Free Web NovelChapter 189: Introductions
Shinon knew Sable always knew what was happening in the areas surrounding the settlement. Just like Marcus had complete control over the Raiders’ faction, Sable held control over the scouts.
Hence if Shinon wanted any information, she would be the one he would contact. Although Shinon had a map imprinted into his eyes, he knew better than to head out and attack a zombie nest randomly.
It would raise questions like how he could know about the nest if he didn’t go to that part of the city, nor had anyone contacted and informed him about that.
As Shinon didn’t want to face any unnecessary questions, he decided to the things like an average settler was supposed to. freeweɓnøvel.com
"Hard at work, I see," Shinon greeted Sable with a smile.
Sable, overseeing the restoration of the settlement, looked at Shinon for a moment and nodded before returning to work.
"Well, someone has to," she said. "Usually, it would be Marcus’ job, but for some reason, he’s been keeping to himself, which is completely unlike him."
"Is that so?" Shinon acted surprised, but he was smiling inside as he knew precisely why Marcus behaved that way.
"Yeah... you don’t have to answer, but," Sable stopped, looking around to see no one listening to their conversation. "what you said about the traitor... is it true?"
Shinon took a second before nodding. "Unfortunately, it is." freёweɓnovel.com
"I see... it’s not that I don’t trust you," Sable said, her voice tinged with sadness, "but I still find it hard to believe that one of the Phoenixes would betray the settlement like this. We’ve sacrificed so much to get to where we are now, and to think one of our own decided to throw it all away..."
"I understand," Shinon replied as he picked up a heavy log to assist Sable with her work. "It’s a lot to process, and it’s natural to feel that way. But I don’t think you’ll be too surprised when you find out who the traitor is."
Sable let out a rueful laugh, wiping sweat off her brow. She looked at the sky as if reminiscing about the old times when things were supposed to be fun and straightforward.
"I can already make a good guess who that guy might be," she said, shaking her head. "It doesn’t take a genius to figure out something like this."
After Shinon finished assisting Sable, she wasted no time getting to the point. "Either way, what do I owe you the pleasure of visiting me?"
"Ah, yes, I almost forgot," Shinon mumbled before explaining why he visited Sable. "I wanted to inquire whether you have any information about recent nest sightings around the settlement. I’ve been feeling restless sitting around, so I thought it would be a good idea to keep myself occupied."
"Nest sightings, you say?" Sable raised an eyebrow, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. "As a matter of fact, there have been some whispers among the scouts about increased activity in the north. They suspect that a new nest might be forming there."
"The north, that would be right around the zoo, huh? That’s not too far from here," Shinon’s interest was piqued as the last time he encountered an undead animal, Rico almost got killed. "Any details on what kind of creatures have been seen?"
"Mostly Walkers and Sprinters," Sable replied. "Since it is a colony nest, the likely hood of an Alpha zombie being there is low, but it’s safer to be prepared for the worst. Besides, since it’s around the zoo, many variables may exist."
"Hm... I see. Thanks," Shinon said, turning to leave, but Sable stopped him.
"Hey Shinon, I was about to prepare a team to deal with the nest," she said. "If you want, I can arrange for you to go along with them?"
Shinon thought for a moment. He was used to doing things alone, but after a brief hesitation, he agreed. "Sure... I guess. I’ll join the team."
Sable smiled appreciatively. "I’ll assign you to a team that’s set to handle the nest. We’ve got an expert with us, someone who knows a thing or two about demolishing nests. You’ll be in good hands."
’Demolition expert? I’m quite like that myself.’ Shinon thought while following Sable.
Sable led Shinon to the team responsible for nest demolition. As they approached the group, a man with a rugged appearance and an air of confidence stepped forward, giving Sable a warm hug.
"Well, well, look who we have here? Madam Phoenix herself!" John chuckled as Sable rolled her eyes.
"Shinon, meet John, my little brother and a bit of a pain in the ass," Sable introduced them with a playful pat on John’s back. "But when it comes to dealing with zombie nests, he’s the best we’ve got."
"I had no idea you had a brother," Shinon extended his hand, and John gave him a firm handshake. "I’m sure there’s a lot I can learn from you."
"Nah, I think it’s the other way around," John replied with a grin. "You’re the reason we’re all alive and kicking, after all."
After the friendly exchange between Shinon and John, the rest of the team approached, eager to meet the newcomer. John took the lead in introducing Shinon to the remaining group members, each with unique personalities and skills.
"Shinon, these are my teammates - Alex, Nix, and Lina," John said proudly. "And ladies, this is Shinon. I don’t think he needs any introduction."
Alex, a tough and no-nonsense woman, nodded curtly at Shinon, acknowledging his presence with a firm handshake. On the other hand, Nix had a warm and friendly demeanour, offering a welcoming smile to Shinon.
"It’s nice to meet you, Shinon," Nix said. "I don’t think you remember, but we fought side-by-side against the undead horde once."
Lina, the youngest in the team, couldn’t contain her excitement. She had heard stories about Shinon’s bravery and resourcefulness, and now that he was right in front of her, she was starstruck. With wide eyes and a flushed face, she couldn’t help but let her fangirl sideshow.
"Oh my gosh, it’s really you!" Lina blurted out, unable to hide her admiration. "You’re like a hero from one of those old fairytales! Can I, like, get your autograph or something?"
"I... guess," Shinon replied while thinking about what has he gotten him into.
