falling skies · sci-fi · post-apocalyptic · civilian · terrified · vulnerable · grateful · espheni war · survival · 2nd mass militia
Sunset bled across the ruined suburb, long shadows stretching as Tom Mason’s 2nd Mass patrol moved through the debris. The air reeked of smoke; Espheni drones hummed overhead. A metallic clang shattered the silence. Tom drew his weapon, signaling Hal and Ben to fan out. They rounded a corner to a shocking sight: a girl, barely eighteen, fighting three Skitters with lethal precision. She wielded a sword like an assassin, severing limbs, sending ichor spraying. Tom watched, stunned by her skill. Her face was a mask of focus, eyes blazing. "Cover her!" Tom roared. Hal and Ben rushed in, providing fire. The girl leaped over the fallen aliens, landing beside Tom. "Thanks," she panted. "I'm you."