After much deliberation, Lydia eventually resolved to assist Phoenix. Her strong moral values and conscience initially deterred her from engaging in any ignoble acts. However, she viewed the neighbors' envious intentions to rob Phoenix as an even greater wrongdoing, leading her to side with him.
Phoenix set clear terms for their collaboration. "Well then, I want to see your useful information first," he stated firmly. "Next, it can depend on your performance, oh!"
Lydia, who possessed a blend of kindness and astuteness, grasped the gravity of the situation. "Well, I understand," she acknowledged, knowing all too well that expecting unconditional aid from Phoenix was unrealistic.
Their conversation marked the end of their exchange for the moment. Phoenix then turned his attention to his inundated phone, bombarded by over 99+ messages, many filled with impatient and hostile demands. "Phoenix, where did you go? Are you going to hand over your supplies or not?" one message aggressively inquired.
With a cold, mocking smile, Phoenix retorted with dismissive contempt: "Go eat shit!"
His response triggered a storm of curses and hateful words in the group chat. Phoenix, however, remained unfazed and prepared to face any threat head-on. His experience in dealing with life-threatening situations had steeled him, leaving him unburdened by the prospect of further conflict.
As the threats in the chat began to wane, Phoenix deduced that the group was likely conspiring against him in a separate chat. Despite his home being a secure fortress, the idea of facing a mob attack brought a mix of anxiety and adrenaline. He felt both nervous and excited about the confrontation.
Preparing for the looming attack, Phoenix readied his extensive arsenal: crossbows, compound bows, arrows, and various other weapons. He also had defensive equipment like anti-wolf spray, electric batons, and homemade incendiaries. His eyes gleamed with a steely resolve as he braced for the assault.
Elsewhere, the neighbors, infuriated by Phoenix's refusal to share his supplies, convened in a new chat without him, spearheaded by Sun and Alexander. Alexander, having previously suffered a defeat at Phoenix's hands, proposed an assault on Phoenix's home, offering to split the spoils. Despite Alexander's tactical advantage of owning a firearm, the group, blinded by jealousy and desperation, agreed to the plan.
The mob's agenda was clear: storm Phoenix's home and seize his supplies. Even those who had been amicable towards Phoenix in the past set aside their former relations, driven by the primal urge to survive.
Meanwhile, Phoenix was calmly preparing his defenses. A seasoned shooter from his time at a shooting club, he felt confident in his ability to repel the attack. Amidst his preparations, a message from Lydia arrived, warning him about the imminent assault. Phoenix responded with a simple acknowledgment, advising her to stay away from the conflict.
Lydia, wrapped in quilts in her home, pondered over Phoenix's assured demeanor. She viewed his situation as perilous against such overwhelming odds. Nevertheless, Phoenix's reply was enigmatic and foreboding: "Then, wait for the show!"
Despite her apprehensions, Lydia chose to adhere to her moral principles. She decided not to join the mob in their assault on Phoenix's home. Her choice reflected her commitment to integrity, refusing to participate in what she considered a morally reprehensible act against Phoenix or any other neighbor.