章 311: Story 311: Echoes of the Past

The triumphant cheers from the depot faded into the background as Zara led the group back toward their makeshift safe zone. The tension of the battle still clung to her like a second skin, her mind replaying the moment she drove the blade into the brute’s skull. Every encounter with these abominations left her wondering just how much humanity was left in the world—and in herself.

Callum walked beside her, his rifle slung across his shoulder. He hadn’t said much since the fight, but Zara could feel his eyes on her. She finally broke the silence. “Spit it out, Callum.”

“You were reckless back there,” he said bluntly. “That thing could’ve killed you.”

Zara shrugged. “It didn’t.”

“That’s not the point, and you know it,” Callum shot back, his voice firm. “You keep throwing yourself into these fights like you’ve got nothing to lose.”

Zara stopped, her gaze hardening. “We’ve all got something to lose, Callum. I just can’t afford to hesitate when lives are on the line.”