The Heiress’ Return: Six Brothers at Her Beck and Call (Wynter Quinnell) novel Chapter 1718

However, Wynter realized that if her hypothesis was correct, both she and Dalton had already visited the village, touched the water-soaked monkeys, and been to the farmers' market. Going to the hospital wouldn't make much of a difference at this point.

"Fine. You can come, but don't touch anyone once we're at the hospital. Put on a mask before entering," Wynter said quickly.

Before starting the engine, she made a call to the person overseeing the farmers' market. "If anyone asks, tell them the market renovation is being done under the orders of Mr. Keller from Hawford. Let them go question him if they want."

"Yes, Boss," came the reply.

Revealing the Special Unit was a last resort. Usually, it was strictly against operational guidelines.

Wynter continued, "Also, inform all the Special Unit members in Colifernia to wear masks. If possible, find a way to keep everyone in the market within a designated activity range without causing public panic.

"The market stays closed. If anyone protests, have them call Mr. Keller directly. And do another round of disinfection inside the market."

Though earlier tests hadn't revealed a clear source of the virus, Wynter's unease lingered.

Her earlier remarks to the cultivators from Mt. Dragon weren't just to criticize his poor grasp of his craft.

The reality was that, considering the conditions in the market—whether from a sanitation or geomantic perspective—it was a breeding ground for trouble. It harbored excessive filth and resentment from the wild animals that had died there in the past.

In fact, aside from the hospitals, this market was likely to become the outbreak's second epicenter. Conversely, the mountain village was less of a concern because its natural surroundings were blessed with an abundance of positive energy.

As they drove, Wynter's mind was racing. She had many thoughts, made several plans, and made another call to her superiors.

"Forget about the transmission details. Just tell me the plan. How do we prevent this?"

With his mask still on, a weary-looking doctor, Nigel Alistair, stood up. His exhaustion was clear as he spoke.

"I believe the hospital should be locked down. Of course, we've responded quickly—we immediately isolated the medical team that came into contact with the patients, which is why I'm maintaining distance from all of you.

"But this can't continue unchecked. We must implement containment measures and conduct a thorough investigation into the infection's source.

"Who was the first patient? What did they come into contact with? Where were they infected? Where do they live, and what's their activity range? We need to act immediately. Regional lockdowns may be necessary."

His words elicited an immediate backlash from one of the leaders on the video call. "Dr. Alistair, do you hear yourself? What kind of catastrophe would warrant a regional lockdown?"