Chapter 17

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As the survivors journeyed across the desolate landscape, the horizon gradually shifted from endless dunes to a shimmering expanse of water. The sea separating the Scorch from Safe Haven lay before them like a barrier, its vastness both awe-inspiring and daunting. They had traveled for weeks, navigating treacherous terrain and overcoming numerous challenges, driven by the hope of finding sanctuary at Safe Haven.

Caleb, Teresa, and Newt stood at the edge of the sea, their faces reflecting a mixture of relief and uncertainty. The journey had taken its toll on them physically and emotionally, but they had persevered, fueled by the belief that Safe Haven would offer them safety and a chance to rebuild.

"It's beautiful," Teresa murmured, her voice tinged with awe as she gazed out at the expanse of water.

"It's also a barrier," Caleb added, his eyes scanning the shoreline for any signs of movement.

Newt remained silent, his thoughts drifting to Thomas once more. He wondered what Thomas would have made of their journey, of the obstacles they had faced and the hope that had sustained them. The memory of Thomas's resilience and determination bolstered his own resolve as they stood on the threshold of Safe Haven.

As they approached closer they noticed a small group of guards near a checkpoint, keeping a watchful eye on the sea. The guards were armed, their demeanor serious and alert. They wore uniforms that bore the insignia of Safe Haven, a stark reminder of the divide between safety and the dangers of the Scorch.

"We need to approach carefully," Caleb said in a low voice, gesturing for the others to follow his lead.

As the survivors journeyed across the desolate landscape, the horizon gradually shifted from endless dunes to a shimmering expanse of water. The sea separating the Scorch from Safe Haven lay before them like a barrier, its vastness both awe-inspiring and daunting. They had traveled for weeks, navigating treacherous terrain and overcoming numerous challenges, driven by the hope of finding sanctuary at Safe Haven.

Caleb, Teresa, and Newt stood at the edge of the sea, their faces reflecting a mixture of relief and uncertainty. The journey had taken its toll on them physically and emotionally, but they had persevered, fueled by the belief that Safe Haven would offer them safety and a chance to rebuild.

"It's beautiful," Teresa murmured, her voice tinged with awe as she gazed out at the expanse of water.

"It's also a barrier," Caleb added, his eyes scanning the shoreline for any signs of movement.

Newt remained silent, his thoughts drifting to Thomas once more. He wondered what Thomas would have made of their journey, of the obstacles they had faced and the hope that had sustained them. The memory of Thomas's resilience and determination bolstered his own resolve as they stood on the threshold of Safe Haven.

As they approached closer they noticed a small group of guards near a checkpoint, keeping a watchful eye on the sea. The guards were armed, their demeanor serious and alert. They wore uniforms that bore the insignia of Safe Haven, a stark reminder of the divide between safety and the dangers of the Scorch.

"We need to approach carefully," Caleb said in a low voice, gesturing for the others to follow his lead.

They moved cautiously toward the checkpoint, their hands held up in a gesture of peace. The guards tensed, their weapons at the ready as they assessed the newcomers.

"We seek refuge at Safe Haven," Caleb called out, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. "We come in peace."

The guards exchanged wary glances before one of them stepped forward, his expression guarded. "State your names and purpose."

"I'm Caleb," Caleb replied, his tone measured. "We've traveled from the Scorch seeking sanctuary."

The guard studied them for a moment, his gaze assessing and unreadable. "Follow me," he finally said.

As the sun rose over Safe Haven, casting golden hues across the fortified settlement, Newt, Teresa, Caleb, Lucas, and the other survivors gathered at the dock where a small boat awaited them. They had been cleared of any contaminants and given temporary accommodations within Safe Haven, but now it was time to complete their journey to the heart of this sanctuary.

The boat was manned by a few guards from Safe Haven, their expressions serious yet focused. They wore uniforms marked with the settlement's insignia, their weapons slung over their shoulders as they prepared for the journey across the sea.

"Everyone aboard," one of the guards called out, his voice carrying authority as he motioned for the survivors to embark.

Newt glanced at Teresa and Caleb, a mix of relief and anticipation evident on their faces. They had come so far—from the treacherous Scorch, through the vast desert, and now to the shores of Safe Haven. The journey had been grueling, testing their endurance and resolve, but they had persevered, driven by the hope of finding safety and a new beginning.

Lucas stood beside them, his gaze fixed on the boat with a mixture of apprehension and determination. He had joined their group seeking refuge like the rest of them, and now he too would make the crossing to Safe Haven.

As they boarded the boat, the guards ensured everyone was settled and secured their belongings. The survivors found seats along the sides, holding onto the railing as the boat gently rocked against the dock. The water stretched out before them, calm and shimmering under the morning sun.

"Ready?" one of the guards asked, casting a final glance over the group.

"Ready," Caleb replied firmly, his voice echoing the determination of the others.

With that, the guards cast off the moorings, and the boat began to glide across the sea. The survivors watched in silence as Safe Haven receded behind them, its walls and watchtowers standing tall against the backdrop of the desert.

The journey was smooth at first, the boat cutting through the water with ease. They passed by rugged cliffs and rocky outcroppings, the coastline gradually giving way to open sea. The guards remained vigilant, their eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of danger.

As they traveled farther from shore, Newt found himself lost in thought once more. He thought of Thomas, of their time together in the Glade and the Maze, of the bond they had shared that had sustained them through unimaginable challenges. The ache in his chest intensified as he imagined what Thomas might be going through, whether he was safe, whether he was still out there searching for them.

The boat continued its journey across the sea, the distant shore of Safe Haven growing smaller in the distance. The survivors sat in quiet contemplation, each lost in their own thoughts and prayers for a safe arrival.

Hours passed, the sun reaching its zenith in the sky. Finally, the outline of another shoreline appeared on the horizon—a distant promise of sanctuary and safety. Safe Haven awaited them, a beacon of hope amid the chaos of their world.

As they approached the docks of Safe Haven, Newt felt a surge of relief and anticipation. The guards guided the boat skillfully to shore, where other residents of the settlement waited to greet them. People gathered on the docks, their faces filled with curiosity and cautious optimism as they welcomed the newcomers.


YAYYY FINALLYYY. Sorry haha, hope you all enjoyed!

See you on the next chapter!

L'🥀

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