CHAPTER NINETEEN: THE HUNTRESS AND THE STALKERS

Jane Okon - The Last Protector

The night wind howled as Jane Okon crouched on the rooftop of an abandoned store, gripping her two-edged spear tightly. She had been tracking the Stalkers for days, watching their every move.

The Stalkers weren't just another group of raiders. They were something worse. A gang of bike-riding, half-dead monsters who had somehow gained the ability to move faster than regular walkers. Their leader, a man known only as "The Warden," had given clear orders:

"Don't kill all the Men. Follow them. Let them lead us home."

Jane's jaw tightened as she observed them from a distance. She had to warn Jace and his people before it was too late.

Before setting off, she returned home one last time. The house was quiet except for the gentle hum of a lantern flickering in the corner. They just ran out of power from their generator which developed fault few days ago. Her younger brother, Ikenna, sat by the table sharpening a knife, while her sister, Amaka, plaited their grandmother's hair.

Grandma Okon looked up. "You're leaving again."

Jane nodded. "I have to. There's something bad out there. If I don't warn them, many will die."

Amaka frowned. "Jane, you don't owe these people anything. We should be worrying about us."

Ikenna slammed his knife down. "If Jane says it's bad, then it's bad. You know she doesn't leave unless it's serious."

Grandma Okon studied Jane carefully. 'You remind me of your mother. Always running towards danger instead of away from it."

Jane exhaled. "If I don't, who will?"

A heavy silence settled over the room.

Amaka wiped her hands on her skirt. "You always do this, Jane. You take on the weight of the world like you're some hero."

Jane smirked. "I never said I was a HERO. I just don't want to live in a world where monsters win."

Ikenna grinned. "Damn right."

Grandma Okon chuckled softly. "I may not always agree with you, my dear, but I know one thing-you are your father's daughter. He would have done the same."

Jane softened. "I just want to keep you all safe. That's why I fight.'

Grandma nodded. "Then go. But promise me one thing."

Jane knelt before her. "Anything."

The old woman placed a wrinkled hand on Jane's cheek. "Come back."

Jane smiled. "I will."

She stood, strapping her two-edged spear to her back. Ikenna gave her a fist bump, and Amaka sighed but pulled her into a hug.

As Jane stepped outside, she glanced at the risisng moon. It was time.