Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

I snuck through the forest, Yara and Lev just a step behind me. The only light was in the distance. Following a random light source was dangerous, I knew that, but there was still a chance it could be a way out. I had been in this forest for at least two hours, trying to get as far away from my own kind, the Seraphites. They couldn’t know that I’m helping the Apostates, I would be hanged for such an act. The sun had set, leaving most of the forest dark and cold. The rain didn’t help with that, soaking my clothes, causing me to shiver slightly. I paused, a noise coming from the same direction as the light caught my attention.

Grunting, Screaming, Gasping.

I slid behind a nearby tree and signaled to Yara and Lev to be quiet. Silently, I got closer, sneaking between trees and bushes. Being invisible and silent was the most vital at this moment. This area was unfamiliar, causing me to be more cautious than normal. The light source finally came into view. A car on fire. Odd, but not surprising for an Apocalyptic world. The other thing that quickly caught my attention was what seemed to be a wolf, being hung, ready to be gutted. Surrounded by Seraphites. Fuck, they’re everywhere . Around them, hanging from trees, were other people. They were already gutted, dead. Even though I had seen people gutted before, it never failed to send a shiver down my spine. Things like that made me glad I’m a Snooper and not a Solider. My eyes fell on wolf. I felt a little sorry for it, being gutted is a horrible way to die.

Usually, when we encountered other Seraphites, Yara would whistle to get their attention. They would grab her, give her a little talking to while Lev and I snuck up behind them and slash their throats. It was simple. It had worked for all the other Seraphites we had come across. But, these ones felt different. Their gazes and stances seemed to be more focused and on edge. Not a good sign, but nonetheless we had to get rid of them. Me and Lev hid as Yara whistled. They quickly chased her, catching her soon after. Two of them had grabbed her by the arms, dragging her to the female Seraphite. She must have high authority, though I didn’t recognize her. Yara wrestled against them, trying to break free. “Yara,” the female Seraphite said calmly. She had an authoritative voice. She woman bent over to be face level with Yara. Her gaze was intense like she could see right through Yara “Where is the other apostate?” Yara spat on her face and smirked. I think Yara knew this Seraphite and didn’t like her. It was odd for Yara to spit in someone’s face. The woman’s face darkened. “Clip her wings.” The Seraphite said while straightening her posture and wiping the spit off her face.

Oh God , my breath hitched. I hadn’t expected that, and so soon. I looked over at Lev. He stared at Yara for a second before finding my gaze. I gestured for him to go round and shot them. He nodded and quickly began moving. I had to get rid of these Seraphites as fast as possible. They were quickly becoming a problem. Problems get in the way of progress.

The two male Seraphites forcefully pulled Yara to the ground. The one on the right pulled a hammer out of his left pocket and brought it up in the air before slamming it down onto Yara’s arm. Her screams were loud. My heart ached. Out off all the years I had known Yara, I had never heard her scream like that. She got injured of course but she was lucky enough to never have had very serious injuries. I had once joked that her luck wouldn’t last forever. I regretted that joke now. Her screams just ripped my body apart, I had to force myself to stay still and to just breath.

After three hammer smashes to Yara’s left arm, the hammer was passed to the other Seraphite holding her down. The man barely even lifted the hammer before an arrow soared through the air and into his neck. Then his chest. He quickly fell to the ground. The other male Seraphite looked in the direction Lev had shot in. Swiftly, Yara grabbed the hammer with her right hand and swang the hammer straight into the Seraphite’s face. The female Seraphite aimed her gun at Yara. Lev shot at her, missing, taking her attention from away from Yara and to him as she began shooting at him. She shot aimlessly into the forest, missing Lev. This seemed like the best time to reveal myself. I stood up and slowly began to walk toward the remaining Seraphite. She backed up as she saw me approaching. Followed by Yara standing up, hammer in hand. I smirked. She was cornered. She wasn’t going to be a problem for much longer. Unexpectedly, the Seraphite began choking. The wolf had wrapped her legs around the Seraphite’s neck. The Seraphite clawed at the wolf’s legs, attempting to free herself. I had completely forgotten about the wolf. I guess that I was too focused on Yara. Without thought, I looked her up and down. Damn, she’s ripped. I could practically see her legs muscles pulsing beneath her pants. Admittedly, I was staring, but how could I not? Even through her pants I could tell she was buff, it’s impressive. I averted my gaze from her legs, realizing that I had been staring a little too long. I turned my attention to the last Seraphite. She was still struggling under the wolf. Yara ran forward, slamming the hammer into the Seraphites face before falling to the ground with a thud. The wolf released the Seraphite, leaving herself to hang and choke. She swung back and forth, slowly losing oxygen.

 Lev emerged from the forest, running to check on Yara. She had crawled to a nearby broken piece of concrete to lean on. As he knelt beside her, a worried look engulfed his face. He quickly noticed the wolf and looked at me, seeming looking for what to do. I thought for a second before speaking, “Cut her down, Lev.” I exclaimed, approaching them.

“But, she’s one of them-“

“Please, Lev.” I gave him a pleading look. He needed to trust me on this. She could be helpful, those muscle would very useful. He didn’t protest any further and grabbed his knife. After quickly finding the rope holding her up, he began to cut it.

“Demons are drawing near,” Lev announced, his knife sawing the rope. With the snap of the rope, the wolf fell, landing on her side. She gasped, finally able to breath. Lev quickly got behind her and cut the rope binding her hands. I stood over her, showing some dominance up front. She quickly took the noose off her neck. After looking around for a second, she crawled to grab the hammer from the Seraphites face. As she stood, her eyes meet mine. She honestly looked liked she had been through hell and back. This was good thing though, she was desperate - desperate enough to help us.

“Stand your ground. They’re coming.” Yara said, standing up.

The wolf turned towards the forest, “Watch your backs.” She replied, her stance becoming more firm. Lev drew back his bow, Yara stood next to him. I grabbed my bow from over my shoulder. Drawing it back as I turned around, ready to defend myself against the demons. They began to emerge from the forest. The first one came at Lev, he easily shot it in the neck. Three more, two at the wolf and one at me. I let it get a little closer before shooting it in the head, killing it instantly. I could hear the wolf beating the demons from behind.

I heard a snap.

“Fuck!” Says the wolf, she had broken the hammer, her only weapon. She looked around, seemly on the watch for more demons. Quickly afterword, Yara grabbed a torch and lit it with the car that was on fire.

“Follow me. Stay close to us, wolf.” Yara exclaimed. Lev, the wolf, and I quickly followed her as she guided us all through the forest. It seemed like Yara had been here before, I assumed for some casual patrols. For a few years Yara had stuck doing regular patrols instead of mission assignments, it wouldn’t be surprising if she had been here and not me.

“Where are we going?” The wolf asked, even though she was already following Yara.

 “Anywhere but here.” Yara exclaimed. The demons were close behind. The sounds of the demons seemed to get closer, but I wasn’t sure if they were or if it was the adrenaline talking. Their snarling just creeps the shit out of me. Yara’s head turned behind her, “Just a little more this way.” Before I could even process what she had said, a demon had jumped out of the forest and on top of Yara.

“Yara!” I cried out, quickly running forward. I had barely ran four steps before the wolf dashed forward and grabbed the demon, swiftly snapping its neck. Oh my , I took a very much needed sigh of relief but that relief wouldn’t last long much longer. More demons had appeared, running out of the forest one by one. Quickly, the wolf grabbed an empty glass bottle off the ground and smashed it over a demon’s head. Impressive .

I turned around, knife in hand. One suddenly appeared infront of me. It charged, I pointed my knife as it approached. Once it got close enough, I shoved it in the demons neck. Not just that, I grabbed its shoulder and flipped it on its back. That was my favorite trick when fighting the demons. Almost immediately after, another one had sprouted from the forest but this time closer to me. Before I could react, it jumped on top of me. The suddenly hit to the ground shoot the air out straight of my lungs. Oh fuck. “Get off me!” I cried out, grabbing its shoulders to keep its face away from my body. I struggled, these demons were strong. Hearing my yell, Lev drew back his arrow and shoot it in the neck. As its body fell onto of me, I aggressively kicked it off.

“That seems like all of them. For now at least,” says the wolf. She turned around, panting a bit. “You guys good?”

I hesitated before replying, “Yeah.” I shoot to my feet, glaring down at the demon’s body. I glanced around at Lev and Yara, making sure they were okay. Yara noticed my worried expression and nodded, reassuring me that they were okay. I tried to clear my thoughts and steady my mind. I needed to focus and try calm. 

“We should keep moving before more come,” Yara said before turning around and running through some more trees.

“Are you sure you know where you’re going?” The wolf asked.

“I’ve been here a few times.” Yara replied.

“Have you been here at night?”

“It should be around here..” Yara said, muttering to herself. The wolf just sighed but continued following her. This is when I finally began to recognize the area. I had come here with Yara before when we were patrolling. While we were out, a wolf had stabbed me in the arm, forcing me to head back to base which is why I hadn’t recognized the area sooner. Even after remembering the area, I wasn’t sure where we were  headed but I assumed Yara knew where she was going. “Just a little further.” Yara said.

Once we moved, a fallen road came into my vision. Cars and vines were between the ground and the road, leaving space in between though I couldn’t see it. Yara knelted down, Lev following and kneeling down beside her. Lev pulled back some vines, revealing a way under the road. Yara crawled though, followed by me, the wolf, and finally Lev. Inside were some dead bodies, the blood still bright red. I tried to ignore them, getting out of here was the priority. I continued walking, following Yara. “Theses are fresh,” the wolf exclaimed, a little exhaustion in her voice. “Is there another path we could take?”

“If there was, would we be going this way?” Lev remarked, his head tilted a little to the side.

 I looked behind me at Lev and the wolf, “We shouldn’t linger.” It was a not so subtle hint for them to hurry up. When we walked a little further I noticed a fence that we could crawl under. I knelt down by the fence and tried to pull it back. Lev and Yara were couched beside me. I pulled a few times before the wolf spoke up. 

“I got it,” she said, watching me from behind. I sighed before scooting over. I doubt that she’s much stronger than me , I thought. I had been an archer since I was thirteen. Being skilled in the bow and arrow for six years puts quite a lot of muscle on someone. The confidence of my strength was quickly shoot down as the wolf effortlessly pulled the fence back. My ego honestly put a bit of a hit. Jeez, I need to bulk up.  “Go ahead,” she said still holding the fence. Lev crawled through while Yara stuck the torch in a pile of water to put it out. She threw the stick aside before crawling though with Lev’s help. After she made it through, I followed. While crawling through I heard a thud and then grunting. I quickly look up to see another Seraphite, sledgehammer in hand. Yara had fallen to the ground while the Seraphite started to choke Lev. Rage clouded my mind. I shot to my feet and grabbed my knife.

“Get off him, bitch!” I yelled before running at her. She glanced at me for a second before letting go off Lev and grabbing me by the shoulders. My knife didn’t even get the chance to touch her before she body slammed me onto the ground. I gasped as the air left my lungs. The sudden impact caused my knife to fall out of my hand and landing beside me. I tried to fight back, pushing her shoulders away from me.

The Seraphite smirked, “Oh, look here. You’re helping the apostates. I knew you had a soft spot for them but I didn’t think you’d do something like this,” the Seraphite proclaimed. “She believed in and guided you, and you responded by helping them?” I gritted my teeth, not responding. I clearly looked mad, my face red and brows scrunched. She knew she was getting under my skin - I hated that feeling. She chuckled. “You’re pathetic.” She quickly reached to the side of me, grabbing my knife. Without hesitation, she shoved the knife into my left shoulder. My scream pierced through the air. Oh my fucking… that hurts!! I began to breath hard and fast. I tried to steady my breathing to no avail. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see the blood beginning to stain my shirt.

For second, I honestly forgot were was a wolf with us but she reminded me that she was there by tackling the Seraphite off of me. In my peripheral vision, I could see them beginning wrestling on the ground. I winced, my shoulder hurt like hell. T his is going to be so fun with no medicinal supplies. I grabbed my shoulder, attempting to cover the wound even though the knife was still in it. I looked around and noticed Yara and Lev huddled together away from the Seraphite, leaning against the fence. I crawled towards them with all my strength. The wolf and Seraphite continued to fight and struggle.

I slumped beside them, “You guys okay?” I mouthed, sitting up. They nodded, both looking at my shoulder as I held onto it. “I’m fine,” I muttered. “Don’t worry about me.” I leaned my head back and attempted to slow down my breathing.

“Are you wearing my backpack?!” I heard the wolf say in the distance. Her backpack? She must have encountered this Seraphite before. I tried to keep my thoughts off my wound. After a little bit, I heard someone scream.

“NO- WAIT!!!”

 I looked up to see the wolf smash the sledgehammer into the Seraphite’s face. I winced. It was gruesome but I knew she had to do it. I stood up, Yara and Lev following suit, and walked over to the wolf. “You good?” Asked the wolf, she said it to everyone but mostly to me and Yara.

I nodded, “I’m fine.” I knew I wasn’t going to be. My knife was big and sharp and it was now deep in my shoulder. “Give me a second,”I said, kneeling down. I took a big breath before pulling the knife out of my shoulder. Throwing it aside before ripping the right sleeve off my shirt, wrapping it around my wound as a made shift bandage. I grabbed my knife and stood up. “Let’s get going.” 

We all walked forward towards a garage door. I stood infront of it as the wolf lifted it open, effortlessly again. Man, this woman makes my biceps look like peanuts. I stole a quick glance at her triceps. They were indeed impressive. Yara and I ducked through as Lev helped the wolf hold it. Once I entered I began to look around - not touching anything, just observing. I assumed that it was sort of an old car repair shop. Cars where lift in the air a bit with work benches around. I took a deep breath. A break was definitely what I needed, even for just a second. “Don’t get too comfortable,” the wolf said, walking past me. “We’re not out of the woods yet. Pun fucking intended.” I knew that she was right. There was mostly likely another obstacle just ahead. This whole area just seems to be a maze that is full of enemies.

Chapter Text

I could see the wolf looking around. She was going though anything that would open, a drawer, a locker, you name it. I watched her intently. Even though she had saved our lives, I couldn’t help but still not feel safe around her. Y’know, wolfs and Seraphites aren’t known to mix well.

“Take whatever you can find,” she said, looting through a drawer.

“We can’t touch this, it’s old world,” Lev replied. He was a little taken aback.

“We have preserve what was left,” you added, walking over towards Lev and Yara. In the Seraphites, once someone becomes a snooper or solider, they are taught not to touch anything they find. It’s important to leave things where they are. “Preserve the beauty of the past,” is what they would say. I had gotten used to not using anything I found, even when I desperately needed it.

The wolf scoffed, “You need supplies. You don’t know what’s out there.” Ignoring the wolf, I put a hand on Yara’s left shoulder, gently patting it. I gave her a reasserting smile, which she returned. Looking over at Lev, I grinned. His R.B.F. was extra intense right now. He was watching the wolf as she moved through the room. He seemed to feel just has uncomfortable around the wolf as I did.

I leaned towards him, “Don’t let this darken your spirit. Remember, she is guiding us.”The edges of his lips lifted a little, turning into a small smile.

Honestly, I didn’t believe in our beliefs anymore. After years of being a Snooper, I realized just how crazy the Seraphites were. We were what the wolfs called, “a cult”. I had read about cults in an abandoned library once and I had to agree that we were one. The only issue was that Yara and Lev were still firm believers. I couldn’t bring myself to let them know I didn’t believe anymore - so I just pretended I still did. Even though it felt weird, it brought Yara and Lev comfort and that’s all that mattered.

I bobbed my head, pointing to the doorway as I began walking towards it. Yara and Lev followed closely behind. “Never seen Scars going after Scars before,” the wolf remarked as she entered the next room.

“Seraphites.” I barked, peaking through the door way. Scars… being called that just put such a sour feeling over an already unpleasant situation. Yara and Lev walked past me as I stood by the door, still seething at the Scars comment.

“What the hell did you do?”

“I shaved my head,” said Lev.

“Fine, don’t tell me. I really don’t care.” the wolf replied with a hint of annoyance in her voice. I grinned a little while following behind Lev. She thought that he was lying, that felt kinda nice after everything we had went through. As the wolf moved through the room Yara, Lev, and I followed. The wolf paused to look through a locker, Yara and Lev passed by her but I stopped and stood behind her. I had question that had been lingering in my head since we met. It took a second before she noticed me, “What?” Said the wolf, standing up and turning around. Her broad build loomed over me. Woah, she’s tall . Her height kinda caught me off my guard.

I took a step back and cleared my throat. “Why were those Seraphites trying to gut you?” I asked, putting my right hand on my hip. If she had done something terrible, I had the right to know. I was traveling with kids for crying at out loud.

“Why does it matter? Don’t they try to kill everyone?” She replied, subtly reminding me that Yara and Lev were being hunted by them too. “You scared I’ll harm the kids or something?” She crossed her arms and leaned a little forward. It felt a bit threatening.

I was a bit caught off guard by how direct that response was, “No-I’m.. I care about those kids,” my tone became more tender, “I just want to know who we’re getting involved with.” I really hoped that was a safe answer, one that would help her tell me what happened.

Her body relaxed, “I just so happened to stumble into their territory,” she leaned back against the locker behind her, “They attacked me so I defended myself… and obviously they didn’t like that.” I nodded, it seemed like she was just a random straggler who got unintentionally invoked with the Seraphites. I was really thinking about that answer. I wondered if she was telling me the truth, It was obviously plausible. I’m just being paranoid.

The wolf’s voice interrupted my thoughts, “What, you approve of that answer?” She smirked, leaning forward a bit. It seemed to have an undertone that I didn’t quite understand.

I shifted awkwardly, “Well, it’s a valid reason,” I muttered, trying to justify why I was thinking about it for so long. The immediate silence that followed was too uncomfortable for me to bear. “We should get moving,” I said before walking to next room.

The next room seemed to be a shop, shelfs everywhere and a counter in the corner. The wolf was definitely intrigued, she rushed past me. As expected, she started looting. Her eyes were wide as she looked around. I rolled my eyes and I joined Yara and Lev by the bathroom, it was through the next doorway. Yara leaned against the wall, gently holding her bashed arm. She looked over at me. “You’ve bled through the cloth,” her voice sounded worried, even though she had no reason to worry, considering her bashed arm and all.

I looked and indeed I was. It hadn’t even been fifteen minutes and I was already bleeding through it. Great, this is just great. “Damn,” I grumbled. Realizing just how much blood I was losing also made me realize that I had started feeling a bit light headed. I looked up at ceiling, trying to focus on every detail of the pattern. This was my attempt to distract myself from the light headedness. I secretly hoped that the wolf would find a med-kit while looting. Soon after, the wolf finished looking around and walked past me, heading into the next room. I followed after her. The next room was probably a storage closet or something but it was almost impossible to tell. There was a giant hole in the corner, opening up back into the forest. I was beginning to get sick this forest and it’s endless trees. I sighed which caused the wolf to glance at me. Hers eyes widened ever so slightly. I figured she noticed the red seeping through the cloth. I just nonchalantly walked through the hole, followed by Lev, Yara, and the wolf. There was clear path ahead and some stairs further up.

“The coast is just up ahead.” Yara said. Right after she spoke, I heard the sound of more demons. I grumbled as I pulled out my pistol from my holster. Even while injured I could still defend myself. Two demons came running out of the forest. I took a step forward while aiming my pistol at one of them.

“Stay behind me!” The wolf yelled before rushing infront of me. She grabbed her rifle, quickly shooting one down while Lev shot the other.

Lev, Yara, and I hung back as the wolf moved forward. She seemed to take the lead in getting out of here. Two more demons came running down the path. The wolf grabbed a machete from her bag, I assumed she had found it while looting since I hadn’t seen her grab it. She dashed forward, slashing one of the demon’s in the neck. As that demon fell down, she kicked the other one to the ground. Slamming her right foot down on its stomach then smashing its face in with her left. I found myself watching her in awe. She killed them so effortlessly and swiftly, I couldn’t help but admire that. We followed her as she continued down the path. The rain seemed to get harder, my hair was soaked though I couldn’t find it in me to care, we had more to worry about. Turning left lead into another building. Once we entered, I noticed it was an office building, an old computer and desk sat in the corner. A big hole was in the middle of the room, leading to a downstairs. With no other choice, we all jumped down. Once I hit the ground, I heard a familiar groan. More demons. The hit to the ground made me feel a little feel queasy. I tried my best to keep a straight face.

The wolf quickly ran towards one of the demons, shooting it in the face. The other one jumped on her from the side, I immediately shot it with my pistol. That was probably the fastest I’ve reacted to something all day. It seemed like my exhaustion had me extremely on edge and man - shooting that demon felt incredible.

She looked over at me. “Thanks,” she quickly exclaimed before standing up. She walked forward towards a double door, leading to the outside. She tried pushing it, nada. There was a gate barricading the door. Looking up she noticed there was an open window. “I get you through there, you’ll open the gate, right?” She said, turning towards us.

“We’ll open it.” Lev replied, walking towards her. She boosted him up and through the window, two more times for Yara and me. While I helped Yara down, Lev tried to move the gate, to no avail. “It’s jammed,” Lev exclaimed. Through the door, I could hear more demons.

“Oh fuck!” The wolf shouted, turning around.

I stared at the wolf for a second before turning around, “We’ve got to find another way to get her out of there,” I said. Yara and Lev nodded. I looked around the door and window to see if there was anything, nothing. Running around the right side, I looked around there too. Nothing but a brick wall. Fuck, I’m wasting time .

“Over here!” Yara shouted. I followed her voice, which lead me to the left side of the building. All that was over there was an ambulance, halfway through the wall.

I exhaled in relief, “Perfect!” I said, grabbing one of the doors. I pulled back as hard as I could but it barely moved, “Lev, a little help, please.” He came from behind me, grabbing the door. I could hear the clickers inside. The wolf’s faint grunting and gasping became audible. “One, two, three!” I grumbled as we pulled the door. It creaked as it swung back, causing me and Lev to stumble. I turned to Lev, “I got it,” I proclaimed, crawling into the ambulance. Me and Yara were already injured - I couldn’t let Lev get hurt. I made my way to the front of the car. Thankfully, the windows were already gone, making it easier to communicate to the wolf. “Wolf!” I yelled, “Over here!” That’s when I noticed just how many demons there were. They were coming every direction. If I had come any later, she would have been completely surrounded. Her eyes meet mine, as she quickly turned around. “Hurry!” I shouted. She turned her attention away from the demons and to me and the ambulance. She ran, climbing the hood of the car. As we crawled through the ambulance, a demon struck its head through one of the windows. Its head uncomfortably close to wolf.

“Go!” The wolf screamed. Finally, we made it through to doors, jumping out. The wolf had fallen out of the ambulance, seemingly tripped by a demon that was now hanging out of the door. Lev stabbed its head with a knife as Yara closed the door. She slowly fell to the ground, grunting. The wolf walked over of her, crouching by her side.

“I-I’m fine.. just give me a minute.” Yara panted.

“You’re gonna wanna hold on tight.” The wolf said, placing her arms under Yara’s knees and back.

“Okay.” Yara muttered before being lifted up by the wolf. God, it was so effortless. The wolf began walking, Lev and I followed closely behind.

“Aaah, my arm!” Yara cried.

“I know.” The wolf said, a sympathetic tone in her voice. “I need you to focus on your breathing. In and out. In and out.” Yara followed as she said, calmly and slowly breathing in and out. I took her advice too, my lightheadedness had come back - a bit stronger this time. We walked through an old shipping container, on the other side was a bunch of tiny homes. “Try the doors,” the wolf grunted, “Make sure there’s no one.” Lev tried the first door ahead, I went for the one further away.

“It’s locked,” Lev said, running towards a different home.

I tried the door, it was locked too. “Same with this one.” After a few seconds I heard a door open. I turned to see Lev opening one of the doors. Thank goodness .

“Wolf!” He called, holding the door open. The wolf walked inside, followed by me. I was close behind the wolf out of worry for Yara. Once we entered, Lev joined us all, closing the door behind him.

“Lock it,” the wolf barked with exasperation. Lev quickly locked it. The wolf walked into the next room, inside was a couch. Perfect. She walked over, kneeled down, and gentle layed Yara on the couch. I rushed over, standing near the edge of the couch. The wolf walked over to the window, checking the area through the blinds.

Yara tried to take off her buttoned up shirt. “Come help me with this,” Yara called to Lev. He walked over and assisted her in taking it off, leaving her in a tank top. Once her shirt was off, I could see just how red and swollen her arm was. My heart sunk. Oh, my poor baby . She noticed Lev and I’s worried faces. “It just needs to be set,” Yara said, mostly to Lev. She turned towards the wolf, “Do you know how make a splint?” The wolf turned around and subtly nodded.

“Cut that into strips,” she said to Lev while taking off her backpack. She turned to me, “Break a leg off that chair.” I looked to my right to see the chair, I nodded. The wolf kneeled beside Yara, “I’m gonna move it, okay?” She waited for Yara to nod. She gently grabbed Yara’s arm and rested it beside her. The wolf adjusted her grip on Yara’s arm, around the bone. “You ready?”

“Yeah,” Yara quietly replied. I walked over to the chair and pushed it on its side. I leaned on my left leg and smash down on the leg with my right. That’s when it heard the wolf snap Yara’s arm back into place. I couldn’t even imagine the pain that she was in, the worst thing that ever happened to her before this was a shot to the shin, and even then she recovered rather quickly. I walked over to the wolf, handing her the chair leg. Lev handed her the strips of fabric too. She leaned over Yara again and started to make a splint around her arm. I leaned against the wall behind me, silently taking a deep breath. As the wolf was making Yara’s splint, Yara looked up at the wolf, “What’s your name?” She chocked.

The wolf finished the splint and look at her, her eyes seemed to soften. “Abby.” She quietly replied.

Abby. It felt nice putting a name to the face, but this was me getting to know her more personally. Getting attached wasn’t something any of us needed right now. Abby leaned over and grabbed her backpack, swinging it over her shoulder before standing up. She glanced at Yara while putting the other strap over her shoulder. She headed out of the room. I caught Lev’s eye and gestured for him to stay with Yara. I straightened my posture and followed behind the wolf. Once she got outside, I started to close the door but she suddenly grabbed the door, stopping it from closing. She leaned inside the gap between the door, looking at me.

“This place tends to get a lot of people,” she started, “Whatever shape she’s in, you need to get her out of here by the morning.”

My gaze sharpened. Does she think I’m dense? I’m the oldest, I know how to take care to Yara, I’ve been doing it for years. “We’ll be fine,” I said attempting to close the door again but she pulled it back again.

She paused before speaking, “Don’t over it.” She noticed my confused expression and pointed to my stab wound. I slightly nodded in realization. “I didn’t catch your name.” She uttered. I stared at her in a mix of confused and surprise. Why did she want to know my name? My best guess was that my name was the only one she didn’t get. I doubted that I’d ever see her again, so fuck it, I’ll just tell her.

I sighed , “Y/N.”

There was a slight pause before Abby spoke, “Hm, it suits you.” I raised an eyebrow. It suits me? Is that supposed to be a compliment? I just smiled before closing the door and locking it. I stood there for a second. For some reason I felt kinda.. flustered ? I quickly tried pushing that feeling down. I rejoined Yara and Lev in the next room. Once I entered the room, l noticed that Yara and Lev were looking at me weird. What’s going on with these weirdos?

“What? Yara, are you okay?” I said confused and concerned.

“Nothing.” Yara said, her face becoming dead-pan. This was getting weird.

I just shrugged it off before sitting next to Yara. “Are you feeling any better?” I was hoping that whatever was going on with them had ended.

“Physically, no. Mentally, yes.” She said looking at me.

“What changed mentally?”

She smiled slightly, “I saw Abby looking at you.”

My face scrunched in confusion “Yeah..?” We were having a conversation… that’s how it works.

“You seemed to catch her eye.”

I felt my cheeks flush. “ Catch their eye” was the equivalent to “checking you out” in the Seraphites. “Why are you bringing this up now? Your arm is smashed and you’re talking about this?” Admittedly, l was slightly flustered - for multiple reasons.

She shrugged before whining in pain, “It’s keeping my mind off the pain.” She chuckled.

“Y’know,” Lev started, “You never seemed interested in any of the suitors that your mother provided. Is it because you’re interested in-“

“Lev.” I interrupted. “We are not talking about this right now.” The last thing I wanted to talk about was my sexuality - which is something even I don’t fully know the answer to. I leaned my head against the edge of the couch, “Let’s try to get some rest. It’s been a long day, for all of us.” At that moment, all I wanted was rest, mostly for Yara. As I closed my eyes, I couldn’t help but worry about Abby. I hope that she gets to her destination safely.

Chapter Text

The first light woke me up. I rubbed my eyes before wincing. Fuck, it hurts even more . I looked to my left to see that almost my entire sleeve was soaked in blood. I just sighed - I couldn’t do anything about it so best not to dwell on it.

I noticed Lev, he was sat by Yara’s side. I chuckled slightly as I saw he was drooling. Our little soldier looked so peaceful. It makes me sad that now, he only looked at ease when he was sleeping. When he’s awake, he’s always so tense and on edge. I guess that just means that he’s becoming a real soldier - a stone-cold warrior. I stood up and walked over to Yara. Even in her sleep, she was whimpering. My poor Yara . My heartache overpowered my pain. Her arm was extremely red - it was clearly getting worse. I grabbed my coat from the edge of the couch and carefully placed it over her arm. I stared at her face for a few seconds. She looked so.. in pain. My smiley Yara was now lying on a couch in utter agony. I leaned over her and started caressing her hair.

I don’t know how long I was standing over her before a person talking caught my attention. I suddenly remembered Abby’s words about how this place gets traffic. I rushed over to the window and looked through the blinds, copying how Abby did last night. Two Seraphites were approaching our location. Shit . I quickly grabbed my bow and arrow and rushed to the next room. I heard Lev groan from the next room. I must have woken him up from moving around so much. I peeked at him through the doorway. He looked around and quickly found my eye. I put a finger over my lips, signaling for him to be quiet. We have company. He wasted no time and grabbed his gun. I stood by the door, waiting for them to get closer.

“Y/N never arrived at her post yesterday,” one of the Seraphites began. “Do you think she’s with the Apostates?” My heart dropped. How in the world did they already know? I guess I forgot how fast word travels in the Seraphites.

“It’s plausible, she’s shown how much she cares about them. I wouldn’t be surprised if she threw her whole life away just to protect them.” The other Seraphite replied, walking up the stairs to the door. I held my breath and drew back my arrow. Once the Seraphite approached the door, he swung it open. I let go of my arrow without a single thought. The arrow hit him straight in the forehead. Bullseye . He slumped on the door and slowly slid down, leaving a line of blood. “What in the-“ the Seraphite was cut off by Lev rushing past me and shooting him in the chest.

I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding. I looked at Lev, his gaze was hard. My cold-hearted soldier was back. I playfully elbowed him. “Nice shoot, bud. You’ve improved.” He just smirked in response. “Guard the door, I’m going to check on Yara.”

He nodded and I walked back over to Yara. She was now awake and whimpering more. I quickly made my way over to her, kneeling beside her. She smiled weakly. “You’re going to be okay.” I said softly. I couldn’t tell if I was trying to reassure her or myself. Probably both. She glanced down at my shoulder, her eyes widening as she noticed my bloody sleeve. I quickly put my hand over my sleeve, attempting to cover it even though it was useless. “I feel fine.” She just grumbled in response. It seemed like she was forcing herself to believe that what I was saying was true.

I heard a gunshot followed by Lev’s voice. “Don’t come any closer!” He barked, gun in hand. I stood up, putting my over to my side to cover Yara. These bastards just can’t seem to leave us alone, can they?

“It's me!” A familiar shouted. Abby? Lev moved closer to the door. He’s face seemed to soften as he recognized the person at the door. “How are they?” She said, walking into the house. Lev shrugged. She walked past him and entered the next room. Once she walked in, she immediately looked at my bloody shirt.

I brushed a piece of hair behind my ear and waved my other hand dismissively, “I’m fine.” I moved to the side of the couch. “I… can’t say the same for Yara,” my face visibly dulled. Abby nodded before making her way to Yara. Abby talked to Yara, though I couldn’t hear any of it. My head was reeling. All that blood loss was getting to me. In the corner of my eye, I saw Abby picking Yara up. She started walking out of the room. Where in the world is she taking her? Without thinking I run in front of her. “What do you think you’re doing?” My gaze was intense. She glanced at me before trying to walk past me but I grabbed her by the shoulder. “Abby.”

She exhaled, “I’m taking her somewhere she’ll get help.” I finally let her walk past me and out of the house. I guess anywhere but here was better. Lev and I made eye contact - all I could do was shrug before following Abby.

I was swaying back and forth more than actually walking. I felt so lightheaded that I could barely think straight. Thankfully, most of the walk was quiet. Everyone was too tense to talk. I nervously bit the inside of my cheek - a nervous habit that had started a few years ago. I just hoped that wherever Abby was taking us would be able to help Yara.

On the way to this mysterious sanctuary, we went through a yard of shipping containers. Scattered around this yard were the deceased bodies of Seraphites. Their blood was still a vibrant red - this happened recently. I glanced at Abby who was ahead of me. Had she done this? To get to us ? I didn’t wanna think about it too much, I should just be relieved she came back.

After a while longer, we arrived at an “Aquarium”, this seemed to be the place Abby was talking about. I had seen this aquarium hundreds of times from afar but had never been this close to it. Lev ran to the door and tried to open it to no avail, “How are we going to get it?” He turned to Abby.

“There’s a key in my right pocket,” she muttered, lifting Yara slightly to make to easier for Lev to grab it. I was slightly admiring how effortlessly Abby carried Yara. I need to ask for her workout routine - under different circumstances. Lev quickly made his way to Abby and grabbed the key. Instead of just one key, there was an assortment of them. Lev’s eyebrows furrowed as he stared at the keys. The first one he tried was thankfully the correct one. He pushed the door open and held it open for the rest of us. I looked at the inside in awe. A giant whale was hanging from the ceiling. Oh my goodness, is that real? As curious as I was, I didn’t want to delay getting Yara help, even if it was just a short conversation.

“Owen!” Abby shouted. Hm, Owen? I took note of that. We walked up some stairs into a tunnel of sorts. It was glowing blue, it was nothing like anything I had seen before. “Owen!” Abby shouted once more, this time a bit more aggressively.

“I’m here!” A male voice came further from the tunnel. “Owen” rounded the corner, coming face to face with us. His face turned from what seemed like relief to shock. “Are those Scars?” He had a subtle hint of disgust in his voice. I couldn’t help but scoff - that made him look at me. His face twisted in a judgmental way. I didn’t like this guy from the get-go.

“I need whatever medical supplies you have.” Abby muttered. I was a bit surprised. “Whatever medical supplies you have” made it sound like they didn’t have much. Them not having much is not a good thing. Owen didn’t even get to respond before a dog came running past him, barking aggressively. It scared that ever living shit out of me. Neither me, Lev, nor Yara have had good experiences with dogs. Lev immediately pulled his bow back, ready to shoot. Owen quickly grabbed the dog, restraining it.

Owen shouted, “WHAT THE FUCK?!” His initial shout at Lev caused everyone to begin shouting. Abby shouted at Lev to put the bow down and Owen joined her in shouting at Lev while I shouted at Owen - stuff like “what the fuck?” or “get that bitch away from us”.

A female voice broke through the chaos. “Alice!” The woman rounded the corner, and I immediately noticed how undeniably pregnant she was. Not to be rude but damn, she’s huge. At her shout, the violent beast calmed down. Lev’s face was contorted with anger and fear. I put my hand on his shoulder, trying to ease his mind a little. Lev looked up at me before putting his bow down. “Abby..” the woman started, “who are these kids?” I raised an eyebrow. Kids? I’m nineteen, you knocked up radish.

“They saved my life.” Abby exclaimed, her voice tender. “They’re injured. Could you take a look at them?” She sounded a bit hesitant. That’s a bit weird, she seems to know them though she is also tense around them. The woman looked at me but quickly averted her gaze. What? You can't look a Seraphite in the eyes? I gritted my teeth.

The woman’s eyes widened as she looked at Yara’s red and swollen arm. “What happened to her?” The woman asked Abby. She sounded pretty concerned.

“Yara’s arm was bashed by a hammer,” Abby looked at me, “And Y/N was stabbed.” I looked back at her. Our eyes met for a moment before she spoke again. “Neither of them were me.” She stuttered out. I suddenly felt my cheeks heat up. Was it Abby looking at me? No, that would be stupid. We just made eye contact.

“Let’s go lay Yara down.” The woman muttered before walking away. Abby immediately followed. I took a second to process the interaction we just had. Lev elbowed me in the arm, “You’re blushing.” I saw him mouth before following Abby. My eyes widened and my cheeks reddened. Like hell I am! I took a deep breath and followed behind Lev.

We walked into a room with an operating table in the center. Is it normal for Aquariums to have an operating table? Abby gently laid Yara on the table before stepping back, letting the woman look at Yara. The woman carefully felt Yara’s arm. Her face was very focused and every touch to Yara’s arm felt intentional. As she felt Yara’s arm, I noticed a bandage on a nearby table. “Do you mind if I use this?” I asked the woman. She didn’t look at me but nodded. She’s an odd one. I took off the cloth covering my wound and replaced it with the bandage. It felt so much more comfortable and secure.

“Can you feel this?” The woman asked. Yara didn’t respond. “Yara.” The woman said with more intent, trying to get Yara’s attention.

Yara shook her head, “No.” she said weakly. I leaned closer to Yara and gently grabbed her hand. I hoped that holding something might make her feel more relaxed.

Abby spoke, “I was planning on cleaning it up and-“

She was cut off by the woman, “The bone is shattered.” My stomach dropped. Shattered? Fucking shattered? My mind went back to those Seraphites who smashed her arm. I wish we had fucked them up some more. Gutted them? Smashed their bones? Anything would have sufficed. “She has compartment syndrome.” The woman’s voice shot through my ears.

Lev’s face darkened in confusion “What does that mean?” He uttered.

“It means it has to come off.” Abby choked out. Come off? Like amputate it? When I thought it couldn’t get any worse - it somehow did. But Yara’s a warrior, without her arm she can’t fight or even defend herself. Lev seemed to have the same concerns as me.

“She’s a soldier. You can’t take her arm.” His voice was filled with disbelief and anger.

I leaned forward a bit, “Are there any other options?” I muttered, squeezing Yara’s hand. There had to be something, anything.

My hopes were quickly crashed as the woman shook her head. “Amputating it is the only option. If we don’t amputate it, it’ll turn gangrenous.” There was a slight pause in the conversation. It seems like everyone was just trying to process the information.

Abby took a step forward, “Make me a list. I can go to the nearby hospital and get whatever supplies you need.”

“It’ll take you all day to get there.”

“I really don’t mind.”

“This isn’t about you, Abby.” The woman’s tone quickly became harsh. The room was suddenly filled with tension. “She doesn’t have a couple of days.” I thought for a second. If they’re talking about the wolf hospital on the west side, one of the Seraphite bridges drops off there. I’ve been on them a few times.

I leaned forward a bit, injecting myself into the conversation. “You’re talking about the wolf hospital on the west side, right?” The woman nodded. “I can get you there in two hours, can Yara make that?” Everyone collectively looked at me in confusion. “The Seraphites built bridges between buildings, there’s a route to the hospital.”

The woman thought for a second before speaking, “Yeah, she could make that.”

“Perfect. So make the list.” Abby loomed over my shoulder. Her close proximity sent a shiver down my spine. The woman took a piece of paper from her pocket and began writing down what she needed.

Owen started walking closer to where we were crowded. I noticed him subtly looking Abby up and down - it left a weird taste in my mouth. “You’re not seriously thinking about going there, are you? Scars use those bridges.” Again with the Scars .

I glared at him. Just from the ten minutes I’ve known him, he has been quite irritating. “They only send small groups.” I accidentally said it with a bit of attitude.

Abby pointed at me with her thumb, “You hear that? Small groups.” I grinned. Abby would be fine with or without me. Owen seems to have a weird sense of protectiveness over her, which is odd considering she is clearly more fit than him.

The woman handed Abby the list. Owen’s face hardened. “This is serious.” Abby took the list, completely ignoring him.

She looked at me, “Let’s go.” She turned around, heading to her backpack.

I nodded and gripped Yara’s hand a bit tighter, “You’re not going, are you?” Yara choked out. Her eyebrows were contorted in worry, “You’re injured.”

“I’ll be fine and I know those bridges better than Lev does.” I shot her a reassuring smile, “and I’m all patched up. Don’t worry about me.” She really wasn’t in the position to worry. I have everything under control, just like I always do.

I felt her hand tighten around mine. “May she guide you.” God, her smile hurt. I hoped she couldn’t feel how tense I was at her words.

I forced a slight smile, “May she protect you.” I slowly let go of her hand. I turned around to find Lev looking at me. A glare would be the closest way to describe how he was looking at me. I smirked at him and gently grabbed his shoulder. “You stay safe too.” He’s gaze seemed to turn into a more sad one. I patted his shoulder before letting go and following behind Abby.

As we exited the room, Owen’s shouts followed us. “Abb- Abby!” He sure is overbearing. I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. We got to a door and Abby took out the keys from earlier. She began looking through the keys before Owen walked up from behind her. We made eye contact and he… glared at me? I scoffed and leaned against a nearby wall, watching them interact intently. “Hey.” Owen muttered as he approached Abby.

She exhaled in displeasure, “What?” Her tone was harsh and direct.

Owen’s eyes found her hand, “D-did you steal my keys?” He stuttered in disbelief. Oh, those are his keys .

Abby pursed her lips. “Sorry.” She clearly was not interested in conversing with him but he didn’t care. Take the hint, Owen.

He leaned a little closer to her, “Can I.. talk to you?” The way he was looking her reminded me of a kitten. The tension was undeniable.

Abby’s head swayed, “Talk.” She barked. She was literally giving him one-word answers and he continued to try and have a conversation with her.

“Look.. she just showed up.” Abby shook her head as he spoke. “I don’t think she knows about last night-“

Abby cut him off and turned to face him. “I don’t care about last night.” Last night? What in the world happened last night? I couldn’t see Abby’s face so I could only imagine her expression right now.

Owen’s eyes softened in hurt, “Well.. I do.” Damn, this drama is crazy - even if I’m not exactly sure what it’s about.

Abby lifted her hand with the keys, “Which one?” She said coldly. Owen looked at her before grabbing the keys. He glanced at me, before pushing one of the keys into the lock. After a click, Owen pushed the door open, staring Abby down. She looked at me and gestured for me to go first. I nodded and quickly walked through the door. I felt so awkward walking between them. Abby followed closely behind me. She turned around and closed the door behind her. Turning back around, she found me smirking slightly. I didn’t say anything, my teasing gaze was enough for her. “We’re not talking about this right now.” She said exasperatedly. I captured her smiling as she walked past me. She’s cute .

The door led to a little yard outside the aquarium. There were tanks and what seemed to be equipment lying around. I followed Abby through a gate, which took us more towards the city. I looked around a little before speaking, “So, who was that woman?” I wanted to change the topic to something more serious.

Abby picked up some speed and started running into some woods. “Her name’s Mel. She's one of the best surgeons in Seattle.” I exhaled in response. It was definitely a relief knowing that Yara is in good hands.

I sprinted behind her as we ran through the trees. “It’s a great coincidence that she was there then.” We climbed over a broken road as I spoke. It was honestly a nice day- weather-wise. It’s cloudy but there was a nice breeze. Spring is my favorite time of year. Flowers would always bloom near my house in the spring, pretty yellow and blue ones. I wonder if they’ve bloomed yet. That reminder of home made my stomach twist. I felt weird being homesick after everything that had happened, but I guess it’s natural. “I’m not sure where the tall buildings are. If you could take us to the area they’re in, I’ll be able to take the lead from there.”

She nodded, “This path will take us to downtown.” I’m not sure not downtown is but it sounds promising. We ran under a bridge - plants grew everywhere. In the city, most of the buildings were covered in overgrown plants. I think the green adds a nice hint of color that this depressing world needs - even if it’s just weeds. Abby climbed into a building through a broken window. “Are you sure that you’re okay to do this? Y’know, with your stab wound.”

I raised an eyebrow, “You’re worried about me ?” A small smile lay on my lips. It felt a bit strange for someone other than Yara or Lev to worry about me. I could only reply teasingly.

She grabbed something from a shelf, “Well, yeah, how could I not be? Like- come on your sleeve was soaked in blood.” She seemed confused why I responded like that, but she was nice about it.

I chuckled shyly, “Good point.” I watched her walk around the room as I stood by the other broken window. My heart was pounding as I watched her. I felt nervous being alone with her. I’ve never been on friendly terms with a wolf before, nor had a conversation with one. Which is funny considering I’ve listened in on many wolf conversations. “I feel perfectly fine.”I wanted to give her some reassurance, mostly so she doesn’t hold me back if we do more physical stuff. Abby climbed through the window, followed closely by me. I saw more rushing water and looked up. Right up ahead was the building to the hospital. “That’s the building we need to get to,” I said, pointing up. “I can take it from here.” Abby was looking around intently. She definitely didn’t hear what I just said. I assumed that she was trying to figure out the best way across the rushing water.

I walked up behind her and snapped my fingers by her shoulder. “Hey, Abby!” She flinched and quickly looked at me in surprise. I grinned, “I know where to go. Follow me.” There were three main platforms of concrete. One on the left, one in the middle of the water, and one on the right. It was a simple path. I sprinted to the concrete on the left and climbed it skillfully.

“Y’know how to swim?” Abby asked as she climbed the concrete. I looked at her in disbelief. Seriously? The Seraphites live on an island.

“Uh, yeah.” I replied, a bit puzzled by her question.

She smirked at me, “Do the Scars give you swimming lessons?” She grinned. She was obviously proud of the little joke.

I felt my face tense. “Seraphites.” I jumped to the platform in the middle. “Something like that.” I muttered. As I jumped to the next platform, I heard a splash. Once my feet hit the ground, I turned around to find Abby floating downstream. She cursed under her breath. Once she made it to the shallow part of the stream, she stood and immediately went to try again. She made eye contact with me as she climbed the concrete. I had to turn around to hide my mocking smile. All that muscle and she couldn’t jump over a stream? Thankfully, she made it over on her second try. She walked past me, a little attitude in her steps. I didn’t say anything and just sprinted past her.

I walked into the next room while she looted an abandoned kitchen. The next room just had stairs. “You’re confident that these bridges will get us to the hospital in just a couple of hours?” She sounded pretty skeptical.

“Yep.” I swayed as I waited for her to finish - switching my weight from one foot to another. “I’ve been on them a good amount of times.” I silently hoped that she wasn't afraid of heights. These bridges are pretty high and narrow. It would just be another obstacle.

I walked up the stairs as I saw her finish in the kitchen. “Do you think we’ll see a lot of Scars?” She caught my glaring eye. “Seraphite, whatever.” This Scar thing was making me feel uncomfortable though I tried to suppress it since we’re going to be together for a while.

I nodded. “I doubt there’s going to be a lot. Most likely just a few groups.” Nothing she can’t handle. We quietly walked up the stairs. The creaking stairs seemed so loud. After making it to the top of the stairs, I noticed an odd writing on the wall. I couldn’t be bothered enough to figure out what it was. I walked down the short hallway into what looked to be an apartment. I just knew that Abby was about to loot the crap out of this place. I walked through the room and hopped out the window onto the platform. Every apartment building seems to have this stair thing on the side of them - I find it intriguing. Abby took her time looting the place (something I wasn’t very fond of). I waited outside, leaning on the side of the building. The sound of the rushing water below felt relaxing. It was yet another reminder of home. That stupid island feels comforting and daunting at the same time. The warm feeling of home was always followed by a wave of anxiety. I wonder if I’ll ever go back.

Chapter Text

I was staring at the rushing water below me. It reminded me of storms on the Seraphite island. The thunder and the sound of crashing waves. It was hypnotizing. I wondered if that island would always haunt me. Maybe one day, I’ll forgot about my past and start a whole new life. Away from everything. Abby poked my shoulder, waking me up from whatever trance the water put me in. I whipped around to look at her. Her body was leaning to the side, “You okay there?” She raised an eyebrow. She looked concerned but sounded more confused than anything.

I blinked a few times as I came back to reality. “Yeah.” I muttered, scratching the back of my hand. I hadn’t realized how much I had dozed off. “Let’s keep moving.” I walked past her and to the stairs. I need to keep focused. As we walked up, I noticed an abandoned room through a window. I assumed that Abby would jump at the looting opportunity but instead she just continued walking behind me and past it. I guess she didn’t see it. Not after long, we made it to the top of the stairs. At the top was a leader that lead to the roof. I hopped on and began climbing. I glanced down to see Abby looking to her left and scratching the back of her neck. A nice hue of pink on her cheeks. It looked like she was trying not to look at my ass as I was climbing. I smirked at that. I wouldn’t really have wouldn’t mind if she took a peak. Wait- what? “I wouldn’t mind if she took a peak”? God, I sound like a pervert. I made it to the top of the ladder in no time. Taking took a nice deep inhale of the air as I got off the ladder and stood up. It smelled like sea-salt and pine. The nice breeze from earlier was still there too. With a look to my right, I noticed a broken road - the perfect route to the tall buildings.

I walked over to the edge of the roof and looked over. At the bottom was more rushing water. We’re higher up than I thought. There’s a pretty big gap between the road and the building but it’s definitely doable. I took a few steps back and jumped. With a shook to my feet, I landed safely. I spun around and made eye contact with Abby as she got off the ladder. “There’s a big gap. Be careful.” I called out to her. She could make it no problem, I didn’t doubt that but I still felt I should warn her.

Abby took a step back and raised an eyebrow - confused why I would tell her to be careful, she would be fine. “I got it.” She said confidently almost dismissively. It looked like she was trying to act tough but I could see the lump in her throat and the nervous look in her eyes. I smirked and shook my head. She took off running and jumped onto the road. For a second, she made it fine but as she started to stand up, her foot slipped. “Oh shit!” She exclaimed. Her body had barely began falling before I grabbed her arm and yanked her backwards towards me. I think being around her had made me forget my own strength, which caused me to pull her too hard. We both fell to the ground - she was lucky enough to land on me instead of the concrete road. The impact on her landing on top of me and the falling on the ground cause all the air to shot out of my lungs. Oh man. I could hear her breathing on top of me, it made my stomach twist. I felt her weight lifted off my chest but I could still feel her on my lower half. “Are you okay?” Her voice was low but gentle. I slowly opened my eyes and oh my days. She looked like she was doing a push up but I’m top of me. Her face was a few inches away from mine. Had she always had such a pretty eye color? They’re like a gray blue…

I swallowed hard. In the corner of my eyes, I could see her big ass biceps, she was filling my entire vision. I had no idea my palms could get so sweaty. “O-uh yep.” I said, crawling out from under her. That odd moment was very brief but I felt winded. I hated how I could feel my cheeks burning. Get a grip. Abby looked at me before standing up - she had a sly smile on her face.

I let out a deep exhale, still sitting on the ground. She leaned a little bit over me and put her hands on her hips, “You don’t seem to be a fan of close contact.” Her voice was smooth.

“I guess not.” I uttered, standing up. Do I hate it? I brushed some dirt off my pants. “Well- I think I’m just not used to it,” I continued, moving my hands awkwardly. “Y’know Seraphites aren’t very physically affectionate so most of us aren’t very used to people-“ Abby chuckled, causing me to stop talking. Oh, I was nervously talking.

She took a step closer to me. “Don’t worry, I understand.” I just looked at her. She’s so gentle and kind - the complete opposite I assumed she would be like. She smiled at my blank stare. “We should keep moving.” She muttered while walking past me. Right, Yara. I cleared my throat before sprinting infront of her. The road quickly broke off, the edge leading to the rapids at the bottom. I leaned a little over the road. Nothing there. On my left was a building with a balcony conveniently close to the road. I walked over and jumped. The gap was a lot smaller this time. In front of me was a sliding glass door. It opened with little resistance. On the inside was an apartment. I looked around. It’s a nice place, nothing special.

I walked over to the front door of the apartment and leaned on it. “I’ll be here while you do your thing.” She nodded in response as she looked around. I bite the inside of my cheek - the image of her on top of me replaying in my head. This is weird. I’m been close to people before, obviously, but I’ve never thought about it this much. I leaned my head against the door and let out a deep sigh. I just need to think about the important things, like getting to the hospital.

Abby disappeared into the kitchen. “Do you mind if ask you question?” She sounded a bit.. unsure. A question? I don’t see why not, it’ll help me not get bored.

I straighten my posture, “Ask and let’s see if I want to answer.” It honestly sounded a bit harsh, but I was not going to answer an odd question.

I could hear her going through some drawers then suddenly stop. “Why do most Seraphites.. have those Scars?” I just sighed, unconsciously touching my own Scars at that question. I guess it’s natural to be curious, but it just feels like a sensitive topic.

I lean forward, basically sitting on the door now. “We get them from a ritual of sorts…” it’s weird. I remember explaining to Lev and Yara how it worked and yet… it was hard for me to find the right words to explain it to Abby. I thought for a second longer. “It symbolizes humanity’s imperfections and it’s just.. showing your devotion to the religion.” Abby quietly chuckled. “What?” I chuckled back, confused what induced her chuckle.

She poked her head out of the kitchen. “It’s just.. kinda ironic that the scars show devotion. Y’know, considering your situation.” The moment she said it, I could tell she realized she was being a little too casual.

A pit seemed to form in my stomach, my hand still lay on my scar. These scars would always be a reminder of what I was apart of, where I came from - something I’ll never be able to ran from. My hand fell away my face, now hanging by my side. “Mhm.” I mumbled quietly. Silence followed - the sound of the rushing water audible again. I let the quiet drag on for a little longer so Abby could loot more and also because I exactly sure what to say next.

“Uhm.. Are you done?” I said awkwardly, getting off of the door. Abby came out of the kitchen and nodded before I turned around and opened the door. Outside the door lay an assortment of more doors with different numbers. Vines and other succulents grew all other the doors and walls. I looked around the hallway. I love nature. The shades of green, the interesting textures, the variety. I think growing up in a world consumed by nature made me appreciate it. It’s intriguing seeing the world take back what’s theirs, or that’s how I Iike to think about it.

To the right was a stair case, which I ran up without much thought. I pushed the door at the top open. A plain rooftop lay behind the door, some birds flew away, surprised by our sudden entrance. As I walked to another staircase that led up even higher, I spotted what seemed to be self made targets with arrows still stuck on them. It seemed whoever used these targets had good aim considering the marks left behind. As I walked up the staircase, I could hear Abby picking up the arrows behind me. “You seem pretty good with that bow of yours.” She commented, following behind me.

“Well, I was taught young.” At the top of the stairs was a little patio - old couches in the corner. On the right was what I assumed were generators. Straight ahead was a metal bridge that lead to the other building. I headed straight while Abby went to the right. The bridge didn’t lead anywhere, it just went straight into a wall. Though, I soon noticed there was a balcony type platform on my right. I easily jumped onto it - a rattling sound followed my contact with the floor. A familiar groan followed the rattling noise. I instinctively shot down to the ground, crouching. I moved a little toward the big windows ahead and peeked inside. I was meet with the sight of a whole group of demons.

I sighed in disappointment. “Damn.” I exclaimed, scooting away from the window. I guess I shouldn’t be surprised, but I can’t help being annoyed. It seemed to be a big demon, a few regular ones, and the blind ones.

Abby jumped onto to the platform. “What is it?” She asked, joining me on the ground. She’d be able to take on that many, at least I think so, she’s very capable.

I looked over at her, my brows furrowed. “A group of demons- infected.” I don’t know what to call them anymore.

Abby moved a little closer to me, “How do you wanna handle this?” Her voice was gentle. She watched me intently, waiting for an answer.

I need to think strategically. “We should barge in there.” Abby gave me a bit of a confused look. “There isn’t a whole lot of them. You have your guns and I’m skilled. We also don’t have time to try and sneak past them.” I leaned the side my head against the wall. “Though, the exploding demon could be an issue.” I bit the inside of my cheek. I have only come across the big demons a hand full of times, and even then I was with a group of people.

Abby stood up, a confidence in her posture. “We can handle it.” She shot me a smirk. What a charmer. I slightly chuckled before raising to my feet. I’m not sure why I’m so doubtful of our abilities. We’re capable.

I grabbed my pistol from my holster. “How much ammo do you have left?” She skipped looting a few places, so I was a bit concerned she wouldn’t have enough ammo for our little ambush.

Abby paused. “I have enough.” She sounded confident enough for me not to question her any further. The window seemed to be fogged. It was just enough so the demons couldn’t see us through the window but we were able to. I hesitantly stand up and cautiously step in front of the windows. I’ve never broken a window before but I’m assuming I have enough muscle for it. A demon stumbled close to the window. Perfect. I took a silent inhale before I slam my arm full force into the window, launching my self towards the infected. I pushed on the infected over and onto the ground. I hear a series of groans and screams from the demons , including the one I landed on. It clawed at my arm, leaving a few cuts. I quickly leaned back and shot it in the face with my pistol. Being so close made the shot easy.

I hear a few more gun shots and looked up to see Abby with her rifle in hand. I looked around to see one of the exploding demons coming towards me. “Shot!” I exclaim under my breath. I shot to my feet and aimed my pistol at it. I knew my gun wouldn’t do a lot of damage but there wasn’t much I could do. I shot at it as it came closer - slowly moving backwards in the process. Oh no it’s getting a little too clos- it exploded with a screech. The acid cloud quickly formed around it. I ran away as quickly as I could, but the burning sensation on the back of my leg told me I didn’t ran fast enough. “Oh man..” I groan, leaning against a wall. A clicking one ran towards me but was quickly obliterated with a gun shot it the head from Abby. I quickly noticed the big demon was gone too - Abby must have killed it when I was running away. The sounds of the demons faded.

Abby sprinted over to me, “Did acid get you?”

“It seems that way. It’s not bad though. I just need a minute.” I mutter, letting my arm relax. Jeez, I really need to pay more attention to my opponents.

Abby chuckled, “Are you normally this accident prone?” Huh, I’d never really thought about it, but two injuries in the span of eighteen hours is abnormal.

“Uhh.. not really.” I turn my body more towards her. “I just think Yara’s injury has put me a bit out of it.” This was the only reason I think of why I’m off my game. Well, the only reasonable one. I honestly just keep.. looking at Abby. The back of her head, her hands, her hair. My eyes just keep finding her. Something is definitely wrong me.