008, 𝐨𝐤𝐚𝐲 𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐞!

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The sun was already blistering hot by the time the group set out again, their resolve hardened by their recent encounters. Dylan's arrival had given them a new perspective and some much-needed intel, but it had also stirred up emotions, especially with Minho. The Scorch, however, offered no room for personal drama; survival was the only thing that mattered.

They made their way through the ruins, the city's skeletal remains a harsh reminder of the world lost to the Flare. Dylan led them towards a series of tunnels he had discovered. "These tunnels should offer some respite from the heat and a chance to avoid WCKD patrols," he explained.

As they approached the tunnel entrance, Lila's eyes were sharp, scanning their surroundings. "Let's not get too comfortable," she warned. "The Scorch is full of surprises."

The group entered the tunnels, grateful for the brief relief from the scorching sun. The tunnels were dark and narrow, with the occasional eerie sound echoing off the walls. Dylan's lead proved valuable as they navigated the labyrinthine passages.

"I hope this isn't just an elaborate trap," Minho muttered, glancing around suspiciously.

Dylan's smile was reassuring, if a little smug. "Trust me, this is one of the safest places we've got right now."

After a while, the group emerged into a small, dimly lit chamber. There were scattered supplies and some makeshift bedding. Dylan gestured for them to settle in. "We've been using this place as a temporary hideout. It's not perfect, but it's better than nothing."

As the group settled down, Lila approached Dylan. "We need to get more information on WCKD's movements. What's the latest?"

Dylan sighed. "They've been tightening their patrols. We've heard rumors of a new facility nearby, but it's heavily guarded. If we're going to make a move, we need to be cautious."

Thomas, who had been listening intently, nodded. "We need to get inside that facility and see what WCKD is up to. They're not just hunting us—they're experimenting. We need answers."

The group agreed to rest for the night and set out in the morning. As they prepared to sleep, Minho couldn't help but throw another jab. "So, Dylan, got any other surprises up your sleeve?"

Dylan chuckled. "Just the usual—staying alive and making sure you all do the same."

The next morning, they packed up and resumed their journey. As they approached the facility Dylan had mentioned, they noticed an ominous structure in the distance. It resembled an abandoned skyscraper, its once-proud facade now a crumbling shell.

"This is it," Dylan said. "The new facility. It's heavily guarded, so we need to be careful."

Lila scanned the area, her eyes narrowed. "We'll need to find a way in without being spotted."

Thomas led the group towards the facility, carefully avoiding the patrols. They reached a side entrance, partially hidden by rubble. With a bit of effort, they managed to pry it open and slip inside.

The facility was eerily quiet. The group moved cautiously through the darkened corridors, their footsteps echoing off the walls. They passed through a series of labs and control rooms, finding little of immediate interest until they reached a room with a large monitor displaying a live feed.

The feed showed various locations throughout the Scorch, including the area where they had recently been. "WCKD's got eyes everywhere," Minho muttered.

Suddenly, they heard voices approaching. Dylan led them to a side door, which opened into a stairwell. They climbed several flights, trying to stay as quiet as possible. At the top, they found themselves in a small, nondescript office.

Inside the office, they discovered several files and documents scattered across a desk. Dylan began examining them, while the rest of the group stood watch. "These documents could be critical," Dylan said, his tone serious. "If we can make sense of them, we might get a clearer picture of WCKD's plans."

Thomas rifled through the papers, his eyes widening as he read. "This looks like research data on the Flare and some kind of experimental treatments."

Lila glanced at the documents, her expression grim. "They're experimenting with the Flare. No wonder they're so relentless."

As they gathered the documents, they heard a commotion outside the office. WCKD patrols were closing in. "We need to move, now!" Lila urged.

The group quickly exited the office and made their way back down the stairwell, but their escape was interrupted by a familiar sound—Cranks.

They had inadvertently stumbled into a containment area for the Cranks. The creatures, previously restrained, were now loose and prowling the halls. The group had to fight their way through, using every ounce of their skill and strength.

Minho fought alongside Lila, their teamwork smooth and efficient. As they battled a particularly aggressive Crank, Minho couldn't help but shout over the din. "Gorgeous, you really know how to handle yourself!"

Lila, focused on the task at hand, shot him a sideways glance. "Not now, Minho. We've got bigger problems."

With the Cranks dealt with, the group managed to escape the facility and regroup outside. They were exhausted but relieved to have gathered crucial information.

As they made their way back to their temporary hideout, the tension between Minho and Lila remained palpable, but their shared victory had brought them closer. Dylan's presence had added a new dynamic to the group, and while Minho's jealousy simmered, the priority was clear: survive and uncover the truth behind WCKD's experiments.

The Scorch stretched out before them, its unforgiving landscape a constant reminder of their harsh reality. But with their newfound knowledge and determination, the group pressed on, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

𝐄𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘- TMR, MinhoWhere stories live. Discover now