Chapter 24: Attacked

Time seemed to slow once again as the zombie closed the distance, its clawed hands reaching out for his head, its gaping maw hungry for fresh prey. Just as he felt the tips of its jagged nails sink into his forehead, a sudden shout pierced the air, "BROTHER!" The mutated figure was yanked back by a long strap and thrown several steps away, creating a small window of salvation for Lu Zinzin.

Earlier because of her [eagle's soaring grace] ability which she can gain the agility and keen senses of an ancient, revered eagle spirit. LuZhi was able to hear the first terrified shout.

Lu Zhi's heart raced as she raced towards the scene, her mind filled with a mix of fear and determination. The frantic cries and chaotic movements of the people around her heightened her anxiety, but her focus remained locked on the well-being of her family. With each step, her concern for her loved ones deepened, driving her forward with an urgency she had never felt before.

When she finally arrived at the scene, the sight that met her eyes was a horrifying realization of her worst fears. Her brother, Lu Zinzin, lay on the ground, his pale and shocked expression reflecting the traumatic encounter he had just endured. The zombie that had attacked him still loomed dangerously close, its grotesque appearance and savage intent sending shivers down her spine.

Without a moment's hesitation, Lu Zhi swung the strap of her bag with precision, wrapping it tightly around the zombie's neck and using her incredible strength to fling it away from her brother. Her actions were a testament to her determination to protect her family at any cost, even if it meant confronting the very horrors she had once thought were confined to her memories of the apocalypse.

Rushing to her brother's side, Lu Zhi's heart clenched at the sight of his injuries. The blood and scratches were unsettling reminders of the danger that lurked in this new, uncertain world. As she held his head and performed a wiping action, her hands glowing with the healing energy of [primordial gaia's blessing], she couldn't suppress the wave of anxiety that swept over her. The virus that had transformed the zombie was an unknown entity, and she had no way of knowing how it might affect her brother.

As the healing energy flowed through her touch, mending the wound on Lu Zinzin's forehead, her concern for his well-being intensified. She desperately hoped that her abilities would be enough to counteract any potential effects of the virus, to restore his vitality and ensure his safety.

But just as her focus remained steadfast on her brother, a sudden movement caught her attention. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw the zombie she had thrown to the ground stagger to its feet, a malevolent determination in its eyes. The creature was relentless, driven by an insatiable hunger that had already proven deadly.

However, in the midst of the chaos and danger, a selfless act of bravery unfolded before her. Lu Zinzin, weak and wounded, leapt in front of his sister without hesitation. The protective instinct that bound their family together transcended fear and uncertainty, igniting a spark of courage within him. It was a testament to the unbreakable bond between siblings, a bond that could not be severed even in the face of the most terrifying threats.

"Zhizhi!" Lu Zinzin's voice rang out, a mix of urgency and determination, as he shielded his sister from the advancing zombie. In that moment, his actions spoke louder than words, affirming his unwavering commitment to her safety.

As the zombie's twisted form lunged towards them, Lu Zhi's eyes blazed with determination. She knew that her abilities, her strength, and her resolve were need here. With a deep breath, she channeled her energy, focusing her power and intent.. As she getting ready power, a gunshot was heard.

Bang!

The security personnel rushed forward, their urgent commands filling the air. They quickly surrounded the zombie, their weapons aimed at the figure that had collapsed from the gunshot. However, to their horror, the figure that was supposed to be lifeless rose once again, its shaky legs carrying it in the direction of one of the security personnel. With a sudden lunge, the zombie managed to sink its teeth into the unfortunate security officer's hand.

"Ahhh!" The scene erupted into a cacophony of screams and gunshots as chaos unfolded in front of Lu Zhi. Though she wished to help, she understood the importance of remaining hidden for the moment. Selfish as it might seem, her own survival was paramount.

Amidst the chaos, the security personnel were getting scratched and bitten, yet the zombie remained relentless, impervious to the pain it should have felt.

This particular zombie had a goal: it was drawn by the most potent power among all those present, the very power coursing through Lu Zhi. Zombies had an uncanny affinity for the strongest abilities, their insatiable hunger driving them to those who possessed significant power.

"Roar."