#zombie!jack

Fic Request:  “If you're doing septic ego fics may I ask for a rob and Angeliceye romantic poly where the s/o is always complaining about their job and both would love to not let you go but one day rob decides to go and 'save' you from that 'terrible' place and Angeliceye is trying Find and stop him xx”

“I swear this job will be the end of me.” 

“After today, I just don’t have the energy to do anything. Sorry, Robbie. Maybe when I feel more alive.” 

“Don’t worry, I promise I’ll come back. This job is life-sucking, but not enough to kill me...yet.” 

Robbie was horrified. Why wasn’t Angel doing anything to help you!  You were in danger! You were in a bad, bad place. You needed rescuing. 

“Robbie, it’s ok. I promise you, that they aren’t in danger.” Angel said. Attempting to calm down the man in front of him.  Eyes swirling with their misty grey, Robbie balled up his fists and flexed his jaw. 

“No... (Y/N) is in d-danger.” 

The strength in Robbie’s voice was more then enough to start flashing red warning signals in Angel’s head.  Robbie drew strength from his anger. His hunger especially. But Robbie had eaten with you at breakfast before you left. Meaning Robbie was really worked up about this. Angel raised his hands slowly, stepping close to Robbie. Enough to allow his wings to brush against the zombie’s arm. The pale green feathers shimmered as a sense of warmth passed through Robbie.  His breathing slowed a little, and Angel hushed his growls. 

“I promise Robbie, they are not in danger. I’ve met their work manager. They’re really nice. It’s just an exhausting work place.” Angel continued to ease closer till  his wing has enclosed around Robbie. His arms holding Robbie close as the zombie continued to whimper and hiss. “I love them. I do, and sometimes I wish I could support both of you so they don’t need to work. But they have too. They’ll be back in a few hours. Ok? (Y/N) will be home soon.” 

Robbie turned his head to nuzzle into the feathers. The grey in his gaze turning softer in colour, till Angel could see the tell-tale sign of his pupil showing through.  “Sssssorry...” Robbie mumbled. His tongue catching on his teeth at the start of the word. 

Angel ruffled his hair and gave Robbie a squeeze around the shoulders. “It’s ok, bud. I worry for them too. When they come home, I’m sure (y/n) will love some cuddle time. Ok?” 

Robbie nodded and Angel smiled with relief. The last thing he needed was Robbie Turning and hunting after you. 

You received a... rather worrying text from Angel later in the day.  You excused yourself from your coworkers at lunch and decided to give Angel a call.  His pitched voice upon greeting you caused another uncertain stir in your stomach. Something was definitely wrong. 

“Can you put Robbie on?” You asked, in your sweetest, but also slightly stern tone.  Angel knew that voice. There wasn’t much he could hide from you. And Robbie would tell you everything.... if he was here. 

“R-Robbie is napping now. He’s, uh, h-he wore himself out a little while ago. He wanted to go after you and-” 

“Angel, what happened?” You cut him off with a sharp use of his name. And Angel nibbled on the inside of his lip.  He was already outside, searching every nook and cranny for Robbie when you had called. He wanted to get him home before you finished work. Only, it would have been fine if he didn’t accidentally send you a text that was meant for Marvin.  Angel was just happy that it only had “Could you send Jackie on a search and rescue mission? Call me when you can.” 

“Nothing happened, dear. I assure you. It’s just... uh... Anti was in a little trouble and he needs my help.” Angel was not good at lying. And lying to you made it twice as difficult. 

You tapped the back of your phone in thought. Worry and nervousness clawing at your mind.  “I’m gonna come home early. To look after Robbie if you need to leave-”

“No, no, no, no!” Angel started to panic. This was the opposite of what he needed you to do. “Um.. Dark is bringing Choco over to babysit Robbie.” 

“You messaged Dark to ask him to babysit?” You asked. The disbelief obvious in your expression and voice. “You are terrified of Dark.” 

“I know, but I didn’t want to bring you away from work. And I know how worried you would be if- OH SUGAR!” 

“What! Angel?” You almost dropped your phone when Angel cried out. You listened closely. Trying to hear whatever was happening on the other end.  But Angel had accidentally dropped his phone in his haste to move.  Robbie had spotted Angel across the road, just about to exit between two houses, before spinning on his heel and sprinting away.  Angel gave chase. Not willingly to lose a half-minded zombie by picking up his phone again. 

Robbie threw trashcans in his wake, his stumbled gait making it difficult to do both actions at once. And before he knew it, Angel had grabbed his arm and yanked him to a stop.  A sickening tear noise follows the disgruntled growl from Robbie. And the Zombie falls to knees with the sudden stop. His gaze turning up to Angel with a miserable stare. 

“Just... let me... help them...” Robbie whimpers. His eyes swimming as tears started to fall from his eyes as Angel stared at the limb in his hand.  Angel sighed and crouched beside Robbie. Laying the arm next to him and spreading out his wings to surround Robbie. 

“Robbie, going into (y/n)’s workplace isn’t going to solve anything. What they need is support. From us. Every-time they come home, we need to be there to turn their bad days around. Storming headlong into that place will make things worse.” Angel gently pulled Robbie into his arms. Allowing him to curl against his chest and hug him tightly. 

“But.... it won’t get... better...” Robbie murmured. Sniffling as he wiped away the tears that started to fall.  Angel nodded, using his shirt to dab at Robbie’s eyes. 

“Maybe. But maybe it’ll get better too. (Y/N) is strong. They’re smart too. They’ll get a better job. They won’t be stuck there for the rest of their life. All we have to do, is make sure we’re there to support them.”  Robbie sniffed once more before nodding. Reaching down for his arm, he allowed Angel to help him stand and begin guiding him home.

“Can I cuddle.... (y/n) when... they ge-et home?” Robbie asked. Looking exhausted the more they walked.  Angel took more of his weight of his feet. He knew how much Turning takes out of his little buddy. 

“Sure thing, Rob. I’m sure they would love too.” 

“Oh my God! Robbie what happened?” You all but sprinted towards Robbie as you came home. Throwing yourself at him, hugging him close and inspecting the half attached limb that was being held by stitches.  You glared at Angel as he came back with bandages and oitment. He couldn’t meet your gaze. 

“I’m sorry for lying to you. I didn’t want to worry you.” Angel said. Not at all expecting you to forgive him. 

“You should have told me! Oh dear, Robbie does it hurt? Are you ok?” You took the supplies from Angel and sat beside Robbie to begin slathering his injury with the ointments. Robbie however, was grinning broadly and his eyes were wide with joy. 

“You’re... h-home.” He slurred. Leaning close to press a kiss to your cheek. One you tried very hard to not let cool down your anger. “I’m.. not hurt.... it tickles.” 

You grumbled about Robbie’s bad sense of humour as you started to wrap the wound. Angel stood to the side. His wings tucked tightly against his back. Guilt pricking at his chest as you glared at him again.  But you couldn’t stay mad at Angel for long. Nor hold it against him. Angel only did what he thought was right. 

“Next time something like this happens, tell me right away. I’d worry more if I came home and found either of you gone.” You gave Robbie a swift kiss to the tip of his nose as you finished bandaging him. “And you, what on earth were you doing to have this done, hmm?” 

Robbie grin sheepishly and glanced at Angel. His mouth opening to say something, before shaking his head and shrugging his good shoulder.  “I saw...a c-cat.” Robbie giggled.  Angel clamped his lips shut to stop himself from laughing at your expression. 

“You saw... a cat?” You didn’t know if you’d believe it or not. Robbie would want to pet the cat but would that warrant Angel to grab him and accidentally tear off his arm? 

“It was quite pretty.” Angel agreed. Chuckling softly as he shrugged. “I lost him for a few seconds and panicked. I’m sorry I worried you.” 

You sighed and stood. Giving Robbie another kiss to the tip of his nose before turning to Angel. Crossing your arms and giving him a stern gaze.  “I don’t believe either of you, but I have no evidence otherwise. Be sure it doesn’t happen again, ok?” 

y’all i might just be in love with this new ego robbie the zombie here

Fic Request: 

“How about a fic where zombie Robbie finds nb reader, bc u smell nice he later reveals, walking ur dog and he hugs u u can barely scream bc his body pressed against u. He gets scared but it tickles and he holds u closer when Anti knocks u out. The septics freak bc "we told you to find rob not kidnap someone" but u+ur dog are treated nicely by the Septics who only keep u to make sure Anti+rob didn't hurt u, complimenting your dog that chase defo plays with and its the start of Robs first romance”

“What the hell do you mean ‘they can’t stay’? You do realise I had to knock them across the head, right? We let them go, they’re gonna start a riot somewhere.”

It was the warmth of a familiar furry body that began to stir you from the heavy sleep. The scratchy voice further stirring you from the black. The same voice you heard before something heavy struck the back of your head. 

“No! They....stay.... pup too.” Another voice spoke. It was familiar too. The scent of heavy cologne tickled your nose. The memory of a shambled walk. A violet head of hair and the sensation of being crushed by his arms. 

A hug.... one you don’t remember asking for. 

“Robbie, the dog and your new friend cannot stay.” A softer voice spoke up. Closer to you. Like they were sitting directly beside you. “We need to get them somewhere else. A hospital. O-Or a hotel.” 

“Zat vould be a mistake. Vhat if they remember Anti? Ve cannot risk letting them go. Not until ve know zey aren’t a threat to us.” 

Their words were swirling in your mind. They all sounded so similar you were sure it was just one person speaking. 

You groaned and you felt something cool press against your head. It was damp, providing a sense of ease to the discomfort behind your skull. 

The bed dipped and a wet nose prodded your cheek, followed by a whimper as the warm body moved closer to snuggle into you. 

Silence settled for a few heart-beats and you could feel the burning sensation of multiple gazes on you. 

You were beginning to worry now. 

“Friend...scared.” The slurred voice mumbled. “P-Pulse...faster.” 

“Zen they are avake.” The more heavily accented man hissed. “Ve need to decide now.” 

“No!” The damp cloth fell away as you felt the world shift. Cold arms wrapped around you and you felt your head roll onto the fabric of a shirt. That same heavy scent of cologne filled your nostrils and you forced your eyes open. Coughing weakly. You were ignored as the person holding you curled around you; almost protectively. “Friend stay!” 

Around the room, you glimpsed four men. Almost all identical in looks stare at you in defeat. 

To them, they were at a stand-still. They couldn’t tear you away from Robbie without causing a very dangerous situation. It would risk Robbie Turning, or you getting injured or panicking. 

The man with a baseball cap sighed and looked to the other three. His gaze close to pleading. 

“Let’s talk to them. They’re human after all, and they have a dog. Dog people are trust-worthy.” 

“Chase, that is so stupid even I’m surprised it came from your mouth.” The scratchy voice came from a man with a scar across his neck. His green hair messy and all over the place. His eyes a vibrant green, like they were glowing. “You do realise dog-fighting is a thing. And they consist mostly of dog-people.” 

The man, Chase, frowned and glared at the more menacing guy. But said nothing, he looked a little heartbroken. 

The arms around you tightened when Anti turned back to look at you. Meeting your confused gaze with a sharp scowl. 

“I still think Marvin should hex them.” He said after a moment. Receiving a gurgled growl from the person holding you. “Hey man, it’s not gonna hurt them. Just put them to sleep for a bit. And make them forget us.” 

“No.” Robbie snarled. Falling quiet when your dog glanced at him.

Panting happily.

Your pet was probably overjoyed to be on a bed with you. Despite the fact that there were many strange men around you and you were practically trembling with fear. (Y/D/N) didn’t care. They were probably expecting a cuddle or even a treat. 

Seeing that these guys weren’t taking you seriously yet, you decided it was time to test out your voice. Your head was pounding, you were being held hostage by a man who reeked of cheap store deodorant and you had no idea what was happening. 

“My name is (y/n). Look, I don’t know what is going on, but I promise not to tell anyone. J-Just let me go.” You were surprised by how calm you sounded. But one cold look from Anti and you were back to shaking. 

This Robbie guy moved you so he was shielding you from those neon green eyes. His teeth bared in a snarl. 

“Rob, buddy, mind explaining why you attacked this person?” The baseball cap guy, Chase, crouched beside the bed. Catching Robbie’s attention and you felt the guy instantly relax a little. 

You liked this Chase. He was more friendly and obviously knew that demanding something or arguing wasn’t going to help. 

You turned your head enough so that you could see the man that held you. 

At the park he looked horrible. His skin had been dry and flaky. Eyes dead and almost emotionless; shambling towards you like a horror film zombie. 

It had been a terrifying experience and before you could sprint off, you had been captured in his arm. After that, it was a blur. 

But here, Robbie’s skin was smooth. Despite a small cut to his lip. 

Had you done that? When you tried to fight him off? 

“Smell... nice.” Robbie said and Chase’s lips quirked in an uncertain laugh. Pressing a hand to his lips as Robbie continued. “Pup wanted...to play. (Y/n)’s hair..smelt...pretty.” 

“Oh dear fucking god, Robbie.” Anti huffed and beside him, a masked man had to hide his grin behind a cough. All of them seemed to find this a little humorous. But you were very confused. Had you been kidnapped because of your shampoo?? 

“An-i tried to... hurt them...” Robbie’s tone dipped into a growl and all eyes turned to Anti. Who quickly raised his hands in a gesture of surrender. Cutting off a rising scolding from the last man in the group.

“No. No, that is not what happened! Robbie had them in a headlock! He was hugging them so tight they couldn’t breath. I was trying to remove him off them. Schneep you said so yourself; that the, uh, thingumabobs, on their neck is like they were being strangled.” 

The man who has started the scolding, Schneep, sighed heavily and nodded. Fixing his glasses to sit on his nose as he crossed his arms. 

“It iz true. (Y/n) had abbreviations around their neck and shoulders zat could be early signs of strangulation. Robbie vouldn’t have tried to kill zem. But he iz known to get.... overexcited.” 

“Robbie not hurt (y/n)!” The man’s voice sharpened and became clearer with the rising anger. But his strength increased too and you were quickly feeling the same sensation of being crushed like before. 

(Y/D/N) whined and started barking when you flailed, trying to push the man off you. Managing to dislodge the guy enough to almost knock him away.

Chase was quick to grab you and Anti glitched in behind Robbie. Peeling his arms off you and pinning him to the bed. 

“No! Let go, An-i!” Robbie screeched. His hands reaching for you as Chase escorted you out. Making soft whistle noises to your pup, who bounded after the both of you. 

Schneep slammed the door shut the moment you and your dog were free of the room. The sounds of Robbie’s cries echoed after you as Chase guided you into the kitchen. 

“I’m real sorry about this,” Chase said. Offering you a seat on a stool by the kitchen counter. “Usually Robbie is better behaved. He must really like you if he had tried to hug you in public. He’s not one for stranger interactions.” 

“To be honest we’ve met before. He was walking by my house and (y/d/n) started playing with him through the fence. I didn’t really recognise him till now.” The words tumbled from your lips as the memory flooded back. Was that why you hadn’t attacked the moment he hugged you? Did you think he was coming over to say hi?

It was still a blur. And it frustrated you trying to piece it all together. 

Chase gave you a sympathetic smile and flicked on the kettle. Preparing to make you a warm beverage. 

“To be honest, it’s kinda our fault this happened. We try to keep Robbie indoors so he doesn’t disturb anyone. But sometimes we forget to lock the doors and Robbie has a way of finding an exit out of yards. He’s an escape artist, I’m telling you. Anytime you need a way out of prison, I’d suggest going to him.” 

You chuckled and shrugged. “I’ll keep that in mind.” 

The two of you fell into an awkward silence. What were you meant to say to one of the five men that kidnapped you? 

Chase clicked his tongue against the roof of his mouth. Scrambling to find some topic to fill the silence. 

Glancing at your dog as it pushed it nose into the trash can; almost knocking it over in it’s determination to explore the smells there. 

“Your dog is adorable. Robbie has a way with animals. They seem to love him, even when he’s Turned.” 

Suddenly realising that he shouldn’t have said that; Chase clamped his lips shut and looked at you hopefully. 

“Ignore that. Please? I don’t wanna get dragged into the scolding from Schneep when you leave. I’ve already heard the whole ‘no secrets to outsiders’ rule.” 

It was obvious that something was going on here. But they seemed like pretty cool guys. Even though, yes, they did kidnap you and seemed like they were threatening to dump you in a random location after... “hexing” you. 

But they were still to try any real threats to you. And they were half being polite.

“I promise not to tell anyone.” You said. And Chase didn’t miss the flash of fear in your eyes. He smiled softly. It reminded you a parent trying to comfort their child after a nightmare. 

It was warm and friendly. It surprisingly comforted you, even despite his next words. 

“Don’t worry. We won’t do anything to you. Robbie will make sure of it.” It was meant as a joke. But Chase was never good at those. 

After Chase made your tea and you both fell into a silent understanding that there was no more talking; you both fell into a tense quiet. 

Up until the rest of the group came out to join you both. 

The masked man and Schneep were the first to come out. Watching expectantly as Robbie and Anti followed. They looked like two kids who had been caught with their hand in a cookie jar. 

Schneep crossed his arms and nodded to you. “Apologise. Or Marvin makes you cluck.”

“Sorry~” Robbie said instantly. His gaze was gentle; matching the same gaze (y/d/n) gives you when they’ve chewed up your shoes again. “I...didn’t mean.. to hurt you....” Robbie concentrated on every syllable so his voice carried them clearly. It was obvious to you that he had some sort of speech impediment.  

Anti however glared at you and glanced away. Mumbling under his breath; too quiet for you to catch. 

The masked guy, Marvin you guessed, rolled his eyes and withdrew a wand from his cloak. He waved it once and Anti’s eyes widened as his lips opened and a loud chicken like “cluck” burst from his mouth. 

Robbie giggled as Anti muffled the rest of the series of chirps and clicks. Eyes shining like sparks of green hell-fire as Marvin returned his wand to his cloak.

“Louder this time.” Marvin said and Anti groaned. 

Head bowed and shoulders slumped, Anti stuffed his hands into his jeans and forced through clamped teeth. “I’m. Sorry....for kidnapping you.” 

You didn’t really know how to respond to that. But you smiled and nodded. 

“I, uh, forgive you. Just... don’t do it again.” 

“Ve can promise zat,” Schneep said. His gaze turning to you; hardening as he continued. “Only if you promise us zat you vill not share vhat happened here. Ve mean no harm. But ve vill if you push-” 

“No!” Again, Robbie’s arms caged you against his chest. Almost pulling you off your chair as Robbie hugged you tight against him. “No hurt, (y/n).” 

You chuckled at the collective groans from the other men. This was probably something that happened often. Not to strangers, but it did look like Robbie liked to take hold of someone and not let go. This was further showed through the exasperated tone Chase had. 

“Robbie, we aren’t going to hurt them. We just want to make sure they don’t spill the beans on us. Alright.” 

“They...promised.” Robbie snapped. His hold much more careful now he had you again. He didn’t want to hurt you anymore then he already had. “They...friend.” 

“Alright, alright. Look Robbie, just let them go and we can talk, ok?” Marvin smiled under his mask. Hoping to coax his brother into releasing you. 

But Robbie shook his head, his bottom lip trembling a little and everyone tensed when his eyes began to turn grey. 

“Uh, Rob, it’s ok. You can stay with them until we work it out. It’s ok.” Chase moved closer and Robbie continued to shake his head. He was trembling and you didn’t like the small whimpers that were slipping out of his chest. It was sad.

You reached up and squeezed his fingers. Hushing him gently. 

“Hey, it’s ok Robbie. I’m not going to leave yet. We can sort this out, ok? Let go and you can sit with me.” 

“Robbie...can’t.” The violet haired man whimpered. And everyone froze, expecting the worse. His eyes turning down to you and your heart nearly broke upon seeing the distraught expression he was wearing. “Robbie...stuck.” 

You weren’t sure what that meant, but everyone around you started to laugh. Chase covered his face with his hat as Marvin shook his head, his shoulder shaking from his cackles. 

Anti wore a grin of dark amusement as he came closer and took a seat next to you. 

“Better get use to it. He’s a zombie. Robbie get’s rigor-mortis whenever he stays in a certain position for too long. So get comfortable. Because he can stay that way for hours.” 

Imagine one day Robbie ventures outside on his own, having grown enough to have control over his hunger and nature.

Even Chase stops worrying on this day. All the Septics long since given up their constant stalking. Knowing that their young undead boy has grown up enough to be on his own. And when Robbie leaves the house, they all gather at the front door like parents saying goodbye to their kid on their first day. Waving goodbye and shouting warnings and encouragement.

And Robbie loves it. The freedom of walking wherever he wants. Buying his own food with his own money. He's having a great adventure on the beach finding pretty shells and stones. Catching a bus to a park and playing with the dogs. Chatting with an elderly person feeding the ducks at the pond.

By the end of the day, Robbie is exhausted and collaspes on the couch upon getting home. Laying out his favorite shells to show Jackaboyman.

"So, your first day out was fun?" Jackie asked. Frowning when Robbie shrugged, fiddling with a deep green stone he kept from the park.

"I-It was gooooood... but... I m-issss every....one." Robbie replied. His words slurring with the exhaustion. "I-I misss every...one laughing tog-gether. Like when we went to the....play-ground and Hen-ik got-t stuck in the ssslide. Or th-he tricks Ch-ase did off the swings.... it was.... lonely today."

Fifty Shades of Green

So I wanted to draw some duders... And then this happened.

Here we have a confused zombie, an ecstatic bro, a fierce hero, a frustrated doctah, a twitchy psychopath and a sparkly magician!

(and a simple green boy who wants anybody to get these identical goobers away from him with their neverending madness)

*Arin’s announcer voice*

THIS SUMMER... A nice meet-up in Brighton comes to a horrible end when the unthinkable actually happens...

Two friends take on the task of finding a way to help their infected friend before he goes fully braindead... But will they succeed? Will they find a cure, or will they have to take more desperate measures?

This is the squeal to “Friends In Dead Places” for Halloween. 

Hope you enjoy! 

Warnings: Zombies, gore, a little bit of swearing, violence.

JJ pulled you down from the window. Crouched against the wall as he tugged you close.  You could hear them outside. Whispering to one another, trying to get inside the barricaded house you and the others so carefully put together. 

“We need to alert the others.” You hissed. “Where’s the radio?” 

JJ pointed outside the room, in the direction of Chase’s room. He usually had most of the electronics. He was pretty good at tinkering with them, and he always had extra batteries for the walkie-talkies.  You nodded and took JJ’s hand. Keeping low as you hurried through the hallway.  The sound of iron on wood was unnerving. They were trying to pry the boards of wood off the windows. They had already broken two of the downstairs windows, which had alerted you and JJ to their presence. But the Septics had planned for many scenarios. Meaning it was going to take the looters a while to get through the doors. 

You pushed opened Chase’s door and went straight to his desk. Finding a walkie-talkie there, but no batteries.  JJ had already rummaged through another set of drawers, finding some and helping you click them in place.  You switched the machine on and adjusted the channel to the one Henrik advised you to use in an emergency. 

“Guys, are you there? It’s (y/n).” You spoke softly. Enough that the other person could hear, but not loud enough to give their position away if they happen to be hiding. You had already learnt that lesson with Anti after giving his position away when he had been hunting some Undead. 

There was a moment of silence, and just before you were going to speak again, Chase’s voice came through the connection. Along with a series of gunfire and loud moans.  “(Y/N! I’m here. We’re currently pinned down at the school. We’re surrounded, but Angel is flying us out if we can make it to the roof. Anti’s injured. Not bitten but he was knocked into some kind of animal trap. Someone’s been putting them around the area.” 

Your blood froze. If they were pinned then they couldn’t come back. “We have a situation here. There’s a group of people outside the house. They’re trying to get in.” 

“Fuck.” Chase hissed. Another voice could be heard behind him, asking what was wrong. As Chase explained what was happening, JJ peered out the window and you saw him point down at the ground. He made another signal with his hands and you nodded. 

They’re trying another window.

You prayed they would give up soon. But you guessed they wouldn’t. Already you and the Septics were low on food. And that group were probably in the same boat. 

“Alright, (Y/N), you there?” It was Marvin this time. 

“Yeah, I’m here.” 

“Ok, in my room, on the desk nearest to the window, are three jars. One of them is labelled “Bomb Fluid”. It’s very easy to use, but it’s also very sensitive to movement. If you pick it up and jostle it too much, the entire jar will explode.” Marvin said. Some grunts and groans coming through the speakers. And you heard Henrik yelling for Chase to close the doors. You could also hear Anti cursing. 

“Why on earth do you have something called “Bomb Fluid”!” You hissed. But you were already making your way to his room. Throwing open the door and hurrying to the desk under the window.  It was cluttered with papers and various glass containers. But sitting in the only empty space on the desk was a large jam jar with the label “Bomb Fluid”. And in big red writing it warned “DO. NOT. TOUCH.”  The contents were bright yellow with bits of silver mixed in the goop. It looked dangerous!

“Don’t question it, just use it.” Marvin replied. Another loud gun shot splitting through the speakers. “All you need is a syringe. There should be one on my desk. Put some of the liquid into it and get near a window close to the people. One drop of that stuff will create a shock-wave that will blast them back and cause some serious burns if they’re too close. “ 

“What about the house?” You asked. Looking through the drawers in the desk until you came across a syringe. You did not want to know why he had an entire desk full of syringes. Or what the top drawer full of glower powder containers were. 

“Do you really think I’d have created something with the word ‘bomb’ in it, without securing the house first?” Marvin actually sounded offended. But you knew he wasn’t. He had a record of destroying parts of the house with his experiments and spells. 

“Ok. I got the liquid. My god, shouldn’t we just use guns?” You asked. “At least it’ll scare them off.” 

“Guns bring Dead, and if we use guns, those people might come back with more.” Marvin explained. “But if you use that, at least it’ll be a little more quiter and give them a good scare.” You took a deep breath and placed the lid back on the jar. You were shaking, holding the syringe in a hand that was so tense you could feel a cramp already starting. “Please come home soon.” You said and Marvin chuckled. A static-broken cry glitched through the walkie-talkie and Marin’s voice crackled in afterwards. 

“We promise.” 

You put down the walkie-talkie and carefully turned around with the syringe full of yellow goop. You were so tense that even as you turned, your movements looked that of a well oiled robot.  JJ had a look of absolute terror on his face. His eyes going between you and the syringe.  He then took out his notebook and scribbles something on it, turning it so you could see. 

“This is insane. Lets throw rocks at them.” 

You wanted to laugh. Out of nervousness or the image his words brought. But you were terrified of moving the liquid around too much. “Lets just trust the magician for once, ok?” Your voice shook. But you started to walk towards where the people were last.  You looked at JJ, gesturing for him to open the window. And as he did, you heard a voice call out. 

“Holy shit, there’s someone in there. Hey you! Wanna let us in? I promise we’re friendly.” A woman and her group looked up at you. Stepping back from the window to get a proper look at you and JJ.  They were armed to the teeth. Guns, knives and clothes that were both cameo-coloured and also thick.  

“I’ll give you one chance to turn away.” You replied. Having to force your voice to be a little less shaky. You felt braver now you had something to defend yourself with. But it was still a scary situation. 

“Or what? You got guns?” A man asked. His sneer was smug as he lifted his rifle up for you to see. “So do we. But we only want food. That’s all.” 

“We don’t have enough to share.” You told them. “One last chance.” 

The people chuckled. Shaking their heads, even laughing when you lifted the syringe and pointed it out of the window. You stretched your arm as far as it’ll go and looked down at the group.  “I’m really sorry.” You pressed down on the depressor. Only enough for a single drop to pour out of the containment.  It sparkled as it fell, catching the light of the sun. And then it changed colour. A bright orange glow as it expanded, shining like a small sun before striking the ground and sending a shock-wave of fire outwards.  The entire house shook from the impact and JJ held you tight, keeping you standing. But the group were thrown off their feet. Flames licked their bodies, searing their clothes as it passed over them.  The explosion had been only a soft thwump, but the looters cries were enough to draw even the Dead that weren’t walking.

“What the fuck was that?” One of the men screamed. Hitting his arm to put out a flame. 

“A bomb! I think they just fucking threw a bomb at us.” The woman snarled. Standing up in her outrage. She looked very red, the heat had been intense enough to sear some of her hair away. But she didn’t seem to notice, and those around her appeared to be too afraid to point it out to her. 

You readied your arm again, JJ this time holding you more securely. Now you knew how big the explosion was, you were both ready for it.  “Don’t make me do it again.” You dared them to move. To reach for their guns, move closer to the house. Anything. You felt better now with the upper hand. As least for the moment. You prayed the didn’t make you do it. You didn’t want to hurt anyone, unless pushed. 

The group glared up at you. Their own gazes holding a level of defiance you had seen similarly in Anti. Just before he does something rash.  You placed your finger on the depressor.  The woman’s hand twitched towards the gun by her side. Both of you were fixed on the other, waiting for one to make a move. 

However, you didn’t get a chance to see who would draw first.  A loud gurgled howl tore your attention from the group. Their guns were instantly raised, safety flicked off as a body shambled around the house to the backyard. 

“Robbie!” You cried out. Happiness and also terror clawing at your guts as Robbie snarled at the looters. He stopped, grey eyes taking in each face. Totally ignoring that he had four guns pointed at him. 

“What the fuck...” The woman hissed. “Hey! Are you alive? Tell us or we’ll blow your brains out.” 

Robbie stood up straighter. His gaze loosing some of its grey hue. “Get...Out.”  His voice was a growl, gargled by the moaning lisp to his tone. But it was enough to give the looters a shock.  Their guns were still raised, but they didn’t shook. 

“We just want food.” The woman snapped. “That’s all. Give us what we want and we’ll leave.” 

Robbie shook his head. His movements sluggish and stiff. “No.... you leave... now!”

The last word was a shout. More like a screech, but what followed turned your blood to ice.  JJ cowered next to you. His grip on your arm tightening as a horde, a massive crowd of zombies stumbled around the house. Their moans were loud enough to drown out the startled cries of the looters. And you didn’t know how to feel when the zombies started to move towards them. Their hands outstretched, grasping at the air and swallowing Robbie in their mass.  So shocked by their sudden appearance, the group of looters didn’t start shooting until the dead were almost on them.  They swung the barrels of the guns left and right. Showering the Undead in bullets. But there was too many.  JJ hauled you away from the window as the zombies reached the humans. Their cries were sickening, even more so with the sound of tearing flesh and eating zombies.  You felt your stomach twist and you swallowed the little bit of bile that rose from your stomach. 

“I’m ok.” You told JJ. “But we need to get Robbie in.” 

JJ nodded, carefully taking the syringe from you and placing it down on the window sill. He definitely didn’t want that to be carried around, or somewhere Robbie could get it when you got him inside.  The two of you raced to the skylight in the hallway. It had been modified so a ladder could be pulled down and you would have access to the roof. Upon reaching the roof, your gag reflex made you cough. The smell! The rotting corpses all around you were reeking of a stench that burned your nostrils. You coughed and tried to breath through your mouth, but it was thick enough to taste! 

JJ followed you up, sticking very close to the centre of the roof and keeping low. The looters cries had been silenced, and you didn’t want these things to turn their attention to the house. 

“(Y/N)!” Robbie’s voice caught your attention over the grunts and groans of the dead. You looked down, seeing Robbie on the front lawn. A few stragglers hanging around him. Looking at him almost mystified. “You... ok?” 

He didn’t look hurt. He had some blood splattered on him and a torn sleeve on his long shirt. But no bullet holes, stab wounds or bite marks.  He was ok.  You breathed a sigh of relief and smiled, properly for the first time since this hell started. 

“I’m fine, Robbie. It’s so good to see you.” You called out to him. Forgetting for a moment that the dead surrounded your home. “Um... these things aren’t going to hurt you right?” 

Robbie smiled a big smile and shook his head. He shuffled over to a zombie, one of the few that had turned to look at the house. Hearing your voice caught their attention and now they were shuffling towards you.  But Robbie wrapped his arms around one of them. The zombie stopped and looked at him. A groan like snarl emitting from his grey lips. But it didn’t attack. It just continued to look at him.  “Friends! I b-brought... them to... say h-hello.” Robbie told you. And JJ shuffled uneasily on his feet. He didn’t like how many of the dead were now surrounding the house. There were still only a few trying to get inside, but anymore and there would be a problem. 

“Robbie, sweetie, um... your friends eat people.” It came out harshly. But you couldn’t beat around the bush now. If these things tore down the barricades, you were trapped.  Robbie looked sad. Releasing the zombie he had embraced and nodding. Looking very guilty. 

“I know.... I tried to s-stop them... but they o-nly l-listen... to me when w-we walk.” Robbie glanced at the zombies that were now banging their hands against the front door.  He hurried forward and grabbed their shoulders, pulling them away. “No. Bad friend.... Don’t scratch the door.” 

You found it a little amusing that Robbie spoke to the creatures like they were toddlers. But, if you take away the flesh eating tendencies and rotting corpse body, they basically were like kids.  “Robbie, are you able to get them away from the house? Anti is injured and Angel will be back any moment with him. We can’t have your friends keeping Anti awake when he’s recovering.” 

Robbie’s eyes widened. Concern flooding his expression as he stared up at you.  “Will An-i be ok?” He asked. His hands were clasped in front of him, worrying twisting his fingers. He had been away for a long time. And he missed his brothers greatly, but hearing Anti was hurt made him forget about all the fun he was having with his new friends. 

“He will be. I promise. But your friends will distract Henrik from getting Anti to feel better.” You said. And JJ quickly held your hand as he heard a window break somewhere on the side of the house. Every was board up, but that was another layer of defence gone from the openings. Robbie whimpered, he wanted to stay and wait for Anti. But his friends were making too much noise, and they were breaking things.  He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small bell. He got closer to the horde of zombies and started to ring it.  You were surprised by how loud and high pitch such a small bell could make. But you were very glad for it. Because the sound caught the attention of every zombie near Robbie. And they turned to face him, following him as he started walking away from the house.  Those in the backyard, noticing the others were leaving, followed. No doubt thinking they found more food.  You and JJ crouched down on the roof. Not wanting to accidentally catch one of the zombies attention and bring them back. 

You saw Robbie turn and wave over his shoulder. To which, you and JJ returned the wave with one of your own.  The two of you waited until the horde and turned the corner and disappeared before standing.  “Ok... so Robbie is a zombie leader now?” You said. A small tease lining your words.  JJ however did not look impressed. His face was pale and he signed the words 

“I never want to see that again.”