Eyes shut

Chapter 1

"Finally, a secure refuge," he exclaimed.

Glancing at the counter where Aiden stood, he remarked, "Finally, I found someone who survived."

This caught Aiden off guard. Understanding immediately that the reference was to him, he rose with a smile and responded, "It's quite a sight to encounter someone after all this carnage. I started to believe there was no one left."

The other man, with a surprised expression, extended his hand towards Aiden. Aiden, aware from experience that a warm smile was necessary when seeking something, obliged.

"I'm Aiden Chax. Apologies if I startled you; I was just thrilled to see another survivor."

"Oh, yes... Apologies," he said, offering a handshake.

"I'm Kwon Dong Sik; you can call me Dong."

"Pleasure to meet you, Dong. I had hoped for a better circumstance, but..."

"I understand. If you don't mind, may I join you?"

Without hesitation, Aiden replied, "I wouldn't mind. In fact, it would be the opposite. Having company is better than being alone, I think."

"In that case, I'll gather what I need and be on my way."

After a few minutes, Dong finished packing his belongings. Astonished by the amount of food he stuffed into his bag, Aiden remarked, "Is that really all you need?"

With a puzzled expression, Dong responded, "Yes, is there a problem?"

"No, actually, I forgot to mention, but can you tell me where you got the infrared glasses?"

"Oh, those things. Well, I should thank my hobby for keeping me alive until now."

"Hobby?" Aiden inquired with curiosity.

"Yes, my hobby. I'm fascinated by all the army's gadgets, so I tend to collect them. That's how I got this gem."

"I see..."

"On the same note, I actually have a spare one. It's not the latest model, but it'll do."

Dong rummaged through his bag and handed the other pair of infrared glasses to Aiden.

"Is it really okay for me to take it?"

"Yes, well, if we need another one, we just have to search a weapon store or one of the army bases."

"Thanks. I really appreciate it."

Aiden put on the infrared glasses and said, "We should head out then."

Dong asked, "Where do you think we should go now?"

"What we need is information, so a place with more people, maybe a hospital, a police station, or a church."

Aiden tried to recall the nearest one of those three from memory and identified a hospital that was the closest.

"Let's go, Dong! I think Serenity Hospital is the closest."

Ready, they headed out.

To be continued...