The campaigns led by Ethan Blake, Kim, and Sanan began bringing more people.
With each new group, the territory expanded and more structures were built.
However, something strange was happening...
The settlement was becoming eerily empty.
A mysterious poison had spread through the water like wildfire.
Adlof sent Nilüfer D'Artois and Nourdin to investigate.
They discovered the settlement was overrun by the toxin.
Nilüfer managed to craft an antidote and began treating the survivors.
Meanwhile, the water system naturally filtered out the remaining poison over time.
Those who survived were saved.
Thus, the "Shelter" was merged into the "Settlement," with Adlof rising as the undisputed leader.
As the population grew, Adlof remained cautious:
- The new settlers stayed in the settlement.
- Only Adlof and his trusted circle (including Nilüfer) lived inside the fortified Shelter.
Sam's inventions rapidly advanced.
Nourdin created a protection squad, launching raids against the hostile dogs using Sam's deadly weapons.
But new problems arose...
Thefts and sabotage became more common.
Despite warnings, Adlof dismissed the concerns and pushed forward, expanding until the settlement grew into a massive city-like entity.
Control extended far beyond the old forest —
New settlements, shelters, and quasi-governments emerged.
A new world was taking shape.
In a secret reconnaissance mission, Adlof infiltrated a nearby settlement.
There, from a distance...
He spotted a familiar face.
Carter.
Adlof whispered in disbelief:
"Carter..."
Carter turned around — and in an instant, recognized his old friend.