Chapter 11: Safe House Build Completed
Three days later, Phoenix successfully acquired two guns and a hundred rounds of ammunition, thanks to Ryan's connections. Although the cost was steep, Phoenix didn't mind. With these firearms, he felt a surge of confidence about his survival prospects in the post-apocalyptic world.
He also completed his transaction with Patrick, securing two boxes of high-grade imported medicines essential for the uncertain times ahead.
A week flew by, and Ryan called Phoenix to inform him that the safe house was ready and awaiting his approval. Leaving the hotel where he'd been residing, Phoenix drove back to the neighborhood, eager to inspect the work. Ryan personally guided Phoenix through the inspection of the house.
Stepping inside, Phoenix's spirits lifted. Battle Dragon had lived up to its reputation, delivering a safe house of impeccable quality in record time. The house was now armored with 100mm thick steel plates as per Phoenix's instructions, and from the outside, it retained its original appearance.
Ryan walked Phoenix through the new features: "The ventilation system is military-grade, capable of filtering out any harmful gases. It's designed to thwart any external poisonous gas attacks. The heating system has been revamped using materials from the Arctic Science Institute, ensuring optimal warmth. And we didn't forget the fireplace you wanted; it's insulated to prevent 99.5% of heat loss."
With a knowing smile, Ryan continued, "We've also installed a state-of-the-art surveillance system throughout the building, complete with 300 cameras to monitor every angle."
Phoenix was astounded by the transformation. The safe house's windows had been replaced with bulletproof, explosion-proof glass, combining security with the practicality of natural light and outside views. He felt invincible in this fortress, which seemed impervious to any assault short of an army attack.
"I'm thoroughly impressed with the work," Phoenix expressed to Ryan, who was visibly pleased with the feedback.
Ryan then presented the final paperwork for Phoenix to sign, reminding him of the balance due within three months. Phoenix agreed, smiling, though he knew the final payment would never be made.
Lying on his new sofa, Phoenix admired the safe house's perfection but then realized he had forgotten a crucial element: water. A safe house without a water supply was a critical oversight. Acting swiftly, Phoenix ordered 100 large water storage buckets online, enough to hold 500 cubic meters of water, ensuring years of supply. He also planned to supplement this with mineral water from the warehouse, perfectly solving his water resource concerns.
The delivery service proved efficient, arriving within hours at his doorstep. Phoenix met the delivery personnel at the neighborhood entrance, where the ever-helpful security guard, Uncle Isaac, facilitated their entry.
The neighbors couldn't help but gossip about Phoenix's peculiar purchases. "What's going on with Phoenix? Every day it's something new," they whispered, some mockingly suggesting that he was preparing for a citywide water shortage.
Phoenix ignored their mockery, knowing that their laughter would soon turn to regret when the cold wave hit. To him, their ignorance was a tragedy waiting to unfold.
Uncle Isaac, a retired veteran and a decade-long guard of the neighborhood, approached Phoenix. "What's with all the buckets, Phoenix? Need a hand?" he offered earnestly.
Touched by Uncle Isaac's kindness and recalling his selfless act from his previous life, Phoenix decided to offer a friendly warning. "Uncle Isaac, there's talk of a particularly harsh winter ahead. It might be wise to stock up on food and water, just in case."
The old man took the advice seriously, considering the extra supplies a worthwhile precaution. With Phoenix's counsel in mind, Uncle Isaac planned to make provisions for the uncertain winter months ahead.