The Zombie Zone Act 2 Pt. 04

The armored bus past a jewelry store that blared with an alarm. Zombies congregated in confusion. Some were hungry, others were horny. Whoever looted the place, though, was long gone.

Theo hoped to have seen Lorenzo in a sorry state of undeath. He muttered a promise, "He better hope we never find him."

"I'm hoping we do," Jenah crossed her arms.

"Right, but did you really have to go into detail about you and Autumn?" Tony squinted at Jenah.

"Black wanted all the details. Our love is worth sharing."

"I didn't mind," Natalie shrugged after hitting her vape pen.

Theo plucked the grate covering on the windows and snickered, "Makes sense that Hank came up with this. I'm glad he and Autumn are relatively okay."

"It's been rough," Tony stewed on all that went wrong over the two weeks.

"Once we left Opal Row, we ventured closer to the center of Hansel," Jenah connected the dots for the whole story. "That's when we spotted a military unit by the outlets. We followed them the best we could, though a bus can only maneuver so much. Then, well, we saw how bad it became and took action."

"How serendipitous," Natalie kicked her feet in her seat.

"Now we're headed to the shelter?" Theo asked. He wondered if they'd find any others. His parents came to mind, as did Snowdrop.

"Pretty much. We explored the few locations they wanted to investigate. Finding the military and rescuing everybody were the main objectives," Tony answered.

Gunfire popped in the distance. It made everybody duck, though none of the fired bullets tagged the bus.

"Gizz!" Sebastian yelled. The bus screeched as the brakes were hit. It didn't divert from the road, but a blockade ahead of them called for an immediate stop.

A hundred yards ahead, a line of cruiser motorcycles, mainly all black, and a pickup truck were in the middle of the road. Scattered around the vehicles were four men who just killed two humpers and almost a dozen biters. In dusk's low light, all the group had to see were the beams of the bus and the streetlamps.

The bus's arrival baffled the bikers, but they didn't budge. Their outfits were similar; denims, leathers, headbands, and scarfs. Their elbow pads and boots matched in spiky stud flavor. The bikers started to converse while staring.

Damian moved up next to Sebastian and peered out. Theo beat Tony to the punch and rushed up to the front. He asked, "Are those the Freaks?"

"No, the Freaks have earned their name. You'll know them when you see them," Damian visually checked the bulletproof vests beneath the attire, firearms, and one guy with a shoulder-fired launcher. "Based on the stolen military armaments, they belong to Anna Lisa's group."

"Who?" Theo was tired of missing information.

"A nasty lassie wha runs things ower at Shangri Lagoon," Sebastian helped. "They've been causin' havoc for ilka body in Hansel."

"Anna Lisa was a felon, and now is a domestic terrorist. She's killed numerous National Guardsmen for just trying to apply triage and support," Peter snarled. The hate ran deep.

Natalie tried to slide one of the windows up, but it was welded shut. She finnagled her way up behind Theo and asked, "Can we not be violent towards them? They just have a bad rep."

"Of course you favor the terrorists," the single National Guardsman with the group, Tyrch, muttered. It seemed like Natalie didn't just ruffle Damian's feathers.

"Just because you do a few bad things doesn't make you a bad person," Natalie gaurenteed.

"They commit murder," Damian stabbed Natalie with deep-seeded hate. It made her retract for once. He ordered, "Go sit down."

Natalie sighed and returned to her seat. Theo wondered if she was some kind of pacifist. Jenah came up and took her place. She asked, "Ram them?"

"Not wi that artillery. Let's try the civil route," Sebastian cracked a smirk. He opened his driver side window and braved the devils, "Hou's it gaun?"

The Shangri gang were confused. One of them, a caucasian man with a moustache and goatee combo, piped, "What?"

Name: Raymond Kirkconnel

Height: 5'8 Weight: 151lbs Age: 32

Hair: Buzzed, black mohawk and goatee

Body: Stout bowling ball

Sebastian rolled his eyes and weakened his accent, "How can I help, lads? I like the community service you've provided."

Sebastian nodded to the zombies. Raymond took a couple steps forward, "Oh, yeah, just doing our part. Making things safe. That's a nice rig you got. You heading home for the evening?"

"Aye, lad. An you?"

"Same, same. Though, we've been out and about looking for people."

"Whit interest dae the Shangri La gang ha'e in findin' fowk? I thocht ye were mair in the business o' killin' thaim."

Raymond snorted a laugh, "Only if they deserve it. Boss doesn't want to make enemies all over the place. We want to provide protection and support for Hansel and other communities."

"What a bunch of crock..." Olivia snipped.

"They are lying. Play nice. Keep him talking," Damian instructed Sebastian.

The bus driver listened, "Awrite, that's guid for us. Gie me some names an' mibbe I can help."

Raymond looked proud, "Ah, greatly appreciated. Indi, paper."

One of the other gang members brought over a folded piece of paper. Raymond unfolded it and read out the first name, "Reece Topoph."

Sebastian whistled, "Noo that's an easy name tae mind. Can't say I've met him."

"Alexandra Shader."

"Nah."

"Theodore Black."

Theo's gut dropped, right alongside a cold chill. The entire bus gazed at him with an equal amount of confusion.

"Mmm, dinnae ken," Sebastian lied. "Say, by the by, why are ye lookin' for thae fellas?"

"They're dangerous. Assholes who need to be put in their place," Raymond didn't give details. He did, though, notice the pause, "Why'd you take so long to answer that one?"

"Ah, weel, afore a' this I wis a bus driver. I believe Theodore wis the name o' one o' the lads on ma route."

Raymond stared long enough to make Sebastian and everyone uncomfortable. Then he folded the paper and pocketed it, "Nah, he's not a kid. Say! I see some movement on the inside -- what is your head count? Maybe they know, or people at home know."

"Let me ask," Sebastian didn't like the sinister tone. He turned to Damian and made it clear, "I dinnae feel comfortable lettin' them ken whaur we're lodgin'."

"Me neither. It'll only spell out trouble," Olivia warned.

"Let them on board," Damian gave everybody whiplash.

"Excuse me?" Sebastian shot the captain a crazy look.

"Trust me, Sebastian."

Sebastian leaned out the window again, "Awrite, lads! Spak tae the fowk and they're nice to hae ye come aboard."

Raymond argued, "How about all of you come out? Make it easy to see you."

Sebastian declined, "Nah, we're no the ani wi a bad reputation. I'm happy tae hear Anna Lisa is turnin' a new leaf, but actions speak lauder than words, laddie."

It rubbed Raymond the wrong way and he physically wanted to retort. However, he swallowed his words and forced out, "Alright! Fair enough, I suppose. Two of us will come on. Jake, if we die on there, blow the fuckers up."

Raymond spoke to the man holding the launcher. He aimed and primed it to fire. Sebastian grimaced, but didn't make a fuss. Raymond and Indi strutted over. Their walk made it clear they didn't want to cooperate.

Sebastian opened the bus door. Raymond and Indi took out handguns near the bottom step. Sebastian shot them a questionable look, but Raymond kept his weapon down, "Hey, no worries. We just want to be careful."

"Understandable..." Sebastian's eyes darted a couple times to the front seat of the passenger side.

Raymond just saw the barrel of a rifle tilted out the first passenger side window. When he gasped, multiple gunshots fired at once. Olivia's M4 tagged Indi's neck, Damian's handgun double tapped through the divider and downed Raymond, Peter's 5.56 went through the windshield and capped Jake, and Jenah fired her rifle from the crow's nest and clipped the fourth biker's shoulder.

Raymond and Indi immediately dropped dead. Jake's head snapped back. However, his finger clutched down and fired the rocket. The artillery went to the wayside, narrowly missing the bus, and exploding against a building's wall. Everybody in the bus ducked at the eruption. Fire and smoke plumed out into the air.

Damian stood first and evaluated the enemy position. As feared, the guy shot by Jenah was up and already taking away on his motorcycle. Tyrch swung his rifle around and took aim. He only got two shots off as the cycle revved away. It shattered the brakelight, but didn't stop the retreat.

"Dammit..." Damian hissed. Tyrch apologized, but the captain didn't bother with it. Instead, a more pressing concern were the numerous undead crawling and stumbling out of the woodwork.

The bus lurched forward and took a diverted route from where the surviving biker went. Natalie stared out her window at Raymond and Indi's bodies. She hung her head in grief, "Sorry, Ray."

"Now they'll be looking for us," Peter relaxed again to remove the pressure on his wound.

"You might want to retire the bus after this," Damian told Sebastian.

"We need tae go. If there are mair in the area, I dinna want them follaein' us back," Sebastian said, a bit rattled.

"Who are you, soldier?" Damiam asked the Guardsman.

"Corporal Harriet Tyrch, sir," Tyrch saluted.

Tony checked on the passengers' well-being. Benny did a three-sixty scan of the surrounding area to try and find any other bikers. Jenah moved over to Theo, who clung to his seat, thinking.

"Why does Anna Lisa want to find you?" Jenah asked in a hush.

"I don't know. I've only heard about her today," Theo tried his best to remember a person by that name. Even before the apocalypse, it didn't stick out.

"Leave it to a punk to make enemies without knowing," Jenah tilted her head with a smile smirk.

Theo, in need of answers, waved Damian down. The captain made his way over. Theo admitted, "I have no clue who Anna Lisa is."

Damian stayed stoic, but didn't show any doubt, "Considering how you've been nameless with us from the start, I'm inclined to believe you."

"Who is she?"

"Anna Lisa, before all this, worked for the Belledante crime syndacite. We're not sure how she escaped from her confinement, but we believe it to do with a special release program she was part of. Poor timing, really. She's attacked our convoys, fought the Freaks, and established a dominant foothold. Now, without law and order, she's another plague on Hansel," Damian labeled her.

"A beautiful monster with a lovely soul," Natalie added out of the blue. She stared out as the town zipped by.

"Birds of a feather..." Damian grumbled at the pink-haired criminal.

"What do I do?" Theo asked. Having a target painted on his back at the college is one thing. Being hunted by a terrorist was beyond his confidence level.

"Stick with us. She hates the military. We'll give her hell," Damian promised. He went back to his team.

"Dinna fash yersel', laddie! We won't gie ye up!" Sebastian shouted back, having heard and seen Theo's concern.

"Thanks..." Theo didn't vocalize. He retracted into disquiet. He closed his eyes for the rest of the trip and tried to find a memory where Anna Lisa Peck existed.

Natalie saw Theo seriously meditating and mimicked him.

The Summit Shelter was tucked on a side road on the perimeter of Hansel. Past the elementary school, as well as a boot store and automotive care, was a small opening in the treeline. A long driveway curved up a steep bank to a raised parking lot. It sliced in front of the building to give a natural drop off from buses and other transports. Cars were aligned along the sidewalk, creating a wall of metal, plastic, and glass. A double set of doors and windows faced the front. Though, the window shutters were shut and boarded from within. A church's steeple, crowned by a crucifix, topped one end of the shelter.

Sebastian drove up to one of the cars. He let them off, "Gae on and squeeze through. I'll hae tae hide the banger somewhere in the trees."

The passengers emptied out. Damian and Olivia helped move Peter and his wounded leg. Tyrch carried gear and supplies along with the six campsite survivors. As Theo's group left, Natalie paused at Sebastian. She pulled out a ten dollar bill and tipped him. She imitated his accent, "Thanks, lad."

Sebastian, flabbergasted by the show of appreciation, took the money. She jumped down with her roller skates on and swiveled after everyone. Sebastian pocketed the money, chuckled, and moved his old girl forward. He gave two honks of the horn.

The horn summoned a couple shelter survivors to unlock the front doors. The group funneled inside.

Numerous survivors littered the main room of the shelter. The words 'large' and 'open' wouldn't do it justice. It gave space for makeshift beds, blowup mattresses, and sleeping bags to be placed for nearly a hundred individuals, with plenty of room leftover. They were laid across large checkered tiling of grey and white. Wall and ceiling lights illuminated everything, easily bouncing off the polished whites and beiges.

The number of survivors present did not match that amount, though. Others were found in other sections of the shelter, divided by oblong archways. The main room made up the left half of the building. To the right, a hallway divided it and led to a set of restrooms, an office space, and a massive cafeteria.

It only took one person to see Peter bleeding to screech and alert the whole place. Benny helped deescalate by announcing their arrival. He asked for Ms. Hackney to be informed.

"Stay on guard," Theo whispered to his group. They picked up on all the unique attributes that many survivors displayed. The kaleidoscope eyes, different or abnormal skin tones and hair colors, and slight additions. Horns, tails, animal hybrids, monstrous growths, and more -- though none of them appeared aggressive or questionable.

"Lots of fun ones. I wonder if they're okay," Natalie gazed about with wonder.

"Captain, it's a lot worse than we thought..." Peter glanced at his leader.

Damian, taken aback by the sheer amount of infected, nervously cataloged them all in his memory. The protocol came to mind, just as it did for Peter and Olivia. Damian whispered, "Let's not worry about protocol for now. First we fix your leg, Norse."

"Welcome to Summit Shelter," a maternal voice called out from the divider hallway. A woman with stylish, wavy grey hair approached the group. She wore a modest linen dress that stopped midway down her thighs, short heels, and lipstick that popped. Her earrings and necklace matched with glimmering rubies. She stopped before them, evaluated their condition, and introduced herself, "I am Jane Hackney, one of the administrators for the shelter."

Name: Jane Hackney

Height: 5'8 Weight: 123lbs Age: 42

Hair: Faded brunnette

Body: Slender glass of moscato

"Damian Chaban, I'm the commander of my unit. We come from the 23rd's encampment to the south, though we were recently attacked and devestated. We have Sebastian to thank," Damian shook Jane's hand. His words caught a lot of attention. Their military fatigues started up the murmurs and rumors.

"You are a sight for sore eyes, commander. Follow me. We'll fetch medical attention right this instance," Jane's authority took hold of the group. She turned on her heels and headed for the corner of the room. Medical beds, monitors, supplies, and staff operated on a small, but helpful scale. Damian and Olivia carried Peter over. Tyrch migrated the six survivors to the side, took inventory, and kept an eye out for any doppelganger shenanigans.

Another person already occupied one of the tables. An elderly woman in pajama pants and an extra large, rock band shirt. She wore an oxygen mask, connected to an oxygen tank by the bed. Her ashen hair, anorexic body, and short bursts of coughs were indicative of a fading life. Theo's heart skipped a beat; he honed in on the woman and mustered, "Mom?"

"Theodore!" a familiar voice called from the divider hallway. An older man carrying a food tray dropped the food and drink all over the floor. His tucked in polo, weathered jeans, and slung hunting rifle hit Theo like a truck. There was a slight resemblance between the two.

"Dad!" Theo dashed over.

"My boy!" Jay cried out right as they met with a hug.

Name: Jay Black

Height: 5'10 Weight: 211lbs Age: 58

Hair: Light brown, ballcap balding

Body: Teddy bear

The reunion surprised the group, but the shelter cheered and clapped. They celebrated those who were lost and found.

"I knew you would make it, you chip off the ol' block!" Jay went from hugging to holding Theo by the shoulders. He tested if he was real with a pinch.

"Stop! You're supposed to do that to yourself," Theo flinched away.

"No, I'm wiping your doubt away. This isn't a dream; we made it back together!"

"Is mom..." Theo whirled around. His old lady didn't respond like the rest of the shelter did.

Jay became serious and downtrodden, "The situation isn't going well. The moving, the stress... she's in bad shape, son."

"Can we see her?"

"Yeah, of course! Let me... whoop, I should clean this up first," Jay started to pick up the dinner he dropped. He waved the shelter staff away even though they offered help, but said nothing when Theo lended a hand.

The rest of the survivors spread out or huddled up away from the spotlight. A few headed for the restrooms and cafeteria. Jenah and Tony hovered nearby to watch Theo interact with his dad. Neither had ever seen him so happy.

"Daddy?!" a small boy's voice reached the group.

Tony swiveled towards the call. Emotion overtook him as a small child rushed through the sea of people to him. Sporting overalls and a bowl cut, the 5-year old cried as he ran. A tomboyish woman chased after him, but stuttered when she saw Tony. She wore long, dark cargo pants, a black tank top, and a jacket with a vermillion fur inlining. Like him, her freckled expression contorted to tearful joy. Tony burst out, "Mason! Heya!"

Tony scooped up his son and they embraced in a big hug. Heya was next with her own embrace that wrapped around them all. The Fox family was reunited.

"I can't believe it... I found you!" Tony held on tight.

"Thank goodness! I prayed and I prayed. Oh! I'm so happy you're alive!" Heya cried. She riddled his teary mug with kisses.

Name: Heya Fox

Height: 5'4 Weight: 120lbs Age: 25

Hair: Black, medium length pageboy

Body: Petite, yet curvy, sweetheart

Tony clutched his family and promised to never let go. It was a marvelous moment in a dark time. The shelter celebrated a second time in a row.

Natalie rolled up next to the elf, "Where are yours?"

"Another city; away from this mess. You?" Jenah turned it around.

"I don't know; out of sight, out of mind," Natalie shrugged. She lowered her aviators and hung them on her top's cleavage. Her glossy eyes glistened from the touchy moments, "I'm starving. Wanna grab dinner with little, ol' me? I'll pay as thanks for saving us. In more ways than one."

Jenah stuck her thorns out, "I already have somebody I'm close with. Please, stop."

Natalie shrugged again, unfettered, "That's cool. Doesn't mean I can't show love and appreciation to people like you."

"Like me?"

"The good people," Natalie's goblin smile disarmed the elf. She then shot a glance at Theodore. She skated towards the medical corner, zipping by people like the wind. Jenah contemplated her mild-mannered words, her feelings, Susan, and Autumn.

Natalie pulled up and braked by Damian's group. The shrapnel from the car bomb was removed, the bleeding controlled, and Peter's leg tended to.

"Is he going to turn into a viking?" Natalie pictured the husky man with a battleax and peg leg.

Peter belted laughter, but it obstructed the bandaging process and made him twitch in pain. Damian and Olivia shot Natalie glares. She raised her eyebrows, but with an innocent naivety.

Damian instructed Olivia, "Get her away. We don't need her around."

"C'mon," Olivia shooed Natalie aside.

The pink-haired babe didn't resist and grooved aside with the soldier lady. As they passed by Theo and his family, Natalie waved, "Hi, mom!"

Olivia distanced the misfit from the medical corner, "Why do you have to be like that? Aloof, inconsiderate, and nosey?"

Natalie puckered her lips and eyes upwards, "I dunno. I'm not afraid to let the world see my colors. It'll inevitably break sticks in mud, but people like honesty and authenticity."

Olivia gawked at the candid, well-thought out response. She opted for pity, "Okay, sure, but maybe give the ones who are hurting some space. Save your authenticity for another time."

"Can do," Natalie shifted her sights onto the cafeteria, seen slightly through the middle hallway. "Wanna grab a bite? You and I can take a load off."

Olivia, visibly bothered and tired, thought about it, "Will that keep you busy enough to stay out of our business?"

"Oh, it'll busy me alright," the witch insinuated something that Olivia wasn't even aware of. Thus, both ladies headed for the cafeteria.

Theo stared at his mother, Patricia Black. She wasn't conscious, but holding her hand, Theo could feel her warmth.

He just told his father about the infection.

"That's making a lot more sense..." Jay glanced at the shelter. The numerous individuals with changes from the contaminated water were concerning. The level of safety and security lowered with the revelation, "Best not speak too loudly about it."

"Everyone needs to know. I've seen people change in seconds. Then, there are those who show symptoms and never change. It doesn't make sense," Theo thought of Autumn.

"Or they become Freaks," Jay sighed. "They're the reason we couldn't evacuate. This slime thing straight out of a sci-fi movie latched onto cars and pulled folks out like it was nothing."

"Maybe it's better she is unconscious," Theo spoke about his mom.

Jay crossed his arms and sighed, "I've already said my goodbyes a hundred times over. But, if there's anything your mother has taught me, that no matter what life throws at you, you never give up. You fight like hell, hold on, and cherish every day."

Patricia had suffered with muscular dystrophy for half her life. It broke her body down, bit-by-bit. Heart failure, breathing issues, and joint pain debilitated her. Yet, each time she welcomed Theo home or wished him a good morning, she did so with the biggest smile.

"Maybe she'll be lucky and turn into a muscular zombie Freak," Jay jested.

"You don't want that," Theo remained in the bleak reality.

"I mean..."

"I killed Susan, dad," saying it nearly squeezed the life out of Theo's heart. It stopped Jay in his tracks. Theo did his best to stay composed, "She slowly changed. She didn't want to become one. So, I made sure she didn't."

"Theodore, oh God! Not Susan! That poor girl..." Jay grounded them both with a strong grasp of Theo's shoulder. Theo had never seen his father visibly shaken.

"As painful as it was, I'd do it again if it's what she wanted," Theo said, more for him than anyone else.

Jay braced on his son, stared at Patricia, and became emotional, "Nobody should have to do that. I've lost loved ones so many times, but it never gets easier. It's a pain I would never wish on anyone."

"Has mom ever... wanted to leave?" Theo hated the thought.

"She has in her weakest moments. When the suffering becomes too great," Jay teared up. It hypocrisized his previous statement of never giving up. Theo knew when his father was being a dad, and being real. Theo knew better than anyone how much his father carried that burden. He'd been watching his most beloved fade away for years now.

"I don't want to just survive. I want to get everybody out of this hellhole."

Theo's statement impressed Jay. The optimism eased his wrecked heart. He smiled, "You've become one helluva man, Theodore. I'm proud to hear you say that."

"Thanks, dad."

Jay relaxed into himself and gave Theo a knowing glare, "You didn't listen when I told you to keep your head down at the college, did you?"

It made Theo crack a smile, "No, not at all."

They laughed a little and were able to find some reprieve with each other. Jay held Patricia's other hand now.

Damian peered over his shoulder at the Black family. Theo's dedication to his goal caught the commander's attention.

The medical physician approached Peter alongside Jane, "Do you want the good news or the bad?"

"I'm a bad news first kind of guy. And don't worry about pageantry, just lay it on," Peter responded.

"Very well. Simply put, without a medical facility such as a hospital and access to the right treatments, you're looking at permanent mobility loss. The damage to your muscles and the bone will start to heal over time. We won't have to amputate, but everything henceforth will be excruciating."

Peter grumbled, "And the nearest hospital in Jefferson was recently wiped off the map. Just my luck."

"I'm sorry, Mr. McIntyre. I wish there was more we could do for you," Jane showed sympathy.

"No, save it. We're here to help. Even if I am bedridden. Just need some rest, and with a dorky gimp, I'll be good to go," Peter stayed chipper.

Jane faced Damian, "Which part of the military did you say you worked for?"

"We're privately contracted, ma'am," Damian answered. He moved into a rested position with his hands behind his back.

"I see. Do you have an idea of when another unit will be on through?"

Damian knew it wasn't going to be good news to spread, "If you'd like, we can speak privately. Away from the noise."

"Certainly, we can use the private office. I am -- or was -- the principal at the nearby middle school. Now I am helping the shelter. Our goal is to help everyone out of Hansel. Some of my administrative skillset is coming in handy," Jane properly introduced herself.

"You didn't evacuate with the rest of the school staff?" Peter raised an eyebrow.

"No, I waited until I was the last. My husband came to pick me up, but misfortune struck. We were swarmed and separated from the evacuation team. My husband... passed away saving my life," Jane paused, reliving the terrible memory.

Damian bowed his head, "My condolences."

"Thank you. I have Mr. Croft and his son to thank for finding me and bringing me here. In exchange, I gave him a box of Davidoff cigars. He seems to like them," Jane gave a cute smile to counter the dread.

Damian tilted his head and commented, "Padrón are superior. Especially with the espresso hints."

Jane's smile turned wry. Her eyes flashed with interest, "A man of luxury. My, my."

"Just well-travelled."

Peter, not familiar with fineness, shrugged, "I don't smoke."

Jane moved ahead, "Follow me, Mr. Chaban. We have much to discuss."

Damian observed the main room before following. The campsite survivors walked about with Tyrch in hopes of finding familiar faces. His concerns about the doppelganger stayed firm.

Damian followed Jane through the divider hallway. Along the way, he spotted Tony and Heya, as well as their kid. Damian made a pitstop, "Excuse me, Tony?"

Tony turned, with Mason quickly hopping behind him to hide. The adults found it amusing, "How can I help you?"

"I'm meeting with Jane. I think it'd be good for all of us to sit down and talk about what we've experienced and know about Hansel. Having everyone on the same page will make operations smoother," Damian insinuated.

Tony was about to respond, but Heya cut in, "Would it be alright if he cleaned up a bit? I'd like to talk to him first."

Damian nodded and headed for the office. His departure meant Mason felt safe to come out of hiding. His mom leaned close to him, "Mommy needs to help daddy clean. Go find Koraline and grab us a seat, okay?"

"Okie dok!" Mason exaggerated his nod before dashing into the cafeteria.

"You're okay with letting him go?" Tony asked, a bit surprised by the long, metaphorical leash.

"Koraline helps with the children, and she's wonderful with Mason. She is a 'priestess'. Fancy, huh?" Heya playfully rolled her eyes.

"Honey, I..."

Heya shoved Tony towards the family restroom. They entered, Tony not willing to fight his wife on it. It was a standard restroom; toilet, sink, and a changing station for babies.

"Come on. Let me pamper you," Heya gestured to him to remove his shirt.

"You are too much sometimes," Tony unbuttoned.

"Tony, I thought the worst happened to you after we lost contact. If I didn't have Mason with me... I would've thrown myself to the wolves to find you," Heya displayed her fiery passion.

Tony set the shirt on the side of the sink. Large bruises were dark and yellow splotches across his torso. A few scabs and scrapes were on his elbows. Heya used a wet paper towel to dab the scrapes. It stung, but nothing Tony couldn't handle. One of Heya's hands rested on his sternum. She felt his heartbeat. Her care and touch made him admit, "I missed you."

Heya's eyes were large, bright, and beautiful. She sarcastically asked, "Even after all the yelling?"

They gazed longingly. It sparked something repressed. The distance apart and the time lost switched on their fears. They kissed. It wasn't pretty; they pressed fast and hard together. He pulled her close, she rubbed his exposed back.

They stumbled about the restroom. Clothes loosened and dropped to the floor. Tony got her down to her underwear; her arm tattoos of crashing waves and lion motifs, as well as celestial bodies tattooed on her cleavage and stomach, were on full display. Heya dropped his pants and boxers to his ankles, restricting her man since he couldn't take his shoes off. His cock stuck out to meet her thighs. She lowered to a squat, grabbed his erection, and feverishly sucked it.

Heya was relentless. She jerked and sucked at the same time. She twisted her wrist to stimulate the shaft. She angled her mouth so the head glided across different parts. Her gorgeous eyes paralyzed Tony. He gawked at the masterful oral work. She slurped more as the jizz and saliva lathered him up.

When Tony felt the squeeze of her throat, he thrusted a little here and there. She loved choking on it.

However, he tensed up suddenly, "Fuck, hold on..."

Tony held Heya's head and pulled out. She heavily panted and stared down the barrel of the sloppy, twitching cock. She expected blasts of semen, but Tony showed restraint. Only two small globules of white leaked out.

Heya seductively smiled up at her husband, "Eager, huh? You're already edged and we've barely started."

Tony caught his breath, "It's been two weeks, babe."

"It's been more than two weeks," Heya went for precision. She showed flexibility and lifted her leg into a vertical split. She propped the leg up on Tony's shoulder for balance. She tugged aside her wet panties to expose a shaved, moist pussy. The other hand guided Tony's cock to the slit and slathered the lips with the preemptive cum. Tony shivered at the sensation, but she yielded, "Pace yourself, officer."

Tony anchored a hand on her behind and pushed in. The head pressured her tight hole. Heya closed one eye and made a funny face. It penetrated and her eyes lit up. Tony's cock rammed her with hard, not fast, pumps. Her wet, hot pussy stretched around his girth.

Heya bit her lower lip the more Tony grinded her insides. He hit the right spots that sent waves up her spine. She rubbed her clit and watched her husband knead her kitten.

The heat built up in the restroom. With poor AC and a small space, it took no time for the couple to be covered in sweat. It didn't slow them down.

When Tony pulled out, cool air tickled the gape. They shuffled positions; Heya leaned forward on the sink with her panties down. Tony took hold of her motherly love handles and gave it to her. His pounds stayed hard and deep, but methodical.

The mirror framed their desires and gave an angle that both loved watching. Tony, dripping with sweat, carrying his wife towards a climax. Heya, drenched in sweat, expressed deep seeded lust for the man she married. Tony unclipped her bra and she shimmied it off. He perused her swaying breasts in the mirror and the eye-catching perky, pierced nipples. His thrusts became more energetic.

"Ahh, you're so fucking hot. I'm gonna smash this pussy like an animal... take you like the bitch you are," Tony initiated the dirty talk.

It tickled his wife's mind, "Oh, yes! Fuck your bitch..."

The hard and methodical pounds became quick, full-length rails. His head abused her womb and his balls slapped her clit. She felt her husband's power as tremors in her depths. Her face contorted at the peak of pleasure.

"Pull my hair," Heya begged. Tony knew what this meant and obliged. He grabbed at the base and yanked back. It caused her torso to arch, gave him leverage to slam balls deep, and made her enthusiastically whine. He stifled the whines by reaching around and hooking his fingers in her mouth.

"Ahh, Tony... your dick feels so hot," Heya's tongue licked his fingers.

"That's a good girl! Take it! Fucking take it all!" Tony snarled.

The heavy quakes, their sweat streaking across their curves and muscles, and his mistreatment of her tilted Heya over. It was wonderful to be held by strong muscles and to be pleasured into dumb moans. She had a thousand yard stare, enraptured by the pounding.

They weren't being a couple. They were being animals. They were messy, ugly, and in love.

"I love it! You're going to ruin me-e-e..." Heya hissed. Tony felt her silky warmth soon thereafter. He paused his motions so he could slip a couple digits over her clit and flick it. She made a cute squeal.

"I'm almost there..." Tony grunted, afraid.

"Do it... inside..." Heya flared with excitement. His delivery was punching down her front door. She clutched his member as it stiffened and twitched.

The innate fear in Tony won over, though. He pulled out just enough to slide it below her. Heya let out an unhappy gasp. Tony shivered and fired his load out onto the restroom floor. It sprayed about with volume; a fact that made Heya groan with disappontment.

Tony wrapped an arm around her stomach and straightened her up. Their sweaty bodies pressed together.

"Sorry, babe, but not inside. That's going too far," Tony pecked her sticky neck.

"I needed to feel it," Heya admitted with cold dejection. She gently pushed him aside so she could get dressed.

"Hey, don't be upset..."

"I'm not upset. It's whatever..."

The couple cleaned up using the sink's cold water. It wasn't the best wash down, but they didn't complain. The silence made things uneasy, but it was a deliberate choice from Heya. Tony never learned how to approach her when she was like this.

Heya slid her pants into place and then asked, "What do you think Jane will want you to do? I hope they don't plan on sending you out."

Tony heard the grating in her voice. He treaded carefully, "They probably want to talk about what we need to do with the people at Opal Row. They look to me for answers. So, I have to..."

"You don't have to," Heya snapped. The grating turned sharp, "Mason and I just got you back. Every day, your son asked where you were and when you'd be back. Do not do this, Tony. You can't!"

"I understand that, babe, but I have to. You know I can't just sit by. They depend on me," Tony softly argued.

His responses only made her fiery passion more riled, "No, you don't understand. The same shit happened with the army. Everyday I had to worry about getting the call."

"That's why I compromised when I came back. I got the job at the campus."

"Yet here you are again. Putting others before your family," Heya's anger mixed with fear. "Just say no. I'm afraid of losing you. I'm afraid, Tony."

Tony propped his hands on his hips and lowered his head. He couldn't find it in him to say it.

The longer he refused, the more it upset Heya. She shook her head and stormed out of the restroom, "Fucking asshole!"

"Heya, wait!" Tony followed, but when he stepped out, she was already in the cafeteria and moving farther away. He sighed, "Dammit..."

"Is everything okay?" Theo asked, spooking Tony by his proximity. Him, Jay, Jenah, and Benny stood nearby -- they were heading for the cafeteria.

"Uh, no... I mean, don't worry about it," Tony waved it off.

"Want to join us for dinner?" Benny asked.

"I have to go speak with Jane and Damian. Go on without me."

"Oh, my dad's there, too. He'll probably drag you along afterwards," Benny chuckled, much like his father. Tony accepted the destined headlock and carried on to the private office. Theo and the rest stepped into the cafeteria to wind down for the day.

At the end of the hallway, leading away from the main room, restrooms, and cafeteria, was a set of thick, wooden doors. Through the side windows, Tony saw a long conference table, multiple, ergonomic office chairs, and four people. When he entered, they all looked at him. Sebastian, Damian, and Jane were the familiar ones. The last was an older man, dressed in drastically different attire.

He sat farthest away from everyone. He wore muted purple robes, a separate shoulder mantle with a hood, and penny loafers. An additional accessory was like a suspended collar that extended around the back of the neck, golden in color. His hands were adorn with gaudy jewelry.

"Mr. Fox, this is David Whiteluck, leader of the Last Saints. Father, this is Tony Fox," Jane introduced the two.

"Salutations, Tony. Blessed are we to have more good company," David greeted with a double-handed handshake. What appeared as tattoos of a religious symbol on the back of his hands turned out to be permanent brandings of a four-pointed star.

Name: David Whiteluck

Height: 5'9 Weight: 149lbs Age: 60

Hair: Short, slicked back greys

Body: Slender and stalwart

"Nice to meet you, uh, Father," Tony showed respect. "Last Saints? I'm not familiar with that one."

"Understandable; we are but a small constellation of spiritual guides and practitioners of the arcane. Local and reserved, we believe in a more personal connection to the people and our community. The current state of the world strains our hearts. We will do everything in our power and Hers to lend aid," David explained in a way that didn't take up too much time.

Tony noticed the 'Hers' wording, "Arcane?"

"Yes, from channeling spirits to bestowing blessings and purification rituals. One might call it witchcraft, but it is about mastering the universe."

The more Tony learned, the harder it was to make sense of it. He politely nodded and took a seat next to Damian. They sat across from Sebastian, Jane, and David. The commander showed no amusement for the Last Saints.

"Where shall we start?" Jane initiated the meeting.

Sebastian held a hand up, "If we're prioritizin' information in this here meetin', I think what I hae tae share is the maist important."

Nobody argued, thus Sebastian stood up. He carried a three-ring binder filled with papers, some loose, frayed, or stained. He laid it on the table and tapped it, "Wi the toon square and campground checked, Hansel is offeecially complete."

Jane breathed out, "It's taken too long. This is wondrous news."

"That means we can move on to the next step. This is fortuitous. Excellent job, Sebastian," David solemnly nodded.

"What do you mean by 'complete'?" Damian crossed his arms.

Sebastian clarified, "A've spent the last week searchin' Hansel for survivors, aid, and hazards. Unless they're really taen away, there isnae onybody left. The only remainin' fowk in Hansel are Summit, Opal Row, Shangri Lagoon, and the Freaks."

In the cafeteria, Theo and Jay sat down at one of the many lunch tables. The meals were simple but effective; ham and cheese sandwiches with a small salad.

"Feeding so many people must be a task and a half," Theo started on the salad. He took some of the sliced ham and made bits with it. The cleanliness of the cafeteria took him out of the apocalypse and back to high school.

"That's what I thought, but they have a well-oiled machine here. When your mom and I left home, we tried leaving to Jefferson. That didn't go too well; too many zombies. I detoured over here and that's when we met Sebastian. He and the Last Saints have prevented all the supplies and goods from vanishing. That and a few volunteers go out once in a while to scavenge," Jay hinted at himself.

"Lots of run-ins with other survivors?"

"You bet. Most friendly, others selfish. We've seen some of the Freaks, but never engaged with them. Anything that screams undead we take cover and hide. Everybody thinks their tough stuff until shit hits the fan. Well, except me," Jay wryly gloated.

A lurking hunter came to Theo's mind, "Anybody from Shangri Lagoon?"

"Maybe? We run any time we've been shot at. Killing people... that's not my style," Jay ate a mouthful of sandwich.

Jenah and Benny took a seat across from the Black family. When they did, Benny's attention seemed stolen. Jay cracked a smile and teased, "C'mon, kid, you can't make it that obvious."

Benny tried playing innocent, "Oh, sorry! Just... looking at all the food. I'm starvin'!"

"Bless your heart, boy. I see you eyeballing Koraline."

"Who's Koraline?" Theo asked. An interest, based on the amount of blush in Benny's cheeks. Jay aimed his fork in the direction Benny was distracted. One of the corners of the cafeteria was a hotspot for young children. In an impromptu daycare, they were given arts, crafts, and games to play. Similar to what Susan went out of her way to do for the kids in the student center.

However, instead of a college student lending that shoulder, a different kind of mother hen watched over the kids with a handful of parents. She was some kind of priestess or nun. Her garments and accessories screamed futuristic supermodel. Her tight purple robe modestly covered everything and had drooping sleeves, except for the outer side of the legs. The cloth split at the hips and parted downwards, giving a more than plentiful view of bareskin. The jewelry around her neck and on her gloved hands appeared to be more regalia than ornament. A halo-like golden collar slung around the backside of her head.

"Is she part of the church?" Theo asked, perplexed by the unconventional attire.

Jay made a contemptuous face, "Oh-hoh no, she is with the Last Saints. They're a ministry of spiritual men and women. From what I know, they like to preach enlightenment, self-fullfillment, and freedom. They worship someone they call Mother."

"They're occult," Jenah labeled.

"Hard to tell; they seem to borrow from many other religions," Jay shrugged. "As a Christian, I am both uncomfortable but open-minded. They believe that sin is a good thing."

It raised many eyebrows, but Benny picked up for the church, "Koraline explained it to me. The Mother is in all things and grants us wisdom, knowledge, and love. To them, sins are celebrated as gifts of freedom and expression, which is why they are shunned by most of the public. Or something like that."

"Occult," Jenah summarized.

"Regardless, they've been a big help here. They make the meals, clean the building, and give services to the recently departed. Regardless of anyone's religion," Jay painted the group in a better light. "If any of you are religious or spiritual, I'd suggest going and praying. Lord knows we need it."

Theo stared across the cafeteria, opposite the dividing hallway. The entrance to the church was through a set of double doors. A long hallway with warm browns and mahogany, beautiful hanging lanterns and candelabras, and ancient religious motifs decorated the aspects. It led into the church proper.

A feeling creeped up on Theo. Like somebody was watching him. He'd had his suspicions. The small touches, the sixth sense alerts -- they always coupled with the thought of Hanover.

That feeling stood right behind him.

Theo glanced over his shoulder. In his mind, he pictured a voluptuous form suspended in the air. She always had voided eyes and hair that sprang out in all directions, like a malevolent spirit. Like before, she wasn't actually there. It was all in his imagination.

Inside the conference room, Damian's intel left everyone speechless.

"Are you certain? Even those of us without symptoms?" Jane asked.

"The exact details are outside my field of expertise, but that is what the X-Safari employee told me," Damian kept the extinction possibility off the table. It'd only muddy the water.

"I don't quite understand how that's possible," David leaned back in his chair. "How is it that people become different types of undead? What determines it?"

"The chemical product spilled into the water changes the DNA for its effects. However, the volume and mixing of said product makes such changes erratic," Damian explained the homolatta tortum drug.

Jane held her chin and imparted understanding, "Considering how much DNA humans have, the possibilities are essentially infinite. The primary effect appears to zombify people; either driven into cannibalism or a living organism's will to live via reproduction. An unlucky few gain additional properties."

"That explains why there is no rhyme or reason to it all," Tony slumped back like the rest. Heya and Mason were infected, which meant they could change given enough time or exposure.

Damian stayed stalwart, "Sitting around and dreading the end will not help. Washington remains our best bet. It will take many days, if not weeks, to travel. Thus, we have to keep an eye out for anybody acting more aggressive or sexual than usual."

"Ahh, bless... that's pure barry," the news dampened Sebastian's enthusiasm.

"Not all hope is lost," David shared vigilance. "Plagues and diseases have ravaged mankind for millennia. In the darkest hour, we must find the light within and soar out of this tragedy. If we are the only hope for ourselves, we must not falter. With our numbers and Opal Row, we can bring that great light to the outside world. And, beyond that, a requiem."

"I agree with the Father," Tony nodded. "The sooner, the better. Supplies are short on our end. It sounds like we can't contend with Anna Lisa and the Freaks. We shouldn't stall."

"I can have my constellation prepare all that is needed for this exodus. Jane, Sebastian, I leave shepherding in your hands," David guided.

"Ye'll be fine, lad, but we need mair nor ane bus. Twa mair, at least," Sebastian warned.

"The bus yard is behind the middle school," Jane answered.

"After we leave, I suggest we head for the campgrounds Sebastian found us at. Crossing the dam will be simple, even if it is overrun with undead. Beyond that will be a less congested area, and as long as we escape the electrical interference, we can make contact with the outside world," Damian stated.

"Many of the survivors at Opal Row aren't wanting to move. The whole reason we've stayed bunkered up is because they're waiting to be saved," Tony mentioned. "It may take me some time to convince them to leave."

"I'll come along," Damian offered. "Evacuating the remaining survivors is our top priority. Peter and Olivia will hold it down here."

"Theo and Jenah will want to come back, too."

"I'll tak you back ower the morra and wait wi ye there," Sebastian got ahead of the question. Tony appreciated the cooperation.

The meeting seemed to be over. However, David reluctantly added one more item to the talks, "Pardon me for a moment, everyone. Mr. Chaban, you informed us of this doppelganger. What do you suggest we do, in case it did in fact tag along into our sanctuary?"

"The only suspects are the survivors we found. My team and Tony's group are clear. We should keep an eye on those six. That is all we can do for certain," Damian became dour. "It may not be any of them. It's cruel to say, but I let you know in the case that somebody goes missing and reappears. It could be anyone."

"Let us hope not. We are so close to escaping. Such a horror would ruin everything," Jane braced against the anxiety.

"We should let everyone know, right?" Tony figured.

"For now, let us not," Jane decided. "It could cause unnecessary panic and paranoia. Let me mull over this some more and I can find a solution. I just need time."

"Thank you for letting us know," David bowed his head in respect.

The meeting came to an end. Each group was caught up. The dead of night pressed in. Damian and Tony needed to eat still. While the leaders of Summit lingered to discuss details for tomorrow, the former military men headed for the cafeteria.

Along the way, Damian did a sweep of all the people. Everywhere he looked, he saw infected individuals either cuddling up close with others, or expressing isolation. In his mind, they were all ticking time bombs. He saw Peter being given crutches by one of the medical staff. He didn't see Olivia.

Tony and him split at the cafeteria's entrance. He scanned the room, again not seeing Olivia. An uncomfortable feeling stirred inside him.

"You good, Captain?" Peter asked. He hobbled over on his crutches. Compared to being bedridden, he looked happier moving around.

"How are the six campsite survivors?"

"The corporal is overwatching them. I told him we can take turns."

"Have you seen Poprocks?"

"Not recently... Olivia!" Peter bellowed. It grabbed everyone's attention. They didn't see her pop up from any of the tables. Peter glared, "Shit, you don't think..."

One of the restroom doors opened with a startle and Olivia jogged out. She seemed flustered as she corrected her clothing, "What?! What's wrong?!"

Damian immediately went for their sign codes. Olivia gave it correctly. He went ahead and briefed them on what was spoken about. He kept his voice low. In the end, he instructed, "I'll be going to Opal Row tomorrow. Corporal Tyrch will be assisting me. It's a simple retrieval, so I'd rather have you both here. I need confidence that, when shit hits the fan, you'll handle it."

"Yes, Captain," Peter and Olivia saluted with no resistance. The trio went to eat.

They went by Tony, who'd grabbed a tray, and greeted him in passing. He did the same, but was preoccupied by an internal dilemma. He stared at Heya and Mason. The little guy accidentally knocked his milk over when picking up coloring supplies. Heya was busy cleaning him up.

"You okay?" Jenah asked. She walked up to him without him even noticing.

"Hey, Jenah... not really. Not a day's past that I haven't thought of them," Tony opened up about his wife and son. "Today's been one of the only bright days, all because I found them."

"But?" Jenah waited.

"Opal Row depends on me. I feel torn between family and my own self-established duty. I don't know what to do..."

"Stay here."

Tony winced, "Why?"

"We can bring the people here without you. If they don't want to come, they can stay and die. They're not important," Jenah told him.

He rolled his eyes at her callousness, "Jenah, we can't do that."

"Focus on what's important. We'll be fine," Jenah said sternly.

"How can you be sure?"

Jenah looked past Tony. She saw Theo talking to his dad. Jay was heading to bed, but apparently Theo didn't want to sleep yet. Jenah responded, "Because we have Theodore back."

Sebastian walked by as Theo and Jay hugged one another. It made him smile. He scoped out the cafeteria for his son. He found the young'un helping Koraline clean up the play area, since bedtime was around the corner. The father chortled, "Aye, lad, mak ma proud."

The restroom door Olivia previously exited opened. Natalie walked out, adjusting her coat and camisole back on.

"Ah, Natalie, hou's it gaun?" Sebastian asked.

"Hmm? Oh, yeah, having a ball. Kinda peckish. You look like a guy who knows good food," Natalie patted her stomach.

"Hah! Cheeky cunt. I'd be mad gin that wisnae true. C'mon, let's eat!" Sebastian cracked a grin. Natalie matched his energy and they strolled to the food line. However, she noticed along the way that Theo parted from Jay and walked out the front of the shelter.

Outside, the moonless night dipped the world into darkness. The street lights barely illuminated the driveway and parking lot. The exterior shelter lights were intentionally unpowered. Tucked into a forested area, Theo was serenaded by the rustling of trees and the songs of the crickets. Away from people, he let out a sigh he'd been holding in. He leaned on the wall and stared at the clouds and stars.

Somebody came outside. It was Natalie, with a tray of food. She rollerskated over and joined Theo, "What's up?"

"Came out for some fresh air," Theo blocked. He didn't need to talk to her.

"Mind if I join you? You look like you don't want to be alone," Natalie peeled the slice of ham out of the sandwich and tossed it at a nearby anthill.

"You'd be surprised..."

"I would be," Natalie tilted her head and agreed. She bit into the cheese sandwich and chewed for a bit. They didn't talk; they just stargazed. Once Natalie was done with the sandwich, she burped and blew air. Theo scrunched his face at her rude mannerisms. She then said, "Thanks for standing up for me. I appreciate the kindness."

"Sure..." Theo didn't think too much of it.

"Is there... anyway I can pay you back?" Natalie asked with a wink. She used a finger to pull on her camisole cleavage, giving Theo a clear shot at one of her breasts. The exposed nipple was primed and erect.

"To be honest, no," Theo declined. He instead watched the stars.

Natalie realized what that meant and stirred her salad. She nodded, "Ah, I get it. Too soon, huh?"

"Not really. Susan would definitely mock me if I lingered..." Theo imagined her cheering from the world beyond. Since Natalie knew the details, he squinted and said, "I barely know you. I don't throw down with just anybody."

"I like that answer. Tell me what Susan was like. She obviously wasn't 'just' anybody," Natalie took a mouthful of greens.

Her prying finally cracked at Theo's brooding, "Why do you even care?"

Natalie got wide-eyed for a second, but relaxed and shrugged, "I don't, dude. It's more for you."

Theo let out a big sigh and shook his head. The sound of a salad being devoured ruined the crickets' music. The point of her words gradually sunk in. Theo relented, "Her name was Susan Genesis. We met in the fourth grade."

Natalie perked up and listened. Theo went through all the major points and time spent with Susan. Everything he'd been reliving in his mind over the past week. He expected to tear up, but to his chagrin, it was more like relief. Like saying it out loud made it all real.

He told her about the times he, Susan, and Hank would spend weekends at one another's homes, playing games and staying up way too late. The shenanigans Susan would want to get into like TPing haters' houses. How it was around middle school graduation that he realized his feelings for her. How jealous he got when she was asked to prom by another guy. Her smile. Her presence. Her meaning.

Natalie held an empty tray by the time Theo finished. She vaped politely at a distance. The nostalgia and good times had him smiling.

"She sounded wonderful," Natalie said.

"She was."

"How did she die, if you don't mind me asking?"

Theo did mind. Yet maybe it was the last piece he needed to accept. To move forward and help everyone else. He spoke from under the weight, "She was bit when we left the college. After a few days, she started to change. I made sure she didn't change. I shot her."

The sickening pain hit his gut like a punch. Natalie, though, was happily surprised, "Good for you, man."

Theo held back his rage at such a response. He glared at her, "That is not what I wanted to hear."

"No, I'm serious. A lot of people can't do what you did. The emotions become too much, they wait too long, and then it's too late. You made sure the last memory both of you had was one of love. You should be proud," Natalie bestowed a genuine, caring smile.

Theo thought of the last memory; Susan smiling up at her boyfriend. Serene, even in agony. He quelled the anger that Natalie spurred up, "Yeah, I guess you're right."

"I usually am," Natalie proudly announced. "Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass; it's about learning to dance in the rain."

Theo nodded a bit and admitted, "I think you and Susan would have gotten along."

"Hehe, maybe. That or I would annoy her like I tend to do."

"You just have a bad way of delivering. You come across as an asshole."

"Oh, snap, my bad. I get that a lot."

"It's fine. I'm the same way," Theo and Natalie shared a moment. They both ended up enjoying each other's company. Now was as good a time as ever, "Thanks for snapping me out of my stupor."

"No problem, man. Thanks for waking up."

'Theodore, wake up!'

Hanover's words tore through Theo's mind like a fissure. He clutched his head in severe pain and nearly stumbled forward. Hanover's voice echoed from somewhere inside. Her words overlapped, unclear in the mental mess.

It became too much. It knocked Theo out. The last thing he sensed were a pair of hands catching his head from smashing against the ground.