Chapter 17: Use or be Used

[ bzzz, bzzz, this is the military government, I repeat, this is the military government, to those who are still alive and hearing this we'll be dropping supplies to every cities and town around the country, I hope this will help you all to survive ] the radio announced.

There are many ambitious people heared this, Military, survivors, cannibals, raiders, this itself will be the start of war to the people, forget sharing this is about first come, first serve for the military to do this are they out of their mind!? do they still think that people will help each other at times like this?

This world has adapted to the number one rule, and that is the survival to the fittest. The winter that was supposed to be a rest for people now is a war!

[ bzz, bzz who's this? ] The telephone rang

[ This is Souta. You should have heard of the news, noh? we'll be having a massive scale project involving this. Do you want to join? ]

[ As long as we have our shares then, we'll join ]

the next day, in Souta's hometown, tons of vehicle park on the town hall, many big names that are known for the town people arrived.

Jana, the known for rival of Souta with her smart thinking, ambitiounous goals, and kind to others, many people joined her with her guards and military commanders with her side she goes inside the town hall.

Souta, the known for his devilish plan and angel like guide, with him they made it to the apocalypse, without him they are nothing by now, his charismatic appearance and mysterious aura is the one making him scary for people.

There, the two leaders gather with their military commanders and guards.

As the frigid wind howled outside, the atmosphere inside the town hall was even chillier. Jana and Souta's eyes locked in a battle of wills, each trying to gauge the other's true intentions. The sound of military boots echoed in the room as their commanders stood like stone statues, ready to carry out their leaders' orders.

"You've gathered us here because of the radio announcement, am I right?" Jana's voice cut through the tension.

Souta leaned back in his chair, a sly smile dancing on his lips. "That's right. I'll cut to the chase and tell you straight to the point. I want those supplies, and it seems you do too, right?" His gaze never wavered from Jana's.

Jana nodded, her mind racing with thoughts of strategy and potential alliances.

"I intend to seize all the supplies being sent to every town within our reach," Souta continued, his eyes glinting with ambition. "But I won't risk going after cities. It's not worth the sacrifice."

Intrigued, Jana leaned forward, her eyes narrowing. "And what plans do you have to achieve this?"

Souta's lips curled into a cunning grin. "Zombies are weak in the cold. The military sent the supplies during winter because the zombies no longer pose a threat. Dealing with mindless creatures is easy, but dealing with humans? That's a different story."

He gestured to Roger, who stepped forward and unfolded a map on the table, revealing the towns within their grasp.

"There are over 10 towns we can target," Roger explained. "With our combined forces, we can take them easily. However, other organizations will undoubtedly have the same idea. That's where you come in."

Jana's mind raced as she considered the implications. "With our military support, we can crush any opposition, but what guarantee do we have that you won't betray us later?"

Souta's expression remained enigmatic. "Trust is earned, not freely given. But let's sweeten the deal. You'll get a 20% share for helping us."

Kisse, one of Jana's aides, couldn't hold back her protests. "20%? That's unfair!"

Jana silenced her with a raised hand, her eyes never leaving Souta's. The room fell silent once more as the weight of the decision hung in the air.

Jana's smile was cunning and filled with hidden resolve. "I agree."

The room seemed to hold its breath for a moment, and then tension erupted into electrifying excitement. The tension in the room was palpable as Jana's smile formed. Her eyes locked onto Souta's, her expression unwavering despite the unease she felt inside. Souta's mysterious aura and devilish reputation had always made him an enigma, but she knew that this was a crucial moment that could determine the fate of their respective groups.

As they made their way back to their base, Jana couldn't hold back her curiosity and turned to Garb, asking, "So, what do you really think about his proposal?"

Garb let out a heavy sigh before replying, "Honestly, I think it was all a damn lie. They never wanted our help. It's all about expediting their plans. That military of theirs could wipe us out in no time, but they're keeping us around because we still serve some purpose for them."

Kisse's eyes widened in shock. "Wait, you mean they're just using us? Is this mission some kind of setup to get rid of us later?"

"Could be," Jana chimed in, her voice tinged with concern. "But turning down their offer isn't an option. If we do that, we'll end up on his bad side, and trust me, that's the last place you want to be."

Garb nodded grimly. "You remember what happened to that town nearby when they encountered those raiders? Their strategy was flawless, no mistakes. This kid isn't your average high-schooler; he's way too dangerous."

As they spoke, the tension in the air grew palpable. Each member of the group understood the risks they were facing. They knew they were dancing with a devil, but there was no other way out.

Jana clenched her fists, trying to hide her fear behind a facade of determination. "We have to be smart about this. Keep our eyes open, and our instincts sharper than ever."

Kisse nodded, her youthful bravado not entirely shaken. "I'm not afraid of some high-schooler. We can handle ourselves."

Garb offered a small smile, appreciating Kisse's spirit. "You've got guts, their Kisse. But remember, this is a whole different league. We survive by being one step ahead, and right now, we're dancing on a tightrope."

The group fell silent, lost in their own thoughts, as they continued their journey back to base. The weight of the situation hung heavy on their shoulders, each step a reminder of the dangerous game they were about to play.