile made her way towards her lips. His comment was funnier than she reacted but she couldn't help but find herself shallowly breathing as she nodded whispering back, "He would not think anything of it as his words are law - a meeting in question would not be about how to rule the land. The way they run things around here are a little different than ours. The Northern Wolf is firm in his words and would make those fear him a faction based on fear and submission - diligence. " She mused, her attention looking between both Bexley and Rosemary, gauging at the reaction of those listening. "The Western's Leader has a feisty spirit about her, like a wildfire - her words are sharp yet filled with sensitivity and emotions beyond." Violette commented, listening to her speech, hearing dominance in the spitfire that she was. Next, Rosemary was taken up to the stand and Violette listened and watched the women's countenance. She couldn't help but find herself mulling over both woman. Engaging and truly remarkable. "The Eastern's Leader has a more demure front, like the breezy winds that engulfs you - only to guide you, letting you speak for one's self." Violette observed, looking over towards Lee as a small, dainty smile appeared on her lips. "Since we are here to know the land and its people, would that not mean we need to blend in and become, as you call it, hippies ourselves, my Pirate?" Not a moment later, Rosemary had addressed them asking for clarification and more explanation of the reason for two representative of Khal to arrive in their faction, especially if there was any word from their leader. A small smile yet gentle smile gave way as she hadn't formally introduced herself.

With a nod, Violette inhaled, taking a deep breath before exhaling as she took a step forward, brushing pass Lee softly and making her way towards the middle standing between both the West and East leaders. She stood tall with confidence though there was an air of gracefulness and gentleness to her demeanor as her eyes scanned the area. The atmosphere was unfamiliar than what she was used to - indifference along with something she always carried with her - unacceptance. However, she did not blame them for their lack for better words, displeasure. She did not know them nor did they know her - a foreigner. Without further ado, she began, "Khal, known for it's year-round winter and larger animals, is a place that most people would not dare to think exist. Foreign on your tongue and even more hard of hearing to understand. We have been around for as long as you and I existed, from the beginning of the drug 'til present day and forthcomings." Violette started, gazing ahead as she looked towards those who may have been curious and listening. "The people of Khal are not quite different from you, at least, not anymore. Once out-casted in terms of the law or in terms of being betrayed, they thrived in Khal and before you today we wanted to share our existence in order to form an alliance , diplomatically." She paused, allowing the words she had spoken seep through their thoughts, her voice as clear as day as it echoed around - powerful and resilient. "Our leader, the Northern Wolf, has not sent just mere people of Khal. My name is Violette Lockewood and I am Khal's Co-Head." She stood a little taller then with pride as she continued, "While the man behind me is none other than our Head Scout. If there are direct questions, you may come to me for them. But, just as you are curious of us, it was by mere chance that our city was discovered. Perhaps it was fate, perhaps not. You now know of our existence because of someone's Bravery. You must be confused as to why we hid in the first place? Well, the answer is simple: acceptance. Would you have trusted our people when we were casted out?" She questioned, no hint of emotion displayed on her face as her tone remained calm and even, curious if anything. "However, to not cause any fear and to show that we mean no harm, we have been sent for this special case: an open line of communication between the North and South. We ask to be trading partners as our land is plagued by harsh snow while here there is warmth and sun on this side of the Wall. We have come to see if there could be an agreement among the three factions: a trinity in trading for resources." At those words, Violette stopped speaking, silently standing there as she stood upright with ease, her eyes scanning the area before her attention was drawn back towards Bexley, Rosemary, and Lee.
tags: Bellz , Rhaine , r e i , slim , shadowz1995 , nymphadora. , Cosmosis , ReverseTex , KingofAesir , neverbackdown , myst.erion , rainfall , Enzyme , @everjinx , Misty Gray

 

[ReverseTex]

Lee Danvers

Interactions/Mentions:
Bellz
deer

Lee simply nodded to Violette’s comment on The Northern Wolf’s leadership ideas. These people followed a old-world style government, suffrage apparently being a large part of it. He didn’t mind it, but it lacked in efficacy as well as a hard backbone. The South could easily be bent just by their ideas alone, seeing peace and unity being paramount. The North looked to the future, worked efficiently and without hesitation.

Snapping from thoughts as Violette shuffled past him, thankful for her to take the lead on the main speech for the North. All of her words were true, nothing he disagreed with or personally would change. Smiling lightly throughout, she was doing good. These people would listen to her, she was good with her words like Rhett was...

When Violette finished, she turned back towards the group by the tree, waiting for something. Looking at the two leaders wearily, then back at Violette, he bit his lip as he stepped forward. “I can stand true for everything Violette said about Khal and it’s inhabitants. We’re cultured people, hardworking people... I’m not quite good at this diplomacy thing, more of a realist man myself, but I do wish to add my bit.”

“Ye’ folk are down here for a reason, as are we north of the wall. We’ve survived the worst years, and it seems a golden age has arisen from these quite horrific times... Childern are laughing in city streets, folks are gathering as families once again, life has began to pick up a new type of normality. And by the looks of ye’ home, ye’ can agree with my words. But just know this, the North isn’t your enemy. We’ve been quiet yes, but that’s why we are here. To build the bridge that will unite us all...” Running a nervous hand on the back of his head, Lee spent no time retreating back towards the tree. He knew he wasn’t a good speaker, but he hoped at least his simpler words connected with at least one person. If not... Well retiring from public speaking looked to be in his best interests.

 

[shadowz1995]

Doctor Ivan Salazar

[Disclaimer- This shit gon' be short for the sake of getting to the point.]

The doctor made sure to bring his canine companion back home, lock the inner doors, and secure the quarantine entrance tightly before making his venture through the darkness. Evenings in the South was pretty much night time for the northerners. Light had a hard time finding this place and even when it did, it was for a few short hours in comparison to the rest of the day.

The snow crunched beneath Ivan's booted heel in a quick, rhythmic fashion as he took a brisk walk to where Khal was located. It was time for Sal to address the North Wolf with his findings.... and reestablish a very key component in the relationship between Khal and the doctor. He swiftly brought the handheld radio to his lips, warm breath from his lungs turning to visible fog with every word....with every breath he took. "This is Dr. Salazar. I'm goong to be entering the colony in a short moment. It's time to give you my findings, Lobo. Make some time if you are busy. This will be over quickly, as always."
​

Bellz Rhaine slim

 

[Cosmosis]

Katie-Lynn Dejenn​

Rolling a piece of old tape Katie snorted, flicking it away. "Hey Ree?" She called out. "Reeee~?" She questioned. "Wake up!" A roll of gauze was tossed towards Katie's companion in an attempt to wake her.

"When will you lemmy know what Garret brought back? I know you won't let anyone in the room but why?" The bow wielder asked curiously. "I know you were busy yesterday but why cant i knoooow!" The female whined. It wasn't early morning and Katie didn't know how long Rita was up till because she passed out herself pretty early due to the lack of nothing to do. "Also! before i manage to forget, you promised me something honey. Do you remember?"

r e i

 

[Misty Gray]

Beth Jefferson / Michael Wilson / Lottie Reynolds
Mentions: Rhaine Bellz **anyone present**
​

Mick had caught Rosemary's gaze towards him during Bexley's talk. Those beautiful eyes were once again looking to him. He was sure that by now the woman could read him loud and clear, certainly more than the others could. He figured she would see he was holding back and hopefully knew it was for the sake of peace, rather than actually wanting to. It was so hard to keep quiet that it almost pained him. He caught the subtle nod of his leader's head and was glad to know she agreed or at least supported his stance on this whole thing.

When Rosemary turned to address the East and in a way that was respectful and just, Mick sent her a reassuring smile. Life was too messy and complicated to be living under dictatorships. Everyone had suffered and fought enough to deserve the chance and benefit of making their own choices. Mick's choice was that he would support Rosemary's decision and help her as much as he could, though if he disagreed or disliked something, he would not hold his tongue again and would raise the issue with her. "If the others here in the East also wish to do so, I'm willing to give the Northerners the respect they deserve. Although cautious, I will do so with an open mind."

Lottie had been standing close to Beth during Bexley's and then Rosemary's speeches. She let out a small sigh, not sure if her opinion mattered but would give it anyway. "Bexley and Rosemary, you are all my people, because you are all people. I don't know why you grown-ups have gotta make things so complicated," she said, shrugging her small shoulders. "If I see a person that walks, talks and doesn't want to bite me, then why wouldn't I want to help them and respect them?" Lottie looked to the ground and kicked some dirt aside. "The things that killed my parents should be what we're all working together against, is all I'm saying..." she trailed off.

 

[Bellz]

Atticus Otto (Withers)​

with: Rhett ReverseTex mentions: the Doc shadowz1995
location: home ​

When his father opened his eyes and squinted slightly, Atticus shifted in his position, not with any purpose or reasoning just a nervous habit really. He bit his lip and listened carefully as his father spoke. The young boy was surprised to hear his father confirming that he was on the right path in terms of the predicament they were in. It was a trick one at that it seemed. His head nodded slightly once in understanding as his father spoke of him running Khal some day, a position he had been destined to take over since he was found by Rhett. A dull ache of anxiety in his chest caused him to suddenly let out a breath again, this time it revealed a shakiness that he truly felt about him leading the great city his father had spent time forming. He didn't want to all come crumbling down because of him.

Atticus' eyes widened in uncertainty as his father continued on to explain that he would be giving the boy more responsibilities, starting right now. His father's next questioned echoed off the walls of their home, bouncing repeatedly a few times before all fell silent. The boy looked down at his hands that he had begun to tangle together nervously, fidgeting with them as he tried to think about his father's question. His eyes squeezed shut, sending him deeper into concentration his hands slowly coming to a halt as he formulated the plan.

Opening his eyes after a few minutes, the boy sighed softly and looked to his father. "Papa, I believe it would be in Khal's best interest to go with the plan you have already discussed, with caution. These Southerners are like us yes? I mean, it couldn't be terrible to let them over the wall, to begin the merging process now." He bit his lip feeling like he was wrong anyway he tried to put it.

"I think we need to speak with the leaders of the South, come ready with our own terms and agreements and see if they are willing to comply. If we simply cannot come to an agreement then..I guess that's it. But papa, I believe force should be used only if completely necessary..." Atticus was about to say more on the subject, his little mind now full of ideas for the great city he called home, when his father's walkie went off, signaling that the Doctor was going to be in. Atticus didn't mind the Doctor though he found his work to be...odd. Nevertheless, his father seemed to have somewhat of a trust in him, therefore he would too. Looking back to his father, he frowned realizing he didn't get the rest he needed.

"I'm sorry for all the questions, Papa. I know you needed your rest." Atticus did his best to hide his self disappointment before looking towards the door and back at his father. "Will I be coming with you to see the Doctor? I can help you! help keep you awake with his boring sciency stuff." He let out a small laugh and a smile.

​

 

[r e i]

Rias Callen

[mood] tired [tags] deer Cosmosis Bellz lavendre [location] in the hospital [mentions] Katie Cosmosis Jasper deer Bexley Bellz Marlene lavendre

Rita was snoring her butt off when something hit her. She was trying to get some sleep due to being up with Marth all night. She was ignoring Katie's calls but then she threw something at her. She rises up seeing a piece of gauze on the floor and her girlfriend was the one who threw it. Rita groans. "Katie I need to sleep, I haven't slept all night. " She stretches out and looks at Katie and smiles.

"I'm not supposed to talk about Garret's case. It's special henceforth all the secrecy. I'm not about to get yelled at by Marlene just because you want to know. Sorry babe." She then kisses her softly and deeply, as she smiled and grabbed her chart. She needed to check on Marth before going to Tonto or whoever is in HQ telling them what she found. She then turned on her walkie-talkie. Sounds blasting through it. Bexley was back? Meeting in the giant oak tree. Well, damn she knows where they were going after her check.

"Go home, get change. Be sorta threatening. Meet me at the oak tree, Katie. And I will deliver on my promise...soon." Rita kisses her again as she gets ready to go and check on Marth. She talked into the walkie-talkie "Sending Katie. On Garret's case right now but will be there soon as possible. "

"Medical is easy, you know what to expect. But emotions and people are not. Alive now and dead the next day."

 

[r e i]

Garret

[mood] scared and calm [tags] Cosmosis [location] at the hospital [mentions] Marth Cosmosis

Marth woke him up. Garret stared at the broken boy as he tries to lift himself up. Again and Again, as he cries about cleaning the floor which wasn't even dirty. Begging someone not to hurt him. He was shocked and angry but he contained himself as he bends down and picks up the boy careful not to hurt him. He placed him back in bed. Trying not to hurt him too much as he covers him with a blanket and sits down beside him. Garret softly wipes his eyes with a piece of cloth. He looks softly at him knowing his next words would determine if Marth was gonna trust him or run.

"Hey baby boy? Remember me. My name is Garret. You're safe now. " He sighed as he tries to explain why he brought him here. "Umm so, you know your mistress was bad. She wasn't supposed to hurt you or anyone. When people hurt other alive people, it's not good. It's bad. She was supposed to treat you nicely. So I took you cause I didn't want her to hurt you anymore. Cause that's not right." He took a deep breath again. Trying to calm himself down.

"Marth, all this white stuff is to make you feel better. So it wouldn't turn red like that. Red means you're hurt. And hurting is bad. So I need you to try and let it make you feel better. Cause when it does, you can come home with me. Cause I want to be your dad. Can I be your dad, please? " Garret said it. He was asking him, cause it didn't really matter what he wanted. All that matter that Marth was safe and happy. That's all that Garret wanted. Him safe and happy. He would really like it to be with him tho. He could be a good dad...he thinks.

"I don't know who I was before. But I do know who I am now."

 

[Cosmosis]

Marth Flames​

'Red means pain? White means feel better?' The child thought, tensing as he was touched. Sure, the hand hurt but it wasn't like normal. Why? He knew some trick was in play but when would it break?

"I-I sawwie Mr.Gawet... The Mistress hasn't permitted I weave her." Marth said sadly. "She needs me. She said if i was good i could go out of the room again." The child blinked at the man. He hadn't really seen one before now. A flatter face than his master's, with longer shoulders but rougher hands that hurt less. He wanted to question what a 'dad' was but knew better. He hadn't the right to ask nor the permission to do so anyways.

"She knows I here wight?" The tyke asked suddenly remembering what he said moments prior. If she didn't know, Marth knew what would happen. "W-where is my bwead? I need dat!" Frantic once more, the kid tried to move without much luck and his breathing became quicker in turn. "P-pwease bwing me back Mr.Gawet. I dun want her mad at me! I did nawt tell her where i was going an she wool be upset!" The waterworks started once more, down the path they had once went through. It hurt his chest, heaving so much with the white stuff constricting it. Then the door opened up and Marth began to wail apologizes and blubbers. He was absolutely terrified and his tears blurred his puffy eyes as they went down gaunt cheeks, seeping into scabs along the way.

r e i
(Rita can be the one coming in. BTW! Just mention The Mistress told him to do something like "Listen to Garret" and he'll do it. He's still 5 after all. He's easily fooled if told the right way)

 

[Bellz]

Bexley Withers​

with: Jasper deer mentions: Rosemary/Teddy Rhaine Mick/Lottie Misty Gray Lee ReverseTex Violette deer location: Center Oak (Central park) ​

Bexley listened in as Rosemary preached about how the crowd should stay open minded in light of their new company. Bexley bristled slightly at her tone, finding its politeness out of place for the direness of the situation. She looked out over the audience and knew what everyone thought of her, Kyle and Ava were forever loyal towards her, in their eyes she could do no wrong. Looking to Mick her eyes narrowed ever so slightly as he spoke to his leader, who seemed to hold more than just that position in his eyes. She wondered what the hell was in the air to make everyone so lovesick. The little blonde girl spoke up and it caught her by surprise. Her fiery spirit and wise words brought a warm smile to the Western leaders face. Her eyes went to Teddy again and she stared a little longer than she would have liked to admit. She just couldn’t get over how much he changed but how familiar he still seemed to her. Her eyes continued to scan the area, turning her head ever so slightly to look at Jasper, who hadn’t said a fucking word to her since he arrived on the scene. His screaming was something she had grown oddly use to…the silence was just unnerving. Maybe you finally broke him. Bexley never thought she would live to see the day. Regardless of him not talking to her, she leaned in slightly placing a hand on his shoulder forcing him to slouch so that she could reach his ear. ”The bird is clearly angry and I’m sorry. But silent treatment? Come on Queenie.”Her attention then was pulled to the Co-head of the North. She listened closely to Violette and nodded her head every so often in agreement with a few points she made. Lee was a piss poor speaker compared to the graceful beauty but his words seemed to encourage the crowd nonetheless. Clearing her throat, Bex stepped up to the center, ready to adjourn the meeting and let the factions be on their merry way. ”Until any direct orders otherwise, these Northerners are under the protection of the South. A threat to them is a threat to us. Anyone who has a death wish will disobey, you have been warned. Meeting adjourned.”

SKIP
Time: 8:30 pm (30 minutes before complete take over of the East) ​

with: Lee ReverseTex ; Kyle r e i location: Safe Haven (aka underground housing) Bexley's Place. ​

“So that was basically it, good Ole Saloon. It’s not as grand as Khal, but its home and there really is no place like it.” Bexley said to Lee as she unlocked the door to her underground apartment. “Kyle I’m home!”She called out to her son as she set her keys on the side table by the front door. “And this…is my home.” Bexley said to Lee.“Uh…please sit or explore, I’ll go get the clothes I told you about earlier.” Bexley walked down the hall and saw Atticus’ old room empty. The larger bed that Kyle slept in was empty and she furrowed her eyebrows together. Relief came in the form of a sigh when he came out from her room. ”Be nice to Lee okay little man.”Bexley kissed the top of Kyle’s head before looking over at her father’s door. The room had been opened and Bex had cleaned the dust from the surroundings, but it still remained the way it had the morning her father had gotten up. Slowly opening the door, she saw the unmade bed and an empty bottle of water by the bedside. Bexley always made sure her dad went to sleep with water by the table. A picture of her father and mother still sat on the same beside table, staring at her. Bexley gulped slightly before making her way to her father’s dresser. It should have been a sin to move things around that belonged to the dead…but Bexley knew that this needed to happen. Her heart thumped in her chest as she pulled the drawers open. The scent of cigars filled the air around her and she inhaled the familiar smell. Smoked like a chimney that Clayton Withers. She resisted the urge to not lift any of the fabric in her hand to her face and take a long inhale. Her eyes stung with tears and she was ready to break after the events that occurred. She wondered what her father would think of these Northerners…no doubt he would welcome them in with open arms..a lover not a fighter. Turning to the closet, she opened the door and flipped on the lights finding a pair of cowboy boots that she thought would be in Lee’s size. Sighing, she took the clothes and boots she thought would fit Lee best before heading back out of the room, leaving the painful memories behind as she shut the door behind her.

“Alright partner, these should fit you well enough.”Bexley handed him a pair of dark pants that were a little more breathable compared to the snow pants he had on before handing him a tan long sleeved shirt. A brown leather jacket was handed to him along with the clothing and a pair of black cowboy boots. “Try those on for size, there is a room to change in down the hall to the right.”

Lower East side – 8:30pm

with: (tagging you to see if one of you wants to kinda pick up on this missing person stuff hehe)@Enzyme Misty Gray Rhaine slim ​

A noise could be heard from the dead silence of a typical apocalyptic night, a grunt groaning gurgling noise that was terrifyingly familiar. A crash could be heard following the discovery of the noise and soon a horde of crawlers were drifting towards the city of Taurus, seeking flesh and destruction in their wake. If this night were any other, it may have been noticed sooner, but the excitement the strange newcomers distracted the Easterners just enough to let the crawlers slip right past their defenses. Just over the horizon an Eastern scout patrolling the border would be able to make out a figure walking closer, the dark concealed the figure in its shadowy depths making it difficult to see. The scout calls out and the figure pauses. Dead silence haunts the night and before the scout could see exactly what the figure was—the infected, it was far too late. A lung from the creature ended the man’s life without mercy—his team awaits his response as they radio in to get a description of the perimeter.



KingofAesir r e i Rhaine deer Misty Gray Enzyme rainfall ReverseTex shadowz1995 neverbackdown Cosmosis

 

[KingofAesir]

Avalon Dalton

Ultimately, the meeting at the Center Oak had been a lot less eventful than Avalon hoped. Just a whole bunch of talking and, blah, blah, blah. I'm truth, even if everyone else had been satisfied, Avalon had left the meeting a little bored and honestly disappointed. That wasn't a good thing, she knew that, but it seemed everything bored her to death these days. Even if it had been stressful behind belief Bexley's tumble off the wall had been the most exciting thing Avalon had experienced in months. Now she was back to staring at her ceiling.

If one looked hard enough, they would begin to notice every little crack and bump in a concrete surface. Lines that shot across the otherwise smooth surface deep into it's surface particularly caught Avalon's eye. Their sharp curves and jaggedness keeping her attention locked on them as she stared up. At the moment, one line had her tracing it with her eyes over and over. This line ran deep into the grey fading concrete straight down the middle. It ran almost perfectly straight until it was a few inches from the wall above her door and took a sharp right turn and faded out after a few more inches. Avalon retraced the line again and again and again until her blinks became heavy and brown eyes darkend at least two shades, leaving them almost black.

Thoughts drifted away from the ever exciting cracks to more subconscious topics. Random memories of Kyle doing something that was particularly memorable or that one time she killed the cat this morning. That was fun. Avalon turned over onto her side and her eyes slid closed. The second blackness over took her vision the same images that always did, moved past her eyes at agonizingly slow speeds.

Darrius with a gun held to his head as young Avalon peered out from around a corner. Darrius now laying flat on the floor, a lake of red flowing from a gaping whole in his head. Police. Barely recognizble, blurry, images of herself being dragged away from her uncle's limp body. Avalon stirred, eyes flicking back and forth rapidly behind her eyelids as the images shifted. A dark alleyway with a sillouhette of a person looming just in the corner of her vision. Her body refused to move as the sillouhette came closer and closer until his face was completely visible before her. A scarred and mangled face, with a nose protruding sharply underneath blood red eyes set above a crooked smile of jagged teeth. A voice growling, almost laughing.

"You're next."

Avalon shot up in her bed, coughing and breathing rapidly. She cursed after she'd regained herself. Her knees curled up to her chest and she pushed her hands through her hair, elbows resting against her knees. Every damn time. That same dream never failed to haunt her dreams. Sometimes with the figure who killed her uncle and sometimes with Darrius himself, either way it was always the same.

You're next.

"Fuck," Avalon whispered against her hands, "Fuck."

Mentions: Bexley Bellz and Kyle r e i ​

 

[r e i]

Garret

[mood] angry and calm [tags] Cosmosis [location] at the hospital [mentions] Marth Cosmosis

Garret didn't want to lie to him but maybe he should. This mistress was important to him, no matter what he told him. So she was like a really really bad mother to him. Even though, Garret doesn't remember his parents. He suspects that he was 5 years old once and acted the same way. So he had to lie for him to trust him. He sighed as he won't like what he's about to say. He breathes in softly.

"Just Garret. And the mistress told me that she didn't want you anymore. " He sighed as he tells more lies. Right now, if the mistress came in this room. He would kill her. "So I decided to take you in as my child. Cause I didn't like how the mistress treated you. I wanted to treat you better." Garret saw him about to freak out from someone opening the door. So he took him in his arms and started to rock him back in his arms. "Calm down please. I have some food for you. If you want it? I promise no one will hurt you ever again. "

"I don't know who I was before. But I do know who I am now."

 

[Misty Gray]

Michael Wilson
Rhaine Enzyme
​

Mick had been patrolling part of the border for some time before he took a break. He'd climbed up onto an old truck where he sat tucking into an apple, slicing each piece off with one of his knives. Today had been a long day and he was ready to be relieved of his scouting duty for the night. He tried to count how much sleep he'd had in the last couple of days and only managed to come up with about three hours. How was he supposed to dream of that beautiful woman if he never shut his eyes long enough to do so? Then again, why would he need to dream when Rosemary was often right there in the flesh and taming that unruly mouth of his without even realising she was doing it.

Mick reluctantly decided to head back to patrolling until he was told otherwise. First, he decided to radio in to the scout at the other end of the border. "Axl. Handsome Mick here, what's your location? It's all clear adjacent to the old well. Requesting an update on the perimeter where you're at." Mick waited a little while for Andy to respond. Apparently, that was his name, but if he insisted on keeping that long blonde hair, then Mick was going to continue seeing Axl Rose standing before him. Albeit, a far less talented imitation of Axl Rose. "Earth to Andy. This is Mick. Requesting an update," he repeated, his voice beginning to sound impatient.

Mick climbed down the wall and straightened himself out. After trying for a response once more, he radioed through to the rest of the team. "This is Mick. Has anyone heard from Ax- Andy? He's not responding to my radios. I'm going to head towards his last confirmed position. If anyone cares to catch up to me, that would be frickin' fantastic," he drily remarked. Perhaps it was the events of the last day or so, but Mick found himself holding his rifle ready to fire, rather than his usually trusty knives. He began walking to where he believed Andy should be, rifle aimed ahead as he cautiously walked and listened out for the slightest sound...

 

[KingofAesir]

Keone Quanah

"I'll be out in the greenhouse if you need me, Iddy!" Keone called over his shoulder to his aunt as he shouldered put the screen door of the house. His boots hit grass as he strode off toward the greenhouse to the right of his home. Stars twinkled up above his head and made him smile up at the sky. Idra always talked about how the stars were so much prettier with out the lights that used to bombard New York. Key couldn't imagine not being able to see the stars.

Shaking his head, Key continued on his way to his destination. But, he would stop again just short of the greenhouse door when a small, lithe figure slinking across the entrance caught his eye. Keone's hand shot to his hip where a rather large knife sat sheathed. Stepping slowly toe to heel, Key approached the figure with wary and watchful movements. As he approached it became obvious that it was an animal, but he wasn't able to make out what it was exactly.

Until he stepped on a stick.

A raccoon dashed out from under a fallen piece of roof. Keone yipped somewhat akin to a dog as the animal jumped past him. It left a small gash on his leg in it's wake. Key sighed and looked down at his leg momentarily, thanking whatever God that was left that he had jeans or that would've hurt a whole lot more. After sheathing his knife again Key walked back around to the front of his haven and pushed open the door.

Upon entering, Key breathed a breath of relief, taking in the scent of many different types of flowers he'd managed to cultivate inside his haven. Keone strode around the small, packed greenhouse searching for any problems with his cherished plants. When he found none made his way to the back where a dilapidated couch sat in the corner. Keone fell back into it and sighed, feeling relaxed for the first time that day.​

 

[ReverseTex]

Lee Danvers

Interactions/Mentions:
Bellz

Lee had remained awfully quiet through the tour of the West, knowing this would be his new home. No quips, not retorts, just silent. Away from the snow, away from Violette... But there was a rustic beauty to it, as well as a good amount of whiskey, something he yearned for dearly. But after the long tour, they finally arrived at her homestead oddly enough. The two had only just met, and this woman was allowing him into her private life...? He knew Rhett and Atticus dearly, but he barely knew Bexley. “Nothing beats snow hun’, but ye’ place has its own beauty.” Following her inside, he immediantly stepped aside to allow her to greet her surrogate son, causing him to bite his lip, knowing the deadly truth of the world.

Giving her a nod as she disappeared, he decided to explore. After slowly walking around, he spotted a small child’s room, followed by a infants nursery. Carefully walking inside, Lee tucked his hands awkwardly in his pockets, studying the room carefully. Crib, rocking chair, the usual nursery items littered the room, untouched except by time. Resting a worn hand on the crib, he paused. Atticus had once layer here... The young curious boy he knew dearly, would be the diving factor of war... Turning around, shaken from his thoughts by Bexley, he simpered. “Thanks Bexley, sorry by the way... Imagine this is private to ye’...” He escaped the room with haste,heading to the room she had instructed that was proper for changing in.

Buttoning his shirt, a sandy long-sleeve collared style, he left the top open. Sliding on the worn leather jacket, which was slightly big on him, but was quite comfortable compared to his scouting attire. The jeans and belt were pleasant enough, but the boots... He couldn’t walk without a sound! Clunking out of the room, Lee turned to see Bexley. “Don’t give me one of ye’ damn hats. This is quite enough for me.” Sliding his signature machete into its hostler, now strapped to his belt, he tucked his hands in his new jacket. “But i’ll give ye’ props on the jacket, it’s very nice.”

Glancing at Kyle, knowing he shouldn’t be present for his words, he looked to Bexley. “I saw a fine bottle of whiskey in the Saloon, as well as a record player... Think it'd be best if you had a drink before we talk Bexley...”

 

[Rhaine]

Theodore "Teddy" Ashworth
Rosemary Borden
with/mentions: Violette deer , Mick/Beth Misty Gray , Carter Enzyme , Bexley Bellz , Lee ReverseTex

​

Nightfall hit Teddy like a ton of bricks. The sun had slipped away beyond the horizon, and so had Bexley - without a real word, nothing that meant something, nothing that betrayed one feeling. She had gazed at him for almost the duration of the meeting, and he had gazed back, unabashedly. He wasn't the best at hiding - literally and figuratively. He was a bit too big, or a bit too foolhardy, too brazen, too near the end of his rope for that. He wasn't going to pretend at anything. He'd leave that to her. She was better at it anyway, or at least she was these days. Of course, he wasn't the most observant, nor the most accurate of judges. Every time her eyes had found his in the crowd, he had looked for any inclination, a spark of meaning in the blue depths. Whatever he thought he saw, whatever he thought he felt, he was half-convinced it was his own overactive imagination - wishful thinking.

When they had parted, or more so lost each other in the crowd, he had experienced the strong urge to follow her. It was instinctual. It was what he was always meant to do. Still, even he wasn't so thick as to go ahead with the feeling without some semblance of thought. He had taken the first few steps, but the others with her reminded him of the reality of things. There was no assuredness in it. What would have been his excuse?

"I need to make sure you won't fall off anything else."

No. She'd probably be offended. Violence would most likely be the response, which he wasn't opposed to, but he felt it was the opposite of what he was going for.

"I can't leave your side until you forgive me."

Even worse. Pathetic. Overbearing. This probably wouldn't even garner violence, more like a heavy sigh, which would be much worse than having her be angry with him.

"I'm sick to death of being apart."

Wasn't honesty the best policy? Still, maybe he shouldn't be the one to bridge the gap. It occurred to him that he was really the only one in the dark. He had fallen off the Wall after her. What more did she need to know? What more could be in question on his end? She knew. She had to know.

Teddy desperately wanted a drink. Unfortunately, he was on duty. More unfortunately, he was doing a piss poor job of it. His heart wasn't in it. His mind was somewhere else - in the West, to be exact, wherever she was with whatever she was doing.

He was wretched and guilty and yearning and empty and feeling even more foolish than usual. He couldn't even mourn the chances he didn't take like a normal person. He couldn't even get that far.

His mother had come to see him briefly, along with a couple of his brothers, the ones that could make it on a moment's notice. His mother hadn't cried, but she had trembled when she hugged him. Stooping, craned over her, she had felt so small in his embrace, so fragile. His mother had always been bird-boned. The thin scent of wilted roses clung to her mousy hair.

"I knew you'd be back." She had whispered. He knew she hadn't meant it. She didn't mean much of what she said. Convenient falsehoods were more comforting. It was how she had gotten through raising her children alongside their father. Helen Ashworth had never been one to openly speak of misfortune, as long as it could be ignored within reason. So it always went.

It was cold that night. Teddy was stationed out near the North Wall, and that probably had something to do with it, but there was something more that particular hour. A chill ran down his spine. He tensed, briefly shaken from his thoughts. Teddy's gaze peered out through the dimness, his hand on his rifle, his jaw set.

The buzz of his walkie-talkie startled him. Mick's voice poured through, a bit muddled by the radio.

It was several moments before Teddy realized what he was meant to do, and he made a low sound in his throat once his usual proceeding occurred to him.

Andy was MIA? Teddy frowned. He took his radio in hand.

"Mick? It's Teddy - haven't heard from Andy. Heading your way to back you up."

Teddy started out into the night at a brisk pace, though he could leave none of his troubles behind him. This was a diversion, at least.

/

​

Rosemary was weary. The surprises, discussions, and thrills of the day had taken their toll on her. Her responsibilities weighed on her more heavily than she truly let on to anyone. With every step she took now, the threat of exertion appeared in the slight, dull pain in her chest. She kept her arms close to her body. She didn't wear the sensation on her face, though it was there a bit in her clear, watchful eyes. Vulnerability never seemed to leave her gaze, in small ways, it was always carried in her body.

There was so much new information to reflect upon, to consider carefully, to process. The North had made themselves known. They had returned their people to them unharmed. The tensions had run high, truly, yet her people had taken her words at the meeting well. Michael's assurance was still vivid in her mind. He had been so strong in his feelings even without speaking, and yet the words he had spoken were so concise. In some secret part of her, she knew that it had been for her that he had conceded so easily. There had been more that he had felt that he didn't give voice to, and it was for her that he had gone on so quickly, relented for the time being. This train of thought threatened to make her heart race, and she tucked it away. Even now, Rosemary was in the presence of the co-head of the North. It wasn't a time for thrilling and daydreaming.

She had known when she first beheld Violette that she was someone of significance. Not only in rank, but in merit, in disposition. She recognized some kinship in her. The way she had spoken at the meeting had stirred some internal response within Rosemary - the sort of response one experiences when they come upon one of their own sort, someone cut of the same cloth.

What has she known, she had wondered, that has made her so?

Violette's tour of the East had concluded, and they had found themselves in the Taurus HQ. Rosemary had taken her to a more recreational area, a place of respite. Records were stored here, books, files, mementos. Though it wasn't her "private" library, it often felt like it, as she was one of its most avid occupants.

"Are you tired, Violette?" Her kind gaze flitted up to the dark-haired woman. "I know your journey wasn't technically very long, but I am sure it must feel as if it were."

Rosemary briefly marveled at the fact that the Northwoman before her hailed from a seemingly entirely different world. She wondered what it felt like, truly. What did she think of them? The South? Though they were properly introduced now, there had been little opportunity to become truly acquainted during the tour.

Rosemary gently took a seat in a slightly worn armchair, gesturing to the other one nearby. She could practically feel her body thanking her for the small rest, her form sinking ever so slightly into the cushion beneath her weight. She let out a small breath of relief, and her hand briefly pressed over her heart. It was a mannerism of hers - an odd sort of assurance.

Still here. Still beating.

"I hope you enjoyed your tour of the East." She spoke sincerely, a small, almost secret sort of smile touching her features. "I'm rather fond of it." It was an understatement. Her hands rested easily in her lap.

"I'm not from here originally, though I don't believe that matters much anymore. There are fewer true born residents in the area than you might think. It remains a safe haven. Many of us... flew "north for the winter," when the world was lost." Her smile brightened amusedly for a moment with the phrase, before sobering down again as she continued. Bittersweetness was almost a default sensation these days.

They were all a nation of itself now. Perhaps the old days didn't hold precedence in that way anymore. Still, in the East, there was still a strong sense of the Old World. Many of the old traditions and beliefs were maintained. Rosemary felt it was important to preserve their true spirits, to not let their flames burn out. The dead had taken too much already. They would not take everything. She was determined on this front.

There was so much she wished to ask, to know of the North - their city, their leader, their people. Yet, she would allow herself to ease into the conversation before she inquired after the information she was burning to possess. Oftentimes her propriety won out over her earnestness.

It was warm, even elevated above the ground as they were.

 

[Bellz]

Bexley Withers​

with: Lee ReverseTex ; Kyle r e i mentions: Teddy Rhaine ; Clayton Withers (deceased) location: Safe Haven (aka underground homes) Bexley's home ---> Saloon ​

Bexley had been a bit unnerved when she found Lee had wandered into Kyle's room, as it once belonged to Atticus but she only smiled slightly. Once he had left to change in the room she suggested, she moved to sit down in one of the chairs in her living area and sighed to herself for a moment. She was exhausted. Her head rolled back to stare up at the cement ceiling for a moment, her eyes observing every crack or scuff mark. Her mind wondered to the meeting, to that moment before she closed it. Teddy had been returning her glances the entire meeting, but something about the final glance his way would be etched in her memory forever. A part of her broke, feeling as though she would never see him again. Another part of her reassured her that was fine. She lost track of her parts because somewhere down the line she had said to herself, It was almost 10 years ago Bex. As if she should cut him some slack now that its almost been a decade. She scoffed at the thought, almost 10 years ago or not, the pain was still as fresh as the day she left him. She had briefly seen his mother and brothers once the crowd began to break apart and for a moment...Bexley had felt utterly alone. She had lost her family, and Kyle who she loved with everything she had, was beginning to feel as though he was unloved. Bexley had tried desperately with Kyle, to show more affection, to be the mother she had once been long before she lost her baby. Her frustrations over not being able to give the kid the life he deserved haunted her every waking second. When they had been in the North together, Bexley had a strong urge to tell Teddy of the child she had lost, letting him know that he had family somewhere. But she had simply forgot about the large one that awaited him. A pain in her chest radiated as she wished her own father was around to welcome her home. To wrap her up in one of his signature bear hugs, lifting her off the ground and calling her "Sweet Pea," much like he had done the night she returned from the east for the last time.

A voice pulled her from her thoughts as Lee entered the room. Bexley sat in silence as she took in his appearance and all in one moment, Bex finally realized why she seemed to trust this Northerner more than anyone else. With his clothing on, it would have been easy to say this man resembled her father, but it was much more deep than that. She couldn't place her finger on it just yet. A small smile came to her lips as he told her no hats and complimented the leather jacket. Her father wore that jacket almost every single day for as long as she could remember. "No hats. But the jacket looks very nice on you and its much more breathable than your snow gear, especially for this warm night air."

Bexley glanced to her adopted son when Lee had, raising an eyebrow slightly as she wondered what was going through the mans mind. Her curiosity peaked as he suggested they head to the Saloon for a drink, suggesting further that she was going to need it for what he was about to tell her. Her heart thudded in her chest then and panic began to set in. He was going to explain further what he couldn't in the North. Nodding her head once in understanding, she cleared her throat and looked to Kyle. " I need to take care of a few things tonight but I don't want to leave you alone here! How about I shoot Ava a call and you can head over that way ya?" Bexley didn't mind Kyle hanging around the faction without supervision, mostly because someone was always watching. Once Kyle would agree to this, the woman would then move to hug and kiss him a final time, "Keep your walkie on okay? Tell me when you arrive, the moment you get there. Not a minute after." Her voice was stern but loving as she turned to Lee. "Shall we?" She asked before making her way towards the door.

***** (above ground)
The Saloon was empty at the moment, it seemed the excitement of the newcomers had exhausted many in the faction and everyone either turned in early or was off doing something more productive. Bexley's boots clicked against the wooden floor as she made her way towards the bar area, finding the bottle of whiskey and two glasses. "Put anything you want to listen to on the player, the music is in a couple of bins behind it." Bexley and her family had always been fans of music. Her father was adamant about having a player in most places along with a selection of albums, feeling that the music was therapeutic for such hard times. It truly was. Bexley didn't question what this would be about, waiting patiently for Lee to begin. She couldn't figure out what this Northerner would know, what he would have to tell her.

 

[ReverseTex]

Lee Danvers

Interactions/Mentions:
Bellz

Lee followed behind Bexley into the Saloon, his feet clunking with each step. Work boots functioned much differently than these things... These were loud, but no doubt comfortable due to the squared-toe. Watching as she veered off to the bar, instructing him to set a record, he nodded and made his way to the bin. The Highwaymen, Johnny Cash, James Taylor... Etta James. Picking up the worn record, the familiar face upon the record shook him to the core...

Charlie and Delilah Danvers weren’t the richest couple, they weren’t the most functional either, but they did love one another. Lee always knew that... The young boy often heard the ballard’s of Etta James and Ottis Redding late at night on the record player, giggling and laughing from his parents paired alongside. They danced for hours and hours, until they were to drunk to continue, or were tired enough to drop...
One night however, the smell of smoke from the living room awoke the young boy from slumber. Per usual, Etta James blared on, but no giggling nor footsteps followed along, causing him to investigate. Finding the ceiling collapsed in a firey blaze, just as he was preparing to run, a board soon landed on Lee, causing him emmense pain...
Leaving that night with 3 broken ribs, burn scars throughout his chest and lower back, and the final lyrics of the blues star branded forever in his head the night his parents died...
“Oh nothing, nothing, nothing in this world
Can keep us apart
Unh~ my dearest darling
I'm offering you my heart...”

“Lee...?”

Snapping back to reality, realizing he had frozen up for quite some time, he carefully slid the record back in its place. At this point, Lee thumbed through randomly, picking a country artist he didn’t recognize, and set the player up. Turning the music down to a quiet volume, he made his way to the bar in desperate need of a drink. Giving a nod of thanks to Bexley, he quickly downed the first glass in one shot, the burn barely affecting the northerner. “That record is a whole different story, for another time perhaps...” Nodding once again as she poured him a second glass, he sighed...

“Now what i’m about to tell you is sensitive information. You’ll be harboring a traitor of the North Bexley, but ye’ need to know the truth... Your son, Atticus, isn’t dead.” Pausing briefly, allowing her time to mull over the simple words, he then continued. “The caravan did indeed get raided. By rouge members of what was the beginnings of Khal. The rogues butchered the group from what i’ve heard, but Rhett Otto had arrived just before the last man died. He killed all the rogues, punishing betrayal by death, and saw that a child was covered in blood, buried in the snow... From my estimating, the man who was barely alive was your father. He told Rhett the child’s name with his dying breath... And ever since then, Rhett has adopted the boy like you have done with Kyle.” Taking a sip of his whiskey, he continued. “What makes this difficult for me Bexley... Is that Rhett is one of the best parents i’ve ever seen. Atticus loves Rhett, as Rhett does Atticus... But, you needed the truth... Because i’m ‘friad i’m the most honest you’ll get in Khal...”