The final beacon was in the heart of the safe zone, a large, fortified compound surrounded by walls. Jiang Yuan and Li Na walked through the gates, and for the first time in weeks, Jiang Yuan felt safe.
The safe zone was a bustling community. There were farms, workshops, and a medical center. Survivors were working together, rebuilding, and planning for the future.
Jiang Yuan was taken to the leader of the safe zone, a man named General Chen. "You're the one who killed the Hive Queen," the general said. "We owe you a debt."
Jiang Yuan shook his head. "I just did what I had to do to survive."
The general smiled. "Survival is a team effort here. We could use someone like you."
Jiang Yuan looked at Li Na, then at the safe zone. He'd found a place to belong. But he knew the apocalypse wasn't over. There were more threats, more choices, and more battles to come.