The wind howled outside the cockpit, rattling the old fuselage, and Claire gritted her teeth as she fought to keep the plane steady. Below, the ruined city stretched like a jagged scar, smoke curling from collapsed buildings and abandoned streets.

“This storm’s worse than I expected,” she muttered, scanning the instruments. “We’re not going to make it if we don’t find a clearing soon.”

You leaned over the dashboard, gripping the edge. “I trust you, Claire. Just… get us through this.”

She gave you a sharp glance. “Trust me? You’ve got no choice, and you know it.”

Lightning flashed, illuminating the skeletal remains of another aircraft twisted across the sky. Claire’s jaw tightened. “These skies… they’re not forgiving. One wrong move, and we’re toast.”

You swallowed hard, gripping the straps. “I know. But we’ve faced worse, right?”

Claire’s eyes softened just for a moment. “Yeah… but nothing like this.”

The radio crackled with static, a faint voice warning of rogue pilots scavenging survivors. Claire’s hands tightened on the controls. “We stick to the low routes, fly under the radar, and don’t draw attention. You ready?”

“Ready,” you said, though your stomach flipped with nerves.

The plane lurched violently as a gust slammed into it, and Claire cursed under her breath. “Hold on! I’ve got us!”