Chapter 14: Adam and Eve.
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.
‘’ Why am this happening….God…why the fuck NOW? Fuck……Fuck…..Fuck….Why am this happening to me now? ‘’
She fell to her knees, and she felt tears running down her cheeks. She brushed them off, and wen into her room and looked out of the window, seeing the sun still rising over the horizon.
‘’ Negan, you fucker……Why didn’t you stop me…..Why couldn’t you just have stopped me…..? ‘’
_________________________________________________
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.
‘’ Meeting is over. Jennie…Negan….everyone…if you’ll excuse me, I need to go to Doc. Gonna bleed all over my shirt…Can’t have that. And….You got a mean lefthook there, brother. When it is time…in the future…we will have use of that. ‘’
Negan looked out the window, and saw that people were moving the stands around, and putting up tables and they had put up a stage outside.
‘’ Gerard, what is happening out there? Everyone is moving everything around. ‘’
‘’ The party later tonight. We were planning it way before you came here…..and it’s happening today. In all of this…..tension, I hope you will all still come down there when it is time. There will be music…dance…Food…..joy. I’m not gonna break the news about Tuco just yet….It will make everyone worried. And I hope you all will oblige to this. ‘’
‘’ We will. ‘’
He smiled with confidence and he was the last one going out of the room.
In truth, beneath the smile, Negan felt uneasy. He looked down at all of the people outside, and he didn’t see an army.
He saw lambs unaware of an slaughter soon to come.
___________________________________________________
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. ‘’
‘’ This. ‘’
He handed her a bottle of cognac, which Shery then handed over to Donovan.
‘’ We all need some refreshment….we also got some more food and junk back in the trunk. ‘’
‘’ Where is Lucille? She’ll love some of that. Cures all ailments, it does. ‘’
‘’ I dunno. She acted strange before. Not sick…just…strange. I should check in on here later. Meanwhile….get all of the others back inside. ‘’
Sherry began to turn the dial, hoping that Dwight would answer.
‘’ Sherry, just so you know, the radio wont work. Those things can only pick up from so-so many miles. ‘’
She told him to stay, and he looked back at her with confusion.
‘’ Hey, Connor…..Get back in the jeep. I need you to take me out there. Take me out as far as you can….I’m gonna try to get some connection through this thing. If we can get an connection, we can create a search net from there. You up for it? We could find out where they are….and it’ll be worth it. ‘’
‘’ …Let’s go then. ‘’
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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.
(Adam and Eve by Paul Anka starts to play)
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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.