+ beside him, who came from the sands to play hero. “Be the smart one and get them to listen to reason. For their sakes.” With that, he would turn and make his leave with a confidence that was either misguided or well-earned.

He held up his hand in mock surrender, looking up at Vivian. Beneath mask, his grin widened, his cheeks burning from the sheer size of it. He recalled the robots descriptions and began to piece who was who. “I know when I’m no longer welcome. See you around, Vivian.” Then, to the gunslinger +

Definitely a point-down moment.

+ Only rule is, has to be human. No ghouls, robots, or animals. Not the same person twice in a row. Got it?” He brushed his sleeve off as dust kicked up around him. “You’ve got a few weeks to find your contestant. I just thought I’d be neighborly and… let you know.”

+ settlement nearby has to send someone. None negotiable. The winner is provided fresh water from yours truly until the next one. You lot are in the area, you send someone too. Hell, I don’t even care if they actually live here. Your guy wins, you get the water and they’re free to go. +

+ my sniper friend decorates the sand with your one of your brains?” He chuckled, stowing the axe. “So, let’s stick to the niceties. I’m here with an offer.” Looking up at another newcomer, he felt the sweat run down his face. “We run a little… deathrun every few months. Every +

“Close enough.” The pleased tone that perforated his raspy voice never left, his fireman’s coat flapping in the hot breeze. “I’m sure you’re fast with your guns, so I’m not going to pretend that you couldn’t beat me to the draw. But could you beat me to the draw and get inside this place before +

He offered a hand. “Good to meet you, Joanna. Let’s talk inside.”

“Hush, sweetie, the grownups are talking.” He waved off Hallie, losing interest in her. This woman, the new one... “You in charge here?” He didn’t wait for an answer. I’m here representing an interested group of people. We want to form an alliance. Us settlements have to stick together, right?” +

+ “Don’t get your hopes up, merch. Kid’s on a power trip.” Then he paused, head slowly turning back to the girl atop the gate, mask tilting. “Unless… mommy and daddy aren’t home?” They surely wouldn’t have left someone so young guarding the whole place.