Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was a cool Autumn night.. The day had gone by with not a hint of anything wrong…

September 26, 2013 8:05 A.M.

Camila had just dropped Luz off at school on her way to work at Gravesfield Memorial Hospital. Luz and her woke up late that morning; so they didn’t have time for breakfast. Over the last day, the hospital had over a hundred patients with the same cases come in. They all had a cough, confusion, and muscle spasms when they had arrived and some of the patients had started to become violent. Camila had only just finished a 36 hour shift the night before, but the hospital was desperate, so Camila agreed to come back in for another eight hours. Camila had stopped for coffee and a donut before she arrived at the hospital. Unfortunately the coffee shop was completely sold out of donuts so Camila just got the coffee.

5:00 A.M.

Manny Noceda was up before the sun. This habit had been ingrained in him during his deployments and it had followed him home. Manny prepared for his day as he quietly got out of bed, sure not to disturb his wife.

‘Why does she work herself to the bone so regularly…’ a small smile crossed his lips… ‘I bet she’d ask me the same thing…’

Manny quickly made and ate some scrambled eggs. It was about the only thing he could eat because of his gluten allergy, but it was still miles better than anything he had in the military. Manny put on his boots and grabbed his tool belt as he headed to the job site to hopefully finish the framing today.

6:12 A.M.

Amity Blight was up early as today would be the day that she would ask out her crush. She had been hanging out with Luz since the end of last school year and had fallen for her over that summer; they were both fifteen now. She just hoped that she wouldn’t chicken out like she had the last few times. Amity had been nervous about what her parents would think about her dating Luz, but to her surprise they were incredibly supportive. In fact, they were happy she had found someone who made her happy. Amity went through her plan again as she got dressed, when she heard a knock on her door, before it was opened. “What do you want, Em?” Amity asked her sister, not even having to look to see it was her.

“Just seeing if you’re ready. Mom made breakfast and didn’t want you to miss out. It’s just sausage and eggs, since mom hasn’t been to the store yet this week.” Emira told Amity.

“Thanks, but I’m not hungry right now.” Amity said as she fidgeted with the lace on her dress.

“Are you still nervous about asking Luz out?” Emira asked as she sat on Amity’s bed and patted the spot next to her.

Amity sat next to her sister as she continued to fidget. “Yes.” Amity sighed. “I just really like Luz and I like hanging out with her, so I don’t want to mess up our friendship by asking her out if she doesn’t feel the same.” Amity admitted, finally looking at her sister.

Emira took Amity’s hands in her own. “Amity, I know that whatever happens, Luz will still be your friend. She adores you and nothing you could do would change that.” Emira told Amity. “Now come on. You can’t go to school on an empty stomach.” Emira said as she grabbed Amity by the hand and headed to the dining room.

5:30 A.M.

Eda had been up for the last half hour, thanks to her time in the military, but she didn’t mind. In fact she quite enjoyed being up before most. It gave her time to reflect, especially since she had been called out of the National Guard reserves. The order had been given to her this morning by her old Commanding Officer personally, as they were the only one that Eda wouldn’t laugh away. They were very cagey about the details as to why she was being put on active duty. The only information that she was given, was that it was a matter of utmost secrecy and that she needed to be ready by 1200 hours and transport would pick her up. Eda sighed as she took a sip from her coffee. She was still debating on whether she was making the right decision as she called Manny.

The phone rang a few times before, “Hey Eda. I’m about at the job site so I don’t have much time to talk.”

“I’ll be quick since I shouldn’t even be telling you this anyway. Wrath stopped by this morning and informed me I was being called to active duty. He wouldn’t tell me much besides that it was highly secretive, but I wanted you to know that way you are prepared for anything that might happen.” Eda explained.

It was quiet on the other end as Manny processed what he had been told. “Thanks for the heads up Eda. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and take care of yourself now.” Manny said before hanging up the phone.

Eda sighed as she finished her cup of coffee. She had a feeling it wouldn’t be her last.

8:10 A.M.

Luz walked into her first class ten minutes late. She apologized as she entered the classroom, getting a dirty look from the teacher before they continued their lecture. Luz quickly sat in her seat and took out her notes as Amity whispered to her. “I was starting to wonder if you were sick with whatever has been going around.”

Luz glanced at the teacher before she whispered back to Amity. “No, me and mamá overslept and I missed breakfast because of it.”

Amity felt her pain as she had missed breakfast more than a few times. “Don’t worry I have some oranges if you want after class.” Amity suggested as she started taking some notes as the teacher looked towards them.

“You’d be a lifesaver.” Luz said before she focused back on the teacher. Class didn’t last much longer as, for some unexplained reason, it was dismissed after only thirty minutes. Luz looked at Amity to ask if she knew, but Amity looked just as confused, so Luz didn’t second guess it and grabbed Amity by the hand and left for their next class.

Amity was a blushing mess. “Luzzz! Slow down so I can get the oranges out of my bag.” Amity cried. Luz started to slow down as she got to her locker and started grabbing things for her next classes.

Amity dug through her bag as she tried to sike herself up. Amity grabbed both oranges she had and handed one to Luz. Luz went to start walking to their next class, but Amity reached out and grabbed her hand before she got far. “Luz I want to ask you something. It’s something I’ve been wanting to ask for a while now.” Amity said, looking at the ground.

Luz turned back towards Amity. “What is it Amity?” Luz asked with a lopsided grin.

Amity took a couple deep breaths before she looked up at Luz. “Luz, would you want to go out with me? Like on a date?” Amity asked with fear of rejection clear in her voice.

Luz grew a slight blush across her face as she nervously looked at the ground. “I’d really like that.” Luz answered as she looked back up at Amity.

“Really?” Amity asked, a bit surprised.

“Yes, really.” Luz answered with enthusiasm. “I’d be crazy not to. You’re cool smart and classy”

Amity internally freaked out as she grabbed Luz’s hand. “Great. That’s really great.” Amity said as the bell rang. The two of them rushed to their next class.

They whispered back and forth through their class and were more than happy to be sent off to their next class thirty minutes later. The two of them walked shoulder to shoulder, fingers dancing around each other, as they talked.

“Would you want to come over after school today? I’m sure mom and dad wouldn’t mind.” Amity asked excitedly. “Besides, it seems like we’re going to be getting out early for some reason, so you’d be by yourself at home and I don’t think you should be alone.” Amity said as she blushed.

“You going soft on me, Blight?” Luz teased.

“In your dreams.” Amity replied coolly as they reached their class. They took their seats and got prepared to take notes.

“I’d love to come over if your parents are ok with it. I’ll just have to let mamá and papá know.” Luz said as she pulled out her phone from her pocket and texted both her parents. They both sent approvals and Luz relayed that to Amity, who had gotten approval from her parents as well.

The two girls went through their half day with ease. Once school was over Amity told Emira that Luz was coming over before grabbing Luz by the hand and getting in the back of Emira’s car.

12:30 P.M.

The hospital was swamped with these mystery cases and more and more coming in. Camila was on her lunch break and she was texting Luz. Apparently the school only had a half day today, but hadn’t told any parents at all, which pissed them off. The day had been very strange so far Camila thought as she took a bite of her salad.

Camila was worried about Luz when she heard, around 9 am, that the school was releasing early but Luz had asked to go over to the Blights. Of course Camila agreed especially after she learned Amity had asked Luz out. She wanted her baby to be happy and it seemed Amity did that for her.

Camila was broken from her thoughts as a code white rang out overhead. Camila quickly picked up her lunch and washed her hands. She then rushed to the room where the code was at to help restrain the violent patient. As her and three other nurses were restraining the patient, one of the nurses was bit. Camila attended to the nurse that was bitten before heading back to work again. She was just hoping to get through her shift unscathed.

1:45 P.M.

It had been a rough day for Manny. Half of the crew, working on the housing project he was on, called in sick and a quarter of the ones that showed up, left sick as dogs later. It would be a miracle if they finished framing today.

Manny put that out of his mind as he got another text from Luz. She told him and Camila that Amity asked her out and made sure it was fine for her to go over to the Blights. Now she was sending pictures of her and Amity close together as they played Monopoly. Manny chuckled at the face Amity was making as she concentrated on the game, while a blush was present on her face.

‘At least Luz is having a good day.’ Manny thought as he got back to work. ‘Maybe this will end up being a good day.’

2:30 P.M.

It was a horrible day. Eda had finally been briefed on what was going on and it made her worry. Apparently something was happening to people who had eaten anything that had flour in it over the last day. She was relieved to know that she and Manny were unaffected but worried about Luz and Camila, but she needed to focus right now.

“We'll be setting up checkpoints at every entrance into and out of the city. We need to make sure that if something were to happen, we would be able to stop it from spreading.” Wrath explained.

Eda felt that something was still being kept from them and it bothered her. But she wouldn’t be able to find any proof until she was relieved from her post later that night.

2:37 P.M.

Luz and Amity were discussing the Good Witch Azura when Odalia and Alador walked through the door. They looked like death warmed over as they entered their home. Amity ran over to her parents and welcomed them home. “Welcome home. How was work today?” Amity asked worryingly, seeing how they looked.

“It’s been a nightmare Mitty.” Alador said. “Almost everyone had called out sick today because of whatever is going around, so that left me pretty much alone to complete our prototype I told you about.” Alador had deep bags under his eyes and he clearly was only awake right now because of coffee.

Odalia looked even worse than Alador if that was possible. She had deep bags under her eyes as well, her hair was disheveled and in a loose ponytail, and her face looked barely put together. “It’s been a long day for both of us, Amity. Your father and I are going to lie down for a bit, we’ll be up in a few hours. Will Luz be joining us for dinner?” Odalia asked as she acknowledged Luz sweetly.

“Probably? We haven’t actually discussed it yet.” Amity said as she looked at Luz, then back to her mom.

“Well that’s fine. Just let us know when we get up.” Odalia said as she headed to her room. Alador had gone to it after he had greeted Amity.

Amity sat back down next to Luz. “Do you think you would be able to stay for dinner?” Amity asked.

“I’m sure that would be fine, but I have a better idea. If it’s not too forward, do you think we could have a sleepover? I don’t think mamá and papá would mind since we don’t have school tomorrow and I know they trust you.” Luz asked, basically vibrating with excitement at the prospect.

“I honestly don’t know. I guess I could ask Emira. Mom and dad normally go with whatever she says since they trust her judgment and I’m pretty sure she would say yes to it.” Amity explained as she grabbed Luz’s hand and stood up. She led them upstairs to Emira’s room and knocked on the door. “Come in.” Emira said from the other side.

Amity entered with Luz trailing behind her. “Hey Mittens.” Edric said with a smile from ear to ear. “Hey Ed, I have a question for Emira. Could you leave the room for a minute please?” Amity asked her brother.

Edric sighed with faux annoyance, saying “Fine.”, before leaving the room and closing the door behind him.

“What’s your question Amity?” Emira asked, seeing Luz next to Amity.

“Do you think it’d be alright if Luz and I have a sleepover? Mom and dad are home but they went to lie down and I didn’t want to disturb them when I knew they typically go with whatever you tell me.” Amity asked hopefully.

Emira pretended to think it over just to mess with Amity a little. “I think that’ll be fine as long as Luz’s parents are ok with it.” Emira said as Amity rushed into her with a bear hug.

“Thank you thank you thank you Em.” Amity squealed happily.

“You’re welcome, Amity. Now do you need to go home and get anything for this sleepover?” Emira asked Luz.

Luz nodded her head as she was texting her mom and dad, who were only slightly hesitant, but obliged nonetheless.

“Ok well let’s go ahead and get your stuff that way we’ll have some time to stop at the store since mom was unable to.” Emira explained as she stood and headed out of her room.

Ed was sitting on the couch downstairs when he saw his siblings and Luz heading towards the door to leave. “Where are you guys headed?”

“Luz is going to stay over tonight, so we’re going to her house so she can grab what she needs, then we’re going to the store. We’ll be back in a couple hours so don’t burn the house down.” Emira explained as she, Luz and Amity walked out the door.

“I’ll do my best.” Edric said.

7:01 P.M.

Manny was just getting home from work as he got another text from Luz. It was another picture of her and Amity hugging each other with giant smiles on their faces. Luz had been sending these pictures all day and it made Manny’s heart swell with joy as his daughter was having the best day. He sat down and took his boots off, before heading to the shower. It had been a tiring day, but it wasn’t over yet.

7:10 P.M.

Emira was finishing up cooking dinner for everyone as Luz was talking about how weird today had been. They were having pork chops, potatoes, broccoli and carrots for dinner and the smell was delightful. Odalia and Alador had woken up a few minutes ago and joined the family for the night. Emira explained that Luz was going to stay the night and that she had already given approval since they were sleeping. Odalia was a little upset that she wasn’t asked, but ultimately wasn’t all that unhappy. Luz had stayed over a few times over the summer and was an excellent house guest, so Odalia couldn’t complain too much.

As Emira finished cooking, everyone thanked her before eating. It was a great dinner with many different flavors; not near as many as Luz was used to but it was good nonetheless. Luz always loved having home cooked meals, but as of late hadn’t had very many. After everyone was finished eating, Luz started helping pick up and wash dishes. “Luz you don’t need to do that.” Emira said as she put away the little leftovers they had.

“I know but mamá always said being a good house guest is helping clean up.” Luz said as she continued to wash dishes. “Besides I don’t mind.” Odalia smiled to herself hearing that. Luz was a good kid and was happy that Amity chose her.

As the night dragged on, Odalia got a call from Manny, which was a bit strange she thought as she answered. “Hello?” Odalia said.

“Odalia is Luz at your house right this moment?” Manny asked with a hint of fear in his voice.

“Yes she is, why?” Odalia asked, trying to keep her voice even.

“You need to listen. Something bad is happening to people as we speak. They’re turning into…into monsters. Camila has been seeing it get worse all day and I have a friend in the National Guard who has confirmed that it’s worse than it seems.” Manny said quickly trying to get the information across.

“Me and Camila are headed your way with our vehicles. You need to pack and grab anything important that you can carry and get ready to leave. Have the children do the same. We’ve got things for Luz, but we need to leave as soon as we get to you.” Manny said as he turned on a blinker.

“Wait, slow down. What do you mean they’re turning into monsters?” Odalia asked, unable to keep the fear from her voice. At this point everyone was looking at Odalia as she talked. They were starting to get anxious from what they had overheard.

“There’s no time to explain. Just do what I said. Me and Cami will be there in twenty minutes.” Manny said before hanging up. Odalia was frozen for a moment before her motherly instincts kicked in.

“All right we all need to go pack anything you can carry. Make sure to grab anything important as we don’t know if we’ll be back and be quick.” Odalia said as she looked at Alador who could see the fear written on her face.

“What’s going on mom?” Amity asked as she was about shivering from anxiety.

“It’s too much to explain right now baby. Just hurry up and pack. Have Luz help you. Her parents will be here in twenty minutes so be quick.” Odalia said as her and Alador headed to their room.

Amity was now shivering from how scared she was at that moment. Luz grabbed her hand and slowly rubbed circles into it. Both Ed and Em stayed looking worryingly at their sister, before Luz mouthed an “I got her”, giving them a chance to go pack.

Luz took Amity’s hands in her own. “Hey, look at me.” Luz said, waiting till their eyes met. “This will all be okay. My dad will do everything he can to make sure of that. I know you’re scared, but so am I. I mean we only just started dating and of course the world is possibly falling apart.” Luz joked, trying to comfort Amity.

Amity giggled. “It would figure, wouldn't it. Thank you Luz. Let’s hurry up and pack some of my stuff.” Amity said as she led them to her room.

8:50 P.M.

Eda had finally gotten back from her post and immediately went to check to see if Wrath was in his tent. She was lucky and he was gone for the moment, so she slipped in and started looking around. She knew when people were keeping things from her and Wrath was definitely keeping something hidden. Eda searched their entire desk before she found a memo from the Governor. Eda scanned over the document quickly, as well as taking a picture of it and sending it to Manny.

Eda had read through nearly all of the document before she learned what was being kept secret. “The infection seems to be taking control of the patients' minds. It seems there is no stopping it. If there is no way to contain the infection, it will need to be destroyed. If it comes to it, save as many as you can but DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES LET ANYONE INJURED THROUGH.” Eda read to herself as she realized what this meant. If the population couldn’t be contained should the infection spread, the city would need to be leveled to hopefully prevent the spread.

Eda quickly put the memo back before leaving the tent, making sure no one saw her, and found a private spot to call Manny. The phone rang a couple times before Manny answered.

“Hey Eda. How’s your—“

“Manny, listen you need to get Luz and Camila and get out of town. Something is happening with this infection that’s affecting so many people. I sent you a picture of something I found and the State is willing to bomb the city, it sounds like, if necessary.” Eda quickly rattled off. “Pack whatever you can and get out of town. I’m going back to my post on Route 119. Go that way to leave town. I’ll make sure you get through.” Eda explained as calmly as she could.

Eda knew that Manny had a million thoughts running through his head, but knew that he would listen without a word. “Alright Eda, we’re going to be bringing the Blight family with us. Luz is dating Amity now so it’s non-negotiable. We’ll be there in about an hour.” Manny said before hanging up.

Eda’s nerves eased a bit knowing that Manny, Camila and Luz had a chance to get out before things got bad. She quickly headed back to her post on Route 119 as she prepared herself.

9:10 P.M.

As soon as he was off the phone, Manny turned to Camila and said, “Cam, Eda just called me and we need to get out of town quick. Whatever that infection is, is worse than what we’ve been told. I need you to grab our go bags and pack anything of ours or Luz’s that’s important as well as clothes.”, as he tried to keep a level tone.

“What’s going—“ Camila started before Manny cut her off. “We don’t have time for me to explain. Please trust me and Eda when we say that we need to leave town.”

Camila opened her mouth to ask again but closed it and decided Manny was right. Besides, Camila was now more worried about Luz than anything.

Camila quickly went under their bed and grabbed their go bags, which already had copies of theirs and Luz’s important documents, and started putting a few days worth of clothes and anything else she found to be important in the bags. After she was done with their bags, Camila went into Luz’s room and grabbed her bag and started doing the same. She put a few days worth of clothes as well as her Azura books and some of her keepsakes in her bag. Once their bags were ready, she headed back into the living room where she saw Manny putting on his old military issue bullet proof vest. He had gone to the basement and grabbed his rifle, shotgun and pistol and as much ammunition he could carry in his military rucksack.

Seeing this really made Camila understand just how serious this was. Manny never touched his weapons or his military gear unless he was doing maintenance and cleaning them. “It really is that serious huh?” Camila asked with fear in her voice.

“I’m afraid so, love, but I promise me and Eda will protect you, Luz and the Blight’s.” Manny said, resting his forehead against Camila’s. “Alright let’s head out. Who knows when everything will start going to shit.” Manny said as he gave Camila her keys.

“I want you in front that way if anything happens, I’ll be right behind you.” Manny said as he put his rifle in the holster on his back and grabbed his shotgun and rucksack, before heading outside.

It was a beautiful night, but it was eerily quiet. It gave Camila the chills, so she hurriedly got in her suv and started heading to the Blight’s with Manny following behind her.

9:20 P.M.

Once they were alone in their room, Alador shut their door and asked Odalia, “What’s going on? What did Manny say?”, as he watched her start to frantically grab important documents.

“He said that whatever this infection is, it’s going to cause people to become monsters or something. Come on, we need to get packed. You should grab your pistol. I know how you feel about using guns, but—“ Odalia rambled before Alador stopped her.

“Don’t worry Dalia. This is bigger than my view on guns. We need to protect the children if or when things go wrong.” Alador told Odalia. “Can you pack my bag while I go get my pistol and some of our important documents from my office?”

“I’ll handle it Al.” Odalia said as she gave him a peck before he left for his office. “It’ll be alright.” Odalia told herself as she continued packing.

Luz was trying to keep Amity from spiraling as she quickly packed a bag with her important keepsakes, her Azura books and some clothes.

“Amity, it's going to be okay. We’re going to be okay. I know you’re really scared right now, but you need to stop and take a deep breath or you’re going to have a panic attack.” Luz said as she looked at Amity starting to hyperventilate. “Please.” Luz begged as she grabbed Amity by the shoulders.

Amity looked into Luz’s eyes and saw how worried she was and slowly started taking deep breaths. When she finally calmed down enough, Amity told Luz, “Thank you. I’m just so scared about what’s going to happen.”, as she sat down next to her.

“I know. I’m terrified that something bad is happening and I don’t want to think about what might happen to you or mamá or papá.” Luz said as tears started to roll down her face.

Amity held Luz as she started to cry. They were against a ticking clock, but it could wait for them. Once Luz’s tears slowed, Amity asked, “Better?”, as she wiped away a tear.

“A little. Thank you.” Luz said weakly.

Amity looked around her room one more time seeing if there was anything else she thought she should grab. Not seeing anything else, she slung her bag over her shoulder and held her hand out to Luz. “Let’s go back downstairs while we wait.”

Luz accepted Amity’s hand and they headed back downstairs to the living room, where Ed and Em were silently freaking out. Once they saw their sister, they acted as calm as they could, hoping to keep Amity calm that way. Amity just hugged them both and told them, “It’s alright. You don’t need to hide how scared you are to protect me.”, as she looked up at them.

Emira had tears streaming down her face when Amity said that. “We’re your older siblings. It’s our job to protect you.” Emira cried.

“If we can’t keep you from being scared, what good are we?” Edric cried as he was holding back tears.

“It’s alright. If I wasn’t scared there would probably be something wrong with me.” Amity joked as she let her siblings go.

As the three of them laughed, there was a knock at the door then, “Luz? Amity? It’s Manny. I’m coming in.”

As Manny entered the Blight residence, Luz bull rushed her dad and hugged him tight. “Papá! I’m so happy you and mamá are safe. What’s going on? We heard a little of what you told Amity’s mom, but she told us it was too much to explain and that made me really scared and and and…” Luz started saying before she was hyperventilating in her dad’s arms.

“Hey, breathe Luz. Deep breath in for four, deep breath out for five.” Manny told his daughter.

Luz followed his instructions as she slowly got her breathing under control. “Are you all right now mija?” Manny asked as Luz nodded her head. “Good. It’s going to be okay, alright. I’m here now and I won’t let anything hurt you.”

As Manny was calming Luz down, Odalia and Alador walked into the living room with their bags. “Are we ready to leave?” Manny asked.

“I believe so.” Alador said as he was rubbing his hand along Odalia’s back in an attempt to help her stay calm.

“Alright let’s go.” Manny said as he led them out of the house to the cars. “Alador, could you ride with Camila? That way both vehicles have someone with a gun in case something were to happen.” Manny asked as he loaded the Blight’s bags in the back of his truck.

“Of course.” Alador said as he helped load the bags before getting in the passenger seat of Camila’s suv.

Luz nervously walked up to her dad before she asked, “Can me and Amity ride with you, papa? Please.”, as she was holding Amity close to her.

Manny was hesitant and felt they were probably safer with Camila and everyone else, but ultimately agreed. “Sure mija, but if anything happens, you two need to listen to everything I say, got it?”

Luz and Amity both shook their heads in agreement before they climbed into the front of the truck. Manny’s truck was a four door truck with both front and rear bench seats. Before he got in his truck, Manny walked up to Camila’s window and asked, “Are you all set?”, letting a little of his own fear show.

“I believe so.” Camila said as she got agreements from everyone in her vehicle.

“You know where we’re meeting Eda, right?” Manny asked.

“Yes. I’ll take the back roads as much as I can, but we will have to go through town for about a mile.” Camila said.

“I know, there’s just no avoiding it.” Manny sighed. “All right let’s go then.” He said before heading back to his own truck.

Once he was in the truck, Manny stuck a thumbs up outside his window so Camila knew he was ready to leave. As they headed out, Manny turned on the radio to try and ease the tension, but every channel he tuned to only provided static. “Okay silence it is then.” Manny said.

Route 119 was normally only twenty minutes away from the Blight’s house, but taking the back roads to avoid the city meant it was thirty-five minutes away now. As they slowly grew closer to town, signs of trouble became more prominent. At first it was just people seemingly acting crazy; rushing towards their vehicles as they passed. Then it started getting more gruesome. They passed infected eating the flesh off of people as they screamed in terror and pain. Manny tried to shield Luz and Amity from seeing it, but they still did. It was horrifying to watch happen.

“Why is this happening daddy?” Luz cried as she hugged Manny’s side while Amity hugged Luz’s side and whimpered.

“I don’t know, baby.” Manny said, trying to comfort Luz, unsure what else he could say.

They reached the outskirts of town and it was complete decimation. This side of town had been reduced to people fleeing for their lives as they were chased by infected; while everything around them was crumbling and on fire. Manny held Luz and Amity close to himself so they wouldn’t see any of what was happening.

Despite the chaos, they had almost made it through town. They had one last turn, but that’s when everything went to shit. As Camila went to make the turn, a suv came barreling towards them at over thirty miles an hour. The suv slammed into the rear passenger, and sent them spinning. Once they had stopped spinning, Manny parked his truck and looked at Luz and Amity. “Stay in the truck and get on the floor so nothing and no one can see you!” Manny commanded as he got out and locked the truck while pulling his pistol from the holster. He quickly glanced for any infected, before rushing over to the vehicle.

Manny rushed to the driver’s side door and opened it. “Are you okay?” Manny asked Camila fretfully, looking her over quickly.

“I think I’m fine love.” Camila said as she unbuckled herself and got out.

“Careful now. How about you guys? Is anyone hurt back there?” Manny asked.

“I think Edric’s arm is broken.” Emira said as she was looking over her brother.

Manny internally cursed; remembering what the paper Eda had sent him said. “We’ll be able to get him fixed up once we’re safe, but for now we all need to get in my truck.” Manny told everyone as he looked at his surroundings again to make sure they’re safe. Once he was satisfied he unlocked the truck and had everyone rush to it while he checked on the other driver.

What he saw was like nothing he had ever seen. The guy looked like he had plants starting to grow from him. Manny assumed he must have been infected and had rather died than live like that. Once he was done checking, he booked it back to the truck and got them the rest of the way out of town. After about five more minutes of driving, Manny saw what looked like a makeshift guard station. A soldier ordered them to stop and for all of them to get out to be inspected. Manny was helping Edric out of the truck so he could hopefully hide Edric’s broken arm. With this soldier was Eda who was anxiously waiting for them to make it through. The soldier checked over everyone and found no problems until he got to Edric.

It was pretty obvious that Edric had a broken arm and once the soldier realized this he ordered for Edric to step aside. “Why?” Edric asked nervously.

“We’re under strict orders to not let anyone injured through.” The soldier stated.

“Can’t you make an exception? He’s not at all like those monsters back there. His arm is just broken.” Odalia pleaded to no avail.

“I can’t disregard the orders I’ve been given. Now step aside. Final warning.”

Edric started to take a step towards the soldier and that’s when all hell broke loose. Manny saw the movement from the soldier first and tried to shield Edric with his own body as the soldier raised their weapon and let out three shots. Everyone saw this as one final shot rang out and the soldier fell flat on the ground, as Eda stood behind where they had been with her own weapon raised. Once the soldier was dead on the ground, Eda and Camila rushed to check on Manny and Edric.

At first it seemed like they were both fine, but once they rolled Manny off Edric they saw just how bad it was. One of the bullets had reached Edric before Manny had got between him. Another had gone through Manny’s side and into Edric and the final bullet had gone through Manny’s leg and hit his femoral artery.

Manny was bleeding out and drowning in his own blood, as the bullet that went through his side, had gone through both of his lungs. Edric wasn’t doing any better. The first bullet that had hit Edric had punctured a hole in one of his lungs, while the bullet that went through Manny punctured his other lung; so he was also drowning in his own blood.

“No no no no no no. This can’t be happening.” Camila cried over Manny as she tried to slow the bleeding, already knowing there was nothing she could do to save them.

Manny rested his hand on Camila’s. “It’s alright mi amor.” Manny said raspily as he was quickly losing blood. “Luz, I love you so much. You are going–”huuuuu“to have to make sure your mom is–”huuuuuu“safe. All right carnio?”

“Please don’t go.” Luz cried.

“I don’t really have a choice.”huuuuu“Please promise me.” Manny pleaded as his time was almost up.

Luz had tears streaming down her face. “I will daddy. I promise.” Luz cried as Manny took his last breath

Edric wasn’t doing much better than Manny was. As his family looked over him; realizing what Camila already knew, they tried to comfort him. Amity and Emira were barely holding it together as they were watching their brother die. Amity could also hear Manny slowly dying as well as Luz crying, which only broke her heart even more.

“Amity, Em. I’m sorry I was always–”huuuuu“teasing you two so much. I did things that–”huuuuu“I knew you didn’t like and I’m sorry.” Edric wheezed out.

“Don’t go Ed. Please.” Emira pleaded.

“It’s okay Edric. I forgive you and I love you so much.” Amity cried, knowing there was nothing she could do to save him.

“I love yo–” Edric started to say before he let out his final breath.

Amity started to bawl once she realized he was really gone. She turned to Luz and wrapped her in a hug as the two girls cried their hearts out over their dead family members.

“I hate to do this, but we need to move now. There’s no telling how many of these infected monsters there are and I’d rather not find out.” Eda said as she made a silent prayer for both Manny and Edric.

“We can’t just leave them like this.” Camila and Odalia both cried.

“I didn’t plan on it. Alador, help me load Manny in the back of my truck here and I’ll get Edric.” Eda said as she pointed out the military issued pick up she had with her.

Once the bodies were loaded, Eda had the group, in Manny’s truck, follow her to a wooded area far enough from town where they could bury them without issues. They placed rudimentary grave stones to mark their graves, before Eda grabbed everything she could take off her pickup. She then loaded everyone back in Manny’s pickup and headed for her own old family home, which she knew was vacant and had been for years.

Across the country and the world, stories like this were unfolding as the world was flipped on its head in a matter of a few hours.

Chapter Text

Seven Years Later

Luz Noceda was helping toss bodies into the burn pile in the middle of town and stoking the flame. Luz had lived in the Bonesborough QZ, in Ohio, for the last five years and learned quick to fall in line, or at least act like you were, or die. She wiped the sweat from her forehead as the buzz over the speakers signaled her shift was over. Luz looked around and saw others mingling over to the ration stand and headed over there herself to collect her wage.

Luz was handed three days of ration papers. “Is there any other work?” Luz asked as she stuck her gloves in her back pocket. She disliked working with the dead bodies because it reminded her of her dad.

“Nothing today or tomorrow. Monday we got street sweeping, a couple of roofing projects and sewer maintenance.” The man at the stand said.

Luz scrunched her nose at her options before asking a question she knew the answer to. “Which pays better?”

“Probably the one dealing with shit. The roofing doesn’t pay near as well as the sewer maintenance and you’d be working in the scorching sun all day, but you wouldn’t smell like shit.” the man answered.

“I’ll take the roofing gig.” Luz said as accepted her proof of work.

“West side crew 6 am start Monday morning.” the man told Luz as she walked away. ‘At least I’ll be close to home when I’m done.’ Luz thought to herself.

Luz slowly headed towards her apartment. As Luz walked, she passed by two Fedra officers watching over two citizens painting over a propaganda mural. It was Firefly propaganda. Luz had heard of the Fireflies and they even tried to recruit her once but Luz vehemently declined. She did not need to get wrapped up in revolution bullshit.

As she neared home, Luz took a left down an alley and looked over her shoulder, making sure she wasn’t being followed. The alleyway expanded to a 20 x 20 space where there was a Fedra officer impatiently waiting. “About time you showed up. You got the stuff?” the nervous officer asked.

Luz pulled out of her pants pocket a Camel snus canister and opened it to reveal it was full of the chewing tobacco. “Do you got the ration slips?” Luz asked as she glanced around again and caught sight of mint hair out the corner of her eye. She pretended not to notice so as not to spook her customer. The Fedra officer pulled out ten days of ration slips and handed them to Luz as she handed him the snus container. Just then another Fedra officer showed up.

This Fedra officer was female with mint green hair with her brown roots starting to show. She had golden eyes, was tall, slender and well toned. She had the markings on her uniform that showed she was a captain.“What the hell did I just come across?” The captain asked, scaring the shit out of her subordinate.

Luz, knowing who the captain was, kept her mouth shut and let the scared officer try and dig himself out of his hole. “I-I-I was just about to arrest this citizen for distributing illegal contraband.” The officer replied as he started to move towards Luz. Before he even got a chance, the captain put the fear of god in him again.

“Oh really, because that is not what I saw. What I saw was you paying her for that chewing tobacco.”

Seeing that he was caught and screwed, the officer turned to begging. “Please don’t tell anyone. It was an addiction I had before the outbreak that I still can’t break.” The officer pleaded down on their knees, as tears started to roll down their face. Luz was impressed with how well they were pleading. She was even feeling bad for them.

The captain sighed. “Alright get up and get out of here. Don’t let me catch you again or I’ll have you arrested.” The captain said as she gave Luz a sultry look while the officer’s head was down. Luz’s face immediately heated up.

The officer stood back up, missing the look the captain had given Luz, and asked, “What about this citizen? She did still sell me illegal contraband.”, as he side eyed Luz.

“Don’t worry, I’ll handle her.” The captain said as huskily as she could without tipping off the officer asking. Not picking up on the underlying tone, the officer nodded in affirmation and slinked out of the alleyway, leaving Luz alone with the captain.

Once the officer was out of sight the two waited a few more seconds before Luz spoke up. “How are you going to handle me, Miss Blight?” Luz asked provocatively as she slid up against the captain, Amity Blight.

Amity blushed slightly before saying, “Take me home and I’ll show you how I’ll handle you.”, sensually as she traced her finger from Luz’s lips down to her chest, stopping at her breasts.

Luz's whole face erupted in a blush. She immediately grabbed Amity’s hand and led her quickly to their secret passage tucked just in the corner of the alleyway they were in; where no one would notice it. Once they were in their secret passage, Amity stripped out of her Fedra gear and changed into more casual clothing packed in a backpack. Luz watched unashamedly as Amity stripped, admiring her body. Once she was changed, and flicked Luz for staring, Amity placed her Fedra gear back in the backpack and slung it on her back.

Luz relaced her fingers with Amity’s and started walking through the tunnel to the exit in the basement in the apartment complex they lived in. Luz checked their surroundings before pushing the bookshelf the rest of the way out of their way, letting Amity through. Luz quickly pushed the heavy bookshelf back in place before she grabbed Amity’s hand and was basically dragged by her through the apartment complex.

Amity was an easily recognizable Fedra “employee” and Luz was a well known smuggler in the building; so the two together would normally be an odd sight, but Amity had proved to the building that she was trustworthy. She had even gotten a few residents of the building out of tight pinches by stepping in, so everyone in the building turned a blind eye to the couple; knowing they were better off with them looking out than if they went against them.

Luz and Amity quickly made it back to their apartment and were barely keeping their hands off each other as Luz was opening the door. Once they were inside and the door was closed and locked, all bets were off. With the door closed, Amity pinned Luz against the door as she ran her hands up Luz’s sides while nibbling the side of her neck.

Luz felt like she was in Heaven. She pushed off the door as she started making out with Amity. The two were slowly undressing each other as they were heading to their bedroom, bumping into every wall in the apartment. They were down to their undergarments as they entered their room. Luz hastily closed and locked their door before she tackled Amity on their bed. Amity giggled before continuing to make out with Luz.

The two explored each other for the next two hours before getting tired enough to finally take a break. They laid together in bed wrapped in each other’s arms. They were talking about their days as they were calming down.

“That was right before I met up with you. Which reminds me, how long have you been feeding Tom’s nicotine addiction?” Amity asked with more curiosity than accusingly.

“Well let’s see.” Luz said as she thought, sticking her tongue out as she did. Amity always found that adorable. “About four years. It was after we started flirting with each other before we got back together and that was a little more than four years ago.” Luz answered as she locked eyes with Amity.

Amity cringed slightly as she remembered how she had treated Luz when she arrived in Bonesborough. “I’m sor—“ Amity began to say before Luz cut her off. “Amity we’ve been over this. I know that you were just acting out from the stress you were under; from your mom and from your fellow officers. I don’t blame you. In fact,” Luz started to say as she was climbing out of bed. “I got a surprise for you, so get dressed. We’re going out.”

“What do you mean out?” Amity asked skeptically as she got up and started to get redressed.

“We’re going just outside the QZ. Don’t worry no one will see us together, but I can’t tell you where because it’s a surprise.” Luz said giddily. Amity just giggled at her girlfriend and continued to get ready.

Once they were dressed again and had their backpacks and pistols, Amity insisted, they headed out. They made their way to the roof of their building, sheltered by the darkness of night, and silently laid a plank across to the next building. It was now past curfew and if either of them were caught it wouldn’t be good. Once on top of the building next door, they quickly made their way to the basement. They didn’t have to worry about any residents in this building as it had been condemned because of how shoddy the building itself was.

Once in the basement, Amity kept a look out while Luz pushed a large shelf out the way. After the shelf was moved, Luz gestured for Amity to go ahead before Luz followed, pulling the shelf back in place. Amity and Luz clicked on their flashlight as the tunnel became pitch black. “As much as I’d love to watch your backside, we need to trade places.” Luz said with a teasing grin.

Amity playfully swatted Luz as she moved to lead. “That just means I’ll have a great view.” Amity said with a husky tone, making Luz’s face erupt in a blush for the fifth time today.

Luz turned around for a moment and said, “Save that talk for when we get where we’re going.”, with a passionate look in her eyes. Amity completely froze up as a blush graced her own face. The only response she could manage was a hum in agreement with a nod.

Luz chuckled with glee. She was glad she could still make Amity just as flustered as she did to Luz. Luz led them through the tunnel, which split into a few different tunnels; most being boarded up or collapsed. Eventually they reached the end of their tunnel. Luz turned to Amity with her finger pressed to her lips, signalling her to be silent.

Luz slowly and quietly moved the pallet that covered the exit to the tunnel; which led to the basement of a house just outside of the QZ. Luz signalled Amity to wait before as she silently checked their surroundings. Satisfied with finding no signs of anyone, alive or infected, being there, Luz gestured for Amity to join her. Amity placed the pallet back in front of the tunnel before joining Luz hand in hand.

“Where are we?” Amity asked as she looked at the basement they were in. They couldn't have been walking for more than twenty minutes Amity was thinking.

“We're just outside the wall of the QZ.” Luz replied as she slowly led them upstairs; one hand on her holster while the other was in Amity's. She didn't trust that this house was still clear.

Amity noticed how cautious Luz was and placed her own hand on her holster. “How did you find this place?” Amity asked, trying to ease the tension as they made their way to the first floor of the house they were in.

“It was actually Eda who showed me. She found it by accident when she was hiding from a Fedra patrol.” Luz explained, keeping her voice soft and quiet. Being satisfied with finding nothing, Luz took her hand off her holster as she led Amity to a broken window. Luz carefully climbed out of it before turning around to help Amity through it as well.

Once on the open street, Luz hurried them to cover as a spotlight passed over where they just were. Once they were clear, Luz quickly led them through the streets of old Bonesborough, occasionally ducking spotlights. After about fifteen minutes, they arrived at their destination.

They were far enough away that they didn't need to worry about the spotlights as they looked up at the big sign above the building, reading Sam’s Club. “Help me open these doors.” Luz told Amity as she walked up to the sliding doors of the warehouse store. Amity jogged to meet Luz at the doors and pulled back on one door while Luz pulled on the other.

Luz and Amity squeezed through the opening they made, before sliding the doors closed again. Once they were inside and relatively safe, Amity asked, “How did you even find out about this place?”, as she followed Luz through the store. She was looking for something specific.

“Eda actually is the one that found it. She was exploring the outskirts of the QZ when she came across it. It had mostly been picked clean, but she did find a few things that were worthwhile and hid other things she knew I'd like.” Luz explained as she jumped behind a counter.

“Is that what you're looking for now?” Amity asked as she watched Luz search under the counter.

“Not at the moment. Eda told me this place has a backup generator and that there was a switch that would turn it on. She said that it would be somewhere…ah ha.” Luz said as she found the switch and flipped it. As she flipped the switch, all the lights in the building started to flicker on.

Amity looked on in awe before remembering the sign out front. “What about the sign?” Amity asked Luz.

“Don’t worry. Eda told me the power was disconnected from it, so no need to worry.” Luz said as she watched Amity’s in awe expression. Both her and Luz had been to stores like these before the outbreak, but the fact that there was one, with power, so close was incredible. Once the power was turned on, Luz hopped the counter and grabbed Amity by the hand and dragged her excitedly down a mostly empty aisle. “Luz slow down.” Amity giggled.

Luz came to a stop in front of a wall that looked normal to Amity. Luz hooked her finger in a well hidden groove and gave a pull. A hidden door about fifteen inches wide and ten inches tall began to open revealing a hidden compartment residing in the wall. “This is what we were looking for.” Luz said as she pulled out a fifth of Jack Daniels, a full bag of Dum Dums and a full bottle of Ryes-In-Shine 150 proof moonshine.

“What are we celebrating?” Amity asked as she followed Luz, closing the hidden compartment. Luz slowly led them over to the furniture displays, which had some beds on display.

“Why do we have to celebrate anything?” Luz asked as she snatched a bag of red solo cups off a shelf. “Maybe I just wanted to do something special for my hard working girlfriend.” Luz said smoothly as she sat on the edge of one of the display beds. Amity gave Luz a disbelieving look. “Alright maybe I did have something in mind we’d be celebrating, but I am doing it a bit early.” Luz admitted as she opened the pack of cups and gave one to Amity.

“It’s our anniversary isn’t it?” Amity asked as she held out her cup for some of the Jack Daniels.

Luz nodded as she poured the Jack in the cup until it was about halfway full. “Our schedules rarely seem to line up and it’s only a week away so I thought we could celebrate.” Luz said as a blush formed across her cheeks. She had also poured herself half a cup of Jack and started sipping on it. Amity’s heart melted as Luz told her this

Before Amity could reply, Luz continued. “I know how important your job is and I know you enjoy helping people when they’re wrongly accused, but I wish we could spend more time together.” Luz said sadly as she sipped on her cup again.

“Luz.” Amity said sadly as she took a seat next to her girlfriend.

“I know I know. I’m being selfish, but–” Luz started to say before she was cut off by Amity kissing her passionately. The two lingered until they both had to take a breath of air.

“Luz I love you so much. You could never be selfish with how you feel about me.” Amity said as she cupped Luz's face in her hand. “How about I put in for some time off tomorrow when I go in? That way we can properly celebrate our anniversary. We could even go and visit your mom and Eda.” Amity offered as she took a swig from her cup.

Luz looked at Amity with eyes full of love. “You’d do that for me? What about your mom? You still haven’t told her we are together again.” Luz asked as she finished her cup and poured herself another half cup.

“Of course I’d do that for you and don’t worry about mom. I’ll handle her.” Amity said as she downed the rest of her cup before asking, “So how were you planning on celebrating our anniversary?”, with a sultry look in her eye.

Luz gestured at them and the bed saying, “I thought it was pretty obvious.”, with a husky tone to her voice as she set down her now empty cup. Amity giggled as she tackled Luz down to the bed and started making out with her.

“Well you better make this the best we’ve ever had then.” Amity said as she started to make her way down Luz’s body with hands and kisses.

As the two began fooling around, they heard a piece of glass break. They both sat up immediately and kept as still and as quiet as they could, keeping their ears open. A few moments later they heard the telltale wet squealing rasp followed by sharp clacks that only a clicker could make. They listened closely, trying to figure out how many infected they were dealing with.

As they listened they heard another clicker to their South; while the first one was more to their East. They were about to move when they heard the screams and grunts of a runner to their Southeast. Luz and Amity quietly got off the bed and unholstered their pistols. “If we can take out the clickers we won’t have to worry about alerting them when we take out the runner.” Amity whispered to Luz. Luz gave a nod in agreement. “I’ll follow your lead.” Luz whispered back.

The two slowly made their way towards the South to flank one of the clickers. Luz stayed close to Amity and kept her pistol out as Amity holstered hers and took out her knife, stabbing the first clicker in the neck. That was a mistake though as it let out a blood curdling screech as it died; revealing Luz and Amity’s location to the other two infected.

“Shit!” Luz exclaimed as she grabbed Amity’s hand and started running as silently as they could behind cover. They were just a tad too slow as the runner caught sight of Amity just as she got behind the cover. The runner grabbed Amity by the leg and started to pull her away. Luz lifted her pistol to shoot the runner, but was blindsided by the clicker.

Both Luz and Amity were fighting for their lives. Luz had dropped her gun and was using one arm to try and keep the clicker back as she used her other hand to try and reach for her knife on her hip. Amity was trying to keep the runner from clawing her eyes out as she was reaching for her knife that fell from her grip when she was grabbed.

As Luz finally got her knife, the clicker bit her and sunk its teeth in her lower abdomen. Luz screamed out in pain as she stabbed the side of the clickers’ head multiple times until it let go and flopped over dead.

Amity had grabbed her knife again and was about to stab the runner; until she heard Luz scream in pain. That moment of being distracted, gave the runner an opening to bite Amity’s left shoulder. Amity shrieked in pain and turned her attention back to the runner. “You son of a bitch.” Amity hissed as she stabbed the neck of the runner multiple times until it stopped moving. She then threw it off her and rushed to Luz’s side, ignoring her own pain.

“Luz are you okay?” Amity asked as she was quickly looking over Luz for injuries. Her eyes stopped on the bite mark on Luz’s abdomen.

“No, the motherfucker bit me.” Luz said enraged as she glanced over Amity and immediately clocking her own bite mark on her left shoulder. “I’d ask if you were okay, but clearly not.” Luz said as she pointed at Amity’s bite. “What the hell are we going to do now?” Luz sighed with her head in her hands.

Chapter Text

“What the hell are we going to do now?” Luz sighed as tears started to dot her eyes.

“I…I don’t know Luz.” Amity cried as she pulled Luz into her lap and cradled her. The two stayed like that for a few minutes before Luz stood.

“I won’t turn into one of those monsters, Amity. I won’t.” Luz exclaimed as she started pacing.

“What are you suggesting?” Amity asked, knowing what Luz was suggesting already.

“We could shoot each other, that way we would be sure both of us couldn’t possibly turn into one of those monsters.” Luz suggested hysterically.

“I won’t kill you Luz! I can’t.” Amity cried as tears were starting to stream down her face.

“What other option do we have!” Luz screamed at Amity, immediately regretting it. Amity, hurt, ran off to think. “Amity don’t go. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have yelled.” Luz cried, but it was too late and Amity had disappeared behind the shelving of the aisles. “Fuck!!” Luz yelled as she fell to her knees. They were both stressed about their predicament but Luz knew she shouldn’t have yelled at Amity.

Luz picked herself up and started searching for Amity. She found her pretty quickly with the bottle of Jack in her hands. Luz slowly approached her. “Amity.” Luz said softly to not spook her.

“Go away.” Amity cried.

“Amity, I'm sorry. It wasn’t right for me to yell at you. This isn’t your fault and I shouldn’t have taken it out on you. I’m-” Luz started apologizing, choking up on her feelings as tears were pouring from her face. “I’m scared Amity and I don’t want to wake up tomorrow and have no control of my body, but I shouldn’t have asked you to shoot me. That wasn’t fair.” Luz cried. Amity handed Luz the bottle and she took a swig.

“I’m scared too, Luz. I don’t want to wake up tomorrow and not be here with you. And I know I wouldn’t be able to take your life. I just can’t.” Amity cried as Luz handed her the bottle back.

“I don’t think I could take yours either.” Luz said as she was handed the bottle and finished it. “So what do we do?” Luz asked tiredly. It was almost ten pm now and they were both starting to feel the booze.

“I know it’s not what either of us want, but all we can do is ride this out, together.” Amity said as she laid her head against Luz’s. Luz sighed as she set the empty bottle on the ground before yawning.

“Well if we’re riding this out together we might as well go out comfy.” Luz said as she stood and helped pull Amity to a standing position. Luz led them through the aisles, grabbing rubbing alcohol and relatively clean rags, before coming back to the bed displays.

“Take a seat. I’m going to clean up that bite a bit.” Luz told Amity. Amity did as she was told, not questioning why Luz was cleaning the wound as it wouldn’t even matter come tomorrow morning. “This is going-” Luz began to tell Amity before she cut her off.

“Just do it.” Amity growled as she prepared for the sting.

Luz poured some alcohol on the wound and began cleaning it as Amity hissed in pain. “I’m sorry.” Luz said as she finished cleaning the wound. All that was left was a circle of teeth marks on Amity’s left shoulder.

Amity stood back up off the bed, grabbed the alcohol and rag and gently shoved Luz down in her spot. “Show me.” Amity said as she rubbed her eye with her empty hand.

Luz pulled down her pants enough to show Amity the bite mark. Once the bite was exposed, Amity got to work cleaning it, taking as much care as she could. Luz hissed in pain and Amity apologized as she finished up. Once both their bites were cleaned and Amity set the alcohol and rag down, Luz pulled Amity down onto the bed with her and wrapped herself around her.

“I love you Amity.” Luz said as her eyes were becoming heavy.

“I love you too Luz.” Amity said as she kissed Luz goodnight. Her eyes were just as heavy and soon both women were fast asleep.

Luz awoke to the sound of a blaring alarm going off. She wasn’t sure where it was coming from but it was making it hard to think straight. “Luz shut off the alarm. I don’t have to go in till later today.” Amity mumbled before she rolled over. That was when both women remembered everything that had happened last night. Amity sat straight up and looked over at Luz with tears in the corner of her eyes. “Luz? Are…Are you okay?” Amity asked hesitantly as she did a mental check on herself.

“I think so.” Luz said as she did her mental check as she sat up. “Are…Are you?” Luz asked hesitantly.

Amity nodded her head slowly. “I think so.” Amity cried as she wrapped her arms around Luz and pulled her into the tightest hug as she released a shuddering breath. The two held each other for a moment before pulling apart.

“Does this mean we’re immune?” Luz asked. “I don’t know what time it is but I know that we had to sleep for at least six hours.”

“I think so.” Amity said. “By now we’d be showing signs of infection, like tremors and profuse sweating.” They both breathed a cautious sigh of relief. “So what do we do now?” Amity asked. “We can’t stay in the QZ anymore as we’ll eventually be checked for infection.”

“I can contact Eda if we get back to our place. She’ll be able to help us and will see reason once I’ve explained how long it’s been since we’ve been bit when we meet up.” Luz explained. “What about your job? When you don’t show up, they’ll start looking for you.” Luz asked fearfully.

“Don’t worry. I have a night shift today so we’ll have time before people start looking.” Amity reassured Luz. “But we probably should get back inside the QZ before long.” Amity told Luz.

Luz nodded in agreement as she picked up their backpacks. The two left the warehouse store, after turning the power back off. It took them longer to get back to their entrance as they were more exposed out in the daylight. They were able to make it back without any incidents though. Luz helped Amity inside before she climbed through the window of the house herself. The two cautiously cleared their way back into the basement. Amity moved the pallet while letting Luz through. Once they were both inside the tunnel, Amity replaced the pallet back in front of the hole. The two took their time getting back to their apartment as they were nervous of being caught.

After about thirty-five minutes of cautious walking, the two made it back to the tunnel hole. Luz pushed the shelf out of the way before putting it back once they were both out of the tunnel. Instead of leading them to the roof, Luz led Amity to the main floor of the condemned apartment building. She led them to a rear entrance of the building and cautiously opened it. The area behind this door had been fenced off to try and prevent people from entering the condemned building. This worked out in the two women’s favor as it kept them hidden from prying eyes.

Luz took a foldable mirror out of a pocket of her backpack and used it to look over the side of the fence. Not seeing anyone around, Luz gave Amity a boost up to where she’d be able to climb over. Once she was over Luz took as much of a running start as she could towards the condemned building’s brick wall. She jumped towards the wall, planting her foot against the wall as she turned her body back towards the fence. She then forced herself off the wall with as much force she could produce from her foot, grabbing the fence and pulling herself over. Once both were over the fence, the two women entered the rear entrance of their building. They kept their heads down as they walked, linked by their hands, back to their apartment.

Once safely inside their apartment, Luz went over to her radio and tuned it to Eda’s specific frequency. “Eda do you read? Over.” Luz asked into the microphone. Luz and Amity waited nervously for a reply. They soon heard crackling over the radio before Eda spoke.

“Loud and clear. Over.” Eda replied.

“I can’t explain right now but me and Amity are in a bit of trouble and we need some help. We can get out of the QZ ourselves, but we’ll need an escort afterwards. Over.” Luz explained.

“What did you two get into? Scratch that. You can explain once we’re safe. Where should we meet? Over.” Eda asked.

“You know that house just on the outside of the QZ? Let’s meet there. We’ll be there by 8pm tonight. Over.” Luz told Eda.

“10-4 kiddo. You and Boots stay safe till then. Over and out.” Eda replied before the crackle of the radio took over.

Luz looked up at Amity as she took a shuddering breath, releasing a little of the stress she was carrying. Amity rubbed her hand along Luz’s back. “Should we contact Emira?” Luz asked.

Amity hesitantly thought it over before saying, “We can try. I’m not sure if we’ll be able to catch her signal or if she’ll respond.”, as Luz stood and gave Amity the seat in front of the radio.

Amity switched the frequency over to Emira’s specific frequency. “Emira, it’s Amity. If you can hear me, I need a response.” Amity said into the radio. She was answered back with static. After a few seconds, Amity tried again. “Emira, this is serious. If you can hear me, you need to respond.” Amity was answered by static again. Amity was about to try again, before Luz spoke into the mic.

“Emira, this is serious. If you can hear us, me and Amity need to talk to you now.” Luz demanded into the radio. The two women had given up when they finally got a response.

“I–barely–you.” Emira replied through rough static.

“Me and Luz are leaving the QZ for good. Something happened. If you can, we’ll be at Eda and Camila’s by tomorrow hopefully.” Amity spoke into the mic, hoping most of her message was received.

“You and–QZ? –happened?” Emira got through.

“We can’t explain right now. If you can, meet us at Eda and Camila’s tomorrow.” Amity told her sister.

“–meet–” is all that came through as the radio went to static.

“I hope she got the majority of our message.” Amity said as she turned to Luz.

“I think she did love.” Luz said as she pulled Amity’s head against her chest. After a quiet moment, the two of them started packing everything they might need or wanted in three duffel bags.

On the other side of the QZ in a large house, Odalia Blight sat in her high arched chair as she sipped on tea. After the outbreak, Alador’s prototype became the basis for the tool used by all Fedra officers to check for infection. This gave the Blight’s special treatment from the "government". Amity and Emira had since moved out, Emira moving to a different QZ, but Odalia was still able to keep an eye on Amity.

Just then, a lowly Fedra officer rushed in with news. “Mrs. Blight. Your daughter plans to leave the QZ. It sounds like she won’t be coming back either.” The officer relayed.

Odalia took a long sip from her cup, finishing it, before she stood from her seat. “Well that just won’t do.” She said as a sinister smile graced her face.

Luz and Amity took their time packing, making sure they took everything they wanted to take. As they packed, the two discussed what they were going to do while they waited. “We could wait here in the apartment until it’s closer, but I don’t really like that idea.” Luz offered as she handed Amity their shared copies of The Good Witch Azura books.

“Neither do I. I’d rather be close to the rendezvous point.” Amity said as she carefully placed the well loved books in their last duffel bag. They were just about done packing up.

“We could always leave right after we’re done packing and just wait in the basement until it’s closer to eight.” Luz offered.

Amity thought that over as she placed boxes of ammo in their duffel bag. “That’s not a bad idea. We’d just have to be careful of patrols.” Amity said as she zipped up their last duffel bag.

“Agreed.” Luz said as she took a seat on the floor next to Amity and rested her head against hers. “You know, as bad as the QZ is, I’m sad that we have to leave it.”

“Yeah me too.” Amity said as the two women shared the comfortable silence on the floor. After a few minutes, Amity and Luz stood and prepared to leave. Luz made sure she had her pistol and knife holstered and did the same with Amity. Luz slung her backpack on her back as well as two of the three duffels. Amity did the same with her backpack and duffel.

They walked out of their apartment and started heading down to the main floor. It was a little after noon now so most of their neighbors were out. They gave away their stash of ration slips as they passed neighbors, both to keep them quiet as well as to help them out. Once outside the back of the building the two headed to the fence they had climbed over just that morning. Luz and Amity took their duffel bags off as Luz boosted Amity up and over the fence. Once she was over, Luz started tossing their duffel bags over to her.

After the last bag was over, Luz looked at her surroundings, trying to figure out how to get over. That was when one of their neighbors and a good friend of Luz and Amity saw Luz and came over. “Hey Luz.” The man greeted. “Need some help?” He asked with a hushed tone. He knew what Luz did and assumed this was one of those times.

“You’d be a life saver, Jerbo. Here take these.” Luz said as she placed her last two weeks worth of ration slips in his hands. He went to argue, but Luz stopped him. “Look, we aren't coming back so we won’t need them.”

Jerbo reluctantly accepted them and hugged his friend. “Thank you Luz. Now let’s get you over.” Jerbo said as he got in position to boost Luz over the fence. Luz put her right foot in Jerbo’s interlaced hands and her hands on his shoulders. The two counted to three before Jerbo pushed his hands up with Luz’s foot while Luz pushed off his shoulders. Now high enough, Luz grabbed the top of the fence and pulled herself up.

She looked back down at her friend and said, “Thank you Jerbo. I hope we meet again someday.”, before climbing over the fence and dropping down to Amity’s side. The two grabbed their bags and made their way down to the basement and into their tunnel. They made their way through it slowly and before long they were in the basement of the house again.

Eda had been only 10 miles from the QZ. She needed to head home before she could go to the rendezvous point though and started the 10 mile trip back home. Once she arrived she went down to her basement to load up. She pulled out her shotgun from the holster on her back and replaced it with her scoped rifle. She then switched out ammo before heading back upstairs. Eda stopped in the kitchen to grab a snack and found Camila there. “Hola Eda.” Camila said without looking away from what she was doing. She was cleaning off vegetables from their garden out back.

“Hey Cammie. I’m heading back out and I’ll be bringing Luz and Amity back with me. We might need you to tend to injuries I’m not sure.” Eda said as she closed the pantry she was in. Camila stopped her washing immediately and turned to face Eda.

“What do you mean? Are they hurt? What’s going on?” Camila asked in rapid succession.

“Cam slow down. All I know is that Luz contacted me and told me they were in trouble but they could get out of the QZ themselves. I don’t know what trouble they're in but it didn’t sound good.” Eda explained.

“Well I’m coming too then.” Camila said as she began to take her apron off.

“Oh no. I know you can handle yourself out there, but I need to stay focused when I go get them. I can’t be worried about you and Luz at the same time.” Eda said as she placed her hand Camila’s.

Camila sighed. “Alright. You better bring my baby and her girlfriend home in one piece, Eda or you’ll have hell to pay.” Camila chastised before hugging Eda tight before saying, “Be careful.”

“I will. I promise I’ll do everything to bring them back in one piece.” Eda said before breaking the hug and heading out the door. It was about one pm now and Eda had at least six and a half hours before she would reach the outskirts of the QZ.

Once they reached the basement, Luz and Amity spent the next 7 hours talking about Azura, playing cards, and just reveling in each other’s presence. It was now 7:50 and Luz decided it was time to take a peak outside. Amity had followed her upstairs. Everything was bathed in an eerie glow as the sun hadn’t fully crossed the horizon line. From what they could see the area looked clear. Luz took out a short range walkie from her backpack and began speaking into it. “Eda, are you here? We’re ready to move.” Luz spoke into it. She was answered by the sound of static, so she repeated herself. “Eda, are you here? We’re ready to go.” No response again.

Luz got frustrated and tossed the walkie back in her bag. “Hey it’s alright Luz. Just take a couple deep breaths.” Amity said as she guided Luz through the breathing. “Why don’t we head out and start making our way towards where Eda would be coming.” Amity suggested.

Luz sighed before she helped Amity out the window. Luz followed soon after as they carefully made their way in the direction where Eda would likely come from. That was when everything went to shit.

“Freeze!” Were the next words the two women heard as they were blinded by a flashlight shined in their faces. They each were pushed to their knees as the flashlight was moved from directly in their faces. As their vision came back, they saw a smug woman with blond hair in a high ponytail looking down at them.

“Really Mittens? I’d have expected better of you.” Odalia said in her sickly sweet voice. Luz and Amity were at a loss of words so Odalia just continued. “Hanging around with the likes of her while you’re a Captain. I know I’ve taught you better. Now she has you running away with her.” Odalia said as she scoffed.

“Oh shut up Odalia.” Luz said before she was kicked in her stomach.

“You really ought to learn some manners. Now let’s get you back inside Mittens while these two officers handle your little plaything.” Odalia said before one of the officers spoke up.

“Ma’am, we have to check these two for infection before we can do anything with them. It’s a part of our handbook.” The officer informed Odalia.

“Fine. Just make it quick.” Odalia sighed.

Amity and Luz silently started to freak out as the officers brought out their testers and put it to their necks. Both testers turned red and the officers immediately drew their weapons on the two women.

“And the brat also caused you to get infected!” Odalia said exasperated. “Fine I still don’t have any use for your plaything, but maybe your father will finally be able to make a cure. Now he’ll have some real motivation.” Odalia said tiredly as if the whole encounter was a burden.

The officer holding Amity brought her to her feet as Odalia said, “Actually, I’d like my dear Mittens to witness this one’s demise.”, with a sinister grin.

The next few seconds happened quickly. Luz began struggling as the officer on top of her kneeled into her back as he placed the muzzle of his pistol against her head. Amity began struggling to break free from the officer’s grip that was holding her as she cried, “NO!”, and had tears streaming down her face. Finally, seemingly out of nowhere, a bullet went through the skull of the officer on top of Luz.

As soon as Luz felt the shift in weight, she rolled out from under the officer, jumped to her feet and punched the officer holding Amity in the head with all her strength. This dazed the officer enough for Amity to get out of his grip. Amity then spun around and kneed him in his nuts, effectively neutralizing him. All that was standing was Odalia who still had that infuriating smirk on her face. Luz and Amity soon realized why as they heard the alarm blare from the wall of the QZ and were lit up by spotlights.

“One way or another you’re coming with—“ Odalia began, only to be knocked out by Luz. The two quickly grabbed their bags and began running for cover as bullets began to fly towards them. They weren’t entirely sure from where, but as soon as a spotlight would shine on them as they moved, it would be taken out.

As they began running away from the QZ, Eda came through the walkie. “Northwest, towards the hill.” Eda spoke quickly before she flashed a small flashlight in their direction so they’d see where to head. Luz spotted it and began making a mad dash for it with Amity in hand. Eda saw through their scope that they had an army of officers rushing out. “Get to me now!” Eda exclaimed through the walkie as she started providing cover fire as well as continuing to knock out spotlights.

Luz and Amity were only a hundred feet away from Eda. That’s when Luz was shot in the shoulder and tumbled to the ground. Amity quickly picked her up as the two reached Eda. “Alright time to go.” Eda said as she slung the rifle back in its holster.

The three women didn’t stop running for thirty minutes as they tried to put as much distance between them and the QZ. They began to slow as Luz couldn’t take the pain in her shoulder any longer. Eda found a well hidden spot in the forest that surrounded Bonesborough where they could stop.

Amity gently helped Luz down before going through her backpack and pulling out their first aid supplies. Luckily the bullet went all the way through, so Amity wrapped it up as best she could before giving Luz some painkillers.

Now with a moment to breathe, Eda asked, “Okay what the hell is going on?”, breathily as she regained her breath. “I saw them use the tester on you two and it turned red!” Eda exclaimed.

“Eda let me-agh-explain.” Luz said as Amity finished up. Luz began retelling the events of the previous night and how the two women awoke with no signs of infection, emphasizing that it had been almost twenty four hours since they were bitten now.

“Damn.” Was all Eda could say. “So you think you two are what, immune?” Eda asked skeptically.

“We don’t know.” Amity answered. “All we know is that we aren’t infected after being bitten. We knew we’d eventually be tested in the QZ so we couldn’t stay there.” Amity said as she cradled Luz. They were both scared. They came really close to being separated from each other, again.

Eda sighed. “Well shit.” Eda said as she stood. “Look, we can deal with your “condition” once we get back home, but we can’t stay here. Eventually they’ll search around this area so we need to put some more ground between us and them before we stop for the night.” Eda explained as she helped the two women stand. Luz and Amity agreed and the three of them started walking again. They planned to walk for a couple hours before stopping for the night.

Back at the QZ, Odalia was furious. She refused to lose both her daughters. “Get as many men you can spare and prepare to head out by morning.” Odalia yelled at the Fedra commander.

“Mrs. Blight, we can’t just—” the commander began before he was cut off.

“Don’t make me replace you. Now do as I said or I’ll make sure your family suffers.” Odalia exclaimed cruelly.

The commander did as he was told as Odalia headed back to her manor to pack herself. ‘I’ll have you back here one way or another Mittens.’ Odalia thought to herself.

Chapter Text

The trio of Eda, Luz, and Amity walked for another three hours before they finally stopped for the night. They had put thirteen miles between them and the QZ and felt comfortable enough to take a rest.

“You two get some rest. I'll take first watch.” Eda told Luz and Amity as she checked their surroundings once more before she sat down.

Luz and Amity looked at each other, neither feeling comfortable letting Eda take the first watch. They didn't argue though as they knew it was pointless. “Okay, but I'll take the next watch in a couple hours.” Luz said to Eda as she laid out her sleeping bag.

“Alright kiddo. We’ll move out in six hours.” Eda said, having no intention of switching out with either woman. She wanted time to think about everything she'd been told.

Luz knew Eda would probably take the whole watch on by herself, but she was just too tired to argue at that point. “Sounds good. Goodnight Eda.” Luz replied as she laid down next to Amity in their sleeping bags.

It didn't take long for the two women to fall asleep, leaving Eda with her thoughts.

Odalia was fuming. Despite her threats, the Fedra soldiers returned to the QZ after searching the area within a mile of the QZ, finding no sign of the women. Forced to return empty handed, Odalia paced as she thought of her next move. She obviously couldn't, and flat out refused to, go out in search on her own. She needed soldiers.

Odalia scowled at the thought of asking for help, but refused to be bested by impotent brats. Odalia marched to the security room in her manor and commanded everyone out. She took a seat in front of the high frequency radio and switched to the frequency she needed.

“This is Odalia Blight from the Bonesborough QZ. Who am I speaking with?” Odalia spoke calmly.

It was a moment before a response was given. “This is Colonel Lilith Clawthorne.” Lilith began. She had more to say but Odalia bulldozed over her.

“Miss Clawthorne I need you to inform Phillip that I need to speak with him and it's of the utmost urgency. Tell him I'm cashing in my favor.” Odalia spoke condescendingly, purposely not using Lilith’s rank.

“I will inform him right away.” Lilith replied with a level voice, keeping her irritation out of her voice.

“I’ll be waiting.” Odalia spoke with a sneer, knowing she got under Lilith’s skin.

Lilith did not give Odalia another response, instead headed straight to Phillip’s office. She didn’t dare speak her mind as she knew Odalia had a close business type of relationship with the Emperor. Lilith reached Philip’s office and straightened herself before knocking. “Come in.” Lilith heard from the other end of the door.

Lilith entered the office before kneeling. “Emperor, Odalia Blight is wishing to speak with you. She says it’s of the utmost urgency and that she is cashing in her favor.” Lilith relayed as she stood.

“Oh is she now? Well we best not keep her waiting then.” Phillip replied as he made his way to the door. Lilith followed closely as they made their way back to the command center. Upon reaching the command center, Philip told Lilith, “Say out here while I chat with Mrs. Blight.”, before walking through the door and dismissing everyone from the room.

Phillip took a seat and spoke into the microphone. “Mrs. Blight, what would be the pleasure of needing to speak so urgently at a late hour?” Phillip asked calmly with practiced condescension.

Odalia hated the way speaking to the Emperor made her feel, but she collected herself. “Your grace, my daughter Amity has gone and absconded the QZ with the Owl Lady’s protege, Luz Noceda. Not only that but the brat also got herself and my Mittens infected.” Odalia began to explain before continuing.

“The Fedra soldiers of the QZ searched a mile out from the QZ but found no sign of them. Now you know how much I care for my daughter as well as the potential her infection brings. I’d like to ask for a platoon of soldiers to take and track not only my daughter down, but also the brat she ran away with and the Owl Lady, who helped them escape.” Odalia finished.

It was silent for a moment and Odalia thought that Phillip might deny her. “You do understand that calling in this favor will be the last of your pull with me, correct?” Phillip asked mostly rhetorically.

“I understand but I also believe you’ll want to be involved on the potential cure that may come from Amity’s infection, but yes I understand I’ll have used up my standing with you.” Odalia replied coolly, even though she was sweating bullets.

“A possible cure is intriguing, but until such a thing is proven possible, this will be the last of my good will. I will send you a platoon of 28 soldiers headed by Colonel Clawthorne and my nephew Captain Hunter Whittebane giving you a total of 30 soldiers.” Phillip explained before continuing.

“But let me make it very clear. You are not in charge of my soldiers. That is the job of Lilith and Hunter. If I receive word back from either of them that you try to impose yourself among any of the platoon, I will pull them back and leave you wherever you may be. Do I make myself clear?” Phillip threatened.

Odalia unconsciously nodded as she said, “Crystal my Emperor.”

“Marvelous. I will send the platoon out at first light to meet you outside of the Bonesborough QZ. I do hope you find your daughter before she turns Mrs. Blight. It’d be terrible to lose all of your children.” Phillip said viscously before leaving the microphone.

Phillip exited the room and gestured to Lilith to follow. “Lilith I need you and Hunter to form a group of 28 soldiers. You and him are going to lead them in the hunt for Miss Amity Blight, Miss Luz Noceda and Eda “The Owl Lady” Clawthorne.” Phillip explained as Lilith’s stomach dropped. She hadn’t talked to her sister in years. The last time they spoke was two years before the outbreak happened.

“Mrs. Blight informed me that Amity and Luz have been infected so you’ll need to be cautious when approaching them as they will probably be turned. Mrs. Blight wants Amity brought back alive.” Phillip finished explaining as he reached his office.

“Now you better get moving as I informed Mrs. Blight you’d meet her outside of the Bonesborough QZ by first light, which is only six hours away so you better hurry.” Phillip said as he entered his office and closed the door in Lilith’s face.

Lilith stood in front of Phillip’s door for a moment, collecting herself before she headed off to quickly put the platoon together.

Eda wasn’t sure when she fell asleep, but when she awoke, she was in a sleeping bag while Luz was on watch. Eda looked around and didn’t spot Amity and sat up and stretched. “How long have I been out?” Eda asked, startling Luz a bit.

“Morning Eda. Um well you were asleep when I took over for Amity an hour ago, so at least that long.” Luz answered as she turned her attention back to the forest. Eda noticed Luz looking, searching for signs of something or someone.

“I see. Where is Amity anyways?” Eda asked as she popped and cracked as she stood.

“She went to scout the area ahead as well as forage for breakfast.” Luz replied with a smile before it fell.

“She’s been gone for fifteen minutes now though and I’m starting to get worried.” Luz said as the sound of snapping twigs drew her attention. Amity came walking out from behind a tree with what was about two handfuls of berries in a plastic baggie. Luz jumped from her spot and wrapped Amity in a tight hug.

“You scared me.” Luz said into Amity’s shoulder before pulling back to look into Amity’s eyes.

“I’m sorry for scaring you. I wanted to be sure the area ahead was clear and it took me a bit longer.” Amity replied as she caressed Luz’s face with her hand before she noticed Eda was awake now.

“How’d you sleep Eda?” Amity asked as she and Luz headed back to their impromptu camp.

“Ehhh I’ve slept in worse places.” Eda replied with a chuckle before asking, “How long was I out for?”, with a yawn.

“Well you were asleep when I woke up, which was about four hours ago, so at least that long.” Amity replied as she sat down and prepared the berries she had foraged.

“So how much farther do you think we have left?” Luz asked as she ate a few of the berries as well as some dried meat.

“Well judging by our surroundings, I’d say we made good progress last night. We’re probably only six or seven miles away.” Eda replied as she gnawed on a piece of jerky.

“What—what are we going to tell mamí when we get there?” Luz asked nervously.

Eda cringed at the question. She had thought of what to tell Camila the whole way to the QZ the night prior, but everything she thought of wouldn’t be of help. “I’m…not sure kid. I’ve been thinking it over but nothing feels right. I’m afraid we’ll just have to wait and see when we get there.” Eda admitted.

The group fell into a lull of silence as they picked up their makeshift camp and continued their way to, what Eda and Luz called, the Owl House. Both Eda and Luz had walked this path many times but Amity had only been a few times. Despite everything with the Outbreak, Amity couldn’t help but admire the beauty around her. It was late September and the leaves were just starting to change their colors. With the early morning sun shining through and brisk autumn air, Amity felt almost nostalgic. It was a weird sensation, like finding peace in the middle of a storm.

Amity thought about that while the group trudged on. Just ahead of Amity, Luz and Eda talked seriously. “I’m scared, Eda. We’ve seen first hand what happens when someone is infected. I’m afraid that I’ll start to turn at any moment.” Luz spoke quietly. She wasn’t hiding her feelings from Amity but she also didn’t want to frighten her with that thought.

“I know kiddo. It’s a scary situation. There had always been whispers with that Firefly group of a possible cure, but for it to possibly be real? I could never believe that. I’m still having a hard time believing it.” Eda admitted. “You know how much I care for you and that care extends to Boots, but…this is uncharted territory. We don’t know what’s happening with you two and it’s…it’s…it’s scary.”

“I know. I’m scared too and whether Amity will say it, I know she is too.” Luz sighed in agreement. “All we can do is take it one day at a time.”

The conversation lulled as the trio continued walking towards the Owl House.

Back at the QZ, Odalia was waiting impatiently just outside the walls of the QZ. She was in a foul mood and it was only getting fouler the longer she waited. She didn’t wait much longer as she heard the sound of engines coming towards her. Out of the surrounding forest, six military humvees circled around the area Odalia was standing. Out of the lead humvee’s driver door, stepped out a tall woman with fiery red hair and cerulean eyes. She had a pale skin tone that was mostly covered by her tactical gear, that clearly indicated her rank.

Following her out of the passenger door of the Humvee, was a young man, no more than twenty four years old, with blonde hair and brown eyes. He had an olive skin tone and scars that crisscrossed all over his body. Most were covered by his tactical gear which, like Lilith’s, clearly indicated his rank. He wore an annoyed expression on his face as he stood next to Lilith in front of Odalia. Lilith leveled Odalia a sinister grin before speaking. “Are you ready Mrs. Blight? We really need to get a move on as we have a lot of ground to cover.”

“Yes I’m ready. I was told you’d be here at first light and that was half an hour ago.” *tsk tsk* “I thought Phillip was sending his best to help me track down my daughter and that ungrateful brat she ran away with. I guess I assumed wrong.” Odalia chastised with a sneer, knowing it would get under Lilith’s skin.

“We ran into an obstacle on our way here. You’ll be riding with me and Hunter as we search. Now let’s get a move on.” Lilith said with a frown that creased her face. This was going to be a long mission, Lilith could just tell. Lilith, Hunter and Odalia all loaded back into the lead Humvee before heading towards the direction Odalia said the shots had come from last night.

After about three hours of walking, the Owl House came into view. It really was a strange looking house. It looked normal mostly, but it had a tower on one side of it and a giant stained glass window above the front door. Eda had told Luz once that she had found it abandoned while she was hiding out and kind of just stayed there. Eda moved Camila in with her at Luz’s request not long after she fixed it up.

“Well we made it you two.” Eda said as she breathed a sigh of relief as she unlocked the security fence she built around the property. Once the three of them were within the fence, Eda resecured it and began heading towards the house. She stopped for a moment before turning to Luz and Amity and said, “Let…let me go in first and talk to Camila. She’s going to be on edge when she learns of you two’s…condition.”, before turning back and heading inside.

Luz and Amity found a bench to sit on as they waited for the two older women to come back outside. They could hear arguing from inside the house before they heard Camila shout, “THEY’RE WHAT!?”

“Well sounds like mama knows now.” Luz said with a half hearted chuckle before the front door nearly came off its hinges as Camila slammed it open and rushed outside.

“I think you're right.” Amity replied as her and Luz were getting a searing stare down from Camila. This was not going to be a fun conversation.