The journey with their newfound companions had been surprisingly uneventful for the first few days. Mallory, accustomed to chaos, had grown suspicious of the calm. As they moved through the remnants of the old city, the silence weighed heavier than ever. It wasn't just the absence of zombies or raiders—it was the knowledge that peace like this never lasted.
Jason and Liam had integrated well enough into the group. Jason's sharp eyes and steady demeanor complemented Kaelyn's no-nonsense leadership, while Liam, eager to prove himself, bonded quickly with Zara, who had taken on the role of his mentor in all things survival. Even Vanessa had softened toward their new allies, although she maintained her usual sarcastic edge.
