Chapter 007: Escape (I)
Once again, the binoculars were directed towards the Spring City, which was now in complete chaos. People were running about in a panic, and the number of soldiers on the streets had significantly decreased, likely having been reassigned to the front lines. The military was increasingly struggling to control the frantic crowds, sometimes resorting to firing shots to intimidate the panicked masses, and even resorting to lethal force. However, the effectiveness of these measures was diminishing.
"Out of the city?" Liu Qun, who was sitting on the sofa knitting, looked at Li Li, who was drenched in sweat, with confusion. She put down her yarn and walked to the coffee table to pour a glass of cool boiled water for Li Li
Mom and Dad, today I met Liu Long. His family received news that there will be an incident in Spring City, and they asked us to leave Spring City with them tonight. Li Li took the teacup that Liu Qun handed over, hurriedly took a big sip, and wiped the water stains from the corner of his mouth
Liu Long is the son of an official, and he has an older brother in the military, who is said to hold a minor official position. Therefore, Li Li pays great attention to Liu Long's words
At this moment, Li Li appeared more like a well-trained soldier, and his entire outfit was purchased online, which speaks volumes about the power of e-commerce platforms
Li Li lowered the binoculars and could see in the distance a group of soldiers desperately retreating towards the gate of Spring City. Further away from the soldiers, there were monsters the size of small cars charging towards them, occasionally pouncing on some of the soldiers at the back of the line. Those soldiers who were knocked down were quickly torn apart by these monsters
By evening, Liu Long did not wait for Li Li's arrival and, along with his parents, surged out of Spring City with the crowd, heading towards An City
Li Li turned the telescope towards the Forbidden Gate Pass fortress and saw soldiers standing at attention. The fortress was densely packed with dark gun barrels protruding from hidden fortifications, and cannon fire erupted from the Forbidden Gate, streaking across the long night sky, accurately landing among the advancing horde of monsters. In an instant, a vacuum zone was cleared from the horde, but it was quickly filled again, much like throwing a few stones into a river, creating several splashes that were instantly smoothed over by the water. The accurate strikes landed among the advancing horde of monsters, clearing a vacuum zone in an instant, but it was soon filled again, just like throwing a few stones into a river, creating several splashes that were instantly smoothed over by the water
... ...
"What trouble could arise? The government has instructed me to stay at home peacefully. Even if something happens, the military will protect us," Li Zhiguo said sternly, casting a severe glance at Li Li, his tone extremely serious.
Li Li did not explain, but simply said lightly: "Mom and Dad, it's about time. Please change into clothes and shoes that are suitable for running, as we are going to leave the city."
Upon hearing Liu Long's words, Li Li's anxiety intensified. He hurriedly ran towards home, needing to prepare for the evening's operation outside the city
I just went to find you with the librarian, and your parents said you went out to the street. I can't believe I ran into you here said Liu Long, running to Li Li's side, panting heavily.
After a short run of about ten minutes, Li Li returned home, pushed open the door, and walked into the living room, saying to Liu Qun and Li Zhiguo, who were sitting on the sofa: "Dad, Mom, please get ready; we are going out of town tonight"
"What are you going out of the city for?" Li Zhiguo frowned.
"What the hell do you know about the situation? My parents are planning to leave Spring City tonight. You should go home and prepare so that we can look out for each other," Liu Long said, casting an annoyed glance at Li Li. He then looked around and leaned closer to Li Li, whispering, "Li Li, I've received news that something significant might happen in Spring City in the next few days."
Rest assured, the number of guards at Longhu Bridge has decreased by more than half. Many bold individuals have rushed out, and the guards are turning a blind eye, as long as you do not attract too much attention" Liu Long replied confidently. In fact, this situation had already been noticed by the observant Li Li. Not to mention the relaxation of control, when Li Li went to observe Longhu Bridge earlier, he found that the two tanks at the bridgehead were missing, and there were only a few people present. The reason Li Li asked Liu Long was simply to obtain confirmation.
"This... this all belongs to our family..." Liu Qun looked reluctantly at the large and small bags of books and pictures, and a person who had been frugal all their life like Liu Qun could hardly bear to leave these things behind
In early summer, the Spring City enjoys a pleasant climate with exceptionally high visibility in the sky, although there are occasionally some dark clouds drifting above. On this day, Li Li, as usual, strolled through the streets to gather some information.
"Isn't it prohibited to leave the city? The Longhu Bridge is guarded by the military, so we can't get out either?" Although Li Li believed Liu Long's words, he said with a troubled expression.
Li Li's parents, hearing the increasingly clear sounds of gunfire, could not help but come to the balcony. Upon seeing Li Li's appearance, they were momentarily taken aback, but were quickly drawn to the chaotic crowd below. Upon witnessing the disorderly scene downstairs, Liu Qun and Li Zhiguo were instantly stunned; they had never encountered such a chaotic situation before
Tonight is destined to be a restless night, as the sound of gunfire began to faintly emerge at 3:00 AM, and once the gunfire started, it never ceased, becoming increasingly clear. By 6:00 AM, citizens near the restricted area of the Forbidden Gate could even hear a chilling roar that sent shivers down their spines
Li Li could already see through the telescope that occasionally a few creatures resembling bats appeared in the sky. He could even see their enormous mouths filled with silver-white teeth that emitted a cold gleam. He slightly moved the corner of his mouth and took a deep breath, quietly observing.
Alright, then let's meet at Longhu Square at 8 PM, avoiding the patrols. Once we are out of the city, my car is parked in the woods about two kilometers from the edge of the city. We will head to Anshi together at that time. Before Li Li could respond, Liu Long patted Li Li on the shoulder and ran off.
Li Li also knew that time was of the essence. With determination, he took his parents and headed downstairs. At that moment, he had no time to explain to them the importance of things and life, much like choosing between gold and food on a deserted island
At this moment, the sky gradually brightened. Unbeknownst to him, Li Li was standing on the balcony of his home on the sixth floor. He was dressed in a camouflage combat uniform, wearing a pair of high-durability field boots. On each of his calves, he had strapped a dark military dagger. He carried a field backpack, with a crossbow slung diagonally across the back and a quiver containing twenty arrows. Beside him lay a spear he had crafted from a steel rod a few days prior. He held a pair of binoculars, quietly observing the direction of the Forbidden Gate.
"Oh dear, I said Lao Li, if you are not leaving, then why are you yelling at your son?" Liu Qun said, placing her hands on her clothes, expressing her dissatisfaction.
Li Zhiguo continued, saying: "Even if something happens, if the military hands me a gun, despite my old age, I can still defend my home and country"
Moments later, as Li Li entered the living room, he was taken aback to see his parents packing up various bags. He then slowly said, "Mom and Dad, don't take anything; we will come back again. No one will take the things."
Li Li sighed softly; he was all too familiar with his father Li Zhiguo's temperament. Even on the way home, he had already anticipated that this would likely be the outcome. He said no more and walked towards his bedroom, closing the door behind him. He needed some quiet time to sort out his thoughts.
Li Li, Li Li... As Li Li was observing on the road, he suddenly recalled a familiar voice from behind. He saw a young man, short in stature, muscular, and with slightly dark skin, running towards him. The newcomer was none other than Liu Long, Li Li's childhood friend.
I came to the street to find out what was going on, what brings you to me?" Li Li looked at Liu Long, who was sweating profusely, with confusion. From Liu Long's demeanor, it seemed he had urgent matters to discuss with him
At this moment, Li Zhiguo and Liu Qun were completely stunned by the scene before them. They had been honest and straightforward individuals all their lives, and had never encountered such a situation. Instinctively, they nodded and went to the room to change into clothes and shoes as per Li Li's instructions
"Xiao Li, stop overthinking. These matters are not for you to worry about; listen to your father." Liu Qun quickly stepped in between the two to comfort Li Li, knowing well his partner's temperament, which was characterized by a strong sense of patriotism and a stubborn disposition.