Chapter 1459

The small, empty basement offered no refuge. Austin fumbled in his pockets, producing a lighter, a fruit knife, a nail clipper, and a vial containing the successful sample. His habit of carrying a fruit knife might prove pivotal.

He tore open his trousers, revealing a dried but gruesome gunshot wound. This was his first experience with gunfire, though he'd treated a gunshot victim before—a ruthless gangster he'd encountered by chance. The man, refusing hospital treatment, had been fortunate to find Austin, who'd removed the bullet, saving his life. That incident, however, had faded quickly from memory. Who would have imagined he'd one day be extracting a bullet from himself?

Checking the wound, he sighed in relief; no major blood vessels were severed. He knew he couldn't delay, despite his fear. He disinfected the fruit knife's tip with the lighter, then braced himself. This would have been easier on another person.

Two attempts failed. Finally, he removed his coat, stuffed it in his mouth, and aimed the knife. Through gritted teeth, he plunged the blade into his wound. The searing pain nearly made him drop the knife, but survival demanded perseverance. Gripping it tightly, he forced his eyes open and dug into his flesh.

The pain was excruciating; sweat poured from him. No anesthetic dulled the agony; only willpower sustained him. When he felt the bullet's hard surface, he twisted the knife and extracted it. Instant relief washed over him. With remaining strength, he fashioned a makeshift bandage from his clothing, stemming the bleeding.

He stared at the bullet, relief overwhelming him. But blood loss and pain had drained him. His head fell to the side, and he passed out.

Meanwhile, after Lily's departure, Dominic sat in his wicker chair, a fan gently cooling him. He gazed at the scenic mountains and rivers, the chirping birds and fragrant flowers. He'd lived peacefully for years, yet human nature, he mused, breeds dissatisfaction. The world seemed once again at war.

Reaching for his teacup, he recalled Lily's words. Could the research institute be connected to the plague? And Austin—that idiot—was he involved? Though he disliked Austin, he was still a Fike, and despite his flaws, he always visited.

Dominic reached for his phone and made a call.