Chapter 2: Chapter 2 - The Doors Remain Open

CHAPTER II — THE DOORS REMAIN OPEN Day 1 Approximately Three Minutes Since the Ash Fell Western Watch PostGavin holds his ground while members of his patrol call out observations and recommendations. Half listening, half watching the street in front of him. Watching as the ash burns the citizens of the Western District around him. “Cloaks up! Now! Shields high! Get everyone out of the street! EVERYONE! INSIDE NOW!” Gavin barks. Gavin’s eyes snap up and he can see a lot more ash coming. Baskets and parcels fall abandoned into the street as people scramble toward the Watch Post. Gavin cinches his hood and hoists his shield high overhead, moving towards the closest people he can see. He pulls them into a huddle under his cloak and shield; then directs whoever and anyone that can hear towards the Watch Post. “Whatever this is it is cursed. Get inside and check for injury. Let me know if anything is wrong. Beware of the ash on your clothes. Don’t touch it. I’ll be back. Stay inside. Don’t bar the doors. Please.” He keeps his voice as full of authority as possible. Keep them calm, keep them orderly, keep them going. Getting those immediate people to the doorframe, Gavin turns back to the outside. He sees Ellis escorting an older lady, nearly carrying the woman under his own watch cloak. Marta is already pulling people's clothing tighter around exposed skin as she brings them inside. Bram looks lost but he is darting between people. As he passes Gavin, he grabs him and pulls the cloak further over Bram’s head. “Yes, this is madness. Stay calm. Keep them calm. Go—next group.” Owen isn't escorting anyone himself. Instead, he calls the others toward civilians who have taken cover in doorways, alleys, and whatever shelter they…