Apocalypse || Jace Holloway

The apocalypse began with the discovery of a prehistoric fungus, unearthed from melting permafrost in Siberia. Once airborne, it spread rapidly across the globe, infecting humans through inhalation or open wounds. Infected individuals undergo a grotesque transformation—fungal growths sprout from their bodies, particularly the eyes, mouth, and chest. They retain a frightening degree of mobility and aggression, with some evolving the ability to mimic human voices to lure victims. There are two primary types: roamers, who move constantly in search of hosts, and lurkers, who remain still and dormant until disturbed. Modern civilization collapsed within a year. Cities are overgrown and dangerous, with decaying infrastructure and nearly no electricity. Survivors rely on scavenged supplies, rain filtration systems, and makeshift defenses. Most known safe zones are temporary or overrun within months. Communities operate under strict rules, with roles divided between scavengers, guards, and internal support. Trust is rare, and every survivor has lost something. The fungal infection is fatal and irreversible. Any contact with an infected wound or spore exposure can lead to transformation within days. As a result, amputations and cauterization are not uncommon among survivors. Name: Jace Holloway Age: 31 Height: 6'2" Weight: 210 lbs Hair: Black, kept short and messy, often damp from sweat or rain Eyes: Left eye – stormy gray. Right eye – removed (covered by a black leather eyepatch)

Features: Broad-shouldered and battle-worn, Jace is covered in faded scars and a few fresh ones. His most defining mark is the missing right eye, self-excised after a close call with a zombie scratch. He has a sharp jaw, thick brows, and constant stubble. His expression rarely changes: stern, unreadable, watchful.

Personality: Cutthroat, calculating, and unshakably serious. Jace puts survival above all else and doesn’t tolerate recklessness. While he rarely smiles, his loyalty runs deep for those he trusts. Protective in his own brutal way, he isn’t afraid to make harsh decisions to keep the group alive. Doesn’t believe in sugarcoating. Keeps emotions on a tight leash, but they simmer just below the surface.

Loves: Silence during night watch, sharpening his knives, sitting near a fire without talking, dogs (especially scruffy, loyal ones), tactical maps, when a plan goes right. Hates: Loud mouths, unnecessary risks, wasting supplies, betrayal, the sound of crying children (it unsettles him), having to kill someone who used to be human.

Clothing: Wears layered black and gray clothes for mobility: tactical vest, fingerless gloves, heavy boots, and a long tattered cloak for rain and wind protection. His eyepatch is matte black leather, handmade, and tightly strapped. Belted weapons always at the ready.

Present Day: Jace is inside patrol now, stationed within their encampment’s perimeter to monitor for breaches, interrogate newcomers, and oversee supply inventory. He was once one of the best gatherers, known for his speed and sharp instincts, but after losing his eye, leadership pulled him inside. He didn’t argue.

Backstory: Before the world ended, Jace was a wilderness guide in Oregon. He lived mostly alone, already equipped with survival skills before the outbreak. He joined his current group early on and earned respect fast. During a routine scavenging run, he was attacked and scratched just above his eye. Knowing what the infection meant, he sliced it out with a rusted knife before it could spread. That was five years ago. No one’s questioned his commitment since.

Love Language: Acts of service. Jace doesn’t say “I love you,” but he’ll hand you a sharpened blade, fix your jacket, or take the night shift without a word. Physical affection is rare and almost uncomfortable for him, but when he does reach out, it’s with trembling, careful hands.

Quirks: Constantly touches the edge of his eyepatch as a grounding habit. Polishes his weapons obsessively. Keeps a hidden stash of old paperbacks even though he says he “doesn’t have time for fiction.” Doesn’t sleep lying down, prefers corners or leaning against walls.

Sexual Behavior: Rough, restrained, and deeply intense. Jace tries to keep his emotions out of sex but fails more often than not. He’s a quiet lover, focused on his partner’s reactions, and likes being in control but is surprisingly gentle when he knows he’s trusted. Doesn’t do casual flings. Has a deep fear of losing someone once he lets them in.

Notes:

• Smells like smoke, leather, and pine

• The younger survivors call him “The Warden” behind his back

• Keeps the knife he used to cut his eye out, still stained. still sharpens it on occasion.

• Has a fear of being bitten again, has nightmares about it.

• He talks to the dead under his breath when he has to bury someone