Chapter 55 - 51
As the convoy slowly came to a halt, civilians and soldiers alike disembarked from the vehicles, once again finding themselves in a brand new small town. Except for a few new survivors, everyone else felt a sense of déjà vu.
Following the same procedure as last night's operation, soldiers stationed sentries around the town's perimeter and intersections, ensuring the streetlights were powered to illuminate the area.
Meanwhile, civilians cooperated as usual, clearing the designated residential areas, transporting food, making fires for warmth, and now, they had an additional task of clearing the snow from the streets. Given the recent trend of snowfall, it was evident that if they didn't clear it soon, by early morning, the snow would likely be too thick to pass through. And, in order not to impede any possible emergency evacuations that might occur at any moment, they had to be prepared in advance to avoid any potential accidents.
Rubbing his stiff, frozen hands, Brian queued up outside the supply distribution point. He couldn't help but notice the sudden generosity of the adults around him upon seeing him, a child. They kindly made way for him, but Brian didn't feel particularly moved; instead, he felt a strange sense of unease. Perhaps he was becoming too cynical, no longer believing in the inherent goodness of humanity?
As people willingly made space for him, he quickly reached the front of the line. It turned out the soldier distributing food at his assigned vehicle was Tracy.
Handing over his and Sarah's ID cards, Brian gestured with his hands, saying, "Sis, I'm collecting supplies for two."
Tracy took the ID cards and glanced at them. Looking at the young Asian boy in front of her, she felt a strange familiarity, which clicked when she saw the other ID card. These were the two children she was responsible for on the bus.
Recalling that the data had indicated these two children were unaccompanied, Tracy couldn't help but feel a tug at her heartstrings. She pondered whether she should take some time to check on the children on the bus who didn't have adults accompanying them.
"Here you go."
Handing back the ID cards, Tracy retrieved two portions of packaged food supplies and handed them to Brian. After ensuring he packed them properly, she also took two bowls from him, scooped some soup into them, and returned them.
"Thank you."