Chapter 395 - 28: Killing the Patrol Team

Chapter 395: Chapter 28: Killing the Patrol Team

With the continuous exploration and application of ancient technology, life for the people of the shelter gradually improved. Their weapons grew more advanced, their defenses more robust, and their energy supply more stable. New technologies were integrated into daily life, providing reliable lighting and efficient equipment, and further upgrades to defensive weaponry bolstered the shelter’s security, giving the residents a greater sense of peace. Meanwhile, Bena and his patrol team grew stronger with each expedition, laying a solid foundation for the shelter’s future. They believed that as long as they remained united and diligent, they could build a better world in this wasteland.

After a brief period of rest, Bena’s patrol team received a new mission. Based on the research team’s analysis of an ancient map, they had discovered a location suspected to be the core area of an ancient civilization—a place that could hide even more astonishing secrets and powerful technologies. The mission was fraught with challenges, but the team members’ eyes shone with anticipation and resolve.

On the eve of departure, Ye Yun and Bena spoke at length in the command center.

"Bena, this mission is incredibly important. We know very little about that area, but it could be the key to changing our fate," Ye Yun said, his expression grave.

"I understand, Ye Yun. We’ll give it our all and live up to everyone’s expectations," Bena replied resolutely.

"Be safe out there. If you run into danger, don’t try to force a fight. You are all precious to the shelter, and I want every one of you to come back alive," Ye Yun added, his voice filled with concern.

"Don’t worry. We’ll be careful," Bena said, nodding.

The next morning, the patrol team departed at dawn. Carrying ample equipment and supplies, they embarked on a journey into the unknown. Along the way, they traversed treacherous mountains, turbulent rivers, and dense jungles. Though the path was arduous, the team members supported one another, and not a single person complained.

After several weeks of arduous trekking, they finally neared the target area. Before them lay a magnificent complex of buildings. Though worn by the ages, its former splendor was still evident. Soaring towers, broad plazas, and intricate passageways left them in awe.

"Stay sharp, everyone. There could be dangers here we can’t even imagine," Bena said warily.

The team members cautiously entered the complex and began their exploration. They discovered the architectural style and technology here far surpassed anything they had seen before. Mysterious crystals, embedded in the walls, emitted a soft glow.

"These crystals must have some special purpose. We need to be careful while we study them," Bena said.

They pressed deeper, discovering a massive console in the center of a grand hall. The console was covered with all kinds of buttons and display screens, though most were damaged.

"This could be the key piece of equipment that controls this entire complex. Let’s see if we can find a way to repair it," Bena said.

The team began to inspect the console carefully, searching for clues. Just then, a low rumbling sound echoed from the distance, and the ground began to tremble faintly.

"Trouble. Something’s coming," Bena said, suddenly on high alert.

The team members quickly raised their weapons, preparing for the impending danger. As the rumbling grew louder, a group of massive mechanical guards emerged from the darkness. The guards were constructed entirely of metal that glinted with a cold light, and they wielded powerful weapons.

"Engage!" Bena roared.

The team immediately scattered, engaging the mechanical guards in a fierce firefight. The guards’ attacks were incredibly powerful. Their weapons fired potent energy beams, putting the patrol under immense pressure.

"Find their weak points!" Bena yelled, dodging an attack.

As they fought, the team members observed the guards’ movements and noticed their joints appeared to be vulnerable. They focused their fire on these points, gradually gaining an advantage.

In the heat of the battle, a team member was struck by one of the guards and collapsed, wounded.

"Cover him!" Bena shouted.

Other team members immediately rushed over and dragged their injured comrade to safety. Bena led the rest of the team in continuing the fight. Through sheer willpower and seamless teamwork, they gradually began to repel the mechanical guards.

"Everyone, check your wounds. Let’s see if we can still press on," Bena said.

The team members quickly patched up their wounds. Though several were injured, they could all still carry on.

"We can’t give up. Let’s keep moving," Bena encouraged them.

They continued their search in the hall and finally discovered a hidden room behind the console. Inside were several ancient documents and an object resembling a core chip.

"These documents and this chip... this might be the key discovery of our entire expedition," Bena said excitedly.

The team carefully collected the documents and the chip, preparing to bring them back to the shelter. Just as they were about to leave, the entire complex began to shake violently, as if it was about to collapse.

"It’s coming down! Everyone, move, now!" Bena yelled.

The team sprinted for the exit, managing to escape just moments before the structure completely collapsed behind them.