The Meeting

"I continue to think about it even now, and the answer is always the same."

A massive confrontation between organizations in a world like the one I lived in, where there are over 100,000 survivors on both sides, would have significant consequences for the involved groups as well as the post-apocalyptic world in general.

"Firstly, there would be a massive loss of lives..."

In such a large-scale confrontation, it would be inevitable for there to be a massive loss of lives. Intense battles, the use of weapons, and the presence of walkers would increase the number of casualties on both sides. Even survivors who do not directly participate in the fight could fall victim to collateral damage.

Loss of loved ones, parents, or children would be very common in a state of war. A war that, of course, would be impossible to wage today with all the virus mutations that existed.

"But something more important than that would be the scarcity of food."

With such a large number of survivors involved in the confrontation, essential resources such as food, water, medicine, and shelter would become even scarcer. Organizations would have to fight not only against their enemies but also for the resources necessary for survival, which would increase desperation and competition among the groups.

In turn, the massive conflict could result in groups being displaced from their settlements or having to abandon their homes to seek safety in other areas. This could lead to a forced migration of thousands of survivors, further exacerbating resource scarcity and potentially generating conflicts with other established groups in those areas.

For this, Airon was prepared. Over the past few months, he had been recovering large fishing boats, abandoned combat ships on the coasts of the seas, nuclear submarines, and abandoned vessels that were slowly undergoing maintenance for future use.

And with great effort, he took control of an aircraft carrier, which was far away from the shores of Florida.

As the post-apocalyptic world stabilized, the S.C.T. began establishing its dominance in strategic areas, including the naval fleet that could still be salvaged. With the goal of securing and maintaining these vital resources, the S.C.T. implemented a gradual plan to take control of the fleet and send soldiers and resources for its maintenance. This process was carried out as follows:

Firstly, the identification of salvageable ships. The S.C.T. established reconnaissance and exploration teams to identify ships that were still in operational conditions. These teams explored ports and coastal areas in search of vessels that could be recovered and put into operation.

Once salvageable ships were identified, the S.C.T. established secure naval bases near the ports or areas where the ships were located. These bases served as operational points from which the recovery and maintenance of the fleet would be coordinated.

The S.C.T. deployed trained soldiers specialized in naval operations to secure the recovered ships. These soldiers were experts in handling vessels, naval maintenance, and maritime security. Their main mission was to ensure the integrity of the ships and protect them from both internal and external threats.

Once the naval bases were secured and the soldiers deployed, the S.C.T. initiated the phase of recovery and repair of the ships. Teams of naval engineers and technicians worked on rehabilitating the damaged vessels, repairing critical systems, and ensuring their navigability.

To keep the fleet operational, the S.C.T. established supply and replenishment routes. The ships received provisions, fuel, and necessary equipment for their continuous operation. Additionally, the S.C.T. coordinated the sending of reinforcements and additional resources from the mainland through convoys protected by military forces.

As the S.C.T. consolidated its control over the fleet, it began integrating it into its global strategy. The recovered ships were used for maritime exploration missions, securing supply routes, and in the future, establishing communication with other communities or groups of survivors.

But in the future, the naval fleet would become a crucial tool to expand the influence of the S.C.T. and project its power in a post-apocalyptic world.

...

Airon had been thinking that a large-scale confrontation could lead to the fragmentation of existing organizations. Internal differences, rivalries, and betrayals could arise as leaders and members take different stances and split into smaller factions. This would further weaken the groups and make it more difficult to resist external threats.

"[Ten minutes to arrival, Commander!]"

"Understood, if you see anything that poses a threat, don't forget to abort the mission," Airon replied in a cold voice.

Airon was aboard one of the three helicopters in his fleet as he headed to a crucial meeting with Elizabeth, the enigmatic leader of the CRM. Tension hung in the air, as this meeting would determine whether peace would prevail or war would be unleashed between the two organizations. Airon knew that the fate of his people depended on the outcome of this negotiation.

As they flew over a desolate landscape, Airon mentally reviewed his strategy. He was determined to find a peaceful solution but was also aware that Elizabeth and the CRM posed a potential challenge to the expansion of his own organization. Striking the balance between engagement and firmness would be crucial in achieving a favorable resolution.

Finally, the helicopters landed in a remote and well-protected location where the meeting would take place. Airon and his team descended cautiously and met a delegation from the CRM awaiting them. Elizabeth stood out in the center of the group, emanating a powerful and mysterious presence.

Beside Airon's group, there was a robust person on his right side carrying a large wheeled suitcase, not carrying a weapon as it was unnecessary. To the left of Airon was Alicia Clark, his partner, carrying a slightly smaller briefcase.

The rest of Airon's escort split into two parts. The first group stayed near the helicopters with rifles in hand, while the second group headed toward Airon, their eyes locked on those soldiers covered from head to toe just like them.

"Airon, you can't imagine how long I've been imagining this meeting," Elizabeth's voice was the first to break the cold silence.

"Elizabeth, certain people have spoken a lot about you to me. I was also eager to speak with you."