Chương 189: 171. Yangtze and Captain Zao

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Slowly, the team rowed closer, their eyes scanning every inch of the submarine for signs of movement or activity. The hull was silent, giving nothing away about what might lie within.

As the team rowed closer to the submarine, the scale of the vessel became more imposing. The weathered and barnacle-encrusted hull bore silent witness to decades submerged in the murky depths of Boston Harbor. Sico directed the boat to a gentle stop alongside the submarine, where they noticed an access hatch, partially hidden by seaweed and marine growth.

Preston pointed to the hatch, his voice low.

Preston: "Looks like our way in. We should clear the hatch and see if it's operable."

Nora nodded, pulling a pair of heavy-duty gloves from her pack.

Nora: "Let's be careful. No telling what condition that seal is in after all these years."

The team worked together to clear the hatch of seaweed, using tools from their boat to scrape away the marine growth that had fused around the edges. After several minutes of careful work, the hatch was clear enough to attempt opening.

Sico tested the wheel on the hatch. Surprisingly, it turned with a groan, the seal breaking with a hiss as air escaped, indicating that the submarine was not entirely flooded and might still have air pockets inside.

With the hatch cleared and slightly ajar, Sico gripped the wheel firmly, applying more force. With a final creak and groan from the rusty mechanism, the hatch swung open, revealing the dimly lit interior of the submarine. The sight of lights flickering inside was unexpected, sending a ripple of surprise through the team.

Sico: "Looks like there's still power. This sub might be more than just a derelict. Be ready for anything."

Preston, MacCready, Nora, and Sico exchanged cautious looks before they equipped themselves with additional gear from their packs, including portable respirators and headlamps, despite the internal lighting. They entered the submarine one by one, descending a ladder that led into its cold, metallic interior.

Inside, the submarine was eerily silent except for the hum of machinery that suggested it was indeed still operational. The lights flickered overhead, casting shadows along the narrow corridor lined with closed hatches and pipes.

Nora: "Stay sharp. If the power's still on, there could be automated systems active. We don't want to trigger any alarms or worse."

They proceeded down the corridor, their footsteps echoing slightly in the confined space. Sico led the way, flashlight in hand, sweeping the area ahead for any signs of movement or hazards.

The corridor led Sico, MacCready, Nora, and Preston to a sealed door that, upon being carefully opened, revealed a control room bathed in the dim light of operational consoles. The air inside was stale but breathable, indicating some form of life support system was still functioning. As their eyes adjusted to the lower light, the outline of a figure slowly became apparent, seated in front of a bank of blinking monitors.

The figure turned towards them, revealing the decayed features typical of a ghoul. The remnants of a Chinese officer's uniform clung to its body, the fabric frayed and stained with the passage of time. The ghoul's eyes, clouded yet perceptive, fixed on the intruders with an expression that mixed wariness with profound exhaustion.

Ghoul: "Who are you? Why are you here? War is over. Long over. And my Yangtze holds no bao wu. No... treasure. Nothing for you to plunder."

Sico raised his hands slowly, signaling to MacCready, Nora, and Preston to keep their weapons lowered. His voice was calm and clear, aiming to communicate peaceful intentions.

Sico: "We're not here to plunder or cause trouble. My name is Sico, and these are my companions, Nora, MacCready, and Preston. We found your submarine while investigating reports of a strange creature seen in these waters. We mean no harm."

The ghoul studied them for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Then, he slowly rose from his seat, the movement stiff and pained. His voice, when he spoke again, carried a weary resignation.

Ghoul: "I am Captain Zao. This submarine, the Yangtze, has been my tomb and my penance. Long have I waited here, thinking the world above perished in atomic fire. You speak of creatures in the water—perhaps the Submarine telescope who covered by seaweed looks like a monster."

Sico's expression shifted from tension to understanding as Captain Zao's words sank in. The revelation that the 'monster' might have been the submarine's periscope, obscured by seaweed, began to clarify the mysterious sightings reported by the locals.

Sico: "Ah, that explains the sightings. The 'monster' the boy and others saw could just have been parts of your submarine, camouflaged by the sea growth. It's a misunderstanding that could have caused unnecessary panic."

Captain Zao nodded grimly, the lines on his weathered face deepening with the weight of his many years spent in isolation.

Zao: "Yes, the Yangtze's periscope, when raised, might appear as a sea creature to those unfamiliar with its design, especially covered in seaweed. Over the years, it was occasionally used to observe the surface discreetly, never intending to stir fears."

Nora, who had been quietly absorbing the situation, stepped forward with a concerned gaze.

Nora: "Captain Zao, how have you survived down here all these years? And why stay with the submarine?"

Zao's gaze drifted to a small, faded photograph taped to the console—a reminder of a distant life.

Captain Zao looked at the photograph as he began to explain his survival story, his voice carrying the weight of unspoken years.

Zao: "When the bombs fell, I was ordered to wait for instructions that never came. The radiation... it changed me, preserved me in this state. As a ghoul, I did not age nor starve, but I survived by scavenging from the ruins when necessary and defending the Yangtze from raiders. My submarine became my fortress, and the sea my moat."

He paused, his fingers tracing the edge of the console, worn smooth by decades of use.

Zao: "It was not just survival. I gathered intelligence and information, remnants of the old world. I hoped that, one day, it would serve a purpose—perhaps to help rebuild my homeland, China, or at least return there to find peace."

Nora listened intently, her expression one of deep sympathy mixed with respect for the ghoul's resilience and dedication.

Nora: "That's an incredible burden to bear alone. We've encountered many who've turned to despair or madness under less strain. Your discipline and hope are commendable, Captain."

Sico, moved by Zao's story, saw an opportunity not only to learn from Zao's unique experience but also to offer him a new beginning.

Sico: "Captain Zao, your knowledge could be invaluable to us. The world above has changed, but there are those among us who strive to rebuild, to create peace out of chaos. Perhaps there's a place for you in this new world, where your skills and knowledge can contribute to something meaningful."

Zao considered Sico's words, the prospect of rejoining the world above—a world he had watched from the shadows of his submerged tomb—slowly taking root.

Zao: "Perhaps it is time I saw this new world for myself. I have been a ghost in these depths for too long. If you will have me, I am willing to share what I know and help where I can."

Sico responded warmly to Captain Zao's willingness to step into a new chapter of his life, extending a hand in friendship and solidarity.

Sico: "We welcome you with open arms, Captain Zao. Your experiences and skills are indeed invaluable, and your perspective as a survivor of the old world will undoubtedly enrich our community."

Zao's expression softened, appreciating the acceptance and new-found camaraderie. As they continued their discussion, Sico's curiosity about the submarine's operational status prompted him to ask further.

Sico: "Captain Zao, is the Yangtze still capable of navigation? Is it seaworthy?"

Zao sighed, the weight of his answer heavy with the years he'd spent maintaining the vessel under impossible conditions.

Zao: "No, the Yangtze is no longer seaworthy in its current state. The dampening coil, essential for the reactor's operation, has been damaged. However, I believe it can be repaired. During the war, my intelligence indicated that a replacement coil might be found in Saugus Ironworks."

Nora, always thinking ahead, jumped in on the conversation.

Nora: "Saugus Ironworks, that's not too far from here, but it's dangerous. It's known to be occupied by the Forged, a hostile group. If we decide to retrieve the coil, it won't be without risks."

Sico nodded, considering the strategic and tactical challenges of such a mission.

Sico: "Retrieving this coil could potentially restore a valuable asset and provide us with significant advantages. Captain Zao, if you think the Yangtze can be made operational again, it's worth the risk. We'll need to plan this carefully."

Captain Zao's eyes lit up with a renewed sense of purpose as he considered the possibilities that repairing the Yangtze could bring, not just for him, but for his new allies as well.

Zao: "If you are willing to help me fix the Yangtze, I will commit to not only share my knowledge but also to help train a crew to operate her. The Yangtze was once a powerful tool for my country; perhaps now she can serve a purpose in helping to protect and rebuild this new world you are fighting for."

Sico nodded, impressed by Zao's offer and aware of the strategic value the submarine could provide to their operations.

Sico: "That's a generous offer, Captain. Having a functional submarine could significantly enhance our capabilities—whether for reconnaissance, securing our coastlines, or more direct engagements. We'll organize a team to retrieve the dampening coil from Saugus Ironworks and look into what else is needed to get the Yangtze back in operational condition."

Nora, always detail-oriented, thought about the logistical aspects.

Nora: "We'll need to assemble a skilled team not just for the retrieval, but for the repairs as well. We should also start identifying members of our community who could be trained as submariners. Zao, your expertise will be invaluable in this training."

Zao: "I would be honored to train your crew. I can teach them everything from navigation to submarine warfare tactics."

Sico: "Then we'll retrieve that dampening coil. We'll plan for the missions—go to Saugus Ironworks for the coil. We'll need to be cautious, because the place has a stong raider activity that is the Forged that Nora said."

Zao nodded, understanding the risks involved.

Zao: "I trust your judgment on how best to proceed. And thank you, all of you, for this chance to make things right."

Sico's mind churned through strategic possibilities as he contemplated the operational capacity of the Yangtze. Ensuring they understood exactly what resources they had was crucial, especially given the dangerous waters they navigated, both literally and figuratively.

Sico: "Captain Zao, since we're discussing making the Yangtze operational again, do you still have armaments on board? Torpedoes, missiles... perhaps even nuclear capabilities?"

Zao paused, the weight of the question evident in his hesitation. Finally, he nodded, his expression somber as he responded.

Zao: "Yes, the Yangtze was not just for reconnaissance. We still have a few torpedoes and, indeed, nuclear missiles aboard. They have been dormant, like the sub, but they are designed to be... long-lasting."

Everyone exchanged a glance, the gravity of the situation settling in. Having access to such weaponry was a significant advantage but also a profound responsibility.

Nora: "We need to handle this information carefully. Access to such armaments requires strict controls and protocols. We can't risk them falling into the wrong hands."

Sico: "Agreed. We'll need to ensure the highest security around this project. Zao, we'll also need your expertise to ensure these armaments are stable and secure, or to deactivate them if necessary."

Zao: "I understand your concerns and share them. I will assist in any way I can to ensure everything is secured properly. These weapons were meant for a different era, one that I hope never returns."

Preston, always focused on the practical aspects of their operations, chimed in with a decisive tone, emphasizing the need for vigilant security measures.

Preston: "I'll take charge of setting up patrols around the submarine. We need to keep a close eye on any movements in the area, not just to safeguard the sub but also to monitor for any interest from other groups like the Brotherhood of Steel or the Railroad. Both have their agendas and could be attracted to the type of technology we're dealing with here."

Sico nodded, appreciating Preston's foresight.

Sico: "Good point, Preston. Make sure those patrols are discreet but effective. We can't afford to draw too much attention until we know exactly what we're dealing with and have secured all possible threats."

Nora added, focusing on the broader implications of their find.

Nora: "In addition to physical patrols, let's set up surveillance equipment around the perimeter. I want real-time feeds coming into the command center. If anyone approaches the sub, I want to know about it immediately."

Preston acknowledged the instructions with a firm nod and began to make notes on his digital pad, planning the logistics of the security operation.

Preston: "I'll coordinate with the tech team to get the surveillance gear set up. We'll have eyes and ears on the ground 24/7."

With the security measures set in motion, the team felt more prepared to handle the delicate situation. They understood the balance they needed to maintain: securing a potentially game-changing asset while ensuring it did not become a catalyst for conflict or disaster in the volatile landscape of the Commonwealth.

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• Name: Sico

• Stats :

S: 8,44

P: 7,44

E: 8,44

C: 8,44

I: 9,44

A: 7,45

L: 7

• Skills: advance Mechanic, Science, and Shooting skills, intermediate Medical, Hand to Hand Combat, Lockpicking, Hacking, Persuasion, and Drawing Skills

• Inventory: 53.280 caps, 10mm Pistol, 1500 10mm rounds, 22 mole rats meat, 17 mole rats teeth, 1 fragmentation grenade, 6 stimpak, 1 rad x, 6 fusion core, computer blueprint, modern TV blueprint, camera recorder blueprint, 1 set of combat armor, Automatic Assault Rifle, 1.500 5.56mm rounds, power armor T51 blueprint, Electric Motorcycle blueprint, T-45 power armor, Minigun, 1.000 5mm rounds, Cryolator, 200 cryo cell, Machine Gun Turret Mk1 blueprint, electric car blueprint, Kellogg gun, Righteous Authority, Ashmaker, Furious Power Fist, Full set combat armor blueprint, M240 7.62mm machine guns blueprint, Automatic Assault Rifle blueprint, and Humvee blueprint

• Active Quest: -