The next afternoon, the scouting team from the nursing home arrived at the Greene farm. Guillermo led the group, accompanied by Felipe, a trusted lieutenant, and two other gang members. Their cautious demeanor suggested they were ready for anything.
Rick, Marcus, and Hershel were waiting near the entrance. As Guillermo stepped out of the truck, his sharp eyes scanned the farm.
"Nice setup you've got here," Guillermo said.
"It's safe, but there's work to do," Rick replied. "Come on, let's show you around."
Touring the Farm
Marcus led the group through the property, pointing out the fences, the barn, and the open fields. "The space makes it easier to see walkers coming, but the fences need reinforcement."
Hershel chimed in reluctantly. "This is a farm, not a military base. I've allowed some improvements, but I won't have this land turned into a battlefield."
Guillermo nodded, understanding Hershel's reservations. "We're not looking to take over. Just trying to find a better situation for our people."
Discussing the Challenges
Later, the group gathered near the farmhouse to talk logistics.
"We've got about twenty people, most of them elderly," Guillermo explained. "They'll need shelter, food, and care."
"We'll make room," Rick assured him. "But we'll need everyone to pull their weight, however they can."
Felipe asked, "What about security? Walkers aren't the only threat out there."
Marcus stepped forward. "We're working on setting up patrols and securing the perimeter. If your group joins us, we'll be stronger together."
Guillermo leaned back, considering. "It's a big decision. But I like what I've seen so far."
Building Trust
During their stay, Guillermo and his men helped with chores around the farm. They reinforced a section of the fence and assisted Daryl and Shane in scouting the nearby woods for threats.
The collaboration began to break down initial barriers. Carol even shared a meal with Felipe, who told her stories about his grandmother back at the nursing home.
"You've got a good group here," Felipe said to Marcus later that night.
Marcus nodded. "So do you. I hope we can make this work."
The Final Decision
Before leaving, Guillermo spoke privately with Rick and Marcus.
"We'll bring our people here," Guillermo said. "But it's a big move. We'll need help transporting everyone safely."
"You've got it," Rick replied without hesitation.
As the scouting team drove away, the group felt a renewed sense of purpose. The farm was beginning to feel like a true sanctuary, but they knew that challenges lay ahead.