Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sometimes things can happen that can be traumatizing but it's like watching a movie play before your eyes. You don't feel involved. You feel like a silent spectator watching as everything you know comes crashing down around you. When the outbreak began, she remembered feeling numb. She remembered the frantic scrambling of people and the squabbles between them as they ran in and out of Walmart. It had been the first store on her family's list. When it had all began, Sol's father made sure to remind them of what he said years ago. "It may seem like I'm crazy but there's gon come a day when you gonna be thankful I took the measures that I did." He was right. Sol used to be embarrassed of him, but she had always kept it to herself. Sol's father was one of those end of the world fanatics that prepared to the extremes for what they 'knew' would come but never did. Well, it came. Never did she think she would ever be thankful of that, but she was. Secretly she knew what was going to happen before it did. She knew two months ago. Ever since she was small, she had been able to see the future in dreams or in visions. But she knew not say anything. She would only warn of what not to do and leave before anyone could ask why. But her grandparents knew and soon her father and mother did too. She had been afraid they would take advantage of her, but they didn't. Other than asking what to do, nothing really changed. Not even her brother or sister knew but her parents did and made sure to keep mum about it. Looking back now it had all seemed so long ago. She had never been to the Redwoods National Park and the moment she arrived she had been awed by its magnificence.

It was late afternoon by the time she had arrived, and time had been of the essence. She needed to find shelter fast. Before night had fully managed to settle in, she had been lucky to stumble upon cave under the waterfall. Getting to it had been tricky but with the help of a few well-placed rocks she had been able to get inside. It was damp from the spray back near the entrance but the deeper she went she found a just right spot to settle at. She was lucky it wasn't winter, or she would have had to go through the task of making a fire. The season was at the odd little gap between summer and fall when it felt too cool to be hot and warm enough to not be cold.

The sleeping bag under her felt nice and as the rush of the water continued a calm serenity began to fill the little space. Steadily the memories came up. Of different things. The last couple of normal days she had before society crashed. Of the few moments spent with her family during the collapse of everything. Then finally time spent on her own.

As her mind rushed to different things she found it odd how her eyes remained dry. How unaffected she felt. 

After a while shouldn't I feel something? The last of my family is dead because of my Uncle's loose tongue. I have had to lie, bargain, and steal to get here but I feel no remorse. I feel fine...is there something wrong with me?

Searching within herself she found her answer from shows or movies she used to watch. 

No I feel fine and it's normal after everything to feel detached or numb sometimes it depends on the person. I never panicked around anyone and when I felt like I was about to I would take a deep breath and look around. What do I feel now?

Her hands pressed against the solidness of the wall she leaned against. It remained. Then she took in the stars through the space between the water that came down outside the came. Night and day remained and beyond that so did the nature of this forest. No matter how society destroyed itself the earth still kept on. She was here and somehow despite often times bleak odds, she still remained.

After the quick moment of clarity, Sol relaxed and slowly found herself drifting off to rush of the water. At ease once again. 

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The night had come and gone and with it being another dream of the future. She would meet the apes today...however Sol was determined to not meet them just yet. She felt ready but she had seen glimpses of their leader and watched his uprising through a dream. She knew Caesar but the thing was he didn't know her. She had been firm in the decision to avoid them for now though futures could always change. Sol had food with her but knew she needed to still gather wood and dry leaves or pine straw. The timing seemed great to do it now. If it's early then they'll probably be a slim chance of the apes crossing paths with her.

Or at least that's what she thought. This forest really was beautiful. Peaceful. There just was something about the sight that was relaxing. The vegetation and ambience of sunlight dappling the forest floor made for a calming sight. Reminded her of Saturday mornings making breakfast and watching National Geographic while her parents were at work. If she closed her eyes or tried hard enough she could almost smell the bacon now. Hear the light stirring of the eggs her sister was cooking beside her. Could even remember rolling her eyes as her brother cracked a silly joke at them while coming in the kitchen. The contrast was so stark now. There were no birds in the kitchen. The floor  didn't crackle under her feet. The illusion was broken. 

Stop daydreaming and remember what you came for!

Sol mentally shook herself and focused on the task at hand.

As she gathered the branches and dried straw, she could have sworn she heard something a little ways away from her. Sol grew tense and tried to ease silently behind a tree when she saw a deer startle and run from her. 

Damn! I can't hide in a bush, they'll come and investigate. Can't run because they'll know I'm here. Stick close to the tree.

Sol quickly pressed herself against the tree and peered around the tree at the two adolescent apes. As they slowly came over to where she hid she eased around making sure to remain just out of sight. She was in the clear! That is...until she heard hooting in alarm behind her. As she turned, she was met with a group of other apes and in the distance could hear more hooting and screeching. Without glancing around Sol took off towards the waterfall and as she ran she could hear them getting closer. Could hear the rustling in the trees above her but was too distracted when she was yanked backwards by someone unseen. The world rushed past as she was pulled into an embrace of iron.

The pit of her stomach didn't drop. At this point it felt like the whole thing dropped out of her right now. She didn't need to look up to know who was restraining her. She knew his name but not of him.

Luca.

By this time the rest the apes had caught up with her and man were there a lot of them! Then came the leader. Caesar. As he glared at her in distrust and agitation, Sol took in a slow shaky breath. It felt like anything could break the tension and she would be done for. How was she gonna get him to listen to her?

Have to try..if I don't they face all that they face alone... I must try..

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The wait was absolutely unbearable. The forest itself felt as if it were waiting to exhale. Sol could only imagine how the rest of the apes felt. After minutes of excruciating waiting, his gruff voice finally rang out. Sharp and straight to the point.

"Why..have you..come?"

Sol couldn't be surprised they could speak. She knew so her answer was swift.

"I...I come to tell you something...To warn you... My reason for coming will not make sense to you. I surmise you may even see it as a lie, but my reasoning is real. You stand to lose what's precious to you and I don't want to see that ripped away again so..I came to San Francisco...to these woods to find you."

His gaze at once sharpened and narrowed. Hoots, confused grunts, and signs began to start up, but they died down once Caesar raised his huge palm in the air. Silence once again settled over the apes and attention was back on him. Instead of a reply this time he signed for Luca to bring her back with them. There weren't many objections save for the scarred bonobo who glared at Sol in disgust. She couldn't see what he or Caesar signed since Luca was already moving with her towards their home.

This was good. It was a step in the right direction at least. The way there was shorter than she expected she could see how they crossed paths as quick as they did. Reckless on her part but at the same time convenient she guessed. She barely paid attention to anything until they got to their destination. The home of the apes. 

All eyes were on them the moment they came in. Well...more on her than on them. A crowd was gathering fairly quick, and Sol was beginning to feel like an outsider even more. When Caesar turned towards Luca, he let the woman go and she took a knee. All was quiet now. She kind of felt like Malcolm but she did not fear as he did. Trying to appear as contrite as possible she spoke her piece again keeping eye contact with the Ape King as she spoke. 

"What I must show you is extremely important and though I have only my word now, everything I will show you is truth. However, I ask that I be allowed to show you in private council. You and only those you deem able or allow to be in attendance. The nature of what I must show you is too dangerous to show to you here."

Anxious hoots and grunts filled the silence almost immediately. Caesar took in their audience and raised his palm for order. Quiet settled once again.

His hardened gaze searched her thoroughly looking for anything that might portray falsehood. Rather quickly he was satisfied and signed for Maurice and Rocket to follow while Luca brought the woman, keeping a firm yet gentle hold on her for precaution. Sol found herself inwardly marveling at their innovativeness. All of them were fascinating and though she did not know each one individually she found herself happy for them. For them their home was freedom many of them knew not of the struggles that brought the originals here, but they were happy. She promised herself she would do all that she could to make sure that happiness remained. She felt their eyes on her again and turned to face them all. Caesar stepped forward expectantly and rumbled low and deathly serious, "Show...me." 

Luca let go and slowly Sol presented her arms to them. Confusion came along with questioning eyes. Sol spoke with a steady yet sure voice and kept eye contact with Caesar.

"What I tell you now will seem ridiculous, but I mean every word of what I ask you. Before I show you do you trust these apes before you now?"

"Yes."

"Take my hand. One of you will have to take my other hand while the rest must grab my arms."

Caesar pinned her with a hard calculating gaze the look in his eyes reading apprehension. No one moved so she plead.

"Please...I cannot show you anything without a point of contact."

Just as she finished speaking, she felt eyes boring into her and turned her head to meet them.

"Blue Eyes."

Shock ripples throughout the room and Caesar looks at the strange woman in bewilderment. The young prince especially stares at her as if she sprouted a second head. The gravel of the Ape King's voice calls her to attention once again," How?" 

"You have to do what I asked. Your son must also see. He can place a hand on my other shoulder."

Bright Eyes is beckoned over by his father and after sharing a look with everyone, they all do as she instructed. The effect is immediate and every ape touching her is shown the future of what they face together from Koba's betrayal to Caesar's death. Like watching a movie except faster and in less time. Sol's mind is blank as of right now but the moment the vision is complete, Blue Eyes stumbles back from her with confused and distressed hoots as the other apes have done. The Ape King in question took two great steps back from her in disbelief and disorientation. She moved away and waited until they regained their composure. When they had all calmed down Luca, Maurice, and Rocket turned their gazes back to Caesar. 

Blue Eyes had unshed tears in his eyes, his gaze darting from the dark skinned woman back to Caesar. The Ape in question's eyes had taken on that look of steel and his stance of the leader. Sol felt on edge and all she could think right now was, what now?

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Blue eyes grunted and tried to sign to his father but Caesar signed enough. Sol watched him sign encouraging words and instructions to the prince. She turned away from the intimate moment to give them privacy and decided it would be better to sit with her back to them instead. She didn't want to be intrusive and realistically she was not one of them. Sol didn't know how long she sat there waiting but eventually she turned to see eyes on her. Caesar. He was alone now and approached her with purpose. Her nerves were literally on the rails right now. Mentally she steadied herself for his response. Readying herself for the negative.

She quickly got to her feet before him as he spoke," Your..name?"

"Sol and you're...Caesar."

"Yes."

Silence took over for a moment until he decided to speak again.

"Why?"

Now it was her turn to feel confused.

"Why what?"

"Why...help us?"

The Ape King watched as her expression turned angry and listened intently to her answer.

"Because you all had your share of suffering. Wrongful care. Abuse. Torture and oftentimes death because people wanted to control things they had no right to control! You had no choice but to endure that and I hated watching it! My nightmares consisted of what all of you dealt with at that fucking sanctuary! Even in the lab at Gen-sys. It was disgusting and I cried a lot of late nights because I could do nothing to stop it. All of you deserve a chance to live happily and as long as I can help I will do everything I can to make sure you all will!"

Caesar found himself taken aback. She spoke with such passion as if she herself was there to witness the abuse. As if she were ape.... Her eyes spoke more volumes than her words alone and he knew she spoke the truth. For the first time in a while he felt speechless. An awkward silence settled so she spoke yet again.

"I'm uh... I'm sorry for your loss by the way. She was sweet I can tell."

He immediately froze and shut his eyes as he processed her words, a heavy sigh slipping through his lips. 

"Thank...you."

"So....any thing you want me to do? I figure I should wait until you finish talking with your son and council before you gave me what you needed me to do. I'm not one of you and I am a stranger in your land so I stayed against the wall."

She felt the death of his wife was an awkward subject because she wasn't sure of his response but she brought it up. For some reason it felt weird to continue talking about it, she could feel his discomfort and quickly changed the subject. Caesar huffed and pinned her with a gaze heavy with purpose. 

He started back signing to her as talking was still an effort on his part. As he did she made sure to keep up and watch intently. 

(Do not tell of what you know. You will stay with Maurice and stay away from Koba. Remain with ape. Do not be alone with him.)

She nodded, "Okay...and Caesar? Thank you for listening to me....one more thing. My things are still in a cave not too far from your colony. If you allow it I would like to go get it..."

The Ape king pondered over the risks of that request. But ultimately decide to let her go with the exception that she take two apes with her. His eyes spoke volumes and was laden with purpose as he signed gently yet firm.

(My son and Luca will take you. Come back)

Sol didn't know why she did it but at that moment she thought it right to do. That's how she ended up in the supplicant gesture, palm up and head bent. Even Caesar was taken aback so he gently swiped her open palm and watched her walk out of his hut. 

Still somewhat awed at the turn of events Caesar joined the rest of the apes, his eyes making sure to keep track of his would be confidant. As Sol searched for Luca and Blue Eyes she turned to feel eyes boring into her back. She went stiff as her eyes met the eye of the scarred Bonobo. The milky eye he sported, having a haunting effect. His were harsh and hateful but she kept her face neutral and looked away from him.

The next pair of eyes she met were Caesar's and she made her way over to him. The Ape King took her to Luca and his son, signing away what they were to do. Blue Eyes seemed willing but absentminded, as of right now while Luca was all business. When they finally left all that was in Sol's mind to do was avoid and protect at all costs. Something she would do under any means necessary.

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As the three made their way there, Blue Eyes continuously snuck stares at Sol. Because she was riding with Luca he noticed and huffed a laugh. Sol glanced between the two as Luca signed.

( Staring at the human won't get her to answer your questions Blue Eyes. You must talk to her!)

Blue Eyes sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck with one palm, taking in his words.Sol patiently waited. She guessed Blue Eyes must have came to his decision because his eyes took on that steely look his father would get. The young prince looked her in the eye as he asked his questions in sign. 

(Why are you alone? Are there not more like you, that you could be with?)

A sad barely there smile shaped her lips as she lowered her gaze from his.

"I have no choice Blue Eyes. My ability makes me very valuable to any other human I'd meet. We are a selfish and arrogant species. This ability isn't common it is a myth to humans. I am the only one with this ability. Not possible to them. But the few other humans I have been around have all tried to use me for their own deeds. Around them I would forever be their puppet used for whatever they wanted." 

Thick silence settled over as the gravity of her words sunk into both apes. It was a silence they carried, it remained even when they found Sol's cave. Sol quickly got off the horse and made her way to it, hoping it was as undisturbed as when she left. Blue Eyes and Luca stayed on their mounts and kept a watchful eye. As soon as she spotted her stuff undisturbed a wave of relief washed over her. She made sure to grab her stuff quickly and head back to the group. Making her way back to them, she has to fight a grin at both of their curious looks. One more subtle than the other. The way back seemed slower than when they left but she found herself quietly enjoying the scenery. Out of her peripheral she could see the young prince's eyes remained glued to her belongings. Since she was relaxed she was thrown into severe panic when she heard the growl of a mountain lion bounding towards them. It was just a few yards away when she heard it. She searched the surrounding forest eyeing the trees intently and realized it was only a vision. The lion was twenty minutes away from crashing through the trees and causing trouble. Whispering quickly about what was coming she devised a plan with both apes, asking them to trust her. Blue Eyes and Luca both shared a long look before agreeing.

On Caesar's end, he was beginning to become agitated at the group's absence. He had been sitting and talking with Maurice when Rocket came over to them. Maurice had already begun to pick up on the Ape King's agitated mood. By that time he made up in his mind to go after them. Caesar signaled for both apes and a few others to come with him. Koba being one of them. At the unexpected plus one, both if his trusted apes looked at him in confusion. He did not look at either one but simply signed discreetly. 

(If I begin isolating him from the rest of us, he will begin to suspect something. We must act as if nothing has happened to change that.) 

Maurice thought this logic was reasonable and Rocket simply nodded as they headed off to find the missing trio. But in Caesar's mind it would be foolish to trust the girl based on words alone. She would have to prove that she could be trusted. They didn't survive as long as they did by trusting others with their fates. After all actions spoke louder than words... What would hers tell them?

Back on her end she had just shared the plan with both apes, one of which was not very fond of it at all. After telling them, they hid and Sol settled on her perch in a tree. But just as she did so, she put her hand out to stop towards the direction the apes were coming from. Minutes later they popped up, with an agitated Caesar leading the forefront. The Ape Kind took in her gun, where her body was facing, and the position she was in before she slightly turned her head towards them. The rest of the apes watched as she put a finger to her lips for silence then turned back towards the incoming lion. Koba however took one look at her gun and moved to attack her but Caesar grabbed him and shook his head. The bonobo looked at his leader and the girl in confusion until the snarl of a mountain lion was heard.

Her heart was in her chest and felt like she was choking on it as the minutes continued to pass. Like a mantra in her head all she kept repeating was don't miss. Sol aimed, held her position, then shot the beast in the head and flank. When the beast fell dead the rest of the apes screeched and hooted, surrounding the dead animal to look for themselves. Blue and Luca included. But only Caesar remained looking at her. Sol met his eyes with a high head, her eyes saying words that she didn't need to say with her mouth.

Do you trust me now?

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Nothing was said on the way back between Sol and Caesar. It felt kind of awkward though since she was riding with him. There were plenty of curious or excited glances from adolescents to her or the packs she carried with her. The way back yet again seemed very quick and once they got there Sol was surprised to see what looked like dinner time congregating.

As soon as she had got down from riding with Caesar, she found her way to a log and sat. Caesar dismounted and allowed the steed to be led away while he followed the mountain lion the females were going to prep. Sol smirked and went through her packs as a female chimp she knew as Rocket's wife came towards her. The ape watched her go through the bag and then caught the kindly smile of the woman. 

"Tinker...pretty name."

Tinker hooted in confusion at her and how she knew her name, but the woman simply smiled and place a finger against her lips. Maurice had approached and helped carry her stuff away to where he stayed. At the same time Koba, Stone, and Grey watched them from afar one in disgust and the other two in cool indifference. Discreetly he signed out his opinions on the new addition to the colony. 

(Why is Caesar allowing this human to stay with us?! This human is a trespasser! She could be planning to lead others here to kill us! Humans cannot be trusted!!)

Stone nodded but Grey's opinion was less distrustful and more insightful.

(Maybe or maybe not. It's probably best we watch her instead of trying to turn the colony against her yet. Give her time to make a mess.)

Koba lowly growled at Grey, but Stone was placating and signed.

(We don't think you are wrong but Grey is right Koba the time is not right yet. Give her time to mess up)

Koba went off somewhere to brood while Stone and Grey looked at each other.

Before she and Maurice could move it in however, Caesar came and shook his head motioning she come with him. He grabbed her packs and took them on their way to his hut. Sol found herself confused but decide to hold her questions until they were out of earshot. 

"I thought I was staying with Maurice?"

Caesar put down her packs against the wall and turned to her with a serious gaze.

(Maurice would not be able to stay around you often. He teaches the young and would frequently be out doing so or with me. Here no ape enters unless I know or am here. Koba cares little for Maurice's position and already tests my authority as is. I can keep an eye on you here.)

Sol nodded, understanding and thoughtful," What about Blue Eyes?"

(He will stay here and help watch over you when I cannot.)

"Okay. Oh um..I almost forgot! So, I wanted to run it by you first, but I have something I think could be good for your colony."

Curious yet subtle he came closer and watched as she pulled out odd little packages with pictures of food on the front. Automatically she placed one with a strange orange root and another with a different type of vegetable. She had been just about to say something else when her vision went dark. She couldn't panic and relied on what she could hear instead of see. It sounded like Malcolm. She could faintly hear the details of a conversation. A plan to restore power back by a dam. The conversation was muddled almost like listening through water. Eventually she heard the names of who would go. Preparing supplies to go. Then she heard a name. 

Carver.

Before she could think she spoke and knew without having to know that Malcolm could hear her. 

["Do not take Carver with you. He will ruin the whole operation. Under no circumstances must you take him with you."]

All of a sudden her vision was back and someone was shaking her arms. Someone... Caesar.

When he realized she was responding he released her but ran her sharp gaze over her in quick assessment. Wary but satisfied he leveled that serious stare at her as his gruff timbre rumbled out.

"What.. happened?"

Sol met his gaze with a seriousness that she felt would match his own she replied," They'll be coming tomorrow."

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Sol currently sat with the other females chimps, eating roasted fish and roots. Warily Tinker choose to speak with her.

( How do you know my name? Do not know you. Have never seen you before.)

Sol smiled and responded quickly to her question. "

"I asked your name. You seemed the most approachable to me."

Don't get her wrong she liked Tinker but she didn't like the idea of another ape knowing about her little gift. The more apes that found out the higher the risk of a leak. No one else could know.

The female ape huffed and signed again.

(Others just need to get used to you. Are wary of humans. Take time.)

"I know we are not the most liked to you all but you have had good reason not too. It is also why I came here."

Tinker was looking a little confused and was about to respond when her eyes looked over the woman's shoulder. Her smile faded and a firm look replaced it. The urge to turn around could not be ignored. So once she did she found Koba glaring at her. A quick glance  confirmed Caesar took notice. It took mere seconds before the bonobo realized Caesar's demeanor had changed. He immediately deflated and ambled off somewhere. The Ape King spared Sol a quick glance then returned to eating with the others.

The woman found herself relieved that no one else took notice of the stare down. Tinker and Sol talked a little more and was happy at the prospect of an ally among the apes. Well allies. She supposed with all they knew now they saw her as one as well. The sky was rapidly going from dusk to dark and the apes were all leaving to their huts. Night was approaching and with it was slight panic. She would have to sleep in his hut. The Ape King himself was intense as he was but sleeping in his hut with him would be another story.

Sol tried to calm down and mentally rationalize the situation. Maybe it wouldn't be that bad! Maybe she would have to sleep next to Blue Eyes instead. But she still wasn't too thrilled about that either. Trust is only given after it is earned. She had only been there for one day but she was sure that while she was a help trust still wasn't in the cards just yet. So what to do? 

Maybe she could determine the way this would go... Her eyes scanned the gathering yard around her and she knew she had to go. Too many apes had already left and the few who were just now leaving, were looking at her oddly. So she made her way slowly to Caesar's hut and when she walked in father and son were talking. She guessed it was private because they ceased once she walked in. She made her way to a spot against the wall and sat. Blue Eyes immediately went to her and began bombarding her with questions. Sol looked to Caesar for help and caught him huffing an amused chuckle.

Blue Eyes turned at the sound and Caesar signed light-hearted yet firm.

(Son, human is not like us. Get tired quick. Need rest. Let her be.) 

The prince looked sheepish and for a second Sol found herself feeling sorry for him but just that quickly he was fine again.

She watched as he went to his father again and began to sign.

( Father, I'm going to go to Ash. Sleep there.)

Caesar looked inquisitive.

(Why?)

Blue Eyes didn't respond but the Ape King got his answer when he looked over at Sol.

He felt there was more to his answer but nodded and watched his son lope off.

Caesar met her gaze and spoke with a sigh.

"Blue Eyes...not...like...this. I'm..sorry. Will talk...to him."

She gave a soft smile," It's okay Caesar. He's not used to me yet and that's okay. Give it some time."

When he next looked at her it was with a searching look.

"Cold?"

"Oh uh..no. I um...was going to sleep here."

"Why?"

"Because I..well I didn't want to be in the way of you and your son."

Caesar shook his head and pointed to a nest opposite of his.

"Son is..gone. Can..sleep..there."

So Sol settled down in Blue's nest and before dozing off thanked the Ape King for letting her stay. Though he said nothing back she knew he heard her.

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When she woke Caesar was already gone. It was like he could sense her nervousness and decided to leave her to it. Honestly she couldn't say that she wasn't relieved that he did. After a stretch Sol, grabbed some things and went to find Maurice. He had just finished teaching the adolescents and came over in his kind way. 

His eyes just always seemed to smile at you or read you before you could speak. Sol made sure to speak to him a little then she eased off and back into the woods. She hoped she wouldn't be noticed as missing if someone caught on. Or worse, if Koba saw her sneaking off from the colony. While she knew Caesar saw what Koba was really like she wasn't too sure trust was felt entirely towards her yet. Truth be told she wasn't sure how long it might be before it was. More had to be done. She would work for it. Earn it. But as of right now the need for a bathe was a necessary thing. Sol was honestly lucky to have come by as much deodorant and soap as she did. 

Relief was immense as she quickly hid her clothes and choose a spot that was ideal to bathe in. She made sure to be quick yet thorough but a vision like image flashed in front of her eyes. The scared face of a grimacing bonobo.The woman quickly sucked in air and hid under the water. She waited as she knew Koba was passing by over her head, searching for her with his two friends Stone and Grey. She waited one minute and twenty seconds before she grabbed her things and slipped away again. When she got back to the ape colony, Luca looked at her with uncertainty and slight distrust. 

He didn't sign but she could hear him ask in his head.

(Where did you go?)

"I left to go bathe Luca. You can trust me. Don't you smell the soap on me?"

Luca lowered his head sheepishly. Embarrassed and ashamed. Sol felt bad almost instantly for him and rushed to fix it.

"It's okay Luca. No harm done."

The moment he heard those words he relaxed and Sol smiled and went on her merry way. When she got back nothing seemed a miss. No one seemed to notice she left except three. One of them had met her gaze across the courtyard. Caesar. He was sitting with Maurice conversing when she guess he felt his gaze on her. He didn't snap his head towards her either. He slowly turned his head to meet her eyes. He didn't look angry..That was good.

Maurice was probably the reason for that right now. He looked expectant. Sol still felt kind of hesitant but she made her way over to him. Maurice nodded his head in his slow way and gave her a kind smile then he left her alone with Caesar. The Ape King waited for Sol to speak and when she explained where she was he huffed at her in amusement. The human woman was puzzled.

"What's funny?"

The Ape King began to sign quick and discreet.

(You are not a captive. Can leave to bathe if you wish. What you shown us about apes future was great. Could have used it against us. But you did not. Have no reason to believe you would betray apes.)

Sol gaped at Caesar, touched by his words. She was just about to go to grab the seeds she had brought when the hairs on the back of her neck stood on end.

Being watched again...

Immediately her head turned in the direction she felt the stare from and met a distrustful Koba, Stone and Grey. For a moment he was scowling at her but then he put on a smug look that sent chills down her spine. Caesar without a word stood and looked at Koba. He made sure to stand back a ways from Sol but his stance could not be missed. The girl was oblivious. Stone and Grey lowered their eyes, leaving from the Koba to elsewhere. Noticing Caesar behind her the bonobo turned away and went off somewhere. Confused Sol looked behind her to see Caesar slightly relax and meet her gaze. 

She had been about to thank him when she froze, her eyes looking beyond Caesar and into the future.

The Ape King took quick notice of her expression so he signed.

(What is wrong?)

Sol steeled herself then discreetly signed back.

(Malcolm and others are coming)

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Caesar made sure to seem unaffected but she could see the look in his eyes change. His eyes hardened just the tiniest bit and his posture straightened a little. In less than a few minutes Caesar had called a number of apes to accompany them. Koba made to follow but Caesar put out his hand to him and urged him to help keep watch here. Koba looked shocked and darted his gaze to Sol's. He looked between the human woman and Caesar then ambled off, a barely restrained grimace on his face. The Ape King had to refrain from slipping into alpha mode and reminding Koba of who held the reins here. Just because the human woman was here nothing changed. However if he said to stay, there should never be any opposing behavior from anyone let alone Koba. Caesar had kept them peacefully secure in their woods for ten years without human disturbances. That should say something about his leadership skills. 

A bubble of relief splashed over Sol after the bonobo left. Although she wanted to go to Caesar she discouraged herself from doing so. It would look and read as way too affectionate. Even though that would not be her intention. These apes were like people now, their leader more so than them. If she thought the others would jump to conclusions what would Caesar do?! Blue Eyes came over towards her confused and signed quickly. 

( What happened?)

"We're going to meet the humans in the forest."

Blue Eyes looked worried but knew to be subtle about it so Sol motioned him towards her.

"Listen Blue we're going to be fine okay. I promise Carter isn't in the group. I'll look out for everyone. Look I...I know I'm still a stranger to all of you and a human but not all of us are like Carter. I give you my word I'll keep everyone safe. Trust me."

Blue Eyes must have seen the determination on her face because he relaxed and nodded. Before he could walk off, Sol brought up her special task.

"Blue Eyes I have a special job for you and Ash."

Blue looked puzzled and surprised that she would ask him something that seemed so important but he guessed today was just full of neverending surprises.

"I want you and Ash to stay here and watch over the rest of the colony but I mainly want you to keep an eye on Koba. He talks freely around you and seems to trust you won't go to your father about him. When we get back you find me and Luca then tell us. Don't go to your father. If Koba sees that he will refrain from telling you anything anymore. Whatever you think is bad he tells you, you tell us. You tell Ash that Rocket wants him to help look after the colony while we go check the woods. But I want you to spy for me okay?"

The young prince looked at Sol with new eyes. Eyes of shock and amazement. He signed back subtle and quick.

(Me?!)

"Yeah you Blue! Someday this colony will be you responsibility. You have to learn strategy early if you're ever going to be a great leader."

The prince kept up an good appearance but she could feel his disappointment and heard him in his head.

Like my father....

"No Blue Eyes like only you can! That's why I'm giving you this job! Because I trust you will be just as good a leader as Caesar is for the colony! I believe in you! Remember that."

He winced when she spoke, still not used to her....gift.

Maurice had still been near enough to hear and fondly nodded his head at them both but mostly to Blue.

The adolescent needed to hear that but it was more bizarre to him that it came from a human instead of his father or Maurice. The orangutan hoped that the encouragement would leave a lasting impression on the prince. When they left Sol smiled knowingly at Maurice and he couldn't help but rumble and nod back. Maybe having a human edition to the colony wasn't as bad as they thought....

Chapter Text

It didn't take long before Caesar and the apes had caught up with Malcolm and his group. If she wasn't focused on the task at hand, Sol would have been distracted. The apes moved almost like one cohesive unit. As a matter of fact, while they moved, she barely heard anything that might alert others to their presence. When they caught up to them the humans looked alarmed. Ellie and Alex made sure to back away slowly, their eyes glued onto the mass of apes before them. Things had been a little tense on the way going but now things seemed to be very stand-offish. The men within the group held onto their guns like shields of safety. Caesar came down from the trees, his hand still aloft and halting attack but kept his eyes steady on all of them. Malcom's eyes now held fascination as well as fear and it was that potent combo that drove him to say what he did next.

"Lower your weapons."

 Caesar kept his gaze on them but subtly motioned with his head for her to come over.

Sol's heart was kicking in place but even under the adrenaline rush she obeyed and carefully moved upfront. Not in front of Caesar but just enough in sight that the other humans would spot her and relax. With the sight of her they immediately lowered their weapons.

It was weird for the humans to witness but Sol only had to look at the Ape King to know what he wanted. She turned back to the human group and spoke.

"All of you are trespassing. These woods are home to these apes. What business do you have here?"

Sol, Caesar, Maurice, and Rocket already knew but the rest of the apes didn't.

Malcolm spoke up hesitantly," We don't mean any harm. We come on a errand."

Caesar glanced from Malcolm to Sol as she came over to whisper to him.

"Errand means task or job."

 Caesar then spoke directly to Malcolm," What...errand?"

The human group visibly flinched from hearing the deep gravel of his voice ring out. The shock looked almost comical on their faces given the circumstances. Sol was fighting immensely to not remain serious. Malcolm hesitated to speak, casting worried glances around at the other apes.

"I...think it would be better to show you."

The trek there was a bit lengthy but overall not too strenuous. Sol was just glad she didn't have to struggle to keep up this time. When they came to the inside of the dam, Malcolm went to explaining quickly. It was a bit intimidating for Malcom so Sol smiled encouragingly as Caesar spoke. 

"What...is..this?"

Malcom jumped headfirst into explaining.

"I-It's a dam."

As Caesar and his advisory apes watched, Malcom began to point and explain about a certain machine. By the end of his explanation his look became imploring. Sol watched Malcolm quickly approach and felt for him.

"Do you understand any of this?"

Ceasar gave Malcolm a quick searching stare and when he found what he needed, his gaze softened.

"The lights."

A brief look of joyous relief overcame hesitation as he spoke,"Yes!"

But very quickly he was back to cautious.

"This is your home and I don't wanna take it from you, I promise but if you could allow us..let us do our work here then we'll be out of your way."

Caesar looked at his advisors then straight at Sol. It was clear he immediately had a clear decision in mind but he still wanted her opinion on the matter.

He signed for his advisors and her to come with him.

Motioning for Malcolm to stay here a leap of shock had the woman wondering.

Was she a friend with good advice or one of his advisors now?

Chapter Text

When they got far enough away Caesar held up his palm, prompting them to stop. All eyes are on him and it takes everything within Sol to not grin in glee. So Caesar finally signed, taking into account the humans around.

(All of us have seen what Sol has shown us. I see no reason to not let him and he is good human) 

Maurice and everyone one else nodded then Caesar shot his intense eyes to Sol. 

(Have you anything else to show?)

Sol shook her head a weird warmth beginning in her chest,"No but as a precaution it would be wise to swear them to silence. If word were to get out about what they discovered here then, others who blamed the apes could come. Just because they don't pose a threat doesn't mean one won't have an opening."

Maurice rumbled in agreement and Rocket nodded. Caesar regarded Sol with a steel poker face and agreed. So now the humans could only begin their work if they swore to keep silent about meeting the apes. It wasn't so much Malcolm, Alexander, or Ellie but the others she was more concerned about. From what she had seen they weren't bad people and had been cordial to the apes. But Caesar trusted Sol's judgement. Which was a feat in itself. The whole group swore without trouble and Sol now felt secure at least in that end. But she could tell without having to say it that Caesar had been relieved to not be the only one making the hard decisions. 

On Blue's end he had began to feel a little uneasy. Especially since Koba was before him demanding to know what his father was off doing. The ape prince did not think it wise to overthink the question and take too long to answer, or to not answer at all. Both decisions would suggest he knew more than what he was letting on. As he fought within himself to decide he felt like the human woman, Sol was there with him even though he knew she was not.  Don't look around. Keep eye-contact and tell him you do not know.

He could hear her in his head.... Blue didn't ponder it and did exactly as she told him to. Koba did look displeased but he didn't seem too angry at Blue. It wasn't so much he was afraid of the bonobo, it was that he didn't want a confrontation while his father was not there. The leader was supposed to handle uprisings not the prince.  Thankfully Luca knew Blue was alone and heard Sol's voice urge him to check on Blue. Luca did not have time to freak out or be shocked but he just followed her instructions. Luca stepped up beside Blue Eyes and Koba looked at the gorilla with a grimace. Luca said nothing but lead Blue away from Koba. Everything seemed back to peaceful until Koba's question rang out.

"Why did Caesar not take you Blue Eyes?! He leaves son to do nothing while he welcome the human girl with open arms! She has not been here longer than a few days and she has taken your place by him!"

Luca whipped around angrily and stalked towards Koba. 

"No!"

Caesar's voice rang out behind them and immediately Luca stepped away from Koba. Blue eyes himself had been startled but shocked to see his father back so soon. Just. In. Time.... The prince's eyes darted to Sol and she discreetly put her finger over her lips. The human woman herself was torn over whether to intervene or not. 

The entire colony seemed to pause in wait. Sol had to think fast...

Chapter Text

Koba tried not to look too shocked that Caesar was back so soon. Blue Eyes's nervous glance shifted from his father to undercover traitor and then Sol. Even as Caesar was making his way to Koba, the ape prince came over to her slowly but surely. She could tell he was nervous not scared. This had been the first time he was trusted with something so important. But to have a problem nearly break out was a little disheartening. Sol could hear that he was disappointed in himself. The ape prince's thoughts were all over the place. Sol placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder and whispered," It's ok Blue. You did amazing. You have to remember you can't control how anyone, only yourself. You are responsible for what you do not anyone else."

The prince snapped his head at her in shock but both their attentions were grabbed as Caesar made his way to Koba. Sol knew from the deliberate slow walk that Caesar was angry. His gait seemed calm but not quite right. Too calm. Blue seemed to tense and as Caesar approached, Luca wisely stepped away. Luca could pick up on the quiet hostility too. In very little time a crowd had formed. All was still as he reached Koba, the bonobo shrunk in submission.  

Caesar remained grimly piercing the offending bonobo with his gaze, watching as he hesitantly put out his hand. Sol was practically gnawing her bottom lip from nerves and hoping to high heaven a fight didn't break out. But this time was undetermined. The Ape King looked severe, his teeth bared and body alarmingly still. He glanced at the hand and painstakingly slow touched it. Koba was quick to get away the moment he received the touch. The collective sigh of relief felt like having a boulder roll off of your chest.

The collective relief was immense. Caesar remained the image of dominance until Koba was out of sight. Once he was gone the Ape King relaxed and made his way to his hut. All three of us watched him then glanced at each other in concern. Blue Eyes glanced at Sol and signed but before he could, the human woman placed her hand on his and shook her head.

Sol spoke without looking at either of them," We should give him some space guys. Let him calm down for a bit ok?" 

Luca grunted then headed back off towards his guard station. Blue waited then she addressed him,"Blue I know you don't have anything to report right now. We all heard what he said to you when we got back. Just keep a eye but don't approach him with time I know he will try to approach you again. Maybe when Caesar isn't around."

Blue nodded and then headed off to go find Ash and some of the other adolescent apes. Sol took a breath, squared her shoulders, and made her way over to the other female apes to help prepare food. Caesar walked away from the doorway to his hut and pondered over the events of today. One question he wasn't sure he wanted to examine or mark as coincidental was, what did she think of him now?

Chapter Text

When Sol made her way over to the female apes they glanced at her curiously. Instead of feeling a little lost she jumped right into a greeting. 

"Hey I came to help with the food."

Tinker huffed and Lake looked at her in surprise. It wasn't her job but here the human was volunteering..

Lake hooted and waved her over. The younger female seemed to be fascinated by her. Lake also hoped for some answers from her. It just didn't seem normal that their leader let her into the colony so easily. There was also the matter of their closeness...

A few of the female apes had picked up on it too but anyone who tried to voice such suggestions, was silenced with a look from Tinker.

Very few of the the males remarked on it or paid it any attention. But Maurice and Luca did notice it. Luca brushed it off as ridiculous and her being great council. Maurice thought so as well but he didn't think the notion of them becoming more ridiculous. He just said nothing as Luca did.

Lake didn't jump into hard questioning just yet but Sol had a feeling she would soon. Tinker worked alongside her as well and asked her a few light questions.

( Did you come from a human home to apes?)

Sol smiled sadly," No...my family was killed by other humans."

Tinker looked up in shock and came over where they worked. It got silent for a minute but then Lake hesitantly signed.

(Sorry...)

Tinker could now look at the human woman in a new light. Though she had been policing any attempts at scandalizing gossip, she herself felt that there was more she was hiding. Now she felt horrible.

"It's ok... I'm not hurt by it anymore I just miss them sometimes."

After a few seconds Lake hesitantly signed another question.

(Why do you wear bandage around hair?)

Sol smiled and shook her head,"It's a scarf I wear it sometimes to keep my hair out of my face or from messing up."

Lake grinned sheepishly and watched as Sol untied the scarf. Thick riotous curls fell over her face to her arms. A few others who watched hooted and huffed coming over to touch it. Sol herself couldn't restraint her smile and laughed. The awkwardness was forgotten and the ice was broken with the female apes. 

It was almost ironic but Caesar and Blue were walking by and when they heard the laughter turned towards them. Caesar's had a barely there smile and took in all of them together. It was these few instances where the Ape King was encouraged to keep peace. Not all humans are bad. Blue Eyes on the other hand went straight towards Lake to talk. He was almost scolded but Tinker and other waved her and him off. Attention to Sol was diverted but Caesar's was not. When she met his eyes, he kept the eye contact then left. 

Sol tried not to focus on it and turned her attention back to the female apes who began gibbering and grooming her. She couldn't quite figure it out but when he looked at her there was almost the beginnings of a faint warm there. But she pushed it aside and got back to work with the females, the ice now broken and a jovial atmosphere in place.

Koba had been far away but saw the interaction and grimaced in disgust. He had to find something that would break his trust with humans and have him back off from her.. Someone had to know something....

Chapter Text

Caesar found that on the way back to his hut, Maurice was making his way over to him. A faint smile touched his lips as his long time friend came to converse with him. He felt relieved at least that even he had an ear to listen to his burdens. It was a bonus that Maurice was normally great council as well. Once they found the secluded spot they normally sat at, they started to talk to each other. Maurice rumbled in his kind way and signed.

(Still mad?)

Caesar grumbled and signed back his response.

(Frustrated...Koba seems to challenge me constantly...now he does so with my son.)

Maurice nodded his shaggy head. He himself has also noticed increased rebellion within the bonobo that seemed to begin after the human woman arrived. He glanced at Caesar before he signed again, a point that he felt Caesar had to see.

(Your son is not who he would have been now. What Sol has shown us has changed us all to some degree.)

Caesar considered this and the faintest smile curved the corner of his lips. Now that Maurice had pointed it out, Blue Eyes did seem have changed. He would seem to put more thought into his actions and had become less impulsive and more watchful. Something the Ape King found himself taking pride in his. But he also noticed his son seemed a bit withdrawn from him. Guilty almost. He would converse with him but he kept it short. He'd decided he'd have a talk with him... 

Maurice watched him for a minute and then he signed.

(Thinking about the girl?)

Caesar glanced at him from the corner of his eyes then shrugged and nodded. Then he signed.

(First human to have such a gift? As far as we know no one else can do what she can....)

Maurice rumbled and nodded his shaggy head again. Signing with a new question.

(Do you think it is the virus? Few humans left most I believe died from it? )

Caesar thought on it then shrugged. But then he considered Maurice and signed.

(Maurice...for a while after what happened with Koba I worried what she thought of me. Of my actions.)

The orangutan raised his eyebrows and looked at his leader in shock but then he expression became understanding. Knowing now it was better to listen than speak. Caesar continued signed, his expression confused and ponderous.

(It feels like a while ago since Cornelia passed,.Do not understand why I care at all?)

Maurice hummed, considering his words. Then he signed a question. (Does it feel wrong?)

His leader's response wasn't immediate but after a beat he responded, his signing careful and considering.

(No..)

Maurice blew through his nose. (Then it's not .)

Caesar watched Maurice nod slowly then leave, an odd little smile on his face. On Sol's end she and the female apes were now in the courtyard passing out bowls of roasted meat and roots. She swore she spotted Blue and Lake sitting together with other adolescents and eating. Sol herself couldn't tamp down the lightness she felt and a smile bloomed on her face full and wide. While the feeling was great she felt what felt like eyes watching her. As she looked up her eyes met Caesar. One thing that misses his attention however is Koba, Stone, and Grey's absence.

Wonder what he's thinking on up there?

Chapter Text

Koba sneers at the sight of the other apes calmly eating with the human scum. Stone and Grey are none the wiser to his displeasure and continue eating. Just the thought that none of the apes mind her presence sickens him. What's even more sickening is that none of the apes he questioned told him anything! Ever since what happened with Blue Eyes everyone avoided him like some outcast. Perhaps paying to Caesar's weakness could be good...

If they are that docile around her then they all should be thrown back into cages!!Can they not see she is using them?! Can they not see she is pretending?! 

Eventually Stone notices his agitation and nudges Grey. Stone decides to initiate a conversation.

(Still angry about fight with Caesar?)

Koba snorts and grimaces.

(Caesar is too trusting of human girl. Will not listen to reason!)

After a beat, his grimace turns to calm much to quick to be coincidence. So Grey even though his is sure of the answer already, decides to ask. Before Grey can lift his hands Koba decides to let them in on the plan.

The thrill of victory feels imminent and with that feeling he begins to sign. 

(We will wait till they leave again and we are going to find proof that will make them see she is no good! Caesar has kept quiet about why she is still here with us. If I find evidence of a human city and show it to everyone I can accuse her of lying and she will have to leave!)

Stone and Grey couldn't help but feel surprised. They had to admit the plan sounded good. Full proof even except for one thing. 

Stone decides to point it out to him this time. (What if they come back while we're gone? Surely other apes will see and tell Caesar?)

Koba huffed with the hint of a grin curling at the ends of his mouth. 

(Have an place to slip out from. No one knows except me. We can slip away using that. It's unlikely I will be asked about if at least one of us goes back early. Normally I am seen with you two. They will think nothing.)

So both Grey and Stone accepted his plan and slipped away to their designated places. Bidding their time until morning came and the moment of opportunity was upon them. Koba had one last thought before leaving for his hut though.

If this does not work I will follow them until to where they run off to. Caesar has been unusually quiet and standoffish even before now. More specifically after the arrival of the girl.

He didn't let his train of thought get that far though so he decided to just focus on what he would do. 

Sol herself noticed that Caesar glanced at her once as he ate with his advisors. It kind of made her self conscious because her hair was not up in a scarf this time. She just got her food and was thinking about random things like if she wanted to do some matchmaking with Blue and Lake. There were kid apes that were grooming her while she ate. While the atmosphere felt nice there was a weird foreboding feeling. Eyes were staring at her in disgust but the expression worried her. Koba glaring came of no surprise but his expression was what made this time feel different. He had on a grimaced smile the very sight made the hair on the back of her neck stand on end. Though she was disturbed by it she made it a point to ignore him and focus on something else. 

He's up to something..

Sol found herself thankful that Caesar was in conversation and didn't notice. The next time Koba got out of line Caesar would have to fight him and physically put him in check or kill him. If he let Koba get away with insubordination for too long the rest of the apes's respect for his authority would disappear. However two apes did see. 

Blue Eyes had been talking with Lake when he noticed. Koba looking at Sol unpleasantly. He himself has to reign in his anger and urge to attack him. 

I don't care that you don't like humans! She's been and will be more of an ape to us than you ever will! He would've killed my friend and my father!!

Lake noticed he was agitated and tried to sign if there was something wrong. Blue Eyes smoothly made up something about not knowing if he had guard duty tonight. Lake took it as the truth and changed the subject. As they talked though he couldn't help but think Sol coming to the was good! He wasn't sure the direct reason for Koba's dislike but he hoped he'd leave her alone and forget it.

The other ape who witnessed the look was Tinker. She found herself angry at him. She understood, the spent most of her life in a cage too but there was still a difference between good and bad humans. Something she was learning quickly with every encounter with the human..no with Sol. The other females also felt at ease with her as did everyone else. So she reasoned that she'd look out for her from now on until Koba let this go. IF he could....

Chapter Text

The trek to the- no not the.. his hut seemed longer for some reason. Blue Eyes actually had guard duty so he was busy tonight. Everything seemed fine but instead of just heading off to sleep like she thought he would he sat and faced her. Sol felt weird because they didn't really talk as much. She guessed he was ready to change that tonight. 

His brow was low and his eyes looked hard.

He's....upset. Why is he upset? Did I do something already?

Sol didn't want to jump to conclusions so quickly and mentally assessed the situation and herself. As far as she knew, she hadn't done anything to jeopardize herself or the apes....

She tried to wait but she decided not to and just ask him," Are you ok Caesar? You uh...seem angry."

Caesar sighed then....spoke.

"Not angry....at you.Tired. Of Koba. He...challenges my leadership...often. What you....showed us....haunts me...still." 

Sol looked at Caesar fully lamenting but sure at the same time," I'm....I am sorry but it had to be done. His actions were what lead to not only you, your son, and the death of countless apes, but it left the line of leadership unclear."

His response was a thoughtful look then a resounding hum then his attention darted to something behind or around...her.

The Ape King touched her hair lightly with an amused yet subtle smirk," Soft....human hair..... different...from apes fur."

Sol grinned," Not all human hair is the same. Some human hair is silky, some is like wool, some looks and feels like a cloud."

Caesar took this in with interest but pulled his hand back as his expression became purposeful.

"Had...another dream?"

She shook her head," But I feel as if I'll have one tonight."

Caesar nodded and moved to head to sleep when what Sol spoke to him froze him in place. 

"Also what you did today with Koba. How you responded....I think you did the right thing."

Sol didn't give him time to react to it and turned to sleep, feeling his eyes drilling into her back. While her back was turned the corners of his mouth turned up in a subtle grin. 

Good... trustworthy like Will....

Having a human like her, a clear head would always be had with an extra head to provide good council. Then the Apes King turned aside to sleep too. As Sol had assumed this dream was a recount of Koba's plan. She saw him give her that chilling smile and then came the plan. The feeling that came was agitation. Then apprehension. This plan was two fold. Yes, the plan to find a human city was bad, but what was worse was what he didn't speak. Immediately the scene changed and became the...dam? Koba, Stone, and Grey came but the two hung back while the bonobo took in everything angrily. There he would confront Caesar and... challenge his authority for the last time. Caesar would kill him without another thought, anger fueling him on....The only problem presenting itself now was ..which would be first? But should she show Caesar... What is going to be his first move? If she told him the plan about the human city, his focus would be on countering against that instead. The problem would arise if Koba decided to first show up at the dam, catching Caesar uniformed. Sol did trust his judgement but she worried if he would go through with killing the bonobo. Would his conscious be clear when the time came to set him straight. 

As uncomfortable as Sol felt about being unsure, she would have to wait and see. But one thing she was sure of was that when the time was right, the answer would show itself to her. Then she'd move from there. But first she really craved a good bathe.

Chapter Text

Morning came finally and Sol grabbed a bar of soap, change of clothes, towel, and a gun from her pack. Luck seemed to be on her side because it was one of those days that boasted a comfortable temperature. She wrapped the gun in her clothes and went off to find the river. Since it was still yet early in the day, the timing was perfect. Caesar wouldn't leave just yet, or...would he? Not likely, without her showing but if she came back too late she knew he would be gone already. She felt reckless now that she thought about it. Her retreat was so hasty that she neglected to check if anyone was following her. She trusted instead that she wasn't and went to bathe at the river. Though it was still early, Sol felt oddly troubled. There was.... something else. It was like having a puzzle without the last piece. This apprehension went beyond what she knew....Her gut had be telling her to wait but instead she dried off, dressed, then head back to the Ape colony. The feeling of unease still had not left so Sol found herself rushing to get back to all of them.

Please be safe! Please be safe! Please be safe!!

While she repeated this mantra in her head, she ran through every memory and dream trying to find that piece. But.....no....it wasn't anything from the past....it was present or about to be. 

Once she reached the colony again she passed Luca on the way in. Luca noticed her demeanor and took in her face, feeling something was off with her. After quickly switching guard, Luca lumbered after her subtle but quick and very much mindful of the other apes around him. On the way Sol bumped into Koba who snarled and pushed her back into Luca. For a split second, Sol knew Koba saw the vision of him fighting Caesar at the dam. He paused in confusion before moving on, Luca rumbling a warning at him. Sol froze but then moved towards Caesar's hut, Luca directly behind her. As Sol went Blue Eyes looked on and subtly followed to Caesar's hut. She found herself glad that once they got there, Caesar had been inside playing chess with Maurice using hand carved pieces to play. He look up at her, concentration momentarily broken as he took in her face no longer guarded and....pale. 

Maurice turned to look at the human female also noting her rich dark brown skin looked a shade to pale, sickly. Then he took in her face. Something was wrong... Blue Eyes impatiently made a noise, worry making him feel on edge. Caesar's eyes took on that fierce look and he rose from his spot on the floor, walking in his way towards the apprehensive female. 

His eyes dilled into hers as he rumbled in his deep timbre. 

"What....happened?"

Sol lowered her head in shame and self loathing, speaking in hushed tones,"He..Koba saw..."

There was a brief moment of confusion that passed on Caesar and everyone else's faces before she continued on. 

"I did have another dream last night..it was of what Koba planned to do. But there were two possibilities he would go with. I just don't know which. So I didn't tell you."

Blue Eyes shifted as he listened and Luca rumbled behind her, Maurice looked at her with kind encouragement and so she took a breath before she went on. 

"The first plan was to find a human city, the second was to follow us to the dam. He saw the second."

Caesar nearly bristled at the first plan but the second one..was not good either but before responding he let her continue hesitantly?

"And Caesar, you two fought...and you killed him."

There was the bad part....

Chapter Text

Time seemed to stand still once she admitted the disturbing news to him. Blue Eyes looked determined and Maurice looked thoughtful while Luca looked relieved. Everyone turned to Caesar as he processed Sol's words. Caesar's mind was running a mile a minute, processing everything. Koba's growing disrespect, what the future held that Sol shared, but most importantly.... His eyes darted over to his son....further down the years. What awaited the future King of the Apes if he decides wrong. From Sol's eyes he wasn't worried, he looked iron willed in the face of uncertainty and seeing this calmed her immensely. She had forgotten. While it was a great advantage to know the future, before knowing about any of that, Caesar was still a very capable leader. Yet knowing that apart of her still wondered. Blue Eyes looked at his father worriedly, hooting slightly to get his attention. Caesar looked over at her son and cemented his decision internally.

He lifted his hand to dismiss the rest of them with a gruff yet final," Leave...us."

Sol followed the others on there way out by was stopped short by the Ape King's clear call of her name. Blue Eyes looked back but followed the others out as Maurice put a kind hand on his shoulder, soothingly rumbling and leading him away. Sol's heart kicked up it's beating as she moved towards Caesar in trepidation. He easily picked up on the woman's nervousness, she was refusing to meet his gaze and wringing her hands almost guiltily. He looked at her with an unreadable expression and signed.

(You know future..know much..)

Sol nodded as confusion was slowly taking the place of nervousness but she waited and let him continue. He signed again with a pondering expression.

(I do not. But without knowing.... future. I have led apes well....for ten years. Your gift..important help but can not replace wisdom. Understand?)

The meaning she caught from his words was quick and almost immediately a laugh spilled forth from her lips. Caesar found himself confused and for a quick moment offended. Luckily the human woman managed to notice the slight hardening of his gaze. 

"No no...I...I'm sorry Caesar. I only laugh because what you just told me...I came to that same idea just before. I don't laugh to belittle you. I really do appreciate your kind words though.."

For a moment the atmosphere in the room shifts from tense to light-hearted. A sense of camaraderie takes over and an odd subtle half smile just barely curves Caesar's lips. Immediately a rush of joy and... something sweeter but unknown runs through Sol, kicking up her heart rate. She smiles brightly and for the most part she is encouraged, a look of determination blazing within her expression. Something that Caesar appreciates and admires about the human female. 

{ Pretty...}

The stray thought catches Caesar off guard but he isn't entirely disturbed by it. Sol is very attractive even though she is a human... Caesar wasn't as averse to the thought as he would've been if he weren't raised around humans. They were... different from female apes... Soft with curves...and in Sol's case she was both of those things. But what Caesar was beginning to like was her skin. It was a rich deep brown and when the sun hit against it, it would almost glow. Staring at her now he wanted to touch it... 

Sol shifted as she noticed Caesar's gaze change to become.... different. There was a flicker of something there... something heated. His fingers twitched lightly at his side but the moment was broken as he noticed Blue Eyes's light hoot near the entrance of the hut. Both their heads turned towards him as he became sheepish, embarrassed at interrupting their conversation. Caesar turned back towards her, his mind focused as his eyes took on that steely look. He gave her a nod and left out of his hut to meet the other apes who would be accompanying them to the dam. 

Sol was now left alone with Blue Eyes and after careful inspection of his demeanor, she was relieved he did not pick up on the questionable moment earlier. Blue slowly approached her with a now worried look. 

Instantly she moved into protective mode and approached Blue Eyes with a soft measured tone.

"Blue? What's wrong..."

Sol knew she could have easily figured it out by her...gift...but she felt it was important to let the young prince express his concerns instead. The adolescent ape looked at the human woman who had come to mean more to him than anyone else had in a short time. He signed instead of speaking, not wanting to voice his doubts aloud. 

(Sol...I sorry about my father and Koba. The..dam..if Koba now knows then what will happen to then? He was nearly killed by him before...I..)

Sol's heart ached for him and without thinking about it she engulfed the Ape prince in a tight warm hug. At first Blue stiffened but then he relaxed and embraced her back, calming some from the comfort of the caring gesture. She let go after a while then smiled softly at Blue. 

"Listen Blue...so far your father has done fine without me here. Trust him. I know you all saw and remember what I showed you but as your leader, have faith in him. As your father, trust him..before you came you saw how smart he was even then. Just because he's older and a little sentimental doesn't mean he's lost his ability to lead or think. He's got this...I promise with all of our help, he'll continue to have it. Understand?"

Blue drew in a deep soothing breath and nodded, his look of worry washed away and replaced with steely determination. Almost mirroring his father's. Sol couldn't have felt prouder. She nudged him with her arm and smiled.

"Now come on, let's go join your Dad."

As she led him with her, she couldn't help but wonder if this new shift was a good thing...but remembering her promise she made in the beginning answered that question. 

Without a doubt, it was.