Chapter 23: Recognizing Danger

( Zach's point of view )

Another week had passed, and today we were having our second lesson.

"Very good, kids! We have finished our first lesson! And our second lesson is..."

"RECOGNIZING DANGER!" we said in unison, earning applause from Teacher Lycca and Teacher Kame.

"Since we already discussed the different types of zombies, what do you kids want to know?" Teacher Lycca asked, scanning the room.

"More weaknesses!" someone shouted eagerly.

"Are there new mutants?" another voice chimed in, filled with curiosity.

Teacher Kame shook her head with a reassuring smile. "No new mutants recently, but let's have a fast recap of different type of zombies "

She pulled down a chart showing various zombies. "First, we have the Laggards. These zombies are slow and can be avoided if you're quiet. They have a shuffling gait and often moan softly. If you see a group moving slowly, it's likely laggards."

We nodded.

"Next are the Ravagers," Teacher Lycca pointed to a more aggressive-looking zombie. "These are fast and relentless. They sprint toward you with ferocity. If you see one moving quickly, it's a Ravagers—watch out! Aim for their heads to stop them, just like the Walkers."

Teacher Kame continued, "Now let's talk about the Sky Reapers. These are bird-like zombies that can swoop down from above. They're quick and often have a shrill screech. If you hear that sound, look up!"

"And then we have the Creepers," Teacher Lycca added, gesturing to a thin, bald figure. "These zombies are stealthy and can blend into the shadows. You can recognize them by their quiet movements and the way they lurk. Stay alert in darker areas."

"Next up are the Lungers," Teacher Kame said, pointing to a zombie that looked almost normal but had a long, stretching tongue.

"These can surprise you with their reach. You'll know it's a Lunger if you see one crouching low and ready to extend its tongue. Always keep your distance!"

"Also," Teacher Kame added, "the animals that turn zombies So far, we've mostly encountered zombie dogs and bird zombies. The dogs are aggressive and travel in packs. If you see one, it's best to stay silent and find a way around them."

"And remember the bird zombies," Teacher Lycca chimed in.

" These bird zombies unlike Sky Reapers, They are in the form of birds they make an annoying noise when they attack. While they don't turn humans into zombies, their screeches can attract other zombies nearby "

"And finally," Teacher Lycca concluded, "we have the Goliaths. These massive zombies are incredibly strong and hard to take down. They move slowly but powerfully, often causing the ground to shake. If you see something enormous barreling toward you, it's a Goliath."

"Remember," Teacher Kame emphasized, "all these zombies have weaknesses. Most can be distracted by noise, and they can't balance well. And don't forget that fire is a powerful weapon against them."

"So today for our next topic, we're going to learn about environmental awareness," she began, her tone serious.

"Recognizing danger isn't just about knowing zombie types; it's also about being aware of your environment."

I sat up. This about the outside

"Let's start with the basics," Teacher Lycca said, her eyes scanning the room. "Always know your surroundings. Where are the exits? Where can you hide? If danger strikes, you need to act quickly."

"Exits? From where?" someone asked, confusion evident on their face.

"From the walls, eventually," Teacher Kame replied. "Understanding the area around you is crucial for survival."

She then pulled out a small compass. "And don't forget to use tools. A compass can help you find your way if you ever need to venture outside. It's essential to be prepared."

"Outside…" The other whispered,

"Now, let's talk about sounds," Teacher Lycca continued.

"In this world, sounds can signal danger. Listen for unusual noises. If it's too quiet, that's a warning sign. Zombies might be nearby."

A chill ran through me at the thought. "What if we hear something strange?"

"Stay calm," Teacher Kame instructed. "Evaluate the sound. Is it far away? Or close? Knowing how to assess sounds can save your life."

"Also," Teacher Lycca added, "watch for signs of danger in your environment. Broken branches, disturbed ground, or anything unusual can indicate trouble."

"And remember," Teacher Lycca emphasized,

" There are dangers outside the walls beyond zombies. You could encounter wild animals or even hostile humans. Always be cautious and alert."

The room was silent as we absorbed this information. It felt overwhelming, but I understood it was necessary.

"Lastly," Teacher Kame said, "if something feels off, trust that feeling. It could save your life."

" Hostile humans? " Thame asked as Teacher Lycca about to answer , Azriel interupted.

"They can be just as dangerous as the zombies. Not everyone outside the walls has good intentions."

"Why would they attack us?" Thame asked

"Survival," Azriel replied.

"Some groups are desperate, willing to do anything to get what they need. It's a harsh world out there."

I glanced at Azriel, How did he know about that? I look at teacher lycca and teacher Kame they both look shocked too.

"What do we do if we encounter them?" Roseann asked, her voice trembling slightly.

"Stay together and avoid confrontation whenever possible," Azriel said. "But if it comes down to it, protect each other."

A heavy silence hung in the air as we processed the weight of these words.

" W-Wait! How did you know about that?! Have you got out of the Walls?! " BJ shouted refused to believe Azriel said.

" We are sorrounded by good peoples, I don't think that kind of human exist " Thame said in a low voice

" Dunno, Asked Teacher Lycca to confirmed " Azriel

" Teacher Lycca! Is what Azriel said true? Are there really humans out there that would hurt others?" Thame pressed.

Thame always believed everyone was kind. Since everyone here shows that to her.

Teacher Lycca smiled us but she's not happy it's a smile of sadness.

Teacher Kame nodded solemnly. "Yes, it's true. Not everyone is kind."

Teacher Kame lifted his shirt slightly, revealing a scar on his left side. "I was shot by other humans during a Expedition. They attacked without warning."

Gasps filled the room. Especially Thame

" Believe it or not ," Teacher Kame continued, his voice steady. "But some people will do anything to survive. Or worst , They find it fun. It's not just zombies we need to be afraid of."

The atmosphere grew tense as we took in his story. Thame looked down, her belief in the goodness of people shaken.

"But we're surrounded by good people!" Thame argued weakly.

"Not everyone outside is good, Thame," Azriel replied. "That's the reality we have to face."

Teacher Lycca placed a comforting hand on Thame's shoulder. "We need to be prepared for all possibilities. It's a harsh world."

" N-No! I don't wanna believe it! " Thame shouted and ran outside

We were shocked at Thame reaction and stand up. Everyone is whispering,

" Thame!... Lycca I'll chase her. Class dismissed kids let's continue this tomorrow " Teacher Kame said and ran after her

Everyone is worried at Thame.

" Poor Thame, Everyone acted so nice at her that she believe everyone even at the outside is the same " Roseann said and now clinging at Azriel

" Why are you harsh at Thame! "

" BJ! " I shouted when she grab Azriel collar, I immediately helped and pushed her

" Stop it! "

" Don't act like a hero now Zach! This is Az fault! " Bj said angrily

" Kids! Bj , Zach Calm down okay? No one is at fault here. Sit down everyone! Please kids listen to Teacher Lycca. What did i tell you guys about staying calm at all cost? " I pulled Azriel away at BJ and we sit down

"Gin, assist the kids back to the base. You all come with me," Teacher Lycca instructed, and the other kids followed the guards out while we trailed behind her to another room.

I recognized this room; Teacher Lycca said it was for detention.

"Please sit down," she said firmly, and we took our seats.

"Where did you learn to grab like that, BJ?" Teacher Lycca's tone was serious.

BJ couldn't respond; Teacher Lycca didn't seem to understand her attitude.

"I want you to apologize to Azriel, BJ," she said, her expression stern.

"No! Why would I?! He hurt my friend! He should be the one apologizing!" BJ retorted.

"He did the right thing, BJ. Just because everyone treats you nicely doesn't mean everyone is nice," I added, trying to stand up for Azriel. I wasn't angry with BJ, but her bullying was the reason I realized not everyone was kind.

"You too! Stop siding with him!" BJ pushed me, but Azriel held me back.

"BJ!" Teacher Lycca shouted, silencing us. Her anger was palpable.

"I don't want to get angry at you kids, but you're pushing me. For the punishment, throughout the lesson until Level Three, you six are in the same group whether you like it or not!"

"I don't want to!" both BJ and I shouted simultaneously. I didn't want to be in a group with her.

"No can do! From now on, you all better treat each other nicely! Now get your things; let's go back to the base." Teacher Lycca's authority left us quiet as we headed back.

Once we returned to the base, everyone dispersed to their houses, but I stayed behind with Azriel.

"You don't have to defend me, idiot," he said, frustration in his voice.

"Why not? BJ has been bullying you since birth. She's just jealous, and I can't stand seeing her treat you like that," I replied. Azriel was my best friend; it was only right to protect him.

"Whatever," he muttered, starting to walk away, so I followed him.

"How did you know about the hostile humans?" I asked.

" It's none of your business," he replied tersely.

"Ehh? Tell me! Did you go outside the walls?" I pressed again, but he stayed silent.

"Come on, Az! We're like brothers! Brothers don't keep secrets!" I said, throwing an arm over his shoulders.

Azriel stopped and shrugged me off. " F*ck you "

I was taken aback by his words as he quickened his pace. "Hey! Isn't that a bad word?! Where did you learn that?!" I ran after him.