The middle-aged man named Zheng was terrified by Zhou Rong’s sudden change in attitude. He quickly offered a toast and smiled apologetically, humbly stating he could do anything and was willing to follow organizational arrangements.
Zhou Rong and Yan Hao stood face to face, smoking for a while. In the factory yard below, men were gathered installing barbed wire, while women fed chickens, tended vegetables, and chatted.
Zhou Rong flicked his cigarette ash and said, “In a couple of days after the defense construction is complete, I’ll go alone to the B Military District to scout the situation. Wait for my news.”
Yan Hao frowned, “Are you crazy? Do you know how big B City is? How will you get a helicopter?”
“If the B Military District has fallen, that means tens of thousands of zombies are crammed in the shelter. Are you tired of living?”
Zhou Rong raised an eyebrow, “You mean you want to come with me? I thought you’d want to stay behind and keep your head down like the others.”
Yan Hao took a deep breath, “It’s not about staying behind; it’s about having the best chance of survival. If we face this virus like we’ve been trained, we can gather intel and possibly find a way to counteract it.”
Zhou Rong gave him a discerning look, “You truly believe we can find a solution? The odds are against us.”
Yan Hao straightened up, determination in his eyes, “We can’t give up hope. If there’s even a slight chance that we can make a difference, then we owe it to ourselves and everyone counting on us.”
Zhou Rong nodded slowly, considering his words. “Alright, let’s devise a plan. We need to be strategic. This isn’t just about us; it’s about everyone relying on us for protection.”
They spent the next few hours drafting a plan, weighing the risks against the potential outcomes. The gravity of the situation loomed over them, but the urgency in Yan Hao’s voice sparked a flicker of resolve in Zhou Rong.
Finally, as the sun began to set, Yan Hao looked out the window, his resolve hardening. “Once we go, we won’t be turning back. Are you ready for this?”
Zhou Rong gave a slow nod, “I was born ready.”
