Sparrow absentmindedly scooped spoonful after spoonful of food into his mouth, barely chewing before swallowing like a machine. The man who had brought him the food shook his head slightly before turning to leave. He headed back inside the village house and sat at the table to eat his own portion.
With so many people to feed, the canned goods Sparrow had taken from the shopping mart had been completely used up. The remaining rice from the earthen jar was carefully packed and stored inside a backpack for later use.
After their meal, the Winters' men took up positions around the perimeter, assigning themselves to keep watch. They kept the perimeter small to eliminate blind spots and ensure nothing could slip past their defenses. Meanwhile, they allowed the civilians—especially the children and the elderly—to rest undisturbed.
