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"There's no other way?" Jimin shook his head and emitted a sigh. He folded the map and stored it back into the backpack and peered across at the ominous growth of buildings that made up Seoul; or at least, what was left of it. "We could try going around but it'd take too long...you know time isn't on our side anymore" Taehyung ran his hands down his face trying to calm his shot nerves. "How long do we have?" Jimin pulled out a small calendar book and flipped the pages until he fell onto the desired one. His eyes scanned the scribbled mess of words against the torn, filthy pages and let out a soft grunt."Today is the second, yeah? We've got three days until the truck leaves" Jimin replaced the calendar book with a bottle of water and took a small sip before offering it to Taehyung, who took a large mouthful. Jimin scrunched his nose in dislike and quickly snatched the bottle back."Hey! We don't have much left of this so take it easy" Taehyung laughed airily and pulled at the dyed strands of hair anxiously."I'm sure we can pick some more up in Seoul" Jimin shook his head, standing, and held the backpack out to Taehyung."We don't know that, Tae. We can't assume..." Taehyung took the backpack and hoisted it over his shoulder. He gave Jimin an apologetic smile."I know...I'm just scared, Chim" Jimin pulled Taehyung into a quick hug before releasing the younger and bending down to retrieve the rest of their gear."Me too, Tae. But we have no other choice" Taehyung knew Jimin was right - he always was - but that didn't mean he had to like it. Seoul had been deserted ever since it happened and anyone who still valued their life knew to avoid the large city. But Taehyung and Jimin were desperate and the only way to their destination was straight through Seoul.Taehyung eyed the distant city with unease. He had heard the stories - everyone had - and he prayed that they were exaggerated, that they weren't true. Jimin noticed Taehyung's dismal expression and gave him a playful shove."C'mon it'll be fine! What's the worst that can happen?" Taehyung's eyebrows raised at his friend's cheerful tone and watched in disbelief as Jimin sauntered ahead of him with a sledgehammer comfortably sat across his shoulders."...well you've jinxed it now, asshole" ☣The pair navigated the desolate streets with caution - neither of them had ever been to Seoul before so the territory was all new. The map did little to help the two as building had been demolished and roads destroyed resulting in both of them becoming lost on several occasions. The grey blur of the buildings merged into one bleak image and the pile up of abandoned cars left the boys feeling disheartened. Thankfully, however, they had remained undetected and were halfway through the city when Jimin said he needed a rest. The pair sat behind an overturned truck and Taehyung hastily dug out a protein bar, snapping it in two and offering half to Jimin. The smaller of the two gratefully took the food and they sat in silence as they savoured the bland taste."How much farther?" Jimin shrugged and swallowed the last bit of food."No idea. The map says a few blocks but I don't know how long it'll take us to get over this mess" Jimin gestured to the cars and debris and Taehyung hummed in thought. "Maybe if your legs were longer we'd get there sooner" Jimin scoffed."If you didn't bitch every step of the way we'd get there sooner" Taehyung snorted and turned his head to the side to face Jimin, who was grinning to himself."That doesn't even make sense" Jimin pouted playfully and crossed his arms over his chest."Your face doesn't make sense" He mumbled and Taehyung giggled at his childishness."And you say you're the older one" Jimin stuck his tongue out and flipped Taehyung off before getting to his feet. He held a hand down to Taehyung who reluctantly took it."Up you get, we've got a good few hours to go before sundown" Jimin pulled Taehyung to his feet and helped brush the dirt from his backside. Taehyung rolled his eyes and swatted Jimin's hands away."If you wanted to grope my ass you could have just asked, you know?" Jimin narrowed his eyes at Taehyung's cocky grin and pointed a finger at his best friend."Listen here, kid-" Jimin's almost-rant was cut short when a low, guttural growl echoed across the street causing both boys' heads to snap in the direction it came from. Jimin's mouth went slack as Taehyung's eyes widened in fear when they saw the clouded, lifeless eyes glowing from across the street. The decaying corpse emerged slowly from the shadows of a collapsed building and gurgled as it stumbled forward, nose twitching as it sniffed the air. Jimin's eyes stayed locked onto the creature as his hand slowly reached out and took hold of Taehyung's - fingers locking together."Tae..." Jimin's voice was barely a whisper - the word breathed out - but Taehyung heard it."I know..." Taehyung squeezed Jimin's hand as the older began to slowly bend down, fingers desperately reaching for the sledgehammer. Jimin felt his fingertips brush against the handle and grasped the weapon, lifting it silently - Taehyung taking hold of the backpack. They began to slowly back away from the truck as the creature began to catch their scent on the air and they prayed that they would get away before it could find them; zombies were blind as hell but what they lacked in vision they more than made up for in speed and sense of smell. Jimin grew hopeful the more distance was put between themselves and the zombie and was about to voice the next course of action when his back hit something. Jimin froze in place. Taehyung, however, spun around - releasing Jimin's hand - and choked out a gasp.They had been so focused on the zombie ahead that they hadn't noticed a second one creeping up behind them. The creature sniffed the air once, twice, before releasing a ear-piercing roar that made Taehyung's blood run cold. Zombies were attracted to noise..."Tae!" Jimin yelled and Taehyung instantly ducked, hands over his head, as Jimin swung the sledgehammer above him - the head connecting with the zombie's. The rotting flesh crumbled under the force and in seconds the surrounding area was drenched in torn flesh and congealed blood. The boys stared as the body dropped to the ground but they only had mere seconds to react before another roar was heard behind them. Taehyung turned, still crouched, and gaped as he watched more zombies emerge from the nearby buildings. Jimin turned too and panted as the adrenaline began flowing through his system. One by one the zombies individually turned to the pair's direction and began moving. "Shit..." Jimin cursed, pulling Taehyung roughly to his feet. He pushed Taehyung behind him and began backing away."Tae-" The zombie closest to the two suddenly jolted and began running at them full pelt. Jimin spun on his heel, shoving Taehyung forward, and screamed a single word."Run!"
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Taehyung stumbled against the uneven ground and Jimin cursed as their pace slowed yet again. It was only a second, but a second is all it ever took. Jimin's chest burned and his muscles were screaming in protest but still he dragged Taehyung behind him, refusing to leave the younger behind.They had both managed to cover a few streets more before Taehyung tripped again...but this time he couldn't get up. Jimin pulled the ginger boy to his feet only for Taehyung to screech in pain and crumble under his own weight - almost dragging Jimin down with him. Taehyung clawed at his ankle and stared vulnerably at the approaching hoard."Jimin I can't" Taehyung choked on his words and Jimin quickly grabbed at his sledgehammer with both hands. He stood over Taehyung in a defensive posture and bared his teeth at the unaffected undead."No! Jimin you have to run...you can't take them all" Jimin's body shook in fear as the zombies got closer and he could see fluids oozing from the putrefied wounds."I'm not leaving you" Taehyung tried to stand, again he fell the second he put weight on his right foot. Jimin, hearing his friends cries, looked between the hoard and the hammer in his hands. He knew deep down that he could never take them on alone - there were at least twenty feral creatures begging to tear him apart. Jimin considered carrying his friend, but he also knew that him and Taehyung wouldn't make it down the street before the zombies caught them.Either way, they were going to die.Jimin suddenly dived beside Taehyung and wrapped an arm around the back of his neck, pulling Taehyung's head to his chest. The younger whimpered when Jimin's fingers blocked his vision and Jimin kissed the top of his head comfortingly."It's going to be okay, TaeTae. I love you - you know that, right? I love you so, so much..." Jimin whispered sweet nothings to Taehyung who had wrapped an arm around Jimin's waist, the other still clutching his ankle. Taehyung was too scared to answer the redhead.Jimin was scared too. He was scared for himself but he was more scared for Tae. He couldn't watch Taehyung be torn apart in front of him...Jimin felt very selfish as he pulled out the pocket knife. His hand trembled as he shakily flicked out the blade and held it against an oblivious Taehyung's neck."I'm so sorry, Tae..." Jimin bit his lip to restrain the sobs but couldn't do much to stop the tears from rolling down his cheeks. He rested his forehead against Taehyung and exhaled shakily, the blade digging a little deeper into Taehyung - who was becoming very aware of what was happening."Jim-""It's easier this way... I'm sorry" Taehyung's hand desperately gripped onto Jimin's wrist."Jimin no!"As Jimin took a deep breath, preparing himself, something flew by in the corner of his vision. Distracted, he removed his hand from Taehyung and both boys watched in confusion as the nearest zombies burst into flames - their screeches and howls filling the otherwise quiet street. The boys could only stare dumbly as the zombies dropped to the floor in a gooey lump with another object landing and erupting the remaining zombies in a wave of fire... (Meanwhile) "Shit, Hope, would you watch it with those things?" The raven haired man scoffed as he carelessly waved a makeshift Molotov between them - the end already lit.
"Bitch, bitch, bitch that's all you ever do" Jin sprang to the side as Hoseok raised his arm back and threw another firebomb at the already sizzling pile of mush (just to be safe, of course). They both heard a light chuckle behind them and Jin spun around to glare at the youngest of their group.
"Oh, you think this is funny?" The guy shrugged, indifferent, and gave Hoseok a knowing look.
"You won't find it funny when this asshole loses his grip and we all burn up in flames!" Jin's face had gone a deep red - an odd contrast against his pale blonde hair - and his eyes had begun to bug out the more worked up he got. Hoseok merely rolled his eyes: too used to the elder's tantrums by now to take them seriously.
"Okay, okay! We saved the cripple. Can we go now?" Jin pointed a finger at Hoseok - who was already grabbing his bag ready to leave.
"Don't be so heartless! We can't just leave these kids! They'll probably die without our help" Hoseok ignored Jin and walked away only for Jin to grab onto his shoulder and roughly pull him back.
"Hey! I'm talking to you!" Hoseok jerked away from Jin's touch and turned, speaking through clenched teeth as he took a dangerous step towards the blonde.
"Listen, princess, I don't give a flying fuck if those brats live or die. I got rid of the corpses because they'd have come for us afterwards" Jin wasn't intimidated by the shorter man and mirrored his movements, stepping forward while rolling his shoulders back.
"Helping them won't stop us getting to the truck, will it? Why do you have to be so...inhuman"
"More people means more mouths to feed and more risk of getting noticed...it's bad enough you and the kid are following me around - I'm not taking on two more" Jin's eyes narrowed.
"You have a problem with us?"
"What an understatement. Let's get one thing straight: when we get to safe haven the both of you are dead to me. I'm only with you now for safety in numbers...but too large a number can get us killed. So go grab the child and let's. Go." Hoseok moved away, confrontational tension slowly evaporating, and Jin sighed as he pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Fine...fine. I hope you can live with those boys' death on your conscience" Hoseok snorted unenthusiastically.
"I'm sure I'll survive" Jin bit the inside of his cheek and turned his head to the side, a small crease appearing between his brows. He spun around - slightly panicking - and his voice raised in pitch.
"Hope...where's Jungkook?"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Who the hell are you?" Jimin growled as he took a defensive stance over Taehyung who was shaking in fear below him. Jungkook shot Jimin a cocky smile as he vaulted a car with ease and wiggled his fingers as a way of greeting."I'm the guy who just saved your ass - you're welcome, by the way" Jungkook's eyes wandered to Taehyung and he sent the orange-haired boy a flirty wink."But you can thank me later" Jimin scoffed and moved in front of Jungkook to block his view - body tensed as he tried to look intimidating to the taller (but clearly younger) guy."Thank you for helping us. You can leave now" Jungkook snorted and gestured to Taehyung who was doing his best to avoid eye contact."But can you? Your legs fucked isn't it?" Taehyung tried moving his leg and whimpered as pain shot through it. He nodded."My ankle...I think it's twisted" Jungkook clapped his hands together and grinned at the pair."Great! I'll carry you then" Jungkook made to move to Taehyung and Jimin was having none of it. He immediately shoved Jungkook backwards and the younger didn't hesitate to pull the small combat knife from his waistband and hold it up in warning. Jimin, however, wasn't intimidated by the weapon and stood his ground."You're not touching him. Get the hell away from us" Taehyung's eyes flickered between the two towering over him knowing that Jimin could probably take the stranger, but would definitely get injured doing so."C-Chim..." Two figures appeared behind Jungkook and began walking to the small group. Jimin spotted the pair and internally cursed - I can't take on three guys... "We don't want trouble..." Jungkook rolled his eyes and waved the knife between the two."Neither do I? You're the one making this difficult" Jimin felt a tug at the end of his trousers and looked down to see Taehyung staring up at him, his eyes pleading."Jimin please-""JEON JUNGKOOK!" Jungkook flinched as his name was screeched and the younger spun around just in time to see Jin get slapped on the head."Shut the fuck up - do you want more to come?" Jin rubbed the sore spot on his head before turning his attention back to Jungkook as they reached the small group. Jimin kept his stance as the others joined them - not trusting the strangers.When Jin got close enough to Jungkook he pointed a finger and scowled at the younger."What did I tell you about running off, huh? Do you know how worried I was?!" Jungkook lowered his eyes and mumbled under his breath. Jin cupped his ear and and leaned in closer to the clearly embarrassed boy."Excuse you? What was that?" Jungkook pouted."I'm sorry, Hyung" Jin narrowed his eyes at the younger before turning to Jimin and giving him a friendly smile."Hello! I'm Seokjin; we're the ones that helped you with your little problem" Jimin eyed the newcomers.Seokjin was tall - really tall - and had the broadest shoulders Jimin had ever seen. His blonde hair was a contrast with his dark eyebrows that helped define a perfectly sculpted face; seriously, this guy could have been a model...maybe he was before all this happened? Full, pouty lips were turned up in a welcoming smile and he had a look of overall kindness that made Jimin relax slightly - very slightly - and loosen his stance.The other guy was a different story.The man wore an obvious scowl that made his otherwise adorable features distorted and unappealing. His mess of black hair hung in front of his eyes bringing Jimin's attention to the various scrapes and healing burns that littered the man's neck and jaw. A backpack was slung over his shoulders with a protective grip on the strap - the other hand loosely holding a machete. His aura screamed 'danger' and Jimin didn't like the way the man was eyeing him up.Jimin, eventually, returned his attention back to Jin."I'm Jimin. Thank you for your help but we really should be going..." Jin cocked his head to the side and examined Jimin."Oh? Where are you off to in such a hurry?" He didn't mean it to sound intimidating or aggressive...he was just genuinely curious as to why Jimin was so eager to leave."We need to get to the other side of the city by tomorrow night - we're kinda on a time limit so-" Jin's face perked up at the new information and his eyes widened slightly in understanding."Ah! You're going to the safe zone, right?""Safe Haven" Jungkook muttered. Jin tsk'd at the younger and shrugged."Safe Haven, safe zone - whatever. You two are making a run for the truck?" Jimin nodded hesitantly and Jin's eyes practically sparkled."So are we! Maybe we could go together? Safety in num-""Jin we've talked about this" Jin huffed in annoyance."That was before this is now. We're headed in the same direction, Hoseok. Why not go together?""They did help us..." Jimin looked down at Taehyung who was watching the interactions and feeling completely left out from his position on the floor. Jin, momentarily forgetting the other boy, gave Taehyung a small wave."Why did you help us?" Jimin had learnt not to trust strangers especially ones that had weapons - and these three were definitely packing. Jin gave Jimin a confused look in regards to the question."Why wouldn't we? We may not know each other but we're not gonna leave you to get eaten by those monsters" Jimin felt Taehyung tap his leg and, again, looked down."We could use the help, Chim. You can't protect us both when I'm like this" Jimin was conflicted.One one hand he wanted to grab Taehyung and walk away from the three strangers. He wanted to get Taehyung safely to the pick up point and not have to worry about three other people slowing them down...But Jimin also knew Taehyung was right. With a twisted ankle they would both be more vulnerable and if another hoard came at them they may not make it out alive...Jimin ran a hand through his dyed hair and stared hard at the ground as he made his decision."We stick together until we reach the pick up point. Then we go our separate ways" Jin nodded eagerly and waved a hand towards the other two who looked less thrilled to be having company on their journey."We have a similar agreement so that's perfect!" Jimin frowned as he looked between the three."You're not together? Any of you?" Hoseok snorted as Jin shook his head 'no'."I found Jungkook wandering around by himself not longer after the outbreak and I couldn't just leave him, you know? He's just a kid after all""Hey!""But we've separated and re-joined a few times now...Oh! This one's Hoseok-"Hoseok sneered at Jimin who in return bared his teeth."-we found him scavenging some unanimated's and ended up running into each other so..." Jimin hummed as he processed the information.
So Jungkook likes to wander off...loner?
And Hoseok seems hostile to everyone...
Jimin made a note to keep an eye out for those two and gestured towards Taehyung, offering his own introductions."This is Taehyung. We've been friends since we were kids and we were together when the virus spread...we're all each other has now" Jin couldn't help but give the younger boys pitying looks. Of course, everyone had lost someone in some way whether if be family or friends...no-one was completely untouched by the virus."Well you have us...until we reach the truck, of course""Of course" There was a moment's pause where everyone looked to each other not quite knowing where to go with this. Should they shake hands? Bro-hug? High five?In the end Jungkook sighed dramatically and placed the knife back into his waistband. Jin, seeing this, made a noise of disapproval at the back of his throat and shook his head at the younger."Why do you do that? If you fall you're gonna seriously hurt yourself!" Jungkook rolled his eyes as he slowly made his way to stand in front of Jimin."So I won't fall" Jungkook motioned to Taehyung and have Jimin a very forced, un-friendly smile."Are you gonna move out of my way?" Jimin was already sick of this guy and they'd only known each other for all of five minutes."I can carry him" Jungkook raised an eyebrow mockingly."Hmmm can you be trusted? I mean, you were about to slit his throat open a moment ago" Jimin felt his blood boil at those words and balled his hands into fists."Listen kid-""Jimin it's okay...just let him do it" Jimin stared Taehyung down in disbelief."Tae-""The man has spoken" Jungkook clicked his tongue as he pushed past Jimin and crouched beside Taehyung."Hey there" Taehyung didn't meet his eyes and opted for down at his lap."How are we going to do this?""Easy" Jungkook didn't ask before scooping Taehyung into his arms - Tae instinctively wrapping his arms around Jungkook's neck for support. Jungkook chuckled as Taehyung let out a small squeak at the sudden movement and Jimin felt his patience wear thin when he noticed Jungkook not-to-subtly grope Taehyung's thigh as he shifted the injured boy in his hold. Jin, oblivious to the tension, clapped his hands and grinned at the new members of their little group."Right! I think we should get moving; don't want to be hanging around here when the sun goes down" The others nodded in agreement and cast wary glances to the orange sky above them.It had already gotten darker by the time they got themselves sorted and moving at a gentle pace. Jungkook - with Taehyung now clinging to his back - lead the group with Hoseok's machete, feeling very comfortable and not at all nervous as the shadows began to emerge and the light began to fade. Why should he be nervous, after all? He had a weapon and four other guys with him - he'd survived on his own easily enough...this was a perfect situation.Jin followed closely behind Jungkook carrying most of the trio's luggage; which consisted of two backpacks and a carry-on bag that clinked everytime Jin moved. His nerves were getting the better of him - he had never liked the darkness and knowing that there were real monsters lurking only heightened his fear. Jin kept a calm facade, though, and pushed through his fear knowing that hesitation would only get him and the others killed.That left Jimin and Hoseok trailing behind, Jimin slightly ahead.Jimin was keeping his eyes focused solely on Jungkook and Taehyung making sure Jungkook's hand didn't 'slip' like he had insisted it had earlier when Jimin brought the subject up. He carried the bag that held his and Taehyung's supplies with his faithful sledgehammer slung over one shoulder (the others were still amazed someone so small could carry something so heavy with ease).And while Jimin was watching Jungkook, Hoseok was watching Jimin.The redhead had caught Hoseok's eyes the moment he saw him and was amused at how the little man squared up to Jungkook to defend his friend. In short; Hoseok was intrigued by the younger.This lead him to take a few larger steps to catch up to Jimin, who didn't react to the older's closer proximity."You and Taehyung are close""We are""Best friend?" The mocking tone came naturally to Hoseok who knew far too well that the 'bond' between friends didn't mean shit anymore; the world had changed, and this fact - to Hoseok at least - was proven by Jimin's earlier actions."Boyfriend, actually" Hoseok barked out a harsh laugh - Jin looking over his shoulder to see what was happening. When he saw nothing alarming he turned to face the front again."Boyfriend? That won't last long. Not out here anyway...If I were you I'd ditch the deadweight. You look like a survivor, Jimin, and from the bottom of my heart I hope you take my advice...because Taehyung is surely going to get you killed" Jimin's jaw tensed."From the bottom of my heart; I don't give a fuck" Hoseok stared, astonished, as Jimin quickened his pace to walk beside Jin who happily accepted the company and began babbling away about random, useless things.Hoseok continued to watch Jimin.
Boyfriend, huh? Shame...those thighs are to die for
☣ meanwhile ☣ "How far away are we now?" The man exhaled a cloud of smoke before flicking the cigarette to the ground and stamping out the excess.
"We'll be there in time, don't worry" The taller let out an aggravated sigh and stared his companion down.
"We better be" The shorter raised an eyebrow in question at the tone used and leaned forward from his seated position.
"Is that a threat?" The two stared at each other for a moment before the taller looked away.
"Of course not..." The shorter gave a triumphant smile and patted his companion's leg before lying on his side - a torn coat being used as a makeshift blanket.
"Good...because I won't stand for that crap"
"I know..."
"I mean it. I'll leave your ass. You wouldn't survive a day without me"
"I know..." The shorter closed his eyes completely trusting the taller to stay awake and keep watch. It was a routine they had; he would sleep first half way through the night while the other kept watch before switching. It was efficient, it was safe.
"Hey - I love you"
"...I know..."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Fuck we're gonna miss it!" Namjoon vaulted the wall dragging his other half behind him with a tight grip on the man's wrist. They had both fallen asleep (thankfully noone got bitten during the night) and they had overslept...a lot."Dammit, Joon, slow down!" Yoongi was scrambling to keep up as he was dragged through the streets and was starting to lose his grip on their backpack."We can't be late, Yoongi. We can't" Namjoon's desperate whine encouraged Yoongi to pick up the pace and he just about managed to stay beside Namjoon.Namjoon slowed when he caught sight of a battered, run-down military truck ahead with a small group of people gathered around. Both men felt a glimmer of hope surface as they ran to the truck. When they reached the vehicle Yoongi took the lead and moved in front of Namjoon effectively shoving others out the way to reach the obvious leaders: three men in full combat gear, each cradling a gun to their side."Hey! Watch it!" Yoongi ignored the shout eager to press on only to be pulled back by a hand on his shoulder. The blonde was spun around and was met by a very pissed off man."Apologize" Yoongi shook off the hand and mirrored the man's scowl, Namjoon standing awkwardly behind him and praying for no conflict."For what?" The man narrowed his eyes."For shoving my friend" Yoongi then noticed the man was with a group who were now gathered around him to see what had happened. Yoongi, however, wasn't intimidated."Tch. I'm not your friend" A man with bright red hair declared. Yoongi smirked."He's not your friend" Yoongi shrugged. The man who grabbed him growled and took a step closer only for a taller, broader man to quickly step between the two.He looked as anxious as Namjoon felt and not so subtly pushed his friend backwards behind him."Look we don't want any trouble here. Just control your friend and I'll do the same, yeah?"Namjoon nodded quickly and grabbed Yoongi's hand."C'mon babe let's go" Yoongi was prepared to continue the argument - out of stubbornness - but was quickly silenced when a loud banging noise rang through the crowd. Every head turned to the direction of the truck where a man was now stood on the roof with a baseball bat pressed to a dent in the metal.The man's tongue could be seen, through his grin, running across his canines as he eyeballed the crowd - his blonde hair becoming dishelved in the breeze. Once he was sure he had the small crowd's attention he faced his companions - the 'leader' giving a small wave to the impatient onlookers."Right! I'm sure you're all anxious to get a seat but please don't push and shove! There's room for everyone inside the truck! So make a line and we'll get you settled"The third man made a show of checking his wristwatch before scowling at the crowd."We depart in ten minutes!" A light murmur washed through the crowd as people reluctantly complied and formed a crooked line. The first man jumped down from the roof with ease and twirled the bat around his hand as he joined his friends."How many do you think there are today, eh?" The leader shrugged, indifferent, as he readjusted his cap."Twelve? Fifteen?" The third whistled in approval and raised an eyebrow in thought."Damn...that's a lot of people in one go" The leader nodded in agreement."Yup, and the quicker we get them to safe haven the better..." The leader suddenly clapped his hands together and turned to the blonde beside him, nodding towards the back of the truck."Ready when you are, Mark" The blonde rolled his shoulders back and mock saluted as he climbed into the truck, dragging his baseball bat behind him. The leader then addressed the third man presenting him with a half smile."You ready, Bam'?" The man nodded, clutching his gun a little tighter as his friend moved away from him.It didn't take long to herd the survivors into the truck and within a few minutes the majority were happily seated within the vehicle. Only four men were left to climb in.The leader was about to help the next guy inside when he felt something tap against his thigh. He looked down to see Mark's bat at his leg and sent a questioning look to the blonde - who had his eyes focused ahead of him."Jackson..." Jackson spotted a small handful of zombies stumbling closer to their group, however he wasn't worried - at least three of them had loaded guns and there were more than enough people to handle some stragglers. Jackson smirked and rolled his eyes as he grabbed Jimin's hand and hoisted him up and into the truck."We'll be gone before they can reach us, relax" BamBam joined the two and stood on Jackson's other side, chewing his lip as more zombies appeared - these ones moving faster."I think we should go...Jackson, I think we should go now" BamBam's voice held a worried tone and Mark nodded in agreement."Yeah, those things are getting too close. If they decide to bolt then we might lose people" Jackson watched the zombies, noted their pace, and reluctantly nodded.He leant forward to help the others inside when the small handful of undead suddenly separated and began running full speed towards the truck - the scent of humans urging them to move faster. Jackson cursed under his breath and aimed his gun, Mark trying to drag the remaining survivors inside. As the hoard got closer by the second Jackson knew they had no time. They had to leave."Start the engine! Get this thing moving!" BamBam scrambled to the front of the truck and turned the keys, the vehicle spluttering as it stalled. BamBam groaned as he begged the truck to start, to move, to do something and all he got in return was the unhealthy grumble and clatter of a stalled engine. BamBam slammed his hands against the wheel as Mark poked his head around the opening, eager to see why they weren't speeding away from the oncoming danger."This piece of shit won't start!" Mark released a sigh of frustration and he grabbed onto BamBam's shoulder, pulling him from his seat and taking the smaller boy's place. He slid into the driver's seat and pointed his thumb over his shoulder."Go help Jackson" BamBam didn't need to be told twice and returned to the back of the truck where people had begun to notice the zombies.Jimin stood as BamBam walked by and followed him to where Jackson stood, gun still aimed but not fired. Jimin gulped at the size of the hoard and ran a hand through his hair."Give me a gun and I'll help" Jackson eyed the red head before his gaze wandered over to BamBam. The two shared a look before the younger shook his head slowly."Don't have a gun spare...if you want to help you can-"The car suddenly lurched forward and everyone scrambled to cling onto something as the truck came to life, wheels screeching sharply against the concrete as it tried to keep up with Mark's orders. As the vehicle moved unexpectedly BamBam was thrown backwards, his head making a painful-sounding crack against the interior while Jackson was grabbed from behind - preventing him from falling face first out of the truck.Jimin wasn't so lucky.Jimin squealed as his hands flailed, trying to latch onto something, only for his fingers to pass through thin air. The sudden movement had jolted him and caused him to stumble forward unwillingly until he found himself falling. He awaited the impact of the ground knowing there was nothing he could do to prevent it when he felt a hand grab onto his leg - stopping him from completely falling.He curled his upper body in on himself and, thankfully, his shoulders and back took most of the fall - his head staying high enough to not get cracked open on the concrete. His screams of pain rang through the city as his clothing was easily torn to shreds against the rough terrain and Jimin felt himself go lightheaded as debris lodged itself into his torn flesh."Someone help me! Quick!" Namjoon panicked as he felt Jimin slip through his hand as his body was roughly dragged behind the truck and the elder knew he couldn't hold on for much longer.Taehyung tried to stand only to have Jungkook pull him back down reminding the older of his damaged ankle. Taehyung whimpered at the trail of blood Jimin left behind him and began shaking out of fear.Jackson also noticed the blood trail and growled as he shakily returned to his position and gripped onto the edge of the truck."Let him go, kid! He'll lead the hoard to us!"Namjoon considered releasing Jimin for a split second, but the red head's terrified expression snapped him out of his thoughts and had him shaking his head furiously."I can't leave him behind!" Jackson grabbed onto Namjoon's collar and Yoongi stood up on wobbly legs. Jackson brought his face close to Namjoon's."Leave him behind or you can join him"Before Namjoon could even think of a response, Jackson was yanked backwards and away from the stressed man. Yoongi glared at Jackson as he got back on his feet and stood protectively in front of Namjoon."You do not touch what is mine" Anyone else would have easily been intimidated by Yoongi's deep growl. Jackson, however, was not one of those people.He clenched his teeth as he pointed his still loaded gun at the blonde - the other passengers making sounds of alarm."Don't make me do this" Yoongi's eyes widened slightly as he stared down the barrel of the gun and he began to rethink his choices when something hard struck Yoongi - whose vision immediately blurred.BamBam screeched in anger as Namjoon helplessly grabbed at Yoongi's slumping figure, Jin rushing to hold onto the unconscious body before it, too, slid from the truck. BamBam pointed the baseball bat to Jackson - a trickle of blood running down his face from his temple."Fuck this shit, Wang! It's not worth it! Just get rid of them!" And then all chatter and noise died down.BamBam began to advance menacingly upon Namjoon and Jin while Jackson moved towards Hoseok, Jungkook and Taehyung. Within seconds BamBam had kicked the two males from the truck and helped Jackson drag the remaining three to the edge. Taehyung and Jungkook were easy enough to remove, however Hoseok put up a fight. He was thrown from the truck leaving Jackson with a broken nose and BamBam with a few dislodged teeth.As the truck drove away five of the boys immediately dragged themselves to their feet in an attempt to chase after it. When they realised it was too late, however, they slowed to a drunken stumble - Namjoon even vomiting from the pain and anxiety.When they had regained their breaths the group looked behind them at the two boys they had left behind.Taehyung was crawling army-style across the dirt road to an unconscious Jimin, crying out the boy's name as he reached out to touch him. Jin was the first to go back and he felt his stomach turn at the blood pooling beneathe Jimin and how pale the boy had become. He looked at Taehyung also and noticed his injured foot was now stuck at a painful ankle and guessed the foot was now well and truly broken.The eldest scanned the surrounding area and, when he found no danger, sat back on his heels.This hadn't been the plan.They should be heading to safe haven now.Their bags are still on the truck.They have no food, water or weapons.Two of their men are severely injured. "We're fucked"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"P-please don't do this!" Jin shook his head slowly as he advanced on Taehyung who sat protectively beside Jimin."There's no other option...the smell will be horrendous in a few hours...it's the only way..." Taehyung whimpered as Jin threw the makeshift shovel at his feet and looked up to the blonde with pleading eyes."Don't make me do this..." Jin scoffed."It's your responsibility so deal with it!" Taehyung eyed Jimin's motionless body and Jin finally had enough - reaching forward and dragging Taehyung to his feet with a surprised grunt. Jin suddenly remembered the boy's wounded foot and quickly supported his weight as best he could while muttering an apology."I'll carry you if you want...but I am not digging out a ditch for you" Taehyung shifted uncomfortably as a deep blush set into his cheeks - causing Jungkook to coo as the pair slowly stumbled by."Look can we just not talk about this...please?" Jin sighed but nodded, agreeing.It had been a few hours since the incident involving the truck and the group had made little progress; two of their members couldn't walk (one refusing to wake up). When the hoard became visible on the horizon the group knew it was time to move - even if it meant leaving the injured behind...but that hadn't been needed. Jungkook was more than happy to carry Taehyung while Namjoon hesitantly - and very gently - carried an unconscious Jimin. The group had all agreed to seek shelter in an abandoned-looking cabin and the group had settled down in their respective groups, in peace...until another problem arose; Taehyung needed to use the bathroom.Hoseok rolled his eyes as he watched Jin and Taehyung hobble out of the room and immediately his gaze wandered to the unconscious boy that had been placed in the corner. Hoseok didn't like seeing so much blood spill and pool from the wound at his head and hadn't liked the unresponsive coma the boy seemed to have put himself in.
"He won't survive like this, you know. If he doesn't wake up then we need to think about-"
"C'mon, Jinnie, don't be like that. Give the kid a chance" Jin stared incredulously at the usually hostile male and felt a migraine begin to set in.
"You actually want to help him now? After you were so adamant that we should abandon him?" Hoseok rolled his eyes and couldn't stop himself from watching as Jimin's head hung back over Namjoon's arm - feeling a prickle of irritation at the carelessness of the newcomer.
"We already saved them once...If we let one of them die now then what would be the point? I wasted a lot for these little shits - I'm not going to let one of them die now" Jin was left speechless at the sudden change in character and watched on with inquisitive eyes as Hoseok petulantly took Jimin from Namjoon and corrected the hold - supporting the smaller boy's head and holding him close.
Hoseok smirked as he sat beside the unconscious boy and replayed the conversation in his head."We're in deep shit because of you...and you think you can just sleep it all away?" His whispered words went unheard by the other three in the room."You better wake up soon, little one; this wasn't part of the deal. We should be on our way to Safe Haven by now - not stranded in the middle of nowhere babysitting you and that child-""Hyung" Hoseok leaned away as Jungkook sat beside him."Don't you think you're being a bit harsh? It's not completely his fault all this happened""Tch what does it matter? Not like he can her any of this" Jungkook looked thoughtfully at Jimin and brushed a strand of red hair from his face - pouting slightly as dried blood flaked onto his fingers from the action."It's actually been proven, in some circumstances, that coma patients can hear you...and Jimin may not even be that far gone yet. It's only been a few hours..." Hoseok hummed, not knowing what else to say."So...Taehyung?" Jungkook smirked and raised an eyebrow."So...Jimin?" Hoseok scowled."Jimin has a nice ass and I haven't had any in months" Jungkook scoffed and ran a hand through his hair as he cracked his neck."Rude. Do I not count then?""No - a half-assed blowjob while Jin sleeps doesn't count" Jungkook wasn't offended and just shrugged. It had been an awkward night for the both of them and they were more than happy to not bring the subject up again."Taehyung...is cute" Hoseok nodded."It's a shame they're dating; Taehyung and Jimin" Jungkook's eyes widened and he frowned at Hoseok."They are?""You're smart, Jungkook...don't play dumb" Jungkook hummed and stared at Jimin with a new perspective."...I don't think they look good together" Hoseok almost smiled at the childish comment."No? Well...what are you going to do about it?" Jungkook chewed his lip and looked around them. Yoongi and Namjoon were in the middle of their own discussion - ignoring the scheming pair across from them."Maybe we should expand their options..." The boys shared a look as a wicked grin slowly appeared on the elder's face."See, I knew you were smart".......... "This is your fault!" Namjoon flinched as Yoongi tried to contain his anger and felt fear turn his stomach. Yoongi was right, as always; if he hadn't of tried saving that guy then they would likely be in Safe Haven by now. Namjoon felt guilty for causing this...but he didn't regret it - he couldn't just sit back and let the redhead fall to his death. Yoongi didn't share his belief."I'm sorry...it won't happen again" Yoongi growled and grabbed Namjoon's chin, forcing the larger man to look at him."Too fucking right it won't. Do you know what you've done, huh? Do you?! Because of you we have no food, no water, no weapons...how are we going to get to Safe Haven? How are we going to survive?" With each word Yoongi's grip became tighter, though Namjoon didn't react - too used to the rough treatment by now. The younger of the two lowered his gaze."I'll do whatever I can to make this right, hyung. I promise...I-I'll replace what we lost" Yoongi released Namjoon with a spiteful laugh and sat back against the wall."How are you going to do that, huh? You're no thief, Namjoon, and you can't raid for shit. There's only one thing you're good for and even that's a stretch..." Namjoon lowered his head as Yoongi spoke and his fingers gripped onto the edge of his sleeves."I said I'd make it right, Yoongi""Make what right?" Both boy's looked up to see Jin stood behind them - Taehyung easing himself to the floor. Jin looked between them - a small frown appearing as his eyes lingered on Yoongi a few seconds longer."I didn't know you were part of this conversation" Jin raised an eyebrow, unimpressed."You want a private conversation you can go outside" Jin turned to give Namjoon his attention then and gave the younger a softer smile. He had, of course, heard most of the conversation and didn't like the way the small blonde had spoken to his companion. Jin knew it wasn't his business how the pair's relationship worked but he knew better than to turn a blind eye."I'm heading out to scan the area before it gets too dark...did you want to join me?" Jin didn't like the way Namjoon looked to Yoongi for permission before speaking."I guess..." Jin offered his hand and Namjoon took it hesitantly, allowing Jin to help him to his feet."We'll be okay; if we see a zombie just scream and Hobi will protect us" Jin gave a wide grin, which was soon quickly removed when Hoseok walked past."The fuck? No I won't" Jin wrinkled his nose and stuck his tongue out to Hoseok's back before smiling sheepishly at Namjoon."Ignore him he's on his period...constantly" A small smile crept onto Namjoon's face and Jin felt accomplished that he had made such a shy, hesitant person smile."But seriously don't worry about the zombies there shouldn't be any around here" Jin lead them to the partially barricaded front door and opened it up, sticking his head out to quickly survey the area.Namjoon took in the blonde's words before looking over his shoulder. Yoongi's eyes were focused on him and he felt a shiver run down his spine.He wasn't worried about the zombies...
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Jimin suppressed a groan as he pulled himself to his feet and clung desperately to the wall. It took a moment for his eyes to regain focus and when they did Jimin felt his chest tighten as his heart almost constricted.In one corner of the room Taehyung lay, curled into himself, with a heavily bandaged foot. His fingers twitched in his sleep and gripped every so often onto the rough material beneath him. Jimin scowled as Jungkook snored softly with Taehyung's head resting on his thighs and Jimin felt a stab of jealousy; why wasn't Tae with him?Across the room Jimin could make out the figures of Jin, Hoseok and the two strangers in varying positions as they slept - Hoseok obviously isolating himself from the group as best he could.Jimin's eyes surveyed the room and a small frown appeared when he realised how bare the room really was: a few chairs, some stray rags and that was pretty much it. The redhead pursed his lips as he gingerly stepped deeper into the dark room. He paused, however, when his foot sank ever so slightly into one of the many floorboards below. Jimin looked down and applied more pressure - the floorboard bending a little more.Jimin moved back a step and dropped to a crouch before dragging his nails along the worn wood, catching on the edge of the floorboard. Jimin took his time - wary of waking the others - as he wiggled and encouraged the plank of wood to lift and, to his surprise, it didn't take much to remove the loose board. After placing it to the side Jimin peered into the narrow gap in the floor."No way..." Jimin breathed out as he leaned forward and retrieved the (rather dusty) short-barrel shotgun. Jimin rang his fingers appreciatively over the barrel before checking the ammo, hissing at the click that echoed through the room.Empty.Jimin sighed in disappointment but shrugged - an empty gun was still better than no gun at all. His fingers once again disappeared into the darkness below and Jimin's breath faltered as he came into contact with another object. A breathy laugh of disbelief fell as he pulled out a small box that rattled with loose shells. Jimin stared at the box for a moment before lowering himself fully and sitting on the floor with the gun resting between his open legs. He began counting out the shells out in his head, completely oblivious to the curious eyes watching him."Jimin?" Jimin's head snapped up to find Hoseok watching him intently, eyes locking onto the gun before moving slowly back up to meet Jimin's. The redhead didn't hesitate before grabbing the gun and raising it defensively - only to have Hoseok sigh deeply, as if the whole encounter was tiring. "That thing isn't even loaded, kid" Jimin bristled and Hoseok slowly got to his feet, nodding his head towards the younger."I could show you how to use it, if you want? It's not hard to do if you know what you're doing""I know what I'm doing. I found it - the gun is mine""You can keep the damn gun I just don't want you blowing my head off when you try and use it!"Hoseok reached out and Jimin allowed him to pull the gun from his hands, reluctantly giving away the one piece of protection he had. Hoseok examined the gun for a moment before nodding towards the shells Jimin had been counting out. "Grab those and follow me"Jimin stood shakily and grabbed the small box. A dull pressure had begun to make itself known at the back of his head and as he followed Hoseok through the doorway he began to feel the aches and pains that falling from a moving vehicle left behind. The pair crept silently through the surrounding woods for a minute or two before stopping - Hoseok gesturing for Jimin to stay quiet with a finger to his own lips.Hoseok held the gun between them."First off; you need to know how to load the damn thing properly. Then I'm gonna show you how to hold it so you don't hurt yourself when it goes off. If you can do those things without fucking up I might just let you test your aim" Jimin scowled at Hoseok's whispered words but nodded and allowed Hoseok to show him how to load and hold the shotgun correctly - observing with mild interest as Hoseok became more lively with the weapon in hand. After repeating the steps a few more times Jimin was finally allowed to show he had been listening and successfully loaded and aimed the gun - directly at Hoseok."This feels familiar..."Jimin considered firing for a moment, really considered it, and smirked down the barrels."My aim is pretty good...wanna test it?" Jimin had barely got the words out before the gun was forced upwards and pulled from his hands roughly, the stock being forced down into Jimin's shoulder and forcing him to the ground with a surprised grunt of pain. Hoseok regained his bored expression as he stood over Jimin and rested the gun against his shoulder lazily. "Are you done? Or are you still trying to prove your the alpha dog here?"Jimin hissed as he sat up on his elbows and glared at Hoseok. The dark haired male raised an eyebrow in question and clicked his tongue, gesturing over his shoulder."Look, kid, as fun as this is I gotta call it quits. It's gonna be tough enough trying to make it to Haven without having to keep looking over my shoulder and I'm sure you feel the same way...so how about we stop this now? You stop trying to blow holes into me and I won't beat the shit out of you, okay?"Jimin wanted to argue that no, it was not okay but he knew he had no choice - Hoseok was right. Now that he had stopped for a moment his body had caught up with him and he felt pain spread across his back, his head, and knew that Hoseok would destroy him if he really tried anything. Jimin couldn't risk it."Fine..."Hoseok grinned and took a few steps backwards, giving Jimin enough room to stand without feeling crowded. When the redhead was on his feet [wobbly, unstable] Hoseok crooked a finger and beckoned him forward."Let's get you back...wouldn't want you collapsing out here"
mwahaha I did a thing and can show the cover for the fic