Chapter 8: The First Council
Morning light filtered through the damaged windows of the network center, laying long shadows across the survivors' exhausted faces. Ava gathered with the little group they'd managed to bring together, observing as everyone settled into a difficult circle within the main hall. Lucas stood on the other side, his face fixed in a familiar, determined attitude. The air became thick with tension; everyone could feel it, like a storm brewing on the horizon.
They'd made it through the night, but Ava realized that survival required more than barriers and rationed water. They wished for organization, clear roles, and a plan that went beyond the next few days. But first, they'd have to decide something much more important: how they'd lead.
Lucas moved around the room, his gaze fixed on everyone. "We need shape," he said, his voice firm yet serene. "A chain of command and a defined set of guidelines. Without order, we'll lose controland then we'll lose people."
Several heads nodded in accord. People were afraid, clutching to anything offered equilibrium. Ava may be drawn to Lucas' method, but she knows it won't be enough. In a tragedy like this, too much pressure could be as dangerous as anarchy.
She waited a beat, letting his words sink before moving forward. "Shape has its vicinity," she continued, her voice steady. "But so does flexibility. We have no idea where we are going to stand. Inflexible policies will not keep us alive if things continue to change like way. We need adaptability, not simply commands."
Lucas focused on her, his expression hardening. "Ava, structure is what keeps people alive. "I've seen what happens without it."
She did not recoil. "And I've seen how flexibility keeps humanity alive even when things go wrong. "We need each other, Lucas."
The institution whispered, looked about, confused. Elena, seated cross-legged near the circle's threshold, leaned forward, her eyes serious. "Maybe we can combine both techniques. Lucas, your experience is valuable," she said, choosing her words carefully. "And, Ava, your survival expertise has been invaluable. We don't want to prefer one way over another. "We will paint together."
Lucas crossed his arms, frustration visible in his gaze. "I don't need to hazard human beings's lives by way of being 'flexible' about discipline or chain of command."
Ava took a breath, her tone still calm but forceful. "And I don't want individuals to fall because they're sure they're following regulations that don't apply to the scenario. We're not squaddies, Lucas. People here want to feel like they're a part of it, rather than just receiving instructions.
The silence that followed became dense, filled with clashing views. Elena's voice pierced through it, consistent and courteous. "How about this: we'll define core roles and tasks while leaving opportunity for variation. We focus on teamwork and communication. Lucas, you supervise security and protection measures, but give Ava the flexibility to organize resources and survival training. Let's use everyone's strengths."
Lucas' expression softened, but he kept his fingers crossed and gave a short nod. "All right," he said. "However, I need a clear line of protection. If things go worse, we'll need to make quick judgments. I'm not going to do anything unless I consult everyone."
Ava nodded, deciding not to press any furtherfor now. "great. Let us strive in your manner. But I'm keeping our exercises flexible. Humans have abilities that extend beyond easy positions."
The tension inside the room eased slightly as Lucas and Ava stepped back, but it lingered below the floor, a subtle reminder of how delicate their partnership had become.
Simply when they went on to various topicsrations, rotations for delivery runsElena's voice lowered, appearing nervous but resolute. "There's something else we shouldn't forget," she added, raising her hand. "Communications."
Ava and Lucas both looked at her with amazement.
Elena persevered, alternating her eyes between them. "If we're going to rebuild any sort of existence here, we need facts. I believe I will get us lower back on track, at least somewhat. The emergency radio gadget does have some power, but it is insufficient. We'd like a bigger signalmaybe even a generator."
Lucas scowled, his mind already focused on the logistics. "The threat is high. We're attracting attention to ourselves.
"However, without it, we're flying blind," Ava countered, feeling a twinge of want at Elena's suggestion. "Knowing what's going on outside should mean the difference between life and death. If there are any survivors available, we need to find them."
Elena nodded, endorsed by Ava's guide. "We'd only need a system from the adjoining commercial block. If we have control over that, I can set it up right here. We'll need at least one experienced person to make it work."
Lucas' expression changed to cautious. "That place is too uncovered. "If there's any chance available..."
"It's a threat," Ava conceded. "However, it is a calculated one. And if anyone can get in and out swiftly, it's us.
He considered it, and the resistance steadily faded from his expression. "high-quality. But we proceed cautiously. "We won't pay for mistakes."
With the first steps of a strategy in place, the organization began to debate what they wanted for the day trip. Everyone felt more safe now, with the initial confrontation between Ava and Lucas fading as they focused on what they could do together. The resources were rationed, roles were allocated, and a loose agenda was developed. Lucas planned a guard rotation, while Ava produced a list of survival essentials they'd need to gather.
As the assembly concluded, the survivors dispersed, each returning to their responsibilities. Ava was organizing materials in the back room when she observed Lucas approaching with a more open attitude than usual.
"Not horrific lower back there," he murmured, leaning against the wall. "Didn't assume you'd conform to this complete council idea."
Ava shrugged, a slight smile on her lips. "I did not do both. But people require a voice, Lucas. "Mostly now."
He nodded, looking at the elements she had arranged. "You are correct about this. Keep things together. "I recognize that I am no longer the best to work with."
Ava stood up, astounded by his honesty. "This is not easy for anyone. Regardless, you know your stuff. I can appreciate that.
A glimmer of understanding went between them, a shared appreciation for their distinctions and the problems they faced. For the first time, Ava felt like they might be able to work together, not only for survival, but to build something stronger.
Their calm second was shattered by a loud crash from outside. They froze, staring at one other before sprinting toward the sounds, their instincts taking over. They pushed through the entrances to find a throng of surprising faces on the opposite side of the barricade, their expressions demanding and scared.
One person moved forward, his face creased with tiredness. "Please," he called out, his voice raspy. "We are only searching for shelter. We observed your lighting. We do not recommend any damage."
Ava's heart beat, and her gaze darted to Lucas. He scanned the assemblage, his gaze sharpening, and she or he would desire to see the war in his eyes. They couldn't turn these people away, but inviting them in had its own risks.
"Allow them to in," she said quietly, keeping a close eye on him.
Lucas pondered for a second before nodding, signaling the guards to clear the barricade. The rookies entered, their faces filled with peace and thankfulness. Ava and Lucas led them to a nook in the hall and handed them drinks and a few blankets.
"We'll do what we can for you," Lucas said, his tone measured. "but we want to understand what you've seen obtainable."
The individual nodded, his countenance stern. "It's no longer accurate," he said quietly. "Roads are blocked, yet fires are still blazing. We barely made it past the final block before we discovered you. The majority either hides or... He trailed off, his eyes falling.
"Or what?" Ava pressed, feeling a calming sensation settle over her.
The individual's eyes met hers, haunted. "Or they've...grown to be. Something is happening to the people. Some individuals exhibit unusual behavior, like possession. It is no longer safe to obtain.
A chill swept through the institution as the gravity of his words struck in. Ava felt her tummy twist, which confirmed her greatest fears. There was something grim about the paintings in the international beyond the community center, something that went beyond natural disasters.
Lucas' expression stiffened. "We will do everything we can to defend everyone here. However, you must adhere to our regulations, keep an eye out, and report anything unusual.
The novices nodded, grateful yet suspicious. Ava watched them, her thoughts racing. If what they said was correct, the stakes would have been higher than she had anticipated.
As they settled the new arrivals, Ava yanked Lucas apart. "We want to plan for more than just survival," she mumbled. "If human beings are changing…we're dealing with a unique sort of danger."
Lucas' face was clouded, but his voice became steady. "Then we prepare for it. "Whatever it takes."
They had a determined look on their faces, as if the weight of their responsibilities was weighing down on them. The small spark of cooperation between them fe
lt fragile, but they had no choicethey would confront the unknown together, or not at all.