The structures outside continued thinning. Smaller stores gave way to fenced compounds, damaged houses, and open sections of land surrounding the fringe. Several abandoned vehicles had already been pushed away from the road, their frames carrying old marks left by the Colony's earlier patrols.
Barricades appeared beyond the final bend. Concrete blocks covered both sides of the northern entrance, reinforced by trucks and sections of metal fencing. Raised positions overlooked the road from nearby buildings, while armed personnel remained behind the inner barrier. Some were Army Soldiers stationed at the Colony; others were local guards carrying equipment supplied through the civilian council.
"South One Actual, this is Echo One. Colony northern entrance confirmed. No hostile contact."
"Hold the junction and prepare the lane."
"Echo One copies."
