The Aftermath

S6E1: Fix You

Two weeks have passed since the traumatic collapse of the sanctuary, leading to the life altering torment that will forever hinder the group's dynamic. Everyone's mental capacity is practically subliminal, barely any words being shared with one another.
While their mindsets grow shallow, the air grows more cool and crisp, a snowstorm soon to be expected from the sudden plummet in temperature. There's no way they can live amongst the outskirts of this demolished sanctuary during the harsh weather.
The past two deaths remain lodged in their memories, this constant sorrow clinging on for dear life. However, these hardships have affected everyone differently. For some, they were able to adapt while others crumbled to their own emotions. After all, they have alternative methods for coping.
Productivity has been at an all time high, needing that extra labor to escape their cruel thoughts for at least a moment. They've created a makeshift shelter while also scavenging loose resources from the rubble. Lately, that's been their saving grace.
Throughout this adjusting period, Matthew has clearly stepped up in place of Chris. He's been handing out assignments for everyone, Chris containing the bare minimum. It's almost like their original leader is completely broken, unable to be fixed.
Tara resides by the campsite, Matthew walking towards the shelter, hurdling a large pile of sticks. She gazes into the comforting fire, slowly dimming out. The warmth is endearing to her, distracting her from all the painful recollections of that godforsaken hospital.
Matthew glances at Tara, looking to start a well needed conversation while adding to the shelter. They've all been spending most of their days in awkward silence, constantly displaying their sulky demeanors. It's like they've completed changed.
"You okay?" Matthew asks timidly, desperately wanting to end this cruel way of thinking.
"Funny joke," Tara forces out a laugh.
The silence returns, Matthew's face turning red from the embarrassment. All he wants is for everyone to act like their true selves. However, an ambitious goal like that seems unreachable at this point.
"Sorry, I know it's been rather emotional as of late," Matthew begins, not receiving a response.
Tara's once lively and bubbly persona has now vanished. It's disappeared in a blink of an eye. Clearly, that single bullet will live with her for the rest of her life. That careless decision by her own mother has scarred her.
"So, how's the food situation?" Matthew asks, changing the subject.
"We have enough for tonight, but the supply seems to be getting more and more scarce," Tara states informatively, rising from the floor.
They disperse from one another, Tara clearly trying to avoid confrontation. She admires this disheveled group, noticing everyone staring towards a similar location. Stephanie glances over at Chris, watching as he crouches down in front of Jeannie's grave.
He's just staring at it, nothing else. She contemplates on whether or not to speak to him, knowing how close he was with Ryan. Chris is practically family to Stephanie. He would always express his cheerful attitude whenever coming over to spend time with Ryan.
She over time grew more accustomed to having him over. It was like he was her second family. Seeing him in this pained, emotionless state is completely shattering. All she can do is hope that Chris will one day move past this tragedy.
Now that Ryan's gone, Stephanie feels absolutely broken. She needs a hint of motivation to simply get up in the morning. Perhaps, helping Chris through this stressful situation will provide her with a purpose once again.
Ryan would want her to comfort Chris to the best of her abilities. He needs to move on from these horrid losses; it'll reestablish his path to recovery. He needs to keep on living for the ones he's lost.
However, Chris hasn't expressed his emotions ever since that cruel day. His facial expressions have been blank, no tears being shed after she was buried. He merely remains next to her grave, completely motionless.
Every ounce of fight or perseverance in his life has gone to waste. All that remains is sorrow and misery in his body besides his typical serious side. He's lost all sense of his personality. Now, he's a closed off individual that's stuck in this group filled with horrible memories.
In reality, the only person able to get Chris to mutter a single word was Simon. She glances at Simon, noticing how miserable he looks, obtaining limited supplies of food within the rubble. Stephanie turns back around, noticing Jess in front of her.
Jess noticed her elongated stare, causing her to check in. After losing so much people under her watch, she's been looking out for any abnormalities. She can't withstand another death, Ryan's already destroyed her.
"Hey Stephanie, are you alright? I noticed you staring at Chris. If I'm being honest, I'd leave him be just for now. Simon has been informing me about all interactions they have with each other, so please don't fret," Jess says casually, her once giddy attitude completely gone.
Through thick and thin, Jess always had a rather calm, uplifting personality. She would help anyone through any obstacle that comes their way. Seeing a smile appear from her friends is satisfying to her.
This is why she loves the medical profession. If the apocalypse were to have never happened, she would've been a resident at an iconic hospital, helping out all the patients in dire need for medical attention. That was her dream when she was younger.
"It's been hard, but I hope to at least find motivation to keep going. Also, I understand what you mean about Chris. I shouldn't interject after he lost his sister anyways," Stephanie says defeatedly.
Jess thinks quietly for a moment, recalling the somber tone of watching all her friends grow apart from their hopelessness. The only person who seems to be motivated is Matthew; he's truly changed ever since he walked into the sanctuary all those years ago.
She starts to ponder about the inevitable snowstorm, the only thought running through her mind being, Where will we go from here? Once this small campsite grows inhabitable, there'll be no backup plan set in motion.
If they continue their standoffish and sulky ways, it could spell trouble for the group as a whole. They need to discuss a game plan before it's too late. Arguably, this group's close bond was the sole reason why they survived for so long.
Once their bond is taken away, so is their likelihood for survival. Stephanie admires the group, noticing how everyone has been affected by Eleanor's raid in different ways. It's been incredibly challenging to rehabilitate their old selves.
However, she is confident that a hint of motivation will come to light once they find their reason to keep on fighting; to keep on surviving. For now, that shared reason is revenge.
"I wish we could all just get over this, but it just seems hopeless," Jess says emotionally, trying to hide her glassy-eyed expression.
It's at this moment where Stephanie recalls something. This could be the missing factor they need to keep on moving. If they successfully complete this plan, the torture should come to an end.
"Wait, what if we were to invade Eleanor's hideout to finally end this madness?" Stephanie asks energetically.
"I mean, we'd need to ask the others, but we also don't know where her base is exactly," Jess says bluntly.
In Jess's eyes, there's no way we will return to our old selves. Their innocence is completely gone. Her life is filled with reminders of her failures; that's what encompasses her whole being. Ryan's death damaged her to a point beyond repair. There's no need to partake in anything reckless if the group isn't unified yet.
She can't bear to witness another one of her friends mourn a loss. Chris's vulnerable self alongside his paining pleas left a brutal mark on her soul. She can't experience that torment again.
"Thankfully, I know the general direction of her compound. I was there as a hostage a long time ago," Stephanie reveals.
"Do you think that the rest of our allies are in that compound?" Jess asks curiously.
"They have to be. I urge you to tell the others. We need to see what they think about the whole situation," Stephanie says suggestively.
Jess nods in agreement, walking off to make an announcement. This will be the first time they've all gathered around each other again. To think that they all have a chance to see their allies again is surreal. All Jess can do is hope that this will reestablish the group's bond once again.
       She jogs over towards Simon, acting all cheerful as she ponders about the future of this group. All she wants is to see her friends cooperate and thrive under the pressure like they usually do.
       "Hey Simon, I gotta talk to you about something," Jess proclaims energetically.
       "Yeah sure, I'm tired of scavenging for resources anyways," Simon states in an annoyed tone before walking off with Jess.
       For the first time in two weeks, Jess feels motivated to keep on motivated. The loss of Jeannie was a massive setback, but this group is known for persevering through any obstacles imaginable. With Simon's help, this plan can also help Chris reestablish his leader-like personality.
       Meanwhile, Ricky and Skyy are left alone in the rubble, watching Simon wander off with Jess while they scavenge for more supplies. At this point, Skyy looks lifeless. They've only be able to acquire enough rations for one day's worth. It's utterly hopeless to continue this excruciating process.
       Ricky glances over towards Skyy, noticing her limbs wobble from the pure exhaustion. They've been working for hours on end, constantly moving large pieces of debris to find a source of viable food that was scattered from the explosion.
       Every glance at this building serves as a dreadful reminder of what once was. Ricky can still remember the adrenaline rush he felt on that horrid day, helping Jeannie escape from the crumbling sanctuary while mutants trailed shortly behind them.
       It hurts just to think about the aftermath of the whole situation. Watching Chris shed tears over his dead sister changed everyone. No one will ever be the same. However, after Sarah's death, that was inevitable.
       Skyy notices Ricky spacing out, gently placing her hand on his, giving off a warm, comforting smile. They've both been through so much together. She can proudly say that Ricky has become her support system. There's no way she can live in this world without her best friend.
       "Ricky, are you okay? You looked like you were lost in thought," Skyy says worriedly.
       "I-I'm fine! I'm just thinking about that day," Ricky stammers nervously.
       Although Ricky has matured as well as evolved into an experience fighter, in this harsh world, he still portrays this typical innocent side. It's strange to see how he's still moving forward after all the hardships he's endured.
       Skyy understands Ricky's thought process. His way of coping is similar to hers. She can tell that keeping in all his feelings is practically killing him. He wants nothing more than to unleash all his pent up aggression from his fragile body. It feels like he's soulless.
       Survivor's guilt has never reached its peak until now. Knowing that he outlasted his other friends and family is completely tearing him apart. They deserved to live long, happy lives, but that's not the case in this pitiful world.
       The old world filled with joy and anticipation is completely gone. No matter how secure they feel in this world, it'll all come crashing down in the near future, just like the sanctuary.
       "I know how you feel Ricky. It's been really hard to adjust after Ryan and Jeannie's death. However, we need to remain strong; that's how we'll survive," Skyy says reassuringly.
       Ricky gives off a slight smile, continuing to rummage through the debris. Although all seems lost now, they need to remain optimistic. For once they lose all hope, it spells trouble for their future in this world.
       Back with Simon, he starts to enter the woods, looking for Chris. Jeannie's grave was dug somewhere around the outskirts of the surrounding area. This is where Chris has been residing for the past two weeks; it's like he's an outcast.
       Simon thinks about what Jess told him, realizing that they can all get back at Eleanor. Although they just suffered a terrible loss, revenge is what's fueling them to keep on fighting. For Simon, defeating his tyrannical mother is everything. He won't stop at nothing until she's regretted all her past actions.
       He slowly walks toward the grave, already establish a gloomy atmosphere as he proceeds to get lost in thought. Sunlight slowly begins to fade away as the remaining few leaves fall of the trees, it's a sign that winter is coming.
       Although Simon's facing a horrid apocalypse, he's always found the season of winter to be relaxing. This is a rare occurrence for him to be alone with his thoughts in a reserved, quiet location. However, he does contain one concern; that concern is for Chris.
       He finally catches a glimpse of Chris, trying to formulate the right words, all he could think was, How's Chris going to react to Stephanie's plan? He proceeds to move closer to Chris, trying not to invade his privacy.
       Surprisingly, Chris immediately looks over at Simon, showcasing a serious demeanor. It's strange to not see him sulking during this time. He could be trying to hide his true feelings, but Simon knows the different sides of Chris. However, there's one aspect missing.
       His heart sinks once he realizes that Chris's witty, competitive, and energetic personality has faded into thin air. Jeannie's death killed a part of him too. However, it wasn't just Jeannie's death that affected his mental health, Ryan's demise was the origin of his downward spiral.
       Simon recalls the hesitation and fear in Chris's eyes when they left that stairwell. He wanted nothing more than to carry Ryan's lifeless body outside for a proper burial. Perhaps, that would've been the closure he needed.
       Leaving behind his best friend might've set him over the edge. He knew that carrying Ryan's corpse till the very end would've set the group back, but he still wanted to try. Ryan deserved better. This never should've happened to his best friend.
       "Hey Chris! How ya holding up?" Simon states awkwardly, leaving an awkward silence before Chris merely shrugs.
       It's a shame to see one of your close friends concave under the immense trauma they've endured. Simon can't bear to watch Chris's personality breakdown before his very eyes. All he can do is hope for Chris to return to a healthy state.
       "Well, I wanted to talk to you about something if that's fine with you," Simon begins, glancing at Chris hopefully.
       Chris nods, barely showing any emotion. Although he's more responsive than a couple days ago, he's shown nothing but a melancholy expression. It's depressing to see their leader in this sorrowful mind space.
       "Jess informed me about a plan that Stephanie had. I think you'd want to give it a listen," Simon says vaguely, desperately trying to get Chris motivated to at least walk away from this depressing gravesite.
       Chris sighs before rising from the ground, brushing the filth off his pants. It looks like he's taking his sweet time. His original fire and passion to always keep fighting has now depleted. He faces Simon, finally communicating with someone.
       "Alright, I'll be right behind you," Chris states informatively.
       They walk back towards their shelter in silence, Simon being satisfied with this small victory. He finally got Chris to forget about his sister's death for at least a moment. This is the start of the rehabilitation process.
       Not having Chris as a support system is unimaginable for Simon. Chris is all he has left to help him cope with the constant emotional baggage that he encounters throughout life. Their friendship means everything to him.
       However, one aspect does catch Simon's eye. Just at a glance, he could tell how deflated Chris feels just by his facial expression. Unlike before, he's barely showing a hint of tenacity. It's like his life is crumbling with every step he makes.
       They finally arrive at the makeshift shelter, gathering around the bright fire pit. All eyes point to Chris as if they were daggers, surprised to see him anywhere but the gravesite. It's refreshing to see him interacting with everyone.
       "Hey Chris!" Jess says optimistically, trying to start a conversation.
       "Oh, hey Chris! Glad to see ya over here," Ricky states with a broad smile.
       Chris gives off a fake chuckle before setting himself down besides the fire, quickly getting captivated with the comforting warmth. It feels more welcoming rather than glancing at that demeaning grave.
       "So, you guys had a plan?" Chris asks curiously.
       After that question, all the awkwardness suddenly faded. Watching Chris finally leave the past behind him means everything. It already motivates the group to keep on moving through any obstacle that reveals itself.
       "Well, I guess I'll start with saying that it's inevitable that we're gonna have to relocate shortly. Once the weather drops, the shelter is going to become inhabitable," Jess states with concern.
       Skyy glances over at Chris, noticing how invested he is with this speech. It looks like he's finally trying to move past Jeannie's death. The fact that he's considering taking action is already a good start for rebuilding the group.
       "So, I concocted a plan to infiltrate Eleanor's base in order to save your remaining people. I have suspicions that they're at the same compound where I was imprisoned. What do you guys think?" Stephanie interjects, longing for their support with this plan.
       She wants to be personally responsible for the downfall of Eleanor's compound. Not only did she start this whole apocalypse, but she also had a hand in taking away the life of her son. The least she could do is save Chris's family.
       The group looks around at one another, trying to formulate what everyone wants. They never want to resort to fighting, but in this case, it's endangering their people. They'll all need to collectively fight as a unified group at least one more time.
       Matthew is the first to stand up, remembering all the trauma they endured from Eleanor and Laura. They need to abolish this threat from their lives. Once Eleanor's posse is out of the picture, they can finally return to a life of normalcy.
       "I believe that this is the best shot we have. Plus, I'm never leaving my own team behind," Matthew states confidently, earning praise from the others.
       Skyy gazes at Matthew, a wide smile portrayed on her face. Throughout this whole experience, Matthew has managed to grow as a person. He's evolved into a genuine leader who cares deeply for his group. Without his help, they would've never gotten through all these hardships.
       She stands up proudly, accompanied by Ricky and Tara. There's no way Skyy will go down without fighting. Although she's suffered a massive handicap, she's still a survivor, a fighter. She won't stop at nothing until their goal is reached.
       "I'm in. I'll follow you guys anywhere," Skyy says enthusiastically.
       "Same here. Eleanor needs to pay for her actions!" Ricky shouts.
       "My mother has completely changed. I will never forgive her for killing Ryan, and she needs to pay," Tara says sternly before resting back down.
       Matthew notices a fire in Tara's eyes. She's changed from this timid, petrified girl to a prideful woman ready to face her disgrace of a mother face to face. However, this decision could either encourage her or ruin her.
      Simon stands up with his head held high. He's been oppressed by his family for the majority of his life. He won't stop until his justice is finally served. There needs to be a time of peace and unity.
       "My mother has caused worldwide pain and misery. I won't stop until she's begging for forgiveness," Simon states aggressively.
       Jess grows inspired from their words, realizing that this is the most interactive they've been with each other for a long time. For once in her life, she feels prepared to fight on the battlefield for her family.
       "I'm never giving up on my family. I'm with you guys till the end," Jess says reassuringly.
       All eyes peer towards Chris, staring at him longingly since he's the wildcard. His world has gotten turned upside down. There's no telling how much he's changed ever since that brutal day. Finally, he rises, mustering up the courage to speak.
       "I want nothing more than to see Eleanor's head on a platter. I'm in," Chris states in a serious tone.
       They all cheer with enthusiasm, finally getting past this emotionally draining experience. Vengeance is all that's on their mind. If they don't act now, then their kidnapped allies are goners. They need to stop this tyrant as soon as possible.
       Amongst all the excitement however, there's still some skepticism. Jess notices Chris's demeanor, barely smiling even an inch. His personality has completely changed. If he even faces one more moment of grief, it could lead to a reckless decision.
       They all eventually drift off to sleep, mentally prepared for what this journey brings them. It'll be a crucial battle, but they need to save their group members. Life without them isn't a life worth living.
       Morning hits as everyone prepares their packs with as much resources as possible. It's a little slim, but they can scavenge along the way. Perhaps, some time with the mutants will prepare them for what's to come in the near future.
       Matthew and Stephanie remain towards the frontlines while the rest follow their lead. Chris may have changed from Jeannie and Ryan's demise, but all he sees in revenge. All he desires is to see Eleanor's head on a spike.
       "Are you all ready?" Stephanie asks curiously, prepared to lead her newly founded group to save their group members.
       "Ready as we'll ever be," Jess speaks for the rest of the group.
       They share looks with one another, already knowing that they all have each other's backs. There might've been some tension in the past, but they're now an unstoppable force. They've progressed from a group to a family.
       "Let's head out then," Matthew says with a warm smile.
       The all begin to walk away from the sanctuary, leaving all the painful memories behind them. Chris can't help but look back at Jeannie's grave, finally accepting the fact that she's never coming back.
       However, that doesn't mean that he has to stop fighting. Jeannie and Ryan's deaths might've left a huge scar, but he must keep on moving for their sake. He has to make sure that they didn't die in vain.
       They walk further down the road as a family while the snow slowly starts to trickle down. It's oddly beautiful. Seeing the seasons during trying times like these is enough to heighten anyone's mood.
       They continue their walk through the forest as they recall all their past traumas and how they've grown. This might be challenging to face, but at least they have each other. There will be a long road ahead, but they're determined to save their allies. It's time for them to abandon the past and step into the future.