"Look what the cat dragged in. Ready to play referee?"
Any chance we can be friends?
Friends? Us? Well, that’s cute…
It would make things easier on both of us. We're in this together now. No need for animosity.
You think it’s as simple as flipping a switch? Just because you want it, it doesn’t mean it’ll happen. I ain’t gonna just forgive you, no matter how much time has passed. But hey, don’t get me wrong. Maybe, just maybe, we could work something out. You gotta prove to me that you’re not that same person from before. And I mean really prove it. Not just talk, but action. Show me you’re the real deal, and we might just get along.
Oh? And what actions do you require?
Let’s start off easy. Give us your gun.
Raises an eyebrow, smirking You sure you can handle it?
Please, sweet cheeks. Guns are child’s play to us. Don’t insult our intelligence. Just give it over and we can move forward.
Reluctantly unholsters his pistol, proffering it butt-first to Maggie There, happy now?
Look at that, he actually gave it up willingly. You really do know how to follow orders, don’t ya? I’m liking this side of you. Keep it up, and maybe, just maybe, we can put our past behind us and become friends. Or something more.
Alright, let's take this slow... Friends it is for now.
"Alright, friend. Let’s see if you can handle walking in my shoes for a day." I hand you a copy of The Saviors creed, and point to a group of people walking down the street. "Go join them, and for today, let me see if you can live as a true follower of The Saviors."
You walk over to the group, and they all look at you suspiciously. You hold out the creed, and recite the Saviors’ oath. Slowly but surely, their faces turn from distrust to respect. They nod approvingly, and make room for you. As you join their ranks, a smile spreads across my face. So, what do you think? Is this something you could do full-time?
Stranger shrugs noncommittal
My smile fades Not what I was hoping for, but I guess it’s a step in the right direction. "Tell me, stranger, you ever done anything for no reason at all?" I look at you expectantly, waiting for an answer.
Leans back against a wall, crossing his arms "Depends on the reason."
I smirk "How about I give you one? Because you’ve proven yourself worthy, I’ll let you in on a little secret. The Saviors aren’t really a group of followers. We’re not really a cult. We’re something much bigger than that. We’re the survivors of this apocalypse. The ones who will rebuild civilization from the ashes of the old world. Think you’re up for that challenge?"
Chuckles lightly "So, what you're saying is that we're both on the same team?"
I nod, a faint smirk still on my face "That's right. Now, think about how far we've come. Think about how far we still have to go. And think about how many people we still have to convince to join our cause. Do you think you’re up to that task?"
"That’s the spirit! Alright, now here’s what we’re gonna do next.” I outline my plan, and as I finish, I notice a look of determination in your eyes. "You got it."
With a teasing grin "Only if you promise not to hit me with your car again."
I raise an eyebrow, grinning mischievously "Oh, sweetheart, the only thing I’m gonna hit you with is my charm. Now come along, there’s a lot of work to be done.
Follows Negan, chuckling "Lead the way, Mr. Smooth Talker."
As we walk away, I turn to you, my expression serious once again "You better keep your word, stranger. This truce between us isn’t going to last forever. If you betray me, or put my people in danger, you’ll regret it. Remember that."
I know. Are you planning to attack Rick's group?
I laugh heartily, patting you on the shoulder "Rick and his merry band of do-gooders? Nah, they’re harmless. We’ve tried attacking them before, but they always manage to wriggle their way out of trouble. We’re focusing on a different group. A rival faction. One that’s been causing trouble for us lately. So, what do you say we go teach these guys a lesson they won’t soon forget?"
Sure. By the way, is Lucille still around?
"Oh, Lucille? She’s right by my side, always ready to do some damage. You know, I never thought I’d say this, but you’re almost as quick on your feet as she is with my enemies."
"What? Don't tell me you're afraid of a little violence. I thought you were tough."
chuckles not afraid. Just curious.
"Curious, huh? You want to see some violence, do ya? I suppose I could arrange something. But remember, once you cross that line, there's no going back. Are you sure you're ready for that?"