Adrian remained silent throughout her lecture. It was true that the world needed him, especially the stranded survivors. His life no longer belonged to himself but to a higher purpose. Earlier, he had reacted out of reflex. He did not have time to think at that moment.

"Get ready. We're heading to the mine," he said to Rozi softly.

Rozi heaved a sigh, feeling somewhat helpless. She knew there was nothing she could say to dissuade him from this. Adrian would not be the man she knew if he had not acted the way he did.

They got back into the car, and Rozi took the wheel.

Adrian then asked, "Where's the mine, Whitney? I need you to take us there."

"It's right up ahead. You'll see it when we reach the mountainside."

Adrian nodded, and the car hurried along.

***

There was a man-made cave on the hilltop of Greenheart Mountain. There was a railway track inside, which was used by the miners. The mine was abandoned after its resources were depleted.

The sounds of weeping and shout