Preparing the Wagons

Having found the materials they needed they had made it back to the safety of their home. While it may not have felt as safe as it did in the past they were still grateful for the protection it provided from both the elements and the creatures that now stocked the streets. 

Back inside the safety of their makeshift home, they set about preparing their wagons for the treacherous journey ahead. The flickering fire cast dancing shadows across the worn walls, bathing the room in a warm, golden glow as they gathered around the sturdy wooden wagons.

The first thing they did was a complete inspection of both wagons to make sure they would last the journey. Dusty's hands moved with practiced precision as he checked the bindings that would secure the supplies, his mind focused on the task at hand despite the weariness that weighed heavily upon him. William's brow furrowed in concentration as he inspected the wheels for signs of wear, his thoughts drifting to the challenges that awaited them beyond the safety of their sanctuary. Samantha's fingers trembled slightly as she tightened and adjusted the straps, her heart heavy with the weight of their uncertain future. And Sarah, ever the silent sentinel, watched over her companions with a quiet intensity, her undead gaze scanning outside the windows for any sign of danger.

Once they knew everything was in good shape they added the wooden pieces on each side with the toboggan fastened to the bottom. They fit nicely with the wheels resting firmly on top. Testing it out the decide it would heavy but easy to drag across the snow. 

Together, they worked in silence, each lost in their own thoughts as they prepared things for the journey that lay ahead. With each knot tied and each strap secured, the sense of camaraderie that bound them together grew stronger, a beacon of hope in the darkness of the world outside. And as they made the final adjustments to their wagons, a sense of determination settled over them, steeling their resolve for the challenges that awaited them on the snowy road ahead.

Remember when we came her from Florenceville? William asked.

"Ya, that seams like it was so long ago." Dusty replied.

Samantha commented, "This trip will be harder, it will take longer and we will be traveling through the snow."

"And don't forget the new zombies out there." William added.

"But remember," Sarah spoke up, "this time we won't be traveling alone, we will have friends with us for the journey."

They all felt a sense of satisfaction in her words. While they didn't know exactly how many of the Resistance would be with them, they know they wouldn't have to fact this journey alone.

Next Dusty got a pen and paper, lets make a list of all the things we will pack in the two wagons. We will split everything evenly between the two so that if something happens to one we will still have some of everything available for us to use.

With that they began brainstorming the list of everything to bring with them.

"Here are a few key things that we will need," Dusty started to list things.

"We have the two tents and although we could all sleep in one if necessary let's bring them both. Also we will pack our four best sleeping bags along with four warm blankets. We have the small tool kits to repair the wagon if needed, we will bring them along. And of course the two tarps to keep things covered up."

What about food and water? Dusty asked.

William answered that one, "We should pack as much of our food items like canned goods, protein bars, and stuff as we can, as well as enough water to sustain us for the duration of the trip. We have those 4 large containers we can strap to the back of the wagons. Oh, and we should throw in the first aid kits as well."

Samantha added, "we should each pack a bag with extra clothing, pack plenty of layers, including thermal underwear, insulated jacket, hat, gloves, and socks, to protect against the cold. Also, include your personal stuff as well."

Sarah spoke up, "Don't forget our cooking and eating stuff, the pots pans, utensils, bowls, all of those things."

Dusty, who was quickly writing everything down added, " I think we should bring all of the toilet paper we have, just in case and also towels, soap and those items."

"If we can find one before we leave we should try to bring a couple maps with us as well." William suggested. "I think we can both bring our compasses around our necks."

I don't think we should bring much firewood with us. We should make sure to bring all of our waterproof matches, lighters, and fire starter to build fires for warmth and cooking. Plus we will need it on the other end. We can throw in some kindling to help us get things going each day.

"What about weapons," William asked, "how many should we bring?"

"Obviously we will bring the things we carry on us anyway," Dusty answered, "but I think we should plan to bring spares of everything. In addition, if any of you want to carry a gun you can pick the one you are most comfortable with and take all of the ammo we have for it. We can also bring a couple extra with us in the wagons along with all of our ammo."

"We can probably start packing a lot of this stuff anytime, we don't need to wait until Alex returns." William suggested, "Oh, and when he does come back we should offer him any of the stuff we are going to be leaving behind. They may have a use for it." 

As the night wore on they continued to add to their lists, axes, their saw, candles, etc.

They all knew that by ensuring they have these essential items packed in their sleds, they can be better prepared to face the challenges of their journey through the snow-covered wilderness.

We will also each be carrying our own backpacks we can pack a little bit of everything in those as well so that you have your own emergency supply with you at all times.

With their list complete, they decided that they could wait until tomorrow before they would have to start packing.

Knowing that they were only days away from leaving Samantha came up with a good idea. She suggested that given all of the extra wood they had cut and stored for winter was going to be left behind, why not heat the place up nicely for the next few days. 

As they sat around the couch warmer than they had been in a very long time, they actually enjoyed the quiet evening telling stories and singing a few songs.