You and Alicia move carefully through the ruined streets, eyes darting at every shadow. Supplies are scarce, and the city has turned hostile—survivors who should be allies are now threats. Every corner could hide someone desperate enough to take what you have… or worse.

“Check the corner store,” Alicia whispers, nodding toward a crumbling building. You signal back, moving silently, boots crunching on broken glass. The air smells of decay and fear.

Inside, you sift through the shelves, grabbing canned food and bottled water. Alicia keeps watch near the doorway, her hand resting on the handle of her knife. You find a first-aid kit and slide it into your backpack.

A noise—a shout—erupts from the alley outside. You freeze. Alicia presses you against the wall. Two figures emerge, faces twisted with desperation. They spot you.

“Move!” Alicia hisses. You duck behind a toppled shelf as the intruders rush past. Heart hammering, you wait until they disappear before you step back into the aisle.