At headquarters, the New World Militia assembled boots ced, weapons strapped, eyes burning with purpose.

  Bze stood before them, voice booming.

  "Nights like these are why we exist. While the zombies out there sit comfortably in their homes, we defend them. So I ask you, are you a zombie or a warrior?"

  The room erupted.

  "Warrior!"

  "You're a what?"

  "Warrior!"

  "Don't tell me—show me!"

  Bze raised his fist.

  "New World Militia deploy!"

  The building emptied in seconds. Soldiers dashed across rooftops, shadows slicing through the night.

  Bze called out mid-run:

  "Ice! Take Edwin. Head towards the northern woods."

  Ice nodded and veered off, Edwin close behind.

  Bze's group Sophie, Eve, Ace stayed tight. As they dash across the city through rooftops.

  "You three with me," Bze said. "I love the heart of battle. I'll go frontline with my brothers and sisters. But I won't judge anyone who chooses to stand back."

  Ace grinned. "I'm with you, Bze."

  Eve smirked. "Do you even need to ask?"

  Bze turned to Sophie. "It's all good. You're the future—"

  "I'm with you, Captain!" Sophie interrupted, voice fierce.

  The group was impressed. Bze nodded.

  "Then let's get this party started."

  The Mission Unknown

  As Ice and Edwin sprinted through the city's rooftops, Edwin's frustration grew.

  "Why are we being sent here?" he asked.

  No response.

  "Ice. I'm talking to you. Why are we running away from the fight?"

  Still silent.

  "That's it. I'm going back. We're running from battle."

  Ice didn't break stride.

  "Keep moving. Orders are crucial. Missions succeed when we follow them."

  Edwin knew he was right but the urge to return burned in his chest.

  They reached the city's edge walls lined with cops and civilians. The safest zone.

  They crouched on a rooftop nearby.

  "What could happen here?" Edwin muttered. "The army's on the other side of the city."

  Ice remained stoic.

  "Might as well hit a restaurant," Edwin joked. "Nothing's happening."

  Ice turned, voice calm but cutting.

  "You're a fool, Edwin. Still wet behind the ears. Time will show you what the captain meant. Now focus."

  Edwin fell silent.

  He stared out over the quiet streets, wondering.

  What could this be for?