It was rare, if ever, that people went outside the area of the New World. The cities along the edge were sparsely populated as is, but the ruins beyond weren’t welcoming in the slightest. Albeit life was hell for most within the confines of the cities, going outside of the strict areas was a death penalty. The few who went almost never came back. A punishment for many prisoners or normal people being wrongly accused. The outside was simply cursed. Anyone with abilities seemed to be unable to fend for themselves out there. It was almost as if the universe was forcing them into the New World.

Dove found himself tripping through concrete ruins of a once tall, elegant skyscraper. It had long since been whittled down to a base of ruins. Slick foliage covered most surfaces, making traversing difficult. Especially for Dove. To him, the outside was out to get him. First, it separated him from his training group. Then, it had the audacity to trip Dove over and over. If he weren’t exhausted and a bit rough, he would most likely be alright. But outside of the New World was different than training within its safety.

His foot slipped as he stepped on a rock covered with moss. His body hit the ground, a small thud. Great, another bruise to add to the various injuries along his body. “Shit…” he cursed beneath his breath, not making an effort to get back up just yet. The ground was cool against his back, his breath coming out slow and steady. Sunshine had faded by now, covered with clouds and approaching darkness. He might have to spend a night out here. Alone… Unsafe…

Yet footsteps approached him. Dove made no movement, staying still as he blinked his eyes. A figure hung a shadow over Dove as he looked up. A person, one he hadn’t seen before–and Dove knew nearly everyone in the Syndicate training program. “Who the hell…?” His sentence was left unfinished as they kneeled down, placing the back of their hand against his forehead. Dove sure as hell was burning up. “The hell? Stop.”