Chef in the Apocalypse

Chapter 69: Bastion (2)

As they reached the heart of the town, the scene before them was one of organized chaos. The large three-story building, standing prominently to the north, appeared to be the center of activity. Its imposing presence against the backdrop of the mountains gave it an air of authority. But beyond this building, the town bore scars of its recent struggles.

Only two other structures stood relatively unscathed amidst the devastation. People worked tirelessly to clear debris and erect new structures using timber and determination. It was a testament to their resilience that they were adapting so swiftly to a life without the convenience of electric tools.

Jayce marveled inwardly at their resourcefulness, realizing how the sudden loss of modern technology had forced people to rely on more traditional methods. The town was like a phoenix, rising from the ashes of its former self. He could understand why this would eventually become the largest township on the Asian continent.

Dion led the way into the three-story building, its façade reminiscent of an old government agency. The large wooden doors swung open with a creak, revealing a marbled floor that stretched the length of the spacious lobby. Despite the grandeur, Jayce couldn’t help but notice the empty reception desk at the end of the room, a stark reminder of the world’s changed circumstances. The floor area of this lobby was even larger than the nightclub they had used as a shelter for all those weeks.

Dion turned to Jayce, his tone indicating a need for a decision. “Your friends will need to stay here while we go up to meet the others,” he stated with authority.

Colin, never one to shy away, stepped forward with an imposing stance. “I’m not letting you take him up there alone,” he declared, not allowing for a discussion.

A soft chuckle escaped Jayce’s lips as he looked at Dion. “Seems like I’ve got a self-appointed bodyguard,” he remarked, an amused glint in his eyes. He turned to Dion, seeking his approval. “Do you mind if my vigilant protector accompanies us?”

Dion thought for a moment, before nodding “But no one else.” With that, the trio began their ascent, bypassing the second floor and making their way to the top. Jayce was interested in who else made up the upper echelon of Bastion as he only knew of Dion.

The ascent up the stairs brought them to the top floor of the building, revealing an unexpected sight. Instead of the stuffy government chambers Jayce had envisioned, the top floor resembled an open-plan office with an air of practicality. The clutter of abandoned office equipment had been cleared out, replaced by a large table that occupied the center of the room. The hum of fluorescent lights and the click of keyboards had long since been replaced by silence, making the transformation of this space all the more striking.

As Jayce and his companions entered the room, they were greeted by the figures seated at the table. Two men and a woman stood up as a sign of respect, acknowledging the newcomers’ presence. It was a courtesy that Jayce appreciated in this changed world, a display of formalities amidst the chaos.

Dion took the lead in introducing them, and with his words, the identities of the trio at the table began to take shape.

Leon, adorned in the attire of a seasoned swordsman, exuded an air of quiet confidence. His eyes held a steadfast determination, a mirror to his dedication to his role in this new world. He bore a rugged handsomeness, with short-cropped hair that seemed to echo his practical nature.

Juliet, dressed in robes that radiated an aura of fiery magic, held herself with a vibrant energy. Her eyes sparkled with intellect, a testament to her command over arcane arts. Though her attire hinted at the intensity of her powers, her smile softened her features, making her presence inviting and warm.

Kane, in his suited attire, was a stark contrast to the others. His choice of clothing spoke of a different time, a nod to a world left behind. His neatly groomed appearance and sharp gaze gave him an air of authority, a characteristic befitting someone accustomed to leading and managing.

Dion gestured towards Jayce and Colin, the pride in his voice unmistakable as he emphasized, “These are the individuals who vanquished the High Troll.” The trio at the table, looked over in shock, however it was quickly replaced with a newfound respect.

Kane, the one who seemed to hold the mantle of leadership among them, extended a gracious invitation. “Please, have a seat. We have matters of importance to discuss.”

Jayce and Colin accepted the offer, taking their seats with a sense of anticipation. They listened attentively as Kane approached the front of the room, where a map of the city and its surroundings had been laid out. The map, a relic from a time before the apocalypse, depicted the town and the surrounding landscape, with the craggy mountains forming a protective barrier.

Kane began to detail their vision for the city, speaking with the authority of an engineer who had spent years in the civil industry. Jayce immediately recognized the man’s value, understanding that Kane might have played a pivotal role in Bastion’s success.

As Kane explained their aspirations for the city, Jayce couldn’t help but admire the scope of their ambition. He raised a question, “But what is your ultimate goal in building this city?”

Juliet, her eyes filled with determination, responded swiftly, “Isn’t it obvious? To provide a safe haven and equity to a broken world.”

Leon nodded in agreement and added, “Not everyone is suited to fight and survive on the outside.” His gaze briefly shifted to Kane, their unspoken understanding apparent. “After all, not everyone specializes in combat.”

Jayce chuckled at the irony of the situation, but he quickly realized the potential offense his laugh might have caused. “I mean no offense,” he hastily added. “Speaking of non-combat classes, do you see what I’m wearing?” Jayce pointed to his chef hat and jacket.

Dion’s eyes lit up, he had forgotten that Jayce’s class was Chef. All of his accolades were too numerous to be considered a fluke, meaning that his power was not unfounded. Killing the High troll, Goblin Shaman and Bloodfang Alpha Wolf bosses were feats that he could not even dream of, let alone completing the World Quest in such a short amount of time.

Doing all of this while being considered a non-combat class… He quietly wondered what kind of feats Jayce would have accomplished if he was another class, almost shuddering at the thought. This made him look at the number 1 supporter in a new light.

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