Chapter 21: The Society of One Heart for the Nation

The building before him was less a villa and more a massive estate.

The outer perimeter wall was constructed from meticulously carved stones, each one polished by the skillful hands of craftsmen to present a unique luster and texture.

The main gate was inlaid with intricate golden patterns, showcasing the noble status of the estate's owner.

In the center of the lawn, a winding path led toward a distant fountain.

The water from the fountain cascaded gently, producing a pleasant sound that intertwined with the surrounding birdsong and the rustle of the wind to create a natural symphony.

Tall stone pillars supported a spacious corridor, the underside of which was carved with exquisite patterns that told ancient stories.

The windows were inlaid with stained glass; as sunlight filtered through, it cast a kaleidoscope of colorful light and shadow across the floor.

After the group entered the estate, Yuriko Takashiro summoned a butler and instructed him to lead everyone to the guest rooms.

Under the guidance of a maid, Lin Yi arrived at a guest room on the second floor.

As soon as he stepped inside, Lin Yi was drawn to the spacious and bright space.

The floor-to-ceiling windows ensured the room was flooded with light, offering an unobstructed view of the scenery outside—from the rolling mountains to the lush greenery of the garden.

The furniture in the room was made of dark solid wood, featuring a soft sheen and smooth lines that exuded a classical and elegant atmosphere.

An exquisite lamp sat on the nightstand, emitting a soft, warm glow that created a cozy ambiance for nighttime reading.

The maid bowed slightly to Lin Yi, indicating that if he had any issues, he could press the button on the nightstand, and someone would come to assist him.

【The Contractor has arrived at the "Patriotic Association" territory. The Faction Shop is now open.】

【Faction Shop opened. Current Contribution Points: 28,500.】

【Contractors may use Contribution Points to exchange for items at the Faction Shop.】

【As the "Patriotic Association" is an Order-Neutral faction, the initial favorability is set to "Respectful." Favorability can be increased through other missions.】

"Faction Shop?" Lin Yi studied the prompt appearing before his eyes.

As the largest power in this region, the "Patriotic Association" naturally possessed its own faction shop.

For a Contractor, this was undoubtedly an important way to acquire resources.

After joining the "Patriotic Association," Lin Yi could exchange for necessary supplies by accumulating contribution points.

The prompt explicitly stated that the Faction Shop was located in a warehouse near the estate, and the specific location was clearly projected into Lin Yi's mind.

As for how to obtain contribution points, the prompt provided a clear answer: killing infected.

Because of his previous experiences with Saya Takashiro, Lin Yi was considered a temporary member of the "Patriotic Association."

It was only after entering this territory controlled by the association that the contribution point system was officially activated.

Opening the wardrobe, Lin Yi found that the maid had already prepared several sets of clean and neat clothing, each appearing comfortable and appropriate.

Stripping off his bloodstained clothes, Lin Yi changed into a set of light blue casual wear.

Instantly, Lin Yi felt much more refreshed.

In the hall, Saya Takashiro was wearing a pink dress, covering her mouth as she chatted with Shizuka Kigurawa, every movement exuding the mannerisms of a young lady.

Saeko Busujima stood quietly to the side, dressed in a kimono, appearing elegant and dignified.

It was evident that since arriving at the estate, everyone's nerves had relaxed considerably.

"Yo, Lin Yi, you're finally out."

Seeing Lin Yi appear, Takashi Komuro and Haoyong Jing immediately approached him.

Haoyong Jing's right wrist was now fitted with an exquisite prosthetic limb that looked no different from a normal arm.

He smiled and showed his new "arm" to Lin Yi, his eyes filled with gratitude and relief.

"Yeah, I'm planning to go for a walk. Do you guys want to come out?" Lin Yi asked Takashi Komuro and Haoyong Jing.

"No, no, we're exhausted from these past few days," Takashi Komuro waved his hand, a hint of fatigue on his face. "I'm going to head to my room for a good sleep in a bit. We'll deal with whatever comes next after I wake up."

Haoyong Jing also nodded in agreement with Takashi.

The group had indeed experienced too many thrills and dangers over the past two days; their nerves had been constantly on edge, and they were all longing for some rest.

Seeing this, Lin Yi did not insist. "Alright, then get some good rest. I'll go wander around and check out the surroundings."

With that, Lin Yi turned and walked out of the hall.

The interior of the estate was bustling at this moment, with people coming and going like a busy little society.

In addition to the original estate staff, there were many members of the "Patriotic Association" and recently rescued survivors.

These people were busy transporting supplies, as they were in the early stages of the disaster outbreak and many things required urgent handling.

Their goal was clear: to move perishable supplies into the cellars as quickly as possible to extend their storage life.

The cellars were cool and dry, making them ideal places to store food and supplies.

The estate staff and some experienced survivors were directing everyone to carry out the transport work in an orderly fashion.

Some were carrying canned goods and dry rations, while others moved fruits and vegetables.

Following the guidance of the map in his mind, Lin Yi soon arrived near a warehouse in a corner of the estate.

This area was distinctly different from the rest of the estate; the atmosphere was more somber, and the security was much tighter.

Along the way, Lin Yi saw many security personnel holding weapons, their eyes scanning the surroundings vigilantly.

In the shadows, Lin Yi also felt several gun barrels aimed at him; these sentries had excellent concealment skills—had Lin Yi not been so perceptive, he might not have noticed them.

Arriving at the warehouse entrance, two guards blocked Lin Yi's path.

They pulled out a list, carefully comparing Lin Yi's appearance with the information on the roster.

Lin Yi knew this was to verify identities and prevent intruders from slipping in.

"Hmm, you're on the list," one of the guards nodded and said to Lin Yi, "Go in, but remember: don't move around aimlessly inside, and do not touch anything that doesn't belong to you."

Upon entering the warehouse, Lin Yi's senses were shocked by the sight before him.

The security here was far more stringent than he had imagined.

Dozens of heavily armed members were scattered in various corners of the warehouse, their gazes sharp, watching every person who entered like leopards.

As Lin Yi walked into the warehouse, these guards stood up one after another, gripping their weapons tightly, clearly entering a state of high alert.

Their eyes betrayed both vigilance and hostility.

A leader walked over, and only after carefully confirming Lin Yi's identity did the guards return to their concealed positions.

Their movements were swift and silent, as if they had undergone rigorous training.

Lin Yi couldn't help but marvel, "Man, the security is intense."

His sixth sense was also constantly warning him that this warehouse harbored many things capable of threatening him.

(End of Chapter)