Chapter 53: Plant Type Mutant
"Put on the MV-02W. Replenish ammo. System self-test completed."
Zack ticked off the mental checklist as he readied himself. The battle-scarred War Machine stood waiting in the corner, its iron-black paint scraped and worn from countless battles. The damage only added to its brutal, unforgiving appearance, each scar telling a story of survival and war.
After securing his armor, Zack stepped out of the Mansion, the heavy thuds of his metallic boots echoing against the walls.
"Brother, are you heading out? Do you need me to come with you?" Little Annie emerged from the laboratory, her hands smudged with grease and her eyes wide with curiosity.
"No, just keep an eye on your sister Sophia. Make sure she doesn't wander off." Zack's voice was calm as he flicked up his mask, flashing a rare, teasing smile at Annie.
"Alright." Annie nodded obediently and trotted upstairs, leaving Zack to his mission.
He exited the Mansion and was about to take off when a thought struck him. Turning abruptly, he walked toward the swimming pool. The heavy footsteps of the Armor stirred Erza from her sunbathing on a lounge chair. She sat up groggily, her face scrunching in confusion. "Another wave of zombies?!" Erza blurted, already tense.
"No," Zack replied flatly. "You're coming with me."
His tone was casual, but the unyielding authority behind it left no room for argument. "Do I get a choice in this?" Erza tried, her voice tinged with hope.
"I wasn't asking."
Without waiting for her reply, Zack turned and headed for the helicopter. Erza groaned but followed reluctantly, muttering complaints under her breath. As they boarded, Erza sighed dramatically. "Why a helicopter? Can't you just fly with that armor of yours?"