Story 296: The Calm Before the Storm

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting an orange glow over the desolate city ruins. Damien Rook stood on a crumbling rooftop, gazing at the horde of zombies shambling aimlessly through the streets below. His leather jacket was battered, his shotgun slung over his back, and his trusty machete gleamed faintly in the dying light. He was tired but resolute—each passing day brought him closer to his ultimate goal: the Zombie King’s stronghold.

This time, Damien wasn’t alone. Beside him stood Clara, a sharp-shooter with piercing green eyes and an unyielding spirit. They had met weeks ago in a skirmish with a rogue survivor gang, and though trust was hard-earned in the apocalypse, their bond had grown steadily. Clara, armed with her sniper rifle, had proven invaluable in thinning out the undead when Damien’s brute force fell short.

“Tomorrow, we head for the bridge,” Damien said, breaking the silence.