The morning was young as Jax crept outside, Yosei a few steps behind him. Jax's legs crumpled, but steadied himself as he gripped his dagger nervously. He turned to Yosei, who nodded, and he crept out. The sun was out but the streets were empty. Nothing new, Jax thought grimly. He had been college roommates with Yosei before the Capture, and was the last friend he had. They needed each other as they walked around the icy winter streets on the usually slient day. "You reckon there's any more survivors?" Yosei blurted out. Jax chuckled, shaking his head. "No. Not anymore." Jax hated to be so blunt, but six months ago was the worst month of his life. Jax and Yosei had seen some Sicklings a month ago, but no one else ever since. "Pity. I miss Ada." "I miss her too, Yosei." A few months ago, Jax and Yosei's mutual friend, Adelaide, had died.They had seen no one since. Jax kept his hands tight around his dagger, although he knew there weren't any Sicklings.

Jax and Yosei paid their usual visit to the grocery store warehouse, grabbed what they could, and left. They did this every day for the past six months. They quickly vanished back into their small apartment, where they would hide for a long long time.