While the male cop headed back to the squad car, his supposed relative noted the concern on Gracie's expression and gave her a sympathetic look. "Hey, relax, we're not trying to shake you down for anything. All I ask is that you go back to paying your taxes when things are back to normal." She smiled as though telling a favorite joke for the hundredth time and headed back to her vehicle before they drove off. Following close behind, Gracie was led through a number of turns. As they neared the safe perimeter around the station, armed groups could be seen constructing crude barriers and pushing abandoned cars onto the sidewalks of various streets. Little by little, the community of survivors appeared to be expanding their territory.<br/><br/>Eventually, Gracie and the officers were waved through the front gate of a chain link fence that looked like it wrapped around two city blocks. The police car pulled into a nearby parking lot and its passengers stepped out to give her some directions once she had done the same. "We have some rooms open at the motel over there. Just get a key from the front desk like usual. Don't worry if you can't afford it." The multi-level complex of rooms looked like a place the bruised young woman would have no trouble affording, supposing she still bothered carrying money around. "The dentist's office isn't just for teeth anymore. Even if you're in a hurry to leave, we'd really appreciate you getting checked up while you have the chance." Indeed, what must have once been the sign for a dentist's office was now covered up by a hanging canvas with a large red cross painted on it. "We handle mechanical stuff in the station garage, so you can just unload anything you need and leave your car here. Any questions?" The officer spoke and pointed with a practiced speed which implied that she'd welcomed a good number of other newcomers to this complex, some of which could be seen going about their day between the various buildings.