Untouched by the Outbreak

Ryo awoke to the soothing sound of soft laughter and the enticing aroma of breakfast wafting through the air. He stretched his body, his muscles still carrying the tension from the previous night's events. The warmth beside him had faded; Sakura and Aiko were already up and about.

He could hear their gentle voices drifting from the kitchen. With a quiet sigh, he rose from the bed and made his way to the shower. The hot water cascaded over his body, offering a temporary reprieve from the relentless thoughts swirling in his mind.

Images of the creeping zombie from the previous night and the muscular zombie he had encountered in town flashed through his thoughts, demanding understanding.

Refreshed after his shower, Ryo quickly dressed and made his way to the kitchen. Sakura and Aiko bustled around, setting the table with a hearty breakfast spread. They greeted him with warm smiles as he took his seat.

"Good morning, Ryo," Sakura said, placing a plate of eggs and toast before him.

"Morning," he replied, attempting a smile in return, his mind still clouded with thoughts of the night's events.

Aiko poured him a cup of coffee and sat beside him. "Is everything alright? You seem a bit distant this morning."

Ryo nodded, taking a sip of the steaming coffee. "Just pondering some things," he said, his gaze distant as his mind remained preoccupied.

They ate in a comfortable silence, Sakura and Aiko occasionally exchanging glances of concern. Ryo's thoughts were consumed by the zombies and the realization that they weren't all the same. He had encountered different types, each with their own unique characteristics and behaviors. He understood the need to categorize them, to give them names, in order to better strategize against them.

After breakfast, Ryo excused himself and retreated to his room. He retrieved his notebook and began jotting down his observations. "Creepers," he wrote, referring to the zombies from the previous night, their stalking movements earning them their name. "Brutes," he penned for the muscular zombie in town, a name that conveyed its formidable nature.

It was a small victory, a step toward comprehending and ultimately surviving in this new world.

Sakura and Aiko entered the room, their eyes curious as they noticed Ryo's concentrated expression.

"What are you writing?" Sakura inquired, her voice laced with curiosity.

Ryo hesitated for a moment before answering. "I'm making notes on the different types of zombies I've encountered," he explained, deciding it was time to share his observations with them.

Aiko's eyebrow arched in surprise. "Different types?"

Ryo nodded, his determination clear. "Yes. Aside from the regular zombies we typically see, there are others. Last night, I encountered some that moved differently, almost like they were stalking prey. I've decided to call them Creepers."

Sakura and Aiko exchanged glances, absorbing this new information.

"And there's another type I saw in town," Ryo continued, his voice steady. "A large one, with enhanced muscles and piercing red eyes. I believe it possesses greater strength and speed than the standard zombies. I've named it a Brute."

Aiko's eyes widened at the description. "You've encountered these?"

Ryo nodded, his expression softening with concern. "I didn't want to worry you both unnecessarily," he said, his voice gentle. "But I agree, it's crucial that we comprehend the threats we're up against. I've seen these zombies firsthand, and I know how dangerous they can be

Sakura stepped closer, her features etched with concern. "Why didn't you tell us sooner?"

Ryo's expression grew pensive, a flicker of concern crossing his features. "I understand your concern," he said, his voice steady. "But I think it's best if you both stay clear of this matter. It's too dangerous out there, and I won't risk your safety. The zombies are becoming more varied and unpredictable, and I can't bear the thought of anything happening to either of you."

Sakura's eyes softened, a mix of understanding and resignation reflecting in her gaze. "You're right, Ryo," she said, her voice quiet. "We know you're doing this to protect us. We trust your judgment and your strength. We'll stay here and keep everything running smoothly while you're out there facing these threats."

Aiko nodded, her expression determined. "You're our protector, and we know you have the skills to handle this. We'll be here, ready to welcome you back and provide any support you need."

Ryo's expression softened, a mix of gratitude and concern washing over his features. "Please, just promise me one thing," he said, his voice earnest. "While I'm gone, promise me that you'll stay inside the house, safe within these walls. Don't venture outside without me guarding you. The world out there is too dangerous, and I can't bear the thought of anything happening to either of you."

Sakura's eyes widened, a mix of worry and understanding reflecting in her gaze. "Ryo, we understand. We'll stay within these walls, keeping each other company and maintaining the safety of our haven. We'll be vigilant."

Aiko nodded, her expression resolute. "You can count on us to be extra cautious. We won't take any unnecessary risks."

Ryo's features relaxed, a sense of relief washing over him. "Thank you," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "Knowing that you're safe here will give me the strength to face whatever comes my way. Just... please, take care of each other. That's all I ask," Ryo said, his voice softening with a hint of affection.

"While I'm away, make sure to keep yourselves entertained. Use the laptop to play games, listen to music, or watch movies. Just remember to use the headset so you don't attract any unwanted attention from the zombies outside."

Sakura's smile was warm and reassuring, her eyes reflecting her understanding of Ryo's concern. She gave a subtle nod, conveying her agreement to keep themselves entertained, quiet, and vigilant during his absence.

Aiko's expression mirrored Sakura's determination. Her gaze held a promise to be vigilant, to take care of each other, and to ensure that boredom didn't set in. They would maintain a low profile, doing their part to ensure the zombies stayed away.

Their conversation concluded with a sense of unity and purpose. Naming the zombies was just the beginning. There were still mysteries to unravel and dangers to confront, but with Sakura and Aiko by his side, Ryo felt a renewed sense of confidence in their ability to face whatever challenges lay ahead.