Chapter 40: What's your decisions?

They finished their meal and I signaled for everyone to gather around me. I had to explain my plans to the group of survivors I took in the village. They looked at me with a mix of gratitude, curiosity, and fear.

"I know you've been through a lot, but I have some good news for you," I said, trying to sound reassuring. "As I promised, we will provide you with food, shelter, and weapons. You will be safe and protected in here. But we also need your cooperation. We are fighting a war against the zombies and humans, those whom who wish to become our enemies. and we need all the help we can get."

I looked at the children, who were clutching their parents or siblings. "The children will come with us to the base to assist in our operations there. They will have access to education about how to deal with the apocalypse so that they can be ready when the time comes, entertainment, and medical care. They will have a chance to live a normal life, something that was taken away from them by the zombies. The kids will be handled by miss Isabella, she was a teacher in the past and know how to handle kids."

I then turned to the women, who were mostly young and fit. "The women have three options. Option one is to join the training and be a soldier. You will learn how to fight, shoot, and survive. You will be part of our team of exploration, and you will have a say in our decisions. You will also have the opportunity to kill the zombies that threaten our existence. You guys will be trained similar to the men, which will train by us and the so called mercenary"

"Option two is to accompany the children and help take care of the animals. We have a farm in the base, where we raise chickens, pigs, and cows and other animals. You will help feed, clean, and milk them. You will also help make cheese, yogurt, and butter. You will provide us with fresh and nutritious food, which is essential for our health and morale. You will be lead by Jenny, who knows how to handle a farm and animals"

"Option three is to learn skills such as medicine, crafting, and cooking. We have a workshop in the base which is lead by here, mister Christopher, where you guys will make weapons, armor, and tools. You will help repair, modify, and improve them. You will also help make clothes, blankets, and bags. You will provide us with useful and comfortable items, which are important for our efficiency and comfort."

"You can choose which path you prefer. There is no right or wrong answer. Each option has its own benefits and challenges. You will be respected and valued for whatever you choose. We will return before lunch, so make your decision by then." I concluded, giving them time to think.

I took the children with him towards the mansion to prevent them from scaping. What I said was just an excuse.

We were on our way back to the mansion. I was driving the truck, while the others were sitting in the back. I could hear them talking about the group of survivors we had just met.

Amy was the first to voice her concern. "Do we really need to separate the kids and women? Can't we just bring the animals here?" She asked, sounding worried.

Steff was the one who answered her. "Showing power is necessary to prevent betrayal, Amy. It's unfortunate, but it's for the greater good." He said, sounding firm.

Nana was the next to join the conversation. "But couldn't we be kinder? Are we being too harsh on them?" She asked, sounding doubtful.

Shana was the one who replied to her. "When we first arrived, they accepted us easily because of the food. That means they trust us easily. But if someone were to tell them that there is no longer food, they might betray us and rebel." She said, sounding rational.

Lily was the last to chime in. "It might seem cruel, but it's about ensuring their loyalty and hard work. We need them to be devoted to our cause." She said, sounding confident.

I listened to their arguments, and I agreed with them. We may be devils, I don't care, as long as I protect the people I love. We were doing what was necessary to survive and to fight.

Andy, Amy, and Lily, who were sitting next to me, looked at me with admiration. They wanted to follow me. They felt motivated and inspired by me.

I checked the weapons I had collected from the village. There were some knives, machetes, axes, and a pistol. They were not much, but they were better than nothing. I decided to distribute them among the group of survivors later on.

After a couple of hours, we returned to the farm.