The Collapse of Mankind

Chapter Four, TCOM Part III

Madison hurried through the woods with Sophia in her arms, trying to get back to the camp they previously left.

Sophia had fallen to the floor about ten minutes ago from the gunshot wound she suffered. Luckily, she was quite small and light which made it easier for Madison to carry her. But no matter how light she was, Madison struggled to carry her for more than two minutes at a time.

Madison's legs were giving up. They were so worn out and ached really bad. She had to stop for a second because of how bad her legs were shaking. She lowered Sophia to the ground to take a short break. Madison put her hand on Sophia's forehead. It was boiling hot.

Madison: You've got a fever.

She was still knocked out flat. But Madison couldn't stop for long. She regained her breath before picking Sophia back up and making the last stretch to the camp.

She finally reached the gate. She stood there, grunting at how heavy Sophia was. She was slowly losing place of her footing.

Madison: I... can't keep carrying you.

Ellie walked up to the gate on the other side once she saw Madison. She didn't look happy. Madison fell to her knees, grunting. As soon as she noticed Madison carrying Sophia in her arms, Ellie immediately opened the gate and ran up to the two girls.

Ellie: Shit, is she...?
Madison: She's alive. She was shot. She's got a fever.
Ellie: Come on, lets get her inside.
Madison: I can't.

Ellie picked up Sophia from off the floor and began walking inside the gate. Madison followed closely behind. Small moans escaped from Sophia's mouth because of the pain.

Ellie: It's okay. I got you, I got you.

The trio walked inside the building to be met with Alexis, Violet and Josh.

Violet: Let me see her.

Violet looked at Sophia. She was still knocked out. Violet sighed.

Violet: I have what we need. Lay her on the sofa.

Ellie walked over to the sofa, laying Sophia down on it.

Violet: Did you get the shrapnel out?
Madison: I had nothing to get it out with.

Violet knelt down beside Sophia. She took a proper look at her.

Violet: She's running a fever. Body's tryna fight infection, poor thing.

Madison looked over at Alexis. She smiled.

Alexis: Come with me. You can tell me in depth what happened. Vi and El will look after Sophia.

Suddenly, Sophia woke up.

Sophia: Maddie?
Violet: Shh. You just try to rest, okay? We're gonna fix you up.
Sophia: Maddie?!

Madison knelt down next to Sophia, looking down at her.

Madison: Soph, listen to Violet, okay? She'll look after you.
Sophia: It hurts.
Madison: I know. But if you trust Violet with this, the pain will stop very soon.

Sophia nodded.

Madison stood up, following Alexis upstairs.