[Amerisa.]
Erika stood in the city's central square, her posture composed, yet a subtle undercurrent of grief etched itself upon her features. The once vibrant metropolis, teeming with millions of souls, now lay eerily silent. The bustling streets, the cozy homes, even the verdant public parks were devoid of life, a chilling testament to the city's forced isolation.
"Love… wherever you are, we're waiting… Please, we can't do this alone," she whispered, her voice barely audible, her eyes closing as if seeking solace in the darkness behind her eyelids.
"Erika."
Erika's eyes snapped open, and she turned her head, her gaze meeting Jennifer's.
"What happened? Are the gates…?" Erika asked, her voice laced with a mixture of hope and dread.
"Yes."
Jennifer approached Erika, her steps measured, and stood beside her, her gaze mirroring the desolate cityscape.
