Chapter 29 – The Name on the Podium
Dawn had just broken when more than a hundred people gathered in the military base's wide courtyard. Beneath the pale sky and biting morning air, they stood in lines—some clad in full combat gear, others still adjusting weapons on their shoulders or armor on their arms.
Sofia stood with her team, her heart beating faster than usual. Around them, teams from various military units and specialized survivors stood in formation. Some faces she recognized, most she didn't. But there was one thing they all shared: eyes filled with determination... and tension.
The atmosphere abruptly silenced as General Reinhart climbed the podium made from stacked metal containers. The silver-haired old man wore his signature combat coat, with his rank and the national emblem displayed clearly on his chest. His voice rang out, amplified by the loudspeakers.
"Soldiers and Awakened," Reinhart began, looking at each of them one by one. "Today, we mark the beginning of the Rank 3 Hunt."
There was no applause. Only the morning wind and the creak of weapons being readied were heard. This was no celebration—to this battle.
"Eleven dangerous entities are out there," Reinhart continued. "Each one has the ability to destroy this base in minutes if they so choose. We cannot wait for them to strike first. So today... we hunt them."
He pointed to a large screen hanging beside the stage. A list appeared on the screen : Rank 3 Zombies – Tyrant, Tank, Witch, Hunter, Licker, and the Last.
"Queen," Reinhart said flatly. "The final subject... remains untraceable. After last week's attack, she vanished. We don't know if she's dead, hiding, or... watching us from afar. For now, she is excluded from the hunt."
Sofia bowed her head slightly, unease creeping into her chest. She knew who he meant. where are you now?