The alarm's deafening wail echoed across the outskirts, shattering the fragile calm and plunging the area into utter chaos. Kaden woke up Lila quickly, as she woke up, panic settled on her face instantly, driving away the sleepiness from her face.
"Don't worry, it's going to be alright". Kaden assured her as snatched the small bundle of belongings he kept for emergencies—a tattered blanket and a half-empty bottle of water—and grabbed Lila's trembling hand. But even he didn't believe his words.
The air was alive with panic. Families screamed, scrambled, and stumbled over each other, clutching loved ones as if sheer desperation could save them from the approaching horror.
Through the speakers scattered around the outskirts, a monotone voice blared over the chaos:
"Attention! A level one portal has opened. Repeat, a level one portal has opened. All residents are advised to evacuate immediately."
