As Ye Fan approached Donghua Restaurant, a growing sense of nervousness enveloped him. The radar map indicated that zombies were more than a kilometer away, yet within a two-kilometer radius of the restaurant, not a single zombie was in sight. The absence of the undead at such proximity raised questions about the survivors' methods.
From his position, Ye Fan even observed a shadowy figure patrolling the roof of Donghua Tower. Recalling a past encounter with survivor hostility, Ye Fan couldn't shake a feeling of unease.
"Get everyone ready to surround Donghua Building and go in to search!" Ye Fan ordered.
The Red Alert soldiers swiftly lined up, military dogs at the forefront, and weapons loaded. Sniper Chen Chuan positioned himself strategically, while Scout Xu Haoran, armed with a submachine gun, skillfully scanned the surroundings.
As the team prepared to advance, Ye Fan suddenly halted them. "Wait a minute, pull back everyone!"
The soldiers retraced their steps to Ye Fan's side.
He pondered for a moment, realizing a hasty approach might not be prudent. Uncertain if his parents were among the survivors, Ye Fan opted for caution.
"Xu Haoran, come here," Ye Fan summoned.
Addressing Xu Haoran, Ye Fan provided detailed descriptions of his father, Ye Jianguo, and mother, Xu Lizhen. Their features and characteristics were conveyed, ensuring Xu Haoran had a clear understanding.
Ye Jianguo, born on National Day, had previously worked in a tofu shop with Xu Lizhen, a retired teacher. The couple, diligent but financially constrained, supported themselves and their younger daughter, Ye Luo.
Near the survivor gathering point, Ye Fan hesitated. To avoid potential disappointment, he dispatched Xu Haoran to investigate the situation first.
Xu Haoran, adept and silent, approached Donghua Restaurant. The team spread out, covering him from all angles. If danger arose, they were poised to provide immediate protection.
In September, amidst lush greenery, the soldiers blended seamlessly into the surroundings. Every window and corner was monitored, with Chen Chuan prepared to snipe at a moment's notice.
Observing Xu Haoran's approach, Ye Fan ordered a thorough investigation before any direct action. Xu Haoran, armed with a folding mirror for surveillance, stealthily checked the second-floor windows.
"Sir, Scout Xu Haoran requests that you switch to his perspective. Do you agree?" Nana inquired.
"Agree, switch immediately," Ye Fan responded eagerly.
With the perspective shifted, Ye Fan witnessed the activity inside Donghua Restaurant through Xu Haoran's eyes.
The second floor had transformed into a makeshift living space. Survivors were busy organizing essentials – sorting cabbage, mending clothes, and preparing food. The atmosphere, however, seemed strained. A young man with a police pistol, elevated to a position of power, belittled and controlled the survivors.
Anxious not to overlook his parents, Ye Fan scrutinized the scene. Suddenly, a woman emerged from a distant single room, catching his attention.
A familiar face from high school – Lan Lili. She was alive, stylishly dressed, and surprisingly present. Greetings from the men hinted at her apparent influence within the group.
Observing Lan Lili's interaction, Ye Fan overheard a crucial revelation.
"Lao Ye and his wife!"