The dawn light broke gently, casting a hopeful glow over the survivors as they awoke and prepared for the day.
A new energy buzzed among them as smiles, laughter, and a certain lightness that had been missing since everything changed came back.
It was the twelfth day since the fall, and also the last day they would be here. Over the past few days, fate had seemed to turn in their favor.
They'd secured enough buses and cleared the roads, and the discovery of monster meat had helped sustain them. Now, at long last, they were ready to leave this desolate place.
The cafeteria was filled with lively chatter as survivors said goodbye to newfound friends and acquaintances. They would soon part ways, and despite the bittersweet nature of these farewells, most couldn't help but smile.
This day symbolized survival, the triumph of lasting twelve brutal days.