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Fireflies

2026-02-01T20:19:18Z

Harry: /* Notable Members */

[[Category:Notable Groups]]
[[file:fireflies1.png|thumb|''“Always Hope.”'']]

==Overview==

'''The Fireflies''' are a revolutionary group who oppose the banditry and lawlessness of Chernarus. Their long term mission is to bring an end to the apocalypse and rebuild a functioning democratic civilization. They fight for justice, inspiring bravery and hope in those who fight alongside them. The group initially began on [https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/ghm6fi/group_introduction_the_fireflies/ May 11th 2020], and after a 5 month disappearance reformed on [https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/t5qz1y/the_fireflies_group_reformation_announcement_ooc/ March 3rd 2022]. The Fireflies can still be found around every corner today, ready and willing to avenge the innocent.

==Alignment==

The Fireflies are considered to be '''Lawful Good'''. Since their inception they have walked the line of more or less lawful behaviour. In its earlier days the group was far more uncompromising as opposed to their more pragmatic attitude later on. Their goals and values, however, have always remained purely good; striving for a better future, and protecting the innocent.

==Appearance==

The Fireflies often wear a combination of civilian clothing with tactical equipment, providing a friendly appearance while maintaining the ability to be well equipped in a fight. They can also be identified by their yellow armbands, which sometimes have black firefly symbols painted on them.

[[file:fireflies2.png|framed|center|''An average looking Firefly standing guard inside their compound.'']]

==Origins==

The Fireflies were created by founder and leader Harry Churches on May 11th 2020. After living with the [[Black Cross]], [[Harry Churches]] created the Fireflies with a vision for the future, concluding that civilised society could only return if people are willing to fight for it. With the original five members Grisha, Bricks, Lynx, Matt and Jacob being inspired by that vision, the Fireflies made Pusta their home and began their mission for a brighter tomorrow.

==Territory==

[[file:fireflies3.png|framed|right|''The borders of the Fireflies.'']]

The Fireflies hold a historic claim in the southeast, exerting a dominant presence over Elektrozavodsk and Pusta especially. These places are their home, though the group has been known to become nomadic to allow for more versatility in wartime.

'''Pusta'''

Pusta on the surface is a small ordinary farm town, however it has for a long time been where the Fireflies have called home. The Fireflies saw an advantage to living in the quiet town, as it made the perfect staging location to build up their forces in their early days and help any desperate people on the coast.

'''Elektrozavodsk'''

Being the nearest city to Pusta and a great place to plan loot routes, the Fireflies have held a territory claim over the city of Elektrozavodsk on and off. The Fireflies claimed the town with the goal of quelling the chaos of the coastal city, and potentially making it a safe place to one day set up a community.

==Goals==

The Fireflies exist primarily to make the world a safer and better place, and as a result the group has many goals which they believe will help them accomplish their mission.

The Fireflies have the following main objectives:

* To deal out swift and fair punishments to the criminals of Chernarus.

* To bring justice and reparations to those wronged by the criminals of Chernarus.

* To insight revolution against the oppressive, belligerent, & antagonistic factions of Chernarus.

* To protect and support others who help innocents and combat banditry.

==Values==

The Fireflies are a group founded on the principles of justice, bravery and hope, as a result the values that would make a good Firefly reflect this.

The Fireflies value the following:

* The bravery to stand up for others in danger and not turning a blind eye.

* The hope and vision for a better and safer Chernarus.

* The ability to discern right from wrong.

* The willingness to die for your morals.

==History==

After the Fireflies were founded and made Pusta their home they would meet their first allies and neighbours, a group known as [[Torchwood]]. The Fireflies and [[Torchwood]] initially fought on the same side, having mutual enemies in some small-time bandit groups. After their enemies had been done away with however, the Torchwood & Fireflies alliance would soon follow.

On August 3rd 2020, [[Cain the Messiah]] - the leader of Torchwood - and other members arrived at the Fireflies compound with a child in handcuffs, and offered to sell the child for a price while only one firefly recruit by the name of Matt was on duty. There are many rumours and contradicting stories as to what happened next but the prevailing story is that Matt, the one day second-in-command of the Fireflies, gunned down all of the Torchwood members and freed the girl in handcuffs. After this incident, Torchwood tore through the Fireflies compound the next day and left demands for [[Harry Churches]]’ cooperation in the execution of Matt. Harry and the Fireflies would refuse these demands however, believing Matt had done the right thing. This led to a vicious war between the two groups, during which the Fireflies became briefly nomadic and many lives were cut short on both sides.

Eventually, [[Dark as Midnight]] would interrupt the conflict by burning down the Mogilevka church in which Torchwood resided. Without a safe home, Cain and his group went on the run. In the coming months, the Fireflies would hunt down any Torchwood members in an attempt to kill Cain so that Matt’s life would no longer be at risk. During this period, the Fireflies discovered where [[Torchwood]] had taken refuge and massacred the [[Torchwood]] members who were home in a surprise attack - leaving a note calling for Cain's arrest. Although a tenuous truce was brokered in a diplomatic meeting hosted by the [[Black Cross]], it would not be the last of the fighting between the two groups.

A month after the truce was brokered, the [[Black Cross]], at the time mutual friends of the Fireflies and [[Torchwood]] would be attacked by [[Dark as Midnight]]. In response to this the Fireflies decided to cut off DAMN on their way back to [[Gorka]]. [[Torchwood]], having heard of the plan, decided to agree to work together to avenge their friends at the aid station. Though the raid was not a complete success, the two groups were able to leave with reparations for the stolen items from the [[Black Cross]], and Cain and Matt were able to have a brief conversation during the fighting in which the two showed mutual respect for each other and put their personal rivalry to rest.

About a year after the war, in summer of 2021 [[Harry Churches]] had noticed general morale was low among the people of Chernarus. Many friends both inside the Fireflies and out were expressing a feeling of hopelessness. It was soon after this that Harry delivered a famous speech known as the [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22znTEr_lZY “Always Hope”] speech. This speech can be found as a tape around Chernarus, and carries the message that no matter who you are and what you’ve done, it is never too late to do the right thing, and that together one day the people will restore civilization.

It was around this time that a young boy named Bobby River, a former Firefly and son-like figure to Harry Churches who had left for [[Torchwood]], arrived in Pusta. Soon after he arrived he was once again on good terms with the Fireflies after a conversation with Harry Churches. Bobby then left Pusta to attempt to bridge another gap between him and Torchwood which had come about since he’d left their group also, however [[Torchwood]] were not as forgiving and the Warden ordered the child to be shot in the chest.

[[file:Upfront_Coalition.png|thumb|600px|right|''The first meeting of the Upfront Coalition in Pusta.'']]

Bobby came to the Fireflies for help, who were able to remove the bullet and save his life thanks to some skillful surgery. The Warden’s actions enraged Harry, reigniting the rivalry between Torchwood and the Fireflies when he threatened Torchwood over what they’d done. After this Cain and the rest of Torchwood arrived at the gates of Pusta demanding that Harry Churches revoke his threat, but after refusing to do so, and hours of arguing, eventually Torchwood stormed the compound and in the ensuing battle Acolyte Peter was killed by [[Harry Churches]]. While Torchwood did succeed in taking the Firefly compound, it was at a high price due to [https://youtu.be/xzTTsipws18 Peter’s death].

Some time later in the winter of 2021 [[Harry Churches]] left the Fireflies and Chernarus, fleeing to Takistan. Without his leadership the faction dissolved, with many members of the faction at the time dispersing across all of Chernarus. In early 2022, however, Harry returned from [https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/se9znt/the_deserts_first_lesson/ the desert] after learning of Esther’s death and reformed the Fireflies on a quest for revenge against the groups involved. The subsequent correlation between his personal crusade and the new decisions and policies of the Fireflies being far more brutal and calculated was no coincidence.

The Fireflies spent nearly a year from March 3rd, 2022, quietly regaining power. Nomadic and shadowy, they covertly attacked their enemies. After building up their strength, the Fireflies began fighting to retake Pusta from the [[Pirates of Pusta]]. The Fireflies captured their leader, [[Captain Biscuits]], in a final battle on July 22nd, 2023.

In September 2023, the Fireflies joined a growing conflict against the [[Masquerade]], a roaming band of mime themed psychopaths and raiders. Many groups in South Zagoria were already struggling with them, and through the diplomatic efforts of a survivor named Ego, several factions formed what became the Upfront Coalition. The Coalition brought together four uneasy partners: The Village, the [[Wolves of Selene]], the [[Boys of Brena]], and the Fireflies.

This war was where [[Pete Roberts]], a member of the Fireflies, distinguished himself, catching Harry's eye. He became the new right hand of the group soon after. Despite internal tensions, the Coalition united against the Masquerade and succeeded in eradicating them, and driving the surviving members from Chernarus by the end of the year. The Coalition dissolved immediately after its victory.

On February 13th, 2024, Harry executed the defeated [[Captain Biscuits]] in a public event held by the Fireflies. The [[Forsaken Loyalists]] attacked, attempting to free the Captain, but were driven off. That same day, Firefly Carter apprehended [[Oz]], leader of the [[Wizards]], and transferred him to [[Bobs]] of the [[Black Sheep]], who executed [[Oz]] in Pusta.

That same month, tensions arose between the Fireflies and the [[Lost Legion]], a communist faction to the north, after the Fireflies found out the Legion had constructed an outpost between the settlements of Mogilevka and Pusta, within an area the Fireflies considered their territory. A meeting between the groups’ leaders failed to resolve the disagreement, with the Legion disputing that the structure lay within Firefly land, and claiming that it was benign. Although both sides agreed that the outpost could remain so long as it did not expand, relations remained strained in the following weeks.

[[file:Biscuits_Death.jpeg|thumb|600px|left|''[[Captain Biscuits]]’ execution inside the Fireflies’ compound.'']]

The situation escalated in April of 2024, when Firefly Abe was shot during a diplomatic visit to the [[Lost Legion]]’s compound. The Fireflies accused the Legion’s leader of assaulting Abe during a discussion without provocation. In response, the Fireflies seized the disputed outpost, reporting that it contained weapons, ammunition, and other equipment in contrast to earlier Legion statements. The incident resulted in a complete breakdown of relations, with the Fireflies declaring the site under their permanent control and issuing warnings of further action should hostilities continue in an announcement titled the “[https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/1c4gkai/fireflies_announcement_lost_legion_portfolio/ Lost Legion Portfolio]” written by [[Harry Churches]].

Shortly after a new threat emerged, a group named the [[Blackthorn Gang]], led by [[Alastor Blackthorn]]. The gang were extortionist, and resorted to murder and brutality to coerce other communities of survivors into providing a steady stream of food and other supplies. Naturally this led to a war between the two groups. The war initially went very badly for Fireflies, with many Fireflies being captured and held hostage, notably Carter, who was dangled from the roof of an apartment building and held for ransom. A Firefly named Irish developed severe PTSD and guilt after leading a failed raid during the war. After this Harry and Irish became close friends, being able to relate to each others’ sense of loss and regret, the two would develop into a ruthless duo. Eventually, the group rallied, and delivered several heavy blows to the gang. As the war raged on over the following months a peace talk was attempted in April, however it ended in violence and any hope to end the war was gone.

In June of 2024, as retaliation for [[Oz]]’s death, Firefly Bart was captured and tortured by the [[Wizards]]. Tragically, this led to Bart's untimely death. The [[Wizards]] twisted Bart’s mind and brought him to Pusta. Bart didn’t even recognize the Fireflies as he mumbled nonsense before self immolating in front of them. Bart was buried at a pond to the west of Pusta, and the pond, which was called “Bart’s Pond” from then on, became the place where the Fireflies buried their fallen.

On 27th July 2024, the Fireflies confronted [[Mike Callahan]], a former [[Blackthorn Gang]] member who had defected. Harry, having witnessed the pain and death caused by men like Mike, saw only danger in granting him any leniency. Mike’s refusal to surrender information on his former group enraged Harry, to him, it was the ultimate display of cowardice, a man choosing bonds of cruelty over accountability. The rest of the Fireflies, led by [[Pete Roberts]], argued for a path of redemption, believing even a man like Mike could change. Harry could not reconcile this hope with the reality he had seen too often. Evil rarely surrendered, and mercy too often enabled it. The disagreement revealed a fundamental rift, Harry could no longer stand among those who believed hope alone could safeguard the innocent.

On 4th August 2024, [[Harry Churches]] resigned as leader of the Fireflies, leaving [[Pete Roberts]] to guide the group with a renewed focus on hope and redemption. Harry felt his hardened outlook and ruthless methods no longer fit that direction, so he walked away. Irish in particular struggled with his departure, beginning to hallucinate Harry and becoming increasingly unstable.

Due to the endless attacks by the [[Wizards]] and [[Blackthorn Gang]], the [[Overlook]], the [[Woodsmen]] and the Fireflies decided to create an alliance to defend the South-East. It was coined The Southern Shield, however this alliance did not last due to growing tensions between the Fireflies and the [[Woodsmen]], after the latter had begun to work with groups like the [[Forsaken Loyalists]]. The [[Woodsmen]] announced their “Guns Down, Gloves Up” fight night event which took place on January 4th, 2025. Despite the expressed concerns of the Fireflies, the [[Woodsmen]] hired the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] as security and the relationship between the two allies quickly began to deteriorate.

[[file:IrishandHarry.png|thumb|600px|right|''[[Harry Churches]] and Irish helping a survivor shortly before Harry’s departure.]]''

After multiple failed attempts to convince the [[Woodsmen]] that hiring the biker gang as security would set a dangerous precedent, the event went forward as planned. While the Fireflies officially abstained from the event to demonstrate disapproval, Firefly Misha infiltrated the event undercover with a mission to get everyone on the radio while [[Pete Roberts]] broadcast a message condemning the event. What Misha saw inside was inexcusable to the Fireflies. Murder, cannibalism and robbery were reported, all under the [[Woodsmen’s]] roof. Given the previously good terms the two groups had been on, [[Pete Roberts]] was hesitant to declare war.

On January 7th, 2025, clowns from the [[Dark Carnival]] arrived in Pusta to kidnap a survivor. A Firefly named Ed stood his ground alone and outnumbered, protecting the survivor. As the lead clown pulled his gun, [[Harry Churches]] intervened from the shadows by firing a rifle shot that hit the clown in the head. A gunfight ensued, and the clowns were repelled. Thanks to the two the survivor escaped, and Harry vanished into the forest once more.

Talks continued with the [[Woodsmen]] in the hopes that they would take accountability for their mistakes. Relations would continue to spiral after a massacre at the [[Overlook]] which Gideon was directly responsible for by informing the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] of who was present at the community camp. The Woodsmen’s transgressions could no longer be ignored and Firefly Constable, Ed, immediately launched a portfolio to inform the public, titled the “[https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/1knond6/fireflies_announcement_woodsmen_portfolio/ Woodsmen Portfolio]” in May of 2025. At this point, action had been taken but the Fireflies still refrained from a direct war, offering the [[Woodsmen]] a path toward peace instead.

Weeks after this, the Woodsmen made their move, launching an ambush on the Fireflies with help from the [[Dark Carnival]] in Chernogorsk. The Woodsmen’s attempt to kill all of the Fireflies in one fell swoop failed, but this attack finally led to a war between the two groups. A few days after this the Fireflies discovered something that would change their view of the Woodsmen forever. The Fireflies passed by Bart’s Pond to pay their respects and found his desecrated remains stuffed inside a trash bag. Wade of the [[Woodsmen]] personally signed a note inside the bag, threatening the Fireflies, and telling them not to leave garbage in their territory again.

During one fateful night, the group encountered Everett Reed, who had somehow survived the wounds he suffered during the Blackthorn raid on the previous incarnation of his group the [[Lost Legion]]. The man who returned, however, was markedly changed, and the group, now under his leadership, had rebranded itself as the Last Legion. The new group quickly became a disruptive presence in the South, driven by a fanatical vision to eradicate evil at any cost, even if innocents became collateral.

Reed and his Legion presented a compelling mirror to the Fireflies, frequently forcing them to reevaluate their own actions. Although they appeared to be indiscriminate killers at first glance, closer examination revealed a faction genuinely striving to shape a better world, albeit through twisted and uncompromising means. [[Pete Roberts]], and Reed shared many conversations where they debated the merits and flaws of each other's philosophies.
The tension between the groups culminated on 26th August 2025, after Firefly Santiago lost control and attempted to massacre several Legion members, including Reed, inside Hope’s Rest. The attack led to Firefly Juri’s capture, a public trial for Santiago, and a revision of the Fireflies’ rules of engagement to ensure this could never happen again. Santiago was found guilty of unreasonable use of force, disobeying a direct order, and remained under close watch. Juri remained a hostage of the [[Lost Legion]] for more than a week, but upon hearing Santiago’s verdict, Reed agreed to return Juri, handing him over the night after the trial. Ultimately, repeated raids against the Legion from their many enemies contributed to their collapse, bringing the conflict to an end.

The war between the Fireflies and the [[Woodsmen]] had dragged on for many months, with the Fireflies attacking the [[Woodsmen]]’s base. Eventually, the [[Woodsmen]] agreed to two of the Fireflies’ three demands: relinquishing Bart’s Pond and publicly denouncing the [[Forsaken Loyalists]]. The third demand was Wade's admission of what he’d done to Bart along with an apology, however this never came. Following this, a tense peace was found in September of 2025 between the [[Woodsmen]] and the Fireflies, with the exception of Wade. The Fireflies made it clear that should they catch Wade alone, they intend to execute him for his crimes.

[[file:PeteRobertsBody.jpeg|thumb|600px|left|''[[Pete Roberts]]’ wrapped up body at Bart’s Pond.'']]

[[Pete Roberts]] was patrolling the town of Solnichniy with other Fireflies on October 28th, when he and Santiago were ambushed and captured by the [[Forsaken Loyalists]]. An argument ensued between Vadim and Pete regarding their past encounters, personal history, and the longstanding tensions between their factions. Vadim sought to test Pete’s convictions, ultimately forcing a coercive scenario in which Pete was commanded to kill Santiago or himself. Pete refused, instead attempting to take his own life, prompting Vadim to shoot Santiago, leaving him for dead; however, he survived.

Vadim forced Pete to broadcast a final message over the radio before firing a volley of rounds into his body, framing the event as a punishment to the Fireflies for intervening in the clubs’ interests for too long. As they fled, Everett Reed, who had been in the area, heard the shots from Vadim's gun, and ran over. Finding Pete in critical condition he grabbed him and moved him to a secret location where he attempted to stabilize him as best as possible.

Reed attempted an improvised and desperate operation on Pete, while declining assistance from the Fireflies, who had been searching for Pete. Despite his catastrophic injuries and Reed’s limited medical capability, the operation stabilized Pete temporarily. Though the effort only brought him a brief reprieve, long enough to be moved to Pusta where he was met by most of the Fireflies, and [[Harry Churches]] who had come out of his self-imposed exile to assist the Fireflies during the crisis. Pete was assessed by Fireflies’ doctors, who concluded his wounds were fatal.

When doctors determined that [[Pete Roberts]] would not survive, his friends entered the surgical room to comfort him. Pete requested Harry’s pistol and, with assistance from Irish and Harry, was brought to Bart’s pond to deliver final words to his companions. After addressing several members of the group and urging the group not to succumb to vengeance, Pete used the pistol to end his life on November 1st 2025. Harry, along with Irish, witnessed the act. Following a brief gun salute, Harry retrieved Pete’s body, and returned it to Pusta for a proper funeral.

In the aftermath, some in the group became disillusioned with the ideals of hope and redemption that once shaped the Fireflies, while others held onto their principles even harder. Pete died a martyr and his legacy became central to the Fireflies ideology from then on. The group began a hunt for the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] and [[Vadim]], some in hopes of bringing justice and others chasing after vengeance. It was a tumultuous time for the group but they proved their resilience and continued fighting for hope in Pete’s honor.

==Notable Members==

[[file:fireflies4.png|framed|right|''The first leader of the Fireflies [[Harry Churches]].'']]
'''[[Harry Churches]]''' - Harry is the founder and first leader of the Fireflies. He is considered by most to be a stubborn uncompromising man, and the Fireflies under his leadership strived to protect the innocent and rid the world of all the corrupt immoral survivors. He is known as someone who stands up for the little guy against the oppressive factions of Chernarus, and for his speeches of hope to all of the country.

'''Grisha''' - Grisha was Harry Churches' first right hand man, and a founding member of the Fireflies. Grisha met Harry while the two were Severograd citizens and agreed to join the Fireflies, eventually becoming second in command, before defecting to Torchwood following an undercover operation that backfired.

'''Jacob Plisskin''' - Jacob was a founding member of the Fireflies, and a follower of the Torchwood religion known as "The Light." Despite being a follower of the religion, he served as a Firefly during the war against Torchwood in 2020. Eventually however, Jacob defected, joining Torchwood years later.

'''Bobby River''' - Bobby was a boy who was found and taken in by the Fireflies at a young age. The group taught him how to survive, how to use a gun, and the history of the old world that he had been born too late to remember. He eventually left the Fireflies to discover the world for himself, and decide who he was.

'''Matt''' - Matt was the second in command of the Fireflies for much of 2021. After joining the group, he quickly gained a reputation as the archetype of what a Firefly should be, garnering influence in the group after his impressive actions in the war against Torchwood. In late 2021 however, Matt discovered love and left the Fireflies to live a peaceful life outside of Chernarus, occasionally revealing himself in times of need to support his old friends. He has not been seen for some time.

'''[[Pete Roberts]]''' - Pete Roberts was Harry’s third right hand man, and the second leader of the Fireflies, who took over after Harry’s departure. He was a hopeful man, who led by example never confusing justice and revenge. Pete always made sure that the individuals serving under him understood that the way they fight was just as important as the reasons why. His death at the hands of the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] rocked the group, but his legacy lived on.

[[file:fireflies5.png|framed|left|''Firefly Matt interrogating a member of the '''[[Cult of Papa]].''''']]

'''Irish''' - Irish is a long time member of the Fireflies, and through his time fighting in the Blackthorn war developed into a strong, yet slightly unstable, soldier for justice. Irish is very close with [[Harry Churches]], and is a perfect example of a character who has been driven to increasing extremes by the world around him. Irish is known to suffer from hallucinations and PTSD, but is largely high functioning.

'''Carter R. Sturmin''' - Carter is a warrior from another land. He joined the Fireflies to seek a path of redemption, and to put his dark past behind him. Carter is the Fireflies’ most dangerous fighter, and is a ruthless tactician, serving as Pete’s right hand man. He often carries a melancholic aura about him, both due to the battles of his past that plague his mind, and his desire to keep those he cares about alive.

'''Bart''' - Firefly Bart was a jovial and chipper man, well known for cracking jokes, and generally being a kind soul. As he arrived in Chernarus he first met the [[Woodsmen]] while they were allies with the Fireflies. After they told him about the faction, Bart was inspired by their cause and joined the Fireflies. Bart became enraged by attacks from the [[Wizards]], and set out alone to hunt them. This led to his capture, torture, and eventual death. A pond near Pusta, where Bart commonly fished, was given his namesake after his death.

'''Ida''' - One of the most compassionate souls within the Fireflies, Ida is a quiet pillar of the group’s conscience. Ida has maintained an important role in the moral direction of the faction, often reminding others of the human cost behind their decisions. Her hopeful outlook and genuine care for all reminds the other Fireflies what the group truly fights for.

'''Edwin Hughes''' - Ed is an officer in the Fireflies, serving as a Constable and is responsible for releasing several of the portfolios on enemies of the group. As an ex-police officer he was particularly suited to this job. Ed has a clear cut morality, and is happy to bear the weight of responsibility for doing difficult tasks when it’s the right thing to do. At his core, Ed is a man who holds onto the principle of justice no matter what.

'''Santiago''' - Being a darker member of the Fireflies, Santiago is not above giving into moments of rage and has little patience for criminals, often having to be calmed down by more level headed Fireflies. This is primarily due to all that he has seen and been a part of, having been captured alongside Pete when he was mortally wounded by the Loyalists, and witnessed many other tragedies, as is common for many members of the Fireflies.

==Relationships==

'''[[Torchwood]]''' - The history between the Fireflies and Torchwood begins at the group's conception, and has always been very up and down. The two groups have both fought together with respect, and against each other in bloody warfare. Their dynamic is perhaps one of the most unique in the current political landscape.

[[file:BTGFFParley.jpeg|thumb|600px|right|''[[Harry Churches]] and [[Alastor Blackthorn]] meeting in 2024 during a parley.]]''

'''The [[Black Sheep]]''' - The Black Sheep were the Fireflies long time neighbours to the north. The two groups have had a friendly relationship for about as long as the Fireflies have existed. While the two have never officially been allies, they have fought skirmishes on the same side, and the Fireflies consider them to be some of the last wholly honest and good people left.

'''The [[Black Cross]]''' - The Black Cross are effectively the parent group of the Fireflies. They are the reason Harry Churches became a good man once more, and the history between the two is long standing. Although they are slow to agree on political policy, the Fireflies have a particular respect for the field medics and believe that they genuinely want to help people.

'''[[Overlook]]''' - Long time neighbours to the group’s north east the two groups have supported each other at various points in history. The [[Samaritan]] and [[Harry Churches]] were friends, and his death deeply impacted the Fireflies. Though the two groups are often on good terms, the Overlook’s neutrality has been the cause of tension between the two groups, preventing an official alliance from ever coming about.

'''[[Blackthorn Gang]]''' - Having been one of the Fireflies main rivals in recent years. The war between the Blackthorn gang and the Fireflies has been ongoing for quite some time. The gang under the leadership of [[Alastor Blackthorn]] demanded supplies for the Fireflies, most commonly pumpkins, and attempted to subjugate the group, but were unsuccessful. Relations remained hostile even after his death.

'''[[Wizards]]''' - The [[Wizards]], also known as the Order of the Magi, have long been rivals of the Fireflies. The [[Black Sheep]] often had battles with them, and the Fireflies worked with the Sheep to help combat the group. After [[Oz]]’s death in Pusta, the Wizards dubbed the valley between Guglovo and Pusta the "Valley of Death” and began harassing passerbys. Since then the two groups have remained enemies.

Fireflies

2026-02-01T20:18:24Z

Harry: /* Notable Members */

[[Category:Notable Groups]]
[[file:fireflies1.png|thumb|''“Always Hope.”'']]

==Overview==

'''The Fireflies''' are a revolutionary group who oppose the banditry and lawlessness of Chernarus. Their long term mission is to bring an end to the apocalypse and rebuild a functioning democratic civilization. They fight for justice, inspiring bravery and hope in those who fight alongside them. The group initially began on [https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/ghm6fi/group_introduction_the_fireflies/ May 11th 2020], and after a 5 month disappearance reformed on [https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/t5qz1y/the_fireflies_group_reformation_announcement_ooc/ March 3rd 2022]. The Fireflies can still be found around every corner today, ready and willing to avenge the innocent.

==Alignment==

The Fireflies are considered to be '''Lawful Good'''. Since their inception they have walked the line of more or less lawful behaviour. In its earlier days the group was far more uncompromising as opposed to their more pragmatic attitude later on. Their goals and values, however, have always remained purely good; striving for a better future, and protecting the innocent.

==Appearance==

The Fireflies often wear a combination of civilian clothing with tactical equipment, providing a friendly appearance while maintaining the ability to be well equipped in a fight. They can also be identified by their yellow armbands, which sometimes have black firefly symbols painted on them.

[[file:fireflies2.png|framed|center|''An average looking Firefly standing guard inside their compound.'']]

==Origins==

The Fireflies were created by founder and leader Harry Churches on May 11th 2020. After living with the [[Black Cross]], [[Harry Churches]] created the Fireflies with a vision for the future, concluding that civilised society could only return if people are willing to fight for it. With the original five members Grisha, Bricks, Lynx, Matt and Jacob being inspired by that vision, the Fireflies made Pusta their home and began their mission for a brighter tomorrow.

==Territory==

[[file:fireflies3.png|framed|right|''The borders of the Fireflies.'']]

The Fireflies hold a historic claim in the southeast, exerting a dominant presence over Elektrozavodsk and Pusta especially. These places are their home, though the group has been known to become nomadic to allow for more versatility in wartime.

'''Pusta'''

Pusta on the surface is a small ordinary farm town, however it has for a long time been where the Fireflies have called home. The Fireflies saw an advantage to living in the quiet town, as it made the perfect staging location to build up their forces in their early days and help any desperate people on the coast.

'''Elektrozavodsk'''

Being the nearest city to Pusta and a great place to plan loot routes, the Fireflies have held a territory claim over the city of Elektrozavodsk on and off. The Fireflies claimed the town with the goal of quelling the chaos of the coastal city, and potentially making it a safe place to one day set up a community.

==Goals==

The Fireflies exist primarily to make the world a safer and better place, and as a result the group has many goals which they believe will help them accomplish their mission.

The Fireflies have the following main objectives:

* To deal out swift and fair punishments to the criminals of Chernarus.

* To bring justice and reparations to those wronged by the criminals of Chernarus.

* To insight revolution against the oppressive, belligerent, & antagonistic factions of Chernarus.

* To protect and support others who help innocents and combat banditry.

==Values==

The Fireflies are a group founded on the principles of justice, bravery and hope, as a result the values that would make a good Firefly reflect this.

The Fireflies value the following:

* The bravery to stand up for others in danger and not turning a blind eye.

* The hope and vision for a better and safer Chernarus.

* The ability to discern right from wrong.

* The willingness to die for your morals.

==History==

After the Fireflies were founded and made Pusta their home they would meet their first allies and neighbours, a group known as [[Torchwood]]. The Fireflies and [[Torchwood]] initially fought on the same side, having mutual enemies in some small-time bandit groups. After their enemies had been done away with however, the Torchwood & Fireflies alliance would soon follow.

On August 3rd 2020, [[Cain the Messiah]] - the leader of Torchwood - and other members arrived at the Fireflies compound with a child in handcuffs, and offered to sell the child for a price while only one firefly recruit by the name of Matt was on duty. There are many rumours and contradicting stories as to what happened next but the prevailing story is that Matt, the one day second-in-command of the Fireflies, gunned down all of the Torchwood members and freed the girl in handcuffs. After this incident, Torchwood tore through the Fireflies compound the next day and left demands for [[Harry Churches]]’ cooperation in the execution of Matt. Harry and the Fireflies would refuse these demands however, believing Matt had done the right thing. This led to a vicious war between the two groups, during which the Fireflies became briefly nomadic and many lives were cut short on both sides.

Eventually, [[Dark as Midnight]] would interrupt the conflict by burning down the Mogilevka church in which Torchwood resided. Without a safe home, Cain and his group went on the run. In the coming months, the Fireflies would hunt down any Torchwood members in an attempt to kill Cain so that Matt’s life would no longer be at risk. During this period, the Fireflies discovered where [[Torchwood]] had taken refuge and massacred the [[Torchwood]] members who were home in a surprise attack - leaving a note calling for Cain's arrest. Although a tenuous truce was brokered in a diplomatic meeting hosted by the [[Black Cross]], it would not be the last of the fighting between the two groups.

A month after the truce was brokered, the [[Black Cross]], at the time mutual friends of the Fireflies and [[Torchwood]] would be attacked by [[Dark as Midnight]]. In response to this the Fireflies decided to cut off DAMN on their way back to [[Gorka]]. [[Torchwood]], having heard of the plan, decided to agree to work together to avenge their friends at the aid station. Though the raid was not a complete success, the two groups were able to leave with reparations for the stolen items from the [[Black Cross]], and Cain and Matt were able to have a brief conversation during the fighting in which the two showed mutual respect for each other and put their personal rivalry to rest.

About a year after the war, in summer of 2021 [[Harry Churches]] had noticed general morale was low among the people of Chernarus. Many friends both inside the Fireflies and out were expressing a feeling of hopelessness. It was soon after this that Harry delivered a famous speech known as the [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22znTEr_lZY “Always Hope”] speech. This speech can be found as a tape around Chernarus, and carries the message that no matter who you are and what you’ve done, it is never too late to do the right thing, and that together one day the people will restore civilization.

It was around this time that a young boy named Bobby River, a former Firefly and son-like figure to Harry Churches who had left for [[Torchwood]], arrived in Pusta. Soon after he arrived he was once again on good terms with the Fireflies after a conversation with Harry Churches. Bobby then left Pusta to attempt to bridge another gap between him and Torchwood which had come about since he’d left their group also, however [[Torchwood]] were not as forgiving and the Warden ordered the child to be shot in the chest.

[[file:Upfront_Coalition.png|thumb|600px|right|''The first meeting of the Upfront Coalition in Pusta.'']]

Bobby came to the Fireflies for help, who were able to remove the bullet and save his life thanks to some skillful surgery. The Warden’s actions enraged Harry, reigniting the rivalry between Torchwood and the Fireflies when he threatened Torchwood over what they’d done. After this Cain and the rest of Torchwood arrived at the gates of Pusta demanding that Harry Churches revoke his threat, but after refusing to do so, and hours of arguing, eventually Torchwood stormed the compound and in the ensuing battle Acolyte Peter was killed by [[Harry Churches]]. While Torchwood did succeed in taking the Firefly compound, it was at a high price due to [https://youtu.be/xzTTsipws18 Peter’s death].

Some time later in the winter of 2021 [[Harry Churches]] left the Fireflies and Chernarus, fleeing to Takistan. Without his leadership the faction dissolved, with many members of the faction at the time dispersing across all of Chernarus. In early 2022, however, Harry returned from [https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/se9znt/the_deserts_first_lesson/ the desert] after learning of Esther’s death and reformed the Fireflies on a quest for revenge against the groups involved. The subsequent correlation between his personal crusade and the new decisions and policies of the Fireflies being far more brutal and calculated was no coincidence.

The Fireflies spent nearly a year from March 3rd, 2022, quietly regaining power. Nomadic and shadowy, they covertly attacked their enemies. After building up their strength, the Fireflies began fighting to retake Pusta from the [[Pirates of Pusta]]. The Fireflies captured their leader, [[Captain Biscuits]], in a final battle on July 22nd, 2023.

In September 2023, the Fireflies joined a growing conflict against the [[Masquerade]], a roaming band of mime themed psychopaths and raiders. Many groups in South Zagoria were already struggling with them, and through the diplomatic efforts of a survivor named Ego, several factions formed what became the Upfront Coalition. The Coalition brought together four uneasy partners: The Village, the [[Wolves of Selene]], the [[Boys of Brena]], and the Fireflies.

This war was where [[Pete Roberts]], a member of the Fireflies, distinguished himself, catching Harry's eye. He became the new right hand of the group soon after. Despite internal tensions, the Coalition united against the Masquerade and succeeded in eradicating them, and driving the surviving members from Chernarus by the end of the year. The Coalition dissolved immediately after its victory.

On February 13th, 2024, Harry executed the defeated [[Captain Biscuits]] in a public event held by the Fireflies. The [[Forsaken Loyalists]] attacked, attempting to free the Captain, but were driven off. That same day, Firefly Carter apprehended [[Oz]], leader of the [[Wizards]], and transferred him to [[Bobs]] of the [[Black Sheep]], who executed [[Oz]] in Pusta.

That same month, tensions arose between the Fireflies and the [[Lost Legion]], a communist faction to the north, after the Fireflies found out the Legion had constructed an outpost between the settlements of Mogilevka and Pusta, within an area the Fireflies considered their territory. A meeting between the groups’ leaders failed to resolve the disagreement, with the Legion disputing that the structure lay within Firefly land, and claiming that it was benign. Although both sides agreed that the outpost could remain so long as it did not expand, relations remained strained in the following weeks.

[[file:Biscuits_Death.jpeg|thumb|600px|left|''[[Captain Biscuits]]’ execution inside the Fireflies’ compound.'']]

The situation escalated in April of 2024, when Firefly Abe was shot during a diplomatic visit to the [[Lost Legion]]’s compound. The Fireflies accused the Legion’s leader of assaulting Abe during a discussion without provocation. In response, the Fireflies seized the disputed outpost, reporting that it contained weapons, ammunition, and other equipment in contrast to earlier Legion statements. The incident resulted in a complete breakdown of relations, with the Fireflies declaring the site under their permanent control and issuing warnings of further action should hostilities continue in an announcement titled the “[https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/1c4gkai/fireflies_announcement_lost_legion_portfolio/ Lost Legion Portfolio]” written by [[Harry Churches]].

Shortly after a new threat emerged, a group named the [[Blackthorn Gang]], led by [[Alastor Blackthorn]]. The gang were extortionist, and resorted to murder and brutality to coerce other communities of survivors into providing a steady stream of food and other supplies. Naturally this led to a war between the two groups. The war initially went very badly for Fireflies, with many Fireflies being captured and held hostage, notably Carter, who was dangled from the roof of an apartment building and held for ransom. A Firefly named Irish developed severe PTSD and guilt after leading a failed raid during the war. After this Harry and Irish became close friends, being able to relate to each others’ sense of loss and regret, the two would develop into a ruthless duo. Eventually, the group rallied, and delivered several heavy blows to the gang. As the war raged on over the following months a peace talk was attempted in April, however it ended in violence and any hope to end the war was gone.

In June of 2024, as retaliation for [[Oz]]’s death, Firefly Bart was captured and tortured by the [[Wizards]]. Tragically, this led to Bart's untimely death. The [[Wizards]] twisted Bart’s mind and brought him to Pusta. Bart didn’t even recognize the Fireflies as he mumbled nonsense before self immolating in front of them. Bart was buried at a pond to the west of Pusta, and the pond, which was called “Bart’s Pond” from then on, became the place where the Fireflies buried their fallen.

On 27th July 2024, the Fireflies confronted [[Mike Callahan]], a former [[Blackthorn Gang]] member who had defected. Harry, having witnessed the pain and death caused by men like Mike, saw only danger in granting him any leniency. Mike’s refusal to surrender information on his former group enraged Harry, to him, it was the ultimate display of cowardice, a man choosing bonds of cruelty over accountability. The rest of the Fireflies, led by [[Pete Roberts]], argued for a path of redemption, believing even a man like Mike could change. Harry could not reconcile this hope with the reality he had seen too often. Evil rarely surrendered, and mercy too often enabled it. The disagreement revealed a fundamental rift, Harry could no longer stand among those who believed hope alone could safeguard the innocent.

On 4th August 2024, [[Harry Churches]] resigned as leader of the Fireflies, leaving [[Pete Roberts]] to guide the group with a renewed focus on hope and redemption. Harry felt his hardened outlook and ruthless methods no longer fit that direction, so he walked away. Irish in particular struggled with his departure, beginning to hallucinate Harry and becoming increasingly unstable.

Due to the endless attacks by the [[Wizards]] and [[Blackthorn Gang]], the [[Overlook]], the [[Woodsmen]] and the Fireflies decided to create an alliance to defend the South-East. It was coined The Southern Shield, however this alliance did not last due to growing tensions between the Fireflies and the [[Woodsmen]], after the latter had begun to work with groups like the [[Forsaken Loyalists]]. The [[Woodsmen]] announced their “Guns Down, Gloves Up” fight night event which took place on January 4th, 2025. Despite the expressed concerns of the Fireflies, the [[Woodsmen]] hired the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] as security and the relationship between the two allies quickly began to deteriorate.

[[file:IrishandHarry.png|thumb|600px|right|''[[Harry Churches]] and Irish helping a survivor shortly before Harry’s departure.]]''

After multiple failed attempts to convince the [[Woodsmen]] that hiring the biker gang as security would set a dangerous precedent, the event went forward as planned. While the Fireflies officially abstained from the event to demonstrate disapproval, Firefly Misha infiltrated the event undercover with a mission to get everyone on the radio while [[Pete Roberts]] broadcast a message condemning the event. What Misha saw inside was inexcusable to the Fireflies. Murder, cannibalism and robbery were reported, all under the [[Woodsmen’s]] roof. Given the previously good terms the two groups had been on, [[Pete Roberts]] was hesitant to declare war.

On January 7th, 2025, clowns from the [[Dark Carnival]] arrived in Pusta to kidnap a survivor. A Firefly named Ed stood his ground alone and outnumbered, protecting the survivor. As the lead clown pulled his gun, [[Harry Churches]] intervened from the shadows by firing a rifle shot that hit the clown in the head. A gunfight ensued, and the clowns were repelled. Thanks to the two the survivor escaped, and Harry vanished into the forest once more.

Talks continued with the [[Woodsmen]] in the hopes that they would take accountability for their mistakes. Relations would continue to spiral after a massacre at the [[Overlook]] which Gideon was directly responsible for by informing the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] of who was present at the community camp. The Woodsmen’s transgressions could no longer be ignored and Firefly Constable, Ed, immediately launched a portfolio to inform the public, titled the “[https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/1knond6/fireflies_announcement_woodsmen_portfolio/ Woodsmen Portfolio]” in May of 2025. At this point, action had been taken but the Fireflies still refrained from a direct war, offering the [[Woodsmen]] a path toward peace instead.

Weeks after this, the Woodsmen made their move, launching an ambush on the Fireflies with help from the [[Dark Carnival]] in Chernogorsk. The Woodsmen’s attempt to kill all of the Fireflies in one fell swoop failed, but this attack finally led to a war between the two groups. A few days after this the Fireflies discovered something that would change their view of the Woodsmen forever. The Fireflies passed by Bart’s Pond to pay their respects and found his desecrated remains stuffed inside a trash bag. Wade of the [[Woodsmen]] personally signed a note inside the bag, threatening the Fireflies, and telling them not to leave garbage in their territory again.

During one fateful night, the group encountered Everett Reed, who had somehow survived the wounds he suffered during the Blackthorn raid on the previous incarnation of his group the [[Lost Legion]]. The man who returned, however, was markedly changed, and the group, now under his leadership, had rebranded itself as the Last Legion. The new group quickly became a disruptive presence in the South, driven by a fanatical vision to eradicate evil at any cost, even if innocents became collateral.

Reed and his Legion presented a compelling mirror to the Fireflies, frequently forcing them to reevaluate their own actions. Although they appeared to be indiscriminate killers at first glance, closer examination revealed a faction genuinely striving to shape a better world, albeit through twisted and uncompromising means. [[Pete Roberts]], and Reed shared many conversations where they debated the merits and flaws of each other's philosophies.
The tension between the groups culminated on 26th August 2025, after Firefly Santiago lost control and attempted to massacre several Legion members, including Reed, inside Hope’s Rest. The attack led to Firefly Juri’s capture, a public trial for Santiago, and a revision of the Fireflies’ rules of engagement to ensure this could never happen again. Santiago was found guilty of unreasonable use of force, disobeying a direct order, and remained under close watch. Juri remained a hostage of the [[Lost Legion]] for more than a week, but upon hearing Santiago’s verdict, Reed agreed to return Juri, handing him over the night after the trial. Ultimately, repeated raids against the Legion from their many enemies contributed to their collapse, bringing the conflict to an end.

The war between the Fireflies and the [[Woodsmen]] had dragged on for many months, with the Fireflies attacking the [[Woodsmen]]’s base. Eventually, the [[Woodsmen]] agreed to two of the Fireflies’ three demands: relinquishing Bart’s Pond and publicly denouncing the [[Forsaken Loyalists]]. The third demand was Wade's admission of what he’d done to Bart along with an apology, however this never came. Following this, a tense peace was found in September of 2025 between the [[Woodsmen]] and the Fireflies, with the exception of Wade. The Fireflies made it clear that should they catch Wade alone, they intend to execute him for his crimes.

[[file:PeteRobertsBody.jpeg|thumb|600px|left|''[[Pete Roberts]]’ wrapped up body at Bart’s Pond.'']]

[[Pete Roberts]] was patrolling the town of Solnichniy with other Fireflies on October 28th, when he and Santiago were ambushed and captured by the [[Forsaken Loyalists]]. An argument ensued between Vadim and Pete regarding their past encounters, personal history, and the longstanding tensions between their factions. Vadim sought to test Pete’s convictions, ultimately forcing a coercive scenario in which Pete was commanded to kill Santiago or himself. Pete refused, instead attempting to take his own life, prompting Vadim to shoot Santiago, leaving him for dead; however, he survived.

Vadim forced Pete to broadcast a final message over the radio before firing a volley of rounds into his body, framing the event as a punishment to the Fireflies for intervening in the clubs’ interests for too long. As they fled, Everett Reed, who had been in the area, heard the shots from Vadim's gun, and ran over. Finding Pete in critical condition he grabbed him and moved him to a secret location where he attempted to stabilize him as best as possible.

Reed attempted an improvised and desperate operation on Pete, while declining assistance from the Fireflies, who had been searching for Pete. Despite his catastrophic injuries and Reed’s limited medical capability, the operation stabilized Pete temporarily. Though the effort only brought him a brief reprieve, long enough to be moved to Pusta where he was met by most of the Fireflies, and [[Harry Churches]] who had come out of his self-imposed exile to assist the Fireflies during the crisis. Pete was assessed by Fireflies’ doctors, who concluded his wounds were fatal.

When doctors determined that [[Pete Roberts]] would not survive, his friends entered the surgical room to comfort him. Pete requested Harry’s pistol and, with assistance from Irish and Harry, was brought to Bart’s pond to deliver final words to his companions. After addressing several members of the group and urging the group not to succumb to vengeance, Pete used the pistol to end his life on November 1st 2025. Harry, along with Irish, witnessed the act. Following a brief gun salute, Harry retrieved Pete’s body, and returned it to Pusta for a proper funeral.

In the aftermath, some in the group became disillusioned with the ideals of hope and redemption that once shaped the Fireflies, while others held onto their principles even harder. Pete died a martyr and his legacy became central to the Fireflies ideology from then on. The group began a hunt for the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] and [[Vadim]], some in hopes of bringing justice and others chasing after vengeance. It was a tumultuous time for the group but they proved their resilience and continued fighting for hope in Pete’s honor.

==Notable Members==

[[file:fireflies4.png|framed|right|''The first leader of the Fireflies [[Harry Churches]].'']]
'''[[Harry Churches]]''' - Harry is the founder and first leader of the Fireflies. He is considered by most to be a stubborn uncompromising man, and the Fireflies under his leadership strived to protect the innocent and rid the world of all the corrupt immoral survivors. He is known as someone who stands up for the little guy against the oppressive factions of Chernarus, and for his speeches of hope to all of the country.

'''Grisha''' - Grisha was Harry Churches' first right hand man, and a founding member of the Fireflies. Grisha met Harry while the two were Severograd citizens and agreed to join the Fireflies, eventually becoming second in command, before defecting to Torchwood following an undercover operation that backfired.

'''Jacob Plisskin''' - Jacob was a founding member of the Fireflies, and a follower of the Torchwood religion known as the light. Despite being a follower of the religion, he served as a Firefly during the war against Torchwood in 2020. Eventually however, Jacob defected, joining Torchwood years later.

'''Bobby River''' - Bobby was a boy who was found and taken in by the Fireflies at a young age. The group taught him how to survive, how to use a gun, and the history of the old world that he had been born too late to remember. He eventually left the Fireflies to discover the world for himself, and decide who he was.

'''Matt''' - Matt was the second in command of the Fireflies for much of 2021. After joining the group, he quickly gained a reputation as the archetype of what a Firefly should be, garnering influence in the group after his impressive actions in the war against Torchwood. In late 2021 however, Matt discovered love and left the Fireflies to live a peaceful life outside of Chernarus, occasionally revealing himself in times of need to support his old friends. He has not been seen for some time.

'''[[Pete Roberts]]''' - Pete Roberts was Harry’s third right hand man, and the second leader of the Fireflies, who took over after Harry’s departure. He was a hopeful man, who led by example never confusing justice and revenge. Pete always made sure that the individuals serving under him understood that the way they fight was just as important as the reasons why. His death at the hands of the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] rocked the group, but his legacy lived on.

[[file:fireflies5.png|framed|left|''Firefly Matt interrogating a member of the '''[[Cult of Papa]].''''']]

'''Irish''' - Irish is a long time member of the Fireflies, and through his time fighting in the Blackthorn war developed into a strong, yet slightly unstable, soldier for justice. Irish is very close with [[Harry Churches]], and is a perfect example of a character who has been driven to increasing extremes by the world around him. Irish is known to suffer from hallucinations and PTSD, but is largely high functioning.

'''Carter R. Sturmin''' - Carter is a warrior from another land. He joined the Fireflies to seek a path of redemption, and to put his dark past behind him. Carter is the Fireflies’ most dangerous fighter, and is a ruthless tactician, serving as Pete’s right hand man. He often carries a melancholic aura about him, both due to the battles of his past that plague his mind, and his desire to keep those he cares about alive.

'''Bart''' - Firefly Bart was a jovial and chipper man, well known for cracking jokes, and generally being a kind soul. As he arrived in Chernarus he first met the [[Woodsmen]] while they were allies with the Fireflies. After they told him about the faction, Bart was inspired by their cause and joined the Fireflies. Bart became enraged by attacks from the [[Wizards]], and set out alone to hunt them. This led to his capture, torture, and eventual death. A pond near Pusta, where Bart commonly fished, was given his namesake after his death.

'''Ida''' - One of the most compassionate souls within the Fireflies, Ida is a quiet pillar of the group’s conscience. Ida has maintained an important role in the moral direction of the faction, often reminding others of the human cost behind their decisions. Her hopeful outlook and genuine care for all reminds the other Fireflies what the group truly fights for.

'''Edwin Hughes''' - Ed is an officer in the Fireflies, serving as a Constable and is responsible for releasing several of the portfolios on enemies of the group. As an ex-police officer he was particularly suited to this job. Ed has a clear cut morality, and is happy to bear the weight of responsibility for doing difficult tasks when it’s the right thing to do. At his core, Ed is a man who holds onto the principle of justice no matter what.

'''Santiago''' - Being a darker member of the Fireflies, Santiago is not above giving into moments of rage and has little patience for criminals, often having to be calmed down by more level headed Fireflies. This is primarily due to all that he has seen and been a part of, having been captured alongside Pete when he was mortally wounded by the Loyalists, and witnessed many other tragedies, as is common for many members of the Fireflies.

==Relationships==

'''[[Torchwood]]''' - The history between the Fireflies and Torchwood begins at the group's conception, and has always been very up and down. The two groups have both fought together with respect, and against each other in bloody warfare. Their dynamic is perhaps one of the most unique in the current political landscape.

[[file:BTGFFParley.jpeg|thumb|600px|right|''[[Harry Churches]] and [[Alastor Blackthorn]] meeting in 2024 during a parley.]]''

'''The [[Black Sheep]]''' - The Black Sheep were the Fireflies long time neighbours to the north. The two groups have had a friendly relationship for about as long as the Fireflies have existed. While the two have never officially been allies, they have fought skirmishes on the same side, and the Fireflies consider them to be some of the last wholly honest and good people left.

'''The [[Black Cross]]''' - The Black Cross are effectively the parent group of the Fireflies. They are the reason Harry Churches became a good man once more, and the history between the two is long standing. Although they are slow to agree on political policy, the Fireflies have a particular respect for the field medics and believe that they genuinely want to help people.

'''[[Overlook]]''' - Long time neighbours to the group’s north east the two groups have supported each other at various points in history. The [[Samaritan]] and [[Harry Churches]] were friends, and his death deeply impacted the Fireflies. Though the two groups are often on good terms, the Overlook’s neutrality has been the cause of tension between the two groups, preventing an official alliance from ever coming about.

'''[[Blackthorn Gang]]''' - Having been one of the Fireflies main rivals in recent years. The war between the Blackthorn gang and the Fireflies has been ongoing for quite some time. The gang under the leadership of [[Alastor Blackthorn]] demanded supplies for the Fireflies, most commonly pumpkins, and attempted to subjugate the group, but were unsuccessful. Relations remained hostile even after his death.

'''[[Wizards]]''' - The [[Wizards]], also known as the Order of the Magi, have long been rivals of the Fireflies. The [[Black Sheep]] often had battles with them, and the Fireflies worked with the Sheep to help combat the group. After [[Oz]]’s death in Pusta, the Wizards dubbed the valley between Guglovo and Pusta the "Valley of Death” and began harassing passerbys. Since then the two groups have remained enemies.

Pete Roberts

2026-01-09T15:28:45Z

Harry: /* Actions */

[[Category:Notable Characters]]
==Overview==

'''Group/Faction Affiliation:''' The [[Fireflies]]

'''Status:''' Deceased

Pete Roberts was the second leader of the [[Fireflies]], first serving as [[Harry Churches]]’ right hand man, and later becoming his successor. The faction’s leader led the group according to Harry’s original principles of hope and justice, until his death in 2025 at the hands of a member of the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] named [[Vadim]]. Pete never faltered in his belief in everyone’s ability to be redeemed, and remained a principled man until the very end.

==Appearance==

[[file:PeteRoberts1.jpeg|thumb|600px|left|]]

Pete Roberts had dirty blonde hair, commonly wore reading glasses and a baseball cap with a Canadian flag patch. He also had a small scar on his face after being cut with a knife by the [[Masquerade]]. He was identifiable as a Firefly by his yellow armband.

==Origins==

Pete Roberts was a Canadian taxi driver before day zero and arrived in Chernarus in November of 2022. Following the death of his uncle, who had raised him, Pete assumed ownership of his uncle’s taxi business. His uncle frequently spoke of a country he had visited during his childhood, which he described with admiration. After his uncle’s passing, Pete chose to travel there, leading to his arrival in Chernarus. Eventually he met [[Harry Churches]] and joined the [[Fireflies]]. Having been inspired by their mission of justice, hope, and the building of a more civilised society than ever before, Pete made an excellent recruit, and helped Harry reestablish the Fireflies.

==Demeanor==

Pete Roberts was a man of hope, with a cheerful and friendly disposition. Pete often cracked jokes, and was known for making profound statements with a touch of humor. He was very trusting of most survivors he met and always looked for the best in people, even when it wasn’t there.

==Actions==

Pete Roberts arrived in Chernarus in late 2022. During this time the [[Fireflies]] had recently reemerged following [[Harry Churches]] return to Chernarus from Takistan. Without a base of operations Pete spent many months with Harry rebuilding the group's strength through the creation of stash networks, and information gathering missions.

Pete’s first offensive mission was a guerrilla assault on the [[People of Tulga]], an old enemy of the [[Fireflies]], who were collaborators with [[Dark As Midnight]] and a precursor group to the evil faction known as the [[Wizards]]. Harry and Pete attacked the Tulgans from the forests and Pete became proficient in hit and run combat tactics which were commonly used during this era of the [[Fireflies]].

Once ready in June of 2023, Pete fought by Harry’s side to retake the original home town of the group, Pusta. Since the [[Fireflies]] dissolution in late 2021, Pusta had become home to a new group known as the [[Pirates of Pusta]]. The Pirates had arrived in Cherarus by sea shortly after the Fireflies left, and had been robbing survivors in the region that was once a symbol of hope ever since.

The war for the two did not take long, as the Pirates were already weakened when the [[Fireflies]] arrived. The [[Fireflies]] were able to establish a fortified base in the town after a storm destroyed much of the pirates stronghold. Captain Biscuits, the Pirate leader, was later captured, marking the defeat of the [[Pirates of Pusta]] and the end of the conflict on July 22nd, 2023.

[[file:PeteRoberts2.jpeg|thumb|600px|right|''Pete Roberts and the [[Fireflies]] making an aid delivery to a community camp.'']]

In early September 2023, Pete Roberts was jumped and held hostage in Pusta by the [[Masquerade]], a nomadic group of mime themed bandits and cannibals. While he was captured the [[Masquerade]] abused Pete and cut his face with a fange knife while threatening to eat him, leaving him scarred. The [[Masquerade]] had made many enemies traveling South Zagoria, and Pete, with the help of a man named Ego, took advantage of the mutual hatred many groups had for the [[Masquerade]].

Pete sent Ego around the map, and through diplomatic efforts several factions formed what became known as the Upfront Coalition. The Coalition brought together four uneasy partners: The Village, the [[Wolves of Selene]], the [[Boys of Brena]], and the [[Fireflies]]. This war was where Pete distinguished himself, catching Harry's eye as not only a capable soldier, but a man with leadership qualities as well.

Despite internal tensions, the Coalition united against the [[Masquerade]] and succeeded in eradicating them, and driving the surviving members from Chernarus by the end of the year. The Coalition dissolved immediately after its victory. Pete Roberts dedicated himself to hunting the surviving members of the [[Masquerade]], asking [[Harry Churches]] for a leave of absence. He was not seen for some time.

Pete returned to the Pusta in February of 2024 after word of [[Captain Biscuits]] execution reached him while he was tracking the the [[Masquerade]]. Pete returned to witness [[Harry Churches]] executing [[Captain Biscuits]] in a public event held by the [[Fireflies]]. The [[Forsaken Loyalists]] attacked, attempting to free the Captain, but were driven off. [[Oz]] of the [[Wizards]] was also captured and executed that same day. Pete fought to defend the compound valiantly, and became Harry’s right hand man soon after returning to the group.

That same month Pete met [[Vadim]] for the first time. [[Vadim]] was responsible for a hit-and-run incident involving Pete, which he later claimed was the result of drunk driving. Although Pete’s injuries were superficial, preparations were initially made to issue a warrant for the man’s arrest, with the intent to bring him to Pusta for trial or to execute him if encountered elsewhere. Pete instead urged a diplomatic response, subsequently making radio contact with [[Vadim]] and arranging a meeting in Pusta conducted in good faith. Pete’s willingness to reconcile the incident peacefully, was not shared by [[Harry Churches]], who demanded that Pete punch [[Vadim]] in the face during their meeting as punishment for his actions.

A short time later the [[Fireflies]] clashed with an up and coming faction known as the [[Blackthorn Gang]], lead by [[Alastor Blackthorn]]. The gang were extortionist, and resorted to murder and brutality to coerce other communities of survivors into providing a steady stream of food and other supplies. Naturally this led to a war between the two groups. The war initially went very badly for Fireflies, with many Fireflies being captured and held hostage, notably Carter, who was dangled from the roof of an apartment building and held for ransom.

[[Harry Churches]] began to doubt his leadership capabilities and his ability to keep the [[Fireflies]] safe. During a group meeting Harry asked the [[Fireflies]] if he should step down, and thanks to the convincing words of Pete and the other [[Fireflies]] Harry stayed. Eventually, the group rallied, and delivered several heavy blows to the gang. As the war raged on over the following months a peace talk was attempted in April 2024, however it ended in violence and any hope to end the war was gone.

In June of 2024, as retaliation for [[Oz]]’s death, Firefly Bart was captured and tortured by the [[Wizards]]. Tragically, this led to Bart's untimely death. The [[Wizards]] twisted Bart’s mind and brought him to Pusta. Bart didn’t even recognize Pete. Pete tried to talk sense into his friend, but it was no use. Bart self immolated in front of them, and was buried at a pond to the west of Pusta. The pond, which was called “Bart’s Pond” from then on, became the place where the Fireflies buried their fallen.

On 27th July 2024, the [[Fireflies]] came face to face with [[Mike Callahan]], a former [[Blackthorn Gang]] member who had defected. While [[Harry Churches]] saw only the familiar threat posed by men like Mike, it was [[Pete Roberts]] who emerged as the voice of hope. Pete believed that the [[Fireflies]] stood for more than retribution; to him, even someone shaped by cruelty might still choose a different path. Mike’s refusal to give up information tested that belief, deepening the divide within the group. Where Harry saw Mike as a coward with an unforgivable loyalty to a gang, Pete saw a man afraid to let go of what he knew. Pete’s conviction that redemption was worth the risk stood in direct opposition to Harry’s belief that mercy too often endangered the innocent.
On 4th August 2024, [[Harry Churches]] stepped down as leader of the [[Fireflies]], believing that Pete could hold true to the original ideals of hope that the [[Fireflies]] had fought for since 2020, and if he remained he would only corrupt the group. Pete Roberts assumed responsibility for guiding the group forward, and he sought to re-anchor the [[Fireflies]] in hope and the possibility of change, even as the weight of leadership settled heavily on him. Harry’s departure left a profound absence in the group, and for Pete, leadership began not with triumph, but with loss, uncertainty, and the challenge of holding a fractured group together under a gentler, more hopeful vision.

[[file:PeteRoberts3.jpeg|thumb|600px|left|''Pete Roberts in the winter.'']]

In response to sustained attacks by the [[Wizards]] and the [[Blackthorn Gang]], Pete Roberts supported the formation of a defensive alliance between the [[Overlook]], the [[Woodsmen]], and the [[Fireflies]] to protect the South-East. This alliance became known as the Southern Shield. Pete viewed it as necessary for regional stability, but from the outset it was fragile. Tensions escalated when the Woodsmen began associating with extremist groups such as the [[Forsaken Loyalists]], a development Pete regarded as a dangerous erosion of trust.

These concerns came to a head with the [[Woodsmen]]’s announcement of their “Guns Down, Gloves Up” fight night on January 4th, 2025. Despite Pete’s objections and repeated warnings, the [[Woodsmen]] hired the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] as security. Pete worked behind the scenes to prevent the event, arguing that legitimising the biker gang would set a precedent that could not be undone. When those efforts failed, the [[Fireflies]] formally abstained in protest. At Pete’s direction, Firefly Misha infiltrated the event to place attendees on the radio while Pete broadcast a condemnation of the event. Reports of murder, cannibalism, and robbery emerging from within the event deeply unsettled him. Even so, given the long-standing alliance between the groups, and Pete’s personal friendship with the [[Woodsmen]], he rejected calls for war.

Pete continued diplomatic talks with the [[Woodsmen]], holding out hope that accountability could salvage peace. That hope diminished sharply after a massacre at the [[Overlook]], orchestrated by Gideon’s betrayal in informing the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] of the community camp. While Firefly Constable Ed later compiled and released the Woodsmen Portfolio in May 2025, Pete still resisted open war, instead offering the [[Woodsmen]] a final path toward reconciliation.
That restraint was ultimately answered with violence. Weeks later, the [[Woodsmen]] supported by the [[Dark Carnival]], ambushed the [[Fireflies]] in Chernogorsk in an attempt to wipe them out. The attack failed, but Pete was wounded. The ambush confirmed to Pete that in spite of his efforts, coexistence was no longer possible and shortly thereafter, the discovery of Bart’s desecrated body at Bart’s Pond, accompanied by a signed threat from [[Woodsmen]] Wade, permanently altered Pete’s view of the group who were once his friends. Any remaining ambiguity was gone, and an enraged Pete gave a speech at Bart's pond before declaring open warfare against the [[Woodsmen]].

Amid this escalating conflict, Pete became increasingly involved with the emergence of Everett Reed and the Last Legion. Unlike many within the [[Fireflies]], Pete chose dialogue over immediate hostility. He and Reed engaged in long, often heated philosophical debates about justice, evil, and the cost of moral absolutism. Pete recognised in Reed’s Legion an unsettling reflection of what the [[Fireflies]] themselves could become if restraint and hope were abandoned.
These tensions peaked on August 26th, 2025, when Firefly Santiago attempted to massacre Legion members inside Pusta. Pete held a subsequent public trial, seeing it as essential to preserving the [[Fireflies]]’ integrity. The incident led to revised rules of engagement and reaffirmed Pete’s belief that internal accountability mattered as much as external threats. Reed’s decision to return the captured Firefly Juri after the verdict reinforced Pete’s view that dialogue, even with extremists, could still yield results. Eventually the Legion collapsed under pressure from multiple enemies, but Reed survived.

The war with the [[Woodsmen]] dragged on for months. Under Pete’s guidance, the [[Fireflies]] applied sustained pressure rather than indiscriminate violence. This strategy proved successful and eventually forced concessions: the [[Woodsmen]] relinquished Bart’s Pond and publicly denounced the [[Forsaken Loyalists]]. Pete also demanded Wade's admission and apology for the desecration of Bart’s burial place, but it never came. By September 2025, Pete achieved a tense peace between the factions, with one exception. He made it clear that Wade stood outside any agreement, and that if he were ever found alone, justice would be carried out.

==Death==

[[file:PeteRoberts4.png|thumb|600px|right|''Pete Roberts and [[Harry Churches]] during Pete’s final moments.'']]

Pete Roberts was patrolling the town of Solnichniy with the [[Fireflies]] on October 28th 2025, when he and Santiago were ambushed and captured by the [[Forsaken Loyalists]]. An argument ensued between Vadim and Pete regarding their past encounters, personal history, and the longstanding tensions between their factions. [[Vadim]] sought to test Pete’s convictions, ultimately forcing a coercive scenario in which Pete was commanded to kill Santiago or himself. Pete refused, instead attempting to take his own life, prompting [[Vadim]] to shoot Santiago, leaving him for dead; however, he survived.

[[Vadim]] forced Pete to broadcast a final message over the radio before firing a volley of rounds into his body, framing the event as a punishment to the [[Fireflies]] for intervening in the clubs’ interests for too long. As they fled, Everett Reed, who had been in the area, heard the shots from Vadim's gun, and ran over. Finding Pete in critical condition he grabbed him and moved him to a secret location where he attempted to stabilize him as best as possible.
Reed attempted an improvised and desperate operation on Pete, while declining assistance from the [[Fireflies]], who had been searching for Pete. Despite his catastrophic injuries and Reed’s limited medical capability, the operation stabilized Pete temporarily. Though the effort only brought him a brief reprieve, long enough to be moved to Pusta where he was met by most of the Fireflies, and [[Harry Churches]] who had come out of his self-imposed exile to assist the Fireflies during the crisis. Pete was assessed by [[Fireflies]]’ doctors, who concluded his wounds were fatal.

When doctors determined that Pete Roberts would not survive, his friends entered the surgical room to comfort him. Pete requested Harry’s pistol and, with assistance from Irish and Harry, was brought to Bart’s pond to deliver final words to his companions. After addressing several members of the group and urging the group not to succumb to vengeance, Pete used the pistol to end his life on November 1st 2025. Harry, along with Irish, witnessed the act. Following a brief gun salute, Harry retrieved Pete’s body, wrapping it up and returning it to Pusta for a proper funeral.

In the aftermath, some in the [[Fireflies]] became disillusioned with the ideals of hope and redemption that once shaped the group, while others held onto their principles even harder. Pete died a martyr and his legacy became central to the [[Fireflies]] ideology from then on. The group began a hunt for the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] and [[Vadim]], some in hopes of bringing justice and others chasing after vengeance. It was a tumultuous time for the group but they proved their resilience and continued fighting for hope in Pete’s honor.

==Notable relationships==

[[file:PeteRoberts5.jpeg|thumb|600px|left|''Pete Roberts and his closest freinds.'']]

'''[[Harry Churches]]''' - A mentor and close friend to Pete, Harry was the leader of the [[Fireflies]] when Pete joined, the two became close friends during the [[Masquerade]] conflict, and Pete proved himself a useful asset to the group, eventually being promoted to second in command. Pete became Harry’s successor when he left the [[Fireflies]], and was entrusted to lead the group on a hopeful path, true to the group's founding principles.

'''Irish''' - Pete saved Irish when they first met north of Pusta, and Irish was the first person Pete recruited to the [[Fireflies]]. Irish and Pete went through every war together, serving side by side until Pete’s death. Irish and Pete shared a beer together one last time at Bart’s pond during his final moments.

'''Carter R. Sturmin''' - As Pete’s right hand man Carter and Pete had a close relationship as brothers in arms. The two trusted each other implicitly, and Carter’s darker nature was a good balance to Pete’s hopeful attitude. Carter struggled greatly with Pete’s death, developing split personalities.

'''Everett Reed''' - Serving as a foil to Pete Roberts, Reed was both a rival and an ally to the Firefly leader. The two recognised that they had similar goals, however the leaders would often butt heads over conflicting methods. Despite this Reed performed an impromptu surgery on Pete after [[Vadim]]’s assault, before returning him to Pusta. Some are grateful to Reed for giving Pete enough time to say goodbye, while others believe if he’d just returned Pete to Pusta better trained doctors in the [[Fireflies]] might have been able to save him.

'''[[Vadim]]''' - As Pete’s killer, [[Vadim]] and Pete had a long running history. Having first met when Vadim hit Pete with his car in what was claimed to be an accident, [[Vadim]] later joined the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] and battled against the [[Fireflies]] as they disrupted the biker gang’s business activities across Chernarus. Eventually [[Vadim]] captured and shot Pete, mortally wounding him. [[Vadim]] attempted to cause Pete to betray his morals during his capture, however Pete refused, and [[Vadim]] was unable to break his spirit.

'''Bart''' - Firefly Bart was a jovial and chipper man, well known for cracking jokes, and generally being a kind soul. As he arrived in Chernarus he first met the [[Woodsmen]] while they were allies with the Fireflies. After they told him about the faction, Bart was inspired by their cause and joined the Fireflies. Bart and Pete became close friends and Pete took his death hard. After his death, Pete often made visits to the pond where Bart was buried to talk to his old friend.

'''Ida''' - One of the most compassionate souls within the [[Fireflies]], Ida was a close friend of Pete and a quiet pillar of the group’s conscience. Ida played an important role in maintaining the moral direction of the faction, often reminding others of the human cost behind their decisions. Pete believed deeply in her judgement and encouraged her to have more confidence in herself, seeing in her a strength that did not come from violence. Ida’s hopeful outlook and genuine care for others helped ground Pete during his time as leader, and she embodied the values he fought to protect long after his death.

Pete Roberts

2026-01-09T15:09:52Z

Harry: /* Death */

2025-12-16T15:21:07Z

Harry:

Harry Churches

2025-12-16T15:20:18Z

Harry: /* Actions */

[[Category:Notable Characters]]
==Overview==

'''Group/Faction Affiliation:''' The [[Fireflies]]

'''Status:''' Alive

'''Harry Churches''' is the founder of the [[Fireflies]]. He is on a mission of justice and sometimes vengeance against the criminals and bandits of South Zagoria. Harry was the first leader of the [[Fireflies]]. The [[Fireflies]] under his leadership fought to protect the innocent and rid the world of all the corrupt immoral survivors. He is known as someone who stands up for the little guy against the oppressive factions of Chernarus, and for his speeches of hope to all of the country. In recent years he has become infamous for his increasingly brutal methods after his departure from the [[Fireflies]].

==Appearance==

[[File:HarryChurchesWiki1.png|framed|upright=0.5|left]]

Harry Churches has historically been identifiable by his yellow armband which marked him as a Firefly, and was commonly seen wearing a rather simple choice of clothes; a black shirt and dark blue jeans. Since leaving the [[Fireflies]] he more commonly sports a black cloak, and tactical gear, but has rarely been seen up close.

==Origins==

Harry Churches grew up in England. He was an average man who lived an average life before the apocalypse. In his own words he “didn’t really accomplish much” during that period of his life. Harry’s father would always instill strong moral values in Harry making sure he understood the difference between right and wrong. As an adult Harry went on fishing trips with his father to get away from it all. After a week-long fishing trip with his father resulted in their boat capsizing he became stranded in a nearby country, and found out the world had collapsed while he’d been gone. After a few years of learning how to survive, he arrived in Chernarus in the beginning of 2020.

==Demeanor==

Harry Churches is considered by most to be a stubborn uncompromising man. He has a my way or the highway mentality, and has been known to be very blunt, and rudely honest. To put it in his words, "bad people are often charismatic, and I'm often a jerk." In dangerous scenarios he will not hesitate to get violent if the need presents itself, and historically he has not responded well to bragging about brutal actions or threats from his enemies.

==Actions==

Harry encountered a group known as the [[Black Cross]] shortly after his arrival. Their ideals and citizenship program gave Harry proof that a civilized society could still thrive even in a world like this. After witnessing the horrors and several massacres that took place in the subsequent months however, Harry came to the conclusion that rebuilding society is possible, but only if people are willing to fight to protect it. Harry then founded the Fireflies with a few others and created a group willing to do what is needed to save the innocent and one day restore society.

In the summer of 2020 a friend of Harry Churches, [[Kaylee]] of the [[Black Sheep]], was kidnapped by [[Dark as Midnight]], who wanted Kaylee for her unborn baby. In the altercation of her kidnapping Harry Churches was shot in the jaw and incapacitated, leaving him with a horrible scar on his chin. Harry carried immense guilt for not being able to stop her kidnapping and his scar served as a reminder never to hesitate in the face of evil again. The daughter of [[Kaylee]] was rescued however and after her mother's death Harry Churches grew an affinity for the baby [[Esther]] believing she represented a new hope for the world and wanting to protect her as penance for not saving her mother.

In the summer and autumn of 2021 Harry Churches gave several speeches. The most notable of which was known as the “Always Hope” speech. In the speech Harry inspires the people of Chernarus to hold onto their morals and calls for all bandits to start down a path of redemption. In another speech which took place at [[Samaritan]]'s funeral Harry stood up and addressed the entirety of Cheranrus calling everyone in attendance at the funeral a coward for not standing up to [[Samaritan]]'s murderers, and attempted to rally a war party of angry grief stricken friends of Samaritan to storm Gorka for revenge. After this Harry Churches became much more harsh in the way he combatted banditry and criminals, making several changes to the policy of the Fireflies.

[[file:FFBS1.png|thumb|600px|right|''[[Fireflies]] visiting the [[Black Sheep]]'']]

It was around this time that a young boy named Bobby River, a former Firefly and son-like figure to Harry Churches who had left for Torchwood, arrived in Pusta. Once he arrived the two had a conversation putting their bad history in the past and forgiving each other for pushing the other away. It was during this conversation that Harry admitted he saw Bobby like a son. Bobby then left to attempt to bridge another gap between him and Torchwood which had come about after he’d left their group as well, however this ended with the Warden of Torchwood forcing a newly indoctrinated recruit by the name of Wes Goodwin, who was also once a Firefly to shoot the child in the chest proving his devotion to Torchwood.

Bobby came to the [[Fireflies]] for help, who were able to remove the bullet and save his life thanks to some skillful surgery. The Wardens’ actions enraged Harry, reigniting a pre-existing rivalry between Torchwood and the Fireflies when Harry threatened Torchwood for what they’d done. After this [[Cain]] and the rest of [[Torchwood]] arrived at the gates of Pusta demanding that Harry Churches revoke his threat, but after refusing to do so, and hours of arguing, eventually [[Torchwood]] stormed the compound and in the ensuing battle Acolyte Peter was killed by Harry Churches. While Torchwood did succeed in taking the Firefly compound, it was at a high price due to Peter’s death.

Some time later in the winter of 2021 Harry Churches’ seemingly indomitable will power was broken. He left the [[Fireflies]] and Chernarus fleeing to Takistan with the intention of living out the rest of his days alone in the seclusion of the desert. Harry returned a few months later in early 2022 however, after hearing the news that the baby [[Esther]] had been kidnapped and murdered. Upon returning Harry frantically searched for the baby and found out the unfortunate news was true. This led to Harry beginning a quest of revenge against the groups involved and restarting the [[Fireflies]], turning him into a much more bitter and brutal man over time as his crusade for justice had become personal.

Harry led the new [[Fireflies]] for the remainder of 2022 from the shadows, conducting guerrilla strikes on their enemies. This included targeting the new inhabitants of Pusta, known as the [[Pirates of Pusta]]. Harry captured a crewman, and attempted to blackmail [[Captain Biscuits]] into attacking [[Fireflies]]' enemies to little success. The Pirates’ unwillingness to cooperate despite the danger towards his crewman’s life put the pirate king on Harry's radar as a ruthless and selfish man.

In late 2022, Harry met an uncontacted tribe called the [[Nuckcha Yaghir]]. Harry was taken with their kindness, specifically from a member of the tribe named Krolk. Despite there being a language barrier between the two, Krolk and Harry spent a long time learning each other's language and culture. Harry had a deep respect for the [[Nuckcha Yaghir]] because of Krolk. Eventually the tribe moved on from the spot in which Harry had been meeting them, leaving Harry without a way to contact the tribe.

The [[Fireflies]] refocused on the Pirates, and the Captain's disregard for Harry's threats towards the lives of his captured men, would eventually lead to Harry adding him to the Black Book as “[https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/14l5rnd/the_black_book_entry_1_the_captain/ The Captain].” This book was a list of Harry's enemies, who he considered too far gone, and marked for execution. The [[Fireflies]] captured Alan Biscuits in a final battle on July 22nd, 2023. Harry would go on to torture the Captain at a secret location for the remainder of his life. Harry sought to get information from the Captain, but the details of the interrogation remain unknown. It displayed the increasing extremes Harry was going to in order to punish banditry, as well as the growing hold his hatred had over him.

On November 20th 2023, Harry captured the president of the [[Forsaken Loyalists]], a biker gang led by [[Joe Fraser]]. Joe attempted to barter for his life, and initially claimed the right of parley. Harry intended to kill Joe regardless, however, Joe offered Harry Churches a “blank cheque” for sparing his life that day, a favor which Harry held onto for many years.

[[file:Biscuits_Death.jpeg|thumb|600px|left|''[[Captain Biscuits]]’ execution inside the Fireflies’ compound.'']]

On February 13th 2024, the [[Fireflies]] hosted a public execution of Captain Biscuits at Harry’s hand. The event was attacked by the [[Forsaken Loyalists]] but after a long gunfight, the attackers were repelled. Another criminal, [[Oz]] the leader of the [[Wizards]], was also captured by Firefly Carter, and handed over to [[Bobs]] of the Black Sheep, who killed [[Oz]] that day in Pusta, by beheading him with a sword during the firefight. During the battle, Harry jumped in front of a bullet while wearing a plate carrier to protect an injured [[Bobs]], saving his friend's life.

Later that month, a new threat emerged, a group named the [[Blackthorn Gang]]. Led by [[Alastor Blackthorn]]. The gang resorted to murder and brutality to coerce other communities of survivors into providing a steady stream of food and other supplies. Naturally this led to a war between the two groups, when Carter was taken hostage, dangled from an apartment building, and Harry negotiated for his freedom. Initially the war went very badly for the [[Fireflies]]. On February 27th 2024, Alastor was added to the Black Book as “[https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/1b1isqy/the_black_book_entry_2_the_dead_man/ The Dead Man]” for his brutal and sociopathic actions, as Harry was certain he would bring about his own doom sooner or later. Harry Churches began questioning his own leadership during this time, but eventually doubled down and delivered several hard blows to the gang.

Harry met to parley with Alastor in late April 2024, where he offered the gang the chance to leave, forebodingly warning Alastor that Harry had seen where the tyrant’s path leads and it wouldn’t end well for him. The talks collapsed however when the two groups' overwatchers engaged each other and any hope to end the war was gone. Harry became fast comrades with a Firefly named Irish, who suffered greatly with war psychosis. The two bonded heavily during the war, and were a ruthless duo.

On May 28th 2024, Harry met Nukdal of the [[Nuckcha Yaghir]] tribe, whom he’d previously met with Krolk. When Nukdal claimed to have killed Krolk, Harry at first thought it was a mistranslation, but repeated questions confirmed it. Unwilling to kill a member of an endangered, usually peaceful tribe, Harry let Nukdal go, warning that if they met again he would kill him, effectively ending his ties with the tribe.

On 27th July 2024, the [[Fireflies]] confronted [[Mike Callahan]], a former [[Blackthorn Gang]] member who had defected. To Harry, who had seen the suffering inflicted by men like Mike, any leniency seemed dangerous. When Mike refused to turn over information on his former comrades, Harry saw it as cowardice, and loyalty to cruelty over accountability. [[Pete Roberts]], Harry's right hand, and most of the other [[Fireflies]] argued for redemption, believing even Mike could change. Harry could not share their optimism; experience had taught him that evil rarely yielded and that mercy often came at a cost. The disagreement revealed a deeper divide, and Harry realised he could no longer stand with those who believed hope alone could protect the innocent.

On 4th August 2024, Harry stepped down as leader of the [[Fireflies]], placing [[Pete Roberts]] in command. Pete took the group in a direction that emphasized hope and the potential for redemption, while maintaining the [[Fireflies]]’ foundational principles. Harry was convinced that his own cynicism, and willingness to do what others could not was incompatible with the hope the group needed to represent, and left the [[Fireflies]] entirely. From this point forward, Harry Churches became a solitary figure in Chernarus, patrolling the wilderness independently as a vigilante. Operating by his own code, he delivered brutal justice to those he deemed beyond salvation, believing that the world required both hope and those willing to do what hope alone could not achieve. Harry left the Black Book in his office for Pete to find, and Irish, who was among the few [[Fireflies]] who agreed with Harry, took his departure particularly hard.

[[file:Harryafterleaving.png|thumb|600px|right|''Harry after leaving the Fireflies.'']]

On 24th September 2024, Harry Churches nearly killed his close friend [[Bobs]] of the Black Sheep after learning he planned to give food to the [[Blackthorn Gang]] to buy time. Hardened and disillusioned since leaving the [[Fireflies]], Harry saw the deal as cowardice that endangered everyone. In a surge of anger, he fired into [[Bobs]]’ greenhouse, destroying the food instead of killing him. Shocked by how close he came to murdering a friend, Harry walked away, wondering if his fight for a safer world was turning him into the very thing he feared. Shortly afterwards [[Bobs]] stood up to Alastor, making him appear weak in front of his gang.

In November 2024, [[Alastor Blackthorn]] was killed in a coup orchestrated by Mike Callahan, who had returned to the [[Blackthorn Gang]] with a cadre of loyalists convinced that Alastor was a traitor. As Alastor was confronted and stabbed repeatedly, he fell to the ground. While he lay dying, a hallucination of Harry Churches appeared to him, whispering, “You‘re a dead man” as Alastor bled out. For Harry, Mike’s coup confirmed what he had suspected: the [[Fireflies]] weren’t wrong in their ideals, hope and redemption still mattered, but in his eyes, they were blind to men like Callahan, who could not be allowed to use hope to buy themselves time, only to strike again. The mission needed both dreamers and pragmatists, and in that balance, both were justified.

On January 7th, 2025, clowns from the [[Dark Carnival]] arrived in Pusta to kidnap a survivor. A Firefly named Ed stood his ground alone and outnumbered, protecting the survivor. As the lead clown pulled his gun, Harry Churches intervened from the shadows by firing a rifle shot that hit the clown in the head. A gunfight ensued, and the clowns were repelled. Once the survivor was safe Harry vanished into the forest once more, remaining largely unseen, but ever vigilant.

In July 2025, after nearly one year of living on the road, Harry returned briefly to Pusta to deliver supplies. Harry took a quiet moment to observe what was once his home, admiring that it remained a place of hope and justice, before leaving. A great tragedy struck only a few months later. On October 28th 2025, [[Pete Roberts]] was shot by the [[Forsaken Loyalists]]. Harry emerged from his exile to support the [[Fireflies]] and spent days searching for Pete without rest. Briefly returning to his old office, Harry took the Black Book back and noticed that Pete, hopeful as he was, had made no entries.

When Pete was finally returned to Pusta by a survivor, Firefly doctors confirmed his wounds were fatal. Harry was present on November 1st when Pete died. He carried him to Bart’s pond, where Pete used Harry’s handgun to end his suffering. Harry turned back and saw the shot with the intention to use the pain to drive him forward, but losing his successor, the man who embodied the [[Fireflies]]’ hope, broke something in Harry. He recovered Pete’s body, returning it to Pusta for a later funeral. With Pete gone, Harry believed hope was dead and the [[Fireflies]] obsolete. He became convinced that only the total eradication of all evil, bandits, collaborators, and anyone enabling them, could save Chernarus now. On November 17th, he added [[Vadim]], Pete’s killer, to the Black Book as “[https://www.reddit.com/r/dayzunderground/comments/1ozerbx/the_black_book_reintroduction_entry_3_the/ The Hopebreaker].”

==Notable relationships==

Harry Churches has made his fair share of enemies & allies during his time in Chernarus. The following are notable people who have either come to blows or had strong friendships with Harry Churches.

'''[[Cain the Messiah]]''' - Cain and Harry have always strived to make the world a better place in different ways making their relationship particularly unique. In the early days of the [[Fireflies]], Cain the leader of [[Torchwood]] initially wanted to help the upcoming group creating an alliance between the two. On August 3rd 2020 however, Cain brought what was perceived as a child hostage to the Firefly compound resulting in the outbreak of a war after the [[Fireflies]] liberated the hostage. Over the years the two characters have momentarily put their differences aside for temporary alliances against greater evils, however these alliances have always ended shortly afterwards, resulting in the two becoming at odds once again.

'''Matt''' - Given his name by Harry for the hazmat suit he always wore, Matt was a close friend of Harry Churches and right hand man to the group leader. Matt was the archetype of a Firefly, and everything Harry respected. The two became very close after Matt’s impressive actions in their war against Torchwood when freeing a hostage. In late 2021 however, Matt discovered love and left the Fireflies to live a peaceful life outside of Chernarus, occasionally revealing himself in times of need to support his friend. His choice to leave created a rift between the two, however they remained good friends. To this day Matt has not been seen for some time.

'''Kelemvor (Kel)''' - Kel was a friend and neighbor of Harry Churches while he lived as a Black Cross citizen. Kel has been described by Harry as an innocent soul, who was always good for a laugh, however after the death of a mutual friend Kelemvor was never the same and devolved into insanity believing their friend was actually still alive. During the funeral Kel took his own life while giving a speech at the altar. Harry was not able to save him as he was out of town at the time. His unfortunate death drove Harry further towards becoming a good person again, inspiring Harry to live for Kel and his legacy.

'''Bobby River''' - Bobby River is a young boy who was taken in by the Fireflies and brought under Harry’s wing. Their relationship is similar to that of a dysfunctional father and son. Bobby made many choices in his life after leaving the Fireflies which Harry did not approve of pushing the two further apart, leading Bobby into the hands of Harry’s enemies; Torchwood and the Rangers. Over time the two have managed to set aside their differences and forgive each other for pushing the other away.

'''[[Pete Roberts]]''' - Pete was Harry’s right hand man, after Matt, and later became his successor. Harry not only trusted Pete as a comrade, but as a leader capable of keeping hope alive even when Harry no longer could. On the day Pete died, Harry Churches described him as “the greatest man I’ve ever known” and Pete’s death was a major turning point for Harry.

'''Irish''' - Brothers in arms for many years, Harry and Irish are an unstoppable and ruthless duo. During Harry’s time serving with Irish in the [[Fireflies]], the two were often by each other's side, agreeing on the use of brutal methods to protect the innocent, and punish bandits. After leaving the [[Fireflies]], Harry kept in touch with Irish the most, and Irish remains Harry’s closest friend.

'''[[Bobs]]''' - Harry Churches and Bobs of the Black Sheep, were allies for many years, and once considered each other brothers. The two worked together to fight the [[Wizards]], and Bobs was Harry’s closest friend outside of the [[Fireflies]]. After Harry raised his gun on Bobs over the Sheep’s reluctant support of the [[Blackthorn Gang]], their friendship shattered. The two have not spoken since.

==Where are they now?==

Harry Churches is still alive today and stalks survivors from the forests and hills of Chernarus, hunting bandits, criminals, and his personal enemies night and day. To some he still represents hope, to others he is a punisher of evil. His legacy, though now shrouded in darkness, lives on in the hearts and minds of many survivors, reminding them to fight for what’s right, no matter what.

Harry Churches

2025-12-16T15:19:54Z

2025-12-16T14:52:39Z

Harry: