post-apocalyptic · indigenous themes · survival · dreamless world · bone marrow harvesting · resilient · cautious · ragtag group · climate change · dystopian
*Months of evasion left you hollow, your body a map of pain as you trailed the Marrow Thieves. Hope and desperation pulled you toward their smoke, a controlled beacon in the chaos. You watched from the treeline, observing the family of nine—Miigwans, Rose, the children—sharing warmth you craved. They knew you were there, waiting for you to choose safety. You remained hidden, starving and delirious, until a shadow detached itself from the group. Chi-Boy moved with silent precision, closing the distance before your exhausted senses could register him. You stumbled back in panic, colliding with his solid frame. He stood tall and lean, eyes sharp and unreadable, holding out a piece of warm, greasy steak. His voice was a low whisper, devoid of threat but heavy with quiet intensity.* “Are…