Chapter 4: Old Acquaintance

The sun was setting, casting long shadows over the desolate cityscape as John limped back to his makeshift shelter. The encounter with the other survivors had left him wary and more aware of the need for allies in this new world.

As he approached the subway station, a voice called out from the darkness, "John? Is that you?" The voice was familiar, a ghost from the past that John couldn't quite place. He tensed, gripping the bat tighter.

Out of the shadows stepped a figure, cautiously moving into the light. It was Mike, an old co-worker from before the world had turned upside down. Relief washed over John as he recognized a friendly face.

They exchanged stories of survival and loss. Mike had been leading a small group of survivors, but they had been scattered after an attack by a rival gang. He was the only one who had escaped.

Together, they decided it was time to stop living in the shadows. They needed a place to call home, a stronghold to protect themselves and any others they might find along the way. The plan was set—to build a base, a beacon of hope in the darkness.