Rotting Land: Survive

Chapter 967: Chapter 952: Final Preparations for the Rescue Operation

"Old Zhao, we’re making the final preparations for tomorrow’s rescue operation."

"Rescue operation?" Even though he had anticipated it, hearing it directly from Hu Xiaodong surprised Old Zhao. He repeated uncertainly, "Xiao Hu, you, you’re saying, tomorrow you’re going to the school... to rescue people?"

Hu Xiaodong nodded with a smile. Despite the risks involved, he didn’t want to add pressure on Old Zhao at this moment: "Yes, Uncle Zhao, sorry for not telling you sooner. We were worried about your health before, so..."

Before Hu Xiaodong could finish, Old Zhao raised his right hand and waved repeatedly: "It’s okay, it’s okay, Xiao Hu. Look at what you’re saying. These days, you’re busy with school matters and looking out for the base’s safety. I should be the one apologizing. When are you planning to act?"

"As soon as Xiao Wang’s team completes the final car inspection, we’ll set off."

"Alright! I’ll go inside and prepare, wait for me!" Once the action time was confirmed, the only thought in Old Zhao’s mind was to quickly gather the necessary equipment and join the convoy heading to the school.

For days, Old Zhao had been waiting for this moment, and now that the opportunity had finally arrived, he wouldn’t miss it.

However, while Old Zhao was eager to go to the school, Hu Xiaodong had no plans to take him along.

The reason was simple: concern leads to chaos.

Not to mention whether Old Zhao might act recklessly due to excessive worry, compromising team safety.

His current physical condition alone rendered him unfit for such a heavy task.

Therefore...

"Uncle Zhao, it’s best if you don’t join this mission." Hu Xiaodong spoke softly, feeling helpless. He knew how much Old Zhao wanted to go to the school. And precisely because he understood, he realized how cruel his words were to Old Zhao.

Sure enough, after Hu Xiaodong’s words, Old Zhao frowned deeply, and his initial joy turned into solemnity: "Why can’t I go?"

The words were almost squeezed out through his teeth as Zhao Yunhai glared fiercely at Hu Xiaodong.

This was the first time Hu Xiaodong had seen Old Zhao so aggressive. Normally, the man before him was quite kind, but now...

"Uncle Zhao, don’t get excited. You’ve gone nights without sleeping. Bringing your body along for the task won’t be good for you or anyone else. Don’t worry, this rescue mission has senior commanders like Old Lin and Old Xu. We’ve made detailed plans and preparations. Xiao Wang and Luo handle the cars, while ’Zhong’ and ’Guo’ cover the equipment. Fellow members from the Sharp Blade Company are participating too, so... just rest easy at the base. I promise!! I promise to bring Lina back to you safe and sound."

Though he spoke with confidence, all team members understood the immense risks this mission could bring.

Hu Xiaodong worried about how he could apologize to Old Zhao if he failed to keep his promise of bringing Lina back safe and sound.

After all, Old Zhao was in his fifties. How could he not grasp the meaning behind Hu Xiaodong’s words?

Being eliminated from the mission at the critical moment of his daughter’s life and death was truly hard for Old Zhao to accept.

Yet difficult as it was, Old Zhao understood Hu Xiaodong’s rationale — Hu Xiaodong considered it from an operational perspective.

Perhaps his current state indeed made him unsuitable for the task.

Having thought it through, Old Zhao sighed: "Alright, Xiao Hu, I’ll follow the team’s arrangement and not join this rescue. As for Lina... I’ll entrust her to you all."

Finishing his words, Old Zhao bowed deeply, a gesture that stunned Hu Xiaodong.

"Old, Old Zhao, what, what are you doing! Please, please stand up!" Hu Xiaodong quickly stretched out his right hand to help Old Zhao upright.

Old Zhao’s action undoubtedly increased the pressure on Hu Xiaodong.

After escorting Old Zhao back inside and handing him over to Wei Yang, Hu Xiaodong walked out the door, then looked up and exhaled deeply, silently praying: If there’s a deity listening, please ensure our mission goes smoothly tomorrow.

"Brother Hu, the vehicles have been checked and are ready to go." Xiao Wang’s voice called from the earphone. Hu Xiaodong immediately shook off his distracting thoughts, pulled out his hand-held radio, and ordered in a deep voice: "All units, attention! All personnel set to participate gather at the village entrance immediately."

With the signal transmitted, the survivors, already prepared, began leaving the buildings one by one.

Gathering at the village entrance, Hu Xiaodong gave a brief pre-mission speech.

Afterwards, everyone boarded the vehicles and set off, with the rumbling fading into the night.

Considering the potential for unexpected situations, the survivors felt it wise to progress quickly toward their positions.

If unforeseen issues arose, they’d at least have adequate time to resolve them.

Luo Baocun, Shen Lian, and Li Zhong parted with the main force two kilometers from the school. This team would focus on the kiln factory phase of the operation. Meanwhile, the remaining rescue team members, led by Hu Xiaodong, continued towards the school target.

"Xiao Hu, you arrived!" Upon arrival, Lin Junfu, who had waited for a long time, promptly contacted the trailing convoy.

Moments later, Hu Xiaodong and his rescue team finally met up with Old Lin and others after parking the vehicles.

After brief greetings, Hu Xiaodong immediately reported on the current condition of their team and reached out to Luo Baocun’s detached group.

Once confirmed that they were in position, everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

Undoubtedly, the rescue team’s preparations were complete, and all they could do now was await the dawning of the day.

Seizing the lingering night, the survivors hurriedly ate to replenish their energy.

Especially Li Zhong, Li Guo, Wang Zhongyu, and Luo Baocun, who had tirelessly worked without rest these past two days, arranging the necessary vehicles and equipment.

As for Old Lin, Hu Xiaodong, and Tang Xiaoquan, they reviewed the process flow for the upcoming operation, ensuring any potential problems and dangers were identified and eliminated.

Old Zhao sat upright on a stool, his face etched with anxiety.

Wei Yang kindly handed him a cup of hot tea, opting to sit silently in the corner instead of speaking.

The girl knew that silent companionship was the best comfort at this time.

Time ticked by slowly, making the night seem both long and unbearable to the survivors.

None knew what awaited them after tonight; all they could do was adhere to their plans as closely as possible.

After five hours of waiting, dawn unexpectedly arrived!! (To be continued. If you enjoy the work, feel free to visit Qidian (qidian.com) and vote with recommendation or monthly votes; your support is my greatest motivation. Mobile users, please visit m.qidian.com for reading.)

Visit and read more novel to help us update chapter quickly. Thank you so much!