Dead Ahead! (Male Reader Insert)

Chapter 20

The group was busy setting things up, purifying water, tidying the area, and burying the dead Marauders. It was in their best interest to allure the two Military personnel to become allies or be recruited in their community.

Not only were the two capable fighters, but they're a piece in the shitshow of a puzzle that is happening in Lamos, courtesy of the Marauders. It was Milo's plan and Princess's suggestion that the best way to do this is to showcase their community to the newcomers.

It was what ultimately helped them convince a small alliance with the Special Operations soldier and would be the one to drive the deal home. If it didn't, then at least the survivors would have a wonderful time and a night to unwind before it's back to killing zombies and Marauders again.

You were on the side, setting up a water purifier and pouring enough powdered grape juice left over from the last occasion.

You turn the generator on, let the machine whirl into life, and mix the juice evenly before turning it off. You pour yourself a sip and taste it, finding it nice and refreshing... even without ice.

Russel strolled to you after helping bury the Marauders and asked for a sip. You poured a generous amount for him and passed the cup.

Russel: To think this may be the last time we taste something like this...

He smiled bitterly, savoring the drink by sipping little by little, savoring the dying flavor of powdered fruit juice. Silence befalls you two at his remark, but he quickly starts a conversation.

Russel: Are we sure we want to do this festivity thing out here in Lamos? I'm all for boosting morale and stuff like that, but it feels like we're letting ourselves become a target.

Russel: We're not even sure that nutjob will come.

Russel voiced his concern, knowing you'd understand his side and be more open to hearing his opinion than others. You two had been friends for ages, and nothing would get in the way of that, so you nod.

You: I'm scared too, Russel, and yeah, this is a big risk we're taking, flaunting our supplies out here in the open in hopes of the fucking Starman from the roof to come down and join us.

You: But you and me aren't the only ones.

You pointed at the wall of motorcycles on the road where Pepper and Milo stood as lookouts. On the opposite side are Diaz and Norton doing the same thing.

You: They're as on edge as much as you, but we have to take the risk, or we'll be getting nowhere. We took the risk of recruiting Dale despite not knowing him, remember?

You gestured at the old man sitting idly in the corner. Russel laughed and elbowed you.

Russel: You mean you did.

Russel sighed and nodded after, getting your point.

Russel: I guess you're right. It's just... we've been lucky from the beginning up to here. I- ah, I think I'm just being paranoid and shit.

You laughed and patted him on the shoulder.

You: It's nice that you're looking out for us, Russel. And I hope you didn't just jinx our luck by being a fucking downer.

He pushed you away playfully with a laugh.

Russel: Fuck off!

You chuckle at his surprise but are stopped when a sour yet savory smell wafts through the area, catching everyone's attention.