Shawn's hands trembled as he tried desperately to keep his grip on the gun. The two men walked forward, the carried an intimidating aura about them.

VICTOR: I didn't think there'd be more survivors roaming around here. I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say you three probably came here to check out those gunshots...

Tyler then spotted the deceased child that Layla had cradled in her arms

TYLER: Oh hey! Look Victor, that's the girl you shot right?

Layla's eyes widened as she looked up at the two men standing before her. Her heart raced, a mix of fear and anger coursing through her veins. She tightened her grip on the small body...

LAYLA: You two did this?

Layla's voice trembled with a mixture of grief and fury. Her eyes bore into Victor and Tyler, her gaze filled with a fierce and intense hate. The lifeless form of the child in her arms was a painful reminder of the two men's cruelty. Tyler chuckled, his voice dripping with arrogance as he responded to Layla's accusation

TYLER: Hey now, don't be like that, we were only carrying out orders. She was doomed from the start. I like to think of it as more of a... mercy killing

Vince could feel his blood boil at the nonchalant attitude that Tyler displayed. With his sights set squarely on Tyler's head, Vince spoke

VINCE: You're one sick piece of shit, you know that don't you!?

Tyler's gaze met Vince's for just a moment before rolling his eyes. Though what did interest Tyler, was the young boy who had his own gun trained on Victor. Finding it a bit amusing, Tyler elbowed his partner in the side to gain his attention.

TYLER: Get a load of this kid, Vic!

Victor's eyes then met the green of Shawn's, the boy gulped, steadying his weapon as he tried to choke back the fear. The two locked eyes for what felt like an eternity, it was as if Victor was staring into the boy's very soul

VICTOR: Hmm...

TYLER: Hmm? what is "Hmm?" is that code, or? like am I missing something?

VICTOR: What's your name, brat?

Shawn's voice quivered, but he managed to respond, his determination pushing him forward.

SHAWN: It's Shawn. Shawn Everett!

Victor's gaze intensified, his eyes probing Shawn's. After a moment of silence, he spoke with a hint of curiosity.

VICTOR: Shawn, huh? You're quite brave, pointing that gun at me. But let me tell you something, kid. This world doesn't favor the brave or the innocent. It's a world of survival, where only the ruthless prevail. Right now for example, it wouldn't take much effort, for two highly trained soldiers like myself this idiot I call a partner to put holes in all three of you...

TYLER: Who's the idiot?

Victor's explanation caused Layla to stand slowly with the dead child in her arms as she made her way over to Shawn, standing in front of him protectively

VICTOR: Oh?

LAYLA: I'll kill the both of you before I let any of that happen!

Suddenly, a sea of walkers came pouring into the area, drawn by the commotion and noise. Groans and moans filled the air as the relentless horde closed in on Victor, Tyler, Layla, Shawn, and Vince. Victor and Tyler, relatively calm amidst the chaos, exchanged a knowing glance as the walkers closed in. Victor's expression hardened, and he turned back to face Layla, Shawn, and Vince. His voice carried a very cold and matter-of-fact tone...

VICTOR: Killing you all here and now would be a waste of bullets. Consider yourselves lucky... for now. But remember, the next time we cross paths, I'll be putting a bullet in each of you

VINCE: Goddammit!

*BANG! BANG!*

Vince opened fire on the approaching Walkers before turning to Layla. The woman's eyes filled with hate as she watched the two men take their leave. Tyler then looked back, offering Layla a smile and a wave

TYLER: Be seein ya!

Shawn jumped slightly as his mother's tone had a horrifying edge to as she spoke...

LAYLA: Shawn... hand me your gun

SHAWN: M-Mom?

*BANG! BANG! BANG!*

VINCE: Layla! We don't have time for this! Just grab Shawn and let's get out of here before we're overrun!

Gritting her teeth, Layla clutched the young girl's body tightly as she took her own son's hand and ran. Vince began cleared a path, dispatching multiple walkers as both Layla and Shawn followed. Shawn could sense the fury radiating from his mother as they ran through the chaotic swarm of walkers. Her grip on his hand was tight, almost painful, but considering what had just transpired, he couldn't blame her

Hours later...

Sheldon D. Franklin, a former biologist, carefully positioned the extracted walker's tooth onto a microscope slide. He chose a slide that was clean and free from any contaminants. With gloved hands, he gently placed the tooth onto the center of the slide, making sure it was flat and secure. Once everything was in place, the man leveled his eye into the microscope's eyepiece and adjusted the focus knobs to bring the tooth into sharp clarity...

SHELDON: (Breathlessly) Absolutely fascinating

However, as the man's fascination grew, he failed to notice as the commander made his way inside the laboratory. The commander's presence would then be recognized as the metal door he entered through, slammed shut. Sheldon jumped, having been frightened by the sudden noise. Turning around the man spotted the commander, peering over the walker corpse that lay on the examination table...

SHELDON: DAMIAN! *Cough* E-Excuse me, I... I didn't expect you to...

[Damian Graves - "The commander"], known for his "survival of the fittest" mentality, possesses a cold and ruthless demeanor. Having climbed the ranks to become the "Commander," Damian achieved his position through calculated acts of betrayal and murder. In the early days of the outbreak, he seized an opportunity to eliminate his former superior during a rescue mission, demonstrating his cunning and determination to advance his own interests. Within the small community of survivors, Damian is revered as a leader who has successfully protected them, gaining the respect of both citizens and his fellow soldiers alike. Unbeknownst to them, his rise to power is stained by deceit and bloodshed, and whoever found out, and weren't in agreement with his methods...

DAMIAN: How's the experiment coming along, doctor? I hope our friend Ramirez here, hasn't been too much trouble for you

SHELDON (Thoughts): As if you'd actually give a damn about anyone's well being

SHELDON: N-No sir. Everything has been satisfactory as of late. The analysis of the walker's tooth is progressing steadily. We've been able to extract valuable data regarding the evolution of the virus and its impact on the host.

Damian then gave the doctor a look, as if to say "Go on" Sheldon then cleared his throat before explaining his recent findings...

SHELDON: Well, sir, the tooth analysis has provided some interesting insights. We've observed significant mutations in the viral structure within the tooth compared to previous samples we've analyzed. It appears that the virus has been evolving rapidly, adapting to its environment and host organisms. This could explain the increasing aggression and resilience we've been witnessing in the walkers.

Damian nodded, seemingly intrigued by the information. His eyes gleamed with a mix of curiosity and ambition.

DAMIAN: And what implications does this have for us, Doctor?

Sheldon hesitated for a moment, carefully choosing his words.

SHELDON: The implications are vast, sir. With a deeper understanding of the virus's evolution, we may be able to develop more effective strategies for containment and possibly even find a way to counteract its effects. It could also lead to advancements in vaccine research or the development of targeted treatments...

He was cut short as Damian raised a hand to silence him

DAMIAN: That bullet I asked you for, is it finished?

SHELDON: Pardon?

Sheldon was taken aback by the commander's immediate focus on weaponizing the virus. He hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to respond to the commander's request.

SHELDON: Sir, I understand the need for self-defense and protection, but deliberately weaponizing the virus? It could have devastating consequences. We can't fully comprehend its behavior and potential long-term effects. The "new life" program, for example...

DAMIAN: Stop

SHELDON: Was formed in the hopes of cracking the secret to immortality

DAMIAN: I SAID! I said... stop. *Sigh* I asked you for a bullet, that could spread the infection via entering the body, now, I only going to repeat myself the one time. Where. Is. My. Bullet?

Sheldon swallowed hard, realizing the gravity of the situation and the commander's unwavering determination. He knew that Damian would stop at nothing to achieve his goals, even if it meant sacrificing countless lives in the process. Turning his gaze downward, Sheldon slowly walked over to the counter, picking up two of the completed bullets before walking back to Damian, and presenting them. The commander whistled in approval, a sinister smile playing on his lips as he admired the doctor's craftsmanship

DAMIAN: You've outdone yourself, doctor. Congratulations. Not only did you follow my orders, but you managed to extend your own lifespan

Sheldon couldn't hide the conflict within him. He had dedicated the last three months of his life to studying the virus, hoping to find a way to combat it and save lives. But now, he found himself complicit in its weaponization, knowing the potential devastation it could cause...

SHELDON: Commander, I implore you to reconsider. There are other paths we can take, ones that don't involve such extremes. We must prioritize finding a cure or a way to protect ourselves without resorting to these dangerous tactics.

DAMIAN: We're not saving the world, Doctor. We tried that already, and it failed. I'm the man who's gonna step up and put the new world under his thumb, both walker, and humans alike. I don't intend to cure the virus; I intend to conquer it...

Sheldon stared at Damian in disbelief. The commander's words were a chilling reminder of how this new world of theirs could consume someone. It was evident that Damian had abandoned any notion of basic human compassion, or perhaps, he never had any to begin with

SHELDON: Conquer it? You can't control something as unpredictable and volatile as the virus. It will only lead to more suffering and destruction.

The commander smiled

DAMIAN: Watch me

Having said his piece, the commander turned his back to Sheldon, his expression filled with determination and a ruthless sense of purpose. He walked towards the door, leaving Sheldon standing there, torn between his moral compass and the realization that he was entangled in a dangerous game, with no easy way out.

Hours later...

VINCE: Layla?

Vince called out, trying to gain the attention of the woman in front of Emily's grave. The atmosphere was heavy with silence as Layla remained lost in her thoughts, staring at the makeshift tombstone. Vince's voice carried a mix of concern and urgency as he tried to break through her silence.

VINCE: Layla, I think it's about time you came inside, it's not safe out here

Layla's gaze remained fixed on the grave, her expression a mix of grief and anger. She seemed lost in her own world, disconnected from the reality around her. Vince's voice grew more desperate as he attempted to snap her out of it.

VINCE: Layla, please... Macon's become way too dangerous. We need to start making more of an effort. Savannah is what? about a two to three hour drive? I know it's not preferable, but... walking there is should take two days at most.

Still, there was no response from Layla. It was as if she was frozen in time, her thoughts consumed by the loss of the unknown girl buried before her. Vince felt a pang of frustration mixed with sympathy as he realized the depth of Layla's pain. He took a step closer, gently placing a hand on her shoulder. Feeling his hand on her shoulder, she snapped out of her daze and spoke...

LAYLA: This could have been, Shawn, or me, or you. This could have been all three of us. Hell, it almost was

VINCE: But it isn't

LAYLA: So you're saying what? we should run?

VINCE: I'm gonna act like you aren't seriously suggesting we pick a fight, and say yes

Unbeknownst to Vince, Layla clenched her fist, drawing blood from her palms as a torrent of repressed memories plagued her mind. The girl wasn't her daughter, and Layla knew her for all of three minutes, and yet, the thought of running away only angered the woman. Layla took a deep breath, taking in Vince's words she realized just how correct he was, Shawn was still here, and that's all that mattered at the moment. Slowly, she stood, and turned to Vince with a weak smile

LAYLA: You're right, getting out of here is all that matters...

She placed a hand on Vince's shoulder as she continued

LAYLA: Let's get some shut eye

Vince watched as Layla walked back toward the building. he wasn't exactly sure whether or not his words had truly reached Layla, only time would tell. He gave one last glance at the grave and with a solemn expression...

VINCE: I'm sorry

A few hours later...

Layla Everett lay only a few inches away from her son, the day's event weighing heavy on the child's mind as he spoke...

SHAWN: Mom? That girl from earlier... that's not... that's not going to happen to us, is it?

Layla gave her son the most reassuring smile she could muster, trying to ease his worries

LAYLA: I'll never let something like that happen to you Shawn. Besides, you're supposed to be my little sharpshooter, remember?

Shawn clutched the revolver tightly as he spoke

SHAWN: I'm no sharpshooter, I didn't even have the safety turned off earlier. What if they actually shot at us, I wouldn't have been ready

LAYLA: It was an oversight, don't let that get to you. You've got everything you need to survive in this world. It may not seem like it now, but it's true. With everything I've taught you, you'll live longer than anybody

Shawn shook his head

SHAWN: I don't want to have to live longer than anybody, I want you and dad to be there every step of the way. Promise me mom, promise me you'll never leave me alone

There it was "Promise me you'll never leave" she hoped she'd never have to hear the words leave Shawn's mouth, at least not for awhile. She pulled Shawn closer, wrapping her arms tightly around him in a protective embrace

LAYLA: We've got a long day ahead of us kiddo, how's about we hit the hay?

He knew his mother was dodging his request, but with everything that's happened today, he was too tired to protest. He was tired, and having his mother running her hand through his hair wasn't helping...

SHAWN: *Yawn* (Tiredly) It's just you and me, right mom?

Even while exhausted, Shawn Everett refused to let the sandman take him without receiving some sort of answer. Layla took a moment to curse her son's stubbornness, a trait he'd undoubtedly gotten from her. Finally, Layla relented...

LAYLA: Yeah... just you and me

SHAWN: And Vince

Layla laughed

LAYLA: Vince is cool too I guess...

The two sat in silence for a few minutes before Shawn issued one final request

SHAWN: (Tiredly) Can you sing?

LAYLA: Hmm? A lullaby. I thought you were too old for that...

SHAWN: Please?

Layla paused for a moment, contemplating Shawn's request. She knew this wasn't going to make what he witnessed today go away, but she also knew that her voice could bring him some semblance of comfort. Besides, he wasn't the only one she found herself singing to sleep. Lee often times would come home and rest his head on her lap, the thought made her smile as she began singing...

LAYLA: (Singing)

You are my sunshine,

My only sunshine,

You make me happy,

When skies are gray.

As Layla sang, Shawn closed his eyes, feeling the weight of the day slowly lift off his shoulders. The familiarity of his mother's voice and the soothing melody of the song brought him a sense of peace and security.

LAYLA: (Singing)

You'll never know, dear,

How much I love you.

Please don't take my sunshine away.

Tears began pooling in the corners of Layla's eyes as she took in the sight of her son's serene and relaxed expression as he drifted off to sleep, she continued...

LAYLA: (Singing)

The other night, dear,

As I lay sleeping,

I dreamt I held you in my arms.

Her voice grew softer, filled with a tender longing for the safety and happiness of her family. How she wanted nothing more than to have her husband's arms wrapped around her small frame...

LAYLA: (Singing)

When I awoke, dear,

I was mistaken,

so I hung my head and cried.

As the song reached its final verse, Layla's voice quivered slightly with emotion, but she continued to sing, her love and devotion pouring through every note.

LAYLA: (Singing)

You are my sunshine,

My only sunshine,

You make me happy,

When skies are gray.

https://youtu.be/XZBB6s1pQBg

{A/N: Song plays over this next scene}

[A/N: The scene transitions to "The Commander" in a dimly lit room. He sits at a worn-down wooden table, illuminated by a single hanging lightbulb swinging gently overhead. The room is filled with an air of tension and secrecy.]

The man takes a swig from his flask as he holds one of the walker infected bullets, raising the bullet up into the light, he smiled, thinking of all the possibilities. Spinning around in his seat, Damian stood and approached a safe that was built into the back wall of his office. Opening it, he smiled as he was greeted by the sight of his former Commander turned walker, it snapped and bit at him, Damian smiling all the while as he spoke...

DAMIAN: My old friend. Look at you now, reduced to this sorry state. But don't worry, my dear Commander, your sacrifice won't go in vain. You'll serve a higher purpose, a purpose that will shape the destiny of this world. I wanted you to know that, under my leadership, I'm doing more than you ever could. The time for fear and uncertainty is over. The world outside is in chaos, torn apart by the relentless march of walkers. But I will bring order. I'll forge a new world, where the weak cower no more and the strong will rise, to their rightful place...

He raised the flask before taking one last drink, and closing the safe's door close

A/N: And that wraps up this chapter! I hope you guys enjoyed and be sure to leave plenty of feedback. Let me know what you think of the story so far, I'd be happy to engage with you all. Until next time, enjoy reading, and I will catch you in the next chapter.