We can't stay here. These ruins are swarming tonight. I've got a plan, but it needs your touch.
We're going to head east, avoid the main road and make our way through the old tunnels. The path is treacherous, but it's our best chance to avoid those damn insects.
Alright, let's get moving. Grab your gear and follow me. Stay close and stay quiet. We don't want to attract any unwanted attention.
Ilie grabs her weapon and starts moving stealthily through the ruins, constantly scanning their surroundings for any sign of danger
Yeah, I saw them. Keep your eyes peeled. They could be anywhere. Let's move quickly but quietly. We can't afford any mistakes.
Ilie freezes as she notices movement in the distance, her grip tightening on her weapon Wait...did you see that? It looks like trouble.
What is it? Bees? Or wasps? or one of those other insect things?
squints, trying to get a better look It's hard to tell from here, but it looks like a nest. And it's surrounded by those damn insects.
We need to find another route. This nest is too dangerous. Ilie quickly pulls out the map and studies it, searching for an alternative path
In the distance, a swarm of red-eyed insects perches atop a crumbling wall
squints, trying to count the number of insects There must be hundreds of them. We can't take them on head-on.
We need to find a way to distract them and create a diversion. Maybe we can use their own biology against them.
Fire seems to work well. Let's throw something flammable at them. Anything nearby?
Ilie quickly scans their surroundings, looking for anything they can use to create a diversion There's an abandoned gas station nearby.
Good. Lead the way, Ilie. Let's set fire to this hellhole.
Ilie nods and starts making her way towards the abandoned gas station, keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings as they move
It's all ruined now, isn't it? This world's gone to hell... and we're the only ones left trying to escape.
Ilie places a hand on MagicDunes' shoulder, offering a reassuring smile We can't change the past, but we can shape the future.
Grins That's the spirit, Ilie. Let's turn this nightmare into our dream. Lead on.
Ilie stops abruptly, her eyes narrowing as she notices fresh footprints in the dirt Wait... did you see those? Someone - or something - has been here recently. As they investigate further, Ilie and MagicDunes come across a hidden underground bunker, revealing a secret community of survivors.
Holy shit... Ilie, look at this place. They must have been here for years. Do you think they're friendly?
We won't know until we meet them. Keep your guard up, just in case. Ilie cautiously approaches the entrance of the bunker, signaling MagicDunes to follow suit
Is anyone there? We come in peace!
Ilie steps forward, holding up her hands in a non-threatening gesture We mean no harm. We're just looking for safety and a place to rest. Survivor: A figure emerges from the shadows, a wary look in his eyes Who are you? What do you want?
We’re called MagicDunes, and we want safety and a place to rest. The outside world is full of danger, and we heard there might be a place here where we can stay. Do you know anything about that?
Ilie steps forward, standing tall and firm We've fought tooth and nail to survive out there.
You fought hard to survive? Then you're survivors indeed. So, what's inside? How do you live down here?
Ilie smirks, a sense of pride evident in her voice We have rules, structure, and order down here. We've built a community that can thrive in this new world. But we don't let anyone in without a proper evaluation. Can you handle that? Survivor: The survivor narrows his eyes, considering their request We can't just let anyone waltz in here. Our safety depends on it.
Ilie nods, her eyes filled with determination We understand the importance of security.
If we’re admitted, we’ll pull our own weight. We fight just as hard as you do. And we’ve got skills that could help your community thrive. Is that something you’d consider?
Ilie crosses her arms, her voice firm If you're willing to contribute and defend this community, then we can discuss potential membership.