Untouched by the Outbreak

Chapter 183 The Last Stronghold’s Defenses

Inside the government's last stronghold, a bleak yet organized effort continued to sustain life. In an open area near the stronghold, eleven "specimen zombies" stood as silent guards. Genetically modified to be intimidating but lacking the strength to face off with the new, more ferocious mutant zombies and Brutes, these specimen zombies managed only to ward off the weaker, regular undead. It was a calculated yet flimsy defense, and the soldiers knew it all too well.Heavily armed soldiers monitored the perimeter as survivors, now laboring as farmers under strict oversight, worked the soil. Rows of potatoes, alongside a scattering of other hardy vegetables, were slowly taking root in the prepared fields. This land was a lifeline, a fragile answer to the stronghold's dwindling resources.

Inside the stronghold's secured meeting room, the Prime Minister sat with generals and high-ranking officials, engaged in a serious discussion about ensuring their future resources. Their immediate concern was maintaining a steady supply of food and essential goods, both for themselves and for the citizens relying on strict rations. Privately, however, it was clear that these officials enjoyed more substantial meals than the rest of the stronghold's population.

They had managed to establish a heavily guarded chicken farm, along with cattle and goats, ensuring a reliable source of protein. Each of these assets was fiercely protected, while irrigation for their farming efforts was fully operational, drawing on a complex waterway system powered by a reliable setup of solar panels. This solar backup provided consistent power, keeping water systems and minimal lighting operational without straining their limited resources.

Their plans remained uncertain and fragile, hinging on the ability to further secure resources without exposing themselves to the deadly threats lurking beyond their fortified walls.

The Prime Minister turned to Dr. Hayashi, the lead scientist responsible for the modified "specimen" zombies that guarded the stronghold. His gaze was stern. "Can you accelerate the creation of more specimens to secure this area? We need more protection if we're going to expand our operations."

Dr. Hayashi smirked, leaning back in his chair with a hint of confidence. "Consider it done," he replied. "Our current specimens will help us capture additional zombies. Once they're in the lab, I can modify them as required. However..." He paused, choosing his words carefully. "The process isn't instant. Each specimen requires time for genetic adjustment and stabilization."

The Prime Minister nodded, his expression unyielding. "Take whatever time is needed, but understand the urgency. We can't risk an unprotected expansion. Make sure these specimens are ready for field operations as soon as possible."

Dr. Hayashi gave a curt nod, masking his eagerness to dive deeper into his work. The prospect of modifying more zombies offered him a unique opportunity to advance his re

Dr. Hayashi's eyes gleamed with anticipation as he gazed at the 15 specimens before him. Each one, injected and modified, was a step closer to his vision of a personal army. But he knew that if he could capture one of the mutant types—the powerful Striders or the elusive Creepers—his research would reach unprecedented levels.

A specimen from a Strider would give him access to raw speed and lethal strength, while a Creeper would bring cunning agility, a perfect mix to engineer his ultimate weapon. The government believed he was solely working for their cause, but his ambitions were far more personal.

One day, he mused, his "enhanced" creations would set a new order in motion—one that he controlled. All he needed was the right opportunity. The next time a mutant roamed close to the stronghold, he'd be ready.