Ella & Vlad at the end

#28 - plans in motion

Wandering into a park near the hospital Ella rests upon a bench.

Observing the moon while deep in thought Ella's future maybe uncertain, she'll still have it better than Ida. Vlad meeting Filomena he'll spend much of his time with her. Despite having Vlad throughout life Ella's done most things solo. If they all manage to survive Ella feels certain to be alone.

If becoming normalized, Ella may be more susceptible to the virus and anything else in the world. Finding someone to be lovers with would be near impossible. The only healthy males she's met lately are Adan and Miles. Adan is way too young even if she waited twenty years. Seeing Lori helping raise those two kids and at the hospital she figures Miles has all anyone can hope for in today's world.

Getting onto acceptance of the situation Ella considers Vladimir's offer to reside together. If others with the Lycanthropy do exist she would be easier with the idea of communal living.

Knowing, if needed, Vladimir will be there reminds her of the many times he has before. Wanting to show Vladimir she's willing to be there for him and supportive of Filomena, Ella rises to begin the trek back to the farm.

On the long walk Ella attempts to anticipate Vladimir's plans of attack and how she can position herself or the wolf to help.

***

Exiting the hospital too late Miles was hoping to catch Ella. He wanted to reiterate what Lori had said and thank her for the heads up on Ida. Also wishing to examine Ella the person Miles wanted ensure Vladimir will try to retake the cows.

With a quiet night Lori is able to take Ida and Adan home to bed. Miles heads off to talk with the main counsel members. Easily finding two a common-in-law couple, Jamal and Mary-Lee.

Miles explains that Ella came in distraught over a breakup. While talking with Ella he finds out Vladimir first found the disease free, dairy cows Hoss' men are bartering with. Telling them Vladimir has killed four men already and is planning a solo assault gets their attention. Though Miles and Jamal aren't keen on violence, Mary-Lee is, calling Manuel to inform him. In charge of the town security Manuel says he'll confer with a few trusted men to get their opinion and make a final decision in the morning. All parties involved do agree if there was one time to stand up this is it. Get rid of the closest nest of human parasites to their town and perhaps get a cow or two out of it.

***

Circling the hilltop mansion Vladmir can't detect any cows. For fuck sakes! They took them all.

Flying into the mansion through one of the shot-open windows he confirms it. All gone.

Hopping about the house he chirps away cursing, "for fuck sakes. There's no way I'm going to let those cows be consumed by those hick ticks."

If he could easily set fire to the place he would; as a signal to Hoss he's coming. Later today I think Filomena and I should go for a little drive in the countryside. Perhaps leave a few things tucked nicely away for later.

Out far and wanting to get back to Filomena's place, Vlad returns. With lots of time to think Vlad hunts his way back, while planning out the next thirty hours. This will be one of those times I'm going to wish Ella was nearby. I'm sure with a night reconnaissance I should be able to take out a dozen guys in a couple hours. All day if I'm so lucky to get to play.

***

Almost back to the farmhouse Ella takes a pause on a bridge. Leaning on the rail she watches the water flow underneath.