第１１８７堀：一回戦その１ (Part2)
"It seems so. I see. So that’s how it works."
"In that case, it’s definitely worth picking up as many as we can. Ah, just a heads-up: you can only equip one of these shields at a time. Even if you hoard a bunch, using them one after another won't keep stacking the gauge, so be careful, Stasia."
"Understood. Then, let’s move on to explore the next house."
"Right."
And so, after Hiiro and the others finished searching all four houses...
"Surprisingly, we actually found quite a few weapons. All three of us managed to secure both a primary and a secondary."
Just as Stasia had said, luck was on their side; all three of them had successfully equipped themselves with primary and secondary arms. To be specific:
Jessica: Primary, Assault Rifle; Secondary, Handgun.
Stasia: Primary, Submachine Gun; Secondary, Shotgun.
Hiiro: Primary, Submachine Gun; Secondary, Handgun.
"We’re set for now, but I really want another assault rifle."
"True. This loadout is great for laying down suppressive fire, but it’s difficult to engage at long range."
"Indeed. Plus, we still need parts and medical supplies. After looting four houses, all we found was the shield Hiiro used and one spare."
"We did find plenty of ammo and gear that makes handling firearms easier, though."
That was true. While they lacked parts and recovery items, they had managed to stock up on ammunition and clothing. They had holsters to keep their sidearms within easy reach, and gloves that might help dampen the recoil of their weapons.
"So, what’s the plan now? It doesn't look like this area is going to be part of the next combat zone."
"That is the question."
"For now, let’s check the map and determine our next move."
Gathering around a table, the group examined the map.
"First, our current position: we’re here, in this cluster of houses to the east of the central town. As for the next combat zone, it’s centered around this town to the northeast."
They said "to the east of the central town," but they were so far away that the town wasn't even visible from where they stood. As for how they would proceed...
"Hiiro still wants to scavenge for more gear, so I’d prefer somewhere with more buildings."
"I agree with Hiiro. Jessica, what do you think?"
"I feel the same. I’m still uneasy with our current supplies. If that’s the case, regarding our next destination—since the combat zone is shifting east, teams in the west will likely be scrambling to move. It’s also possible that teams currently in the central town will head east, so... how about here?"
Jessica pointed to a location as far from the central town as their current position, featuring a similar cluster of buildings.
"Hmm. Is the town to the northeast too dangerous?"
"It’s hard to say. Being a town, it has many buildings, which means other teams might be aiming for it. Conversely, they might be just as cautious as we are and avoiding it. My suggestion is to head toward that town, but prioritize scavenging the houses along the way. What do you think?"
"Hiiro thinks that’s a good idea. If we go straight to the town, other teams will gather there, and we’ll end up fighting over the supplies."
"True. In that case, it’s safer to collect gear in a place with only a few houses. If there are enemies, we’ll be able to spot them much more easily."
"Then, since the plan is set, let’s get moving. We’ll take the route through the forest. Moving through open ground would make us too easy to spot."
Nodding at Jessica’s suggestion, Hiiro and the others left the house and began their trek. Hiiro scanned the surroundings, but there was no sign of anyone. It seemed safe for the moment.
Just as that thought crossed her mind...
*Bang...*
A gunshot echoed from behind them. Hiiro and the others spun around in a panic, but the building they had just exited blocked their view of what lay beyond.
"It’s alright. They were likely targeting another team. The sound was distant, and judging by the direction, they aren't aiming for us right now. Still, we shouldn't linger. Let’s move quickly."
"Agreed. Hiiro, we’re going to pick up the pace—are you alright with that?"
"Yeah. Hiiro is fine."
With that, Hiiro and her companions slipped through the forest, heading toward the next set of buildings.
Now, a quick question: would you like to see every match in detail, or would you prefer a digest version?