As Chuchan lost consciousness, the vines that had tightly bound Jack seemed to lose their vitality in an instant, slowly withering and eventually scattering on the dusty ground. Sensing the disappearance of the restraint, Jack quickly exerted force to tear apart the last few coils of vines still wrapped around his neck, deeply inhaling a breath of freedom. After these long and perilous days, he finally had the opportunity to reunite with his loyal Steel Bone Wild Dog companions.
Freed Jack joyfully embraced the group of dogs, sharing the long-lost intimacy and warmth. Ah Mao, the Dobermann who served as the leader of the pack, was particularly excited, running around Jack in his unique way to express his welcome and joy. In this moment, Jack felt a deep sense of happiness and fulfillment, as all the hardship and sacrifice had been rewarded.
After two days of separation and continuous battles, Jack can finally spend time with his loyal companions. The emotional bond between them has become stronger. In this dangerous and uncertain post-apocalyptic world, this reunion moment makes Jack feel that all the efforts are worth it. To him, these Steel Bone Wild Dogs are not just companions, but also his family in this desolate world, and the motivation for him to keep fighting and surviving.
The dogs wag their tails, happily jumping around Jack, vying for his touch and attention. But this heartwarming scene is soon interrupted by a clear sound of footsteps, gradually approaching. Vivian, with determined steps, walks from the nearby ruins, her expression difficult to read, instantly tensing the atmosphere.
The dogs immediately showed their alertness, instinctively sensing a potential threat. They stopped playing, tensed their bodies, and stared at the unexpected visitor. Jack sensed the dogs' tension and immediately stepped forward as their protector and leader, standing in front of the group of dogs, using his body as a shield, signaling the dogs to step back to avoid a potential conflict.
Vivian slowed her pace, her gaze shifting between Jack and the loyal dogs, seemingly weighing and considering the next course of action. There was a palpable sense of unknown tension in the air, waiting for the next moment to unfold.
Jack stared directly at Vivian, his eyes firm and filled with challenge. His voice echoed through the ruins, carrying an undeniable strength. "Do you still want to fight? Your two henchmen are already out of commission, one of them even buried in the wreckage..." Jack's words were direct and sharp, his gaze piercing through Vivian's defenses, attempting to make her realize the futility of this battle.
He continued, his voice carrying a subtle but unmistakable sense of sorrow, "If we continue fighting, we both will end up worse off. Even if you defeat me, your henchman will only end up crushed by the house." These words were not just a warning to Vivian, but also a profound reflection on the senselessness of this conflict.
Vivian's gaze wandered between Jack and the surrounding environment, silently weighing every possible outcome in her mind. She knew well that every battle consumed her strength and resources, and the man before her, though an enemy, displayed remarkable abilities and resilience. In this post-apocalyptic world, powerful allies were invaluable.
Vivian's thoughts raced as she began to consider an option she had never truly contemplated before—cooperating with Jack. Despite their obvious adversarial relationship, if they could temporarily set aside their differences to face a greater threat or achieve certain goals together, such a strategy might bring unexpected benefits to both sides.
"Perhaps," Vivian thought to herself, "in this chaotic world, the enemy of my enemy could become a friend." She carefully observed Jack's expression and posture, trying to discern if he had the potential to become a partner. At this moment, she was no longer just a determined warrior ready to fight to the end, but a strategist seeking survival and victory, considering every move as in a game of chess.
Upon hearing Vivian's words, Jack laughed incredulously and said, "Hey! I told you before, I'm not joining you guys, so save your breath." Vivian smiled mysteriously, helped Chuchan up from the ground and let him lean against the nearby pool, and said, "I assure you... I can offer you a good deal, it's about Paradise Town."
Jack's smile froze at the moment Vivian mentioned Paradise Town. His gaze suddenly became sharp, staring at Vivian like a blade, the disbelief gradually transforming into a pensive expression. Paradise Town—the place he had always wanted to find. If Vivian really had information about it, then perhaps this so-called deal was worth listening to.
Vivian nodded to confirm the location, her expression turning serious. "Yes, Paradise Town," she said slowly as she walked towards Jack, each step appearing cautious and deliberate. "I know you have your own plans and purposes for Paradise Town, and I have my own needs. There might be a mutually beneficial opportunity between us."
Jack's expression became complicated. From Vivian's words, he felt a possibility he had never felt before. Paradise Town was not just a destination for him, but also a symbol of hope, a place where a new beginning might be possible. If Vivian really had important information about Paradise Town, then perhaps such a trade was worth considering.
"What kind of trade?" Jack asked, his tone revealing both distrust and a hint of anticipation.
Vivian glanced at the still dazed Chuchan leaning by the pool, then turned back to Jack, took a deep breath, and prepared to present her proposal. She knew that this conversation could change their relationship and even affect the future direction of the entire Rado City.
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