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ilikereadingthisiswhatilike · 1 year ago

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IF THERE IS A GOD, IT'S ME Part 1

Parings: Cult Leader!Ellie x Reader Warnings: Manipulation Special Tags: Cult AU Word Count: 8.2k

Notes: Reader is Bi in this story. The story is based on the song IF THERE IS A GOD, IT'S ME by PLVTINUM. I recommend listing to the song. You can find it here.

Summary: Ellie becomes extremely upset after discovering the truth about Joel's auctions in Salt Lake City. She knew she could never see Joel again. Ellie left Joel and Jackson behind to find her place in the world. Ellie returned to the only place she knew before Joel, Boston. However, Boston was far from a welcoming refuge. Instead, She ventured into the unclaimed territories of New England to build a community akin to Jackson. As her community slowly took shape, people began to gravitate toward her, captivated by her strength and immunity. When people see that Ellie is the only immune person in the world, they believe she is a prophet. They wholeheartedly chose to believe they were placed on this Earth by a higher power. They looked to her for guidance and solace in the world. Ellie's biggest fear is to lose the people she loves. What Joel did killed him in her eyes. Now, she is traumatized and is very strict with the people in the town. Ellie deeply loves each member of her community. She loves them in a very dark way. Ellie found herself drawn to one person in particular.

(Eillie is a cult leader who likes readers more than she should.)

You awoke to the biting cold of the early morning air. Outside, the early morning darkness clings to the world. You lay in a comfy cocoon of thick wool. A part of you hesitated to leave the warmth of your bed. Every breath forms cute little puffy clouds in the frigid air. A quiet groan escaped your lips as you thought about inevitably departing from this cozy sanctuary. You nestled more deeply into the soft embrace of the blanket. You lay there listening to the world stirring around you. Downstairs, you heard the faint sounds of your mother making breakfast. You also could smell the very distinct scent of breakfast. Your ears picked up the sound of your father reading himself for another day. They also picked up on the sound beyond the walls of your home. You could hear the faint chatter of your neighbors rising from the dead. You could listen to your neighbors groaning about having to wake up early. They also complain about the cold, frigid air. Every part of you wishes you could linger in the comfort of your bed a little longer. Sadly, you have too many responsibilities. With regret, you gave the blanket one final affectionate nuzzle before leaving the blanket's warmth behind. As you rise from bed, an exhausted sigh escapes your lips. There was no escaping your responsibilities.

You slowly rose out of bed and into a standing position. Your socks landed on the wooden floor below. Once standing, you quickly remove your pajamas. Next, you promptly slipped on your day clothes. Your outfit of choice was a pair of jeans and a cozy flannel shirt. Today, you dressed for the cold day ahead. Once you finished getting dressed, you decided to indulge in breakfast.

Before you descended the stairs, you decided to grab your well-worn backpack and jacket in hand. Once you collected your belongings, you dropped the stairs. Each wooden step groaned under your weight.

Once you were in the first room, you headed to the kitchen. Upon entering the kitchen, the scent of breakfast greeted you. You expected to find your mother tending to the stove. However, to your surprise, your parents were already seated at the kitchenette. They were in the process of consuming scrambled eggs and ham. Their faces shined in the warm glow of the morning sun streaming through the window. They were both engaged in a soft conversation. It created a scene of domestic bliss that captivated you.

"Good morning, my darling daughter," your father greeted you with a smile as he noticed your presence. You approached them, embracing them both with affectionate kisses.

"Morning," you replied softly, your voice still carrying the remnants of sleep. You moved to the stove to serve yourself a plate of the piece of the breakfast your lovely mother prepared. Once you received your portion, you quickly moved to the kitchenette. Once you settled into your seat, you began to eat. At the exact moment, you felt your mother playfully nudged your shin with her foot.

"Don't forget your morning prayer, dear," she reminded you. Her voice had a very gentle tone to it. "Remember to thank Ms. Williams and God for this meal. Without them, none of this would be possible."

Your father nodded in agreement. "We raised you better than that," he affirmed with a warm smile.

You offered an apologetic look. "I apologize, Mother. I was just excited to enjoy this wonderful breakfast," you replied softly before bowing your head in silent prayer. You prayed to God thanks for the meal before you. You also thanked God for his gift, named Ellie Williams.

Ever since you were young, your parents were religious. God and religion were cornerstones of your parents' beliefs. When you were growing up in a nearby QZ, your family participated in the local religious community. The three of you would attend different religious events together. You remember watching your parents pray before God for hours. During these prayer sessions, they would beg for more food on the table or for the aging house to remain standing. Every day, your family lives in a godly way. One of the few books your family read was a religious text. Your mother read it so much that it was pivotal in your education. Your mother used the book to teach you to read and write through its religious passages. You grew up practicing these passages so much you could recite them from memory.

God was so ingrained in your nature that you should never question God. Even on the worst day of your life, the day that the QZ fell.

FEDRA had become more oppressive than ever in the years leading up to the QZ downfall. Due to the lack of resources, FEDRA decided to work with everyone over time. The QZ citizens were subjected to grueling double shifts for meager pay. Even with everyone's hard work, there still needed to be more food and clean water. At the same time, there was a crackdown on smuggling by FEDRA. Both events caused the masses to grow visibly more angry. With the only alternative source of goods cut off, they gained a monopoly on essential goods. FEDRA raised prices, making most people's meager savings dwell faster. The lack of supplies also forced you to buy them at a high expense or die. FEDRA also started taking any form of restrictions seriously. They began to give people death sentences for the slightest infraction. People started to fear for their lives. There was a feeling of dread loaning over the city. Everyone sensed that the QZ's days were numbered. People could only speculate about when everything would fall apart. The only thing people could do was for the transition to be peaceful.

When the day of revoking came, it was everyone's worst nightmare. That day, QZ all around you descended into chaos. The sounds of screams and gunshots filled the air. Soon, every inch of the QZ became a war zone. People turned on each other for survival. People murdered one another for dwindling supplies. Some people use the fact that the world is crumbling to act on their dark desires. Gangs tore through the QZ, leaving destruction in their wake. The streets were littered with lifeless bodies when it was all said and done.

It was only by the grace of God you and your family were able to escape the walls of the QZ.

Your family struggled to build a new life outside the QZ walls. In your escape, your family could only grab essential supplies, like food and bandages. Even with rationing, the supplies only lasted about a week and a half. Supplies were scarce outside, meaning you spent much time searching for more. Infected were an ever-present threat, making you quickly learn to avoid them. Things worsened when the different gangs from the QZ started to venture outside the walls. Different groups scramble for territories and resources. People who dared enter the group's land were shot on sight. Between the gangs and the infected, staying in one spot for over a week was unsafe. Your existence became transient, moving from one place to another. The constant fear that each day could be your last weighed heavily on you.

Every night, you pray to God for salvation.

Then, one fateful day, it seemed God answered your prayers.

While scavenging for supplies, you encounter a group of survivors. You did your best to stay away from them just to be safe. However, God had other plans. While searching for a house for supplies, you came across a bloater. You knew you would not survive a fight with said bloater. Instead, you chose to run with the bloater hot on your trail. While trying to escape, the bloater ran straight into the group. They quickly acted and destroyed the boater's body with their weapons. The group also chose not to kill you even though you led a bloater right to them.

Once all the commotion settled down, the group's leader talked to you. The leader explained they were looking for a settlement in the area. The town they were looking for was rumored to be a paradise. According to the rumors, this town had abundant food and impenetrable walls. You told them that no settlement existed in the area. The moment the words left your lips, some members were frustrated. You could only guess how long and far they have been traveling. You could tell that every group member was exhausted and losing hope.

You offer them to stay the night at your family's makeshift camp in exchange for saving you. That evening, everyone shared a meal and stories over a crackling fire. You learned more about the group and their journey across the wilderness. Even though they had been walking for some time, they only lost a few people. By nightfall, you and your family decided to join this group on their journey. It was a risky gamble, but you had little left to lose. You would only last a little longer with how things look around here. So, the following day, you packed up what little you had left and left behind the only place you'd ever known.

The gamble paid off when, three days later, you arrived in paradise. The sight that greeted your eyes was unlike anything you had ever experienced. The town, bathed in the gentle glow of the sun, took on an otherworldly beauty. Nestled on the shore, it seemed like a jewel perched on the world's edge. The outer perimeter wall surrounding the town was as massive as the rumors had claimed. So vast that it cast a shadow that stretched over the land. This structure gave an impression of both safety and grandeur. The wall showed the effort the town put into its preservation.

The sight behind the walls left you even more breathless. Rows of lush greenhouses stretched before you, their glass surfaces reflecting the sunlight in a dazzling display of colors. Inside, these greenhouses were vibrant with life in contrast to the acrid stench of decay you had grown accustomed to. The stock houses were brimming with supplies that had been collected meticulously. The stock houses were also neatly organized from floor to ceiling. Storefronts lined the cobbled streets, each one stocked with homemade goods. The shelves were adorned with crafts, fresh produce, and other treasures. Here, the fruits of labor are shared among neighbors.

It wasn't just the abundance of stuff that struck you; it promised a new beginning and hope for a brighter future. Children's laughter filled the air as they played in the streets without a care. Older adults sat on their porches and enjoyed the evening air. For the first time, you saw people with disabilities fully integrated into the community, living life to the fullest. Everyone in town was thriving instead of merely surviving.

Ultimately, God answered your prayers and delivered you and your family a sanctuary.

A sudden knock at the front door disrupted your morning meal. You sprang from your seat before anyone else had a chance to react. "I'll get the door," you announced.

With purposeful steps, you made your way to the front entrance. Arriving at the door, you braced yourself for the frigid bite of the cold air on the other side before you swung the door open. The morning light momentarily blinded your eyes. Once your eyes refocus, a familiar face greeted you on the other side – Alexander.

Alexander had been your next-door neighbor and closest friend in town since the day you arrived. From the moment you set foot in the community, he had gone above and beyond to make you feel welcome. Alexander eagerly took it upon himself to be your guide, offering to give you a tour of the small coastal town. As the two of you walked, he spoke about days long past. Alexander explained that this town had once been a thriving tourist destination, drawing thousands worldwide. But then came "outbreak day," plunging the world into chaos. Fortunately, at that time, the town had been in its off-season, its population reduced to just a handful of residents. This twist of fate had left the town miraculously untouched by the world's destruction.

During the tour, Alexander's warm smile and charismatic personality enveloped you. He constantly flirted with you playfully, making your heart flutter with every charming word and teasing gesture. Over time, as your friendship deepened, you couldn't help but develop a crush on him. There were days when you thought his feelings might mirror your own, but it was hard to discern the truth.

The sound of Alexander talking pulled you out of your thoughts. "Hey, good morning," he greeted. He was leaning casually against the door-frame, his smile radiating warmth.

"Hey, Alexander," you replied warmly, your voice tinged with a hint of affection. "What can I do for you this morning?"

Before Alexander could respond, your father approached from behind and interjected, concern evident in his voice. "Who's at the door?"

You offered a sheepish smile to Alexander before turning to your father. "Father, it is Alexander."

"Why don't you invite him in? It's better than leaving the door open. It's hard enough to keep this house warm as it is." Your father's gruff voice carried through the hallway, making him sound louder than he was.

You gave him a firm nod before turning to address Alexander. "How about we continue our conversation inside? You can warm up a little." Stepping out of the doorway, allowing Alexander to enter the house. You quickly closed the door behind him.

"Alexander," your father's voice was friendly. "How are you? How is your mother doing?"

"Hello, Sir," Alexander greeted your father, extending his hand for a friendly handshake. "We're both doing well. She'll be helping out at the family supper tonight."

Your father let out a hearty laugh. "That's great to hear. So, if you don't mind me asking, what brings you here this morning?"

Alexander looked over at you with a hopeful look in his eyes. "I was hoping I could accompany you on your morning walk to work."

His request caught you off guard, and you felt a blush creeping onto your cheeks as you struggled to find the right words. Fortunately, your father noticed your hesitation and came to the rescue. "That sounds like a wonderful idea," he chimed in with an encouraging smile.

You nodded in agreement, managing to find your voice. "Let me grab my things, and we can head out," you said softly to Alexander. You returned to the kitchen to retrieve your jacket and bag. Before leaving, you leaned down to give your mother an affectionate kiss on the head. "I'm heading out, Ma."

She placed a gentle hand on your wrist, her eyes filled with warmth. "Be safe, dear. And ask that boy on a date already. I'm not getting any younger and want to meet my grandbabies." Her words were filled with love and humor, leaving you with a smile.

Before leaving for the day, you gave your father an affectionate kiss on the head. "I'm heading out. I'll see you at the communal diner," you told him with a smile. With those words, you stepped out into the crisp, cold outdoor air, and Alexander followed closely behind.

An awkward silence enveloped both of you as you embarked on your walk. For several minutes, neither of you seemed to know what to talk about, the quiet punctuated only by the rhythmic sounds of your footsteps. Alexander was the first to speak, breaking the awkward silence. His words caught you off guard. "You look beautiful today," he said with a warm and genuine smile.

His compliment made your cheeks flush even warmer, and you returned the gesture with a sincere smile. "Thank you," you replied, feeling a pleasant flutter in your chest. "You're quite handsome yourself." Playfully, you bumped into his arm, and the shared laughter eased your awkwardness. The walk suddenly felt lighter as a more comfortable and enjoyable conversation ensued between you.

As you arrived at the school where you worked, you paused before the building's entryway to bid Alexander a good day. However, it seemed Alexander had one last surprise in store for you. Just as you were about to enter, his hand gently wrapped around your wrist, causing you to stop. "Wait!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with anticipation. "Before you go, I wanted to ask you something."

The air was thick with curiosity and a sense of the unknown as you turned to face him, wondering what he had in store. "What is it?"

"Would you go on a date with me?" At that moment, as the words hung in the air, time seemed to stand still. You looked into Alexander's eyes.

A soft smile graced your lips as your heart swelled with joy. "Yes," you replied, your voice filled with warmth and happiness. "I would love to go on a date with you."

Before either of you could continue the conversion, you became aware of another person's presence. Ellie Williams, the most influential figure in town, stood in the school doorway. Her piercing gaze fixed upon you and Alexander. Her presence's weight was palpable, leaving you both momentarily speechless.

"Alexander, I believe the morning patrol shift starts soon. You better get going. You do not want to be late." Ellie's words broke the tension, but her tone was icy, and it was evident that she held some authority over Alexander.

He nodded quickly, seeming slightly uneasy. "Yes, you're right. I am sorry, ma'am," he replied, glancing at you apologetically. "I better get going. I'll see you later." There was a hint of disappointment in his eyes, but duty called, and he couldn't ignore it. As Alexander hurried off to his morning patrol, you were left standing there.

As Alexander hurried away, Ellie's demeanor softened almost instantly. It was as though the cold facade she had initially displayed had melted away with his departure. Ellie turned to you, her expression more gentle. "Sorry about that," she said, her tone warmer than before.

Her sudden change in demeanor slightly put you off. "It is ok, ma'am. What can I help you with?"

You couldn't help but be slightly put off by Ellie's sudden change in demeanor. "It's alright, ma'am," you replied. "Is there something I can help you with?"

Ellie let out a small laugh before walking up to you, closing the distance between you. "No need to call me ma'am. You can call me Ellie. We are all family here."

Ellie's laughter and her request to be called by her first name surprised you, but you nodded in acknowledgment. "Of course, Ellie."

With purposeful steps, Ellie started to circle you. Your heart started racing, and her presence felt somewhat imposing, like a predator sizing up its prey. "I have heard excellent things about you as a teacher. I am going to observe you today." You were a bit nervous when she finally stopped directly before you.

"I'd be honored to have you observe my class," you replied, trying to maintain your composure. Inside, your mind raced as you prepared for the upcoming observation. "I hope I live up to all of your expectations."

"I am sure you will," she replied. She gave you a smile that was meant to be comforting but came off as more sinister. She stepped out of your way and opened the door to the school building. "Ladies first."

You nodded in response to her comment and gesture. You stepped forward and entered the school building ahead of her. You couldn't help but wonder about the true nature of Ellie's intentions. As you entered your classroom, the sight of your students filled you with a sense of purpose. You had always loved working with young children; something about teaching them gave you hope for the future. While waiting for you to arrive, the children played with the classroom toys. You placed your bag on your old desk. "Alright, children, please settle down," you said, your voice carrying authority softened with kindness. The children swiftly cleaned up their play area and returned to their chairs. Ellie lingered in the doorway.

You directed the children's attention to Ellie's presence in the doorway. "Children, this is Ms. Williams. She will observe our class today, so please be on your best behavior." Turning your attention to Ellie, you added, "Let me get you a chair to sit in." You moved over a well-worn office chair from behind your desk to the doorway, offering her a seat to observe the class comfortably. As Ellie settled in, you began the day's lessons, determined to impress Ellie.

Throughout your lessons, you felt Eillie's watchful eye on you. The whole time, she did not take any notes. Instead, she just stared at you. The weight of her gaze felt heavy over you. The whole thing made you nervous. You thought yourself stumbling over your words as you spoke. Your palms were sweaty, causing problems as you wrote some words for the children to practice spelling. Your fingers trembled so much that you ended up dropping the caulk. The caulk bounced on the floor before rolling over to Ellie's feet.

As you conducted your lessons, you couldn't shake the feeling of Ellie's stare. Her gaze felt like a heavyweight, and it made you increasingly nervous. The pressure of her presents started to take its toll. You stumbled over your words, your sentences losing their fluidity. Your palms grew sweaty, making writing neatly on the board challenging. Your trembling fingers betrayed you when you accidentally dropped the chalk. The chalk clattered to the floor, bouncing before resting at Ellie's feet.

The room fell silent for a moment, and you could feel everyone's eyes on you, including Ellie's. You offered a sheepish smile and quickly moved to pick up the chalk. As you both reached for the fallen chalk, your hands brushed against each other briefly. A sudden rush of energy surged through you, causing your heart to skip a beat. Hastily, you withdrew your hand, allowing Ellie to pick up the chalk. As Ellie straightened up, it felt like she loomed over you, her presence undeniably commanding. She placed the chalk back into your hand, and the connection between you two felt electric. Her touch, firm on your shoulder, offered a strange mix of reassurance and unease.

"You don't need to worry," Ellie said softly, her voice close to your ear. "You're doing perfectly." With her free hand, she gently brushed aside a stray strand of hair that had fallen in front of your face during the exchange, sending a shiver down your spine as a complex mixture of emotions swirled within you.

You felt renewed confidence after Ellie's reassuring words and the brief, unexpected interaction. With a firm nod, you returned to your lesson, the tension from earlier slowly dissipating. You taught with more confidence and clarity for the remainder of the class. Your words flowed as you guided your students through the material. The children seemed engaged, and their eagerness to learn helped you focus on the task at hand, temporarily pushing aside the unusual events of the morning.

At noon, it was time for the children to eat their lunch. As the children settled down to eat their lunches, you assisted them in getting their packed meals from their bags. The classroom buzzed with activity as the kids enjoyed their food. Amidst this, Ellie approached you from behind, her words catching you off guard.

"You've done an excellent job today," she acknowledged. "I have some other matters to attend to, so I'll leave. But before I go, I wanted to ask you something. Would you accompany me at the head table during the family supper?" Her request was unexpected, and you found yourself momentarily speechless.

Despite your unease, you couldn't bring yourself to say no to her invitation. Her influence in the town was undeniable, and it was well-known that you could not say no to her. "Of course, I'll be there." You gave her a soft smile. Ellie nodded in response before swiftly leaving the room. The prospect of the upcoming weighed on your mind as you continued to attend to the children during the day.

After Ellie left, the rest of your day unfolded in its usual rhythm. You continued teaching the children until early evening, guiding them through lessons. Parents began to arrive, one by one, to collect their children. The parents hurried their children home to get ready for family dinner. As the last child was picked up, you gathered your belongings. There was a soft rustling of leaves in the gentle evening breeze as you walked home.

Your peaceful walk ended as you ascended your house's front porch steps. You swiftly entered the house, the familiar embrace of warm air enveloping you. You could hear the soothing fire crackling in the fireplace from the entryway. You placed your belongings on a coat rack by the door, carefully hanging your coat. The soft thud of your bag hitting the wooden frame. "Mother, I am home," you called out, your voice carrying through the home.

"I am in my room, darling," your mother's gentle voice responded, a melody of warmth and love that beckoned you upstairs.

The wood creaked under your foot as you walked up the stairs to the second floor. When you reached your mother's room, you found her bedroom door stood slightly ajar. Pushing the door gently, you were greeted by seeing your mother sitting in a comfortable armchair by the window. She held a piece of clothing in her lap, and her skilled hands deftly worked a needle and thread, sewing patches onto the fabric. Even though she had lost her eyesight, she refused to let it slow her down. Your mother had taken up a job as a seamstress in town. She repaired everyone's clothes, from the youngest child's torn shirt to the worn-out garments of older people. Her skillful hands extended the lifespan of these clothes.

"Welcome home, my dear," she said, radiantly smiling. She set down the piece of clothing she was working on when addressing you. "How was your day?"

With a deep sigh, you sat down on her bed. As you sank into the soft matrices, you felt like a weight was lifted off your shoulders. "My day was strange… Alexander asked me on a date." You remember how you felt at that moment. Every cell in your body was bursting with excitement.

"However, before we could plan anything, Ms. William appeared."

Your mother's subtle shift in her seat caught your attention. Her movement prompts you to look up at her. Worry clouded her eyes, and a sense of unease hung in the air. It was clear that Ellie Williams was someone your mother held in high regard but also feared. She understood just how powerful Ellie was in town. "What did Ms. Willames want?"

"She wanted to observe my class," you replied, still trying to process the unusual encounter. "Supposedly, she's been hearing good things about my teaching skills."

Your mother offered you a reassuring smile and gently touched your cheek. "I'm glad you're in her good graces," she said, her voice tinged with pride and caution. She then took a deep breath before continuing, choosing her words carefully. "However, remember to be careful around her. Her influence runs deep, and her actions have shaped the town in ways we can't always understand. Do you remember what happened to the young couple last year?"

You nodded, your mind drifting to a sad memory from the previous year. The event is a stark reminder of Ellie Williams' power and the consequences of crossing her path.

The official story is that a wanted young couple ventured into the wastelands beyond the town. It was forbidden to leave the town borders without special permission. Instead of using the main entrees, the couple sneaked out of town using one side gate on the perimeter wall. In their haste, they accidentally left said gates open. A small herd of infected creatures found their way in. The Guards had to act swiftly and kill all the infected before any damage could be done. When the young couple returned, Ellie was waiting for them with a punishment in hand.

Ellie stated that the couple must repent and reconnect with God. Residents felt shivers through the town. Guards escorted them to one of the many shacks designed for introspection located by Elli's house. These shacks are structured to make people reflect on their actions. Only Ellie and her trusted counsel were allowed to interact with the individuals. Often, those relocated to the shacks spent most of their days alone. Access to approved religious texts served as the only form of entertainment.

For six long months, the town heard nothing from the couple. Updates came solely from Ellie during the community meals, her brief mentions serving as the only connection to the outside world.

When the couple was finally released, a heavy cloud of silence hung over their return. The bruises that covered their bodies went unaddressed by the townsfolk. It seemed as if everyone had collectively agreed to overlook the ordeal. Few newcomers dared to ask about what had transpired during those six months. Instead of answers, they were met with cryptic replies. Over time, even they succumbed to the town's unspoken rule of silence.

The entire event served as a chilling reminder of the delicate equilibrium within the town. The respect for Ellie's authority and the fear of her consequences walked hand in hand, casting a shadow over the community's collective conscience.

"Yes, Mother. I remember what happened to the young couple. I promise you that I will be careful," you reassured your mother with sincerity, squeezing her hand lightly and offering a reassuring smile. However, that optimism quickly faded as you couldn't escape the feeling of unease.

Your mother noticed your change in demeanor. "What is wrong, my dear?"

As you thought about the upcoming dinner, a swirl of emotions churned. "Ms. Williams wants me to join her at the head table during family supper," you admitted. Your voice betrays your true feelings.

The honor of being in Ellie's presence, let alone being invited to dine with her, was undeniable. There was a part of you that felt genuinely honored by the gesture. However, that honor weighed heavily on you. Beneath the feeling of recognition, there was a gnawing fear. You couldn't shake the feeling that one wrong move could quickly put you on Ellie's bad side. Only some wanted to find themselves on Ellie's wrong side.

Your mother's sudden movement startled you, causing you to look up. "We must get you ready for tonight," she declared.

There was seriousness in her features as she gazed into your eyes. You opened your mouth to speak, but she silenced you. Her firm grip on your wrist pulls you to your feet. She rushed into your room. Once inside your room, she released her hold on you and began rummaging through your closet. She had an almost frantic determination when looking through your wardrobe. Her frustration was evident as she examined each piece of clothing she pulled out. Most of the items were riddled with holes and stained from everyday wear.

"Mother, what are you looking for? Can I not just wear what I normally do?" you asked, picking up the discarded clothes from the floor.

She sharply turned to you, her eyes hardening as they met yours. "No, you must wear something nicer," she replied firmly, shaking her head before returning her focus to the closet. "Everyone's eyes will be on you, and you must be perfect."

Your stomach dropped as your mother's words sank in. It all started to make sense. Ellie rarely dined with anyone outside her inner circle. The fact that she had invited you meant that the entire town would scrutinize your every move. The pressure was immense, and the consequences of messing up extended beyond just displeasing Ellie. Everyone in the community would also judge your family and your place.

Your mother's voice pulled you out of your anxiety-filled spiral. "Ah! This is perfect," your mother exclaimed.

Your mother's search eventually found the nicest clothes you had. She found a long skirt dyed a deep, warm orange and a white blouse adorned with delicate orange flowers embroidered into the fabric. There were a few faint stains on the clothes, remnants of past occasions when you had worn them. You had always reserved these two items for significant events. You did this to preserve their condition.

Your mother handed you the outfit before speaking again. "Quickly put these on. Once you are done, we can do your hair."

Obeying your mother's command, you went to the second-floor bathroom. You quickly stripped down and redressed in the skirt and blouse. Once fully dressed, you took a moment to gaze at yourself in the cracked bathroom mirror. You couldn't help but appreciate the transformation. Despite the few stains, you must admit that you looked pretty good in your carefully chosen attire. Confidence began to bloom within you, a necessary shield against the evening ahead.

One last glance at the mirror, and you exited the bathroom. Returning to your room, you found your mother sitting on the edge of your bed, a hairbrush in her hand. Without a word, you crossed the room and settled on the floor before her. She gently brushed your hair; the rhythmic motion and the silence between you created a sense of calm.

As your mother continued to brush and style your hair, the sound of your father's approaching footsteps grew louder. His voice called out from beyond the doorway, "Is anyone up here?"

"We are in here, dear," your mother replied without looking up, her attention entirely focused on your hair.

Your father entered the room following your mother's voice, his curiosity piqued. His gaze fell upon your outfit, and he couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. "What are the two of you up to?" he inquired with amusement and curiosity. "What's with the fancy get-up?"

You addressed your father in a soft tone. "I've been invited to dine with Ms. Williams during family supper," you explained. The words carried the weight of unease that still lingered in your mind.

Your father did not share your feeling of unease. Instead, excitement washed over your father's features as he learned of your invitation. He enthusiastically leaned down and pulled you up from the floor, disregarding your mother's protestations. He enveloped you in a warm, tight hug. His voice filled with joy as he said, "That is such good news!" His infectious excitement momentarily eased some of the tension you were feeling.

An annoyed noise escaped your mother as she was displeased with your father's interruption. She gently touched her husband's shoulder, attempting to redirect his attention. "Darling," she began, "I need to finish her hair. It would be best if you started getting ready yourself. We will need to head out soon."

Your father hesitantly let you go, understanding the urgency in his wife's words. His tone softened as he responded, "You are right, dear." Leaning down, he kissed your head lovingly before leaving your room. Once he was gone, you and your mother finished preparing you for the evening ahead.

You arrived at the building as the sun dipped behind the horizon. The sun casts a warm glow over the sky. Your parents left earlier than you and were already inside the communal building. Most townsfolk were already inside, but a few lingered outside, savoring the evening air. Among them, you spotted Alexander, who was standing near the entrance. Upon seeing him, you quickened your pace and called out to him. He turned his attention toward you, and you couldn't help but notice the subtle change in his demeanor. His eyes went slightly slack-jawed as he took in your outfit. You even saw him stand a little straighter as he met your gaze.

"Wow, you look amazing," Alexander exclaimed in awe, his eyes appreciating your outfit. "You are gorgeous in that outfit."

A blush warmed your cheeks at his compliment. "Thank you," you replied softly, feeling a growing connection with him. Stepping closer, you met his gaze and asked, "What are you doing outside? Shouldn't you be inside already?"

Alexander gave you a sheepish smile. "I was waiting for you. I was hoping to sit with you during dinner."

Your smile began to fade as you remembered your duty for the evening. Before you could respond, another voice interrupted. "She will be joining me for dinner tonight."

You turned to find Ellie standing behind you. Ellie placed her hand firmly on your shoulder. The weight of her words and their implications hung in the air. Alexander's smile dropped upon seeing Ellie. You could tell he wanted to say something but held it in. He knew better than to challenge Ellie on anything.

You acknowledged her statement with a firm nod. Ellie's hand glided down your back before settling at the base. She urges you forward with a push of her hand. As you leave Alexander, you throw him a glance that conveys your regret.

Family supper was sacred in the community. It is a weekly gathering where the community shares a meal. However, the event transcends a simple community meal. It reinforces community members' bonds with each other. It also reminds everyone of their shared purpose.

Before the dinner was served, it was customary for Ellie to deliver a speech. These speeches were unique in their delivery but touched on essential topics. She would sometimes speak of the community's prosperity. She would also celebrate the community's achievements and unity. The whole room is always filled with pride and togetherness after these speeches. On other occasions, she would deliver cautionary words. She would sound the alarm against those seeking to hurt the community. She also warned against those who wish to undermine the community's values and way of life.

Ellie's speeches served as a source of inspiration for the community members. Everyone would see how much she treasured everyone in the room. It also showed how dedicated she was to the protection of the community. It was not uncommon for people to leave with a profound sense of purpose and solidarity.

Family supper was something you usually enjoyed. Seeing everyone gathered in the same room, sharing laughter, stories, and life, filled your heart with joy. You really could feel the strong bonds between community members. A sense of dread coursed through your nerves on this particular evening. As you entered the room, you couldn't ignore the collective gaze of everyone present. Their eyes locked onto you, and emotions played across their faces. Many were surprised and caught off guard by your presence in Ellie's company. Some seemed to study you, searching for clues to gain Ellie's favor. But there were others, their glares filled with resentment. They looked as if they wanted nothing more than to see you fail.

Ellie's table was situated on the far side of the room on top of a stage, adding to the mounting stress of the situation. Every scrutinizing eyes carefully watched you traversing the space. Ellie kept her hand on your back the whole time you walked to the table. Her hand only moved from that spot when she offered it to you as you walked up the stairs.

Ellie pulled a chair out from the table and extended it towards you. "Here you go, my lady," she said, her tone warm.

You offered her a grateful smile. "Thank you," you replied before sitting at the table. Ellie gave you a wink and picked up your hand. She placed a soft kiss on your knuckles.

The room fell silent as Ellie took her place at the center stage. There is a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. All eyes fixed upon her, and you felt the weight of the community's collective attention. Her gaze swept over the assembled crowd. She assessed the room before she began to speak. The hushed room awaited her words, eager to hear what she would share this evening.

"My beloved flock, seeing you all again fills my heart with joy." Ellie's presence was radiant as she stood before everyone. To many, she almost resembled an angel in their eyes. "As I look around this room," she continued, "I am reminded of how far this community has come. It wasn't too long ago that this town was a desolate wasteland. But look at it now: transformed into a beautiful, thriving community."

Her words were imbued with a deep sense of pride. Everyone looked up at her with admiration in their eyes. Ellie's words resonated deeply with the crowd, and a collective sense of accomplishment washed over the room.

"My life before founding this town was filled with loss. Everyone who I ever loved had either died or left me. I was left transient with no reason to live. One day, a realization washed over me. I could establish a town of my own." Ellie declared, her voice filled with conviction. "It could be a paradise where everyone could sleep peacefully at night. A home where no one would suffer from hunger. A sanctuary where there is no loss, only life," she proclaimed, her words resounding with a sense of purpose and hope. She paused, allowing her words to settle in, and then gestured to the room around her as if encompassing the entire community in her vision.

Ellie descended from the stage, her movements deliberate and purposeful as she began to walk between the tables of seated community members. Her presence drew the attention of everyone in the room as she continued to speak. Unlike you, Ellie thrived under everyone's gaze. Not once did she falter or come off as nervous.

"Building a paradise is a massive undertaking that requires lots of skills," she began, her voice carrying through the room. "Initially, I doubted my abilities to create such a place. Before I could do anything, I had to find a location free from infection and raiders. Only then could I begin gathering the resources needed to rebuild." As Ellie moved among the tables, she made direct eye contact with each person she passed, her gaze unwavering and determined.

As I slept, a voice spoke to me in my dreams one night," Ellie continued. "The voice told me it was my destiny to build a haven. In my dream, I saw a town untouched by the world's evils. It even told me how to find this paradise. "She gestured once again, her hand indicating the buildings that dotted the landscape of their community.

"The voice said that if I started to build, people would come. It also said I would guide lost souls to salvation as a leader. The voice spoke about how I could cultivate a new generation of people who survive and thrive. The voice also claimed I am the only person to take on this task due to my immunity."

Her words have the audience in hushed reverence. Many felt that they were witnessing the fulfillment of a divine prophecy. The room was filled with awe and inspiration at Ellie's words. Her words even have an effect on you. A sense of calm replaced the feeling of unease you held earlier. The feeling washed over you as she spoke. You believed every word.

"When I awoke that morning, I gathered my meager belongings and embarked on my mission. It was a long and arduous journey that spanned many days. Along the way, I encountered countless challenges. I fought against raiders, braved extreme weather, and faced the relentless trials of the world. Yet, through it all, I never wavered in my purpose. Ultimately, my determination paid off when I discovered what I had been searching for. Along the coast, I found an untouched gem. The moment I saw the town on the horizon, I knew it was the place perfectly suited for my vision of a town."

Her storytelling captivated the room, making everyone hang on her every word. The attentive audience fixed their eyes on her, hanging on her every word. As she moved through the room, the people she passed by couldn't help but lean in closer to her. Many of them were drawn by the power of her narrative and the strength of her conviction. There was a sense of reverence and admiration in the air.

"As soon as I arrived, I wasted no time turning my vision into a reality. Day by day, I tirelessly rebuilt the structures, secured the perimeter wall, and started the first greenhouses. My own hands carried out every task, and I never once faltered. Not long after I started working, you, my flock, arrived." She extended her hand, gesturing towards the crowd who watched her with rapt attention. "As each of you found me and joined this cause, we became stronger. Your efforts brought the town closer to the perfect haven I envisioned."

At that moment, a sense of unity and shared purpose filled the room. Most people saw the town's collective efforts as a part of a divine plan. A handful of people even felt destiny had guided them to come together. These beliefs forged a bond between the community members that transcended the ordinary.

You, too, felt the impact of these beliefs. The arrival of the survivors long ago felt like a deliberate act of fate. It was hard not to believe a higher power had orchestrated it. Without the survivor's information, you would have never known Ellie's town existed. Even if you learned about the settlement through other sources, it was still doubtful you would have ever found the town alone. You most likely would have died in the wastelands like many others. It became clear to you early on that God had guided you to this settlement for a reason.

"My dream has become a reality thanks to my guidance and your unwavering hard work. Together, we have forged a world free from suffering. Our children will never know the pangs of hunger. As parents, you can watch your children flourish and shape a brighter future. Everyone is guaranteed to grow old and die a peaceful death. Every member of this community possesses an unstoppable potential for a better life. As I look around this room, I see that this community embodies everything I have ever desired. And it does not surprise me that we have achieved it."

Ellie paused her speech for what seemed to stretch for an eternity. She locked her gaze upon you, her eyes piercing deep into your soul. The look Ellie gave you left you feeling exposed and vulnerable. The intensity in her eyes remained enigmatic. Even if with the feeling her gaze gave, you could not look away.

As Ellie broke eye contact with you and returned to her place at the center stage, a sense of anticipation filled the room. Everyone waited on the edge of their seats to see what she would say next. "As a reward for your hard work," Ellie announced, her voice filled with generosity, "I had the kitchen make apple pies. Enjoy your meal, everyone.

The room filled with admiration and gratitude as Ellie's unexpected gesture was met with awe. Most meals were planned with optimal nutrition in mind. This made desserts a rarity in the community, typically reserved for special occasions. So, the decision to provide apple pie on an ordinary day was met with overwhelming appreciation. Ellie's act had made everyone feel genuinely seen and valued.

While the community members exchanged grateful glances, Ellie seemed indifferent to their reactions. Instead, she turned her back to the crowd and directed her attention to you. Ellie had an almost eerie smile as she walked closer to the table. "Shall we eat?" she asked, her expression left you with an inexplicable sense of unease.

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