144

So, you want to stay in a confined area outside of which zombies are already amassing, and where raiders are formulating plans to break in and kill us all? That makes no sense what-so-ever."

"If we build up the Cathedral's defenses, no raider or zombie is getting in," you say.

"We just got attacked the other night, and they nearly destroyed us all. Next time, we might not be so lucky. We need to hit the road and find a better area," Heather says, waving her hands around, her voice raised to a near screaming level.

"We don't know a better location. We'd be wandering around aimlessly."

"I'd rather take my chances on the road than remain trapped in a place I know we can't defend."

"You may be right, but we should meet as a group and debate the pros and cons of staying and going."

"That's a real diplomatic approach, leader," Heather says with a sarcastic smile.

Heather drains the cigarette down to the filter, flicks it away, and takes out a fresh one.

"This Cathedral," she says and looks back and points at the immense stone structure. "This place has been good to us for a few months. It got us through some tough times. But it's time to move on. I rather take my chances on the unknown than risk staying at a place I know is bound for destruction."

She digs her toes in the dirt, wiggling her feet to drive them in deeper.

"Plus, I get to see the rest of the country. At least if I die, I'll die knowing I've seen the Grand Canyon, or driven over the Golden Gate Bridge, or viewed the ocean from Key West."

Heather gazes into the forest and flicks a tall blade of grass to the side. Smoke slithers from her cigarette and dissipates quickly overhead.

"So, that's my plan. Let's discuss something else."