Five days later, the convoy from Virginia arrived. Leading them was Graves, along with Jesus—leader of the Hilltop—Deanna, the leader of Alexandria, and King Ezekiel from the Kingdom. As for me, I stood as the leader of the Right Arm. The four communities had finally come together for one reason: to discuss a formal alliance.
Deanna brought her son Aiden and Aaron with her, Jesus came with Kal and Ethan, while Ezekiel arrived last, accompanied by Diane and Jerry. They spent the night in our community, and now, this morning, we sat outside under the open sky, enjoying the breeze while preparing for a historic meeting. I could see the surprise in their eyes as they took in the sight of our growing population. We had built something impressive—and it was only going to grow from here.
Once everyone was seated, I stood up and addressed them.
"Welcome to our community. Later today, Beth will give you a full tour of the area. She's been our guide for every new arrival—she toured Sasha and Tyreese when they came, and she'll do the same for you."
They nodded in appreciation.
"Now then, let's get to the main agenda of this meeting," I continued. "I propose we create something I call the United Banner—a formal alliance between our four communities. It will operate like a council, with each of us representing our people. We'll share resources, coordinate defense, and stand as one against future threats."
Deanna, Jesus, and Ezekiel looked at one another, then back at me. Jesus was the first to speak. "That's fine with me. I also suggest we share weapons, horses, and anything else that can benefit all of us."
Ezekiel nodded. "Yes, let's do that. But there's something important we must also consider—how do we choose who leads this alliance? Someone has to serve as our head."
"I agree," Deanna added. "Maybe we vote?"
I nodded. "Yes. A vote makes it fair. So, all in favor of me leading this alliance—at least for now—raise your hand."
One by one, Deanna, Jesus, and Ezekiel raised their hands.
"Well," I said with a faint smile, "looks like it's unanimous. I'll serve as the first leader of our united council."
They nodded in agreement.
"Now," I said, "let's talk about what to call this alliance. Any suggestions?"
"How about The Republic?" Jesus offered.
"The Republic?" Ezekiel repeated thoughtfully. "I like that."
Jesus added, "We're already voting here today, so why not carry that spirit forward? Let each of our communities vote for a local council and representative. Then, from those councils, we vote again for a leader of the entire Republic. That way, the people always have a voice."
I nodded. "That's exactly the kind of system we need."
And so, it was agreed. We shook hands, sealing the pact between our communities. The Republic was born—with me, Rick Grimes, as its first leader.
After the meeting, I stood and raised my hand.
"Now, why don't you all take the time to tour our community. Once again, welcome to your new allies. And enjoy your stay."
"Thank you," they said in unison, a sense of hope and unity beginning to take root.
Beth then stepped forward and offered a warm smile.
"If you're ready, I'll be your guide for today's tour," she said. "We'll start with the west wing of the camp, where most of our housing and food storage are located."
The guests nodded, eager to see how our community operated. Beth led them away while I turned to focus on the outer perimeter.
I walked through the surrounding area just outside the walls, checking our defenses and scouting nearby terrain. That's when I came across a group gathering near one of the lookout posts. Glenn and Michonne were already there, deep in conversation. With them stood around twenty people, including Miguel. Andrea and Amy had just arrived as well, armed and alert.
"We've been discussing the next phase of our outreach plan," Glenn said, nodding toward the group.
"Good," I replied. "It's time we move outward again. I want you to begin in Atlanta."
Everyone looked at me, focused.
"Start with the inner city. Check every building, every alley, every shelter. Leave no one behind. If there are survivors still stuck in that place, we bring them home. Clear it section by section. Once we're sure it's empty, then—and only then—move on to the next area."
Michonne gave a firm nod. "We'll handle it."
"I know you will," I said. "And make sure our runners leave markers behind. I want people to know the Republic has a presence. That we're not just surviving—we're saving."
Andrea glanced toward Amy and then back to me. "When do we leave?"
"By tomorrow morning. Gear up tonight. You'll need ammo, maps, radios, and a mobile med team just in case."
They all nodded, determination in their eyes.
This was more than a mission. It was a statement—we were expanding, and no one would be left behind.
After wrapping things up with Glenn and Michonne, I made my way back toward my house. It was getting late, and all I wanted was a few quiet moments with Maggie. With everything moving so fast—new alliances, new missions—I needed time with her. Just to breathe. Just to feel… normal again, if only for a while.
But as I neared the porch, I heard footsteps behind me. I turned to see Jesus and Dianna approaching, accompanied by a small group from their communities. Calm, collected—just like always.
"Rick," Jesus said, his tone respectful but purposeful. "Some of our people were wondering if they could check in on the others who came with us."
Dianna nodded in agreement. "It's important for morale. Just a brief visit, if that's alright."
I looked between them and the faces behind them—tired, hopeful, cautious. I gave a small nod. "Of course. Follow me."
We walked together through the winding paths of the Right Arm's central district. I led them past the communal gardens, the training field, and finally toward the converted warehouse we used as a holding zone for guests and—on some occasions—prisoners.
"Morgan's in charge of the prisones," I told them as we walked. "He's with Dale and Hershel. They've been keeping things steady."
I signaled to a passing guard to fetch Morgan and have him meet us there. Everything was being watched, nothing left to chance.
As I turned to head back, my eyes flicked toward the western gate—and I couldn't help the thought that crossed my mind.
Maybe I shouldn't have killed Mary and Gareth back then...
Could've been useful—locked up, controlled. Maybe even turned into tools for something bigger. Weapons for the future.
I scoffed at myself quietly. Nah. Some people are just too broken to fix.
Still, a part of me—the part that had grown colder, more calculating since the fall of the world—wondered what I could've done with them.
Shaking off the thought, I moved on, eager now to finally get home.
Maggie was waiting.
And the night wasn't over yet.