Live With Your Blood || LingOrm

Chapter 39: Lines of Conflict

The camping grounds were nestled amidst lush forested hills, with trees towering high above, casting dappled shadows over the tents below. The air was filled with the scent of pine and earth, with a cool breeze drifting in from the lake nearby. As dusk settled in, lanterns flickered to life around the campsite, casting a warm glow over the area. The sound of crickets filled the air, mixed with laughter and the crackling of campfires.

Tents in varied colors and sizes dotted the open field, some lined along the forest edge, while others clustered near the communal area where a large canopy was set up for group dinners. The sky was a gradient of purple and navy as the sun dipped below the mountains, stars beginning to poke through the evening haze. The group of campers gathered around tables for a shared meal, enjoying the peaceful setting and a rare moment away from the city's hustle.

As Orm enjoyed dinner with her family, she turned to her father, with a curious look. "Dad, how did we get to join Franky's work camping trip? Isn't this supposed to be for his company only?"

"Well, Franky's boss and I've known each other for a long time," Mr. Job smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "He was my senior in the army years ago, and we're still in touch. When I heard about the camping trip, I figured it was a good chance for a family outing."

"Hmm, when was the last time we went camping together?" Mrs. Koy joined in, raising an eyebrow with a teasing smile.

Orm thought for a moment. "Wasn't it two years ago?" she replied, recalling a distant memory of roasting marshmallows and stargazing.

"Exactly," Mr. Job nodded. "It's been far too long, and I wanted us to have that time again. I spoke to Franky's boss, and he was more than happy to let us join. Don't worry, we won't intrude on their team-building activities. We'll just do our own thing."

Just as he finished speaking, Franky approached, a serious look on his face. He leaned down to Mr. Job, his voice low. "Uncle, my boss wants to see you in his tent."

Mr. Job's smile faltered as he sensed the tension in Franky's voice. Giving a reassuring nod to his family, he rose from the table and followed Franky through the campsite, past rows of tents lit by lanterns, until they reached a large, army-green tent set off to the side. They ducked inside, where General Wongsawat waited.

The general was a sturdy, weathered man with a thick, graying beard and sharp, watchful eyes. He rose to greet Mr. Job, offering a firm handshake.

"Good to see you, Job," General Wongsawat said with a nod. "Great work for still finding out about the existence of vampires."

Mr. Job returned the handshake, glancing between the general and Franky, who stood at attention nearby. "It's good to see you too, sir. I understand you wanted to discuss our... plan?"

"Yes," General Wongsawat nodded gravely. "We're still expecting the vampires you mentioned before to arrive here. Ling, that's her name isn't it?"

"Correct, sir," Mr. Job nodded. "I'll discuss with Franky later how to make Ling and her minions come here. We need to make them assume they're safe. But we can set up the traps and ambush points as planned."

Franky spoke up, his tone professional but laced with urgency. "No worries, I've scattered several vantage points around the site with the help of other hunters. The lookouts are stationed along the perimeter, and a few soldiers are patrolling close to the family tents. Ling's people won't make it past us without a fight."

"What's the signal, then?" Mr. Job asked, the seriousness of the situation sinking in.

"When she's spotted approaching, let's sound a single whistle," General Wongsawat replied. "That'll be the cue for you to move other campers to a safer spot, away from any potential crossfire. We'll then close in on her from three sides."