Ch: 8 [Scavengers pt1]

[AN: This is going to be a bit dark and gory.]

I take a deep breath, trying to shake off the unsettling effects of the dream. As I regain my composure, my mind shifts back to the task at hand - navigating the post-apocalyptic wasteland. I remember Granny's advice to seek out settlements and build relationships, and one of the settlements she mentioned stands out in my mind: New Haven.

New Haven, a larger settlement focused on agriculture and trade, seemed like a potential place to gather more information, resources, and potentially find allies. With the unsettling dream still fresh in my thoughts, I feel a renewed determination to continue my journey.

I went to the kitchen and brewed a cup of coffee and slumped on the chair. "Survive, she said." I shook my head with a lonely smile. "I don't even have a single photo of hers. Damn it all. Why do you have to show your face in my dream?" I slammed my fist on the table.

As my frustration subsides, I realize that dwelling on the past won't change my current situation. Trisa's presence in my dream served as a reminder to live and find happiness even amidst the devastation. I take a sip of the hot coffee, savoring its warmth, and decide to channel my emotions into a renewed determination to survive.

I grab a small backpack and begin to gather the necessary supplies for my journey. Bottled water, canned food, a spare set of clothes, a medical kit, and ammunition for my weapons are among the essentials I pack. Additionally, I ensure that my weapons are cleaned and in good condition, ready for any potential encounters along the way.

Before leaving the vault, I retrieve the radio frequency given to me by Max. It might come in handy for communication and potentially connecting with other survivors or settlements.

After locking everything properly, I went outside. Then I covered the vault's entrance with nearby debris. With the vault's entrance securely concealed, I set off on my journey toward New Haven.

I activated my pip boy. Surprisingly, it has an inbuilt map function.

As I activate the map function on my pip boy, a holographic display illuminates my wrist. The map reveals the surrounding area, highlighting landmarks, settlements, and potential points of interest.

I zoom in on the map, focusing on the location of New Haven. It appears to be several miles away from my current position, requiring a significant trek through the wasteland. However, the potential rewards of reaching New Haven make the journey worthwhile.

Studying the map, I plot a rough course, taking note of any potential dangers or obstacles along the way. I try to identify any landmarks or natural features that can serve as navigational markers to guide me toward my destination.

With a plan in mind, I start my journey. The wasteland stretches out before me, a barren and desolate landscape marred by the remnants of a bygone civilization. I walk cautiously, keeping an eye out for any signs of danger or potential resources.

---

On the way, I noticed an abandoned mall and decided to take a look and probably a little rest. I have been walking for hours now.

As I approach the abandoned mall, I take in its dilapidated facade and shattered windows. The exterior is covered in layers of grime and dust, a testament to the passage of time and neglect. Despite its deteriorated state, the mall still stands as a potential source of supplies and shelter.

I cautiously make my way inside, scanning the surroundings for any signs of danger. The interior is eerily quiet, the air heavy with the musty scent of decay. Broken glass litters the floor, and remnants of merchandise and debris are scattered throughout.

Using my flashlight, I navigate through the mall, exploring its various sections and searching for anything of value. I check the stores, looking for intact containers, salvaging what I can from the remnants of pre-war goods.

In one of the clothing stores, I find a backpack that appears to be in relatively good condition. It's an upgrade from my current one, offering more storage space and sturdier straps. I quickly transfer my belongings into the new backpack, grateful for the improved carrying capacity.

Continuing my exploration, I come across a small cafe area with a counter and a few tables and chairs still intact. The area seems relatively sheltered, offering a temporary respite from the harsh wasteland outside. I take a seat at one of the tables, carefully setting down my backpack and weapons.

As I sit, I take a moment to rest and reflect on my journey so far. The dream of Trisa still lingers in my mind, but I remind myself of Granny's words: "Survive, she said." The dream served as a reminder to find happiness and purpose in this desolate world, and I can't let myself be consumed by grief or dwell on the past.

Suddenly, a rustling sound took my attention away from my thoughts. I quickly took my things and rushed toward the counter and hide under it.

Huddled beneath the counter, I wait silently, my heart pounding in my chest. The rustling sound grows louder, and I can sense movement approaching. I grip my handgun tightly, prepared to kill if necessary.

Peering through a small opening, I catch a glimpse of movement. It appears to be a small group of scavengers, clad in tattered clothing and carrying makeshift weapons. They cautiously make their way through the mall, scavenging for supplies.

My initial instinct is to remain hidden and let them pass. Engaging in a confrontation with a potentially hostile group would only increase the risks and dangers I face. There are six of them. A direct fight will put me at a disadvantage.

"Are you sure he came inside?" The bigger and burly scavenger with mohawk hair and a giant club on his shoulder asked. There is a shotgun strapped on his back.

"Yes, boss. Jena saw him around the mall," One of the scavengers replied.

"Saw him around the mall or inside the mall? Do you shitheads know how big this freaking mall is?" The burly scavenger slapped on the head of the one who replied to him.

I continue to listen to their conversation, trying to gather as much information as possible. It seems that they have followed me here. Shit! I was careless.

I weigh my options, considering the potential risks and benefits of various courses of action. Confronting the scavengers head-on would likely result in a dangerous and potentially deadly fight. However, staying hidden and waiting for them to leave could lead to a prolonged wait and potential exposure if they decide to search the area more thoroughly.

"Scatter out and drag that fucking bastard to me," The Scavenger's leader ordered.

Nice. Scatter around and I will kill you fuckers one by one.

As the scavengers begin to disperse, searching for me within the mall, I carefully plan my next move. I put the gun back into the holder and took out the military knife, strapped to my shocks.

Taking a deep breath to steady my nerves, I prepare myself for a potential confrontation. With the scavengers scattered throughout the mall, I have a tactical advantage in engaging them one by one.

I quietly move from my hiding spot under the counter, staying low and making use of the mall's layout to navigate unnoticed. As I carefully make my way towards one of the scavengers, I stay aware of my surroundings, listening for any signs of their approach.

I spot one of the scavengers rummaging through a pile of debris in a nearby store. He is the one farthest away from his comrades and seems preoccupied with his search, providing me with an opportunity to strike. With a swift and calculated movement, I silently approach him from behind.

"Tsk... Not even a cigarette pack... Bastards cleared this place clean," He mumbled to himself.

I took advantage of his distracted state and swiftly move closer, positioning myself behind him. With my knife in hand, I grabbed his mouth tightly and slit his throat and then stabbed his heart twice, and then sliced his belly open.

He died without being able to put up any resistance. I dragged his body and dumped in into the changing room and took the old clothes from the shop and threw them on the bloody floor to hide the signs of blood.