✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

As Y/N approached the backyard, her footsteps were quick and deliberate, her breath steady despite the exhaustion from her week of traveling and her mind constantly working through the chaos. She moved with purpose, a focused intensity that seemed to fuel her more than any rest could. The others watched in quiet awe, admiring the resilience she carried despite the weight of their circumstances. It was clear to them all-Y/N couldn't afford to pause, even for a moment. Peace was a luxury she couldn't afford.

She came to a halt before the group, placing the map on the table with a sharp motion. The weight of the decision ahead loomed over them, and the group instinctively gathered around her, awaiting her next move.

As they all huddled together, catching their breath, Jiwoo quietly asked, his voice filled with uncertainty, "Are we really going to leave this place? After all these years, it's been our home..."

Y/N didn't look up immediately. Her eyes remained focused on the map, tracing the lines as if she was already calculating the next step. Her voice, when it came, was calm and steady, carrying a depth of wisdom far beyond her years. "We should focus on survival, not luxury," she said quietly but firmly. "Don't take for granted the places and comforts we've had in this world. None of it matters if we don't survive."

Her words hung in the air, heavy with truth. The group fell silent for a moment, reflecting on the weight of what she said. It wasn't about the comfort they had grown accustomed to; it was about surviving, about pushing forward in the face of adversity. The luxury of a home was fleeting, but survival? That was the only thing that truly mattered now.

As the silence stretched on, everyone nodded in agreement, the harsh reality of their situation settling in once again. They had no time for hesitation. Y/N was right-they had to leave. They had to move on if needed.

Y/N looked up and met Lee Jong Suk's eyes, giving him a nod to gather all the EXO members who were not on scouting duty. He acknowledged her instruction with a swift nod.

Turning her attention back to the group, Y/N spoke with unwavering clarity. "We're moving to the northeast town-specifically to the town hall, which will be our new base." She paused, making sure everyone was listening before continuing. "It's not like this base. It's a two-story building, surrounded by trees, which will act as a natural barrier and give us a good vantage point for lookouts."

She spread the map out on the table, her finger tracing the layout. "The ground floor has a large hall and a kitchen area with a fireplace off to the side. At the back, there's a stable for the horses-big enough for all of them, and the stable is barricaded with thick wooden walls for protection."

Jimin raised his hand, his brow furrowing with a question. "How many horses do we have?"

Y/N didn't hesitate in answering. "If we count Hyungsik's horse along with mine, it's 19. There's enough space for all of them in the stable, but unfortunately, we'll have to leave the cows and chickens behind."

She continued, her voice steady as she outlined the layout further. "The second floor has 10 to 12 rooms for the survivors. One of the rooms will be for Lee Jong Suk and IU. Excluding the core group, we have 18 survivors. If three people share one room, there will still be plenty of space for EXO and all of us to spread out. There's also a terrace, which will be the area where the 10 of us will stay. We'll need to open a door there, though, as it wasn't set up that way before."

Y/N's eyes shifted momentarily to the blueprint. "And the first floor has a balcony for lookouts. The basement contains a hall with two additional rooms-one for medical purposes and the other for Minho's office."

Minho gave a quiet nod in acknowledgment.

Suga, still processing the details, asked the question on everyone's mind. "What about the first floor? You mentioned the terrace, the second floor, the ground floor, and the basement. But what about the first floor?"

Y/N looked at Suga and the others, her voice steady and commanding. "The first floor has four rooms, to be precise. The very first room after the stairs is mine-my office. No one, and I mean no one, is allowed in there unless I say otherwise." She paused, letting the weight of her words settle in. "From that office, you can see the entire massive hall and the entrance to the town hall. It's a strategic point."

She continued, gesturing toward the layout with her hand. "The stairs are large and positioned at the back of the hall, directly in front of the entrance. On the right side, you'll find the hall; on the left, rooms for supplies, and the kitchen area, downstairs for the basement. The back door leads to the stable."

Y/N's eyes swept over the group, ensuring everyone was paying attention. "From the landing near the railing, you can see everything. It gives us a clear view of the whole layout. Three rooms left. One of them will be for Sehun, Haru, and Jiwoo. The other two are locked. They contain supplies, but no one is allowed to open them without my permission."

She leaned forward slightly, her gaze sharp. "This is a big building. We are 41 or 42 in total, and it can comfortably house up to 60 people without invading anyone's privacy. If it comes down to survival, we can even accommodate 100, but let's be clear, we are only 40 for now. Be grateful for that. Be happy we have the space, because not everyone gets that kind of luxury in this world."

Her tone softened, but the underlying message remained clear. "We're here to survive, not to get comfortable. Now, let's move forward."

---

Y/N folded the paper with a precise, practiced motion, her eyes briefly drifting to the sun hanging high in the sky, its light still strong, but the day beginning to edge toward dusk. She glanced at Jong Suk, who was watching her intently, his focus unwavering. There was no room for hesitation now. The weight of the plan settled on her shoulders, but her voice remained firm, issuing orders with purpose.

"Whoever's here in the base on lookout duty or resting from the night shifts, gather them here. Get them here, now," she said, her tone sharp, eyes scanning the group to make sure her message was clear.

She paused, giving the group a moment to process, then continued, her words measured. "You're all leaving with Saans and Hyungsik-total of eight or nine horses. You can make it before dark, Jong Suk. You'll take IU with you on your horse; I don't want her here for the last moments. Jiwoo, you and Haru are going with Hyungsik on his horse. The rest, will taking the survivors."

Her gaze hardened. "We don't have enough horses to go all at once. It'll take multiple rounds, and we can't afford to leave anyone behind. Coming back after dark is dangerous. You understand, right?"

Y/N turned her attention back to Hyungsik. "What I said stands. Hyungsik, you'll take them to the town hall. You're the only one who knows the route. We can't risk anyone getting lost or worse."

Then, to Jiwoo, she gave a brisk nod. "Go, get ready. Prepare Haru and inform IU quickly. Jong Suk, get the Exo members who are here and get them moving. I'll be back in a minute. Whatever task I've assigned to you, make sure it's done quickly and return fast."

Hobi opened his mouth, about to ask Y/N what they should do next, but before the question could leave his lips, she was already gone, her figure disappearing toward the survivor houses. The others stood in a stunned silence for a moment, watching her rush off without a second thought.

Hyungsik sighed, shaking his head with a sarcastic chuckle. "No food, no rest, just three hours of sleep this morning after a week of non-stop work... and she's off again. Wow, just wow," he muttered, the bitterness in his voice tinged with both exhaustion and respect. He was clearly impressed by her resilience, even though it seemed nearly impossible to keep up with her pace.

The rest of the group exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of concern, respect, and a little amusement. Y/N's dedication was never in question, but they couldn't help but marvel at how quickly she moved, even in the face of complete exhaustion.

Jimin let out a quiet laugh, shaking his head. "I swear, she's always like this. Just goes non-stop. You almost feel guilty standing still."

Despite the playful teasing, it was clear that Y/N's unwavering commitment had earned each of them a deeper respect for her. She may have been causing chaos, but it was chaos with purpose, and they couldn't help but admire that.

---

What felt like only ten minutes later, Y/N reappeared, running towards the group once again, this time with two large bags slung over her shoulders. The bags didn't look light-far from it. Jungkook and Taehyung, noticing her burden, immediately sprang into action, running towards her to help.

They took the bags from her, clearly surprised by their weight, but Y/N didn't stop to explain. She barely acknowledged them as she continued her brisk pace, moving ahead toward the group, issuing more orders.

"Sehun, Hobi, Jimin," she called out, her voice unwavering. "You five head to the first room in the school hallway. There are bags there for those who are leaving. Get them here, fast."

Jungkook and Taehyung, having set the bags down with a loud thud on the ground, exchanged glances, still in disbelief at the sheer speed and energy Y/N was operating with. As she moved off, leaving them behind yet again, they followed her instructions, but not without a sense of concern, their eyes lingering on her disappearing form.

The group had learned by now that when Y/N gave orders, they didn't have the luxury of questioning her methods. But as they worked quickly to get the bags, there was an unspoken understanding between them: Y/N's dedication was pushing her past her limits. And sooner or later, they'd need to step in and make sure she didn't push herself too far.

As Y/N dashed off again with now others gone too, RM, Suga, Minho, Hyungsik, and Jin exchanged glances. The tension in the air was thick, but no one spoke at first. The reality of the situation was clear-Y/N was running on sheer willpower, and it was starting to show.

---

In a matter of minutes, Lee Jong Suk returned, leading Suho, Chen, Baekhyun, Xiumin, D.O., and Kris Wu back to the backyard. Their expressions were a mix of readiness and unease, aware that something big was about to unfold. Meanwhile, the others began trickling in, carrying the bags Y/N had instructed them to fetch. The weight of the situation was palpable, but everyone moved with purpose.

IU and Jiwoo arrived with Haru, the little girl clinging tightly to her mother, her wide eyes scanning the gathered group. Just as the last bag hit the ground, dropped by Hobi, the sound of movement drew their attention to the front entrance of the wall.

From the front side of the base, Y/N appeared. Jin furrowed his brows, confusion lacing his voice. "Didn't she go to the back? How did she get here from the front?"

Y/N didn't answer, her pace unbroken as she motioned for everyone to follow her. "Come out now," she called, her tone commanding, leaving no room for questions.

The group hesitated for only a moment before they moved, stepping outside the base as instructed. And then, they froze, shock rippling through them.

Standing just outside the base were eight or nine horses, fully geared with saddles, reins, and everything in place. The animals looked prepared for immediate departure, as if they'd been waiting all along.

Jin blinked, utterly stunned. "She's been gone for what, fifteen minutes? How did she-?"

Hyungsik, still processing the sight before him, sighed, shaking his head with a mixture of respect and disbelief. "Relentless. That's the only word for her."

Y/N returned to the group, her sharp gaze scanning their frozen forms. She furrowed her brows, a flicker of impatience crossing her face. Her tone was sharp, cutting through the heavy silence.

"What are you all waiting for? Get up there!" she barked, motioning toward the horses. "And grab those bags from over there-each one of you, except Hyungsik."

Her no-nonsense attitude spurred some of them into motion, though the sheer speed at which everything was happening left others still rooted in place, trying to process.

Without waiting for further reactions, she added firmly, "I'll be back. Wait for me."

Before anyone could say a word or question her pace, Y/N turned on her heel and disappeared again, leaving behind the faint sound of her determined footsteps.

Lee Jong Suk, Suho, Chen, Baekhyun, Xiumin, D.O., and Kris Wu moved swiftly, each grabbing their designated bags and mounting their horses. The scene was a mix of hurried coordination and silent determination.

With Suga and RM's assistance, IU was carefully helped onto Jong Suk's horse, sitting securely in front of him. Jiwoo, with Haru clinging tightly to her, mounted Hyungsik's horse. Haru's small hands gripped her mother's arm as if seeking reassurance in the chaotic moment.

Despite everyone settling into their positions, Hyungsik remained on the ground, his eyes fixed in the direction Y/N had disappeared. His expression was unreadable, but a subtle tension in his stance betrayed his unease.

Suga glanced at him, breaking the silence. "Hyungsik, what's wrong?"

The weight of Y/N's relentless pace and determination wasn't lost on anyone. It was almost inhuman, but none of them dared to voice their concern too openly.

"She knows what she's doing," RM finally said, his voice steady but laced with a hint of worry. "And she's doing it for all of us."

The group fell silent again, the sound of the horses shifting restlessly the only noise as they waited, their collective gaze now drifting to where Y/N had vanished once more.

And then, there she was-Y/N, emerging from the far side of the camp, accompanied by seven more survivors, each carrying their minimal belongings. Saans walked beside her, his expression attentive as he listened to her speak. Her pace, though brisk, had slowed just enough to suggest she was finally conserving some energy.

For a brief moment, relief flickered across the group's faces. At least this time, she was walking and not pushing herself to the brink of collapse. But even in her stride, there was no hint of hesitation or faltering.

Y/N continued her quiet conversation with Saans, her voice firm but calm, as if outlining final instructions or resolving last-minute concerns. Saans nodded occasionally, his usual composed demeanor unchanged, though a glimmer of respect for her unyielding determination could be seen in his eyes.

At the entrance of the camp, Saans's horse stood ready, fully geared and prepared to ride-another testament to Y/N's meticulous planning. It waited obediently, its reins tied to the post where Y/N must have secured it earlier.

As the group gathered in front, Y/N's voice rang clear and authoritative. "Everyone, mount up," she instructed, motioning for the survivors to pair with the others who were already ready on their horses.

With the help of those standing below-BTS members, Sehun, and others-the survivors were carefully hoisted onto the horses. Each survivor settled behind a member of EXO, ensuring a safe and steady ride. Saans moved toward his horse, the last survivor-a nurse from the camp-taking her place behind him. Hyungsik climbed onto his horse as well, his posture steady, though his gaze flickered with unease.

Once everyone was settled, Y/N surveyed the scene: nine horses carrying 19 people-a daunting number, but manageable with care and vigilance. Her sharp eyes roved over the group, ensuring every strap and rein was secure.

She approached Hyungsik first. "You're leading them," she said firmly. "You're the only one who knows the way to the town hall. They're a big group, so stay alert. Don't take unnecessary risks."

Then, turning to face the entire group, she addressed them all. Her stance was resolute, and her voice carried the weight of command. "Listen carefully. You're in large numbers, which makes you both safer and more of a target. Be alert. Watch out for each other and your partners. There's no time for rest-go straight to the town hall. No detours, no delays."

Her gaze sharpened as she singled out Jong Suk. "Once you reach the town hall, Jong Suk, take the survivors, IU, Jiwoo, and Haru to the second floor. And I mean it-only the second floor. Survivors will share rooms, two per room. No exceptions. The rest of you-EXO members-will set up watch. Take shifts, and keep a lookout from the trees and the terrace. Cover every angle."

She paused, letting her words sink in, then turned back to Hyungsik. "Once you've delivered them safely, you'll come back. But Saans-you stay there. Understood?"

The group nodded, murmurs of acknowledgment rippling through the air. "Is everything clear to all of you?" Y/N asked, her eyes scanning each face. There was no room for confusion or error. Everyone nodded again, more firmly this time, their expressions a mix of determination and trust in her leadership.

Y/N watched the group as they moved, her sharp eyes following the horses as they departed. Her nod to Suho and Lee Jong Suk had been brief but meaningful, her acknowledgment of their unspoken concern. Hyungsik's promise-"I'll be careful and back soon"-lingered in her mind, but she only gave him a curt nod in response, her focus already shifting to the tasks that lay ahead.

The horses moved with purpose, not galloping but maintaining a steady pace, quick enough to cover ground but cautious enough to stay alert. Hyungsik led the way, his figure steady and commanding, while Suho and Saans kept close, their postures tense but prepared. The group began fading from view, their mission now in motion.

Y/N stood rooted in place for a moment, her arms crossed, her gaze distant. But it wasn't hesitation-it was calculation. Her mind was racing, cycling through the next steps, the next risks, the next moves.

Around her, the remaining group watched in silence. Some-like RM, Suga, and Jin-kept their eyes on the departing riders, their expressions a mix of concern and relief. Others, like Taehyung, Jungkook, and Sehun, shifted their attention to Y/N, their faces betraying a mix of worry and expectation.

They all knew her too well. She wouldn't stay put, wouldn't pause, wouldn't rest.

Hobi broke the silence, his voice tinged with both amusement and unease. "She's already thinking of something, isn't she?"

Minho smirked faintly but didn't respond. Suga sighed, running a hand through his hair, while RM crossed his arms, his posture mirroring Y/N's as he glanced at her out of the corner of his eye.

"Of course she is," Jimin muttered, shaking his head. "She's Y/N."

She turned back to the group, her expression resolute. "We don't have time to waste."

As they moved back inside the base, Y/N stopped briefly, turning to the group with her usual composed but commanding tone. "Today's watch, all of you will handle it. I have something to take care of. I'll be back before sunset."

Before anyone could question her, she strode off again, leaving everyone behind in stunned silence.

Moments later, the faint but unmistakable sound of hooves reached their ears. The group exchanged confused looks before rushing back outside, only to be greeted by a sight that left them speechless.

Y/N was on her horse, Orion-a massive, powerful steed with a sleek black coat, standing