The word hung in the air like a verdict. The girls didn't speak at first. They just looked at him, waiting for more. Suzune's hands pressed on the edge of the map, her eyes tracing the lines as if she could see what he saw. Miko shifted her weight, unconsciously keeping Hana tucked close. Ichika folded her arms and leaned back, eyebrows raised like she was daring him to justify it.
"Why west?" Ichika asked finally, voice flat.
"Because east is the bay. South is raider ground. North puts us on the river too soon, where every bridge is a choke point. West gives us distance before choice," Riku said. His finger traced a line away from the resort, through blocks of abandoned streets. "We put space between us and them first. Then we decide how to cross."
Suzune nodded slowly. "And fuel?"
"We've got enough to make it a district or two before we need more. The depot bought us time. Not comfort." His eyes flicked to her, steady. "We use it right."
Miko bit her lip. "What about food?"
