Jesus' POV
Right after talking with Rick and seeing him off at the gate, I lingered there for a moment, watching as he and his group disappeared down the road. His words stayed with me—not just what he said, but the weight behind them.
I knew what he really meant.
Rick wasn't just giving advice—he was giving a warning. A push. He was telling me, in his own way, that if I didn't do something about Gregory soon, he would. And honestly, I couldn't blame him.
I've known Gregory long enough to see through him. Beneath the fake charm and false authority, he's nothing but a coward—a selfish man who'll always choose himself over the community. That much has always been clear.
I glanced across the courtyard and spotted him, talking to a few people, still pretending like he was in control. But the cracks were already showing.
I let out a slow breath. "Tomorrow," I muttered to myself. "I'll decide what needs to be done."
Just then, my thoughts were interrupted by Kal approaching me in a rush.
"Jesus," he called out.
"What is it, Kal?" I asked, turning to face him.
"It's Gregory," he said, frustration clear in his voice. "You know how he is—he's not doing anything. Everyone else is contributing, working hard, but he just stays inside drinking. I tried talking to him, told him we should increase patrol manpower. He brushed me off, said it'd only drain our food supply. He keeps ignoring every suggestion and dismissing complaints. Says what he's doing is for the community—but it's obvious he's just making excuses."
I nodded slowly, the last of my hesitation melting away. "Kal," I said, stepping beside him, "gather the others. The ones who've spoken up about him. I want their statements. We'll use that to justify what's coming."
Kal raised an eyebrow, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Looks like you're finally stepping up, huh?"
He patted my shoulder, and I exhaled deeply. "No choice. This is the perfect time to make a move on Gregory."
"I'll gather them," Kal replied. "What's the plan after that?"
"I'm going to imprison him," I said, voice firm. "Then I'll reach out to Rick and ask for advice on what to do next. We only met yesterday, but… he seems trustworthy. And I know when someone's lying—Rick wasn't."
Kal nodded. "Alright. Quiet move?"
"Yes," I confirmed. "Keep it secret. Ready the people by tomorrow morning. That's when we act. And Kal—start preparing a room. That's where we'll hold Gregory."
"Got it," Kal said with a sharp nod, already turning to get to work.
Things were finally in motion—and this time, I wouldn't back down.
By morning, I sought out Kal to check on the preparations. He met me with a nod and said, "The prison room is ready, and the people are already starting to gather."
I looked out across the Hilltop grounds and saw it happening—residents slowly making their way to the center of the community, where the museum stood. I never really understood why Gregory insisted on calling it that—it was more of a large meeting hall than anything else—but it didn't matter now. What mattered was what was about to happen inside.
I spotted Ethan and Andy helping to round up the rest of the community, making sure everyone was present. Crystal was already on her way to Gregory's office to bring him out. I simply nodded in approval and stepped forward to address the gathering crowd, keeping my tone calm and steady.
A moment later, Crystal returned with Gregory walking beside her, looking confused and irritated. Right behind them, Freddie and Bertie flanked the entrance, quickly positioning themselves to surround him—blocking any chance of escape.
Gregory's eyes widened in disbelief as he looked around. "What… what is this?" he demanded. "Jesus, what the hell are you doing?"
I took a breath and spoke loud enough for everyone to hear. "Gregory has repeatedly put this community at risk. He avoids work, dismisses critical suggestions, and undermines the safety of our people. I've spoken to many of you—and it's clear. The majority here are no longer willing to follow him."
As I spoke, the crowd began to nod, many murmuring their agreement. The dissatisfaction had been growing for a long time—and now, it had finally reached its peak.
Gregory's face twisted in rage. "Traitors! All of you! I've done my best! Everything I've done has been for Hilltop!"
But his words fell flat. No one believed him anymore.
I gave Kal a silent signal. He stepped forward with two others and grabbed Gregory by the arms. "Take him to the holding room," I ordered.
As they dragged him away, Gregory shouted curses and accusations, but no one listened.
I turned back to the people. "This is not about revenge or anger. It's about doing what's right for Hilltop. Now, let's get back to work. We still have a community to build."
The crowd slowly dispersed, returning to their duties with a sense of quiet resolve.
For now, my plan was simple: wait for Rick. When he returns, we'll decide together what comes next.
Rick's POV
Morning had already broken, the sky bathed in a pale orange hue. Daryl and Merle stood behind me, both geared up and ready. The three of us were finally set to head to Hilltop.
We decided to go on foot—not because we didn't have the means, but as a form of discipline. A way to stay sharp, focused. In this world, strength and endurance weren't just habits—they were survival.
I gave a quick nod to Graves, who was manning the gate. "Open it up—and make sure it's secured right after we're out."
Graves returned the nod and moved to unlock the gate, pulling it open with practiced ease.
I glanced over my shoulder at Daryl and Merle. "Alright. Let's head to Hilltop."
Without another word, we stepped beyond the walls and into the quiet road ahead, the rising sun casting our long shadows on the path as we moved forward. I didn't know what we'd walk into—but I hoped Jesus had taken the hint.