The journey had been exhausting, but they were finally at their destination. In the distance, an imposing wall of metal and concrete rose among the ruins of the old world. Diamond City.
—Well... here we are —Piper said with a smile—. Ready to see what's waiting for us inside?
Izuku nodded, while Nora looked at the structure cautiously.
—It looks like an improvised fortress —she commented—. I wouldn't be surprised if they have tight security.
They approached the entrance, where a guard in combat armor with a rifle stopped them with a gesture.
—Halt. Business in the city?
Izuku stepped forward.
**(Option 1: "We're just passing through, looking for supplies.")**
**(Option 2: "We want information and resources. We're not looking for trouble.")**
**(Option 3: [Charisma] "We're going to spend a good amount of caps here. You wouldn't want us to take our money elsewhere, right?")**
If Izuku chooses Option 3 and passes the charisma check:
—Hmm… well, I guess it doesn't hurt to let customers with money in. But don't do anything suspicious.
**EXP +25**
The guard stepped aside, and the group entered Diamond City.
### **A Different World**
Unlike the wasteland, the city had a lively atmosphere. The streets were full of merchants, mechanics, and citizens leading what appeared to be a normal life.
—Wow… this is way more than I expected —Nora said, amazed.
—People here manage to live with a certain level of normalcy —Piper commented—. But don't be fooled. In this place, secrets are more common than bullets.
As they walked through the market, they stopped at a weapons stall where an older merchant greeted them.
—If you're looking for ammo or weapons, this is your place —he said with a confident smile—. Though of course… nothing is free.
Izuku checked the inventory, making sure to buy ammunition and some upgrade parts for his weapons.
**EXP +15 for successful transaction**
After stocking up, they decided to listen to some rumors.
—They say there's a fight show at the Combat Zone that's gotten out of control —murmured a market customer—. It used to be just a place to bet on fights... but now, anyone who enters might not come out.
Izuku exchanged a look with Piper and Nora.
—Sounds like something we could check out —Piper said.
In addition to the Combat Zone, they also heard rumors about missing caravans and a possible raider settlement near the river.
—Seems like this city never stops having problems —Nora commented.
Izuku nodded. Although they had come for supplies, they now had more information about the world they were in.
—We'd better rest and decide what to do next —Izuku said.
With bags full of ammo and new rumors in their minds, the group prepared for what was to come.
---
End of Chapter 18