<div style="text-align: center">Ashley, the current patriarch of the remaining survivors, stepped up when he heard something unfamiliar approaching the group. Even with no weapons to defend himself, he stood upright and made direct contact with the men on horseback. The others were automatically weary, some even frightened by the giant creatures and the unknown humans. There were several gasps heard when people came to realize what more survivors meant. For how long had the surface been safe? Ash had little time to ponder this fact, as a male spoke up in a language he didn't understand, then quickly switched to a language they would all be able to understand.<br/>
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Ashley looked around at the others, counting the wounded in his head and the others who probably wouldn't make it alone. Most had little skill in hunting, however, everyone was knowledgeable on one subject or another. They were left with their ancestors knowledge, and books were often used as entertainment back in the bunker.<br/>
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"I'm in no position to decline," Ashley finally stated, breathing in such a way that showed he was exhausted. He watched briefly as the rest of his group was helped by the newcomers. The unconscious were hoisted onto horseback and taken to Kupuang first, and then the others followed behind. He'd never been on a horse before, and it was a lot to adjust to going full speed with such a powerful mammal. Much of the scenery was lost along the way, moving by in a blur of vibrant colors and only catching a glimpse of an herd of odd looking deer. They fled from the sound of thunderous hooves tearing through the forest, but he was eager to see more. His attention soon moved to the ruins off in the distance. They turned away from the city, and continued riding until they approached a settlement near the water. There were ships, the scent of smoked meat over an open fire, and more humans then he had ever seen in one place.<br/>
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"What is this place?" Ashley said quietly as their horses slowed to a trot. The others made way for the new arrivals to pass through, the injured given first priority and, hopefully taken to someone who could help. He was helped off of the horse by someone. "Thank you. If you hadn't come when you did, I don't know what might have happened to me. My group." Somehow he had taken the role of leader, but he was willing to accept, at least until everyone got back on their feet. "So, this is what the world has become? How long have we been missing out on...All of this?" His grey eyes turn to Gunnar, the one who led the expedition to save them. The sea breeze wafted through his thick, curly hair and reinvigorated him. He was blessed to be alive, and only wanted to show his gratitude to their rescuers.​</div>