#gerard la croix

Lucille was walking down the stairs to the mainhall of the Sanctuary. For the first time in days, she was feeling better, and could walk around Sanctuary again. She looked down the stairs and saw Sherry sitting by the maindoor, tinkering on something Lucille couldn’t make out from that distance. She walked up to her and tapped her shoulder.

‘’ Lost in thought, Sherry? ‘’

‘’ O-oh? Ah…no, just…trying to figure out how this radio works. I had two…I gave Dwight the second one…..Trying to see if the frequency is working. ‘’

‘’ And? ‘’

‘’ Nothing but static so far. It’s long range…..can go for miles…but it’s finicky. I will just have to find his frequency and stay on it. ‘’

‘’ You miss him? Dwight, I mean. ‘’

‘’ Yeah….I don’t know if we made the right choice letting them go….But he can take care of himself…I just have to believe that. ‘’

‘’ And…..Sherry….I need to talk. What I did…..I get it. You don’t have to talk to me…treat me kindly….Hate me all you want. It’s okay. ‘’

‘’ No time to hate you…..gotta focus on living. Not worth the effort to think of hate. I will look aside what happened and do what I can for the group. It’s Billy you need to worry about. If he….if any of them comes back….He will be out for you. Billy is not a man that forgets…or forgives. ‘’

Lucille didn’t respond, as she didn’t know how to answer.

‘’ Anyhow..I… ‘’

Sherry noticed Lucille’s hands were shaking and she was avoiding eye contact.

‘’ Lucille, you feeling well? ‘’

‘’  Just….trying to remember how many days have passed since they went. ‘’

‘’ 3. ‘’

‘’ Oh…good to know. No need to worry about them just yet, I reckon. ‘’

Lucille stood up and began to walk away, but Sherry told her to stop.

‘’ Lucille…what’s wrong? I can see you shivering. ‘’

‘’ It’s…..It’s nothing. I’am not sick anymore. It’s….It’s something else. Something I… ‘’

She seemed worried, and she quickly uttered a few words before running away.

‘’ Sorry, Sherry, but I need to go. ‘’

Sherry saw Lucille run up the steel stairs and she was gone in an flash.

Lucille ran down the hall towards her room until she suddenlt stopped and leaned against the wall.

She put her hand over her stomach and sighed. She started mumbling lightly to herself.

‘’ It’s…nothing. I’m just wrong….I have to be. I’m just off by a day or so….have to be. ‘’

In her mind, she tried to count the days that had past. But her mind was jumbled, unfocused. But then suddenly, it struck her.

Her fist struck the concrete wall with incredible force, and when she withdrew her fist, her knuckles were bleeding. She hadn’t even thought of throwing the punch, it was as if her body was moving on it’s own.

Gerard opened the door to the conference hall, with everyone from Sanctuary and Jennie walking behind him. He wasn’t wearing his coat, instead wearing a white dress shirt tucked into his formfitting black dress pants. He pointe everyone to the chairs and sat down in the director’s chair.

‘’ I’am glad you could all come here on such short notice. I know some of you have just woken up…and trust me..i’ll try to make this quick…. ‘’

Dwight stood up and raised up his hand, Gerard nodding him to talk.

‘’ Gerard. If we are gonna stay here…you need to fucking tell us what went down. Who were those guys? What history do you got? ‘’

‘’ We were a small group, of which I was the leader, since nobody else wanted to step up. We had been walking for pretty much the start of it all…surviving….dealing with everything. Like you all had to do, I’m sure. We were lucky to meet up with this small army unit. They had so much weapons….vehicles…..so much that could help us survive. They joined up as well, and we finally found our way into DC. We then….found the hotel. But it wasn’t just us that wanted it. Tuco and….his people, they wanted to take it from us…by blood if necessary. So much…so much bloodshed was shed those days….until we finally made him tuck tail and run. That is when we started to rebuild….and now we are here.  He is back now…stronger. More dangerous…..and just as rotten as before. We cant and wont underestimate him, and that goes for you all. Now….please, Dwight, was it? Sit down. ‘’

Dwight did as he asked and suddenly Maxwell spoke out.

‘’ We have any leads on him? ‘’

‘’ No. I thought he was dead….We all did. But knowing him….He’ll  be back soon. Our best bet is to take him down then. ‘’

Negan began to speak, saying that which everyone else in the group was thinking.

‘’ We are with you…but we should go back to Sanctuary. We need backup. ‘’

‘’ No. We need you here. In case of an attack, we need everyone HERE. We can’t afford….I mean….To get everyone into gear….bring them here…could take two days. Anything could happen. It is worth it…but at the same time….the risk is too huge. ‘’

There was silence for a few moments, until Billy’s dark voice broke it open.

‘’ I think you are afraid of him. You know you can’t do nothing against a man like that. Not unless you fucking grow a pair.  ‘’

‘’ Excuse me? ‘’

‘’ I’ve seen this kind of thing before. Let me make an example….Tuco…his guys….they are mobsters. They will push you for every dime you got….or in this case….ALL you got. You on the other hand….you are the shopkeeper. You will try to hold onto all that you have and you will stand by your honor, but in the end, all that will lead to is the death of everyone and all you care about. The only way you can make sure they wont come back is to make sure they can go fucking nowhere….not by standing by. ‘’

‘’ You got a fucking point there, brother? ‘’

‘’ That you will lead everyone to their deaths if you bow to Tuco’s requests….Including Aiden. ‘’

‘’ YOU SHUT THE FUCK UP!!! ‘’

Gerard’s knife then shot out from his sleeve and went across Billy’s face, grazing his right cheek, from  which blood started to seep from a thin cut.

‘’ You think you know ANYTHING about what’s going on??! YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT IT FEELS LIKE TO KNOW YOUR CHILD COULD BE IN DANGER!! YOU FUCKING BASTARD!! ‘’

‘’ Hey, hey hey, Master, lay do… ‘’

Gerard was about to stab him in the chest, but Billy dodged and Gerard did not have any chance to defend himself as…

*WRACK*

Gerard had been clocked by Billy, and he fell to the ground like a ragdoll, his glasses flying off and landing on the ground. Jennie jumped up from her chair and ran towards Gerard, her hand on her revolver.

‘’ BILLY, THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING!? ‘’

He put his hand up infront of her face just as she was close to him and stopped her in her tracks. He then looked down at Gerard, who was groaning as blood trickled down his face and neck.

 ‘’ Quiet down, Jennie.  I didn’t hit him that hard. Here, I’ll help you up. ‘’

Gerard sat up with Billy’s help, and brushed away the blood that was dripping from his nose. The punch had caused a gash to go across the bridge. His eyes were iceyblue and sharp, almost hawklike, the scar going over his right one.. Unlike Tuco however, the scar hadn’t actually damaged the eye. He chuckled suddenly and sighed, but his fist was still clenched, and he was looking down at the floor, his breathing getting heavier, as if his anger was worsening.

Billy then grabbed ahold of his shirt and stared right at him.

‘’ You need to fucking realize where you stand. We WILL help you….but don’t think we are going do everything you say. You obviously got a lock on keeping things peaceful….I can see that when it comes to actual war tactics….you haven’t got no fucking clue how to keep nobody safe. THAT is why you came to US.  You asked for OUR help. We will help you rain down fucking fire on those people. Don’t waste mine or anyone else’s time by making us fucking sit down on our asses. Are we fucking clear? ‘’

Gerard sighed and he became his calm self once more, his smile returning. Billy then let go of his shirt.

‘’ …..Yes. I suppose that is true. But you WILL stay here for the time being. You do not know Tuco. I do. Rushing head first right into his hands…when we do not even know where to run…..will get us nowhere but killed. So for now…will you agree to stay calm? As we wait for the next step to take? ‘’

‘’ I should ask YOU that, little man. And…yes, I am. I did not mean to hit you, but you needed to calm down. I see the worry in your eyes. You ARE worried about the boy. Trust in us, and he’ll be safe. ‘’

Gerard sighed and nodded.

Sherry walked out of Sanctuary’s doors, and was met with an familiar sight.

Connor and the others had returned, smiling as they walked out of the jeep.

‘’ Sure took you long, Connor.  A whole damn day? Why? What took so long? We were up all night waiting for you. ‘’

By nightfall, the outside of the hotel and the streets had been turned into a small festival. There were children running amongst the masses, and people drinking and celebrating.

Instead of lamps, they had tied up lanterns all over the buildings, so that even in the dark night, there was still warmth and a comforting light to be in.

Gerard and Jennie were overlooking the festivities from aroun the maindoors of the hotel, talking as Billy walked up towards them.

‘’ Hey, where is Jeremy? I haven’t seen that old coot in days now. ‘’

‘’ He’s not coming to the party. He’s out by the trucks, fixing them all up…..He wouldnt come even if we asked him. All he cares about is keeping everything in tip-top shape. “

” Am I interrupting something? “

” Ah, Billy, I’m delighted you decided to join the party. ‘’

‘’ Hey…Billy, how’s it going? “

” Good, Jennie. Likewise? “

” Mmmhm….Well, I'am going to leave you to it, master. I’m gonna let you and Billy talk it out. I need a stiff drink. All the buzzing and yelling is hurting my ears. “

Jennie walked off, leaving Billy and Gerard alone, but not before giving a wink towards Billy.

Billy took notice to the reddish skin around his nose and the band-aid that was covering up the gash, yet Gerard didn’t seem angered.  He was also not wearing his glasses, which Billy thought that it was probably because it would hurt against his nose.

‘’ Y’know….what you did back there, Billy…..I could’ve killed you. Truth be honest….In that ONE moment, I wanted to. But you know what stopped me to attack one you took me down? ‘’

’‘ No. Enlighten me. ”

‘’ I saw it on you. You’ve lost the one you love as well. So…I was wrong about you. You DO understand. And….well, I hope that we can still be…friends. “

” I wouldnt have a problem with that. Just as long as you remember where we stand. And…for what it’s worth…whilst I do not know what happend…and likewise, i wont go into detail about what happend to mine…not yet, not until I know you better, as it is still an open wound…i'am sorry to hear about your wife. “

” I appreciate that, Billy. I misread you before…. well, Maybe we can talk more tomorrow….For now, I’m afraid I have to entertain all guests. ‘’

‘’ Also….This is not a true party just yet…..Give me a moment? ‘’

‘’ Sure. ‘’

Gerard shouted out to the band on the stage:

‘’ Time for Eden, fellas!! Make me proud! ‘’

The music suddenly started, turning everyone’s attention to the band.

________________________________________________

Meanwhile, Dwight had been walking around the festivities, not sure what to do when he suddenly heard radio chatter. He took up the radio he had hung onto his belt and tried to find a place that was quieter.

‘’ Sherry? That you? ‘’

Dwight walked down the same street the confrontation had occurred on yesterday. There weren’t anyone there, so he could hear wide and clear what was going on through the radio. The music and the voices however were still clear in the background.

‘’ Sherry, you still there? “

(..Yes, it went static for a minute there….But..yes, It is. Oh god, Dwight, is everything alright? I’ve been so worried. Connor drove us far out….I’m so glad you picked up.)

‘’ It’s all okay as of now…..or well…Not quite. We could need the rest of you all here. Turns out… ‘’

(…Turns out what?)

‘’ Turns out there is some other group. I don’t know how dangerous they are….but we could need backup….just in case. Can you check in with the others if anyone knows the route to Hilton Hotel? We need EVERYONE. ‘’

(Sure..I can. We will need time to bring everything together….and get enough vehicles to bring everyone with us…The Bust-a-move truck is not big enough for all of us….and the other truck has engine problems.. And….well….I’ll have to check in with Lucille. But I’ll do what I can. We WILL be there, sooner or later.)

‘’ That’s my girl. ‘’

Dwight heard footsteps. He looked around, but he couldn’t see anyone.

‘’ Hey, anybody here? I can hear you, come on out…. ‘’

Dwight then reached for his gun, but he remembered that he had left both his crossbow and pistol back in his room.

He then heard someone slurring, and he looked to his right to see a woman, who was having big trouble standing straight. He could tell instantly that she was drunk.

‘’ Hey…Sherry…I’ll be right back, don’t hang up. Somebody needs help. ‘’

He hung the radio on his belt and walked towards the drunk woman.

 ‘’ You need help, miss….? ‘’

She looked up and Dwight noticed that she looked strange….sickly. Her hair was stringy and black, with a bunch of strands hanging down infront of her eyes, who were different from one another.

The left one was icey-blue, the right was dark-brown. She has a black longsleeved formfitting shirt, and very tight darkblue jeans with torn knees, tucked into black army boots. She seemed to be wearing something under her longsleeved shirt, as it made her torso stockier, but Dwight couldn’t make out if he was seeing wrong or not.

‘’ Eva…..The name’s Eva. ‘’

‘’ I’m Dwight. ‘’

‘’ Thank you….mister. I got a bit too many shots back there… ‘’

‘’ Heh, Nothing to worry about. I’m just gonna have to finish this up, I can help you back to the party soon. ‘’

Dwight turned around and began to walk back towards the party, ready to pull up the radio again when he felt Eva’s cold hand on his shoulder.

‘’ Hey, mister…..Let me show you my appreciation… ‘’

‘’ Wha… ‘’

*BANG*

Dwight didn’t have time to react, the bullet piercing his back and abdomen cleanly. He looked back over at Eva with wide and scared eyes, until the pain suddenly shot throughout his body. Dwight then fell down, losing consciousness before touching the ground. His left side was gushing out blood from the gunshot, and Eva looked down towards the radio next to him, who she could hear an frightend woman’s voice from.

(Dwight? What’s wrong!? Was that a gunshot? Dwight, please. DWIGHT, ANSWER!)

‘’ Sorry, madam, but Dwight is not here right now. Would you like me to leave a message? ‘’

(What did you do to him!!? You fucking bitch, WHAT DID YOU FUCKING DO!?)

‘’ Sigh….I’m sorry, madam, but I’m gonna hang up now. Your yelling is hurting my ears. Bye. ‘’

*click*

She laid the radio down next to him and looked down towards the lights from Paradise.

Eva then changed the frequency on her own radio that she had had on her belt.

‘’ This is Eva reporting. I dispatched a couple of guards….It’s clear from here on out….I was seen however….had to take down a witness. Are you and the others ready to begin the second phase of the party, Cain? ‘’

(We are in position. In just 2 minutes….The red sun shall rise over Paradise. Get fucking ready, baby doll.)

End of chapter 14.

Chapter 14…..is the calm before the storm that 15 will be. Eva is the girl i drew a few posts above.

Also….well, you are free to guess what is happening to Lucille.

And yes, Negan will regain plot focus soon enough. For now, I'am putting the others forward a bit, since i enjoy writing EVERYONE, and not just him.

Chapter 15 will be up soon.

Chapter 11: Heilige Lanze.

‘’ Alexander….I told you so many fucking times…No. We cant. ‘’

Gerard sighed and laid back onto the bed. Alexander slammed his fist against the wall to get his attention, but Geard did not waste one breath to get up.

‘’ Son, we NEED to bring them here. You always talk about….bringing people together….yet here you are, sitting back playing your flute all day long. Those people could be fucking starving for all we know. ‘’

 ‘’ Doubtful. Alexandria has a solar grid. They are also wellstocked from what you said, and it’s not been that long since you got kicked out. Unless all hell broke loose….they shouldn’t be in any danger. Is that not what you said? ‘’

‘’ I did. But…I’m worried. Those people were my group….I still care for their safety….even if they turned their backs on me. ‘’

Gerard sat up and looked away as he took off his glasses. He then pulled forth an red handkerchief from his pant pocket and began to polish them. He was still talking, but never giving Alexander any attention, always looking away.

‘’ I will promise you…that once we have Hilltop and Kingdom on our side…that we will bring them in as well. We are strong…but I’m not going to risk taking our people that far out into the outskirts of DC. We barely brought you back when we found you alone and starving at the side of the road…hunted by walkers…and even then, we had the whole caravan with us. We need more manpower. ‘’

‘’ Then we do we not arm everybody up? We are over 200 in number….we already ARE a fucking army, son. ‘’

‘’ Because most of us are not soldiers…or willing to kill if needed be. Most people here…are shielded. Because we need them to be. They are not built for the world outside. That is why we need the new ones. Negan….and his people. They are….ruthless…..violent…..and a perfect tip for our Heilige Lanze. With them in our group…..this undead world will soon become one of life again, one that our children may not be afraid in anymore. Don’t you agree? Is that not a goal worth striving for? ‘’

‘’ Sure. ‘’

Gerard looked back over and he had put his glasses back on.  He stood up and looked over at Davidson, bearing his smile once more.

‘’ Now….Davidson….are you going to go to the feast? ‘’

‘’ No….I’m not hungry. I’ll introduce myself to the new ones later. Enjoy yourself, son. ‘’

Negan had sat down with the others in the conference hall. It seemed to have been made into the dinner area, with a great number of tables and chairs to go around.  The food in front of them was things they hadn’t eaten in months. Wellcooked steaks with a compote of vegetables and everyone had been given a glass of icecold water. He couldn’t figure out how they could be living in such prosperity. But the scent and his hunger pushed his curiosity away, and he decided to wait before asking any questions.

Gerard suddenly came into the hall, and the people sitting around cheered loudly. Gerard bowed went to the center of the hall, and began to speak out loudly, with great affection and care in his voice.

‘’ People, I’am delighted to see you all here today. To see your smiling faces once more….it brings joy to a man’s heart. But I have news to bring….We have guests. ‘’

He pointed to the far side of the hall, where Negan and the others sat.

‘’ People, over by that table over there, sits the people of Sanctuary. They will be with us for a period of time….and hopefully, will want to work with us. As long as they stay here….I want you all to treat them like you treat one another. They are friends, not strangers. Family members, not neighbours. ‘’

They all raised their glasses up high as they shouted “ Aye! ”.

‘’ Now, friends…….i  want to make a toast….To our loved ones. ‘’

Billy suddenly stood up and in a flash, everyone’s eyes was pointed towards him. He looked around before walking quickly towards the door, slamming it behind him as he went away.

 Billy began to walk quickly down the hall towards the stairs, not wanting to be a part of the festivities. He couldn’t stop thinking about her. Everything he was seeing, he wanted to to share with her. But the constant reminder that she was forever gone felt like a searing pain throughout his mind.

‘’ You interrupted master’s speech. Go back and apologise. ‘’

Billy looked over his shoulder to see the blackhaired female bodyguard of Gerard. She was wearing an new set of clothes, consisting of an tight white shirt and baggy darkblue sweat pants, but she still wore the white sneakers and her eyepatch.

‘’ Answer, mister. You will head back, and plead for an apology, or I’ll make you. ‘’

She put her hand over her gun, but Billy then opened his sharp lightgreen eyes, glaring intensely at her. She suddenly retracted her hand, as if his mere stare had convinced her to back off.

He then suddenly shook his head in annoyment. He seemed to be in control of his emotions once more, which made Jennie relieved.

‘’ Stop acting, woman. I’am not blind. I can tell that the way you act is a fucking act. Your tone of voice….your body language….you are not bad, but your acting needs training. If you want to fucking say anything to me, tell me that in the way you really are. ‘’

She sighed heavily and began to scratch her head.

‘’’ Aaaaaah, jeeesus. You really put me in the spot, huh? ‘’

‘’ That’s better. ‘’

‘’ Fine. I haven’t introduced myself to you. I’am Jennie.  Jennie Lucioni. ‘’

She spoke in an much more relaxed tone, as if she’d been playing an completely different person.

‘’ Italian? ‘’

‘’ My grandpa was. Took his name. Sounds a alot better than Anderson. You? ‘’

‘’ Guillaume Belizaire. Everyone calls me Billy….not that it’s any of your business. ‘’

‘’ Ouch, rude boy. I’m only gonna ask you something, no need to be all hostile. Tell me, Guil…Are you a Gangster? ‘’

Billy did not respond, not even blinking at the mention, but Jennie began to chuckle, as if she had seen right through him.

‘’Funny, I normally never guess right. ‘’

‘’ So what If I’am? ‘’

‘’ Then we got something in common, Billy-boy. Gangster to Gangster. I have not met somebody like you around here before…and you’ve managed to intrigue me..but it’s getting late, and sadly, I cant investigate you further right now. Now…I will go back and clear everything out back there…Nobody is gonna ask questions…..and…If you really don’t want to be there….i’ll send up food for you later. Think of it as…an favor. One you’ll surely have to repay someday. ‘’

She suddenly leaned forward as if to kiss him, but she turned away and began to whisper into his ear.

‘’ I’ll see you…tomorrow. Good night….Rude boy. ‘’

Billy looked on in silence as she walked away. He wasn’t sure what these people were….but now he knew that not everybody in Paradise was as pure and innocent as they first seemed to be.

The sun was setting over Virginia and Sanctuary, painting the sky a fiery orange.

Lucille had fallen to sleep after her bloody coughing. She opened her eyes,  and her first reaction was one of pain, as it felt as if her chest was tightening around her heart, making it tough for her to stay awake nor breathe.

Somebody was standing outside Lucille’s door, wearing an long dark raincoat, with an hood covering the face of the person. The figure put it’s hands up against it, not sure if it should go in or not.

‘’ Come on…Fuck….I can do this…I can….Not pussying out now. ‘’

The figure looked down towards the gun she had tucked under it’s belt. It sighed and pushed the door open, and drew the gun out quickly, aiming it towards Lucille who was on her knees, wheezing for air. She looked up towards the hooded figure and smiled.

‘’ I was waiting for you….Sherry. I…I don’t have to ask what you came her…*cough* for…I already know. Get on with it, if you think you can….Come on, bitch. Pull the fucking trigger. ‘’

Sherry cocked the gun, and looked down on Lucille with hatred in her eyes. Lucille didn’t try to stop her, and only closed her eyes.

‘’ Goodbye, Lucille. ‘’

A loud gunshot suddenly rang throughout Sanctuary.

End of chapter 11.

This has been chapter 11.

It’s a warm-up chapter, as well as….a chapter meant to show new relationships forming…as well as others that may be severed completely.

We’ll see, won’t we. :3

Chapter 12 will follow this one up, and have a bunch of things that you might not expect….and some you might…hehe.

It’ll be out very soon. (Sorry for being so lazy on uploading chapter 11 on here….i’ve been sick.)

Chapter 10: Whatever you may seek….

The caravan had been driving for many hours, not stopping once.  In the one farthest behind, Negan and the others were sitting, waiting for the truck to stop and to see where they would arrive. Suddenly, the eldest amongst them, Max, a man in his 50’s who was quite fit for his age, with balding hair and a stern wrinkled face with an bushy white beard began to speak out, loud enough so everybody could hear.

‘’ I don’t like this. Not one bit. ‘’

‘’ How so, Max? ‘’

‘’ Didn’t you say he had been fucking spying on us? How can we  trust these guys? ‘’

Dwight interrupted him.

‘’ We don’t. We’ll go there…check the situation….and if it ends up we are wrong….then that’s how it is. If our mistrust is right….then we get the fuck out of there. ‘’

‘’ Unnnhg….Guys…stop the tr….unhh….. ‘’

The youngest among them, an blondehaired handsome man in his early twenties by the name of Edward started to groan in agony.

‘’ Edward, what’s wrong? ‘’

‘’ I…I think I ate something bad….My stomach is turnin…Unnhhgh….. ‘’

‘’ Hey, stop the fucking truck! Gerard! Stop the damn truck! ’’

Negan began to yell at the backwindow of the truck cab and in a second’s notice, it opened and Gerard looked in.

‘’ Why would we do that? ‘’

‘’ My friend here doesn’t feel too good. He needs to…I dunno, puke or something. ‘’

‘’ Edward, was it? How sick do you feel? ‘’

‘’ Hnnunhhgh…. ‘’

Gerard looked over towards the driver and nodded.

‘’ Mister Williams, sound the horn. ‘’

‘’ Yes, sir. ‘’

*loud truckhorn sound*

The truck suddenly came to a halt, and Gerard disappeared from the window’s view, only for the tarp to suddenly open up, letting the sunlight pierce through.

He let everybody step out, and he helped Edward get down first, as he didn’t seem in good enough of an condition to jump down by himself without hurting himself.

Negan then patted him on the shoulder.

‘’ Go and puke or something over in the forrest.. We’ll wait….just…don’t take too long. ‘’

 Edward walked away about 20 meters and then turned right into the forrest.

 Gerard walked up to Negan and gave him a pack of cigarettes.

‘’ I see on your face that you haven’t smoked in a while. ‘’

‘’ Huh? ‘’

‘’ You show irritation….And you are restless. Believe me….I’ve lived with my fair share of smokers. You learn to pick up the little things. ‘’

‘’ Thank you. I needed this. ‘’

‘’ We all need something that helps us go on. Be it a smoke, sex, food, or just the company of others. Nobody lives by being alone anymore. I hope that by showing you all Paradise….that you’ll see that, and accept our offer. ‘’

‘’ Paradise? ‘’

‘’ Heh….Just a name. It’s just a few hours….but we still need to hurry.  I hope your friend….comes back soo… ‘’

 ‘’ MASTER GERARD, WALKERS AT TWELVE O’CLOCK! ‘’

Gerard sighed and looked over his shoulder, and he gritted his teeth once he noticed it was an full-on herd, with at least a hundred deadies coming towards them down the road.

‘’ Jesus. Alright….Everybody, GET BACK IN THE THE TRUCKS! ‘’

Michelle began to tug at Gerard’s sleeve after his order, trying to stop him.

‘’ Edward hasn’t come back! We cant leave! ‘’

Edward suddenly jumped out from the side of the road 30 feet away.  But he suddenly fell badly and fell with a crash onto the ground. He seemed to have twisted his ankle in the fall, as he tried desperately to stand up. Meanwhile, the deadies were approaching quickly.

‘’ Edward! I’m coming! ‘’

Michelle was about to run towards him when Jennie suddenly blocked her path.

‘’ We leave. We are losing time. ‘’

‘’ Move out of my way, bitch! ‘’

‘’ I’am sorry, madam, but we are not staying. If you wish to be with that man in his last

moments….we will not stop you. He is done fo..*SMACK* ‘’

She punched Jennie across the face, but Jennie did not flinch.

‘’ You fucking skank, how dare you talk about him like he’s already dead?! ‘’

Jennie’s eye then suddenly rolled up and only her white was seen, as her face changed expression to one of redhot anger. Her hand flew up in the air and she wouldv’e hit Michelle,  but before she could attack, Gerard had grabbed her wrist Michelle and Jennie didn’t not try to fight back.

‘’Enough, Jennie. I’ll do it. Hand me my guns. ‘’

Jenny ran back to the truck cab and came back with an briefcase. Gerard put it down and opened it. Inside was a pair of C96 Mauser’s.

He put in the magazine’s and as soon as he stood back up, he began to shoot over towards the approaching zombies. He was taking down several of them with clean shots to their heads, the other bullets hitting close, in the necks and chest.

‘’ I divert them. Negan, do you think you can drag him back? ‘’

‘’ Yeah….o-ofcourse. ‘’

Negan ducked as the bullets went beside him and over him. He ran towards Edward, and he saw one deadie dangerously close to him. He unholstered his gun, but he was too late. Edward’s yells for helps turned into cries of pain.  The deadie was tearing off chunks of his left calf quickly.

Negan shot the deadie and then looked down at Edward, who was crying in worry and pain.

‘’ Don’t worry, I’ll carr..*PKOW* ‘’

Edward was shot right between the eyes by a bullet. Negan turned around to see who did it and saw Gerard holding one of his Muaser’s out, smoke still coming out of it’s barrel. Negan ran back over towards him, greatly infuriated.

‘’ Gerard, what the fuck..!!?  We could’ve amputated…or something…. ‘’

‘’ No. We could not. We are still hours away from the hotel. He would bleed out before even getting there, and I dont have to tell you what happens when somebody dies, right? I did it for your safet..*WRACK* ‘’

Gerard fell to the ground after Michelle had punched him over the nose.   He did not have time to put his hands up, crashing down with an heavy crash onto the pavement. Blood was trickling down from his bottom lip as he stood back up. The glasses had surprisingly enough not taken too much damage. Jennie was ready to draw her gun, but yet again, Gerard told her to stop.

‘’ No…Jennie. Stay back. I see where this one is coming from…No need to get hostile.. Michelle, was It? Edward…was he your husband? ‘’

She was trying her best to not cry, and looked away as he put his hand on her shoulder. His voice was compassionate, and he didn’t seem to be acting. Even his smile was gone.

‘’ I don’t need an answer. Your silence speaks for itself.  I’m sorry for your loss. I wish it could’ve been different….I was just making sure he didn’t suffer. I have had to see somebody close fall victim to that horrid process….and you do not want to see that. Trust me.  Now…Everybody, Get the hell back into the trucks. We will outdrive the walkers. We do not want them swarming us. ‘’

_____________________________________________________

Lucille was still looking out over the forrest line. She thought to herself that it was time to go, but as soon as she turned around, her legs went numb and she lost her footing, falling down onto the floor.

‘’ Fuck this….*cough-cough* Kuh….I…I can do this. ‘’

Her legs were so numb that she couldn’t put any strength back into them, and she began to crawl towards the door.

She suddenly stopped and turned around to lie on her back.

‘’ Dad…..What would you have done right now? Mom? I could use some advice from you too. ‘’

There was nobody besides her in the room, yet she spoke as if they were there with her.

‘’ Y’know…I just remembered….that one trip we took to Chattanooga. 4 years old….aint never even been out of town….and we travel all across the states to go to River City. ‘’

‘’ I liked it a lot. It was a pretty place. Lots of friendly people….and the sun was warm and colorful. But I still shiver when I think about what happened. ‘’

‘’ You and mom lost track of me for a second…and I went to the old Walnut Sreet Bridge. I wanted to explore….what kind of kid wouldn’t, right? Anyhow….I climbed up the railing…took a logn time..but I did it. And then it happened. One little slip, and I fell. ‘’

‘’ I survived the fall…but I couldn’t swim. I tried to reach the surface…but it didn’t fucking do shit. It was…so cold…..so dark. I felt…darkness all around me. I closed my eyes….darkness. I opened my eyes….darkness. But then I breathed again. Some person on the bridge had seen me fall and jumped in after me. ‘’

‘’ I realized you never tried to save me. You were so close by……yet you weren’t there. It wasn’t you, dad. It was…just some guy. Some guy saved me. Why? Why didn’t YOU save me, dad? ‘’

She sat up and looked up at the roof, sighing.

‘’ No answer, huh? You want me to figure it out for myself, huh? That’s why you didn’t try to save me. That’s why you didn’t try to do anything…when I met him. Making mistakes makes a person, isn’t that what you said, dad? ‘’

‘’ Well…Fuck both of you. Fuck everybody who left me the fuck behind. ‘’

She suddenly grabbed ahold of the bed frame, and she began to pull herself up. As she struggled to get up, she began to speak to herself again.

‘’ I’am Lucille. I make my own damned decisions….I don’t fucking need to be saved…I don’t need to *cough* fucking save ANYBODY. Only person that matters is ME. My happiness….MY life. I’ve worked so hard to make all of this mine….To make MY life MINE.  I’AM NOT GONNA FUCKING LIE DOWN AND LET SOME FUCKING FLU TAKE ME OU….*heavy coughing* ‘’

Lucille suddenly coughed up blood in her hands. She looked down and clutched her fists before she fell down on her knees again.

The truck came to a screeching halt, and somebody was banging the side.   Negan woke up instantly, having slept for most of the afternoon since the incident at noon.

‘’ You may come out. We have arrived. ‘’

Negan came out first, and he was speechless when he saw the Hotel. Not a deadie as far as the eye could see. The area that was outside was massive, and protected by big trucks and metal barriers. People walking around smiling and talking, reaching what seemed to be hundreds in number, and the whole air around him felt…fresh…free….safe. He looked over his shoulder to see the others standing in awe behind him.

‘’ H-how….This is… ‘’

Gerard walked infront of them and he clapped his hands, and the men and women in the trucks all went out, easily reaching 40 in number.

‘’ ..Just like how it was before, isn’t it? Hard work…..hope….belief…trust….THAT is what had allowed all of this to happen….and will allow our plan to continue. Now….ladies and gentlemen……Welcome….to the home of all those who seek shelter. This is Paradise. Here….we are free to live as we want to. Is that not right, my friends!!? ‘’

The crowd shouted in unison : ‘’ YES! ‘’

Gerard then pointed towards Negan and the others.

‘’ Excellent. Now listen up people….These are our guests. They will be treated with the respect you show one another. Anything less and you’ll surely regret it. Now…go. Tend your duties, everyone. I hope to see you all in the dining hall later. We will have to prepare a big feast for our new friends. ‘’

Everybody scattered across the area, until only Gerard and Negan’s group was left.

A portly man with a large bushy beard suddenly ran up to Gerard, out of breath and nervous. Gerard looked at him with worry.

‘’ Roscoe….Where is he? Where the fuck is Aiden? ‘’

‘’ I..I lost sight of him. I’m sorry. ‘’

Gerard suddenly broke out of his calm character and yelled out in anger. ‘’ Fuck. Fuck. FUCK! ‘’

‘’ What’s wrong? ‘’

He turned around towards Negan and calmed down.

‘’ Nothing….I’ll handle this. Roscoe, show our guests to their rooms. I’ll have to go find Aiden. Fucking damn it. I can’t trust you to do ONE thing right. ‘’

‘’ Let me help you. I can go looking for Aiden with you. ‘’

‘’ Fine. Roscoe…where did you lost sight of him? ‘’

‘’ Bottom level. I don’t know if he went down or up…I can find him anywhere. ‘’

‘’ Okay then. Roscoe, you’ll check the outside. Negan, come. By god, I hope we find him. ‘’

Gerard ran inside the hotel, and Negan followed suit.

The lights inside the hotel seemed to still work to some degree, although they were very dim.

Gerard ran quick up the stairs, Negan  wondering why he was so stressed as he ran through the halls on every level they came to. He seemed to get more nervous and unfocused after every level, shouting out ‘’ AIDEN!! ‘’

‘’ Geard….who are we looking for? ‘’

‘’ Aiden…He’s…. ‘’

‘’ Daddy! ‘’

Negan turned to see a young boy, only 6-7 years old, stand at the end of the hallway.  His hair was blonde, messy and his eyes a dark blue. His clothes consisted of an baggy blue hoodie and black jeans with white sneakers.

Aiden ran up to Gerard who knelt down to hug him and wrapped his arms tightly around him when they met.

‘’ Aiden! Oh, You know you can’t run away like that. You made me so worried. Why didn’t you stay close to Roscoe? I told you to listen to him. ‘’

‘’ I wanted to play, but he was so busy talking to the others that….Sorry, dad. I was just bored. I was gonna go to my friends…but I got lost. ‘’

‘’ I’m not mad….I’m just worried when I don’t know where you are. I’ll take you to the others….but promise me that you’ll never leave Roscoe’s line of sight again when I’m not here.  ‘’

‘’ Yes, daddy….I wont. Promise. ‘’

‘’  That’s what I like to hear. ‘’

‘’ Daddy….who is that? ‘’

‘’ Oh, Aiden, this is Negan. He and his friends will be staying here for a while. Negan, this is Aiden. My son. ‘’

‘’ Uhmm…Hello. ‘’

‘’ Aiden, Come here. Let’s see if your old man is still as strong he used to be.  ‘’

Gerard stood back up and he now had Aiden sitting on his shoulders.

‘’ Aiden, have you been eating sweets when I was gone? ‘’

‘’ NO! ‘’

*chuckle* ‘’ Oh, son. “

‘’ Well…Negan, You have not eaten yet, right? Come, we’ll all go and get something to ea… ‘’

‘’ Mommy! ‘’

Gerard knelt down and let Aiden go and as soon as he reached the floor, he ran over and hugged Jennie. She hugged him back, and she looked back up at Gerard, smiling.

 ‘’ Jennie….Have everybody  settled in? ‘’

‘’ Yes, Gerard. The guests are in their rooms, and the others are keeping to their duties. ‘’

‘’ Good. Jennie, take Aiden and Negan back to the dining hall….I have something to attend to. Sorry I cant come to eat with you…but I will be with you all later. Jennie, tell the others to begin the feast without me.  ‘’

‘’ Is it him?  Shall I tell him to wait until later?‘’

‘’ No need to worry, Jennie. I got this. I’ll be back before the feast is over. You take Negan and Aiden with you….Sorry that I cant be a better host…but I need to deal with this. ‘’

He waved goodbye to Negan and the others, and turned away towards the stairs. He walked all the way to the top of the hotel.  He went along the hall, until he came to the suite in the middle. He went inside and as soon as he went inside, he went to the window. He could see for miles. He looked down, and saw his people rejoicing and living in happiness. He smiled as he saw the sun shine bright over the horizon.

Gerard looked over towards his bed, and a number of flutes of various models laid around it. He walked over, sat own and picked up his shakuhachi, and the melody that he began to play was that of the Lonely Shepard.

He stopped as he heard knocking on the door. He did not bother to say come in, as the door opened before he could say anything anyhow.

The old man that stepped in had wild unruly grey hair with a big mustache to match. He has emerald green eyes and an wrinkled, toughened face. He wore a loose orange dress-shirt as well as tattered blue jeans tucked into matted black oxfords.

‘’ Davidson….what a surprise to see you here. ‘’

‘’ You told me you had something to say….But I had already went away with the others before you could say it…..So….Please, tell me what you wanted to tell me yesterday. ‘’

‘’ Sorry to interrupt…..but….son… I need to talk to you about bringing….THEM here. ‘’

‘’ Alexander….‘’

End of chapter 10.

This is more of a warmup chapter….next one will have more development from more characters.

Most of the focus is on Gerard. And….I like writing him, and he will have some really good prescence in the future.

Alexander Davidson is also introduced. Yes…THAT Davidson. Also a character I enjoy writing. He will have a large role in the future.

Lucille also gets a moment….by herself.

And the song Gerard plays is this one.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qsgBF7ZIsk

Sorry for being so late with updates. :p

The sun was beginning to set, and it was peace and quiet in the Sanctuary. Most were keeping to their duties, whilst others were already in bed.  There were two people in particular sitting on a pair of chairs that brought attention to them, mostly by the groaning.

Negan was breathing heavily in discomfort as Carson was wrapping his chest with medical tape.

 ‘’ Negan…..The rib wasn’t snapped off completely. You are gonna have some chest pains for a few days..but you should be alright in no time. ‘’

‘’ Thank you, Carson. Glad somebody other than…her, knew medical stuff around here. Who taught you? ‘’

‘’ My brother. I don’t really know where he is now…but these things sure come in handy every once in a while. ‘’

They were interrupted by Sherry and Dwight’s sudden arrival. She seemed worried and called out to Negan, who looked away as soon as he heard the question.

‘’ Negan….Where is Billy? You said you would bring him back. ‘’

‘’ We’ll know soon enough, Sherry. Please….Leave me be for a bit….I need to thi…. ‘’

*BANG*

‘’ Who’s shooting?! ‘’

‘’ It’s Billy…he finally decided. Jesus..I didn’t think he would actually d… ‘’

*BANG* *BANG* *BANG*

‘’ What the hell….Dwight, you are coming with me. That was more than one shot…something’s off. ‘’

Dwight and Negan aimed his crossbow up as soon as they got out, but  he pointed it down as soon as they saw the man coming towards them. It was Billy. His shirt was bloodied, but he had not bitemarks or wounds of his own. His face was like that of a statue, devoid of any expression, yet his eyes were giving off an grim bottomless glare.

‘’ Deadies….they came….to the grave site….I…I couldn’t do it. I fled. I’m not gonna fucking end my days at the edge of a gun. Negan…I….I fucked up. I didn’t mean to… ‘’

He handed the Blackhawk back to Negan. He opened the chamber and noticed there was only 2 shots left, he holstered it and sighed.

‘’ Just….Just get back in. We’ll ta….Hmm? ‘’

Negan suddenly looked out towards the horizon and took up his gun again. The others looked on in confusion.

‘’ Guys….get back inside. All of you. ‘’

‘’ Why? ‘’

‘’ Something’s coming. Can’t you hear it? Sounds like a bunch of trucks. I’m not taking any chances, get back inside. Billy, you keep check on the inside….I’m gonna talk to these guys….or take down as many as I can before getting back in. ‘’

They all ran in just as the caravan came down the horizon. It only took the caravan a minute to get down to the Sanctuary wall.

Negan had expected 2-3 trucks at the most, but what he saw coming up was not that number, it was doubledigits.  He saw 4 Military trucks, 2 Humvee’s with turrets and about 5 pickups with boltedon armor plating covering them. The leading Humvee as well as a large armytruck drove up to Negan through the open path, parking 4 meters away from him.. The passenger door opened on the Humvee, and the man that came out wore a  dark blue coat with a creamcolored furtrimmed collar. Under it, he wore a loose black dress-shirt and skinny black jeans tucked into steeltoed army boots..  His hair was blonde and cut short on the sides, but black and spiky at the top in an odd faux-hawk like cut.. His eyes were completely shielded behind a pair of orange tinted glasses as a long and thin scar crossed over the right eye, and his face was set in a smile, although Negan could not tell if it was false or genuine.

‘’ Who the fuck are you? ‘’

Negan aimed his Blackhawk towards the man’s head, showing no fear in the face of the turret or the manpower infront of him.

The blonde man then walked up to Negan, bowing before speaking. He seemed unusually calm, despite the gun aimed at his head.

‘’ Hello, friend. My name is Gerard La Croix. I came here to speak with Lucille. Is she there? ‘’

Negan cocked the gun and his finger was gently touching the trigger. Gerard however still did not seem threatened.

‘’ I don’t know who you are talking about. Leave. ‘’

‘’ Slim, fit girl? Brown hair…Mohawk….dresses like a British punker….wields a baseball bat? Curses like 5 sailors? You have not seen her? ‘’

‘’ No. ‘’

‘’ Hmm…that’s too bad. Drove all these miles for nothing….but it’s odd…My men told me Negan and Lucille were close friends. But they must have been mistaken then. Unless you are a bad fucking liar, friend. Even without these glasses, I can tell that you are speaking bullshit. My men have even seen you two getting…mighty close and personal. Right up there on that roof. Sadly…you took one of them out. But…I’am a very forgiving person…if I’am given something in return. Let me talk to Luc… ‘’

Negan lowered his gun and grabbed ahold of Gerard’s collar pulling him forward.

‘’Let’s rewind…You mean you have spied on us? ‘’

‘’ No…or…well, even though it sounds rude…yes. Just making sure you guys are good people. You don’t come into somebody’s frontlawn without knowing atleast the person’s name. ‘’

‘’ Why the fuck would I trust somebody who spied on us? I should shoot you right now. ‘’

Negan suddenly looked up and saw about 9 men pointing assault rifles towards him, and the turret on the Hummer was now being controlled by one man.

‘’ Well, you might blow my head off….but what you see on that truck there…alongside the rifles…is a PKM. It will tear a man apart in less then seconds.  So…let’s be civil….and….invite us in. Unless you want to die. ‘’

‘’ They wont shoot me. They’d hit you as well. ‘’

‘’ True, unless you shoot me first. Because my orders are that If I go down….they are free to empty their magazines into whatever…or whoever is standing in their way….but let’s not let it come to that, hmm? ‘’

‘’ Fine….tell your men to point those fucking rifles someplace else. ‘’

‘’ You heard the nice man, stand down, people. Anyhow….now… I’am not here to cause discord between anyone. I’am here to ask you to join me. ‘’

‘’ You’ll have to explain in detail later. I’ll let you in….But your friends are staying out here. I’m not risking my people’s wellbeing by letting those fuckers with their machineguns come in. ‘’

‘’ Fine. But I will need some guarantee of safety other than your word…so…*fwii-iiiiiiiiiiiiiiii* ‘’

A slim women came out on the driver’s side at the sound of his whistle. Her skin was pale and she had long black hair that was incredibly wavy, and her face was adorned with a number of piercings, even more than Lucille. She also had a number of cuts and scars going across it, as well as a eyepatch with three straps over her left eye. Her expression was taciturn and calm. Her outfit consisted of a tightfitting midriff biker jacket with only a skinfitting white v-necked tanktop under it, and tight lightblue jeans with black sneakers.

‘’ I’ll have my Jennie with me. That way, I’ll be sure that I will not be harmed. ‘’

Negan opened the door and let them both in. As soon as Gerard walked in, everybody in the Sanctuary stared at him.  Negan walked up in front of them and waved a signal to everybody to stand down.

‘’ So…Can when can we talk about the offer? ‘’

‘’ Wait until we get to her. She’ll have to decide….or atleast help me make the decision. ‘’

Negan began to walk up the iron stairs, and Gerard and Jennie followed after. Gerard was acting very friendly towards him, but Negan kept brushing him off, not even looking back to speak at him.

‘’ Oh, so Lucille isn’t the leader? ‘’

They continued talking as they walked down the hall to her room.

‘’ It’s…fuck, it’s nothing I’m gonna talk about. But…yes, As of now, the sanctuary answers to my call…since….She is sick right now… you can talk to her….but only for a minute or so. And I will be in there. Not gonna let anybody be in that room alone with her….Wait…there’s the room. I’ll go in firs… ‘’

Gerard was already at the door before he could finish his sentence, and Negan was about to tell him to stop, but too late. He had already walked into the room. He looked to his left and saw the shocked Lucille sitting up in her bed looking towards him.

‘’ Ah, You must be Lucille. Pleased to mee…   ‘’

Lucille took her Mateba Autorevolver from the bedtable next to her and aimed it at Gerard who lifted his hands into the air, but it was clear he was still not threatened by it. She then saw Negan and a women she had never seen before enter after him.

 ‘’ Negan…who the fuck is this? ‘’

‘’ I’am Gerard La Croix.  I’am the leader of the Seekers. ‘’

‘’ The who? Who the fuck *cough* are you guys?‘’

Lucille then aimed her gun towards Jennie, who was holding her hand over her own holster. Gerard noticed it and waved with his hand, and Jennie nodded,  withdrew her hand and backed away.

‘’ Seekers. We seek to recreate society. And the only way to do that is to create a force stronger than that of any undead horde. We seek to recruit you into our group. ‘’

‘’ You talk big….naively big for this type of world. Why should *cough-cough* we trust you? ‘’

‘’ Because unlike some people, I have a plan. I’ll be short and to the point. We are gonna bring every community in the DC area to us….create a gigantic community, which will then spread and spread….until the undead horde is but a memory.. ‘’

‘’ You cant be fucking serious. ‘’

‘’ But I’am. We have already cleared out a large chunk of the area surrounding Hilton Hotel….and we have created an community that is closer to a small town than a safezone. ‘’

‘’ Hilton hotel. That is where me and my friends have set up…our little community. That is why we have not…met before. I’am not from this region. But my group’s network….well, it reaches well into the next state. Outposting is key. If you come with me….I will even tell you about the other community’s I know of. I want to show you. ’’

‘’ What if….*cough* we….don’t want to recreate it? What if we are fine with how things are? ‘’

‘’ Then we will be on our merry way, and we will never meet or speak with eachother again. But I don’t think you are so…..slow-minded, Lucille. You are curious. Curious about what we can give, just like…we are curious about you and your people. ‘’

‘’ We will wait ONE day. Let your…group pack up…and come with us to see what we can give. If you do not come with us…..The offer is….well, off. ‘’

‘’ We are not leaving the sanctuary empty. 6 people. We’ll send out 6 with you. ‘’

‘’ Negan…Dwight….Michelle…Maxwell….Edward….and Billy. We’ll send them. I will stay here…keep track over Sanctuary. When they come back…I’ll know my decision. ‘’

‘’ Well….that’s a shame, since I thought you out of all people would want to see this the most….But…It’ll have to do. Jennie, let’s head out. Lucille, we’ll be waiting in our trucks until the morning. ‘’

When the sun had gone down and night had fallen over all, Billy was sitting on his bed, looking at the medallions in the palm of his hand. He clutched his fist and tried to keep it still, but his fist began to shake as he tried to compose himself.

‘’ Billy….Did you hear? ‘’

Billy sighed and put the medallions down in his pocket as he looked over to Dwight.

‘’ About what? ‘’

‘’ The new guys….Lucille is sending us two out together with Negan and a couple others. Pack up. We need to get ready. ‘’

‘’ What if I don’t care about her orders? She has no fucking right to tell me to do anything anymore…and…YOU….oh, Dwight. You…You should leave me alone. Because if it hadn’t been for you…I could’ve gotten to Lucille….disarmed her…and saved Marguerite.  But you had to play both sides. That’s what you do best, isn’t it? I fucking trusted you to got MY back. Lucille did it….but it’s because of you there was nothing I could do about it. You are just as fucking guilty as she is. Do not fucking give me a order again or I’ll take one of those damn bolts and push one through your fucking skull with my own hands. ‘’

‘’ I…I didn’t mean… ‘’

‘’ I know. Fuck. Just..Just go. Please. I’ll come with you guys….But….Please. Leave me be. We can talk tomorrow. ‘’

Billy walked off as Dwight stood silently by, not sure what how tomorrow would be.

Meanwhile, Negan was knocking on Lucille’s door. She told him it was unlocked and he went in. She was reading a book, the cover so faded the picture could not be told, the pages looked yellowed.

‘’ What book is that? ‘’

‘’ Nothing special. A book my dad used to read to me….I found it in my old backpack….cant believe I still got it.  These Happy Golden Years, it’s called. Just realized how much I’ve missed reading….it’s calming. Feels….fucking weird. ‘’

She suddenly shut the book and laid it down on her bedtable.

‘’ Negan….I need to talk to you. ‘’

‘’ You….You need to be careful over there. That blonde fuck….I couldn’t read him. Maybe he is telling the truth and this could mean something great….but…If not, I want you to be careful. ‘’

‘’ Like I need to be told that. ‘’

‘’ I….I’m sorry. I’m usually not…like this. I’m used to be top dog…but now I can barely think straight without it feeling like knives are cutting into my head. ‘’

‘’ Sure. Lucille…I’m gonna get back to the others. You go get some sleep too, okay? ‘’

‘’ No. You are staying here. ‘’

‘’ Before you talk….I…I just want one more night..ONE more night with you. I…I…*cough*I’m not gonna let you go with any regrets on my mind. Because fuck that shit. ‘’

‘’ Enough. Just…it’s ov… ‘’

‘’ No…I did not mean…like that night….I’m too tired *cough-cough* for that. I..I just need to know that you are by my side…for one more night. That is all I fucking ask for. Nothing. Just that you are by my side is enough….helps me think that not everybody her fucking hates me. Because that’s how I feel EVERY SINGLE FUCKING DAY. Alone. The….the one time it felt differently….it was that night. I had somebody near me. It felt….really nice. Besides…This bed is better than the stuff the others sleep on. Have a good night’s sleep yourself for once. I know it sounds weird coming from me right now….but…You look like shit….to be honest. ‘’

‘’ Fine. ‘’

They both laid down on her bed, and as Negan laid down, he turned away from her, but he looked back at her once she wrapped her arms around his chest.  Her forehead was pressed against his back, and he could feel how warm she was. He looked away again, but a faint smile was cracking through the frown he had been keeping all day. He did not try to break awayfrom her embrace.

‘’ Lucille….This…this doesn’t mean anything…I still don’t know where I stand in all this… ‘’

‘’No….It doesn’t mean anything. I’m not ready to even consider it….but…I’m glad that we can be here…and not think about any-fucking-body else…it’s….it’s something I need to learn to do nowadays. I’m glad to know that you do not hate me, Negan. It…It makes me feel like….I dunno, glad. ‘’

‘’ Yeah…sure. Let’s just go to sleep….I need to pack up quickly tomorrow. ‘’

‘’ Yeah….Rest. Good night….Neggie. ‘’

As morning came down and the sun rise high in the sky, the 6 people that had been chosen were coming outside to see Gerard waiting side by side to the armytruck. The tarp was unbuckled and he signaled for them to enter.

‘’ I see 6 of you packed up and ready. Now….Is this final? Because You can always go back if you want to. ‘’

‘’ We have decided. Let’s get on with this. ‘’

They all went up in the truck and Gerard told them one last thing before the tarp was rebuckled and Gerard whistled loudly, and as soon as he did that, the roaring engine’s of the caravan began to awaken.

‘’ Let’s get this show on the road! ‘’

Lucille looked out from her bedroom window as the trucks began to drive away towards the horizon. Her stare was still solemn and unfocused, but there was a faint smile going across her face.

End of chapter 9 – part 2.

This was a long one….and a bunch of stuff is gonna play out in the future. 

Gerard (who'se design will be shown eventually in an drawing by an friend) is gonna be a fun character to write. He is smart, tactical and very calm. As well as very suave.

Chapter 10 will be a long and good one. I have to make it so. It’s the 10th chapter after all.

Also….I have an announcement to make. 

A friend of mine is actually gonna draw for my fanfic…and I didnt even ask him. He asked me if he could do it. Here is a preview of his TWD-style. 

http://zimovskij.dev…Negan-440462119 The most important scenes and whatnot. I'am so happy and….i feel honored. I didnt think people would like my fanfic as much as they do :3 This is making me so happy. 

I love all of you, my friends.

Part 2 of chapter 8 will be out soon.