With the unloading done, they grabbed a quick meal, then put the children to bed.  Some of the adults crashed too, having had a very long day.

Meg broke out a makeshift bar - opening several bottles of booze and setting out a case of cold beer.  The two groups mingled, introducing themselves and chatting about little things, like the apocalypse.

George took a chair and thumped on the table, taking on the role of storyteller and relating a colorful tale of their journey and the giant turtle battle.  He insisted that it was his crew that fired the fatal shot at the shellback.  Sam and his team objected good-naturedly, which led to a drinking contest to decide this matter of honor once and for all.

Eventually, everyone retired and the Warren grew quiet.   Except for Sam’s snoring.

*****

Morning found everyone gathered for breakfast.  There was much laughter as the two groups got to know each other better.  The folks from Luther’s group had lived for weeks with the threat of starvation and murder because of Evan’s actions.  The relief they felt now was visible in their eyes and their smiles.  Powdered eggs, real sausage, and fresh onions didn’t hurt either.

When the meal was done, they spent some time as a group discussing the skills people already had, and what they’d like to achieve.  Two of Luther’s men were former soldiers, another was a mechanic who was willing to take up the Engineering trade.   One of the women from the group was a former EMT with five years on the job.  She was fascinated by the new healing abilities within the system.  Amanda immediately adopted her into the infirmary.  Lilly picked up two elderly ladies who already had sewing skills and wanted to contribute.

Nancy and two of the other ladies became the unofficial wardens of the kids during the day.  Those from Luther’s group that were orphans had already been taken in by others, but the community at large had been helping to take care of them.   They saw no reason to change that.

Nancy pushed once again for Allistor to expand the Warren above ground.  Put up some walls and allow them to garden safely.  With more mouths to feed and more kids to occupy, it was a clear necessity.

Allistor asked her to wait with him and requested Luther and George join them.  The four of them went topside and looked around.  George admired the garden, which he hadn’t seen in the fading light on their way in.

After some brief discussion, Allistor disclosed their extensive Stronghold account and said they would add to it by selling one of the RVs.  Luther and George agreed, as long as Allistor promised they’d make a trip up to retrieve a few more.  They were a good way for groups to travel long distances that might require overnight stays.  If they were going to expand, they’d need that ability.