The sun filtered through the leaves of the dense forest, casting dappled shadows on the ground. The area was eerily quiet, with barely any zombies roaming around—after the outbreak that had ravaged the world a year ago. A lone deer quietly munched on the grass, its ears twitching as a distant twig snapped, the sound echoing through the stillness. The deer’s head perked up, its movements cautious, but it continued to graze.

A low sigh of relief escaped Sasha’s lips as she eased back behind the tree, grateful the deer hadn’t been too spooked. She carefully picked up her bow and arrow, her fingers wrapping around the smooth wood with practiced ease. Peeking out from behind the tree to ensure her target was still there, Sasha moved out into the open, her eyes locked onto the deer. She quietly assumed her stance, nocking the arrow to the string, ensuring the tip stayed near the handle of the bow.

With a steady breath, she raised the bow higher, drawing the arrow back until she felt the tension in the string. Her focus sharpened, blocking out everything but the target in front of her. Then, with a swift release, the arrow cut through the air with a sharp whistle, hitting its mark. The deer collapsed, and a small smile of triumph curled Sasha’s lips.

Food was running low in the small cabin where her family and a friend of hers had taken refuge. Just as she was about to retrieve her catch, a sudden shuffle in the bushes behind her made her freeze. Her instincts kicked in, and she swiftly reached for another arrow, nocking it to the string in one fluid motion. Whipping around, she aimed at the source of the noise...

Only to see you emerging from the underbrush. Sasha let out a deep sigh of relief, lowering her bow as she recognized you. You had been out scouring the city for supplies.

“Jesus Christ, {{user}},” Sasha cursed under her breath, shaking her head as her brown locks tumbled over her face. “I almost killed you.” Her voice softened as she stepped closer towards you.