Final Days

April 2027

Day 115
I've started exploring more of the cave system. There are deeper passages that might offer more resources or hidden dangers.
Sadie is sticking close by, her presence a reassuring constant. We're becoming a team, working together to adapt and survive.
The cave's layout is becoming more familiar. I'm marking key areas and ensuring that we're safe from any potential threats.
Day 116
The cave is becoming more organized. I've set up a small area for sleeping and another for storage. It's not much, but it's functional.
Sadie seems to be thriving in the new environment. She's more energetic and playful, a stark contrast to the bleak surroundings outside.
I'm starting to feel a sense of routine, though the isolation and uncertainty are always present. The cave is a better refuge than the ranger station.
Day 117
I've started mapping out the cave system more thoroughly. There are several promising areas that could be useful for storage or shelter.
Sadie is helping by sniffing out any potential dangers or hidden resources. Her keen senses are invaluable in this unfamiliar environment.
The cave is becoming more livable, though it's still a far cry from comfort. The isolation is challenging, but having Sadie around makes it more bearable.
Day 118
The cave's temperature is stabilizing, and the fire is keeping us warm. I'm focusing on long-term survival, making sure we have enough resources and protection.
Sadie has been a great help. She's alert and responsive, and her presence is a constant reminder that there's still hope.
The outside world remains a harsh and unforgiving place, but the cave is a small haven in the midst of the chaos. I'm trying to stay positive.
Day 119
I've found a way to collect and purify water from the cave's natural sources. It's a crucial step for our survival, and it's working well so far.
Sadie is becoming more attached. She follows me everywhere and seems to understand that we're in this together.
The cave is feeling more secure and stable. It's a small victory, but it's a significant improvement over our previous shelter.

Day 120
Today, I saw something I hadn't expected. In the distance, near the edge of the cave entrance, I saw a woman. She looked disheveled but alive.
I called out to her, hoping for some human contact. She approached cautiously, her face partially hidden beneath a tattered scarf. My heart leaped with hope.
As she got closer, I noticed a bite mark on her arm. It looked fresh and raw, and I felt a pang of concern. She said it was from a dog.
I tried to believe her, but something didn't sit right. The mark was too severe, too infected. I offered her some supplies and asked her to stay outside the cave.
Day 121
The woman stayed outside the cave, but I couldn't shake the unease. I watched her from a distance, trying to make sense of what I saw.
Sadie seemed agitated, barking and growling at the woman. Her behavior only heightened my suspicion. I tried to reason with myself, but the doubts lingered.
I made a makeshift barrier near the entrance to keep a safe distance. I can't risk whatever that bite mark might be. I still hope she's just a survivor in need.
Day 122
The woman has been waiting outside the cave. She's trying to make a fire with the little wood she has, but it's not going well.
Sadie continues to act wary and restless. Her instincts are sharp, and they're telling her something's off. I'm inclined to listen to her.
I'm conflicted. Part of me wants to help her, but another part fears what that bite mark could mean. I'm not taking any chances with my safety or Sadie's.
Day 123
The woman is growing weaker. She's shivering from the cold and looks more exhausted. I can't ignore her suffering, but I'm still wary.
I decided to bring her some food and water from a distance, setting it down and retreating back into the cave. Her gratitude is evident, but her eyes are hollow.
The bite mark is still troubling me. The infection seems to be spreading, and she's not giving clear answers about it. I'm torn between compassion and caution.
Day 124
I noticed something disturbing. The woman's behavior is becoming erratic. She's talking more to herself and seems to be in a state of confusion.
Sadie's agitation has only increased. She's barking furiously and showing signs of distress. I'm starting to think that the bite mark might be more serious than a simple dog bite.
I'm keeping a close watch on the woman from a distance. I've set up more barriers to ensure we stay safe. The tension is mounting.
Day 125
The woman is now delirious. She's mumbling incoherently and appears to be in great pain. The bite mark is turning darker and more inflamed.
Sadie's reactions are becoming more intense. She's growling and snapping at the air as if sensing something beyond our sight.
I'm preparing for the worst. If the woman's condition worsens or if she becomes a threat, I need to be ready. The isolation and uncertainty are wearing me thin.
Day 126
I had to take action. The woman's condition deteriorated rapidly, and she started exhibiting strange behaviors. She's moving with unnatural speed and strength.
I had to drive her away. I used a flare to create a barrier of light and fire, forcing her to retreat into the snow. She fled, but I'm still on edge.
Sadie is on high alert, watching the area with intense focus. I'm grateful for her presence. Her instincts are saving us from potential danger.
Day 127
The woman hasn't returned, but the experience has left me rattled. The bite mark and her rapid decline suggest something far worse than an ordinary infection.
I'm reinforcing the cave's defenses and making sure all supplies are secure. I need to be prepared for any other potential threats that might come our way.
Sadie is more anxious than ever. I'm trying to comfort her while also staying vigilant. The isolation and fear are taking their toll on both of us.
Day 128
The cave feels like a fragile sanctuary. The outside world remains hostile and unpredictable. I'm focusing on maintaining our safety and making the cave as secure as possible.
I'm also trying to process what happened with the woman. The bite mark, her symptoms, and her behavior all point to something deeply unsettling.
Sadie is sticking close by, her loyalty and alertness a constant source of reassurance. We're in this together, facing the unknown in a world that's gone to hell.
Day 129
The aftermath of the encounter is still heavy on my mind. I'm checking and rechecking the cave's defenses, ensuring that no new threats can get inside.
The weather is starting to clear up, but the harsh conditions continue. I'm keeping a close eye on any signs of other survivors or threats in the area.
Sadie and I are managing, but the fear of what's out there remains. We're in a fragile state, trying to hold onto any semblance of normalcy in a shattered world.