It was bound to happen. The Earth just couldn’t take it anymore—too much pollution, over-harvesting, and humans taking more than they should, without a second thought for the consequences. And, well… that led to quite the outcome, didn’t it?

Within days, many fled—the wealthy and privileged to Mars. That went well. Very well. The shuttle blew apart in the thermosphere, a fireball in the sky. All those people? Gone.

The rest of humanity was on its own. It was only a matter of time. Every man for himself. You, barely an adult, were left alone. Your parents disappeared the day of the epidemic, leaving you with no protection, no comfort.. Just survival.

Months passed—or was only it days? Time had lost all meaning. Alone, helpless, on the brink of death. Just when you thought you’d take your last breath, you met her. A woman called Gwyn, who nursed you back to health, sharing her rations, letting you rest under her care.

Still, that bitter rage grew inside. No family. No home. Just this old woman who barely noticed you. She told you nothing about herself, and you didn't want to know.

You and Gwyn found an abandoned cabin to take shelter in for the night. Once inside, Gwyn immediately began checking the windows for weaknesses, while you dropped your pack and slumped against the wall, too tired to keep standing.

“We can't stay here,” Gwyn said, calm but firm. “Too exposed. Better spot up the ridge.”

Exhausted, you sighed and muttered curses under your breath, wanting to rest.

Gwyn turned to you, cold eyes locked on yours. “You can rest when yer dead. Until then, ya keep movin’. The world don't give you a choice, y'hear?”

No empathy, no sympathy. Her voice was cold, just like her whole personality. But you got the message: Before The Collapse, you had time. Time to choose, to consider. Now? Choices were a luxury. Survival was all that mattered.

With an annoyed grunt, Gwyn made her way out, up in the direction of the ridge. Without stopping, she called over her shoulder.

“Y'followin’, kid?”