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🕑 Added 2025-06-27 23:13:50 +0000 UTCA New Beginning From the End of the World
Chapter 196 – Another Plan
Just as Jason’s team was heading out to Texas after receiving the alert, the central base in Atlanta was already busy, even before contact had been made to occupy a military base.
The process of creating a postwar report on the battle against the walker horde took a week. This time, nearly all members of the central base, along with support from the expansion base at Georgia Tech, mobilized and eventually managed to stop the massive horde.
After finishing the report, Guillermo voiced serious concern over the massive ammunition expenditure. With over 600 people firing, it was estimated that at least 100,000 rounds had been used, including ammo from tank machine guns, Humvees, outposts, and the walls—not to mention mortar shells.
Although the crops were saved, the situation left Guillermo deeply worried. It’s worth noting that more than 100,000 rounds amounted to nearly one-third of the central base’s entire stockpile.
Even if some of the spent cartridges and equipment could be recovered, it wouldn’t be enough if ammo continued to be used at this rate. Other bases were also experiencing high consumption, making it harder now to receive reinforcements.
Rick sighed in frustration. There was no way to avoid that confrontation; the horde had been too large, the crops too exposed, and there was no time to prepare due to the lack of scouts.
The loss wasn’t just in ammunition, but in other resources as well. It had been a painful blow.
"Guillermo, don’t worry so much. We still have Richard. Don’t forget that he took control of the ammunition factory and has sent several important reports to Shane regarding weapons. And once things stabilize at the prison, we could even set up a basic weapons factory right here at the central base."
Rick thought of the old man Jason had found. According to what they’d heard, he was fully willing to cooperate with the base to manufacture weapons, ammunition, and armored vehicles.
Guillermo couldn’t grieve forever. Even though his work was tied to logistics and resource management—and he knew there were ways to manufacture more ammo—seeing so much used in a single battle caused him real distress. However, Rick’s ideas were reasonable, so he decided to set those worries aside.
Rick took a breath and looked at the people gathered. Since Jason had taken several of the main leaders with him, Rick now had to appoint new ones, including Mike—one of Jason’s most trusted men—as well as Jim, Daniel, and others known for their loyalty.
Even though much ammunition had been used over the last few days, many people were now motivated by an inner fear, working with greater dedication. Everyone felt lucky to be part of this community, and there was even an increase in applications to become soldiers.
Carol, who had recently welcomed Tara, along with Andrea, Amy, Oscar, and many others, had begun to stand out for their efforts to improve. Because of this, Rick planned to trust them more and allow them to begin missions outside the base.
The first half of the meeting ended with the postwar summary. Rick took out a document he had prepared in advance and told everyone:
"Next, I’ll be outlining our tasks for the next six months."
Everyone sat up attentively. Not only were the usual people present, but also key members of the base, advisors, and second-in-commands of many leaders still away. By speaking to them, Rick could communicate with the entire base without needing to gather everyone in one place.
He picked up the report and began reading it line by line.
"In the next six months, we’ll face a heavy workload. Jason previously worked on this plan and gave it to me before leaving. He even discussed the details with Shane and others. Now I’ll share the final arrangements."
Rick raised his eyebrows and stroked his beard before continuing:
"First, we must upgrade the base’s security system. Even though we’re hidden, more and more people are arriving from Atlanta. It’s said that a vaccine is now being mass-produced that prevents someone from turning into a walker if they die of natural causes and their brain isn’t damaged."
"But a bite or a scratch will still affect us, so we’ll establish checkpoints at all entrances and exits. An infection containment team will be created, and children will be trained to eliminate walkers if necessary. Some buildings will be set up outside the central zone, and most of the staff will be relocated there, leaving the central area for more delicate matters."
"Second, the outer wall. Guillermo will need to push hard and work overtime to build it. Shane will send additional personnel to help. We don’t know when the next horde might come, but when it does, the outer wall will be critical."
Guillermo nodded, fully understanding the gravity of the task.
Rick continued: "We must design an area for the horses, add more wells outside the second wall, and install solar panels. According to the architect, the structures must be designed systematically to protect the heart of the base."
"Third point: we must explore the Atlanta port as soon as possible. There are materials stored in containers. Shane needs those containers to seal off the territory in Georgia. Some might be damaged, but many are still useful."
"There are also nearby military bases that could be hiding supplies. We have experienced soldiers and knowledge of the area. We can’t ignore those places!"
"Fourth point: as the population continues to grow, we need to expand our infrastructure. The greenhouse must be enlarged, new species planted, even fruit trees. Hershel, your experience is critical here. We’ll increase exploration in this area."
"Fifth point..."
Rick kept assigning tasks. Some had already been discussed with key leaders, and now he was detailing everything.
According to some books Jason left behind, a group was assigned to train as blacksmiths and carpenters.
The search for materials to manufacture ammunition also had to be expanded to reduce dependence on Atlanta, focusing on collecting lead, gunpowder, and other resources.
Everything Jason left was a semi-finished plan. Over the six months he’d be away, Rick had to refine it into something fully operational.
The process would take more than half a year, but Rick was determined to move forward as much as possible.
Two consecutive walker attacks had left him with a deep sense of urgency. He couldn’t imagine what would happen if another horde came now. He wasn’t going to take that risk, so he initiated multiple preparations: continuing to clear nearby forests, crafting walker masks, establishing exterior outposts, and more.
In the days that followed, his heart remained heavy with worry as the outer walls gradually took shape. Though they weren’t as sturdy as the inner wall yet, they were taller and more solid. With strong foundations and following Jason’s plan, the third wall to be built later would be the strongest of all.
At least now, Rick wouldn’t have to worry if another horde like the last one returned. This wall could withstand a massive attack. With watchtowers, it looked like this place was turning into a war fortress—an imposing structure designed to withstand the unthinkable.
With the development of the base in full swing, Rick finally felt some relief. The next step was to collect more materials.
…
One month later.
Rick woke up very early and went to the base cafeteria. By that time, many people were already having breakfast.
That day, a major operation was scheduled. Jason had contacted the central base and ordered them to secure a base to send planes with resources and survivors. Rick had organized a cleanup operation at a fairly large military base not far away.
So Rick had agreed. And the reason he got up so early was to take control of that base.
"Rick, over here!"
Mike was in a corner of the dining hall having breakfast. In front of him was another plate—clearly Rick’s.
Rick approached with a smile. Mike always got up early and prepared his meal.
While eating, Rick said, "Mike, this time you're not coming with me. I’ll lead the team, and you’ll stay here, making sure everything runs smoothly."
"This mission is dangerous, Rick. You could run into soldiers... You shouldn’t go alone."
Rick shook his head and pointed: "I’m not going alone. I’m taking plenty of people this time. You just focus on keeping this base safe. I’ll feel more at ease knowing you’re here."
