Lena crouched behind a rusted car, her eyes scanning the street ahead. The once-bustling avenue was now a graveyard, littered with abandoned vehicles and debris. The only sign of life—or unlife—was the occasional shambling figure, its lifeless eyes searching for the living.
"I have to find him," she whispered to herself, clutching a worn photograph of Eli. Her heart ached with the memory of her younger brother, whose smile had once brightened even the darkest days.
Lena held her breath, willing herself to remain unseen. Every muscle in her body tensed as the undead horde passed by, their groans echoing in the empty street. She waited until they disappeared around a corner before releasing a shaky breath.
"Too close," she muttered, adjusting the straps of her backpack. Her supplies were dwindling, and Eli's trail was growing colder by the day. Yet, she refused to give up hope.
Lena paused, her heart heavy with nostalgia. She remembered visiting this park with Eli, his laughter echoing through the trees as they chased each other across the grass. The memory was bittersweet, a stark contrast to the grim reality she faced now.
"I'll find you, Eli," she vowed, tearing her gaze away from the mural. Determination burned in her chest as she continued her search, each step bringing her closer to the truth.
Lena felt a surge of hope. The flare was a sign, a beacon of life amidst the darkness. It could be Eli, or perhaps another survivor who knew of his whereabouts. Either way, it was a chance she couldn't afford to miss.
"Hold on, Eli," she whispered, setting off toward the light. The city may have been a wasteland, but as long as she had hope, she would keep fighting. For her brother, for their future, and for the world that once was.
