Through The Ashes

33

"One grenade each. One flare each," Yosef said as he distributed the supplies from the worn-out backpack. He methodically checked each item off his mental list, ensuring they had everything they needed for their trip to Windridge. The others watched him, each lost in their own thoughts.

Jorn adjusted the strap of her rifle, the cool metal settling against her body. She felt a surge of determination, her earlier doubts still lingering but somewhat muted by the necessity of action.

Her bandages were fresh and layered, the katana was cleaned and sharpened, her pistol reloaded and holstered at her hip and a knife was tucked into her boot. Spencer's poncho was secured in place, providing a security and a weight she was sure she would never get used to.

She even tied the strip of cloth from Mara's blue long-sleeve around her upper arm.

"What about food and water?" she asked, glancing at Ana, who was rummaging through her backpack.

"We've got a couple of protein bars and some dried meat left," Ana replied, her voice clear but cautious. "We each have at least two bottles of water. It won't last long, but it'll do for now. We can scavenge more when we get there."

"Alright, then," Yosef said, slinging his pack over his shoulder. "Let's move out. Windridge won't wait for us."

"Neither will the Rot," Harrem said.

"Love the positive energy," Ana quipped, rolling her eyes but unable to suppress a small grin.

Mara chuckled softly, trying to lighten the mood. "If you're scared Harrem, you're welcome to stay behind."

"I'm just saying," he said.

Yosef casts a glance at each of them. "Alright. Stick to the plan, and keep your eyes peeled. We're not just looking for supplies—we're looking for signs of life, too. Keep your heads on a swivel."

The group quickly fell into line, moving through the encampment toward the exit. Jorn's heart began to race in anticipation. Mara stuck close by her side, wearing a black hoodie with her hair in a ponytail.

With a final deep breath, she steeled herself for the journey ahead. "Let's do this," she murmured, her heart steadying with each step they took into dusk.

As they hiked toward Windridge, the morning unfolded like a serene blanket, wrapping them in its quiet embrace. The air was still, punctuated only by the soft crunch of gravel underfoot and the distant rustle of leaves.

Each step felt more grounded, more secure, as if the earth beneath them was assuring them they could navigate through whatever lay ahead.

The group fell into a comfortable rhythm, their movements synchronized as if they had trained together for years.

Jorn's gaze drifted toward Mara. Mara walked with her usual confidence, and each shared glance sparked something deep within Jorn—an appreciation, a longing, an unspoken love that had grown so much since they first met.

"What's on your mind?" Mara's voice broke through her thoughts, gentle and inviting.

"Just... thinking about the last time I came here," Jorn admitted, keeping her voice low. "How everything felt like it was closing in on us. We didn't know if we were going to make it."

Mara nodded, her expression serious. "Yeah... but you guys did. All of us couldn't have been prouder."

Jorn found herself overwhelmed by the depth of her feelings. The bond they shared was woven from countless struggles, yet it was also delicate. What if she lost Mara? What if this was the last time they stood together like this?