Declarations

Part 20: Running Wild Again

Rick caught the scent of burning wood as he and Carl headed toward the food court. Most, who were not assigned for guard duty, remained in their quarters to stay warm. Still, he was not surprised that there was movement in the communal dining area despite the schedule having a later start time.

"Who's helping Dawn today?" Carl asked.

Rick laughed. "What makes you think it's her?"

"Aw, Dad."

The Grimes pair were proven correct. Dawn waved as they approached. She was bundled in multiple layers of clothing, but soon the kitchen would be hot as Rick knew from his time on food duty. The door behind her swung open and Dean appeared with a large pot. He followed her directions and greeted them with a nod.

"What's on the menu?" Carl asked.

"Same as yesterday," Dawn said with a smile. "Watery oatmeal. As soon as Lorenzo and Eugene can flix the glitch with the generator."

Rick frowned. The lights were working when they left Michonne and Judith. He noticed the same in a few of the other dwellings where a few people were stirring. "Is it just here?"

"Everywhere else looked okay," Carl added.

"That's what Lorenzo said," Dawn replied. "All I know is when I came in, the lights were flickering and from what he's told me, that isn't a good sign."

"They've been going on and off since we been here," Dean said. "We started the fire in the barrel just in the case, but cooking on the stove is a lot easier."

"And safer," Dawn said. "If you run into my brother-in-law and Eugene, could you tell them to hurry up?"

Rick nodded. "Yes, ma'am."

Father and son continued their rounds. So far, everything appeared calm and untouched. The cold had caused most to move toward the innermost sections of the ground floor to share heat and resources. The break in weather would be welcomed to give them all a break in being able to spread out again.

"Dad?"

"Yeah?" Rick said.

"Is this the coldest winter you remember, or does it just feel like the coldest?"

"Well, we're used to a warmer climate, I guess," Rick said, "but I remember cold winters, but none that lasted as long as this."

"Animals hibernate at this time, and we don't have too many food options, do we?"

Rick stopped and Carl did so, too. "We'll get by," Rick said quietly. "We always do. Daryl and Tyrese are going out later today. They'll find something—"

"A frozen squirrel?" Carl asked.

"Maybe," Rick said with a chuckle, "and if they don't, we've seen Dawn create magic with little. I don't want you worrying about food. If we have to ration, we'll still make it."

"I'm just thinking about Judith," his son said. "I get that food is low, but she's just a baby—"

"The powdered milk isn't completely gone," Rick said. "Judith will be fine. Okay?"

Carl's response was interrupted by an outcry. Rick recognized Abraham's voice as the other man barked orders down below. Soon, others joined in.

"Stay close," Rick said as he and Carl ran toward the non-functioning escalator.

Dawn and Dean met them at the top. Both had their weapons ready. "What's happening?" Dawn asked.

"Can't say," Rick replied before he hurried down the steps with Carl close behind.