The Greene farm buzzed with activity as the group prepared for the arrival of the nursing home residents. Marcus took charge, assigning tasks to ensure everything was ready. Despite the group's growing bond, tensions simmered as unexpected threats arose to test their resolve.
Preparing for New Arrivals
The first step was expanding the camp. Marcus and Daryl worked on strengthening the fence, using scavenged materials to fortify weak points. Glenn and Maggie set up additional tents near the barn, while Carol and Beth organized the kitchen to accommodate more people.
"Hope the nursing home group doesn't mind a little rough living," Glenn joked, hammering stakes into the ground.
Maggie smirked. "I think they'll appreciate any place that's not overrun with walkers."
Meanwhile, Rick and Hershel discussed how to integrate the new arrivals into the farm's daily routine. Hershel remained hesitant but agreed to allocate a section of the farm for temporary housing.
"We'll make it work," Rick assured him.
Daryl's Discovery
While scouting the woods, Daryl stumbled upon an unsettling sight: a half-eaten deer carcass surrounded by walker tracks. He examined the scene closely, noting fresh footprints that suggested a group of walkers might be nearby.
Returning to the farm, Daryl reported his findings.
"We've got company coming," he said grimly. "A herd, maybe. We'd better be ready."
Marcus nodded. "We'll set up a watch rotation. Everyone needs to stay alert."
Unexpected Visitors
Later that afternoon, as the group worked, a pair of strangers approached the farm. One was a wiry man with a rifle slung over his shoulder; the other was a woman carrying a machete.
Rick stepped forward cautiously. "Who are you, and what do you want?"
The man raised his hands in a show of peace. "Name's Carter. This is Lila. We're just passing through, looking for supplies."
Marcus studied them closely, his system flashing a notification: "Unknown Faction: Trust Level Low."
"We don't have much to spare," Rick said. "But we might be able to help if you're honest with us."
Lila frowned. "We're honest enough. But if you're turning us away, we'll move on."
The tension was palpable as the strangers waited for a response.
A Walker Attack
Before a decision could be made, a scream echoed from the edge of the farm. Carol, who had been gathering water, was running toward the group with walkers close behind.
"Walkers!" she shouted.
The group sprang into action. Marcus grabbed his crowbar while Daryl and Rick fired their weapons. Carter and Lila, proving their intentions, joined the fight.
The battle was chaotic but brief. Marcus dispatched a walker with a decisive blow, earning another skill notification: "Skill Upgraded: Efficient Walker Neutralization (Advanced)."
When the last walker fell, the group regrouped, breathing heavily.
Decisions and Warnings
"Thanks for the help," Rick said to Carter and Lila, though his tone remained guarded.
"No problem," Carter replied. "Seems like trouble follows you."
"We're used to it," Marcus said. "You're welcome to stay for the night, but no funny business."
Carter nodded. "Fair enough. We'll be gone by morning."
Later, Rick and Marcus discussed the encounter.
"We can't trust everyone who shows up," Rick said.
"I know," Marcus replied. "But they might be useful. Let's keep an eye on them."
A Growing Threat
As night fell, Daryl spotted movement in the distance: a small group of walkers, likely scouts for a larger herd.
"They're getting closer," Daryl warned.
Marcus tightened his grip on his weapon. "We need to be ready—for the herd and for anything else that comes our way."