Land of Szornyek

The apocalypse wasn't what anyone expected--no rising flood waters, no zombies, no nuclear bombs. Instead, monsters. Their sudden invasion left the world in shatters, and now, decades later, all that's left of human civilization are a few nomadic bands struggling to survive off the land. Askari was born to this world, and lives, fights, and survives alongside the community that raised her. But when she breaks one too many of the community's rules, her punishment is severe: leave. Armed with her bow and blade, Askari sets off alone, guided only by a map and the promise that if she can find a book hidden in a nearby town, then she can return. But what can one person do alone in such a harsh, violent landscape? How will she survive? Askari faces a challenge that will force her to learn not only about the world she lives in, but question what she believes about herself.

Thirty years post-apocalypse, Liah, daughter of the renowned survivor Minda, thrives in a nomadic community that navigates a monster-infested Earth. Her life changes when she meets Logan, a mysterious loner with deep knowledge of the creatures that now rule the wilds. As Logan shares his unique understanding of which monsters can be used for food, he becomes an invaluable part of Liah's life. But it's not just survival skills he brings; sparks fly between him and Liah, offering a glimpse of new beginnings in the bleak wilderness. "Minda's Daughter and the Man with the Empty Face" is a story of survival, innovation, and unexpected romance, proving that even in darkness, human connection and hope can flourish. Join Liah and Logan as they discover that some encounters can change the course of their lives forever. This short story is a companion to the Land of Szornyek series and is set after "Minda's Account of the End of the World."