Work Text:
I've been down with a broken heart
Since the day I learned to speak
The devil gave me a crooked start
When he gave me crooked feet
But Gabriel done came to me
And kissed me in my sleep
And I'll be singing like an angel
Until I'm six feet deep
It was hot as hell today.
A common thought these days long after their world ended.
A lone figure slowly walks down a path being eventually overtaken by nature as humanity fades into history, their time as the apex species lost the moment they became too greedy and society collapsed under their own hubris. Her fiery red hair was stuffed beneath a ratty jade green bandana, lone emerald eye glinting in the bright sun as she glares at her surroundings daring something to crawl out and attack her.
Gem isn’t honestly sure what she is surviving for in this ravaged world where zombies roamed eating whatever living humans who still struggled to thrive. Sighing and laying her palm upon the smooth holster of her favourite pistol using her other hand for her decorated walking stick she held to keep her balance, the redhead keeps her ears open for any noise beyond the normal sounds of nature. Her purpose and her safety had been ripped away from her moons ago all over one little mistake in this ruthless world they had inherited after the older generations failed them.
But on the other hand, the forests around her were beautiful. There was a certain loveliness in the tragedy, nature had begun to flourish where it had once been steel structures reaching high into a polluted sky. Some towns and cities that were abandoned were now infested with wild greenery, animals making their habitats where humans once congregated as the undead were less likely to attack them as it was only human flesh they craved. Gem admired what she could in her state of cold apathy and hardened survival, once she would have tried to make shitty sketches to bring home to her much more artistically talented sibling but now that only a painful memory.
Trudging along she nearly trips, stepping around a tree root she only barely manages to catch herself with her walking stick, mumbling a curse under her breath as she rights herself before straightening back up. Ever since her left eye was ripped from her skull it left a bad blind spot she was still adjusting too, she didn’t know what she had done to piss off fate and not allow that to be her end but instead persisting through a taxing recovery she still felt the consequences from.
Taking a deep breath after letting her remaining emerald orb slip shut, she pictures a happier place filled with her family’s laughter and a sense of safety she hadn’t been immersed in for many years. It was so much simpler back then, even though she had been born in this post-apocalyptic world she was surrounded by people who actually cared for her.
After they lost their parents they were lost for far too long and fell in with a crowd who only saw strength in their persistence skills which ended up being a devastating choice that resulted in Gem being left terribly alone.
The screech of a hawk brings Gem’s attention back to the present, prying her eye open to peer up at the bright blue sky where the bird soars, free as can be searching for its next meal in the meadow she had been journeying across with no true destination in mind. Taking a deep breath of the fresh and fragrant air she centers herself paying attention to the gentle rushing of the breeze through the grasses beside her, wildflowers weaving their smells into the wind around her reminding her even after the fall of humanity there is peace beyond the chaos.
Just as that thought crosses her mind horrible inhuman screaming pierces through the harmony which floods the redhead’s veins with ice, she thought she had made enough distance between herself and the last settlement where a horde dragged themselves through but clearly not.
Hands shaking she scrabbles at her gun, Gem’s stubborn will not enough to stop the trembling as she nearly drops her firearm before turning around slowly and gasping. At least twenty individuals emerge from the forest behind her wailing their victory as they spot her, as much as a part of Gem’s heart begs to give up she won’t. She can’t. She promised someone long ago she would fight like hell to keep living and she intended to keep it for as long as she can, until the breath leaves her lungs and her heart stops beating.
Knowing she is outnumbered she changes her strategy, stuffing her pistol back into her belt she checks its secure before trying to sprint for the trees after picking up her walking stick. If she can find a tall enough tree and haul herself upwards she could camp out until they got bored…hopefully.
But in her desperate fleeing she miscalculates, not seeing the rock in the path below her until its far too late and her ankle makes a sickening crunch as she falls forward onto her hands which barely catch her before her face smashes into the ground. Cursing like a sailor she rolls over quickly trying to blink the tears from her eyes and compartmentalizing her agony as she draws her gun to aim at whatever was heading for her.
“I’ll see you soon Pearl.” She’s unable to hold back mumbling to herself as she lines up her aim and pulls the trigger at the nearest zombie coming to rip her apart.
Her first few bullets hit their targets, three of the zombies collapsing from shots through their skulls but due to the size of the horde another simply replaces them, growing closer screeching with excitement about their next meal lying before them. Gem keeps firing but begins to whisper her last prayers for mercy and a quick demise, not wanting to live long enough to be painfully ripped apart by these mindless monsters.
As the last word crosses her lips suddenly a very human shout sounds from behind the horde, Gem hardly believing her eyes spotting two men rushing to her rescue between the mindless bodies heading her way. One confidently dual wielding swords which he effortlessly swipes through anything that crosses his path as his blonde friend behind drops zombie after zombie with arrows pierced through their temples until the pair is the only two left standing.
Gem refuses to drop her aim, long ago having learned the dangers of this world could still extend to it’s survivors waiting for any indication they would harm her too.
“Whoa, whoa, we won’t hurt you.” The blonde with the bow immediately places his weapon back across his torso diagonally, the string resting from his right shoulder to his left hip with the polished wood against his back. His taller friend holstered his swords with a less welcoming look but still stood behind his companion, clearly there as his backup but he waited for the blonde to talk first. “I know zombies only attack the healthy so unless you were bitten recently you are safe. If you were I can promise we will give you a painless death.”
Keeping mute the redheaded woman considers her options, mindlessly trying to pull her legs below her until her ankle screams its protest. Glancing down quickly she doesn’t like how its discoloured and the joint is already starting to swell, her strength giving out as she fumbles her pistol before it drops to her lap. Instead opting for the knife strapped to her thigh, she prepares to defend herself regardless of the fact she was clearly worse off in this situation.
“You need help, and as much as I admire your fire you won’t last long like this mate.” The blonde’s accented voice drops into a soothing tone, waiting out Gem’s decision as she considers her options before she finally sighs.
Making a show of tucking her weapons back away, she clears her throat and replies in a shaking voice. “I am not infected, I am just a wanderer.”
“Do you have anyone we could reunite you with?”
Silently, she shakes her head as she also holsters her pistol. “No…it’s just me.”
“Well our group is sheltering nearby and we were out on a hunt for fresh food, if its okay with you we could bring you with us and I can provide someone who can set that ankle properly before the damage gets any worse.”
“Phil.” His friend’s gruff voice finally cuts in, drawing the blonde’s blue eyes to his own narrowed ones. “Bringing in yet another stray? We have enough mouths to feed.”
“She’s dead if we leave her out here, Techno.”
“She can talk, you know.” Gem’s pain leaks into her voice as she snaps, drawing their gazes back to her own striking yet cold stare. “I am used to being on my own, you can just leave me here. I’ll find a way, I always do.”
Leaning over she finds a stick she bites down on it before placing both hands in certain places around her broken ankle. Taking a deep breath, she puts intense pressure on it clenching down on the stick as pain rings up her leg while the bones shift back into place with a horrific snap. Unfortunately for her, this action is the last thing her exhausted body can take before unconsciousness claims her, a panicked shout being the last thing she hears before her head collides with the forest floor when she collapses.
I found myself an omen and I tattooed on a sign
I set my mind to wandering and I walk a broken line
You have a mind to keep me quiet
And although you can try
Better men have hit their knees
And bigger men have died
Warm, comfortable bedding is the first thing she notices as her awareness claims her back from the quietness that is being out cold, unable to pry her eye open just yet she stretches her limbs slowly until her leg reminds her what last happened. Suddenly adrenaline dumps into her veins as she attempts to sit up abruptly, dragging her eye open as she looks around in a panic when two sets of hands grab her upper arms and force her back.
“Hey, breath girl, take a breath.” A Welsh voice to her left insists, Gem turning quickly to view a small brunette wearing a black beanie with a daisy on the front of it. “Christ, Phil wasn’t kidding about you being a fighter but I promise you are safe.”
“Aimsey’s right, we won’t harm you.” Looking to her left the woman beside her makes her heart skip a beat, a stunningly beautiful blonde with her undercut dyed black and multiple facial piercings offers a kind smile.
Gem clears her throat and tries to speak but coughs instead, the brunette reaching into a pack nearby before bringing forth a water bottle she offers to the redhead who takes it with a small, grateful nod after sitting up gingerly this time fighting through the head rush that follows. Unscrewing the lid she barely has the thought it could be spiked before the scratchiness of her throat makes her decision for her, taking a few deep swallows before she focuses back on those around her, unable to fight back her suspicion as she glances between them while taking in the sparsely decorating living room she rested within.
“I don’t know what happened to you before and you do not have to tell me but I promise we will look out for you as long as you need.” The beautiful woman speaks yet again to Gem, reaching forward to lay her hand on Gem’s forearm who has to fight back the urge to flinch away. Her dark ocean eyes radiated safety but the injured girl couldn’t help how defensive she felt with her past still threatening to drag her back to terrible times in her memories.
“No offense, but I don’t trust anyone.” Gem clears her throat once more before she mumbles with acid lacing her tone, squashing down the small amount of regret she feels seeing this woman cringe back before Aimsey joins the conversation again.
“You don’t have to trust us, but I ask you to consider the fact we didn’t kill you in your sleep and Niki spent hours trying to bring down the swelling of your ankle before Kristin set it properly. You also left quite the impression on those who brought you back to us, even Techno admiring your moxie for attempting to set it yourself after the situation they found you in.” Aimsey sounds amused by everything, waiting as Gem searches their expression for any hint of a lie and finding none.
“I suppose that’s true.” Looking away from those at her side she observes what is around her, finding herself in a patched-up sleeping bag on the floor of a home they had clearly taken residence in for the night judging by the darkness outside the nearest window. Taking another few sips of her drink, she finally mumbles out, “Thank you for that.”
“I did nothing, I was moral support, but I am sure Niki appreciates that.” Aimsey tosses a wink at the beautiful woman who’s cheeks turn rosy, their conversation interrupted as two familiar figures burst through the door across the room.
“I see Hellfire is awake, good to see you mate.” Phil offers a warm grin above the giant steaming cauldron he carefully carried, Techno not far behind with serving utensils and dishes.
“Hellfire?” Gem questions with her first small smile at the annoyingly-friendly man, disliking how much she already liked the blonde despite barely knowing him.
“Well you weren’t awake long enough for us to ask your name and Techno dropped a snarky comment on the way back here about your fiery attitude alongside your stubborn-as-hell attitude and boom, ‘Hellfire’.” Placing the cauldron down on a thick towel the smell of delicious stew sweeps across those gathered as more people arrive from outside clearly joining them for their serving of dinner. “I don’t suppose you’d be willing to share that now—”
“Hellfire is fine.” Gem can’t help but retreat behind her defenses, unwilling to share even the smallest part about herself yet Phil nods in understanding.
“Hellfire it is, do you want some stew? I’d recommend you start small with a small portion first, enough you can take a painkiller if you want it but too much rich food is probably not good after you just spent several hours unconscious.”
“I would…but only if you can serve it in front of me?” Gem internally hates how difficult she is being to these people who clearly saved her life but her history keeps reminding her that no one can be trusted.
“Course mate.” Unphased by the demand, he does as she asks and Aimsey brings it over to where she is laying before returning for their own portion. Plopping down beside Gem they dig in the same time she does, Phil’s attention being drawn towards the two loud teenagers stumbling through the door who just appeared for their own suppers.
The stew is as delicious as it smells, Gem letting the first bite sit on her tongue absorbing the flavours of a well-cooked meal for the first time in many, many moons. She ate enough to get by as she travelled but there was something different about a meal someone else has prepared, taking several bites before Aimsey nudges their shoulder into Gem's upper arm dropping their voice so only she can hear.
“Want the run down on who is who?” Practically reading her mind, Gem quickly nods as she consumes more of her stew as Aimsey points to each person he describes with his spoon. “Starting off with the two teens Phil is serving the curly blonde is Tommy and the shorter brunette is Tubbo. Tommy can be abrasive and a bit overwhelming at first but that only hides his heart of gold and caring soul. Tubbo is a genius, clever and sharp as a whip but he can be brutally honest about things so don't be put off if he says something like that, its not personal.”
Turning Gem's attention to the two serving their dinner, Aimsey continues their explanation. “Of course you have already met Phil and Techno who we look to as the leaders of this group, besides Kristin who is Phil's wife but I think its her turn for watch alongside Ranboo so you will meet them later. Phil is a wisecracking, sarcastic guy with a bleeding heart, a trait he shares with his son Tommy, but he is protective to a fault and has always done his fucking best to keep those he views as his own safe. Technoblade can be somewhat distant and can come across that he doesn't care, but it would be very hard to find someone who is as loyal as he is. Also, they are a terrifying fighting pair who have years of fighting at each other's side and share an unbreakable bond filled with ages of trust and dedication to protecting their own.”
Pointing towards the beautiful woman who had been waiting at her side when Gem awoke the redhead noticed she had been joined by a massive man with a clean-shaven head who was trading glances between Niki and staring adoringly at the smaller handsome raven-haired man tucked into his side. “Other than Techno, Phil is closest with Niki who is quite knowledgeable in the medical field and also is a wonderful person you can talk about anything with and she will not judge you. The couple before her are grossly inseparable, their names are Fit and Pac. They are some of the most recent additions to our group but they have already proved themselves several times over as trustworthy. Fit is ex-military and very reliable in a fight where Pac did come from a life of thieving but that only means he is quick and Phil trusts him, which says a lot to me.”
“Wow…this is a big group.” Gem finishes her food while trying to record all this information, Aimsey stacking their bowls before patting her shoulder in a comforting manner.
“There are a few more yet but some are on watch and we are still waiting for one more raiding party to return so we aren't quite through with the overview yet but I'll give you a break for now.” Standing up quickly they bring their dishes over to Tommy and Tubbo who are cleaning them in the corner with two bins of water while loudly bickering about something.
She has to take another grounding breath as everything about being in a large group such as this rings so many of her alarm bells but her sense of reason fights back with how friendly everyone has been so far. As if sensing her mood she groans when the left side of her face suddenly aches, reminding her what happened the last time she allowed herself to trust people she rubs at the scarred skin beneath the scarf she wore tied across the grisly hollow within her face.
“Need something for the pain?” Gem startles as Niki appears before her, kneeling with a bottle of ibuprofen held out to the redhead who eyes it with distrust. “I'll take one before you do if that helps prove they are safe.”
Her kindness shines through like the sweetest beacon of hope, Gem reaching forward to take the bottle with a returned small smile after a few heartbeats of consideration. “I appreciate it but I'd rather not waste your resources unless you need it too.”
“I don't need any at the moment I just want you to feel safe here.” Niki's eyes swap to staring at the covered part of Gem's face with a sad expression, watching as she swallows back two pills before handing the bottle back. “I made sure your scarf was back in place after Phil dropped you in my lap but I won't hide from you that I did see the wound you lived through. It's impressive you did though I am sorry for whatever you faced. No one here will harm you in such a way as long as you are with us, I swear.”
“Thank you Niki.” Genuinely a little choked up at how certain the blonde before her sounded, she breaks their gaze to stare down at her wrapped ankle. “Any idea how long this will take to heal?”
“At least a few weeks, its a severe fracture and even with both mine and Kristin's expertise bones take time to mend. Our group has been searching for a settlement to fortify for a while as a more permanent base but haven't had any luck yet, this town doesn't quite match what we need but Phil is planning for us to stay for a few days anyway. Long enough to build you a proper brace and to recover enough that you can walk short distances."
“You don't have to delay your plans for me…”
“Too bad, it's already done.” Surprising them both, Techno's deep voice rumbles from where he stands off to Gem's blind side. “Even with your stubbornness Hellfire, you ain't getting anywhere fast on that foot and we could do with some time gathering supplies as this town is stock-full of them as its in a decently remote location. Niki, Phil asked for you if I can pry you away for a bit?”
Gem waves her off with another smile, fighting off the embarrassment of how caring everyone here was before Aimsey returns to her side. “We will probably be setting up for bed soon, would you prefer sleeping over here by yourself or do you want someone nearby guarding you? No pressure either way, Hellfire.”
Glancing around yet again the redhead yawns, noticing how various sleeping bags are being lain out across the hardwood living room floor and the small brunette at her side clutched one of their own. Eyeing them for just a moment longer her shoulders drop, Aimsey giving a cheer before laying out her plaid blankets and tossing a pillow down covered in a pillowcase stitched with cartoon figures from a show long ago. Normally Gem would have taken the first option but there was something about Aimsey that quieted her own anxieties, perhaps having someone close while she was vulnerable wasn't the worst. At least while she was healing, then something will change. Maybe.
Settling down Aimsey helps her by refilling Gem's water-bottle before laying down themselves, offering nothing else beyond a sweet goodnight and a bright smile they whisper. “Sleep well Hellfire, I look forward to getting to know you more in the morning.”
Almost quieter than she can hear, Gem can't help but mumble back. “You too Aimsey, thank you again.”
I'm gonna raise, raise hell
There's a story no one tells
You gotta raise, raise hell
Go on and ring that bell
“Can’t even stay awake for one fucking watch?!?! Useless, you are both useless!” Gem flinches back from the man yelling bloody murder before them, putting herself between him and her sister she tries her best not to wince away from his reprimands. “We were attacked because you couldn’t stay awake, people died due to your failure!”
“I’m so sorry.” Pearl tearfully replies behind Gem, clenching onto her arm despite them both being covered in blood after fighting for their lives when a horde had attacked them at midnight they had failed to alert the group of. It wasn’t their fault, they were both exhausted after a long day of travelling and recovering from injuries but their current leader was ruthless, any mistake was an unforgivable sin and many had been dealt harsh punishments for lesser accidents.
“Tell that to the three people we lost.” He hisses back, drawing forth his sharp knife that glinted in the sun as his faces twists from rage to almost a maniacal glee. “What’s the saying…an eye for an eye?”
“Punish me, hurt me, but don’t hurt Gem!” Pearl’s older sibling instincts took over, slotting herself in front of Gem who fights to hold her back.
“Pearl no, please don’t do this.” She pleads her sister who meets her sky-blue eyes to Gem’s emerald green, her expression a mix of terrified yet determined.
“It’s my job to protect you Gemmy, stay strong for me. Swear to me you will keep fighting to survive, live for me, I love you.”
Clinging to her brunette sister the redhead screams as other members of their group drag her away from Pearl, her last glimpse of her beautiful, strong sister being their leader holding a knife to her throat before slashing across with a vicious strike that left no doubt he aimed to kill.
Wailing and sobbing, Gem falls forward as her sister does the same reaching out one of her hands towards the last member of her family she has, watching the warmth of life leave her wonderful eyes while desperation and grief threaten to drown the redhead.
As this terrible trauma replays in her brain she becomes aware of someone shaking her shoulders, blinking her eye rapidly she comes to staring into Aimsey’s concerned gaze. In her terrified state all her previous distrust disappears and she throws herself into the small brunette’s arms who hugs her tight with one arm and rubs between her shoulders with her free hand.
“Breathe Hellfire, breathe for me, you are safe here away from whatever terror you just relived.” Gem buries her face in Aimsey’s collarbone as her shoulders heave, tears leaking from her eye as she holds on tight to her grounding point. “Shhhhhhh, calming breaths for me love, bring yourself back to the present.”
Another person joins their hug and with a blurry glimpse of blonde hair Niki presses in as well, Gem clinging to them both as she tries to shake off the terror that had left her reeling along with the sorrow that threatened to drown her. An incomprehensible conversation happens somewhere nearby before a door slams, Gem eventually prying her eye open to notice they had been left alone despite the multiple sleeping bags everywhere it seems they wanted to give the trio some privacy.
Niki weaves her hand through Gem’s wild curls, humming softly and they both embraced her as long as she needed, she had no idea how many times passed until she finally felt some semblance of calm. The pair of them slowly pull back searching her emerald eye with a thousand questions held behind their lips, waiting to see what Gem said first but as she remained quiet Niki broke the silence first.
“Want to talk about it? We awoke to you screaming out a name…I won’t pressure you if don’t want to but it might help to talk about it.”
Gem swallows heavily feeling how sore her throat is, Aimsey reaching over to grab a bottle of water for her to drink before she finally croaks out. “What name?”
“Pearl.” Niki repeats softly, reaching forward to grab her hand after waiting for a nod of consent. “Someone dear to you I take it?”
“She is—was my older sister.” A few stray tears still drop from her eye, ones Aimsey reaches forward gently to swipe away. “She was killed for something…something she shouldn’t have been.”
“Oh I am sorry lovely, that’s terrible.” Niki’s sounds genuinely upset hearing this, Gem turning to look at the blonde with the smallest smile.
“She didn’t deserve it, neither of us did.”
Before Niki can respond the kitchen door across from them softly swings open to reveal a beautiful woman with waist-length raven hair and tan skin waiting with a gentle smile, Aimsey waving her in when Gem doesn’t say anything further.
“Hello Fire Lily, I am Kristin.” Gem tilts her head at yet another nickname but can’t fight back the joy she feels from it, already sensing the fierce kindness behind the raven-haired woman’s words. As she approaches Gem admires the silver streaks through her tresses like falling stars, kneeling before her she offers a fresh mug of tea. “I find after a nightmare a hot drink helps settle my stomach so I brewed some, nothing fancy but I hope you enjoy and you will have to let me know what you take your tea with next time so I can get it perfect.”
“I love a spoonful of honey if you have any.” Gem quietly replies, taking the mug with a grateful smile as she cups it between her calloused palms.
“Of course, I’ll be right back sweetie.” Returning in mere moments Kristin produces a bottle of honey and a spoon, helping Gem make her tea the way she prefers before addressing her once more. “We are here for you Fire Lily, it seems people in your past may have not treated you kindly but there’s not a soul here who would hurt you in any way intentionally.”
“I appreciate the sentiment, I do…but it’s hard for me to trust those words.” Gem admits sadly as she stares down at her tea, sighing heavily. “Before Phil and Techno found me I had been wandering for at least four moons by myself, my heart hardened into thinking I could only rely on myself and its still something I struggle with even though you all have been nothing but kind.”
“Gods I want to stab whoever hurt you.” Aimsey’s outburst surprises them all before Gem giggles, seeing the fight deep within their coffee-coloured stare.
“Say the word and I’ll sic Techno, Phil and Sneeg on them, trust me they will regret being born.” Kristin joins with a smirk, reaching forward to pat Gem’s knee. “Only time will heal that mistrust but I promise we won’t abandon you, perhaps one day we will part ways but as long as you are healing we will keep you safe.”
“I’m not a burden? Techno mentioned it might be hard having another mouth to feed…” Trailing off her mind reflects on that fateful day in the forest, curling in on herself while blowing on her tea.
“Oh he’s a big grump, I treasure his caution but ultimately Phil made the decision to bring you back to us and we are in a good place currently.” Kristin reaches forward to nudge her chin up so their eyes meet once more, her dark eyes shining. “One more soul for our group is a blessing as far as I see it, plus you got Techno’s respect even if he will never verbally admit to it after you pulled a knife on him before trying to set your own break.”
“Generally not advised to do so but I have to say that’s badass.” Niki chuckles, Aimsey nodding along.
“Geez girl, facing two potential threats and you decide to set your own break in front of them? The way Phil described it…you earned my respect before we even properly met.”
“You are too nice.” Gem blushes, taking another sip of her tea to hide her face.
“Now, did you want some more painkillers before you try to sleep again? I can also offer you another tea mixture I have concocted that acts a sleep aid, should help keep away that nightmare that plagued you.” Kristin offers as Gem finishes her drink, taking a breath to consider before she holds her cup back out to the raven-haired woman.
“Sleeping aid sounds wonderful, actually.”
“You got it Fire Lily, I’ll be right back.”
All three fuss over her as she lays back down, Niki moving her own sleeping bag to be closer as Gem drinks the second cup of tea she had been given, Kristin adding the perfect amount of honey and she finishes her drink quickly. Trying to clear her mind of the nightmare she yawns, drowsiness sweeping through her body as Niki quickly checks on her ankle before helping her get comfortable once more, Gem’s last consideration between slumber brings her into their embrace is just how damn kind everyone here had been.
You came upon a lightning strike
And eyes of bright clear blue
I took that tie from around my neck
And gave my heart to you
I sent my love across the sea
And though I didn't cry
That voice will haunt my every dream
Until the day I die
When dawn arrives its a peaceful one, the sun rising above the farmhouse where Phil’s group had decided to hold up for a bit while their newest member healed. Techno dragged Tommy out of bed, ignoring his complaints the entire time, to go outside to gather firewood while debriefing with Sneeg, Purpled, Hannah and Quackity who had returned from their raiding trip just before dawn with a good amount of supplies both between persevered food and more medical kits. Phil, Niki and Kristin team up on making everyone breakfast while Aimsey helps Gem change her bandages and take another round of painkillers as her ankle aches, fighting to heal itself.
For the first time in many, many mornings she woke in a surprisingly light mood despite her night terror last night, Aimsey helping by braiding her hair and tending to her various needs before she leaves to fetch Gem breakfast.
As she is gone someone Gem hasn’t met yet joins her in the main house, a broad man dressed in themes of royal blue strides inside beside a tall lanky young man adorned in a bright purple hoodie. The older brunette wears a friendly grin where the lanky young man seems apprehensive, something the redhead understands well as she waits for what they will say.
“So you are our newest member? I’m Sneeg, great to meet you!” Holding out his hand he kneels before Gem who clasps it with a firm handshake, assessing everything about the muscular man and respecting what she sees as he bears scars from a life of fighting but still has a brightness to him that's hard to hold onto.
“Hellfire is what they have been calling me.” Gem nods, Sneeg letting out a belly laugh at her reply.
“So I’ve heard, its hard to crack Techno’s walls but he warms up eventually.” The tall purple-sweater wearing blonde beside him scoffs, bringing Sneeg’s attention to his companion. “Much like my friend here, this is Purpled.”
When Gem meets the dirty blonde’s gaze her mouth drops open, noticing one of his own eyes is gray with a healed scar slashed through it, her own hand unconsciously reaching up to touch her left cheek before she stops herself, switching to what she hopes is a friendly smile instead. “Hello Purpled.”
“Hey.” Short and to the point, he nods before he disappears from the room towards what Aimsey had told her was the kitchen where their weapon horde was currently stashed alongside their food.
“I’m sorry, don’t mind him. He’s always been quiet.” Sneeg sighs, watching him go before he returns his gaze to Gem.
“It’s okay, I get it.” She shrugs, unable to stop wondering if his damaged eye story was similar to her own. “Were you part of the raiding party Aimsey mentioned?”
“We were, alongside Quackity who is fantastic at keeping morale up and Hannah, another of our best fighters who has one of the sweetest hearts.” Sneeg’s eyes shine with pride talking about his friends, groaning as he sits down before Gem before Aimsey rejoins them with two plates of breakfast.
“This smells delicious.” Gem mumbles, nodding her thanks to Aimsey as Sneeg playfully glares at the small brunette.
“Didn’t bring enough for me?” He teases, Aimsey waving him off.
“You’re a grown up with working legs, get your own. In fact I’m sure you had to walk past where breakfast was being made before you came to bother Gem so why didn’t you get your own?”
“I just spent all night gathering supplies for us, I am tired.” He whines, his eyes twinkling mischievously.
“Walking twenty feet back outside to get your own food won’t kill you then, chop chop.”
Grumbling he gets to his feet to do as Aimsey directed, Purpled following soon after as Aimsey and Gem dug into the bacon and eggs that had been expertly cooked to perfection. Soon enough Sneeg joins them again alongside Kristin, Phil and Techno who make plans for the day ahead while sitting in a circle around where Gem rested. Her instincts still tried to fight against this sense of belonging that had already begun to settle in between them including her within their daily activities and the care they had already provided her without asking for any favours in return.
After they finish their meal she is introduced to charming Quackity and beautiful Hannah who stay to chat for a bit before retreating upstairs with the rest of their raiding party, needing a few hours rest before they continue with their days as they were up all night. Gem is left thinking about Hannah’s intricate and stunning sleeve of tattoos covering her right arm, a climbing mass of crimson red roses surrounded by jade green leaves she was quite proud of that left Gem in awe.
“She’s quite the talented artist.” Aimsey read Gem’s mind, a habit he had picked up very quickly, the redhead blushing slightly as she agrees. “If you ever want one she’d be happy to tattoo you, many of our group have pieces she designed for us.”
“I’ve always wanted a dragon one…” Gem says wistfully, Aimsey’s face lighting up.
“Oh that would be so cool Hellfire, you’d rock that!”
Their conversation quickly becomes the cool ink they have seen throughout their lives until Aimsey is finally called away, waving goodbye leaving Gem to her own devices. For the first time in days she takes out her weapons to perform maintenance on them, feeling grateful those she was around didn’t take them away from her as they made her feel safe, she is quick to clean out her gun before moving onto sharpening her hunting knife with steady, rhythmic strokes of her whetstone.
A while passes before Purpled is the first to emerge from upstairs, with a small moment of hesitation he eventually makes his way over to where Gem is resting with her foot propped up and sits down before her. With practised ease he draws out a hunting blade from the sheath attached to his belt and meets Gem’s appraising gaze.
“Can I borrow your whetstone? Tommy stole mine and I have yet to get it back from him.”
“Course.” Gem smiles, handing it over while quietly observing the stern young man before her. A few beats of silence passes before Purpled speaks yet again, meeting his stormy blue eye to the redhead’s emerald orb.
“So how did you lose yours?” Blunt and to the point, Gem flinches back before she shakes it off, figuring if anyone would understand the loss it would be him.
“Someone ripped it out after they killed my sibling, you?”
“Sword slash to the face, I kept the eye but lost my sight.” Holding up his blade to the light, he spots an imperfection and begins working away at it once more. “Its hard to aim with no depth perception, good job on surviving.”
“Hell I barely did, the wound became infected and honestly I have no idea how I lived.” For the first time since being here she reaches up to untie the scarf covering the upper left side of her face, letting it drop to her lap to show off the ugly scarring. “After it happened I dragged myself into a nearby cave and lost myself to an exhausted sleep full of fevers and painful healing, relying on whatever wandered in as food when I could keep it down and a small spring that ran directly into the cavern. Once I got through the worst of it I got up and started walking, not stopping until that horde attacked me which Phil and Techno protected me from.”
“Hm, similar story.” The smallest part of Purpled’s indifferent mask cracks, pausing his movements as he observes Gem with a renewed esteem. “They picked my sorry ass up shortly after my own attack, nursed me back to health and I have been here ever since.”
The redhead is left reeling as yet another member of this group she feels kinship towards, relating quite a lot to Purpled beyond his blind eye she recognized the front he held before him was a form of defense but he was loyal to a fault behind it. Left for dead and surviving long enough for Phil and Techno to save him, they practically had the same backstory before they arrived here.
Purpled finishes his task, tucking his blade back into his belt before he stands up with a small nod of acceptance.
“Welcome to the team, Hellfire, you are good people.”
Niki appears at the tail end of their conversation with a pleased expression spotting Purpled, they exchange a few quick words before she comes to Gem’s side as Purpled leaves out the front door.
“How are you feeling?” She asks as she begins to unwrap Gem’s foot to check on her ankle, the redhead playing with her wild curls reflecting on what just happened.
“I mean physically it hurts but mentally…I am starting to come around.” Gem’s heart sings seeing how joyful Niki is with her reply, pulling out a bag of ice to place against the joint for a few moments as she winces while the injury loses it’s tight support.
“Purpled doesn’t often talk to anyone, he must have seen something within you. I hope you had a good chat.”
“We are a lot more alike than I realized…but I don’t think that’s a bad thing.” Gem notices her scarf still lays on her lap but doesn’t make any move to cover her scar again.
“I had a feeling it would be that way.” Niki smiles, reaching into her bag to produce a small bag of cookies. “Want one?”
“Oh I haven’t had a cookie in years, yes please!” Gem practically bounces in delight, Niki giggling as she hands over a chocolate chip cookie, biting into it quickly she mumbles her appreciation as she gets lost in the sweet delight. “Kristin makes them best, she’s a master in the kitchen.”
Taking her time after the first hasty bite she enjoys the melted chocolate on her tongue, while she eats it Niki checks how her ankle is healing with gentle prods around the break before wrapping it back up quickly. Not yet out of surprises she yet again reaches into her black knapsack covered in pins and buttons to produce a brace, quick to wrap her ankle in it Gem eyes it with confusion which Niki answers easily.
“They stumbled across a pharmacy yesterday and Phil had requested for them to keep an eye out for one, they got lucky and found this still within its packaging. Its perfect for what you need as breaks like these can take at least a moon to heal but hopefully this at least hastens you being able to get back on your feet. Now that the swelling is starting to settle I do plan to help you with some daily stretches to keep your mobility and build some strength back but those don’t have to start until tomorrow. For now, enjoy your cookie and newfound brace, it should relieve some of the pain.” While Niki explains she packs back up her first aid kit, placing another cookie on Gem’s thigh she reaches forward to cup the left side of her face. “I wish we had found you sooner so I could have helped with this too but at least you are with us now.”
Gem tries to fight back her tears before she loses, leaning into Niki’s palm her voice shakes as she replies. “What did I do to deserve your kindness?”
“Oh beautiful, all you had to do was exist. We will never ask for anything more from you.”
I'm gonna raise, raise hell
There's a story no one tells
You gotta raise, raise hell
Go on and ring that bell
The next two weeks fly by as Gem is helped by those around her at least back onto her feet and walking short distances again after Phil and Sneeg modify her walking stick to be more supportive it becomes much easier for her to move. Turns out the town they had holed up in was good for a short term stay but Techno requested they find something that would be easier to fortify soon now that Gem was a bit more mobile. They had a small herd of horses Techno organized tending to and on the morning of the thirteenth day they loaded the redhead onto one alongside some of their supplies and prepared to leave this town behind them.
Ranboo clambers up onto another of their horses nearby with a shy nod towards the redhead, they had only interacted a handful of times but they were sweet, a bit quieter than the other teens in the group but plenty thoughtful and were a kind soul. Adjusting the mask they wore to cover the lower half of their face where they also had some nasty scaring Gem returns her gaze to the baby blue house they had been staying in for one last glance. It was a bittersweet one, the circumstances that lead her to being here were ones that had shifted her perspective on its head, though she still didn’t have the courage to share her birth name she very much enjoyed those she now found herself among.
“Everyone ready?” Phil raises his voice to address the group where he stands at the front of their travelling party, smiling as he receives many excited yells back he turns to head down the main road towards the forest that surrounded them.
Gem guided her steed into following Ranboo who lead their other horses covered in saddlebags and supplies that the humans didn’t have space to carry. Before arriving here Gem had little experience with horses but since she had started to feel better Techno had been taking her out for daily outings to acquaint her with their herd as it was decided early on this was the best way for her to travel when they chose to leave as her ankle was still weeks away from being healed fully.
Breathing in the wonderful scent of the forest they found themselves in the redhead feels at peace and cared for, leaps and bounds ahead of the survival mode she had arrived in. During her time with this group she had grown close with Aimsey, Niki and Purpled in particular, the last being a friendship none of them saw coming but she now enjoyed immensely. Especially as he had volunteered himself into helping her improve her aiming skills despite only having one eye as they shared the same gruesome injury but had fought to overcome it in this post apocalyptic world they found themselves in. He was harsh but fair with his instructions and her skills improved immensely already. She was a decent shot before but now she was downright lethal, Techno even offering a rare compliment after he watched one of their practises about a week ago which left her buzzing and content as she respected him quite a lot as a fighter among other things.
Aimsey jogs to catch up to where Gem is before she slows to a walk beside where the redhead is perched on their dappled mare, hiking their knapsack higher they grin while looking up towards her friend. “What kind of place would you like to live in?”
“I’ve always wanted a farmhouse with a big ol’ greenhouse attached.” Gem replies, her mind far away thinking of the house design she had imagined in the past. “Pearl had quite the green thumb and taught me everything I know about tending to crops, herbs and various flowers. We spoke many times about one day finding an abandoned homestead in good shape, sectioning off the property and living the rest of our lives there.”
Her sister was still a painful subject to discuss but she still found herself doing it more and more with these people who had saved her and she had started to develop friendships with. It was a way to keep the joyful memories alive, plus they never pressed for anything more than she was willing to provide at the time which had begun to heal some of the trust issues that had been beaten into her from those in her past.
“That sounds wonderful, maybe we can find one with a wrap around porch for you to host visitors upon cause I would be coming over every day to hang out there while you did your chores.”
“I’d expect nothing less.” Gem grins at the brunette wearing a daisy hat while Niki and Kristin also match their pace and join the conversation.
“Those farmhouses always had the most wonderful kitchens, imagine we find one and we can get a proper oven going again after we hook up electricity to it. I’d be baking up a storm every day if I could.”
“Now it just sounds like you all want to move in with me.” Gem teases, examining her heart to find if that was something she wanted she continued speaking after a few heartbeats. “Honestly, I’d love that. Living alone in a house meant for a family sounds isolating.”
“With us at your side you will never be alone again.” Niki promises, determination written everywhere across her beautiful features. “Also I call one of the rooms in this house to make into a music studio alongside my bedroom, maybe if we are lucky enough we can find one with a piano I could fix back into shape and tune, I did always promise Tommy and Tubbo I’d teach them.”
“Guys, this house doesn’t even exist yet.” Gem laughs which the other three join in on, warmth filling her gut at just how much affection these three alone had swaddled her with not to mention how they were inserting themselves into her future. “But sure, sounds like a plan.”
“I would like to request one with a big yard to set up a shooting range.” Purpled speaks shocking them all as he had snuck up on them, patting his rifle strapped to his back. “Gotta keep up with your lessons.”
“Okay so the checklist now is a farm house with a wrap around porch, a functioning greenhouse, plenty of rooms for people to set up creative pursuits and surrounding land where we can set up a shooting range?”
“Don’t forget the kitchen!” Kristin pipes up, Gem nodding along.
“Of course, and the kitchen so Kristin can bake every day to her hearts desire. Wow this is specific.”
“We will find something, I have faith.” Aimsey finishes the conversation with a certainty in his tone that’s impossible to argue with.
They are on the road for several days before they run into their first major problem; a few zombies here and there weren’t an issue but soon they had to pass what was once a major city and there were far too many hordes still present for them to be impulsive about this. Having set up a camp to plan a strategy just before the dangerous trek past the sun is setting as Gem is finally able to slide out of her saddle with a pained groan. Her horse had certainly made things easier overall but she was still quite sore as her ankle was only maybe halfway healed by Niki and Kristin’s estimations, Purpled helping her sit down on a log Techno had rolled closer to the fire before lapsing into a conversation with Sneeg, Phil, Quackity, Fit and Pac about their strategy going forward.
Kristin, Niki and Ranboo work flawlessly together stoking a fire within the pit they dug out before roasting some of the fresh meat Techno and Phil hunted for them during their travels to go along with the greens and herbs that had been foraged to make a fresh salad which Gem helps assemble alongside Ranboo. After a plan is made everyone settles down to eat and wind down for the evening, watch schedules are made and thanks given to those who helped craft their meal.
Like a well oiled machine tents are quickly set up and the horses are taken care of, individuals and pairs slowly leaving the fire until its just Gem, Aimsey and Purpled who had offered to take the first shift of the watch. Running her checks on her pistol she leaves it nearby as Purpled goes to stand near the entrance of the clearing they found themselves within, Aimsey doing the same with the opposite point facing the forest instead.
Sliding off the log Gem rests her back against it instead, rather sore in her previous position this is easier on her body and lets her poke at the fire with the stick Phil left nearby for her. Tending to the flames she grows contemplative of what her life had become, or rather how it had improved since she met these wonderful people who protected her. This group was so much better than anything she had ever experienced before and not for the first time she wishes desperately Pearl was still alive to see it.
“I miss you, big sis.” She mumbles to no one, looking up towards the shimmering stars above hoping her beautiful Pearl watched over her with pride. “I found people who care for me and ask for nothing in return, something I am still struggling to believe and trust…but that’s changing…slowly.”
She talks a bit longer to someone no longer here before as much as she fights it, her eye slowly starts to slip shut with how tired she was after their current journey. The peace of sleep drags her in as the fire crackles before her, her awareness disappearing into the sweet silence of slumber.
This harmony doesn’t last for long though, as shouting awakes her in a panic while people rush around her with their weapons drawn. Gem’s breath catches in her chest realizing they were under attack by one of the hordes from the city, clearly their camp hadn’t been set far enough away and the ravenous undead had come searching. Trying to stand up far too quickly she forgets her crutch and falls over after her foot refuses to take her weight, landing with an agonized gasp she fights like hell to calm her anxiety but is unable to with the chaotic environment around her. The left side of her face screams in pain after she bounces it off the forest floor, dazed she can only lay there as her group protect each other from the far too many zombies around them.
It seems to take hours before the numbers thin, Techno, Purpled and Sneeg working together to take down the last of them as the rest of them regroup around the fire. Gem’s panic about the attack shifts back into terror as her mind forces her to remember the last time this happened and what it had cost her, slowly curling up into a ball and forcing her face down towards the ground as she attempts to rein in her racing breath to no avail. This panic attack is far too strong and she can only brace for the repercussions that are sure to follow, so stuck in her own head she doesn’t even notice the trio of her friends that gather around her.
She can’t even understand what is being spoken to her as her heart thunders against her ribcage, her fingers and toes becoming tingly as she takes in less and less oxygen with her gasps. Eventually someone grabs her hands which had begun to claw at her skin, holding them tight as another forces her chin to face them. Through a blurry gaze Aimsey comes into view, determination written all over their expression as they mime deep breaths.
“I need you to slow your breathing for me love, breathe in—hold it for a few, and then out.” Repeating that phrase Gem tries her best to follow along before her body starts to listen, heart slowing down as she convinces herself she isn’t in immediate danger. It takes a while, noticing Purpled off to her right and Niki to her left they shield her from the rest as they tend to the corpses strewn about their camp.
“Please don’t hate me…I didn’t mean to fall asleep.” Is the first thing the redhead chokes out and Aimsey’s eyes fill with pity and understanding, shaking their head vehemently.
“Fire Lily we could never hate you, I swear. No one here does. Purpled and I heard the warning signs with enough time we were able to rouse those we could and everyone survived. I swear.”
Tugging one hand away Gem rubs at the left side of her face, Aimsey following the movement with a knowing glare. “I failed you…”
“Hellfire, you didn’t fail us. No one here blames you.”
“Is that why you lost your eye?” Far too clever for his own good, Purpled joins the conversation staring at the scar she hid behind her scarf clearly having put two and two together. “They nearly blinded you over something like this?”
Taking a few more deep breaths Gem decides to hell with it, they had already seen her at her worst, they should know about her largest regret too. “Pearl and I were on watch for the last group we ran with and we were both so exhausted from the previous few days we drifted off and missed hearing the signs of a horde. Three people from the group died and the leader killed Pearl in front of everyone as retribution before turning on me, claiming it was an eye for an eye he then tore it from my skull with the knife he had used to kill my sister.”
“Oh that fucking bastard.” The harshness in Niki’s voice is not something Gem is used to hearing, turning to the blonde woman holding her shoulders drinking in the rage that twisted her expression before her nurturing spirit swept forth, holding Gem tighter. “That wasn’t a fair at all, you didn’t deserve that. Neither of you did.”
“If we ever run into your old group, tell me. Their breathing would all cease before the next sunrise, Hellfire, I vow it to you.” Purpled promises, Gem fighting back tears hearing how protective they all were of her.
Looking up at the stars above she blinks back her emotions before facing the three who had come to mean everything to her, clearing her throat she prepares to reveal one final thing. “Also…my real name is Gem. As much as I like the nicknames and would still encourage you to use them when you’d like—I want you to know the real me too.”
“Gem huh? Should have figured you’d have a gorgeous name too.” Playfully adding a flirty tone, Aimsey winks before dragging her in for a hug. “Welcome home Gem, you are safe with us.”
I dug a hole inside my heart
To put you in your grave
At this point it was you or me
And mama didn't raise no slave
You took my face in both your hands
And looked me in the eye
And I went down with such a force
That in your grave I lie
Rolling green grass surrounded a gorgeous farmhouse freshly painted a deep blue contrasted by the cloud white of the doors and shutters, protected by tall and sturdy fences that were regularly tended to. This home stood beside a row of a few different buildings not too far from a town that was slowly being built back up by those who had chosen it as their permanent base. With a massive lake to one coast, cliffs to another and a huge forest around them it was easily defensible but far away from any major cities, everything about it was all they could have ever wanted.
Sitting on the front porch of the farmhouse Gem awaits her friends while rubbing her ankle which had finally healed in the time it took for them to find this place. She was still forbidden from any heavy workload by both Kristin and Niki but she managed to convince them to let her do some lighter chores, finding her purpose in preparing their food for preservation or overseeing the crops they planted in the fields that were directly south of her home. Sneeg and Techno were still working on fixing the broken down greenhouse nearby but they promised to her it would be done before winter arrived allowing them to have fresh crops year round but at a smaller scale.
Taking a deep breath of the fresh air, Gem reflects on what led her to where she is now. The moment she spotted this house she knew it was meant for her, Niki and Purpled claiming rooms within it alongside anyone who ended up staying over each night as their gatherings often went late and they lost track of time. Kristin, Phil, Techno, Tommy and Tubbo lived in the neighbouring farmhouse closest to them, everyone else paired up in places just a few minutes walk down the road but still well within the large walls of logs Sneeg had been in charge of being constructed around them to keep any hordes away.
This neighbourhood they had stumbled across was perfect down to how many houses were still standing were the exact number they needed for their current group, plus a few new recruits they had picked up along the way. Gem smirks thinking of the six they had added to their ranks and how well they fit in with the personalities they already have.
Etho was smart as a whip yet quiet, except when he was bickering with Bdubs, who knew even more about plants than Gem and held a large amount of knowledge about landscaping and design. Martyn could be quite the troublemaker but it was all in good fun, the blonde was loyal to a fault and always tried his best to make everyone smile. The gremlin trait was shared by the youngest of the six also, a tricksy blonde named Grian, on the other hand he held talent in organization and often put together everyone’s schedules. The fifth member was someone Gem grew very close to in record time, Cleo shared her fiery red hair and wielding their dry sarcasm like a specialized weapon. Last but not least was an excitable brunette man named Ren who could bring a smile to anyone’s face with his dramatics and was a theatre kid through and through.
“GEMMMMM!!!” Aimsey’s bright shout scares her out of her thinking but its with a smile on her face, raising her head to look down the driveway at the approaching group before her.
Aimsey, Kristin, Phil, Purpled, and Sneeg approached holding various containers stacked high with fresh vegetables and fruits, Aimsey bouncing ahead before she tackles Gem in a hug that knocks the breath from her lungs, both collapsing back with laughter. Holding her best friend tight the redhead enjoys simply being safe within their embrace before the rest join them, the brunette and redhead separating to get to their feet.
“Harvest went well?” Gem eyes the delicious food everyone held with a wide grin, already plotting in her head what they could use each for.
“So well, we have so much canning and drying to do.” Kristin’s eyes shine with excitement, Phil chuckling along with his wonderful wife.
“We aren’t going to see you for days, are we?”
“Not if you want all this preserved!” She retorts with a teasing smirk, Phil dramatically sighing.
“Gem, stop stealing my wife away from me, I miss her.” Turning his sky blue gaze on Gem, she holds up her hands in surrender.
“Hey I don’t think I am entirely at fault here.”
“She’s right, there’s a list of women who want to claim time in my day.” Kristin mentions triumphantly as her husband rolls his eyes.
“Is in the kitchen fine?” Sneeg nods towards what he holds, Gem waving him in.
“Yep, I cleared the table just for this, feel free to head in.”
The small group gathers in the kitchen after everyone finishes placing down their various baskets filled with so many different varieties of fresh crops, a hundred recipes appearing in Gem’s mind as her eye glances across everything their hard work had grown. Bright orange carrots, leafy green spinach and cabbage, ruddy beats, huge heads of broccoli and cauliflower along with many fruits like crisp apples, juicy pears, and crimson cranberries waited to be turned into delicious dishes and decadent desserts.
“I see many pies in our future.” Kristin rubs her hands together as Gem nods along in agreement, picking up one of the apples to admire the shine on its ruby skin. “Tubbo and Sneeg finished fixing up the windmill after it broke last week so we should be able to start producing flour again soon.”
“Just in time, I think our last baking session used up the last of what we had stored.” Gem replies, moving to check the container within the pantry to confirm her suspicions. “Yea, we only have a few cups left.”
“I am glad Sneeg is taking Tubbo under his wing, he’s clever and could do with some time away from Tommy’s bad influence.” Despite his words Phil is grinning, bantering was their family’s love language and if the eccentric blonde was here he’d be tossing it right back.
“Speaking of the kids Ranboo asked if they could join our next baking session.”
“Of course, anytime.” Gem replies with joy, loving just how close they all remained which had only be reinforced while they created their permanent base within this once abandoned town.
“Me too, me too!” Aimsey raises their hand, making Gem and Kristin laugh.
“Only if you restrain yourself from stealing all our raw ingredients.” Gem teases, knocking her hip into Aimsey where they stood close to her side.
“I can only promise to do my best.”
“Do your best to steal them or to restrain yourself?” Kristin questions with a knowing expression, Aimsey tossing back a wink.
“It’s a surprise.”
The sun slowly sets towards the horizon as they organize their harvest into different baskets to store in the enclosed front porch for later use, with the temperatures being relatively cool they could remain there for a few days until they were needed. They save a few to make a huge serving of spaghetti to serve fragrant tomato sauce over, taking their bowls out to the wrap around porch to enjoy while they watch the sunset off in the distance over the lake.
Gem ends up sandwiched between Aimsey and Niki, who appeared midway through them preparing dinner, upon a wooden bench while the rest took the rest of the deck furniture except Purpled who chose to sit on the floor with his back resting against one of the roof supports. Easy conversation strikes up between various people as several more members of their settlement appear now that they know supper has been served, disappearing into the house before coming back with their own dishes.
Ranboo, Tubbo, Tommy, Fit, Pac, Quackity and Hannah dig in happily to their pasta while discussing different topics with whoever they ended up near. Its chaos, but a happy sort of chaos which was something Gem had come to crave as these souls around her meant the world to her now. It had been a long few months but they proved time and time again their patience and understanding was genuine, and she never had to prove anything to them as all the ever wanted was her to be safe and happy.
Lapsing into conversation with the two wonderful beings beside her they talk about what was coming next with their home repairs and how excited they were for a functional greenhouse, turns out Niki also had quite the green thumb and happily absorbed any of the knowledge Gem shared when asked for advice or guidance about their crops. Aimsey had been helping Niki try to fix the piano that stood in the front room of their farmhouse and they were close, something everyone was excited about as then they could also host music nights.
They were still deciding on what to call their new town, it had been a hot debate for weeks ever since they found this place but Gem knew they would settle on something soon. Her personal favourite was Emerald Lake, a tribute to their leader’s matching emerald gems they always wore as earrings and the huge body of water that would sustain them for years to come.
Eventually people slowly start to filter out as the evening sweeps forth, either in pairs or as individuals they pass along their thanks for the meals before heading off towards their home close by. As the moon starts to rise its just Aimsey, Purpled and Niki left, the latter two lived with Gem in the farmhouse where Aimsey’s primary residence was with Ranboo and Sneeg but they often crashed on their sofa.
Gem is leaning against Niki where they are sat at the top of the stairs admiring the night sky, Purpled off to their left still leaning against the support where Aimsey stood nearby fidgeting with a lighter. Crickets are the only thing breaking the silence as they enjoy each other’s company, the redhead admiring the stars above thinking again about how much Pearl would have loved this place.
With her friend’s help they had constructed a small grave for her late sister near one of the biggest maple trees on the farmhouse property, it was nothing fancy beyond a few stacked stones and an engraving into its bark but it was perfect. It had become her regular routine in the morning for Gem to brew her tea before going to spend time with the monument, talking away about everything and anything to the memory of her family. Often it was a solo affair but sometimes she asked for company which her new family gladly provided, they never strived to replace Pearl and instead asked for any memories Gem was willing to talk about which she could now do with a smile on her face. Even if that story brought tears they comforted her without question or judgement, allowing her to find a certain peace she never had before.
Clearing her throat, she turns her head to address each of the trio around her with her next words. “My life has become so much better since I have met you all, thank you.”
“Gem, you are a delight.” Aimsey comes to sit on her other side, laying her head on the redhead’s shoulder.
“Cookie?”
She can’t help but burst out laughing at Purpled holding out a bag of chocolate chip cookies during a time she is trying to be sentimental, catching the knowing glint in his eye. “I’d love one but don’t think you are getting out of being appreciated.”
“Damnit.” He mumbles, barely able to hold the scowl he’s wearing as he gives a cookie to each person around him. “You always see through my tricks, Hellfire.”
“As mysterious and withdrawn as you pretend to be we all know there's a sweetheart buried in there.” Niki responds with a smirk, Purpled’s face shifting to a rare wide grin before he bites into the cookie he held.
“I could thank you all in a hundred ways for helping me come out of my shell, you helped glue back together someone who had lost faith in everything.” Gem’s heart spills out through her words, letting her glance linger on each person she talks about. “Aimsey you encouraged me to keep fighting, you held out your hand to someone who didn’t know how to accept kindness anymore and were patient enough to wait until I took it. Niki you’ve been at my side each and every step helping heal my physical injuries and supporting me as I pieced together my shattered mindset. Purpled you taught me how to fight and helped me find a better form of myself among the wreckage. I don’t know if we have enough time in this life for me to repay all you have done for me but I am eternally grateful you gave me a chance.”
“And we appreciate your words but we only helped guide you along this path, despite it all we could see the smallest spark of hope and humanity still within you, you fed it the strength to grow and shape who you are now.” Niki grabs Gem’s hand as she says this, a single tear dropping from her captivating eyes. “We gave you the space to find your motivation again and its repayment enough to have become your friend and someone I trust at my side, it’s all we would ever as for, Gem.”
“What she said.” Purpled’s mouth is full of cookie crumbles but he joins in regardless, the redhead snickering at the dirty blonde’s antics who knows exactly how he is acting and she wouldn’t change him for anything.
“No matter what you went through before you allowed yourself to trust again. We are just happy we could be on this journey with you.” Aimsey joins in while laying a hand on her other arm and squeezing, smiling brightly as they speak. “Now, I demand you never speak of any sort of repayment towards us again for the pleasure of becoming your friend is so much more than enough, I just want a happy life with my dearest Gem.”
Tossing an arm over each of their shoulders she yanks them both in for a hug, Niki reaching out to pull Purpled in too as they fall back with a hearty round of laughter before munching on the sweet treats Kristin had baked recently which Purpled must have foraged from the kitchen earlier. They stay up far too late delving into the most wild conversations as they work their way through the entire bag of desserts before they decide to retire to bed, yawns exchanged all around they trade goodnights before retreating to their individual rooms besides Aimsey who sets up the sofa for sleep.
When Gem settles into bed that night she can’t help but let out a few more tears, thinking of both what she has lost along with all the amazing things she has gained. Of course they were still dealing with the apocalypse and the repercussions of society’s collapse but they had also found a lovely paradise they could rebuild through hard work relying on the family they had gathered along the way.
After brushing her teeth and braiding her hair she stops for a few moments to perch upon her window-seat to stare out at the rising moon which is a tiny sliver against the dark starry sky, running her fingers across the smooth pearls of a bracelet they had found in an abandoned house which had been immediately gifted to her. She only took it off to sleep and shower these days, it had certainly seen better days but each time Gem spotted it she felt closer to the family that had been left behind and stolen from her. Kristin had helped her restring it at one point already and Tubbo made her a brand new clasp when the old one broke, just like her it had been through tough times but it was only stronger because of it.
She would never get back those times with her sister but honestly…that was okay. Gem would miss her with everything she had for as long as she may live but she found comfort with those around her now. Healing isn’t linear and grief certainly isn’t either, but she had help navigating those tough waters surrounded by people who had given her everything and more.
Taking a deep breath she stands up and she presses a kiss to the bracelet before placing it down on her dresser, falling into bed with a tired sigh but a small smile she tucks herself in to her cozy bed covered in a beautiful knit blanket. Tomorrow they would be spending all day making delicious jams and maybe even a few pies out of the fruits of their hard work, while those in charge of those chores tackled that Sneeg, Tubbo, Phil and Techno would be putting the finishing touches on the greenhouses reinforcements before running a test of the fan systems to see if they had fixed the problem with it. This life they were building here was sustainable and full of purpose, a far cry from where she had come from wandering aimlessly with no goals of her own beyond survival.
It might be the end of the world but it was also the beginning of Gem’s new life, and she was finally excited to face it with her new family at her side in Emerald Lake settlement housed in the farmhouse of her dreams filled with friends who encouraged her to be her best.
What a wonderful life she is about to lead, from the ashes of old something has been born anew. A broken girl had been saved by two complete strangers who knew nothing about her and gave her a second chance anyway, she refused to look back in regret anymore as she had found her place with people who wanted her for exactly who she was and she was a very lucky soul because of it.
I'm gonna raise, raise hell
There's a story no one's telling
You gotta raise, raise hell
Go on and ring that bell
Go on and ring that bell
Go on and ring that bell
Go on and ring that bell