As they walked deeper into the forest, they noticed a narrow path leading further inside. Deciding to follow it, they eventually came to the end of the trail, where a two-story house stood. The house was surrounded by wooden fences, giving the place a sense of security.
Alaric turned to his family and Mason.
"This place looks safe," he said. "The fences will keep most of them out. But we should still stay alert. Follow my lead."
His family and Mason nodded, moving in behind him. Alaric ordered his controlled zombies to go ahead and scout the house. The creatures staggered forward, pushed open the door, and began searching each room.
In the kitchen, they came across two wandering zombies. Without hesitation, Alaric commanded: Attack! His controlled undead lunged at the enemies, slamming them to the ground and smashing their heads into pulp with raw, brutal force.
The moment the fight ended, several glowing messages appeared before Alaric's eyes:
Your zombie has killed an enemy. +5 XP
Your zombie has killed an enemy. +5 XP
Congratulations! You have leveled up. 2 → 3
Maximum controlled zombies increased: +1
Alaric read through the notifications quickly, then looked back at the corpses. Judging by their clothing and features, the slain zombies seemed to be an elderly couple who had once lived here. He immediately ordered his controlled zombies to drag the bodies outside the fence and dump them on the other side.
When the grisly task was done, Alaric faced his family and Mason.
"We can stay here," he said firmly. "For now, this will be our first shelter."
Hearing this, Mason and his parents exchanged glances before nodding in agreement.
To secure their safety further, Alaric sent his controlled zombies into the forest to hide and keep watch. Thanks to the strange mental bond he shared with them, he would instantly sense any danger they perceived.
Once that was arranged, Alaric turned back to his companions.
"Tell me," he said, "what are your professions?"
One by one, they answered:
Mason revealed that he was a Berserker (Epic), growing stronger and more savage the longer he fought.
Alaric's father had the Warrior (Rare) class, skilled with blades and possessing heightened endurance.
His mother was an Epic Cook, capable of preparing meals that granted powerful buffs.
His younger sister, Emma, was a Healer (Rare), able to mend minor wounds and injuries.