They had previously speculated that the water and food in the cleanup zone were contaminated. Consuming them could infect people with pathogens, causing symptoms such as loss of voice and mental confusion, as well as turning them into Aliens.
Yi Mao and Wan Xiao's behavior just now suggested that, in addition, breathing in the air—or rather, certain unusual odors released by plants, animals, or the soil—could make people agitated.
But the evidence of people armed with weapons fighting one another was right before their eyes. The canteens and some of the food on the bodies had not been taken, suggesting that these people had not only become agitated but also bloodthirsty and prone to killing, perhaps even losing their reason.
Of course, without witnessing it firsthand, they couldn't be certain what had happened. But considering Yi Mao and Wan Xiao's earlier reactions, they could at least be sure it was possible.
"So we not only have to deal with people who might come after our water and food, but also watch out for people who aren't quite in their right minds?" Yi Mao looked around. "I was pretty worked up just now, but I didn't mistake anyone for an Alien. Could something like that happen? Or could someone have teamed up to kill the others?"
"What reason would they have to kill anyone?" Wan Xiao said. "They didn't even take the water or food. We're not Players, and we don't have any decent items. We're low on guns and ammunition, too. Aside from wasting both sides' ammo for no reason, I can't think of any benefit to killing people this way."
"For now, let's assume the soldiers turned on each other because of the unusual environment," Xu Huo said. In his view, it was the best explanation they had.
"The