One

Only three days ago Bass thought he was going to loose the one person he truly cared for and that thought had driven him mad. The idea of not having Ivy in his life was one he couldn't face, so when the doctor had said she would live, Bass felt a rare moment of elation. "She's too stubborn to give in", Jeremy sighed as he left her room. "Too stubborn and too strong". Bass nodded, turning his attention back to Ivy lying quietly on the bed.

The moment he had arrived with her, Bass realised just how much his men respected her, even after all this time. Tom, Jeremy and several other high ranking officers had dropped by on more than one occasion, each keen to see her recover.

"She may have left, but General Jackson is a remarkable woman", Tom had sighed during a visit. "She is a great teacher, person and leader".

Bass couldn't help but agree. Ivy had been responsible for the creation of one of the strongest groups, The Neutrals, and had fought hard for the treaties between them and all other groups. How many people could boast such an achievement?

Two

6 years after the blackout

Some of the most powerful people were gathered in that small town and Ivy couldn't help but feel more than a little nervous. It had taken months of communications to get them to agree to meet and she had been pleased when they said there would be no fighting. All they had to do was stick to that promise.

"Looking nervous miss", Miles whispered from behind, "And you should be". He moved in front of her, his eyes not shifting from the many enemies in the room.

"Forming a group that refuses to take sides is one thing, but this", he raised a small document, "This treaty is something different". Ivy tried to hide her concern, giving her old friend a wry smile.

"I think, General Matheson, it is you who is wrong". She pulled the document from his hand, "We will protect all sites of national and historical significance, providing a haven and neutral zone for any future meetings between militias".

Ivy thumbed through the pages, "The Neutrals will act as liaisons between rival groups and never interfere in any conflicts, unless they spill into our territory". She handed the treaty back to Miles, "They would be foolish to turn down such an offer".

"The fact that you and the Neutrals could wipe the floor with us is what will make these men say yes", Bass laughed, slapping Miles on the back.

"They've all seen you in action Ivy and know you have trained all of your soldiers. They wouldn't dare say no or cross you".

Three

3 days later

3 days. A mere 3 days to get all the major leaders of the new states to agree and sign their peace treaties with the Neutrals. Ivy had been surprised at their eagerness to sign the document and just how few stipulations they had wanted added. Soon, the historical places that Ivy had selected would be placed under the care and control of The Neutrals, ensuring at least a part of the United States heritage would be protected.

Four

Present day

"Bass", Ivys soft voice woke the General with a start and he stumbled as he ran to her bed side. It had been nearly a week since she had been attacked and this had been the first time she had regained consciousness. "Bass", she sighed, turning those half closed eyes towards him. He grabbed her hand, squeezing it tightly,

"I'm here Ivy". Ivy tried to pull herself up, shoving at the blankets.

"I have to leave. I have to go home". She flinched, her hand clutching at the injury on her side.

"No way lady!", Bass pushed her down, trying to pull the covers back over her small frame.

"I have to Bass", she retorted, her voice clearer now. "Bass, Gettysburg is in danger. Jared is going to attack her".

Five

Tom and Jeremy stood side by side in their leaders office, each unsure of what was happening. Bass sat on the edge of his desk, his brow furrowed and arms crossed. Next to him sat Ivy, a serious expression on that delicate face.

"I've just received word from one of our scouts that a large force is making moves to launch an attack", Bass turned to Ivy and sighed. "They're headed towards Gettysburg and will be there in a matter of days".

The two men before them shook their heads,

"Who the hell would launch a strike on Neutral Territory?", Jeremy hissed.

Ivy moved forward, "Jared would. It seems the Striker Militia have amassed quite a following and intend to make an example of Gettysburg". Tom and Jeremy turned to each, both shocked by what they were hearing. Tom stepped forward, shaking his head,

"General sir, we aren't going to let this happen, are we?".

Jeremy nodded, moving beside Tom,

"I know they aren't part of the Monroe Republic but". He looked over at Ivy and offered her a warm smile, "But neither are they our enemy".

Ivy turned to Bass, now smiling broadly,

"I told you they would stand with you". He moved from the desk, walking over to Tom and handing him a piece of paper, "Get this to Gettysburg now. Prepare a contingent and be ready to leave in 1 hour". Jeremy and Tom saluted, quickly leaving the room to prepare. "I won't let Gettysburg fall Ivy". He turned to her offering a reassuring smile, "I swear I won't"

Six

Soon Jareds troops with be here at his side and he felt certain that no one suspected the coming attack. So when several riders, wearing the Monroe Militias uniforms, arrived at the small town, he could not understand what was happening. He watched as the approached the main house, stopping mid step as Miles emerged from inside. Perhaps they were bringing news of Ivy, but Jared felt that something else was going on. As Miles motioned for one of the men to enter the house, Jared knew.

His attack was no longer unexpected and that would force him to change his plans.