The delegation from Central Base did not appear to be amused.
They had been led into the council chamber—a hardened hall that still retained the remnants of its former use as a municipal library. Bookshelves lined the walls, although the books had been long since replaced by ledgers of supplies, maps, and defensive strategies.
Xavier stood at the head of the table.
Alvin leaned against one side, arms crossed, observing everything with quiet intensity.
Natasha and Alex sat nearby, composed but alert. Daniel lingered just behind Xavier's shoulder, as if he were a sarcastic conscience.
The head of the delegation from Central Base—a woman named Commander Ilyse—placed a sealed box on the table.
"We did not come solely for the seismic irregularities," she said calmly. "There is another reason."
Xavier raised an eyebrow. "Continue."
Ilyse glanced at one of her fellow delegates before continuing.
"Our research division is working on a zombie vaccine."
The room fell silent.
