My 100th Rebirth a day before the Apocalypse novel Chapter 48

Seeing that Kisha remained unaffected by the emotional approach, he grew angry. "Are you so heartless that you won’t even consider the well-being of the younger ones?"

Unmoved, Kisha responded, "Even banks require collateral for loans. Why should we be any different? You’re borrowing perishable supplies. How can we ensure we’ll get them back afterward?" Her demeanor was cold and intimidating, leaving the old man unable to argue, knowing he had no intention of returning anything.

"Can’t we simply collaborate and support each other, especially in times of need?" _{freēwēbnovel.com}

"Collaboration implies mutual effort, not a one-way street where you stand back expecting protection," Kisha retorted, disdain evident in her tone as she observed the man’s attempt to rally others against her group.

Understanding her implication, the old man reacted as though she had trodden on his toes and shouted, "What do you mean?! We’re civilians, so it’s only right for us to be protected! That’s what our taxes are for!"

Taken aback by this statement, Fred found himself grappling with a maelstrom of emotions. It was an undeniable truth that individuals like him, serving in the government, bore the responsibility of safeguarding their citizens and nation from any threat, including the peril staring them in the face. It was a pledge they had solemnly undertaken upon joining their sector.

The words struck Fred like a sudden blow, causing a wave of conflicting emotions to surge within him. While he acknowledged the truth in the man’s statement, it nevertheless felt like a sharp sting—a subtle reminder of the sacrifices made by his fallen comrades. It was a sobering realization that their tireless dedication was sometimes overlooked or taken for granted.

Unsure if it was the weight of grief or mounting stress that fueled his emotional response, Fred couldn’t shake the feeling of unease settling in the pit of his stomach.

Kisha noticed the subtle shift in Fred’s expression, and a smirk tugged at her lips. She had deliberately provoked the old man to ensure Fred fully grasped the gravity of the situation, urging him not to be blinded by his solemn pledge alone.

Understanding that mere words might not suffice, Kisha believed it was imperative for Fred to witness firsthand what was truly at stake.

Certainly, Kisha wasn’t one to waste her time on frivolous matters. This morning, however, she had taken a moment to assess Fred and the others’ status windows, and to her surprise, she discovered some promising developments. Additionally, she noticed a subtle shift in the data provided by her ’Eye of Truth’ gift, revealing new insights into the moral inclinations of those around her.

It appeared that her ’Eye of Truth’ gift was of the growth type, a revelation that intrigued Kisha. While its future potential remained uncertain, she recognized its current value as incredibly significant. Furthermore, she speculated that if she could access more detailed information about specific individuals, the gift would prove even more invaluable.

As she observed the situation, Kisha discerned the old man’s position firmly entrenched within the "unjust factor" of the scale, contrasting sharply with Fred and the woman with the baby, firmly placed within the "just factor." Recognizing the potential and value represented by individuals with commendable gifts and talents, she deemed it a waste to allow a promising seedling to wither away, particularly when their contributions could be beneficial.

"Those ready to showcase their skills and take up frontline duties will be rewarded with food. How about that?" Kisha reiterated her proposal.

"Impossible! Have you not heard a word I said?" The old man protested.

Even Fred intervened, expressing his concerns. "Kisha, I believe that’s too extreme."

Kisha simply shrugged and replied, her voice carrying enough weight to reach everyone’s ears. "In these times, Fred, you can’t protect everyone."

"Are you suggesting he abandons us to fend for ourselves?!" The old man exclaimed, his voice betraying a mix of indignation and fear.