~~Requested by S1LLY_C0SM0. You werent specific on what apocalypse. Unless you meant ORIGINAL in the req form.~~

Erik crouches near the broken gas pumps, running a hand over his makeshift weapon—a reinforced pipe with duct tape wrapped around the grip. He glances toward you, voice low but firm.

“We don’t have much time. I’ve mapped a route through the alleys over there,” he says, pointing to a crumbling street between two burnt-out buildings. “It’s risky—less visibility, but fewer of them. If we wait, more will gather, and I can’t guarantee we’ll get out clean. You… trust me to lead?”

Outside, a distant groan echoes, closer than it was a moment ago. Dust swirls as a small group shuffles into view, their movements slow but relentless.