The Price of Carelessness: A New Journey Begins

Just as the zombie broke free, Jason reacted instantly.Spinning around, he launched a powerful kick, sending the zombie crashing backward. Without hesitation, he pulled out his knife and drove it deep into the creature's skull.

"You dare try to hurt someone in front of me? Think again," Jason muttered coldly.

He spat at the fallen zombie in disdain, wiped his knife clean, and sheathed it smoothly.

Turning to the two children, Jason knelt down slightly."Are you two alright? Are you hurt? Why did you suddenly run off?"

Leading them back carefully, Jason grabbed his walkie-talkie and announced to the others, "I found the kids. They're safe. Everyone, return to camp."

"We just came to play hide-and-seek. We used to play here before," Sophia said innocently, her big eyes flashing as she stuck her tongue out at Jason — as if the danger they'd just faced meant nothing at all.

Jason chuckled softly and tapped her nose."Next time you want to play, make sure you tell your parents first. We were all worried sick."

Then he turned to Carl, his expression turning a bit more serious."And you — you're a boy now. You must be responsible for your actions. Don't make others worry about you, understand?"

"I understand, Brother Jason," Carl nodded seriously.He was maturing faster than others his age, already grasping things like survival, danger, and even life and death.

Back at camp, the whole group breathed a collective sigh of relief. Carol hugged Sophia tightly, crying with overwhelming emotion. Lori did too, while Rick simply smiled, feeling like a giant burden had been lifted from his heart.

Night fell once again.

Today was the day they had to make an important decision — whether to leave the camp or not.Although some injured were still recovering, their conditions had improved. But after the day's gunfire, Jason knew it was only a matter of time before more zombies were drawn here.

Staying meant gambling with their lives — something Jason wasn't willing to do, especially with the whole group depending on good judgment.

"I agree we should leave tomorrow morning," Lori spoke up first.She couldn't bear the thought of losing her son or husband again. The mere idea terrified her.

"Let's vote fairly — by raising hands," Jason said."Those who want to stay in this camp, raise your hands."

The room stayed completely still. No one raised a hand.

"Alright then. Those who want to leave and find somewhere safer, raise your hands."

Swish!

Everyone's hands shot up without hesitation.

It was unanimous — they would leave.

"Since we've decided, everyone should get some rest. We set off at dawn," Jason concluded.

After the meeting, Jason called Rick, Shane, Morgan, and the others over by the police car.

"Tomorrow," Jason began, "Shane will drive the vehicle carrying our weapons and gear. Morgan, you'll drive the two pickup trucks — make sure the food supply stays safe."

Supplies and food were everything now.Jason knew these two men were dependable: Shane had been a sheriff, and Morgan was serious and trustworthy, especially when it came to survival tasks.

"As for Rick," Jason continued, "you and I will drive another car. We'll move ahead and clear the way if needed."

Their plan was now set.All that was left... was to make it through the night.