Blake slid to their knees as the sounds they had ignored grew louder.

Someone was walking nearby to their left; fabric was swishing around their legs and boots crunching on broken twigs.

Blades were whistling through the air somewhere only a bit further left than the walker.

A bird, one they had never heard, was building a nest at the tree next to them.

They curled into a ball, covering their ears with their hands.

Silver hair fell over their eyes.

“Blake? I know it’s you.”

Karla. A little deeper, stronger, but still her.

They unfurled, reaching for their sister.

“What’s going on?” they winced at the soft sound, it was too sweet to be their voice.

“I know where we are. We have to get to others.” Karla said, oddly serious. “Can you hear where they are?”

“I-” If they were honest, they probably could. They raised their left hand, pointing in the direction of the sounds of blades and walking.

“Good. It’s probably Brandan and Jason. Lilac’s probably not moving yet.” Karla said, picking them up in her arms.

They would normally have complained about the overprotective behaviour but it was the only thing familiar.

“Why?” they couldn’t help but ask.

“When you awoke, your hearing was better, right? Well Lilac’s having a similar problem – only worse. I’d be surprised if they were able to move.”