It's a Dog Eat Dog World: Act 2

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Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Xavier was amused at the girl's pleas, removing his robe as his laughter grew. "You've been through this before, you know begging only makes the heart grow fonder."

Just then, a loud gunshot was heard. Xavier froze, then pulled away from his midnight treat to grab an old style phone that sat on his bedside table. "What in God's name is going on?" He listened. "Kill him!" He hung up and rushed back to bedside, speeding up his actions. "Looks like your friend has figured out a way in."

Josie's adrenalin rose at the prospects that Matt was actually there to save her. Xavier held down her wrist as he slid his body over hers, leaning over her to claim her with a kiss. She spat in his face.

"Ah, they did say you were a fighter. So then, let's fight!" The leader's fist slammed her across the face.

Josie didn't scream - but laughed hysterically through the pain. "Why don't...you pick on someone...your own size," she hissed.

Just then, the door was flung open and Matt rushed in. Xavier gasped in disbelief that he's found the secret chamber. Moving away from the bed, trying to find anything to protect himself, he was immediately tackled to the ground and quickly beaten. When the barrel of the rifle was between his eyes, the leader stopped fighting and raised his hands in defeat.

"You think killing me's going to solve your problems?" Xavier began. "You pull that trigger, and I'll haunt you in my grave. I'm more powerful than you'll ever know, and your name will be marked in all the territories. So, go ahead - pull it!"
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Matt's finger terembled on the trigger but not because he was scared it was because he was in thought. He looked at the man and laughed " You haunt me? i have my own demons so i dont give a damn and i would imagine what the devil has instore for you when he sees you in hell". He pulled the trigger and shot the man in the stomach and then the chest.

Looking at Joise he sighed in relif that she was okay and he gave her the robe to put on. He just looked at her and felt even more mad at the fact that thay had hurt her. He walked over to her slowly and then hugged her gently. " Were going to head back to Carol and Harrison's house okay ". He picked her up and carried her in his arms handing Harris the rifle.

Once they made it outside he placed Josie in the side car and harrison climed on back on the bike. They drove back to the house where Carol was sitting on the porch. Her face seemed to light up at the sight of Harrison and he smiled brightly as tears fell from her eyes. He stopped the bike and then climed off. " We need to stay another night so i can tend to Josie's wounds". Carol nodded and said they could have the room upstairs if they wanted.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Josie cried in Matt's arms, lost the words that could describe how happy she was to see him. She was just - so close... a nightmare, just one big nightmare.

She passed out in the side car on the way back to Carol's home, and didn't realize she was being carried inside, or there was another person in the mist. All she knew at the moment was aches, pains, a slowly growing fever, and a deeper fear that seemed to have snuffed out her toughness.

She thought she could handle anything that came her way... Well, she was able to escape the Trades the first time... But, what in the hell happened to her this time? Why wasn't she able to figure a way out? It scared her so much to know that she was incapable of handling any bad situation, that she would have to rely on someone else. If Matt wasn't there... what then?

Her connection to things kept fading in and out... but she knew Matt was by her side.



Carol grabbed anything and everything she could think of that would help Matt tend to Josie. Then, she went upstairs in the attic and pulled out a box of clothes that their daughter had. She laid some pieces out for her for later. Harrison, on the other hand, was packing, pulling out weapons and gear. He knew him and his wife wasn't safe anymore. The church would look for them. They all had to leave as soon as the girl was well enough. Carol left to help her husband pack up their truck and prepared the motorcycle for the young couple. Then, they waited in the house - watching for any intruders.

(I've got to head to bed. See ya tomorrow! :) )
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Matthew layed Josie on the bed and then opened the box that had medical wipes, swabs, bandades,ect. he opened her robe slowly and tended to the cut on her chin and then her shoulder, legs and finally her back. He was suprised she didn't wake up during the treatment. he wrapped the guaze on her back and shoulder.

He layed on the bed next to her and watched her sleep, making sure everything was okay. It was a rough day and he didn't feel like going through alot more but he knew it would happen. H eventually grew tired and fell asleep with Josie close to him.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

It was a hard night's rest, but it wavered in a warm sea of comfort and protection. Josie feared nightmares, but they seem to begin - only to fade into her subconscious.

Her eyes fluttered and she squirmed slightly from the loud announcement of pain her legs began. The feeling was returning, so every time she wiggled a toe it shot thousands of needles through her whole leg. She whence against the onslaught, but didn't make a peep. She didn't want to wake up Matt who she found sleeping beside her.

Her sea of comfort and protection - she was wrapped within it, snugged up close. He must of worried about her all that time... decided to keep a close watch over her... to push away her nightmares.

Josie was - relieved, and overwhelmed. Watching him sleep, finding that he'd found comfort away from his nightmares too... it was an endearing moment between them. What was changing? She could feel a flutter in her gut, but really didn't know what it could mean, except that she wanted to move in closer to him.

Tucking her head underneath his chin, she just laid there and forgot about everything that had happened - in her past, and in their present. She believed that the only person she could trust was Matt, the only person on this planet that would never do her harm, or put her in harms way. He truly cared for her, and... so did she.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Matthew's body was sore but as soon as he closed his eyes he felt a whole lot better. His mind was relaxed and it felt like he was at peace. He opened his eyes slowly and looked to see that Josie was cuddled close to him sleeping soundly. He smiled and then stroked her hair softly not wanting to wake her up, he was comfortable but he knew he had to soon. He slowly slid out from under her and then headed into the bathroom and took a shower. He put on his boxers and then loooked into the mirror and shaved.

He put on some pants but had a hard time finding his shirt. walking downstairs he saw that Harrison was wide awake while Carol was sleep. " Hey we'll be heading out today, thanks for letting us stay here. Harrison laughed and then smiled. " Young man i am truly greatful for what you have done to me, helping my wife, you two dont need to thank us..thank you". Matt nodded and then walked upstairs and looked for his shirt.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Josie kept falling in and out of consciousness, but eventually her hunger stood out stronger than her pains. She woke up, finding herself alone. Taking a moment to observe herself, she found her body to be well cared for, but scared with bruises. Her old whip wounds seem to blend with her new battle scars. The loss of beauty and innocence of life was the price she had to pay for survival, she figured.

Taking her time, she attempted to pull herself up with one arm, pushing slowly to sit higher against the backboard of the bed. But, her damaged ribs crack and she shouted in pain, dropping herself back on the bed in anger. This was hopeless... she couldn't even sit up herself!! How in the world were they going to get out of this place if she couldn't move? She felt like dead weight, even though the feeling was back in her legs - uncomfortably; she was able to move them at least. But, she knew she couldn't stand up now...

"They're going to get us again," she whispered to herself, "All because of my stupid trust... damnit!" her fist pounded the side of the bed. She had to do something....they needed to get out of there. Matt's done enough for her already... She couldn't do anything for him now, and there's no telling how long it will take until she can...

Fucking hopeless.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

When matt headed upstairs he saw Josie was awake and watched as she strugled to move and then slumped again in pain. He put on his shirt and then walked over to her and looked at her concerned. " What's wrong? what hurts you?". He looked over her body seeing the cuts old and new but he tended to them, he didn't know what was hurting her but judging from her body it was her sides. He Called Carol upstairs and she arrived in the room. " Is something wrong?. Matt nodded " Yes she's in alot of pain can you see whats wrong are you good with medical?. Carol nodded " Well yes i am i will check and see whats wrong you just head downstairs and relax, get some food to take on the road with you".

Matthew nodded and then headed downstairs to see Harrison polishing the rifle and ten he motioned for him to home over. " Hey i want to give you this, it will help alot along the way". He handed him the gun and then the box of ammo. " Theres also some snaks in that box for you guys to eat". Matt hugged the man and thanked him.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

"Your ribs are cracked, that's why they make that awful sound when you move." Carol explained to Josie as she continued to tightly wrap a large Ace bandage around her chest right under her breasts. "Keep this on at all times. Take it off when you bath, and make sure Matt re-wraps it tight. It will keep your ribs from moving and help them heal. You'll be able to move more, but give yourself time so you can heal."

Josie just listened to her, sitting silently without a word. She was still upset that the woman deceived her, but again, being an understanding person, she knew what the woman was up against. After Carol explained and apologized to her, Josie forgave her, but still was reluctant to trust her again.

Carol knew this, but kept her mouth shut. She deserved it anyway. "I left you some new clothes, a few pieces my daughter had before she passed. They're all yours; I've already taken the liberty of packing them on your bike for you, as well as a few other things young ladies like to have."

Carol helped her clean up and dress in a light warm yellow peasant blouse and blue jeans. She escorted her downstairs, supporting her by wrapping her arm around her neck.

"She's tightly bandaged up. She'll be able to travel well now." Carol announced to the men downstairs. "I've packed the side car with pillows and an extra blanket for your comfort," she smiled at Jodie, and she couldn't do nothing but smile back. Carol was trying...she should as well.

"Thank you, Carol," she tightened her arm that was around the woman's shoulders - a side hug, at least. And Carol returned it happily.

"You don't have to, but I thank you both."
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

When Carol said that Josie was ready he looked at her and then smiled, he turnned his attention back twords Harrison and gave him a firm handshake before placing the rifle over his shoulders and he had but the bok in his bag. " It has been nice meeting you and mabey one day me right run into you again". He stood from the couch and walked over to JOsie taking her hand in his and walking out the house.

Once he helped her inside the side car he placed his bag in there as well. " Theres some snaks if you hungry". Matt climbed on the dike and then waved ar Carol and Harrison one last time. " So where are we heading? and you'll have to give me some directions on how to get there".
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

"To the Yellows," Josie whispered, feeling a bit light-winded after wobbling to the bike. "There's...a map under the seat."

The side car's seat was covered in pillows, she was in a very comfortable cocoon and threatening to fall asleep again, but she held out to see them off.

((I'm gone again!))
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Matthew found the map under the seat and followed the directions to the Yellows. It was sill early so he knew they would make it before evening. As he drove he looked around to see empty cars, people walking into buildings and fights. Shaking his head he continued to drive the bike to the destination. Once there he stopped the bike and then woke Josie who was sleep. " Hey were here now were do we go from here?".
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Josie woke up to the sound of Matt's voice. The bike had stopped, confirming that they were in Yellows. She pulled herself up higher in the car to look around. A grunt crossed her face and the odd smells of the Circle A invaded her nose.

"This is Circle A of the Yellows; the slums. We need to enter Circle C, Center of the Yellows. It's like the capital. Their headquarters are there...and hopefully someone can help us fine Ace."

The sounds of excitement could be heard in her voice regardless of how tired she felt. It's been a long time since she's been to Circle C of the Yellows. The place was like a blast from the past, if you could believe that. Not from her past, no. But, the nation's past. Even though it's been several years since the governmental crash, and all the other Circles in this city territory show minor to major visible changes due to it.

Circle A is the residential area reserved for the stragglers - the lowest on the totem pole, They are travelers who come for Yellows' aid and support. it is rough and a reminder of what has happened to the moral of the nation.

Circle B are for those who have become new residence of the Yellows. They are the middle man, the workforce of the territory. They work together to help run the Yellows and assist those in need.

Circle C is the most beautiful part of the entire territory. A once well known city, it still looks and runs like nothing has ever happened. This high level of the totem looks rich compared to the other two Circles, even though they are struggling just as hard as everyone else. Children are not fighting for their next meal here, but going to school and learning how to work together for a collaborative gain. People have jobs that have meaning to the overall welfare of the entire populace. Their goal - for all of the Circles to live in happiness, and to save others who are in need. It was like - paradise in hell. Although, life was better there, all around were signs of what was beyond their boarders.

Josie pointed towards the falling sunset highlighting the city's horizon. "Look up there. The tallest tower left in the city. That's the Informants. We need to go there."

She was riding on hope here. Would Ace remember her? And above all, will he be able to help them? Josie was beginning to grow hungry, and her pains were trying to damper her happy energy about being in such an electrifying city. Stronger medication was what she craved...and real, hearty food for once. Another night in a warm, comfy bed...and another shower! Oh yea, she wanted to enjoy everything she could while there, knowing it wasn't going to last.


((I'm on for a little while, watching The Hunger Games. Will be back later tonight...hopefully.))
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Matthew looked around, it looked like the slums, almost like were he used to live but it was that bad, it was more or less inbetween middle and lower class. When Josie pointed to where they needed to head, he looked at the tallest tower. Starting the engine again he started on heading over to circle C. As he drove he took the time to look at the people and the bouldings, and some old and tattered shops.

It was sunset when they arived at circle C. The place was amazing, the whole feeling of being in the area was great, it looked like the rich part of things. He drove until he reached the tower and then he stopped the bike. Climbing off he stood and looked up at it amazed. " Hey were here so do we walk inside and ask for ace or what?". He walked over to the side car and helped Joise out.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

"That's the only thing I can think of," Josie answered as she took Matt's assistance and stood on her feet. "They're here to help those in need. That's what they say. Let's see if it's true." She let him lead her inside and they walked to the front desk.

"Hello, welcome to the ISH. May I help you?"

"Yes, I'm looking for an old friend of mine. His name is Ace... Unfortunately, I don't know his last name."

The woman smiled, "That's because he doesn't have one." She picked up the phone and dialed a number. "Yes, you have two guest...um, your names?"

"Oh, this is my friend, Matthew Smith, and I'm Jocelyn Modine, but he would remember me as Jo - an old two-timer from The Trades."

The woman repeated her words and hung up. "He's heading down right now." She picked up the phone again, "I'm also sending a wheelchair for you, dear. Do you two wish for something to eat or drink? I'll have a meal sent up to his office for you, if you like."

The service was amazing! Josie's eyes widened, which only made her bruised face twinge a bit. She looked up at Matt and giggled, "It's like first-class service, or something."

The woman chuckled as well, "Dear, it is, and you two deserve it after what you've obviously been through."

Josie asked for a bottle of water. When the wheelchair came, she sat in the seat with a big sigh. Suddenly, everything seem just right, like all of their nightmares would be over, all of their questions - answered. Everything would be fine.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Once they were inside he looked around the building. It was well put together, the one thing that was on his mind now was his brother but he knew that stressing over the situation wasn't going to make it better. When the lady offered food and water he laughed and looked at Josie. " Yeah your right". He asked for a bottle of water and then leaned against the wall and drank down the cold water. Matt sighed in relif and then looked at Joise before quickly looking down at the floor.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

As they waited comfortably, Josie noticed how Matt was quiet all of the sudden. She'd figured he would be as thrilled as she was about reaching the Yellows. Maybe it was a mixed emotions thing, thrilled to be there but fearful about what they may find. The look on his face was thoughtful, and she wanted to see him actually smile but knew the things that were stirring in his heart. She gave him a bit of space.

The woman called to them, saying that Ace was busy at the moment, so he's cleared us to head upstairs. A gentleman dressed in a very nice suit came to escort them to the elevator. They road all the way up to the top floor before the man showed them to the penthouse office suite, opening the door for them to walk through.

The suite was amazing! Full wall window overlooking the entire Circle, leather seats, a wide-screen TV...a full kitchen; how in the world were they able to find these things in working condition? Really, they looked brand new and such, it just blew Josie's mind.

"Jo? Is that really you?"

A tall, lanky man with bushy dirty blond hair and big, child-like eyes rushed down a small set of steps towards them. Josie gasped and then laughed, "You still remember me!" Ace leaned down to give her a huge hug, which only caused Josie to cry out a bit, warning him as quickly as she could.

"Oh....ohohoh, I'm so sorry, I'm just so happy to see you again> But, I can clearly see that, once again, you've gotten yourself into something."

She nodded her head, "Nah, I've got this. We're here for other reasons." She turned to acknowledge the man beside her, "This is my friend Matt Smith. We need some help to find his younger brother, Danny."

Ace extended a hand to shake Matt's, and nodded to what Josie said, "You know it's a far-fetch thing to do; finding a child in a haystack."

"I know, but you've uncovered hundreds of them... and we really need your help. We've been through so much...and the Haven's probably breathing down our throats..."

"What!?" Ace shook his head and threw his arms up to stop her before she began to ramble. "Why were you at the Haven, of all places?"

Josie had that ignorant feeling again, "Um, it's a long story...sort of."

Ace nodded, "Fine, I'm always up for a good, long story." He motioned for them to follow him. "Look, this place is my business and my home. I live here - and have plenty of space. I know you both could use some solid medical attention and a lot of tender care. So, Stay here with me and we'll get through your long story. I haven't had anyone escape from the Haven - alive. Your information will definitely help us there. And once I receive all the information you have on your baby brother, I'll have my team begin the search."

Josie didn't hear anything else after "escape from the Haven - alive". "Seriously? What do you mean by the Haven. '

Ace had signaled for an assistant, given them directions to bring their things up and park their bike. "The Haven - they're protected by the military, you know. But, they behave like a large Pit Territory. They have their men everywhere - they're almost as covert as we are here. If someone leaves the Haven, they're found dead - usually the next day."

That's didn't settle well with Josie at all.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Matthew was in deep thought when the woman told him that they could head upstairs. When the man came to escort them upstairs he was shocked, they all looked well dressed and nice. He followed Josie and the man in the elevator and kept his mouth shut and figited with his hands as they made there way up.

When the man show them the penthouse he was amazed, looking around at all the details and the nice things in the room he was supprised his mouth wasn't open in shock. Matt watched as the man hugged Josie and then he shook his hand. At the coversation of haven and the fact that people who left never left alive he was shocked.

When Ace discussed that the territory was overrun and protected by the goverment and that they had alot of men. Thw first thing that came to his mind was Harrison and his wife, he wondered if tey made it out alive of died. He figited and then reached in his pocket and pulled out a picture of his brother and handed it to Ace.
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Josie saw how anxious Matt was, and wasn't surprised when he pulled his brother's picture out with no words.

Ace took the picture and smiled, "So this is Danny? He's looks like a sharp young man; favors you a lot, Matt." He nodded to them to sit at the dining room table with him, moving a chair to accommodate Josie's wheelchair. He pulled out an old mini-tape recorder and pressed start.

Well, no iPod or iPad; resorting to old school technology? In a place like this, Josie wondered how much of the technology they've taken for granted all these years were still in working order today. Obviously, Apple died down with several other major companies.

"So, tell me everything you can recall about Danny, and what happened to him? The more information I can record, the more I have to search for him."

Josie started to worry as she sat beside Matt, wondering was he able to start this process now, or too exhausted. It's been a very long night for them both, but she had plenty of chances to rest. He's been driving all day.




((Hey, I'm heading to bed. I just took some sinus meds, and they are knocking me out. So, tomorrow, if you're here, I'll be posting away. Later.))
 
Re: It's a Dog Eat Dog World

Matthew nodded when Ace said his brother resembled him and then he dind't speak until they sat down at the dining room table. He closed his eyes momentarilly when Ace asked him to tell him about Danny. He sighed " Well the last time i saw him was a few weeks ago.. he's 7 and he was wearing a red varsity jacket and jeans with a action figured backpack. We were in the slums in the apartment when some guys came in and tried to rob us... i told him to run and when i finially got out the building i looked for fim but i couldn't find him". He looked away and tapped his hands on the table.
 
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