Zhou Rong drew a line on the map and said:
“Our initial plan is to enter the central area through the drainage system, then split into two groups. One group will go to the B area armory along the underground light rail” – he marked on the map – “to transport supplies and replenish ammunition, and preferably acquire an armored vehicle. This group will be led by Yan Hao, with Xiang Zi and Ding Shi accompanying.”
“The other group will follow me to C area to check the situation, with the goal of using the base’s satellite communication facilities to contact other military district shelters. If necessary, enter E area to obtain the latest virus research data before the research institute’s collapse, preserving the seed for future research by other institutions.”
Zhou Rong looked around and asked, “Who will be in this group? I’ll lead, with Chun Cao and Ying Jie accompanying. Any questions?”
In the armored vehicle, the special forces soldiers huddled in a circle on the floor.
Si Nan raised his hand, and Zhou Rong pointed with his pen: “Comrade Xiao Si, please speak.”
Comrade Xiao Si asked, “Which group am I in?”
“Which group do you want to be in?”
After a moment, Yan Hao coughed and said to Zhou Rong, “The armory has a low danger level. Big Ding will come with you, Si Nan will come with us.”
Zhou Rong neither agreed nor responded, asking Si Nan, “What do you think? Choose for yourself.”
Si Nan was silent for a while. After what seemed like a long time, he suddenly spoke in a hoarse, brief voice:
“I’ll go with you.”
When he said this, he wasn’t looking at anyone, but Yan Hao instantly knew he was speaking to Zhou Rong.
“Excellent, groups are set!” Zhou Rong tucked the military tablet under his arm and stood up abruptly: “Everyone stay alert, check your equipment, move out!”
With a muffled boom, the underground water pipe gate was blown open, and a foul stench accompanied by distant screams from the depths of the earth rushed forward.
Everyone unanimously pulled down their gas masks. Zhou Rong was choked and coughed a few times, pointing forcefully forward, signaling everyone to stay close, then jumped into the black water up to his calves.
