Chapter 35: Into the Unknown

  May 5, 20XX – 6:15 AM

  Takagi Estate – Blake’s Room

  Blake Henderson woke with a jolt, the faint haze of a dream clinging stubbornly to his mind. He sat up in the plush bed, beads of sweat clinging to his forehead, the remnants of his subconscious lingering like shadows in the corners of his vision. The dream wasn’t clear—it never was—but he remembered snippets: a distant gunshot echoing through an empty street, the sound of a child’s laughter that abruptly turned into a shriek, and a pair of hands reaching out to him before vanishing into darkness.

  ‘Why do I keep dreaming about that day?’ he thought, running a hand through his disheveled hair. It was the same sensation that had been haunting him since the outbreak began—the feeling of being on the edge of something catastrophic, yet powerless to stop it.

  The room around him was still, the soft glow of the rising sun filtering through the curtains. Blake glanced at the clock on the nightstand. It read 6:15 AM. The resupply mission was scheduled to begin in a couple of hours, but for now, the mansion was quiet.

  Taking a deep breath, Blake swung his legs over the side of the bed, his bare feet meeting the cool hardwood floor. He stood and stretched, the ache of yesterday’s exertion still lingering in his muscles. His mind wandered to the mission ahead—a supply run into the city with Souichiro Takagi’s men. It was supposed to be straightforward, but Blake had a sinking feeling that "straightforward" rarely applied to their current world.

  As Blake walked to the bathroom, the mansion’s eerie silence reminded him of how fragile their existence had become. Every moment of rest felt borrowed, and every plan felt like a gamble. He splashed cold water on his face, hoping to wash away the tension clinging to his thoughts. Staring at his reflection, he muttered under his breath, "One step at a time, Henderson. You’ve got this."

  After dressing in his now-familiar combat gear—a mix of practicality and scavenged necessity—he buckled on his vest and ensured his crowbar was secured at his side. The weapon had become an extension of himself, a lifeline in close combat when bullets ran scarce.

  Blake made his way downstairs, his boots echoing softly against the wooden staircase. The scent of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, mingling with the faint hum of conversation from the kitchen. As he entered the dining room, he found Saya already seated, her laptop open and a half-eaten piece of toast in her hand.

  Saya glanced up from her screen, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took him in. "You look like hell."

  Blake chuckled, though the weariness in his voice was evident. "Good morning to you too, Saya."

  "Rough night?" she asked, her tone softer this time.

  Blake nodded as he poured himself a cup of coffee. "Dreams. Nothing new. You?"

  Saya hesitated before shrugging. "Just going over the maps and routes again. If we’re doing this, we can’t afford mistakes."

  Her words carried a weight that Blake understood all too well. He took a seat across from her, sipping his coffee as he watched her work.

  Over the next thirty minutes, the rest of the group trickled in. Takashi, looking like he had slept in his combat gear, gave a tired wave before grabbing a plate of food. Kohta was already wide awake and chatting animatedly with Shizuka about firearm maintenance, while Rei sat quietly, eating and listening to the conversations around her.

  Blake leaned back in his chair, addressing the group as a whole. "So, is everyone clear on the plan?"

  Kohta looked up, his enthusiasm evident. "I’ve got the loadout ready. We’re light on ammo, but I’ve optimized the load for maximum efficiency. And grenades—we’ve got grenades now!"

  Takashi shot him a wary glance. "Just don’t get carried away with those, alright?"

  Saya smirked, closing her laptop. "Don’t worry about the grenades. Focus on the fact that we’ll be navigating through a city still crawling with zombies. The key here is precision, not brute force."

  Rei spoke up, her voice steady but tinged with concern. "And what if we run into survivors? Or worse, another group like Shido’s?"

  The room fell silent at the mention of Shido. The memory of their encounter with the deranged teacher still lingered like a bad taste. Blake broke the silence. "We’ll deal with it if it happens. For now, let’s focus on getting in and out without attracting too much attention. The quieter we are, the better."

  The group finished their breakfast and made their way to the garage, where the Humvee awaited them. Matsudo, the estate mechanic, greeted them with a curt nod as he finished his final checks on the vehicle. "She’s ready to roll. Just make sure you don’t wreck her."

  Blake chuckled, patting the hood of the Humvee. "We’ll try not to, but no promises."

  As they loaded their gear into the vehicle, Saya went over the route once more. "We’ll stick to the main streets for the initial stretch, but once we’re near the target area, we’ll have to go on foot. There’s too much debris for the Humvee to navigate."

  Kohta secured the ammunition crates in the back, double-checking their inventory. "What about fallback points? Do we have a rally point in case things go south?"

  Saya nodded. "There’s a small parking structure a few blocks from the target area. If we get separated, regroup there."

  Blake adjusted his vest, his gaze sweeping over the group. "Alright. Everyone ready?"

  Takashi nodded, his shotgun slung over his shoulder. "Let’s do this."

  May 5, 20XX – 7:10 AM

  Takagi Estate – Garage

  The group finished loading up the Humvee, their chatter a mix of nervous excitement and focused determination. The morning air was crisp, though the tension among them hung as heavy as the clouds forming in the distant sky. Matsudo gave the vehicle one last pat, muttering something about "hoping it comes back in one piece" before retreating to his workbench.

  Blake stood by the driver’s side door, doing a final check of their gear. His crowbar was strapped securely to his side, and his holstered sidearm felt heavy but reassuring. Across from him, Kohta fiddled with one of the grenades they had packed, his fingers tracing its contours like a kid with a new toy.

  “You’re enjoying that a little too much,” Saya said, standing nearby with her arms crossed.

  Kohta grinned, holding up the grenade like a prize. “Can you blame me? It’s not every day you get to play with military-grade equipment. Don’t worry, I’ll be careful.”

  “Right,” Saya muttered, rolling her eyes. “Just try not to blow us up before we even get there.”

  Rei leaned against the side of the Humvee, her brows furrowed. “We should go over the plan again before we leave. There’s no such thing as being too prepared.”

  Takashi nodded, standing a few feet away as he adjusted the sling on his shotgun. “Agreed. Let’s make sure everyone’s clear on their roles and fallback options.”

  Blake glanced at Saya, who pulled out a folded map from her pocket and spread it out on the hood of the Humvee. The group gathered around, their expressions a mix of focus and unease.

  Saya tapped the map, pointing to a circled area in the heart of the city. “This is our target—an old shopping complex that dad’s men scouted a few days ago. They found a stockpile of non-perishable food and medical supplies in the lower levels, but it was overrun with zombies before they could secure it.”

  Kohta leaned in, squinting at the map. “And we’re supposed to clear it out? Sounds like a suicide mission if we’re not careful.”

  “That’s why we’re going in with a plan,” Saya shot back. She traced a route leading to the complex. “The Humvee will get us as close as possible, but we’ll have to go on foot once we’re near. There’s too much debris for the vehicle to navigate safely.”

  Rei frowned. “And what about the zombies? What’s the estimated number we’re dealing with?”

  “Unknown,” Saya admitted. “But based on what my father’s men reported, it’s manageable if we stick together and move quickly. The key is to avoid getting bogged down in one spot.”

  Blake crossed his arms, his gaze sweeping over the group. “And fallback points? If things go sideways, where do we regroup?”

  Saya pointed to a parking structure a few blocks from the target. “Here. It’s relatively secure and has multiple exit points. If we get separated, head there and wait until we regroup.”

  Takashi nodded, his expression grim. “Alright. Sounds solid enough. But we need to keep our heads on a swivel out there. One mistake, and it’s over.”

  As they wrapped up their discussion, a distant thrum filled the air, growing louder with each passing second. The group looked up, their gazes scanning the sky until a black speck appeared on the horizon.

  Blake squinted, his sharp eyes catching the glint of sunlight off the helicopter’s rotors. “Is that… JSDF?”

  Saya nodded, her expression thoughtful. “Yeah. Looks like a recon helicopter. They’ve been conducting flyovers to survey the city for ground forces. My dad mentioned it last night.”

  The sound of the helicopter grew louder as it passed overhead, the wind from its rotors stirring up dust and loose leaves. The group watched in silence, a mixture of hope and unease washing over them.

  “Think they’ll spot us down here?” Kohta asked, shielding his eyes from the sun.

  “Doubt it,” Blake replied. “They’re probably focused on mapping out the city and identifying hotspots. We’re small fish compared to the larger issues they’re dealing with.”

  Rei crossed her arms, her gaze lingering on the helicopter as it disappeared into the distance. “It’s strange, isn’t it? Knowing there are still organized forces out there. Makes you wonder how much longer they’ll hold out.”

  “Longer than us if we don’t stay sharp,” Blake said, his tone firm. “Let’s not get distracted. We’ve got a job to do.”

  Back in the garage, Matsudo returned with a small tool kit, which he handed to Blake. “Just in case something happens to the Humvee. It’s not much, but it might save your skin.”

  Blake accepted the kit with a nod of thanks. “Appreciate it. Let’s hope we don’t need it.”

  Saya folded up the map and stuffed it into her pocket. “Alright, let’s do one last gear check. I don’t want anyone realizing they forgot something when we’re halfway there.”

  The group spent the next few minutes checking their weapons and equipment. Blake tightened the straps on his vest, making sure his crowbar was secure. Kohta carefully loaded extra magazines into his bag, his eyes lighting up as he inspected the grenades one last time.

  Takashi adjusted the fit of his shotgun sling, while Rei tested the weight of her spear, giving it a few practice thrusts. Saya, ever meticulous, double-checked the contents of her bag, her fingers brushing over the radio and spare ammunition she had packed.

  “Everyone ready?” Blake asked, his voice steady despite the unease bubbling beneath the surface.

  The group nodded, their expressions resolute.

  As they moved toward the Humvee, the sound of approaching footsteps caught their attention. Souichiro Takagi emerged from the mansion, his presence commanding as always. He stopped a few feet away, his sharp eyes scanning the group.

  “Before you leave,” he began, his voice calm but firm, “remember this: the city is no longer a place of rules or order. It’s chaos, and you’ll need to be prepared for anything. Trust each other, and trust your instincts. They’ll be the difference between life and death.”

  Blake met Souichiro’s gaze, nodding. “We’ll bring back the supplies. You have my word.”

  Souichiro’s lips curved into a faint smile. “I believe you will. Stay sharp.”

  With that, he stepped back, allowing the group to climb into the Humvee. Blake took the driver’s seat, with Kohta riding shotgun. Saya, Takashi, and Rei piled into the back, their gear stowed securely.

  As the engine roared to life, Blake gripped the wheel, his eyes focused on the road ahead. “Alright, team. Let’s get this done.”

  The Humvee rolled out of the garage and onto the estate grounds, the gates opening to let them pass. The distant hum of the helicopter had faded, replaced by the low rumble of the engine as they headed toward the city.

  The mission had begun.

  May 5, 20XX – 7:35 AM

  On the Road to the City

  The Humvee cruised steadily along the main road, the distant skyline of Tokonosu City shrouded in a haze of morning fog and ash. The air outside was eerily silent, save for the occasional rustle of leaves stirred by the wind. Inside the vehicle, the tension was palpable, each member of the group lost in their own thoughts as they mentally prepared for the mission ahead.

  Breaking the silence, Rei leaned forward slightly from her seat in the back, glancing at Blake. “I still can’t believe Shizuka-sensei isn’t coming with us. It feels… weird without her.”

  Blake kept his eyes on the road, his hands steady on the wheel. “She wanted to come, but Souichiro thought it’d be better if she stayed back to help monitor the situation at the estate. Makes sense, though—her medical skills are invaluable there.”

  Saya chimed in, her tone sharp but thoughtful. “My father made the right call. She’s not exactly… combat-ready. If something happened to her out here, we’d be down our only real medic. And let’s be honest, she’s not the stealthiest person around.”

  Kohta snickered, glancing back over his shoulder. “Yeah, she’s more likely to trip over something and blow our cover.”

  Rei frowned, her brows knitting together. “That’s not fair. Shizuka-sensei’s done a lot for us. Just because she’s not a fighter doesn’t mean she’s useless.”

  Blake spoke up, his tone firm but calm. “No one said she was useless. She’s just more valuable where she is right now. We’ll make it through this mission, and when we get back, she’ll be there waiting for us.”

  Rei nodded, though her expression remained troubled. She sank back into her seat, her hands gripping her spear tightly.

  Kohta adjusted his glasses and leaned forward, tapping the dashboard. “By the way, are we meeting up with Mr. Takagi’s men somewhere? Or are we doing this solo?”

  Saya sighed, pulling the map from her pocket and unfolding it on her lap. “We’re meeting them at a designated rendezvous point just outside the city limits. They’ve already secured the perimeter and will be assisting with the operation. But don’t expect them to hold our hands—they’re primarily focused on securing the supplies. Clearing out the zombies will mostly fall on us.”

  Blake glanced at her, raising an eyebrow. “That sounds… counterproductive. Why not have them take the lead? They’ve got more manpower and resources.”

  “Because they don’t have the same skill set we do,” Saya replied matter-of-factly. “My father’s men are trained for conventional combat, and are not experienced in fighting close-quarters combat with the zombies like us. They’re not equipped for this kind of operation, especially without pointmen. That’s where we come in.”

  Kohta chuckled, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “Oh, great. So we’re the cannon fodder.”

  “No,” Saya snapped, glaring at him. “We’re the specialists. There’s a difference.”

  Blake smirked slightly, shaking his head. “Call it whatever you want. Just stay focused, and we’ll get through this.”

  As the Humvee rolled on, the atmosphere grew heavier. The city loomed closer with every passing mile, its jagged silhouette a stark reminder of the chaos that awaited them. The group fell into an uneasy silence, each person lost in their thoughts.

  Blake’s mind wandered to the dream he had woken from earlier. Images of his family flashed through his mind—his father’s stern face, his mother’s warm smile. He wondered if they were safe, if they were thinking about him. The thought fueled his resolve, sharpening his focus on the mission ahead.

  Rei glanced out the window, her grip tightening on her spear. She thought of her father, of the promise she had made to find him. The uncertainty gnawed at her, but she pushed it aside, steeling herself for what was to come.

  Kohta, ever the pragmatist, was mentally running through his inventory, calculating the optimal use of each grenade and bullet. His hands itched for action, but he knew better than to rush into a fight unprepared.

  Saya, seated beside Blake, studied the map in her lap, her brows furrowed in concentration. She was determined to prove herself, to show her father that she was capable of more than just standing on the sidelines. But beneath her determination lay a flicker of doubt—what if she wasn’t ready?

  The low, rhythmic thrum of a helicopter’s rotors broke the silence, drawing everyone’s attention. Kohta craned his neck, peering out the windshield. “Another one? That’s the second one we’ve seen today.”

  Blake slowed the Humvee slightly, his eyes scanning the sky until he spotted the aircraft. It was a JSDF reconnaissance helicopter, its sleek frame cutting through the air as it passed over the city.

  “They’re keeping a close eye on the area,” Blake said, his tone thoughtful. “Probably mapping out hotspots and assessing the situation on the ground.”

  Saya nodded, her gaze following the helicopter until it disappeared over the horizon. “It’s a good sign. It means the JSDF hasn’t given up on us yet. But it also means things are worse than we thought if they’re dedicating this much effort to surveillance.”

  “Better them than nothing,” Takashi muttered from the back, his voice low. “At least someone’s still out there trying to make a difference.”

  Arrival at the Rendezvous

  May 5, 20XX – 8:15 AM

  City Limits – Rendezvous Point

  The Humvee came to a halt near a cluster of abandoned buildings, the sound of its engine echoing eerily in the stillness. A group of Souichiro’s men emerged from the shadows, their weapons at the ready.

  Blake stepped out of the vehicle, his hand resting on the butt of his holstered sidearm. The lead man, a grizzled veteran with a scar running down his left cheek, approached him.

  “You’re the team Mr. Takagi sent?” the man asked, his tone gruff but not unfriendly. However, he had a look of doubt in his face as he didn’t expect the team to be made of such young people.

  “That’s us,” Blake replied, his gaze steady. “Name’s Blake. We’re here to assist with the operation.” The man although was doubtful just chose to go with it as he didn’t have any other options.

  The man nodded, his eyes scanning the group. “Name’s Kenji. I’m in charge of this unit. We’ll provide support, but you’re leading the charge. Clear the complex, secure the supplies, and signal us when it’s safe to move in. Understood?”

  Blake nodded, his expression resolute. “Understood.”

  Tanaka gestured to his men, who began unloading equipment from a nearby truck. “We’ll set up a perimeter and cover your exit. Make it quick—we don’t want to be here longer than necessary.”

  As the group prepared to move out, Blake gathered them for one final briefing. “Alright, you heard the man. We’re going in first. Stay close, watch each other’s backs, and keep it quiet until we absolutely have to make noise. Got it?”

  The team nodded, their expressions a mix of determination and apprehension.

  Saya adjusted her gear, her eyes flicking to Blake. “Let’s get this over with.”

  Kohta grinned, gripping his rifle tightly. “Time to show them what we’re made of.”

  With their weapons at the ready, the group set off toward the abandoned shopping complex, the weight of the mission pressing heavily on their shoulders.

  The city awaited, its darkened streets and crumbling buildings promising danger at every turn.

  May 5, 20XX – 8:30 AM

  Abandoned Shopping Complex

  The group approached the sprawling shopping complex cautiously, its fa?ade looming like a monolith of shattered glass and faded advertisements. The building was partially gutted from fires that had ravaged parts of the city during the initial outbreak, and its eerie silence was punctuated only by the occasional creak of metal and the distant groans of the undead.

  Blake held up a hand, signaling the group to stop. “Alright, listen up. We’ll stick to a standard clearing formation. Kohta, you’re on overwatch. Find a vantage point and cover us with your rifle. Make every shot count.”

  Kohta nodded, his expression serious as he adjusted his glasses. “Got it. I’ll head for that rooftop over there.” He pointed to a small maintenance structure on the second floor, accessible via a fire escape.

  “Rei, you’re taking point with me,” Blake continued, his gaze shifting to the girl gripping her spear tightly. “Your weapon’s reach gives us an advantage in tight spaces. Stay alert.”

  Rei nodded, determination flickering in her eyes.

  “Takashi, you’re our rear guard,” Blake added. “Make sure nothing sneaks up on us. Watch the flanks, too.”

  Takashi gave a curt nod, gripping his shotgun firmly. “You can count on me.”

  Blake’s gaze turned to Saya. “You’re staying in the middle. Keep the map handy, and call out any potential escape routes. Stay behind me and Rei but ahead of Takashi. Your job is coordination and navigation.”

  Saya frowned but didn’t argue. She adjusted the strap of her satchel, her expression a mix of nerves and determination.

  Finally, Blake turned to Saeko, who stood silently beside him, her katana resting against her shoulder. “Saeko, you’re our floater. Move where you’re needed—front, middle, or back. If things get messy, you’ll be the one to stabilize the situation.”

  Saeko gave a slight bow, a faint smile playing on her lips. “Understood.”

  “Alright,” Blake said, his voice firm. “Keep it quiet unless it’s absolutely necessary. If we do this right, we’ll be in and out before they even know we’re here.”

  The group made their way to the shattered glass doors of the complex, stepping carefully over broken shards that glittered like jagged stars. The inside was dark, with only faint beams of sunlight filtering through cracks in the ceiling and gaps in the boarded-up windows.

  Kohta broke off from the group, heading toward the fire escape he had identified earlier. He climbed swiftly, his rifle slung across his back. Once he reached the rooftop, he crouched low, scanning the surrounding area with his scope. “I’ve got eyes on you guys,” he whispered into his radio. “All clear for now.”

  Blake gave a subtle nod, acknowledging the message. “Alright, move in. Rei, stay close.”

  The group advanced, their footsteps eerily muffled by the thick layer of dust and debris that covered the floor. Broken mannequins and overturned display cases littered the space, remnants of the chaos that had unfolded here.

  As they approached a narrow corridor leading deeper into the complex, Saya paused, her eyes narrowing at a faint sound. “Wait,” she whispered, holding up a hand. “Do you hear that?”

  The group froze, straining their ears. Faint, guttural noises echoed from somewhere ahead—a low, wet growl that sent a chill down their spines.

  “They’re close,” Saeko murmured, her grip tightening on her katana.

  Blake gestured for everyone to take their positions. “Rei, with me. Saeko, cover the middle. Takashi, hold the rear.”

  They crept forward, the tension mounting with each step. The growling grew louder, accompanied by the sound of shuffling feet. As they rounded a corner, they came face to face with a small group of zombies—six in total, their rotting faces twisted in grotesque snarls.

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  “Stay quiet,” Blake hissed. He raised his shotgun, taking aim at the nearest zombie. Rei readied her spear beside him, her breath steady but shallow.

  The zombie closest to them let out a guttural moan, its milky eyes locking onto the group. Before it could alert the others, Blake fired, the shotgun blast muffled by the suppressor attached to the barrel. The zombie’s head snapped back, its body crumpling to the ground.

  Rei lunged forward, her spear piercing another zombie through the eye socket. She twisted the weapon, pulling it free with a sickening squelch.

  Saeko moved in seamlessly, her katana slicing through the air with deadly precision. She decapitated one zombie in a single fluid motion, her movements graceful yet lethal.

  Takashi held his position at the rear, his shotgun trained on the corridor behind them. He glanced over his shoulder frequently, ensuring they weren’t being flanked.

  Saya stayed close to the wall, her hands gripping the map tightly. She scanned their surroundings, her eyes darting between the group and the possible escape routes.

  Kohta’s voice crackled through the radio. “Three more coming in from the left! Two o’clock!”

  Blake turned sharply, his shotgun already aimed in the direction Kohta had indicated. He fired twice, dropping two of the incoming zombies. The third staggered forward, only to be met by Saeko’s katana, which sliced cleanly through its neck.

  The group stood in silence for a moment, their breaths heavy but controlled. Blake scanned the area, ensuring there were no more threats. “Everyone alright?”

  A chorus of quiet affirmations followed, though Saya’s hands trembled slightly as she folded the map back into her satchel.

  They pressed on, moving deeper into the complex. The air grew heavier, the stench of decay almost overpowering. The faint sounds of moans and shuffling feet echoed through the empty halls, keeping them on edge.

  Blake’s mind raced as he led the group, his thoughts darting between their current situation and the potential challenges ahead. ‘This place is a maze. If we’re not careful, we’ll get cornered.’

  Rei’s grip on her spear tightened as she glanced around nervously. ‘Dad… I hope you’re safe. Just hold on a little longer.’

  Saya’s thoughts churned as she followed closely behind Blake. ‘I need to prove myself. I can’t let them see me as a liability.’

  Saeko remained calm, her katana at the ready. She moved with quiet confidence, her thoughts focused on the task at hand. ‘As long as we stay together, we can handle this.’

  Kohta’s voice came through the radio again. “There’s a larger group further ahead, about a dozen or so. Looks like they’re blocking the main corridor. You’ll need to clear them to reach the supplies.”

  Blake nodded, his jaw tightening. “Understood. Everyone, get ready. This is going to get messy.”

  As they approached the next corridor, the growls and moans grew louder, reverberating through the walls. The group tightened their formation, their weapons at the ready. The next encounter would test their resolve—and their ability to work as a team.

  May 5, 20XX – 8:50 AM

  Abandoned Shopping Complex

  The faint but constant moans ahead created an oppressive atmosphere as the group crept through the dimly lit corridor. Dust floated in the faint beams of sunlight streaming through cracks in the ceiling, casting eerie patterns on the walls. Every step felt heavier as the growls grew louder, closer, more menacing.

  Blake raised a fist, signaling the group to halt. They pressed against the walls, trying to make as little noise as possible. He crouched slightly, his hand gripping his Ithaca shotgun firmly. His thoughts drifted briefly as he mentally prepared for the upcoming confrontation.

  ‘The suppressors… thank God we found those back at the estate,’ he mused, glancing down at the muted barrel of his shotgun. He recalled Kohta geeking out in the armory when they discovered a stash of suppressors for multiple calibers, including a few compatible with their shotguns. The discovery had been pure luck, but in a world gone mad, luck was a rare commodity—and one they couldn’t afford to squander.

  “Kohta,” Blake whispered into the radio. “You still got eyes on the corridor ahead?”

  “Yeah,” Kohta replied, his voice a low murmur. “It’s packed. At least fifteen or sixteen zombies clustered together. They’re moving slowly, but they’re all in one place. If we’re not careful, they could overwhelm us.”

  Blake exhaled through his nose, nodding slightly. “Copy that. Stay in position and be ready to pick off any stragglers that come our way.”

  “Got it,” Kohta replied.

  Blake turned to the group, his gaze sweeping over each of them. “Alright, here’s the plan. This corridor is tight, and those things are bunched up ahead. We’ll need to keep our formation disciplined if we want to get through this without casualties.”

  Rei tightened her grip on her spear, her knuckles white. “What’s the play?”

  “We’ll clear them out systematically,” Blake explained. “I’ll take the lead and draw their attention. Rei, you stay close and pick off any that get too close for comfort. Saeko, you’ll float between us and Saya. Cover the sides and keep an eye on any potential flanking threats.”

  Saeko nodded, her expression calm and resolute. “Understood.”

  “Saya,” Blake continued, his tone softer. “You stay behind me and Rei. If you see an opening to give directions or spot something we missed, let us know. But stay back. I don’t want you in harm’s way.”

  Saya frowned slightly but nodded. “Fine. Just… don’t do anything stupid, alright?”

  Blake smirked faintly. “No promises.”

  His gaze shifted to Takashi. “You’re our rear guard, as usual. Watch our backs and call out if anything comes up behind us.”

  Takashi gave a curt nod. “You can count on me.”

  Blake took a deep breath, glancing at each of them again. “Remember, we don’t have the ammo to waste on a prolonged fight. Be efficient. Be precise. If things go south, we fall back to the last junction and regroup.”

  As they prepared to move out, the tension in the air was palpable. Blake’s mind raced with thoughts, not just of the mission but of the people around him.

  ‘This team… we’ve come so far, but we’re still learning how to move as one,’ he thought, his eyes flicking to Rei as she adjusted her grip on her spear. ‘She’s strong, but I can tell she’s thinking about her father. That focus could be her greatest strength—or her biggest weakness.’

  His gaze shifted to Saya, who was fiddling nervously with the straps of her satchel. ‘She’s brilliant, no doubt about that. But she’s not used to this kind of pressure. I just hope she can hold it together when it matters most.’

  Finally, he glanced at Saeko, who stood silently, her katana gleaming faintly in the dim light. Her calm presence was reassuring, but Blake couldn’t ignore the slight flicker of something deeper in her eyes—something darker. ‘She thrives in this chaos. It’s her element. But that… enjoyment she gets—it’s a double-edged sword.’

  Kohta’s voice crackled through the radio again. “They’re starting to shift around. Looks like they’re reacting to something. Might be picking up on your scent or the vibrations from your steps.”

  Blake clenched his jaw, gripping his shotgun tighter. “Understood. We’ll move in on my count. Everyone ready?”

  A series of quiet affirmations followed.

  Blake exhaled slowly, his breath steadying. “Alright. Three… two… one… move.”

  The group advanced cautiously, their footsteps muffled against the dusty floor. As they rounded the final corner, the horde came into full view—fifteen undead, their rotting bodies swaying as they shuffled aimlessly in the narrow corridor.

  Blake raised his shotgun, his finger steady on the trigger. He fired the first shot, although the suppressed blast did make some sound, it was like a whisper compared to the thunderous roar it would have been without the suppressor. The lead zombie’s head exploded in a spray of gore, its body collapsing to the ground.

  Rei lunged forward, her spear impaling the next zombie through the chest. She twisted the weapon sharply, forcing the creature to collapse as she yanked the spear free.

  Saeko moved with fluid grace, her katana slicing cleanly through the neck of one zombie before spinning to decapitate another. Her movements were almost a dance, precise and lethal.

  “Watch the sides!” Saya called out, her voice steady despite the fear in her eyes. She pointed to a small side corridor where a lone zombie had appeared, shambling toward them.

  Takashi turned sharply, his shotgun raised. He fired, the suppressed shot echoing in the corridor as the zombie crumpled to the ground. “Got it!”

  Blake fired again, his shotgun taking down another zombie. He stepped back slightly, keeping his movements controlled. “Keep the formation tight! Don’t let them surround us!”

  Kohta’s voice crackled through the radio. “Three more incoming from the left! I’ve got a shot on one—taking it now.”

  A sharp crack echoed from above as Kohta’s rifle fired, the bullet punching cleanly through a zombie’s skull.

  Rei took a deep breath, her spear thrusting forward to take down another zombie. Her movements were more confident now, her resolve firm.

  The group moved as one, their coordination growing stronger with each encounter. Blake fired another shot, his gaze flicking to Saeko as she dispatched two more zombies with a single, sweeping strike.

  “Two left!” Blake called out.

  Takashi stepped forward, his shotgun taking down one of the remaining zombies. The final creature lunged toward Saya, its rotting hands reaching out.

  Saya stumbled back, her eyes wide with fear. Before she could react, Saeko was there, her katana slicing through the zombie’s neck with practiced ease.

  The creature fell, its body twitching once before going still.

  The group stood in the now-silent corridor, their breaths heavy but controlled. Blake scanned the area, his shotgun at the ready. “Everyone alright?”

  A series of quiet affirmations followed, though Saya’s hands trembled slightly as she clutched her satchel.

  “Good work,” Blake said, his voice steady. He turned to Kohta, speaking into the radio. “Overwatch, status report?”

  “All clear for now,” Kohta replied. “No more movement in your immediate area. You’re good to proceed.”

  Blake nodded, his gaze shifting to the group. “Let’s move. Stay sharp. This was just the beginning.”

  The group pressed on, the weight of the encounter lingering in the air. Each step brought them closer to their objective—and to the unknown dangers that awaited them in the depths of the complex.

  May 5, 20XX – 9:15 AM

  Abandoned Shopping Complex

  The group moved cautiously into the atrium of the shopping complex, their breaths shallow and their weapons ready. Shafts of light spilled through shattered skylights, illuminating the chaos below. Overturned kiosks and abandoned merchandise littered the area, creating a scene of desolation that was equal parts eerie and dangerous.

  Blake raised a fist, signaling the group to halt. He crouched, scanning the open space ahead. “We’re exposed here,” he muttered, his voice low. “Let’s move carefully and stick together. Saeko, take the left flank. Takashi, you’re rear guard. Saya, stay between me and Rei. Kohta, stay on comms and keep us updated.”

  The group spread out slightly, moving in practiced formation. Saeko, her katana drawn, moved silently along the left side, her sharp eyes darting toward every shadow. “I don’t like this,” she murmured, her voice barely audible. “Too many blind spots.”

  Kohta’s voice crackled through the radio from his overwatch position. “You’re right. I see movement on the upper levels. Could be a few zombies, maybe five or six.”

  Takashi glanced upward, gripping his shotgun tightly. “We can’t take any chances. If they jump down, they’ll have the advantage.”

  Blake nodded, his shotgun held at the ready. “Eyes up. Saya, stay close.”

  Saya frowned but obeyed, clutching her satchel tightly. “I’m not a child, you know,” she whispered, though there was a nervous edge to her voice.

  Rei, standing beside Saya, offered her a reassuring smile. “We know, Saya. But we’ve got your back. Just focus on staying safe.”

  The group reached a makeshift barricade in the center of the atrium, constructed from overturned benches and tables. A crude sign written in marker was propped against it: HELP US.

  Saeko knelt beside the barricade, her fingers brushing the bloodstains smeared across its surface. “This wasn’t here long,” she said. “The blood is still fresh.”

  Takashi crouched next to her, his face grim. “Looks like they tried to hold the line here. But where are the bodies?”

  Blake scanned the area, his brow furrowed. “Something’s not right. Stay sharp.”

  Saya stepped closer, her expression troubled. “Why would they come here? A shopping complex like this is a death trap. Were they that desperate?”

  Rei placed a hand on her shoulder. “Desperation makes people do things they wouldn’t normally do. Let’s hope they’re still alive.”

  A faint groan echoed through the air, drawing everyone’s attention. The sound grew louder, followed by the shuffling of footsteps.

  “They’re coming,” Kohta warned over the radio. “Ten o’clock. Main corridor. At least fifteen of them.”

  Blake turned, raising his shotgun. “Here we go. Saeko, you’re up front with me. Takashi, cover our backs. Saya, Rei, stay in the middle. Kohta, keep eyes on our flanks.”

  The zombies emerged from the corridor, their decayed forms swaying as they stumbled forward. Saeko stepped forward, her katana gleaming as she swung in a wide arc, cleaving through the first two with practiced precision.

  Rei moved to Saya’s side, her spear held at the ready. “Stay behind me,” she said firmly.

  Takashi turned, his shotgun blasting as he took down two zombies approaching from behind. “We’ve got more on the rear!” he shouted.

  Blake fired his shotgun, the suppressed shots taking down two zombies in quick succession. “Rei, keep Saya safe. Takashi, don’t let them close the gap!”

  Saya clenched her fists, frustration evident on her face as she clung to her satchel. ‘I hate this,’ she thought. ‘I don’t want to just stand here while everyone else is fighting.’

  “Stay focused,” Rei urged, stabbing a zombie in the chest and kicking it off her spear. “We need to keep moving!”

  Kohta’s voice crackled through the comms. “Blake, you’ve got more incoming from the upper levels. Four of them—fast movers!”

  Saeko glanced up, her eyes narrowing. “Takashi, switch with me. Cover Blake’s left. I’ll deal with the upper levels.”

  Takashi nodded, moving into position as Saeko dashed to the escalator. She leapt onto the railing, using it as a vantage point to strike down at the approaching zombies. Her movements were fluid and deadly, each swing of her blade cutting down the undead with precision.

  Blake fired another shot, taking down two zombies in quick succession. His thoughts briefly flickered to the shotgun suppressors they’d found back at the Takagi Estate. ‘Lucky break,’ he thought, pumping the shotgun for another round. ‘We’d be drawing every zombie in a mile without these.’

  The group pressed forward, their movements coordinated and efficient. Blake led the charge, Saeko and Takashi flanking him as they carved a path through the horde.

  Rei stayed close to Saya, her spear darting out to strike down any zombie that came too close. “You’re doing great, Saya,” she said, her voice steady despite the chaos.

  Saya nodded, her grip tightening on the Luger at her side. “I just wish I could do more.”

  “You’re helping by staying safe,” Rei reassured her. “That’s what matters.”

  Kohta’s voice came through the radio again. “You’re clear for now, but there’s more movement deeper in. Be careful.”

  Blake turned to the group, his expression resolute. “We’re not out of the woods yet. Let’s regroup and keep moving.”

  May 5, 20XX – 9:45 AM

  Abandoned Shopping Complex – Deeper Levels

  The group pressed forward, leaving the battered atrium behind. The corridors ahead narrowed, with racks of toppled merchandise blocking much of the pathway. Shadows danced ominously across the walls as the group’s flashlight beams flickered, their steps echoing in the eerie silence.

  Blake moved cautiously, leading the group with his Ithaca 37 shotgun raised. Behind him, Saeko maintained her spot on the left flank, her katana resting lightly in her hands, ready to strike. Takashi brought up the rear, his shotgun slung across his chest as he scanned their six for any sign of movement.

  Rei stayed close to Saya in the middle, her spear held upright and her eyes darting between the corners. Saya herself was gripping the Luger tightly, her knuckles white as she adjusted her stance with each step.

  “Kohta, do you still have eyes on us?” Blake whispered into the radio clipped to his shoulder.

  The radio crackled before Kohta’s voice came through, faint and static-filled. “Barely. You’ve gone too deep—those walls must be interfering. I’ve got no clear shot from here.”

  Blake frowned, glancing up at the darkened skylight above. “Understood. Stay on the comms and keep watch. We’ll handle it from here.”

  Saya’s expression tightened as she folded up the map in her hands. “Without Kohta and with these narrow corridors, this place is turning into a maze. I can’t guarantee my map is going to help us much anymore. We need to rely on our instincts.”

  Takashi’s voice was grim but steady. “Instincts are all we’ve got now. We stick together, no matter what.”

  The group approached an area where the corridor widened into a large showroom. The racks of clothes and toppled mannequins created an unnerving labyrinth of shadows.

  “Stay sharp,” Blake whispered, his eyes scanning every corner.

  Saeko moved ahead slightly, her katana held aloft as she weaved through the mannequins. “This place feels wrong,” she murmured, her gaze darting around.

  Suddenly, a loud groan echoed from behind a stack of display cases. Blake barely had time to raise his shotgun when three zombies burst out, stumbling toward them with outstretched arms.

  “Contact!” Blake shouted, firing his shotgun. The first zombie’s chest exploded in a spray of gore, but the remaining two kept coming.

  Saeko dashed forward with a fluid motion, her katana slicing through the air. The blade cleaved cleanly through the neck of the first zombie before she pivoted to strike down the second with a powerful overhead slash.

  “Clear!” Saeko called, her breathing steady as she lowered her blade.

  The group pressed further into the showroom, their nerves taut. Blake wiped the sweat from his brow, his thoughts racing. ‘We’ve already burned through a lot of ammo,’ he thought, pumping his shotgun. ‘If this keeps up, we’ll be fighting with fists and knives before long.’

  Rei and Takashi fell into step behind him, their movements cautious but coordinated. Rei’s spear shot out to impale a zombie that staggered from behind a shelf. She twisted the weapon, wrenching it free before the body crumpled to the ground.

  “Watch the flanks!” Rei warned, her voice sharp.

  Takashi turned just in time to see a zombie lurching toward him. He fired his shotgun, the blast ripping through its torso and sending it sprawling backward. “Thanks for the heads-up!” he said breathlessly.

  As they moved further in, Saya’s eyes darted between the dimly lit pathways. She adjusted her grip on the Luger, the weight of the weapon both unfamiliar and comforting. “Hold on,” she said, her voice calm but firm. “There’s another way through here. I remember seeing it on the map earlier.”

  Blake paused, turning to her with a nod. “Alright, lead the way.”

  Saya stepped forward, her movements hesitant but purposeful. She crouched low to examine a toppled rack, her fingers brushing against the bloodstained floor. “It’s tight, but we can squeeze through here. It’ll get us around that blocked corridor up ahead.”

  “Good call,” Takashi said, motioning for the group to follow.

  The group crawled through the narrow passage Saya had identified, emerging into another showroom filled with scattered debris. As they regrouped, Blake scanned the area, his shotgun at the ready.

  “We’re clear for now,” he said, his voice low.

  But as he stepped forward, a sudden snarl erupted from the shadows. A zombie lunged out from behind a pillar, its decayed hands reaching for Blake.

  “Blake, look out!” Saya shouted, raising the Luger instinctively.

  Her hands shook as she lined up the shot, her breath catching in her throat. She pulled the trigger, the gun’s report muffled by the suppressor. The bullet struck the zombie in the forehead, sending it crumpling to the ground just inches from Blake.

  Blake turned, his eyes wide with surprise. “Saya…”

  She lowered the Luger, her hands trembling. “I… I got it,” she whispered, her voice shaky but resolute.

  Rei placed a hand on her shoulder, offering a reassuring squeeze. “You did great, Saya. That was quick thinking.”

  Blake gave her a nod, his expression filled with gratitude. “You saved my ass. Thanks.”

  Saya’s cheeks flushed, and she looked away, trying to mask her embarrassment. “Don’t mention it. Just… stay focused.”

  The group took a moment to catch their breath, their eyes scanning the darkened corners of the room.

  “This isn’t getting any easier,” Takashi muttered, reloading his shotgun.

  Blake glanced at Saya, who was still gripping the Luger tightly. “You okay?” he asked softly.

  She nodded, her expression serious. “Yeah. Just… let’s keep moving.”

  Saeko stepped forward, her katana gleaming in the dim light. “We need to stay together. The deeper we go, the more dangerous it gets.”

  Blake looked around, his jaw tightening. “Agreed. Let’s stick to the plan and keep moving. But stay sharp—this place isn’t done with us yet.”

  May 5, 20XX – 9:45 AM

  Abandoned Shopping Complex – Ground Floor, East Wing

  Blake signaled for the team to hold position as they reached the edge of a darkened corridor. The air was heavy with the stench of decay, and faint shuffling noises echoed somewhere in the distance. Takashi crouched beside him, gripping his shotgun tightly, while Saeko silently scanned the area ahead with her katana drawn. Saya, clutching the Luger, took a quick glance at the map in her hand, her flashlight casting faint beams over the yellowed paper.

  “This section should lead us toward the food court,” Saya whispered, pointing to a section of the map. “If I’m right, the storage areas should be nearby. We’ll have to clear each storefront on the way to make sure nothing sneaks up on us.”

  Kohta’s voice crackled faintly through their radios. “I’ve still got a clear view of the main entrance. Nothing big is heading your way from the outside, but once you’re deeper in, you’re on your own.”

  “Understood,” Blake replied into the radio. “Stay sharp. We’ll radio back once we’ve secured the area.”

  With a nod, Blake motioned for Takashi and Saeko to take point, while he and Saya followed closely behind. They moved in a tight formation, sweeping the dimly lit corridor one step at a time. Broken glass crunched underfoot, and the occasional overturned display rack made progress slow.

  As the group approached the food court, a faint groan echoed from somewhere behind a row of shuttered stalls. Takashi held up a hand, signaling them to stop. He raised his shotgun, his eyes narrowing as he tried to pinpoint the source of the sound.

  Blake gestured for Saya to stay close, his Ithaca shotgun at the ready. “I’ll flank left with Saeko. Takashi, cover the center. Saya, watch our backs.”

  Saeko nodded, her katana gleaming faintly in the dim light as she silently moved alongside Blake. The groaning grew louder, followed by the faint rustle of movement. As they rounded a corner, they spotted three zombies feasting on a long-dead body sprawled near a tipped-over table.

  Saeko wasted no time, darting forward with precise footwork. Her blade flashed once, then twice, cleaving through the necks of two zombies with surgical precision. The third turned toward her, blood dripping from its gaping maw, but before it could lunge, Blake stepped in and fired a suppressed round into its chest. The zombie collapsed in a heap, twitching before finally going still.

  “Clear,” Saeko whispered, wiping the blood from her blade with a practiced motion.

  Saya stepped forward, her flashlight illuminating the grisly scene. She fought back a wave of nausea as she carefully scanned the area. “That noise probably attracted more of them. We should move quickly.”

  Takashi pointed to a pair of double doors at the back of the food court. “That looks like storage. If we’re lucky, we’ll find the supplies there.”

  Blake nodded, taking the lead. “Stay sharp. We’re not out of the woods yet.”

  The group cautiously entered the storage area, the musty scent of rotting food and mildew assaulting their senses. Rows of shelves stretched into the darkness, many of them toppled or stripped bare. Blake scanned the room with his flashlight, the beam cutting through the gloom.

  “Spread out,” he said quietly. “Look for anything useful—canned goods, bottled water, medical supplies. Saya, mark the location on the map so we can find our way back here later.”

  As the group fanned out, Blake kept his shotgun raised, his senses on high alert. He found a shelf stacked with canned goods, many of them dented but still intact. “Found something,” he called softly.

  “Me too,” Takashi said, lifting a box of medical supplies from the corner. “Bandages, antiseptics… not much, but it’s better than nothing.”

  Saya scribbled a mark on the map, her flashlight resting on her shoulder. “That’s one location down. Let’s check the rest of this area and see if we can find more.”

  As they moved through the storage rooms, the tension in the air grew heavier. The faint groans of zombies outside served as a constant reminder of the danger lurking just beyond the walls.

  After securing the last of the supplies, the group retraced their steps back toward the food court. As they exited the storage room, a sudden voice rang out from the darkness.

  “Stop right there!”

  Blake froze, his shotgun raised, as a flashlight beam blinded him momentarily. The rest of the group tensed, weapons at the ready, as two figures stepped into view. One of them, a wiry man clutching a crowbar, glared at them suspiciously. The other, a young woman holding a kitchen knife, looked equally wary.

  “Who are you?” the man demanded. “What are you doing here?”

  Blake lowered his shotgun slightly, keeping his movements deliberate and non-threatening. “We’re scavengers, just like you. Looking for supplies to survive.”

  “Stay back!” the woman warned, her grip on the knife tightening.

  Saya stepped forward, her voice calm but firm. “We don’t want any trouble. We’re just trying to make it out of here alive, same as you.”

  The man narrowed his eyes, glancing between the group and the supplies they were carrying. “Looks like you’ve got more than enough for yourselves. Maybe you should share some of that.”

  Blake’s grip on his shotgun tightened, but he kept his tone measured. “We’re not here to take anything from anyone. If you need help, we can talk, but threatening us isn’t going to get you anywhere.”

  The tension hung heavy in the air, the seconds stretching into what felt like an eternity. Finally, the man lowered his crowbar, though his posture remained guarded.

  “Alright,” he said reluctantly. “We’re just trying to survive. Our group’s holed up on the second floor, but we’ve got injured people and no way to defend ourselves if things go south.”

  Saya glanced at Blake, her expression thoughtful. “Maybe we can help them,” she suggested. “If they’re willing to cooperate.”

  Blake nodded slowly, his eyes never leaving the man. “Lead the way. But if this is a trap, you won’t get a second chance.”

  The man nodded, his grip on the crowbar loosening slightly. “Fair enough. Follow me.”

  As they followed the survivors toward the second floor, Blake couldn’t shake the feeling that things were about to get a lot more complicated.

  May 5, 20XX – 10:15 AM

  Abandoned Shopping Complex – Second Floor

  The group entered the survivors’ makeshift camp cautiously, their footsteps soft but deliberate. Blake scanned the area as his eyes fell on the injured man propped against the wall. The camp was set up in what looked like an old clothing store—racks pushed aside, makeshift barricades at the windows, and tattered blankets strewn on the floor. A handful of survivors huddled together, their eyes filled with fear and exhaustion.

  The wiry man leading them introduced himself as Toru Igarashi, and the young woman clutching the knife was Mayumi Igarashi, his younger sister. The injured man was Kazuo Takeda, who let out a pained groan when he tried to adjust his leg. Two other survivors introduced themselves as Eiko Watanabe, a middle-aged woman with glasses, and Naoto Sugimoto, a tall, quiet man who appeared to be in his late twenties.

  Toru gestured to the group huddled on the floor. “This is all that’s left of us. We had more people when this started, but… you can guess what happened.”

  Blake nodded grimly. “We’ve seen it ourselves.”

  Saya crossed her arms, her sharp eyes scanning the survivors. “This place isn’t defensible. You need to leave before those barricades give out.”

  Mayumi bristled at Saya’s blunt tone. “And go where? The streets are crawling with those things. We can’t exactly waltz out of here.”

  “Which is why you’re coming with us,” Takashi interjected, stepping forward. “We have vehicles parked outside, and we’re heading back to a safe place—a fortified estate outside the city. You’ll be safer there than here.”

  The survivors exchanged nervous glances. Naoto was the first to speak. “How do we know we can trust you?”

  “You don’t,” Saeko said calmly, resting her hand on the hilt of her katana. “But staying here will only end one way.”

  Eiko adjusted her glasses, her expression wary. “And what do you get out of this? Why would you help us?”

  Blake stepped forward, his voice steady. “Because it’s the right thing to do. We’ve all lost people in this, and if we can save someone else, we will. But this isn’t a free ride. If you come with us, you pull your weight.”

  Mayumi hesitated, her grip tightening on her knife. “And if we say no?”

  Saya let out an exasperated sigh. “Then you’re idiots. We’re offering you a chance to survive, and you’re questioning it?”

  “Saya,” Blake said softly, placing a hand on her shoulder. She huffed but fell silent.

  Toru looked at Kazuo, who nodded weakly. “Alright,” Toru said. “We’ll come with you. But Kazuo can’t walk. We’ll need to carry him.”

  Carrying Kazuo slowed their pace significantly as they made their way through the mall. Toru and Naoto took turns supporting him, while Mayumi stayed close to her brother, her knife at the ready. Eiko walked alongside Saya, who was consulting the map to find the fastest route to the main entrance.

  Blake walked at the front with Takashi and Saeko, keeping their weapons raised as they cleared the path. Saya occasionally glanced over her shoulder to ensure the survivors were keeping up.

  “We’ll need backup to retrieve the supplies,” Blake said quietly, turning to Saya. “Can you call your father’s men and have them meet us at the atrium? We’ll mark the locations of the food and medical supplies on the map for them.”

  Saya nodded, pulling out the radio her father had given her. She pressed the button and spoke into the receiver. “This is Saya Takagi. We’ve located supplies on the second floor of the mall. Requesting reinforcements to retrieve them. We’ll rendezvous at the atrium.”

  A moment later, a crackling voice replied. “Understood, Miss Takagi. We’re dispatching a team now. ETA ten minutes.”

  Saya turned to the group, her expression firm. “Alright. We just need to make it to the atrium and hold our position until they arrive.”

  Blake nodded and turned to Takashi. “Let Kohta know we’re bringing survivors. He needs to be careful where he’s shooting.”

  Takashi pulled out his own radio and relayed the message. Kohta’s voice crackled back. “Got it. I’ll keep an eye on the atrium and make sure nothing gets too close.”

  The group reached the atrium to find it partially barricaded, with a few scattered zombies shuffling aimlessly. Blake and Saeko took point, dispatching the closest ones with precise blows. Takashi followed closely, his shotgun ready, while Saya stayed near the back with Mayumi and Eiko, guarding the survivors.

  Blake motioned for the group to stop as he scanned the area. “Clear the perimeter first,” he said.

  Saeko nodded, moving gracefully through the shadows as her katana flashed in the dim light. Blake moved methodically, his shotgun firing suppressed blasts as he covered her flank. Takashi and Mayumi worked together to take down stragglers, the younger woman proving surprisingly adept with her knife.

  As they regrouped near the center of the atrium, Saya marked the locations of the supplies on her map. “The food is in a storage room on the east wing, and the medical supplies are in a pharmacy on the north side,” she explained.

  Blake nodded. “We’ll hold here until your father’s men arrive. Once we hand off the map and the survivors, we’ll head back to the vehicles.”

  The sound of boots on tile echoed through the atrium as Souichiro’s men arrived, their rifles at the ready. The team was led by Shun Matsuda, a loyal retainer of the Takagi Estate with a scar running down his cheek.

  “Miss Takagi,” Matsuda greeted her with a nod. “We’re here to retrieve the supplies.”

  Saya handed him the map, her tone brisk. “The locations are marked. Make sure you secure the area before moving anything.”

  Matsuda glanced at the survivors huddled nearby. “Are they with you?”

  “They are now,” Blake said firmly. “We’ll take them back to the estate. Can you spare a truck for them?”

  Matsuda nodded. “We’ve got a cargo truck outside. They can ride with the supplies.”

  As the supplies were loaded and the survivors were ushered into the truck, Blake and his team moved toward the exit. They found Kohta waiting for them on the roof of the parking garage, his rifle slung over his shoulder.

  “About time,” Kohta said, his tone half-joking. “I was starting to think you forgot about me.”

  Blake smirked. “Never. You good?”

  “Better now,” Kohta replied, glancing at the truck. “Looks like you picked up a few strays.”

  “Yeah,” Takashi said, his tone light. “Figured we could use the company.”

  As the group climbed into the Humvee, Blake glanced back at the mall. The mission hadn’t gone perfectly, but they had achieved their goals. With the supplies secured and the survivors rescued, they were one step closer to making it through this nightmare.

  Blake turned to Saya as the Humvee roared to life. “You did good back there. Your father would be proud.”

  Saya gave him a small, genuine smile. “Thanks, Blake. But this is just the beginning.”

  With that, the convoy rolled out, the weight of their mission heavy on their shoulders but tempered by the glimmers of hope they carried with them.

  With the convoy rolling out of the parking garage and into the city streets, the group found a momentary sense of relief amidst the chaos. The Humvee followed closely behind the cargo truck carrying the survivors and supplies, the sound of the engines echoing through the eerily silent city.

  Blake leaned back in the passenger seat, his shotgun resting across his lap. His eyes scanned the surroundings, always alert for any movement in the shadows. The events of the day played through his mind, the tension in his shoulders refusing to ease despite their accomplishments.

  Beside him, Saya sat quietly, her gaze fixed on the road ahead. The soft hum of the engine filled the space between them, but there was an unspoken understanding in the silence—a shared acknowledgment of what they had achieved and the challenges yet to come.

  In the back, Saeko cleaned the blade of her katana, her movements deliberate and precise. Kohta fiddled with his rifle, double-checking every part with a meticulousness that spoke of both caution and comfort in routine. Takashi and Rei sat side by side, exchanging quiet words as they reflected on the day.

  The Takagi Estate was still a distance away, and the group knew that the road ahead would only grow more treacherous. But for now, they had succeeded. They had saved lives, secured supplies, and taken another step forward in their fight for survival.

  As the convoy turned a corner, the last rays of sunlight dipped below the horizon, casting the city in a deep, foreboding shadow. But within the Humvee, there was a flicker of hope—a determination to keep pushing forward, no matter what lay ahead.

  End of Chapter 35