Chapter 148: Reciprocity

Xiao Feng addressed Lice, "I intend to present this C-grade magic crystal to the Brannum Company. They have supplied us with so many weapons; it is only fitting we reciprocate. Besides, they are in dire need of these high-grade crystals."

Lice fell silent, focusing on driving, for they still had several hours ahead.

Nearly at one o'clock in the morning, they finally returned to Godo City. After two hours of rest in the vehicle, Xiao Feng felt somewhat rejuvenated. Upon stepping out, he glanced up at the overcast sky; it appeared rain was imminent.

Carrying his armor case and the flat box containing the Black Angel, he headed toward his quarters. Crossing the open space, he noticed many mercenaries still awake, busily setting up equipment.

Not only missiles but also radars and other devices were being arranged. Mark, holding a computer, spotted Xiao Feng and approached him. "Take a look at the defense system we've set up."

Xiao Feng set down his box and peered at the screen in Mark's hands—a bird's-eye view of the entire city marked with numerous bright points, each annotated with the names of the deployed missiles.

From a quick glance, Xiao Feng discerned that Mark had not only positioned missiles around the military camp's perimeter but also scattered them throughout every corner of Godo City.

"Excellent, excellent," Xiao Feng exclaimed with satisfaction. "It seems Godo City is virtually impregnable now."

"Indeed," Mark replied. "Moreover, I received orders to be stationed here permanently. For my own sake, the defense must be formidable. I've already coordinated with Brannum Company—more equipment will arrive tomorrow. I reckon the Alliance forces will have assembled completely by then and begin their counterattack."

"Yes, this is no trivial matter. If we survive the first wave, our future will improve considerably."

"I know. If we falter, all will be lost…"

"Heh, but if we endure, the war will truly commence!" Xiao Feng chuckled, hoisting his case and retreating to his room. He tossed his belongings aside and sank into bed, quickly succumbing to sleep.

Hours passed in an instant, and Xiao Feng awoke groggily.

Rising and rubbing his sleepy eyes, he prepared to seek something to eat, his hunger gnawing at him. Just then, Budala approached anxiously. "Xiao Feng, I have something to discuss!"

"Speak. What is it?"

"With so many new recruits suddenly joining us, our food supplies are insufficient. The Alliance army's warehouse stocks barely cover two days' provisions for everyone…"

Xiao Feng ruffled his long hair in frustration. "Ah, this sort of thing—you need to get Lice to handle it!"

"I tried. He said he couldn't manage and told me to come to you…"

"Damn, he really knows how to pass the buck. Alright, I'll deal with this. Meanwhile, organize some people to hunt and bring back game. I'll arrange for the grain—you handle the meat."

"That's doable. Many of our new recruits have prior hunting experience!"

After parting with Budala, Xiao Feng grabbed some food and made his way to Mark's team. Using one of their computers, he connected to Kelly.

"Good morning, Xiao Feng," Kelly greeted warmly.

"Good morning. I have something to discuss…"

"Just say it. I know you wouldn't reach out if it weren't important."

"Not at all—you've misunderstood. Last night, I secured a C-grade magic crystal. I intend to give it to Uncle Hebrew. Should I send it directly or have someone collect it?"

"A C-grade crystal? Are you serious?"

"Yes, truly."

"If it's a C-grade crystal, we desperately need it. I'll send someone to retrieve it immediately. You know how tense things are; I can't come myself right now. Once this situation calms, I'll visit you."

"Understood. We're swamped here as well. I'll wait."

"I'm dispatching someone right away. Xiao Feng, I miss you…" Kelly's eyes softened, noticing his weariness.

Xiao Feng smiled faintly. "I miss you too, but the ordeal has just begun—we have a long road ahead."

"I understand. Go on and focus…"

"By the way, could you arrange some food for us? Our numbers surged so suddenly that supplies are running short."

"That's easy. I'll inform Uncle Jason to coordinate shipments. Their company produces food supplies; they'll send some your way."

"Wonderful. Thank you. I must get back to work."

"Good luck."

After speaking with Kelly, Xiao Feng reminded Mark's team to vigilantly monitor the city's surroundings. Should any military movements arise, they must notify him immediately.

All nodded in agreement.

Stepping outside, Xiao Feng faced a day packed with tasks—receiving new weapons from Brannum Company, distributing arms to Protection Zone 57, and more.

He assigned Lice to deliver weapons to Zone 57 and dispatched additional mercenaries to balance the forces there.

As the convoy departed in two trucks, Brannum Company's transport helicopters arrived with a fresh wave of armaments—not only missiles but also several neutral cannons, laser turrets, communications gear, and ammunition.

This time, Xiao Feng felt reassured.

As the aircraft prepared to depart, Mark's voice crackled through the communicator: "Xiao Feng, the moment you've awaited has finally arrived…"

Xiao Feng covered his earphone, asking, "What moment?"

"I've detected Alliance troops departing from neighboring cities. They're heading our way!"

"How many?"

"A conservative estimate puts them at over two thousand. The garrisoned forces in those towns are mostly regiment-level, so they haven't deployed their full strength."

"Understood. Summon all officers of battalion rank and above. Convene a meeting in the conference room immediately…"