Mark trudged through the thick forest, his boots sinking into the damp earth with every step. He had left Texas a few days ago, escaping the dangers that had infested the once-thriving state. Now, he was deep in an unknown and unforgiving forest, trying to make his way to Maryland, where his brother lived. -- The dense trees blocked out the sunlight, creating an almost perpetual twilight in the forest. Every snap of a twig or rustle of leaves made his heart race, his hand instinctively gripping the handle of his pistol.

The world had fallen into a state of chaos and uncertainty in the wake of the devastating disease that had wiped out all women from the planet. The virus, indiscriminate and ruthless, had targeted the XX chromosome, decimating the female population without mercy. Men became dangerous and ruthless.

After what felt like hours of walking through the dense forest, Mark suddenly stumbled out into a clearing. To his surprise and relief, a farmhouse appeared in the distance, its aged wooden siding and white picket fence a stark contrast to the untamed wilderness around it. Excitement filled him at the sight of a potential safe haven, and he quickened his steps towards the house.