【3】Reborn in doomsday, I spent 80 million on the safest bunker—thought I’d survive quietly, but… (YouTube Video Transcript)

(00:00:00) Your YouTube transcript will appear here (00:00:00) The extreme cold passed unnoticed, and (00:00:03) just as people were barely adapting to (00:00:04) life during the frigid period, thinking (00:00:06) it would continue indefinitely, reality (00:00:09) would jump out and hit them hard, (00:00:11) catching them offguard, estimating that (00:00:13) the extreme cold was about to end. For (00:00:15) the past week, the first thing Shuene (00:00:17) did every morning was check the outdoor (00:00:19) thermometer. This morning was no (00:00:21) exception. Watching the temperature on (00:00:23) the thermometer slowly rise, Shuin let (00:00:26) out a long sigh of relief. Feeling as (00:00:29) though it had finally arrived, the (00:00:31) duration of the extreme heat was the (00:00:33) shortest among all the calamities, (00:00:35) lasting only a month. Yet, this single (00:00:37) month of scorching heat dealt humanity a (00:00:39) blow more severe than the previous two (00:00:41) disasters combined. Nearly catastrophic (00:00:44) in its devastation. From extreme cold to (00:00:46) extreme heat, humanity was given no time (00:00:49) to adapt as temperatures could soar from (00:00:52) minus40° to 50° within a single day. The (00:00:56) rapid temperature shifts caused most of (00:00:58) the wellpreserved grains and crops from (00:01:00) the cold to thaw, become damp, and then (00:01:03) rapidly rot under the intense heat in a (00:01:05) short period. The prolonged extreme heat (00:01:07) kept the sun high in the sky, quickly (00:01:09) evaporating moisture from the ground and (00:01:11) the air. Food and water, the very (00:01:14) foundations of human survival, were (00:01:16) devastated by up to 80% during the (00:01:18) extreme heat, leaving an undeniably (00:01:21) massive impact on people. Shu Axen (00:01:24) rummaged through her thoughts while (00:01:25) retrieving items from her space that she (00:01:27) had prepared a week ago for the extreme (00:01:29) heat period. The sun, which had (00:01:31) disappeared since the heavy rain began, (00:01:33) reappeared in the sky, leaving everyone (00:01:36) with just one sensation. Dazzling. (00:01:38) Extremely dazzling. People who hadn't (00:01:41) seen sunlight for so long failed to (00:01:43) notice anything unusual, attributing it (00:01:45) to their prolonged absence from the sun. (00:01:47) They didn't realize that it was only 6 (00:01:49) or 7 in the morning. and what such (00:01:52) intense brightness at this hour (00:01:54) signified. Confirming that the (00:01:55) temperature was rising, Yanmo used the (00:01:58) walkie-talkie to inform Busyang and (00:02:00) Muiimai downstairs, he swiftly began (00:02:03) dismantling the heating stove installed (00:02:05) in the bedroom. Meanwhile, Shuakian (00:02:07) wasn't idle either. She packed away (00:02:09) their thick winter clothes, heavy (00:02:11) blankets, and mattresses, then arranged (00:02:14) their summer attire and replaced the (00:02:16) bedding with lighter options. After (00:02:18) tidying up their bedrooms, the group was (00:02:21) already drenched in sweat. The (00:02:23) temperature outside had risen back to 0° (00:02:26) and the ice layers gradually melted, (00:02:28) producing a pitterpatter sound like (00:02:30) rain, removing their thick coats and (00:02:32) having a quick meal. They got back to (00:02:34) work. They dismantled the living room (00:02:36) stove, rolled up the carpet, and (00:02:38) replaced the space heater in its usual (00:02:40) spot with an air conditioning fan. (00:02:42) Inside, they placed crushed ice (00:02:44) collected during the extreme cold (00:02:46) period. (00:02:48) Arranging ice blocks in every corner of (00:02:50) the living room to spread cool air. (00:02:52) Sweat trickled down their faces, and the (00:02:54) group couldn't bear it any longer, they (00:02:56) each retreated to their rooms to change (00:02:58) into cooler clothes before returning to (00:03:00) finish the cleanup. After thoroughly (00:03:02) organizing the items needed for the (00:03:04) extreme cold period indoors, sweat had (00:03:06) soaked through the clothes of all four (00:03:08) individuals. Yet by 9 a.m. the (00:03:11) temperature outside had already soared (00:03:13) to over 30° C. (00:03:16) The air conditioner and cooling fans in (00:03:18) the room kicked into action, dispelling (00:03:20) the heat inside, persisting through the (00:03:22) task of tidying up their own bedrooms. (00:03:24) The four of them took showers in their (00:03:26) rooms, changed into fresh clothes, and (00:03:29) then lounged under the air conditioner, (00:03:31) sipping on chilled drinks, and indulging (00:03:33) in idleness. Others weren't as (00:03:35) comfortable as them. The sudden (00:03:36) appearance of the sun and the abrupt (00:03:38) rise in temperature drove people to rush (00:03:40) outside like madmen. Eager to bask in (00:03:43) the long-lost warmth. It wasn't until (00:03:45) the ice beneath their feet began (00:03:47) cracking that they snapped back to (00:03:49) reality. The ice shattered at an (00:03:51) alarming speed. Those who had ventured (00:03:53) farthest out couldn't make it back to (00:03:54) safety in time before the ice completely (00:03:56) gave way, plunging them into the water (00:03:59) and sweeping them away to their deaths. (00:04:01) People fled back indoors in terror only (00:04:03) to find something even worse awaiting (00:04:05) them. Most people had suffered frostbite (00:04:07) to varying degrees, some mild, (00:04:11) some severe. As the temperature rose too (00:04:13) rapidly, the frostbitten areas directly (00:04:16) festered, quickly becoming inflamed and (00:04:18) separating. The pain made them wail in (00:04:20) agony, creating a scene of utter misery. (00:04:23) By 11 a.m., the temperature approached (00:04:26) 50° C. Three or four air conditioners in (00:04:29) the room were running non-stop, blowing (00:04:32) out cold air that barely managed to keep (00:04:34) the indoor temperature at 30°. After the (00:04:37) morning's ordeal, the sweltering heat (00:04:39) left several people with little (00:04:40) appetite. (00:04:42) Shu Axan flipped through her social (00:04:44) media space, then went to the kitchen (00:04:46) with Yan Mo. They brought out a pot of (00:04:48) spicy chicken skewers, bobo chicken, (00:04:51) several cold dishes, and four servings (00:04:54) of cold sour soup noodles for lunch. The (00:04:56) facts prove that animals adaptability (00:04:58) far surpasses that of humans. To cope (00:05:01) with the extreme cold, the white tiger (00:05:03) and snow wolf had grown dense, thick (00:05:05) fur. Shu Axan and the others had shaved (00:05:08) the four animals once to help them stay (00:05:10) cool. When their fur grew back, it (00:05:13) became much thinner, making them appear (00:05:15) a size smaller. Within a few days, they (00:05:18) noticed that these four troublemakers (00:05:19) had become extremely sleepy in the (00:05:21) extreme heat. Originally, they were (00:05:24) awake for over 10 hours out of 24 each (00:05:26) day. But now, the situation had (00:05:28) reversed. They slept most of the time (00:05:30) and couldn't be woken up no matter how (00:05:32) hard they tried. If it weren't for their (00:05:34) breathing and knowing they'd wake up to (00:05:36) eat, I'd almost think something had (00:05:38) happened to them. After observing for a (00:05:40) few days, I confirmed they must have (00:05:42) entered a mutation period. So, I had (00:05:45) Shushi move them all into the space. (00:05:47) Mutating inside the space would be (00:05:48) safer, free from other disturbances. I (00:05:51) didn't expect animal mutations to start (00:05:53) right at the beginning of the extreme (00:05:55) heat period. While human mutations (00:05:57) appeared in the later stages, it seems (00:05:59) nature favors plants and animals more, (00:06:02) withdrawing its grace from humans. The (00:06:05) arrival of the extreme heat also made (00:06:07) Shushin feel increasingly pressured. (00:06:09) Yanmo, Busyang, and Mui were all named (00:06:13) supporting characters in the original (00:06:15) book, destined to awaken supernatural (00:06:17) abilities later on. only she was a minor (00:06:20) cannon fodder barely mentioned in (00:06:22) passing by others existing somewhere (00:06:24) beyond the 20th tier considering the (00:06:26) flesheating zombies and mutated flora (00:06:28) and fauna she would soon face if she (00:06:31) didn't awaken any abilities (00:06:33) her own strength would have to be (00:06:35) exceptional just to survive and avoid (00:06:37) becoming a burden the three of them Yenm (00:06:40) and the others clearly noticed that Shu (00:06:42) Axai was throwing herself into their (00:06:44) usual training with even greater (00:06:45) intensity she even voluntarily increased (00:06:48) her workload, pushing herself to (00:06:50) exhaustion everyday without rest, and no (00:06:52) longer spoke during what used to be her (00:06:54) most cherished meal time. "Has (00:06:57) sister-in-law been acting a bit off (00:06:58) lately?" Busyang whispered to Muimai, (00:07:01) leaning in close. "H, it feels like the (00:07:04) mental state is extremely tense. If this (00:07:06) continues, either the body can't take it (00:07:09) or the mind will collapse first." (00:07:11) Muchimai looked at the person training (00:07:13) in the practice room and made a fair (00:07:14) comment, then his friends. Should we (00:07:17) find a chance to ask what's wrong with (00:07:19) sister-in-law and help her resolve the (00:07:20) issues in her heart with brother Mo (00:07:23) around? Where would it be our turn? (00:07:26) Haven't you noticed how brother (00:07:27) Mo<unk>'s eyes have been filled with (00:07:28) heartache and worry for sister-in-law (00:07:30) lately? Don't worry. I bet brother Mo (00:07:33) will comfort her tonight. Holding it in (00:07:35) for these past few days has already (00:07:37) reached his limit. You make a good (00:07:38) point. Let's go. We shouldn't rest (00:07:41) either. Let's make the most of our time (00:07:42) and train. Chapter 44. increase in size. (00:07:46) Not a single cloud could be seen in the (00:07:48) sky, nor a breath of wind in the air. (00:07:52) The scorching sun hung high above, and (00:07:54) wherever its rays reached, not a trace (00:07:56) of human presence was visible. The (00:07:58) ground emitted a blinding white light, (00:08:00) as if it were on the verge of melting (00:08:02) under the heat. The temperature outside (00:08:04) soared to over 50° C. A short walk (00:08:07) outside would leave one drenched in (00:08:09) sweat to the point of dehydration. (00:08:11) Without proper protection, sunburn was (00:08:14) almost inevitable. While wearing too (00:08:16) many layers carried the risk of heat (00:08:17) stroke and fainting, fainting on the (00:08:20) ground won't earn you any kind soles to (00:08:22) help you up. Collapsing onto a surface (00:08:24) so hot it could melt the soles of your (00:08:26) shoes means getting back up requires (00:08:28) being prepared to tear off a layer of (00:08:30) flesh. Though more likely, you won't be (00:08:32) able to rise at all that night. After (00:08:34) Yan Mo had a heart-to-he heart with Shu (00:08:36) Axen. She adjusted her mindset, (00:08:39) realizing she had been over complicating (00:08:41) things, the next day, Shu Axen resumed (00:08:44) her original training routine. For half (00:08:47) a month into the extreme heat, Shu Axen (00:08:50) and the others stayed indoors without (00:08:52) stepping outside once. They lacked (00:08:54) nothing, so there was no need to subject (00:08:56) themselves to the suffering outside. (00:08:58) Although the house was renovated with (00:09:00) top tier insulation materials, it (00:09:02) couldn't completely block the nearly 18 (00:09:04) hours of scorching sunlight each day. (00:09:07) The indoor temperature inevitably rose, (00:09:09) and to maintain a livable environment, (00:09:11) multiple air cooling fans ran (00:09:13) continuously, (00:09:15) consuming a significant amount of ice. (00:09:17) Fortunately, they had collected many (00:09:19) free, all natural resources during the (00:09:22) extreme cold period, saving a lot of (00:09:24) effort. The water from the melted ice (00:09:26) was all collected by Shusheen into empty (00:09:28) water tanks. The ice picked up from (00:09:30) outside was definitely not safe to (00:09:32) consume, but it was perfectly fine to (00:09:34) use for bathing the snow wolf and the (00:09:36) white tiger. Thinking of this, Shuene (00:09:39) extended her spiritual sense into the (00:09:41) second level of her space to check on (00:09:43) the snow wolf and white tiger sleeping (00:09:45) inside. She hadn't paid attention to (00:09:47) them since bringing them into the space. (00:09:49) Out of sight, out of mind. But what she (00:09:52) saw shocked her. Cough. A cough. Shu (00:09:55) Axan had just taken a sip of iced bubble (00:09:57) tea, chewing on the pearls inside. When (00:10:00) she unexpectedly witnessed the changes (00:10:02) in the white tiger and snow wolf within (00:10:04) the space, she gasped in shock, choking (00:10:08) on the unswallowed pearls in her throat, (00:10:10) coughing so violently it seemed she (00:10:12) might pass out the next second. Be (00:10:14) careful, someone your age choking on (00:10:16) bubble tea. Looks like we'll have to ban (00:10:19) your bubble tea next time. Yanimmo was (00:10:21) so startled that he immediately put down (00:10:23) the book in his hands and rushed over to (00:10:25) pat her back, waiting for her to (00:10:26) recover. Upon hearing that her milk tea (00:10:29) might be taken away, Shuene immediately (00:10:31) suppressed her cough. Pretending to be (00:10:34) fine as she stubbornly insisted, "I'm (00:10:37) okay. That was just an accident. You (00:10:39) can't stop my milk tea. You Why did you (00:10:42) suddenly start coughing like that?" Ya (00:10:44) flicked Shuene's forehead in (00:10:46) frustration, making her pout in (00:10:47) displeasure. Right? It's all your fault (00:10:49) for interrupting me. I almost forgot the (00:10:52) important matter. Look, without wasting (00:10:54) words, Shuene directly moved the white (00:10:56) tiger and snow wolf, which were in deep (00:10:59) slumber within the space, to another (00:11:02) spot. Yet, they showed no signs of (00:11:04) waking up at all. H the appearance of (00:11:07) two white tigers and two snow wolves (00:11:09) instantly made the spacious bedroom feel (00:11:11) crowded, forcing Shu Axen and Yan Mo to (00:11:14) retreat to the doorway. Xiang Wend (00:11:17) Chimi, come up here for a moment. Yanmo (00:11:20) called from the second floor stairwell. (00:11:22) The transformation of the white tigers (00:11:24) and snow wolves was truly astonishing. (00:11:26) Busiang and Mui Mai stood frozen in (00:11:29) place, momentarily unable to react at (00:11:32) the sight of their current forms. This (00:11:35) the change is just too drastic. I (00:11:37) remember when we put them in, the four (00:11:39) little ones only came up to my knees. (00:11:41) Now they're even bigger than their fully (00:11:43) grown adult sizes, Busyang murmured. (00:11:46) Judging by their appearance, they'll (00:11:47) probably keep growing larger. I never (00:11:50) expected animal mutations to cause such (00:11:52) drastic changes in size. Do we have (00:11:54) enough meat stockpiled to feed them? (00:11:56) Muchimai's first concern was practical, (00:12:00) and he looked somewhat worried. Don't (00:12:02) worry, we have more than enough to raise (00:12:04) these four. Besides, after mutating, (00:12:07) they should be able to hunt other (00:12:08) mutated animals on their own. We won't (00:12:10) need to worry too much about them, Yanmo (00:12:13) said with a chuckle. Not even counting (00:12:14) the supplies Shu Axahan had stockpiled (00:12:17) earlier. Just the resources he later (00:12:19) purchased with money would be enough to (00:12:21) sustain a city of 10,000 people for 50 (00:12:23) years. Raising four mutated animals (00:12:26) would be a breeze. After Busiang and Mui (00:12:30) went downstairs, Shu Axin moved the (00:12:32) animals back into the space. This time (00:12:35) he placed them much farther apart, (00:12:37) afraid that as they grew even larger, (00:12:39) they might end up squeezing each other (00:12:40) and hindering their development. After (00:12:42) settling the white tiger and snow wolf, (00:12:45) Shuene began inspecting the second level (00:12:47) of her space. As far as the eye could (00:12:49) see, endless stretches of lush green (00:12:51) pasture stretched out where all the (00:12:53) cattle, sheep, ducks, and rabbits she (00:12:57) had raised were plump and robust, their (00:12:59) meat looking tender and delicious. The (00:13:01) various fruit saplings planted on the (00:13:03) mountain bore abundant fruit which (00:13:05) wouldn't spoil even if left unh (00:13:07) harvested after ripening. They remained (00:13:09) in their most juicy and delicious state, (00:13:11) ready to be picked whenever she wanted (00:13:13) to eat them. Speaking of which, this (00:13:15) second level of the space was truly (00:13:17) miraculous, no matter what animals, (00:13:20) fruits, or medicinal herbs live in any (00:13:22) region or environment. (00:13:24) As long as they enter the space, they (00:13:26) can adapt and thrive without any signs (00:13:28) of discomfort. Their growth cycles are (00:13:31) uniformly shortened by half. The only (00:13:33) exception is that grains and vegetables (00:13:35) cannot be grown. Shusheen tried every (00:13:37) method and various types of grain and (00:13:39) vegetable seeds. The seedlings entered (00:13:41) the space alive and well, but by the (00:13:44) next day they had lost all vitality, (00:13:46) standing there withered, mocking (00:13:48) Shuene's wild fantasies. After (00:13:50) exhausting every conceivable method (00:13:52) without success, (00:13:55) Shuene gave up. One shouldn't be too (00:13:57) greedy. Being able to grow fruits and (00:13:59) medicinal herbs was already a tremendous (00:14:01) advantage, something others couldn't (00:14:03) even obtain. She needed to be content. (00:14:06) She picked a basket of fruits, caught (00:14:08) seven or eight rabbits, and left the (00:14:10) space thoroughly satisfied. Rabbits (00:14:12) really have strong reproductive (00:14:14) abilities. Just now, it seemed like they (00:14:16) were about to overrun the place, so we (00:14:19) need to quickly get rid of some. handing (00:14:21) the rabbits over to Yenmo. (00:14:23) On their way downstairs, Shushin's mind (00:14:26) was already racing with various ways to (00:14:28) cook rabbits. Dry pod rabbit, fragrant (00:14:31) roasted rabbit, spicy rabbit heads, (00:14:33) tender rabbit with corn, cold tossed (00:14:35) rabbit ears, chilled spicy rabbit. Help! (00:14:39) Help! I can't keep thinking about this. (00:14:41) My mouth is about to start watering. (00:14:43) Trying hard to tear her gaze away from (00:14:45) the plump rabbits, Shuene decided to (00:14:48) distract herself by rumaging through the (00:14:50) fridge for an ice cream to satisfy her (00:14:52) cravings. (00:14:53) There are four refrigerators at home. (00:14:55) And after entering the extreme heat, one (00:14:58) is specifically designated for storing (00:15:00) various beverages, fruits, and ice (00:15:02) cream. However, to prevent Shu Axian (00:15:05) from experiencing back and stomach pain (00:15:07) during her period, Yanimo strictly (00:15:09) regulates and controls her daily intake (00:15:11) of these items. Shu Aakai<unk>s secret (00:15:14) attempts to sneak ice cream from the (00:15:16) space were also uncovered by Yanmo, who (00:15:18) absolutely forbids her from staying (00:15:20) alone in any space for more than 10 (00:15:22) minutes. If Shu Axen suffers discomfort (00:15:26) during her period that month, she will (00:15:28) no longer be allowed to touch those (00:15:29) things, cutting off her desires at the (00:15:32) root. Chapter 45. Zombies. On the first (00:15:35) day of the fourth week of extreme heat (00:15:37) in the middle of the night, Yanimo (00:15:39) suddenly developed a high fever without (00:15:41) any warning, Shu Aakan, who was sleeping (00:15:44) next to Yan Mo, felt as if she was (00:15:46) trapped in a furnace in her drowsy (00:15:48) state. It was unbearably uncomfortable, (00:15:50) and no matter how she tried to escape, (00:15:53) she couldn't. Eventually waking up in (00:15:56) frustration, blinking groggy, she (00:15:58) realized Yanimo was holding her tightly (00:16:00) in his arms, she reached out to push him (00:16:03) away. But the moment her hand touched (00:16:05) his skin, the scalding heat made her (00:16:07) recoil instantly. Shu Axen immediately (00:16:09) snapped awake, sitting up abruptly and (00:16:12) placing her hand back on Yan Mo<unk>s (00:16:14) forehead. I have a fever. Ouch. This (00:16:16) temperature is a bit too high. Don't let (00:16:19) it fry your brain. Shu Axian reached (00:16:21) under the bedside table to retrieve the (00:16:23) medicine box. rummaged through it to (00:16:26) find fever reducing medicine and had the (00:16:28) person take it with water first. (00:16:30) Changing out of the pajamas and quickly (00:16:32) putting on some presentable clothes, she (00:16:34) hurried downstairs to knock on Biangwen (00:16:36) and Muimai's doors. After knocking for a (00:16:39) long time, only a faint movement came (00:16:41) from Bishangwin<unk>s room. It seemed (00:16:43) both of them had also started to develop (00:16:45) a fever without caring about avoiding (00:16:47) suspicion. (00:16:49) Shu Axian rummaged through the storage (00:16:51) room cabinet and found the keys to their (00:16:53) rooms, then opened both doors. Muchimai (00:16:56) had completely lost consciousness, while (00:16:58) Busyang was slightly better off than Yan (00:17:00) Mo and Muimai. Retaining some awareness, (00:17:03) it appeared his fever hadn't lasted as (00:17:05) long as the other two. After giving both (00:17:08) of them fever reducing medicine, Shu (00:17:10) Axen finally had a moment to catch her (00:17:12) breath and sort out the current (00:17:14) situation. (00:17:15) Yanmo and the other two were likely (00:17:17) among the first batch of people to (00:17:19) develop fevers. The original book (00:17:21) mentioned that the first batch of fever (00:17:23) patients had a significantly higher (00:17:24) chance of awakening supernatural (00:17:26) abilities along with greater strength (00:17:28) and potential compared to the second (00:17:30) batch 3 days later. Those who survived (00:17:33) the awakening process from this batch (00:17:35) all became highle ability users in the (00:17:37) later stages of the apocalypse. High (00:17:39) fever is a precursor to human mutation. (00:17:42) The fever period is exceptionally (00:17:44) grueling as the genes within the body (00:17:46) undergo fragmentation and (00:17:48) reorganization. One can only imagine how (00:17:51) unbearable it must be. Many people, (00:17:53) despite having the potential to awaken (00:17:55) abilities, simply couldn't endure the (00:17:57) agony of the fever period. They either (00:17:59) gave up halfway, becoming ordinary (00:18:02) people, or directly turned into zombies. (00:18:04) The process of turning into a zombie is (00:18:06) far simpler and quicker than awakening (00:18:08) an ability. (00:18:10) Fever reducing medicine could alleviate (00:18:12) some of the suffering during the fever (00:18:14) period, which is why Shu Axen made sure (00:18:16) to administer it to all three of them. (00:18:18) Since Busyang and Mucci were men, it (00:18:21) wasn't appropriate for her to help them (00:18:22) with physical cooling methods like (00:18:24) wiping their bodies. The most she could (00:18:26) do was regularly give them fever (00:18:28) reducers and replace the ice packs on (00:18:30) their foreheads. However, Yanim Mo, she (00:18:33) could handle it personally. (00:18:35) Taking a bottle of high-proof alcohol (00:18:37) and a new roll of gauze into the (00:18:39) bathroom. The medical book suggested (00:18:41) diluting 75% medical alcohol with warm (00:18:44) water, 32 to 34° C, to a concentration (00:18:48) of 25% to 30% for a sponge bath to (00:18:51) reduce fever. Shuax and strictly (00:18:54) followed the proportions and temperature (00:18:55) mentioned in the book. prepared the (00:18:57) alcohol solution, brought it out, (00:18:59) moistened the gauze, and carefully wiped (00:19:02) along the major blood vessels such as (00:19:03) the neck, armpits, elbows, groin, and (00:19:08) behind the knees to help Yan Mo (00:19:09) alleviate the discomfort during the (00:19:11) fever. Stretching her neck, Shuakian (00:19:14) walked to the window, lifted a corner of (00:19:16) the curtain, and saw the eerie scene (00:19:18) outside. The pitch black sky held not a (00:19:20) single glimmer of starlight. And at some (00:19:22) unknown moment, a blood red moon emerged (00:19:25) within it, appearing particularly eerie (00:19:27) and grotesque in the silent night, (00:19:29) making one feel extremely uneasy. (00:19:31) Pulling the thick curtains shut again, (00:19:34) Shuene laid down beside Yanmo. (00:19:37) Gazing at his familiar face as the (00:19:39) discomfort in her heart slowly faded (00:19:41) away. After tossing and turning for half (00:19:43) the night, lost in thought, Shuene's (00:19:46) eyelids grew heavy beyond her control, (00:19:48) and she drifted into slumber. The next (00:19:50) morning, Shuene woke with a start, (00:19:52) knocking her head in frustration. (00:19:54) "Seriously, how did I fall asleep?" (00:19:57) Luckily, nothing bad happened. Following (00:20:00) last night's routine, she gave all three (00:20:02) of them fever reducing medicine, (00:20:04) replaced the ice packs on their (00:20:06) foreheads, (00:20:07) and then walked into the kitchen with (00:20:09) relief. Planning to cook a vegetable and (00:20:11) lean meat porridge to replenish their (00:20:13) nutrients and energy. Plain porridge (00:20:15) lacks nutrition, and seafood porridge is (00:20:17) hard to digest. So, Shushin opted for (00:20:20) vegetable and lean meat porridge, which (00:20:22) is both nutritious and easy on the (00:20:24) stomach. Her cooking skills are so poor (00:20:26) they border on disastrous, but she can (00:20:28) manage something simple like porridge. (00:20:31) After feeding each of them a bowl and (00:20:32) replacing the ice packs again, Shuene (00:20:36) sat down to eat her own breakfast, the (00:20:38) fragrant, fully loaded hand pancake (00:20:40) paired with a steaming cup of soy milk (00:20:43) soothes Shuakai's stomach, filling her (00:20:45) with a sense of happiness. Last night, (00:20:48) the first batch of people with fevers (00:20:49) appeared. Shuakan estimated that zombies (00:20:52) would emerge by tomorrow morning at the (00:20:54) latest. Being among the first to develop (00:20:56) fevers indicated that their physical (00:20:58) condition was undoubtedly good. They (00:21:01) could likely endure the feverish period (00:21:03) for at least a day without major issues. (00:21:05) Before going to bed at night, Shuakan (00:21:08) deliberately turned on the high voltage (00:21:09) electricity on the security door in the (00:21:11) hallway, drew all the curtains tightly (00:21:13) in the room, checked the security alarm (00:21:15) on the door, and only then felt at ease (00:21:18) lying down on the sofa to rest while (00:21:20) people were sound asleep at night. The (00:21:22) world underwent earthshattering changes (00:21:24) in complete silence. When people woke up (00:21:26) again, they would find that some of (00:21:29) those with fever around them had become (00:21:30) eerily strange. Their faces turned ash (00:21:33) and gray, their entire eyeballs taken (00:21:35) over by the whites, and their bodies (00:21:37) trembling uncontrollably. If you tried (00:21:39) to approach for a closer look, they (00:21:41) would suddenly lunge at you, biting (00:21:43) fiercely and tearing off a chunk of your (00:21:45) flesh. The scent of blood excited them, (00:21:48) and more of these creatures began (00:21:49) attacking people. Crowded places (00:21:52) descended into chaos. (00:21:54) Before anyone could control these (00:21:56) aggressive beings, those who had just (00:21:58) been injured by them turned around and (00:21:59) started attacking others nearby. The (00:22:02) scene grew even more chaotic with (00:22:04) screams rising one after another. Their (00:22:06) appearance was too sudden, leaving (00:22:08) people completely unprepared. When (00:22:10) someone shouted the word zombies, the (00:22:12) rest were struck with sudden clarity. (00:22:14) Realizing they might truly be zombies, (00:22:17) their bodies were rotting, emitting a (00:22:19) foul stench with sharp blackened nails. (00:22:23) They moved slowly and stiffly. They were (00:22:25) extremely sensitive to human scent, (00:22:27) light, and sound. Attacking and (00:22:29) devouring human flesh with a terrifying (00:22:32) hunger. Those who were scratched or (00:22:33) bitten by them had a 99% chance of (00:22:36) turning into the same creatures. And (00:22:38) what they turned into were the people (00:22:39) they once knew bashed. Their family, (00:22:42) friends, lovers, and children. The (00:22:44) change was far too sudden. They had no (00:22:47) time to ponder why this had happened to (00:22:49) them. No time to grieve or mourn. (00:22:52) Fleeing and survival became the main (00:22:54) themes of their lives from then on. This (00:22:56) day would later be known as the true (00:22:57) beginning of the zombie apocalypse. From (00:23:00) then on, humanity entered a new (00:23:02) apocalyptic era. Zombies roamed (00:23:04) everywhere. Animals and plants awakened (00:23:06) one after another. Superhumans emerged (00:23:09) and ordinary people were relegated to (00:23:11) the bottom of society. The rule of the (00:23:13) official government completely collapsed (00:23:15) and new rulers arose in various regions. (00:23:18) Vying for dominance in the (00:23:20) post-apocalyptic world. Chapter 46. (00:23:23) Between dream and reality. When the (00:23:25) fever first hit, Yane Mo felt as though (00:23:27) his body had slipped beyond his control. (00:23:30) His eyes refused to open. Yet his (00:23:32) consciousness remained clear. Acutely (00:23:34) aware of everything happening around (00:23:36) him. Even with his eyes closed, Yan Mo (00:23:39) could sense Shuin's worry and anxiety. (00:23:41) He desperately wanted to open his eyes (00:23:43) and reassure her to tell her he was (00:23:45) fine. But he couldn't. As his (00:23:48) consciousness grew heavier, Yanmo (00:23:50) gradually lost all perception of the (00:23:52) outside world. Yan Mo stared at the (00:23:55) scene before him. Momentarily stunned, (00:23:57) the room was clearly set up as a morning (00:23:59) hall, but he didn't know whose funeral (00:24:01) it was or how he had ended up here. His (00:24:03) gaze swept over the photograph displayed (00:24:05) in the morning hall, and upon seeing the (00:24:08) face that was both unfamiliar and (00:24:09) familiar, his pupils contracted (00:24:11) slightly. After their marriage, Shu Axai (00:24:14) had once taken him to pay respects to (00:24:16) her parents. The photo on display was (00:24:19) unmistakably that of Shuxen<unk>s (00:24:21) parents. This was the funeral of (00:24:23) Shuakai<unk>s parents. Noticing this, (00:24:26) Yanimo stroed out of the room and found (00:24:28) Shuakai<unk>s figure outside. From the (00:24:31) back, her silhouette appeared so slender (00:24:33) and fragile, as if a gust of wind could (00:24:36) blow her away. His concern for Shu Axian (00:24:38) made Yan Mo unconsciously ignore the (00:24:41) strange feeling that arose in his heart (00:24:42) when he saw her back. He quickly walked (00:24:45) to Shuakai side, wanting to pull her (00:24:47) into his arms for a hug. His (00:24:50) outstretched hand passed straight (00:24:51) through Shuaken<unk>s arm. Yanim Mo (00:24:54) froze for a moment, staring at his own (00:24:56) translucent palm. Is it a dream? Shuakai (00:24:59) beside her turned around. And the moment (00:25:01) Yanmo saw Shuakai<unk>s eyes, her brows (00:25:05) furrowed deeply. a fierce glint flashing (00:25:07) in her gaze. Who is this? She's not my (00:25:10) dear Axan. He stood aside, hearing (00:25:12) others call her name, Shu Axan, and (00:25:15) coldly observed her life. She and Axen (00:25:18) Bao were identical in appearance, the (00:25:20) same face, the same name, the same (00:25:24) background. Yet their eyes were entirely (00:25:26) different, as if two completely distinct (00:25:28) souls inhabited the same body. The (00:25:31) divergence began with the enulment of (00:25:32) the Bif family's engagement. Yan Mo (00:25:35) noticed Shuak Xian<unk>s affection for (00:25:37) Baijing Chu, the young master of the Bai (00:25:40) family. Having already lost her parents, (00:25:42) she was desperate to cling to the only (00:25:44) thing she still possessed. No matter how (00:25:46) much the B family tried to persuade, (00:25:49) Shuene stubbornly refused to agree to (00:25:52) break off the engagement with the B (00:25:54) family. The B family tried both soft and (00:25:56) hard tactics, but failed to make the (00:25:58) other party give in. Frustrated and (00:26:00) furious, they resorted to a more (00:26:02) sinister method. They hired a man to (00:26:05) pose as a successful elite and seduce (00:26:07) Shuene, hoping she would fall in love, (00:26:10) shift her affections, and propose (00:26:12) breaking off the engagement herself. (00:26:14) However, Shuene was too single-minded. (00:26:18) Turning a blind eye to the man's various (00:26:20) advances. Unable to do otherwise, the By (00:26:23) family could only create opportunities (00:26:25) when the man interacted with Shuene, (00:26:27) staging some intimate photos of the two (00:26:29) of them through clever camera angles at (00:26:31) the engagement banquet. These ambiguous (00:26:33) intimate photos were revealed, giving (00:26:35) everyone the illusion that Shuene had a (00:26:37) promiscuous private life. Righteously (00:26:40) declaring that Shuin's character was (00:26:42) unworthy of being there by family's (00:26:43) daughter-in-law, (00:26:45) they forced her to accept the fact of (00:26:47) the broken engagement, Shuene, an orphan (00:26:50) girl with no power or influence, had no (00:26:52) one believe her feeble explanations. (00:26:54) Even her only remaining relatives, her (00:26:57) uncle's family, didn't speak up for her, (00:26:59) resenting her for ruining their plans to (00:27:01) climb the social ladder by marrying into (00:27:03) the B family. While Shuene was (00:27:05) devastated and disheartened by the (00:27:07) broken engagement, her uncle's family (00:27:09) coaxed her into signing a share transfer (00:27:11) agreement. (00:27:13) swindling away all the shares her (00:27:15) parents had left her. Yanimo witnessed (00:27:17) with his own eyes this woman who looked (00:27:19) exactly like Shin Bao being thoroughly (00:27:21) exploited by them, cheated out of all (00:27:24) her property, yet still foolishly (00:27:26) believing these so-called relatives had (00:27:28) her best interests at heart. He had (00:27:30) never seen anyone so stupid in his life. (00:27:32) But the ordeal wasn't over yet. When (00:27:34) disaster struck, the brainwashed Shu (00:27:37) Axian toiled tirelessly to serve her (00:27:40) uncle's family. getting only one meal a (00:27:43) day, leftovers from their table, living (00:27:45) in the worst room, and even risking her (00:27:47) life to scavenge for food outside. When (00:27:50) food ran out, her uncle's family (00:27:52) secretly conspired with the local (00:27:54) bullies to sell her to the beasts in the (00:27:56) neighborhood who sought women for their (00:27:57) pleasure. As she endured torment and (00:27:59) humiliation, her so-called family ate (00:28:02) the food bought with her suffering, and (00:28:04) lived on without a shred of guilt. (00:28:06) Although this woman wasn't Shin Bao, (00:28:09) seeing someone with Shin Ba<unk>s face (00:28:10) die so tragically stirred up anger in (00:28:12) Yan Mo<unk>s heart, making it unbearable (00:28:15) for him to accept. The scene before him (00:28:17) flickered, and Bingch<unk>s figure (00:28:19) appeared instead. Yan Mo was puzzled, (00:28:22) not understanding why he was seeing him. (00:28:24) It seemed this was after the apocalypse (00:28:26) had begun. Thanks to the B family, (00:28:28) Bhinchu was living quite comfortably in (00:28:30) some base, even having the leisure to (00:28:33) pursue women. When Yanmo saw Bai Jing (00:28:36) Chu take out the spatial jade pendant (00:28:38) Shinbao was currently using from his (00:28:40) home to give to that woman in an attempt (00:28:42) to please her, he finally understood why (00:28:44) he was seeing him. Yanimo watched as the (00:28:46) woman inadvertently activated her (00:28:48) spatial ability, thriving in the (00:28:50) apocalypse by relying on it. Strangely, (00:28:52) the woman's face was always veiled in a (00:28:55) thin mist, making her features (00:28:57) indistinct. When his own figure appeared (00:28:59) beside the woman in the scene, (00:29:01) everything went dark and the entire (00:29:03) vision abruptly ended. As for everything (00:29:06) that had appeared in the vision, Yanmo (00:29:08) had already formed a plan in his heart. (00:29:10) At first, he thought it was all a dream (00:29:12) born from his worries about Shin Bao (00:29:14) that led him to have this bizarre (00:29:16) fantasy. No matter how wild a dream may (00:29:18) be, it always draws upon the images (00:29:21) buried in one's subconscious to depict (00:29:23) the people in it. Yet many of the (00:29:25) figures in these scenes were ones he had (00:29:27) never even seen before. How could their (00:29:29) images (00:29:30) down to the smallest gestures be so (00:29:33) vividly complete? When the scene shifted (00:29:35) to Baing Chu, Yanmo confirmed his (00:29:38) suspicion. This was no dream at all. It (00:29:40) was likely a reality that had unfolded (00:29:42) in a parallel universe. Time has many (00:29:45) facets and often different choices (00:29:47) people make lead to different outcomes. (00:29:49) Steering the future in various (00:29:51) directions. that he could see these (00:29:52) visions was also a stroke of fate, just (00:29:55) like the apocalyptic dream Shin Bao had (00:29:57) back then. Perhaps it was precisely (00:30:00) because Shin Bao had that dream in this (00:30:02) timeline, realizing the wolves and (00:30:04) tigers surrounding her, that she avoided (00:30:06) the pitiful and tragic life of Shuin she (00:30:09) saw in that other timeline. Thinking of (00:30:11) the experiences of Shuin in that other (00:30:13) timeline, if they had truly happened to (00:30:16) Shin Bao, Yinma<unk>s heart couldn't (00:30:18) help but ache with pain and hatred. He (00:30:20) directly placed Shuakai<unk>s never met (00:30:22) uncle<unk>s family and the B family, (00:30:24) those profit-driven scoundrels on his (00:30:27) blacklist. (00:30:28) They'd better pray they die before (00:30:30) crossing his path, otherwise he'd make (00:30:33) them regret being alive in this world, (00:30:35) the targeted Shuang Jun<unk>s family, (00:30:37) along with Biangi, by Jang Chu, and (00:30:40) others suddenly shivered in their (00:30:42) sweltering rooms, feeling an (00:30:44) inexplicable chill down their spines. (00:30:46) Chapter 47 Supernatural Ability. After (00:30:50) three rounds of natural disasters and (00:30:52) time spent in shelters, not many people (00:30:54) remained in the residential area located (00:30:57) far from the city center. Staying in the (00:31:00) neighborhood was still safe before the (00:31:01) second wave of human awakenings began. (00:31:04) On the third morning of Shu Axan staying (00:31:06) home alone, Busiang was the first to (00:31:08) regain consciousness. By the afternoon, (00:31:11) Mui had also recovered from the fever (00:31:13) phase. Seeing both of them wake up (00:31:15) safely, Shu Axen felt half of her (00:31:18) worries ease, though she still didn't (00:31:20) know when Yanmo would wake up. (00:31:22) Originally, Shu Axen thought Yan Mo (00:31:25) would wake up by evening, but there was (00:31:27) no sign of him stirring. Still, she (00:31:30) wasn't overly anxious. In the later (00:31:32) stages of the apocalypse, statistics (00:31:34) showed that the longer the fever period (00:31:36) lasted, the more powerful the awakened (00:31:38) abilities would be. For most ordinary (00:31:41) ability users, the fever period (00:31:43) typically lasted one to two days and (00:31:45) sometimes even shorter. The three in (00:31:48) their household were far from ordinary, (00:31:50) counting from the night their fevers (00:31:51) began. Their fever periods lasted nearly (00:31:54) 3 days. On the morning of the fourth (00:31:56) day, Yan Mo<unk>s temperature finally (00:31:59) began to drop. Shuene stayed by the (00:32:01) bedside without leaving, wanting Yan Mo (00:32:04) to see her first thing upon waking. Awe. (00:32:07) Yanmo slowly opened his eyes and the (00:32:10) moment he adjusted to the light, he (00:32:12) immediately searched for Shu (00:32:13) Aakian<unk>s figure. Husband, you're (00:32:15) finally awake. Here, have some water (00:32:18) first. Shu Axen was the first to notice (00:32:20) Yan Mo<unk>s movement. She picked up the (00:32:23) water glass on the bedside table and (00:32:25) brought it to his lips. Yan Mo didn't (00:32:27) move. He stared intently at Shu Axan for (00:32:30) a few seconds, confirming that the (00:32:32) person before him was indeed his beloved (00:32:35) before finally letting out a slow sigh (00:32:37) of relief. In an instant, he pulled her (00:32:39) tightly into his embrace with an (00:32:41) unusually strong grip, as if he wished (00:32:43) he could meld her directly into his very (00:32:45) bones and blood. The scenes he had (00:32:47) witnessed while unconscious had left him (00:32:49) with an indescribable trace of fear. He (00:32:51) had been terrified that upon waking, the (00:32:53) Shu Axen he saw might not be his (00:32:56) beloved. It's okay. It's okay. Shin Bao. (00:33:00) Shin Bao. It's all right. I'm here. I'll (00:33:03) always be here. Shu Aen faintly sensed (00:33:05) that Yan Mo<unk>s current mood wasn't (00:33:07) quite right and hugged him back tightly. (00:33:09) Hearing the voices coming from (00:33:11) downstairs. Busyang and Muimai stood at (00:33:14) the doorway, watching the affectionate (00:33:16) scene between the young couple. Unsure (00:33:18) whether to enter or retreat, they (00:33:20) hesitated for a few seconds before (00:33:22) mustering the courage to step inside. (00:33:24) For some reason, they both felt as if (00:33:27) they were voluntarily shoving dog food (00:33:29) into their own mouths. Ahem. Ahem. You (00:33:32) two should tone it down a bit. There are (00:33:34) two living, breathing people standing (00:33:36) right here in the room. You can save the (00:33:38) cuddling for after we leave. 10 minutes (00:33:40) later, Busianguin risked his life to (00:33:42) speak up and interrupt the two who were (00:33:45) still locked in an embrace. Being (00:33:47) pointed out by Busianguin, Shu Axian (00:33:50) felt somewhat embarrassed and reached (00:33:51) out to push Yanmo. Yanim Mo who had (00:33:55) mostly calmed down touched Shuaken's (00:33:57) forehead. He had noticed earlier that (00:33:59) her body temperature seemed a bit high. (00:34:02) Axian bow. Are you entering your heat (00:34:04) cycle? Huh? I don't know. Am I? I just (00:34:07) feel a bit heavy-headed. With Yan Mo (00:34:09) safely awake. Shuaken's anxious heart (00:34:12) settled back into place as her mental (00:34:14) tension abruptly eased. The physical (00:34:17) discomfort she had been suppressing (00:34:18) began to surface. What? Sister-in-law is (00:34:21) running a fever, too. Then we<unk>ll (00:34:23) wait downstairs for you. You should take (00:34:26) care of her first. She's been running up (00:34:28) and down taking care of us these past (00:34:30) few days. It must have been exhausting (00:34:32) for her. Busyang and Muimay immediately (00:34:35) stood upon hearing this, not daring to (00:34:37) disturb Shuakai<unk>s rest. Having been (00:34:39) cared for by Shu Axen during their (00:34:41) fever, their respect and concern for her (00:34:44) deepened even further. Initially, during (00:34:46) the disaster, the group had become close (00:34:49) friends. due to their shared (00:34:50) circumstances and Yan Mo<unk>s (00:34:52) influence. But now they truly regarded (00:34:55) Shu Axai as one of their own, someone (00:34:58) they could entrust their lives to. This (00:35:00) is how relationships between people (00:35:01) work. Only sincerity can be get (00:35:04) sincerity. Yan Mo didn't let Shu Axan (00:35:06) lie directly on the bed. Instead, he (00:35:09) first replaced all the mattress, quilt, (00:35:11) and bedding set with new ones before (00:35:13) allowing her to rest. (00:35:15) The old ones had been soaked repeatedly (00:35:17) with sweat from her heat cycle, and (00:35:19) lying on them would definitely feel damp (00:35:21) and uncomfortable. Changing to fresh (00:35:23) ones would help Shinbau rest better. (00:35:25) After giving her fever reducing medicine (00:35:27) in advance, he finally let her lie down. (00:35:30) I'm fine. You should go take a shower (00:35:32) quickly. After sweating for 4 days, (00:35:35) you're starting to smell. The fever (00:35:37) wasn't too severe yet. Lying in bed, Shu (00:35:40) Axen still had the energy to tease Yan (00:35:43) Mo. All right. (00:35:45) I won't close the bathroom door. Just (00:35:47) call me if you need anything. The smell (00:35:49) and stickiness on his body made Yenma (00:35:51) equally disgusted with his current (00:35:53) state. After settling Shuene and (00:35:55) grabbing a change of clothes, he quickly (00:35:57) headed into the bathroom, listening to (00:35:59) the sound of running water from the (00:36:01) bathroom. Knowing Yenmma had safely (00:36:03) woken up, Shuene wasn't sure if it was (00:36:05) the fever reducing medicine taking (00:36:07) effect or if he was officially entering (00:36:09) his heat cycle. His eyelids grew heavier (00:36:12) and heavier until he could no longer (00:36:14) hold them up, gradually closing his eyes (00:36:16) and losing consciousness. Having not (00:36:18) bathed for several days, Yinma stayed in (00:36:21) the bathroom a bit longer than usual, (00:36:23) worried about Shuin's condition, he (00:36:25) stepped out with his hair still dripping (00:36:27) wet, not even bothering to dry it. (00:36:29) Seeing that Shuene had already fallen (00:36:31) asleep, he reached out to feel her (00:36:33) forehead temperature, which was (00:36:35) significantly higher than before he (00:36:37) entered. It seemed she had officially (00:36:39) entered the fever phase. After settling (00:36:41) Shuin, Yanmo went downstairs to meet (00:36:44) with Busyang and Mui Mai. When did you (00:36:47) both wake up? I woke up yesterday (00:36:48) afternoon and woke up yesterday morning. (00:36:51) Muimi saw Yanmo coming downstairs and (00:36:55) for the first time spoke up before (00:36:57) Busiang. It seemed that awakening his (00:36:59) supernatural ability had left him (00:37:01) particularly excited. And even after a (00:37:04) whole night, he still hadn't calmed (00:37:06) down. Brother Mo, what ability did you (00:37:09) awaken? Bushangwin<unk>s eyes were also (00:37:11) fixed intently on Yanim Mo, as if trying (00:37:14) to see a flower blooming on him. It (00:37:16) should be a mental type ability. Right (00:37:18) now, I can use my spiritual sense to (00:37:21) observe everything within a 50 m radius (00:37:23) centered on our building. If I focus in (00:37:25) one direction, the range can extend even (00:37:27) further. It can briefly hypnotize an (00:37:30) ordinary person for 3 minutes, read (00:37:32) their memories, or manipulate them for a (00:37:35) short period. So far, these are the only (00:37:38) uses I've figured out. I'll explore (00:37:40) other abilities slowly in the future. (00:37:42) While pouring water, Yan Mo introduced (00:37:44) his supernatural ability and its uses to (00:37:47) the two of them. When he turned around, (00:37:49) he saw their expressions frozen in (00:37:51) shock. What's wrong? Nothing. Just (00:37:53) feeling the vast disparity between (00:37:55) people in this world. Bashangs voice (00:37:57) sounded weak, as if he had been (00:37:59) thoroughly demoralized. (00:38:02) Just when we were excited about (00:38:03) awakening our supernatural abilities, (00:38:05) others had already figured out how to (00:38:07) use them. Thanks. I really feel the (00:38:09) pressure. I'm just a little cabbage. Not (00:38:12) only am I weak, I can't even roll up (00:38:14) like others. Chimi, what abilities did (00:38:16) you two awaken? Yan Mo ignored (00:38:19) Bangwin<unk>s usual dramatic antics, (00:38:21) skipping over him to directly ask Muimi, (00:38:24) I awakened wind-based abilities, and he (00:38:26) awakened fire-based ones. (00:38:29) Muimai wasn't one to beat around the (00:38:31) bush and answered straightforwardly. (00:38:33) Chapter 48. Practicing supernatural (00:38:35) abilities, Yi Yuan, who lived at the (00:38:38) other end of the neighborhood, also (00:38:40) successfully passed the fever period on (00:38:42) the afternoon of the third day. After (00:38:44) waking up, Yiuan felt extremely (00:38:46) comfortable with no other discomfort (00:38:48) except for the sticky sensation on his (00:38:50) body and the hunger pangs in his (00:38:52) stomach. Without rushing to do anything (00:38:54) else, Yi Yuan sat on the bed. Skillfully (00:38:58) circulating the newfound energy within (00:38:59) his body, he felt the familiar yet (00:39:02) unfamiliar energy fluctuations flowing (00:39:04) toward his right hand under his control. (00:39:06) A frost flower exuding a chilling aura (00:39:08) appeared at the tip of Yi Yuan<unk>s (00:39:10) right index finger. So my intuition in (00:39:12) my past life wasn't wrong. My true (00:39:15) ability is ice-based. Staring at this (00:39:17) frost flower, Yi Yuan<unk>s eyes reened (00:39:20) as she mentally added another mark to (00:39:22) the accounts of Du Honu and Wong Yaun in (00:39:25) her previous life. At the critical (00:39:27) moment of awakening her ability, Duh (00:39:29) Honu and Wong Yaun forcibly interrupted (00:39:32) her. As a result, the ability she (00:39:34) awakened was much weaker than that of (00:39:36) ordinary ability users. Not the (00:39:38) ice-based power of this lifetime, but (00:39:41) water-based instead. Under those (00:39:43) circumstances, surviving it all was a (00:39:45) stroke of luck amidst misfortune. Her (00:39:48) water-based abilities weren't strong, (00:39:50) and their effect on zombies was limited. (00:39:52) As the team support personnel, she (00:39:54) couldn't provide much water each day, (00:39:57) and the points she earned from missions (00:39:59) were always the lowest in the group. (00:40:01) Even so, whenever there was a chance, (00:40:03) she would follow the ability team out on (00:40:05) missions to earn points. The points she (00:40:07) earned alone supported three people with (00:40:09) most of them going to Du Honu and Wong (00:40:11) Yaun. Though she was the one earning the (00:40:14) points, she was the one who spent the (00:40:16) least. It wasn't that no kind-hearted (00:40:18) people had tried to warn her, telling (00:40:20) her that Du Honu and Wong Yaun were no (00:40:22) good. When others saw the two of them (00:40:25) sneaking around behind her back and (00:40:27) tried to advise her, she actually (00:40:29) suspected they were trying to drive a (00:40:30) wedge between them. At the time, she was (00:40:33) truly blinded by foolishness. Yiuan (00:40:35) would never forget the harm Du Honu and (00:40:38) Wong Yaun had caused her. Those two had (00:40:40) lived long enough. The next time they (00:40:42) met, it would be time to settle the (00:40:44) score. The frost between them (00:40:46) dissipated, and Yiuan got up to freshen (00:40:49) up before treating herself to a hearty (00:40:51) meal to soothe her growling stomach. (00:40:53) Yiuan was preparing to leave the (00:40:55) neighborhood. Tomorrow, the second round (00:40:57) of awakening would begin, and by then, (00:40:59) everyone who hadn't succeeded in the (00:41:01) first round would fall into a deep (00:41:03) slumber. With no one around, this was (00:41:05) the perfect opportunity. She needed to (00:41:07) seize the moment to gather a wave of (00:41:09) supplies into her space and fill it to (00:41:11) the brim. After her prolonged efforts, (00:41:14) the area of the bracelet space had (00:41:16) expanded by the size of four basketball (00:41:18) courts, compared to when she first (00:41:20) unlocked it. It was worth all the (00:41:22) effort. She had practically scoured (00:41:23) every antique street and jade shop in (00:41:25) city A. Not a single piece of jade that (00:41:28) caught Yi Yuans I was spared. She fed (00:41:30) them all to the bracelet space. She (00:41:32) didn't just strip the bamboo shoots from (00:41:34) the mountain. She stripped all the jade (00:41:36) from city. Well, I suppose you could (00:41:40) call that an unconventional way of (00:41:41) fitting in. This time when she left, she (00:41:44) wouldn't be coming back. After filling (00:41:46) her stomach, Yuan packed every useful (00:41:48) item in the room into her spatial (00:41:50) storage. She then organized the contents (00:41:52) of her spatial storage, maximizing the (00:41:55) use of every inch to free up as much (00:41:57) space as possible for supplies. Taking (00:41:59) advantage of the dark and windy night (00:42:01) when no one was paying attention, (00:42:04) Yuan quietly took out a small electric (00:42:06) scooter from her space, (00:42:09) mounted it, and left the neighborhood (00:42:10) without alerting anyone with the images (00:42:13) she had coincidentally seen during her (00:42:15) fever period. Yanim Mo had gained a (00:42:17) considerable understanding of her (00:42:18) awakened abilities in her spare time (00:42:21) while taking care of Shu Axen. She not (00:42:23) only continuously practiced and (00:42:25) familiarized herself with her psychic (00:42:27) abilities, but also guided and helped (00:42:29) Busiang and Muimai get accustomed to (00:42:31) their own abilities, (00:42:33) offering them some advice on how to use (00:42:35) their powers. Superpowers can be broadly (00:42:38) categorized into three main types. (00:42:40) Enhancement-based superpowers, natural (00:42:43) elemental superpowers, and special type (00:42:45) superpowers. Enhancement-based (00:42:47) superpowers, as the name suggests, (00:42:50) involve the strengthening of a specific (00:42:51) part of the body. Some people enhance (00:42:54) their ears, gaining the ability to hear (00:42:56) in all directions, while others enhance (00:42:58) their eyes, acquiring the power of (00:43:00) clairvoyance or becoming incredibly (00:43:02) strong. The most common and effective (00:43:05) superpowers in the post-apocalyptic (00:43:07) world are the five elemental types: (00:43:10) metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. In (00:43:13) addition to these, there are three other (00:43:15) variants: lightning, wind, and ice, (00:43:18) which also belong to the natural (00:43:20) elemental superpowers. Other peculiar (00:43:23) and diverse superpowers such as psychic (00:43:25) and spatial abilities are collectively (00:43:28) referred to as special type superpowers, (00:43:30) as the name implies. (00:43:32) The likelihood of awakening a (00:43:34) specialtype superpower is relatively (00:43:36) low. Busiang and Muimay awakened (00:43:39) wind-based and firebased abilities (00:43:41) respectively, both of which are among (00:43:43) the more offensive natural elemental (00:43:44) abilities. Wind-based ability users can (00:43:47) harness the wind elements present in the (00:43:49) air to attack while also using wind (00:43:51) elements to enhance their own speed. It (00:43:54) can be said that the movement speed of (00:43:55) wind-based ability users is undoubtedly (00:43:58) among the best of all ability users. (00:44:01) Fire-based ability users possess (00:44:03) exceptionally strong burst and damage in (00:44:05) single target attacks, and their area of (00:44:07) effect attacks are equally formidable. (00:44:10) The second wave of awakenings has (00:44:11) already begun with the vast majority of (00:44:13) people entering the fever period today (00:44:15) and falling into a deep sleep. (00:44:17) Unfortunately, some unlucky individuals (00:44:20) may enter the fever period suddenly (00:44:22) without enough time to find a safe place (00:44:24) to hide and collapse directly on the (00:44:26) roadside or in the wilderness. (00:44:29) The zombies wandering the streets show (00:44:31) no mercy. Driven solely by instinct to (00:44:34) track down these people by scent and (00:44:35) devour them piece by piece, the time for (00:44:38) the large-scale explosive emergence of (00:44:40) zombies is drawing near. Before Shushin (00:44:42) wakes up, they must gain a preliminary (00:44:44) grasp of their supernatural abilities to (00:44:47) avoid being flustered and clueless about (00:44:49) how to use them when facing the zombies (00:44:51) outside. Damn it. Damn it, Mucciimai. (00:44:54) Can't you control the direction of your (00:44:56) wind? You almost burned off my thick (00:44:59) hair. Busyanguin frantically patted at (00:45:01) his hair. The smell of burnt strands (00:45:03) still lingering in the air. Serves you (00:45:05) right for getting burnt. Showing off (00:45:07) like that. How dare you bring fire so (00:45:10) close to your own hair with your (00:45:11) fingers. Muchimai remained unmoved by (00:45:14) Bushangs accusations. You've you damn (00:45:17) you Mucciimai. Today I'll make sure you (00:45:20) taste my power. Busianguin touched the (00:45:22) patch of missing hair on his head. (00:45:24) Heartbroken and with a loud shout, (00:45:27) hurled a fireball at his opponent. (00:45:29) Muchimai dodged effortlessly, avoiding (00:45:32) the fireball attack, and retaliated by (00:45:34) throwing a wind blade in return. The two (00:45:37) fought back and forth, exchanging moves (00:45:39) while Yan Mo sat on the nearby sofa, (00:45:42) maintaining a psychic barrier to prevent (00:45:44) them from blasting a hole in the room. (00:45:46) From time to time, he pointed out their (00:45:48) flaws and weaknesses, urging them to (00:45:50) correct their mistakes. All three were (00:45:52) depleting their supernatural abilities (00:45:54) in different ways, while also trying to (00:45:57) figure out how to launch the most (00:45:59) effective attacks with the least energy. (00:46:01) After all, supernatural powers were not (00:46:04) inexhaustible against zombies. Every bit (00:46:07) of energy saved could mean an extra (00:46:08) sliver of survival advantage over (00:46:10) others. Chapter 49. I have a magic wand. (00:46:14) In the training room, everyone's gaze (00:46:16) was fixed on Shu Axen, watching her (00:46:18) intently. Sister-in-law, have you (00:46:21) awakened an ability? What is it? What is (00:46:23) it? Since waking up. Shu Axen had (00:46:27) remained tight-lipped about her ability (00:46:28) and seemed sullen. Everyone assumed she (00:46:31) hadn't awakened one and not wanting to (00:46:33) upset her further, avoided bringing it (00:46:35) up. Who would have thought that just as (00:46:37) they were practicing their abilities, (00:46:38) Shu Axian walked in and suddenly (00:46:40) announced she would tell them what her (00:46:42) ability was. Busyang and Muimai were (00:46:45) both somewhat surprised. While only Yan (00:46:47) Mo<unk>s expression showed no surprise (00:46:49) at all, just a faint curiosity. (00:46:52) If Shu Axai hadn't awakened an ability, (00:46:55) given her personality, she would have (00:46:57) definitely mentioned it on the spot and (00:46:58) wouldn't have kept silent about it, the (00:47:00) only possibility was that Shu Axai had (00:47:03) awakened an ability she felt too (00:47:04) embarrassed to talk about, and no one (00:47:06) knew exactly what it was. feud. Shu (00:47:09) Aakian took a deep breath and extended (00:47:11) her hand with Yanmo and the others (00:47:13) focusing their gaze on it. As the light (00:47:16) in Shuaken's hand faded, a magic wand (00:47:19) about 35 cm long appeared in her palm. (00:47:22) The wands body appeared to be made of a (00:47:24) translucent pink crystal with a (00:47:26) crescent-shaped half moon at the top and (00:47:28) an irregularly shaped crystal stone in (00:47:30) the middle. At the junction with the (00:47:32) wands body was a pair of wing-like (00:47:34) decorations, making it look very much (00:47:36) like a toy you'd buy for children under (00:47:38) five on the roadside. Ahem. Ahem. The (00:47:41) room erupted in waves of laughter. Even (00:47:44) Yan Mo couldn't help but curl the (00:47:46) corners of his lips. Laugh. Go ahead and (00:47:48) laugh. I knew you'd all crack up when (00:47:51) you saw it. Shuaken plopped onto the (00:47:54) sofa in defeat, completely giving up. (00:47:56) She had anticipated this scene long ago, (00:47:59) which was why she was unwilling to (00:48:00) reveal her supernatural ability. As soon (00:48:03) as Shuin finished speaking, Busiang in (00:48:05) the room burst into laughter, while Yan (00:48:08) Mo and Muimai also let out muffled (00:48:10) chuckles. No love left. Shuene was (00:48:13) utterly frustrated. The supernatural (00:48:15) ability she awakened didn't appear in (00:48:17) the original book at all. Though it (00:48:19) might have been because she hadn't (00:48:21) finished reading it, but she always had (00:48:23) this feeling. There was absolutely no (00:48:25) one in this world who shared the same (00:48:27) ability as her. It was because of her (00:48:29) existence that this power came into (00:48:31) being. Imagine this. In the bleak (00:48:33) apocalypse, you and your companions (00:48:35) encounter a horde of zombies and (00:48:37) everyone starts unleashing all kinds of (00:48:39) supernatural abilities. Meanwhile, she (00:48:42) whips out her magic wand and starts (00:48:44) waving it around. That image, that (00:48:46) scene, it's literally a massive social (00:48:49) disaster. I'm afraid others would (00:48:51) definitely think she's either out of her (00:48:53) mind or that her brain has been eaten by (00:48:55) zombies. She had once fantasized about (00:48:57) being a fairy, but that was all in her (00:48:59) childhood. What girl didn't have such (00:49:01) fantasies when she was little? There's (00:49:03) really no need to go to such lengths to (00:49:05) fulfill her fairy dream in this way. She (00:49:08) would never call herself a little fairy (00:49:10) again. Saying it too much would bring (00:49:12) retribution, Shin Bao. What exactly is (00:49:15) your special ability? Yanimo asked, his (00:49:18) voice still tinged with amusement. Then (00:49:20) I must explain it to you properly. Don't (00:49:22) judge it by its appearance. It's (00:49:24) incredibly useful. Mentioning the (00:49:26) abilities, Shuene perked up with (00:49:28) enthusiasm. It can release a restriction (00:49:30) circle and a protection circle. (00:49:32) Currently, I can only use the (00:49:35) restriction circle to immobilize someone (00:49:37) for 1 second or suppress an enemy's (00:49:39) attack for 10 seconds. During those 10 (00:49:41) seconds, the target speed, ability (00:49:44) strength, and other attributes are (00:49:45) reduced by 5%. The protection circle (00:49:48) manifests as a transparent sphere that (00:49:50) can conceal the presence of those (00:49:52) inside, making them undetectable to (00:49:54) zombies, and it can also block zombie (00:49:56) attacks. Wo, that ability sounds (00:49:59) ridiculously overpowered. (00:50:01) Busiang gasped in astonishment. Indeed, (00:50:05) it's extremely practical. Used well, it (00:50:07) can also achieve unexpected effects. (00:50:10) Muimi pondered seriously for a moment. (00:50:12) Yanmo rubbed the proudly raised head of (00:50:14) Shu Aai and praised. Shin Bao is (00:50:17) amazing. You've actually awakened such a (00:50:19) powerful ability. Sigh. It's just that I (00:50:22) have to use this magic wand to release (00:50:24) the ability for it to work. Shu Axai (00:50:27) glanced at the magic wand in her hand, (00:50:29) her proud mood faltering slightly as she (00:50:31) retracted the ability. Actually, it's (00:50:34) not so bad as long as it works. Who (00:50:37) cares what form it takes to release it? (00:50:39) It's perfect for misleading others and (00:50:41) making them let their guard down. The (00:50:43) world is vast and full of wonders. We (00:50:45) will encounter even more unimaginable (00:50:47) supernatural abilities in the future, so (00:50:50) we must mentally prepare ourselves in (00:50:52) advance. Yenmos spoke up to remind (00:50:54) everyone, successfully shifting their (00:50:56) focus. He had seen quite a few peculiar (00:50:59) abilities in his dreams, (00:51:01) so it was good to give them a heads up. (00:51:03) They spent another day resting and (00:51:05) regrouping in the residential area, (00:51:07) preparing to go out the next day to (00:51:09) practice killing zombies. Over the past (00:51:11) 2 days, quite a few zombies had appeared (00:51:13) around the outskirts of the residential (00:51:15) area. They wouldn't be staying in city A (00:51:17) for much longer. At most, another week (00:51:20) in the neighborhood, they have (00:51:21) consciously tidied up the things in the (00:51:23) rooms now, except for the three bedrooms (00:51:26) and the few rooms they frequently use. (00:51:29) Everything else has been stored away in (00:51:31) a comfortable space. Tomorrow they will (00:51:33) go out to kill zombies and along the way (00:51:36) check the situation outside before (00:51:38) deciding when to leave. The original (00:51:41) plan was to use the residential complex (00:51:43) as their temporary base during the (00:51:44) disaster period once the zombies (00:51:46) appeared. They would first head to city (00:51:49) C where the first safe base after the (00:51:51) zombie apocalypse would be established. (00:51:54) Another reason they chose city C is that (00:51:56) the surrounding area is rich in various (00:51:58) resources. There are many towns along (00:52:01) the way, and they don't plan to stay (00:52:03) idle during the journey. There is also (00:52:05) an apocalyptic safe base that requires (00:52:07) crystal cores for upgrades. Besides what (00:52:09) they need for their own upgrades, they (00:52:11) also have to supply this base, which is (00:52:14) truly no simple task. Before going to (00:52:16) bed, Shusheen lay on the bed, organizing (00:52:19) items in the space. During the disaster, (00:52:22) the resources they used up were merely (00:52:24) the tip of the iceberg compared to what (00:52:26) they had stockpiled before. They hardly (00:52:28) needed to compete with others to (00:52:30) scavenge the remaining supplies. (00:52:32) Focusing on killing zombies and (00:52:34) establishing their own base as soon as (00:52:36) possible was the real priority. They (00:52:38) moved the temporarily unused items to (00:52:40) the back corner. The specially modified (00:52:42) vehicle from before would soon be put to (00:52:44) use. So they moved it to the front. (00:52:46) specialized outdoor equipment, (00:52:48) compressed biscuits, (00:52:50) self-heating rice meals, self-heating (00:52:52) hot pots, energy bars, first aid kits, (00:52:56) and other commonly used items are all (00:52:58) stored in the RV and each backpack. They (00:53:00) have been moved to adjacent shelves for (00:53:02) her quick access. The second floor space (00:53:04) is divided by fences with each species (00:53:07) allocated its own area. Previously, they (00:53:10) were free range, which made it easy to (00:53:12) mistake one for another during searches. (00:53:15) Separating them eliminates this concern. (00:53:17) The White Tiger and Snow Wolf, still (00:53:19) dormant in the space, show no signs of (00:53:23) waking yet. Their size appears (00:53:25) significantly larger than the last time, (00:53:27) leaving Shu Axian curious about their (00:53:29) final form once fully awakened. As the (00:53:32) space beside her sank, Shu Axian (00:53:34) instinctively nestled into Yan Mo<unk>s (00:53:36) embrace, breathing in his familiar scent (00:53:38) as she drifted into sleep. Chapter 50. (00:53:41) That frail Habusian and Muimai. The next (00:53:44) morning when leaving home, Shuin (00:53:47) habitually checked the situation inside (00:53:49) her space and was surprised to find that (00:53:51) the white tiger and snow wolf, which had (00:53:53) been dormant the day before, had (00:53:55) awakened. After exiting the residential (00:53:57) area, she found an open space and (00:53:59) released the white tiger and snow wolf (00:54:01) from her space. The two had been (00:54:03) rampaging inside, terrifying the other (00:54:05) animals to the point where they trembled (00:54:07) and dared not move. Now, Shushi no (00:54:11) longer needed to use Yanimo as a cover (00:54:13) when employing her space in front of (00:54:15) Busiang and Mucciimai. After all this (00:54:18) time, if the two of them still couldn't (00:54:20) discern the trickery at play, they might (00:54:22) as well have wasted all these years, (00:54:24) knowing that Yan Mo<unk>s intention was (00:54:26) to protect Shu Axian, the two of them (00:54:28) were happy to play dumb, treating it as (00:54:30) a little secret everyone was aware of. (00:54:32) As soon as Bhu and Shu Lang were (00:54:34) released, they caught the familiar scent (00:54:36) and saw the familiar faces. Excited, (00:54:40) they rushed over to act spoiled as they (00:54:42) did when they were little. Completely (00:54:44) unaware that their size was no longer (00:54:46) the same as before. Standing almost as (00:54:48) tall as an off-road vehicle, their (00:54:50) massive heads leaned in for nuzzles and (00:54:52) rubs, directly knocking Busiang and (00:54:54) Muimai, who were completely unprepared (00:54:57) to the ground. Yanimo quickly pulled Shu (00:55:00) Axen back a big step just before Dubai (00:55:02) and Xiao<unk>s large heads came close, (00:55:05) avoiding the fate of landing on their (00:55:07) backsides. (00:55:08) After being nudged and toppled over, not (00:55:11) only were the humans dazed, but Bushangs (00:55:13) treading clouds and Muimai's chasing (00:55:15) wind were equally bewildered, each (00:55:17) exchanging confused glances with their (00:55:19) respective owners. After awakening, the (00:55:22) animals gained intelligence comparable (00:55:23) to that of a seven or 8-year-old child, (00:55:26) capable of forming their own thoughts (00:55:28) about certain matters. (00:55:30) The expressions of confusion on treading (00:55:32) clouds and chasing winds large faces (00:55:34) were even more pronounced than those of (00:55:35) Busiangwen and Muimi. They couldn't (00:55:38) understand why their gentle nudge had (00:55:40) caused their owners to fall over so (00:55:42) delicately. Sigh. Their owners were far (00:55:44) too fragile. From now on, they would (00:55:47) have to protect them diligently, bearing (00:55:49) burdens far too heavy for their tender (00:55:51) years. Busiang and Mui Mai silently got (00:55:55) up from the ground. If they knew they (00:55:58) had been labeled as frail, one wonders (00:56:00) if they would be on the verge of tears. (00:56:02) Originally, Dubai and Xiaoi, who hadn't (00:56:05) successfully snuggled with their owner, (00:56:08) were feeling quite agrieved. But upon (00:56:10) seeing those two seemingly taller human (00:56:12) four-legged creatures beside them topple (00:56:15) over after just a nudge, they (00:56:16) immediately understood. They couldn't (00:56:18) use the same strength as before and (00:56:20) needed to be gentler. Dubai and Xiao by (00:56:23) lowered their heads and leaned in. (00:56:25) Staying still as they waited for Yanmo (00:56:27) and Shu Aakan to approach them. Seeing (00:56:29) that their two companions had learned (00:56:31) their lesson, Yan Mo finally released (00:56:33) Shu Aakian, allowing her to throw (00:56:36) herself onto Xiao by for some (00:56:38) affectionate snuggling and nuzzling. Who (00:56:40) wouldn't love petting a big fluffy cat? (00:56:43) Yan Mo himself is quite reserved with (00:56:45) his emotions. And the white tiger he (00:56:47) raised is the same way. Yan Mo reached (00:56:50) out to stroke the white tiger's head and (00:56:51) gave it a gentle pat, leaving the tiger (00:56:54) thoroughly satisfied. The names Big (00:56:56) White and Little White clearly came from (00:56:59) Shu Axian. Yan Mo didn't say anything. (00:57:03) But Busyang and Muimay<unk>s expressions (00:57:05) were indescribable at the time, giving (00:57:07) them a new understanding of Shu (00:57:09) Axian<unk>s lack of naming skills. They (00:57:11) quickly settled on names for their own (00:57:13) white tiger and snowwolf. afraid that (00:57:15) even a second's delay would subject them (00:57:17) to Shuakai's naming torture, Shu Aaken (00:57:21) and the others were preparing to get in (00:57:22) the car and head to the city center to (00:57:24) kill zombies. Planning to return the (00:57:26) white tiger and snow wolf to the space. (00:57:30) But who would have thought the four of (00:57:31) them would refuse to go back, "Shia, (00:57:33) look at how big you are now. You won't (00:57:36) fit in the car, so be a good boy and go (00:57:38) back to your space." Okay. Shuaxian (00:57:41) gently comforted Shiao by using both (00:57:43) words and hand gestures to help him (00:57:45) understand that his current size (00:57:47) wouldn't allow him to enter the car. (00:57:48) Shiao by tilted his head and paused for (00:57:51) a long moment as if pondering Shu (00:57:53) Axai<unk>en's meaning. Meanwhile, Dubai (00:57:55) beside him quickly grasped the idea with (00:57:58) a snort. And to the astonishment of Shu (00:58:01) Axen and the others, he shrank his body (00:58:03) down to the size he was a few months (00:58:05) ago. The other three seeing this, (00:58:08) immediately understood and followed (00:58:10) suit, putting on an impromptu (00:58:12) demonstration of what could be called a (00:58:13) shrinking technique. This this they can (00:58:16) actually grow bigger or smaller, (00:58:18) changing their size at will. Humans are (00:58:20) inferior to animal series. Yan Mo also (00:58:24) raised his eyebrows in surprise, opened (00:58:26) the trunk to let them in, and the group (00:58:29) of people and animals headed toward the (00:58:31) city center within a 5 km radius of the (00:58:33) residential area. The zombies that (00:58:35) appeared were scattered in twos and (00:58:37) threes, all taken care of by Busianguin (00:58:40) alone. The zombies currently emerging (00:58:42) haven't been around for long, and their (00:58:44) brains haven't yet formed crystal cores. (00:58:46) Their movements are so sluggish, it's as (00:58:48) if someone pressed a zero 1x speed (00:58:51) button at this stage. As long as one can (00:58:54) overcome their fear of zombies, (00:58:57) it's relatively easy to escape from a (00:58:59) horde of them. Unfortunately, most (00:59:01) people are so terrified at the sight of (00:59:03) zombies that their legs give out, (00:59:05) leaving them unable to flee. They waste (00:59:07) their chance to escape and needlessly (00:59:09) lose their lives. The car had just (00:59:11) entered the inner ring of the city when (00:59:12) the number of zombies wandering on the (00:59:14) road noticeably increased. Yanimo parked (00:59:17) the car far, let the four in the trunk (00:59:20) out, and asked Shuene to store the car (00:59:22) back into the space. They didn't plan to (00:59:25) venture deep into the city center today. (00:59:28) They were here to practice their (00:59:29) abilities on the zombies, not to test (00:59:31) their survival skills under extreme (00:59:33) conditions, at least not yet. The number (00:59:36) of zombies in the outer area looked to (00:59:38) be around 200. Just at the edge of what (00:59:40) they could handle anymore, and they'd (00:59:42) have to rely on other methods, the team (00:59:44) divided their tasks efficiently. Shu (00:59:47) Axen's abilities lean toward support, (00:59:50) specializing in immobilizing zombies and (00:59:52) applying debuffs at opportune moments, (00:59:55) coordinating with Yen Mo and the other (00:59:57) two to efficiently eliminate the undead. (00:59:59) Chapter 51. Leaving city A. The city had (01:00:02) lost its former vibrancy ravaged by (01:00:04) three catastrophic disasters. Its once (01:00:07) neat and clean streets now lay in ruins. (01:00:10) The occasional discordanted howls of (01:00:12) zombies ranging from high to low made (01:00:15) the entire city appear desolate and (01:00:17) terrifying. (01:00:18) After spending several days honing their (01:00:20) skills by battling zombies around the (01:00:22) outskirts of city, Shu Axai, Busiangwen, (01:00:26) and Muima had gained a basic mastery of (01:00:28) their supernatural abilities. Yan Mo, (01:00:31) however, was on an entirely different (01:00:33) level compared to them. The three of (01:00:35) them had just gotten the hang of it when (01:00:37) Yan Mo<unk>s control over his abilities (01:00:39) had already advanced to the second (01:00:40) level, making him a second tier ability (01:00:43) user. On their last day in city, Shu (01:00:45) Axen and the others didn't go out. They (01:00:49) got up early to prepare various (01:00:50) ingredients, making food that would be (01:00:52) convenient to eat on the go. Rice balls, (01:00:55) bento boxes, steaks, pizza, porridge, (01:00:58) and more. Starting tomorrow, they would (01:01:01) be constantly on the move. Unlike in the (01:01:03) residential area, opportunities to cook (01:01:05) by themselves would be rare while (01:01:07) traveling. They prepared some easy to (01:01:09) eat meals themselves and stored them in (01:01:11) their space, ready to be taken out and (01:01:13) eaten whenever needed. There are still (01:01:16) stored cooked foods in the comfort (01:01:18) space, but most of them aren't very (01:01:20) suitable for eating outside. They (01:01:22) prepare simple meals and make thorough (01:01:23) preparations. Items like compressed (01:01:26) biscuits and self-heating rice are only (01:01:28) brought out when unavoidable in front of (01:01:29) others. If they have the means to eat (01:01:31) well, why should they settle for less? (01:01:34) The aromomas of various meals and dishes (01:01:36) lingered in the room all day, barely (01:01:38) dissipating by late night. The number of (01:01:40) rabbits, sheep, cows, (01:01:43) and pits in the comfort space decreased (01:01:45) by one/tenth. Every available space in (01:01:48) the house was filled with stoves and (01:01:49) pots, and 10 large stainless steel (01:01:52) buckets of rice were prepared in (01:01:53) advance. enough to last them for a (01:01:55) while. The next morning, Shuakian and (01:01:58) the others woke up early. Everyone took (01:02:00) a refreshing shower, enjoying one last (01:02:03) comfort before departure. Although they (01:02:05) could shower in the RV on the road, it (01:02:07) still wouldn't be as comfortable as (01:02:09) showering in a room. Today, they left (01:02:11) city A. Not taking the highway, but (01:02:14) choosing a route they would normally (01:02:16) take. Most people when fleeing in panic (01:02:19) would opt for what they perceive as the (01:02:20) fastest path. Driving onto the highway (01:02:23) in droves. With too many people, (01:02:25) accidents become more likely. Everyone (01:02:27) wants to rush ahead. Unwilling to yield. (01:02:30) Once two cars collide, the vehicles (01:02:32) following closely behind will inevitably (01:02:34) crash into them one after another, (01:02:36) creating a massive chain reaction (01:02:38) accident. The thick scent of blood holds (01:02:41) a fatal attraction for zombies. (01:02:43) Moreover, who can guarantee that among (01:02:46) those who escaped, there isn't a single (01:02:48) person who was scratched or bitten by a (01:02:50) zombie and chose to hide it? It wouldn't (01:02:52) take many, just one in a hundred, for (01:02:54) the situation to spiral out of control. (01:02:57) A chaotic highway with no villages ahead (01:02:59) or shops behind, not even a place to (01:03:02) take shelter. That's truly a situation (01:03:04) where cries to heaven go unheard and (01:03:06) pleas to earth go unanswered. (01:03:09) All four members of the Shuin group (01:03:11) could drive before setting off. They (01:03:14) agreed to take turns behind the wheel. (01:03:16) Initially, Shuin wasn't included in the (01:03:18) rotation, but she volunteered to share (01:03:20) the burden. If only the three of you (01:03:22) take turns driving, the mental toll on (01:03:25) you will be too heavy. If some emergency (01:03:27) arises, none of you will be in good (01:03:29) shape, and having me as backup in good (01:03:31) condition won't be of much use. I'll (01:03:34) take turns driving with you all. so each (01:03:37) of you can have longer rest periods and (01:03:39) recover more fully. Shuxen<unk>s (01:03:41) reasoning left them with no room for (01:03:43) argument. And it was finally decided (01:03:45) that each of them would drive for 2 (01:03:46) hours while Shuakai would drive for one (01:03:49) when it wasn't her turn to drive. (01:03:51) Shuakian, feeling drowsy, sat in the (01:03:54) back seat and dozed off, leaning against (01:03:56) Yan Mo<unk>s shoulder. She had stayed up (01:03:58) late cooking the night before and had (01:04:00) gotten to bed later than usual. The (01:04:02) gentle rocking of the car made her (01:04:04) overwhelmingly sleepy and surrounded by (01:04:07) people she trusted. Shu Aakan let (01:04:09) herself drift off to sleep. Listening to (01:04:11) the steady breathing beside him, Yanmo (01:04:14) picked up a thin blanket and gently (01:04:15) draped it over Shu Axian. They had set (01:04:18) off early in the morning, and there was (01:04:20) still a slight chill in the air. Yano (01:04:22) adjusted his sitting position to make (01:04:24) Shu Axian more comfortable, ensuring she (01:04:26) wouldn't wake up with a sore neck. The (01:04:28) extreme heat had passed, and (01:04:31) temperatures returned to normal. In this (01:04:33) post-apocalyptic world, there were no (01:04:35) longer spring or autumn. Only scorching (01:04:38) summers and freezing winters remained. (01:04:40) Winter would likely come again soon, (01:04:42) though not as abruptly as the extreme (01:04:44) cold. There would be a transitional (01:04:46) period this time. When Shu Axian woke (01:04:48) up, the unfamiliar surroundings left her (01:04:50) momentarily disoriented. Still groggy, (01:04:53) she mumbled, "Where are we? We're<unk> (01:04:56) almost at Hongjin Village. Were you (01:04:58) sleeping soundly? H Yan Mo<unk>s large (01:05:01) hand unconsciously caressed Shuene's (01:05:03) soft cheek. The touch was simply too (01:05:05) good to resist. Shusheen rubbed her eyes (01:05:08) to wake herself up. Mm. How long was I (01:05:10) asleep? About 3 hours. You woke up just (01:05:13) in time. Have some water to refresh (01:05:15) yourself. We<unk>ll find a good spot to (01:05:17) stop and rest soon and have lunch while (01:05:20) we're at it. Yan Mo picked up the (01:05:22) insulated cup beside him, unscrewed the (01:05:24) lid, and handed it to Shuene. Inside was (01:05:27) brown sugar, red date, and ginger tea (01:05:30) that he had prepared before they left, a (01:05:33) week before Shuene's period was due. (01:05:35) Yanmo would always switch her usual (01:05:37) drink to this. "Okay, thank you, Daddy." (01:05:40) Yen, Shuakai casually said as she took (01:05:43) the water cup handed to her by Yanmo. (01:05:45) Shu Aaken had grown accustomed to her (01:05:47) husband's meticulous care, sometimes (01:05:49) even playfully calling Yanmo, "Daddy (01:05:52) Yen." She still remembered the first (01:05:54) time Yan Mo heard this nickname from her (01:05:56) lips. His expression was priceless. He (01:05:59) grabbed her, held her tightly in his (01:06:01) arms, and kissed her for a long time (01:06:04) before finally letting her go. At the (01:06:06) time, she almost thought she might (01:06:08) become the first woman to faint from (01:06:10) lack of oxygen due to kissing. (01:06:12) Thankfully, it didn't actually happen. (01:06:14) Otherwise, she'd have yet another (01:06:16) embarrassing story to add to her list of (01:06:18) black marks in front of Yanmo. Later, as (01:06:20) she called out more frequently, Yan Moer (01:06:24) reacted as intensely as he did at the (01:06:26) beginning, as if he had grown accustomed (01:06:28) to it. If Shu Axen had known that Yanmo (01:06:31) would later pin her to the bed and make (01:06:33) her shout the last two words, she might (01:06:35) have regretted it to the point of tears. (01:06:37) Muchimai, who was driving in the front, (01:06:40) focused on the road and didn't feel (01:06:42) much, but Busiang in the passenger seat (01:06:44) had already gone numb with a blank (01:06:46) expression. The sweet atmosphere between (01:06:48) the young couple in the back seat spread (01:06:50) throughout the car. Completely (01:06:51) disregarding the feelings of this single (01:06:53) dog. It feels like a dog standing by the (01:06:57) roadside getting kicked by a passing (01:06:58) couple. He feels like he shouldn't be in (01:07:01) the car. He should be under it hugging (01:07:03) myself in grievance. JPG Shu Axian and (01:07:07) the group parked the car behind a (01:07:08) hillside with another mountain nearby. (01:07:11) They let the White Tiger and Snowwolf, (01:07:13) who had been cooped up in the car all (01:07:15) morning out to roam and hunt for food on (01:07:17) their own, packed up the off-road (01:07:19) vehicle and switched to the modified RV, (01:07:22) leaving city A in the morning. The roads (01:07:25) were crowded with people and vehicles, (01:07:27) narrow and in poor condition. Driving (01:07:29) the RV wasn't as convenient as the (01:07:31) off-road vehicle now that they've (01:07:33) changed vehicles. After lunch, Mucci Mai (01:07:36) and Biangwen, who had been driving all (01:07:38) morning, could finally lie down and rest (01:07:40) properly. Chapter 52, meeting the male (01:07:43) lead from the original novel. At 4 in (01:07:46) the afternoon, Shuin and the others (01:07:48) arrived at Hongjin Township, their first (01:07:50) destination. (01:07:52) Hongjin Township was home to a renowned (01:07:54) high-tech agricultural park from before (01:07:56) the apocalypse. The entire township (01:07:59) thrived by trial planting new (01:08:00) agricultural products developed by the (01:08:02) park, eventually becoming a model zone (01:08:04) for high-tech agriculture. Their target (01:08:07) was the core research data inside along (01:08:09) with various research equipment and (01:08:11) plant samples. Terrified by the (01:08:13) emergence of zombies, people fled in all (01:08:16) directions. with food and water becoming (01:08:18) the first things they chose to take with (01:08:20) them. The authorities would also (01:08:22) prioritize the protection of food and (01:08:24) ammunition while agricultural research (01:08:27) materials of immeasurable value to (01:08:29) humanity and scientific achievements (01:08:31) across various fields were instead (01:08:32) forgotten and left behind by the time (01:08:34) they realized that food was (01:08:36) indispensable for human survival and (01:08:38) that solving the apocalyptic crisis (01:08:40) required scientists, research equipment, (01:08:42) and research materials. (01:08:45) It was too late to salvage these (01:08:47) precious legacies. Most had already been (01:08:49) destroyed beyond recovery. What remained (01:08:51) was fragmented and scattered, making the (01:08:53) research efforts far more difficult than (01:08:55) before. Shu Aakan and the others didn't (01:08:58) drive their RV ostentatiously into (01:09:00) Hongjin Township. As there were (01:09:02) undoubtedly people who hadn't fled yet (01:09:04) or had no intention of leaving when (01:09:06) unsure of the specific situation, the (01:09:08) wisest approach is to conceal oneself. (01:09:12) Leaving the other party equally (01:09:13) uncertain of your true capabilities, (01:09:16) they drove all the way into Hongjin (01:09:17) Township, where the zombies along the (01:09:19) road were not densely packed. From the (01:09:22) damage marks on the roadside buildings (01:09:23) and the residual traces of various (01:09:25) supernatural abilities, it was clear (01:09:27) that some superhumans had cleared the (01:09:29) zombies from the road. Among the (01:09:31) residual supernatural energies along the (01:09:33) roadside were fluctuations of water, (01:09:36) earth, fire, and lightning abilities. (01:09:39) However, judging from the zombie corpses (01:09:42) with holes in their chests or heads, it (01:09:44) could be inferred that there was likely (01:09:45) also a body enhancing superhuman among (01:09:48) them. In the group ahead of us, there (01:09:50) are at least five superhumans. We don't (01:09:52) know if they've left yet, so everyone (01:09:54) should stay alert. Yanimo observed the (01:09:56) energy fluctuations along the way with (01:09:58) his mental power, his expression turning (01:10:01) serious as he warned. I wonder how many (01:10:03) people were in the team that passed (01:10:05) through Hong Gene village earlier. (01:10:07) There were actually five ability users (01:10:09) among them, one more than our group. (01:10:12) Busianguin couldn't resist commenting (01:10:14) while driving, "Five ability users. What (01:10:16) kinds of abilities do they have?" Shu (01:10:19) Axai was quite surprised. Thunder, (01:10:21) earth, water, fire, and physical (01:10:24) enhancement. Thunder, earth, water, (01:10:27) hiss. This combination, why does it (01:10:29) sound so familiar? Shu Aaken silently (01:10:32) repeated the abilities in her mind. A (01:10:34) flash of inspiration, something quickly (01:10:37) crossed her mind. This This Isn't this (01:10:40) the lineup of the male leads team from (01:10:42) the original book? It can't be such a (01:10:44) coincidence that the group walking ahead (01:10:46) of us is the male leads team from the (01:10:48) original book, right? No way. No way. I (01:10:52) hope not. Heaven help me. Shuin<unk>s (01:10:54) facial expressions were so incredibly (01:10:56) animated that Busianguin, watching (01:10:58) through the rear view mirror, couldn't (01:11:00) help but shake with laughter, causing (01:11:02) the car to swerve in an S shape. Focus (01:11:04) on driving. Do you want all three of us (01:11:07) to die with you, Mucci Mai? Sitting in (01:11:10) the passenger seat, spoke cooly. Keep (01:11:13) laughing and I'll give you extra (01:11:14) training tonight. Just you? From the (01:11:17) back seat, Yanimo added another blow. (01:11:19) The moment Busianguin heard the words (01:11:22) extra training, it was as if someone had (01:11:24) grabbed him by the scruff of his neck, (01:11:26) his smile vanished in an instant, (01:11:28) replaced by a look of deep resentment. (01:11:30) Yan Mo and the others encountered little (01:11:32) resistance from zombies on their way to (01:11:34) the high-tech agricultural park. Inside (01:11:37) the high-tech agricultural park, there (01:11:40) were only a few scattered zombies. It (01:11:42) seemed that during the disaster, most (01:11:44) people had been evacuated, leaving only (01:11:46) a handful behind to guard the place. (01:11:48) After dealing with the sparse zombies (01:11:50) inside, Shu Aakayen and the group made (01:11:53) their way to the center of the park (01:11:54) where they found the research institute. (01:11:56) The most crucial research was (01:11:58) underground. Shuene took out a generator (01:12:00) from her space and restored power to the (01:12:03) elevator leading below. The tasks of (01:12:06) cracking the elevator code and entering (01:12:07) the basement password were no longer her (01:12:10) responsibility, so she quietly stood by (01:12:12) as a mere tool. In about 10 minutes, (01:12:14) they successfully entered the core of (01:12:16) the underground research facility. (01:12:18) Perhaps because it was underground, all (01:12:20) the facilities and equipment inside were (01:12:22) remarkably well preserved with complete (01:12:24) documentation, and the plant samples and (01:12:27) seeds remained safe and intact. After (01:12:30) all, it was considered one of the top (01:12:32) high-tech agricultural parks in the (01:12:34) country, equipped with the most advanced (01:12:36) technology, abundant in both quantity (01:12:38) and variety. To save space, Shuaxan only (01:12:42) kept the three latest and best pieces of (01:12:44) each piece of equipment, storing data on (01:12:47) USB drives where possible and (01:12:48) transferring the rest to the space via (01:12:50) computer. It took a full 3 hours to (01:12:52) gather all the materials without missing (01:12:54) a single item, and that was with the (01:12:56) combined effort of all four of them. (01:12:59) Looking at the extra equipment and (01:13:01) materials now stored in the space, (01:13:03) Shuaken had only one thought. Research (01:13:05) really drains the brain. Simple brute (01:13:08) force physical labor suits me better. (01:13:10) They left the remaining equipment and (01:13:12) materials in the basement untouched, (01:13:14) keeping them as they were to leave (01:13:15) something for those who might come (01:13:16) looking later. The person behind, "Thank (01:13:19) you so much. At least you left some for (01:13:21) us." Shu Aan and the others decided to (01:13:25) find a place to stay overnight in (01:13:26) Hongene Township and continue their (01:13:28) journey tomorrow. After a whole day of (01:13:30) traveling, everyone was exhausted. (01:13:32) Nighttime was the peak activity period (01:13:34) for zombies, so they avoided traveling (01:13:37) at night whenever possible. To their (01:13:39) surprise, not long after they settled (01:13:41) in, the sound of a car parking outside (01:13:43) could be heard. It seemed someone else (01:13:45) had also chosen their resting spot. As (01:13:48) the group entered, Yanmo suddenly (01:13:51) positioned himself in front of Shu Axan, (01:13:53) his gaze fixed on the fire in front of (01:13:55) him. Not looking toward the door, Shaolu (01:13:58) noticed the car parked outside and knew (01:14:00) someone was inside. So, he wasn't the (01:14:02) least bit surprised when he saw Yan Mo (01:14:04) and the other three. He signaled his (01:14:06) teammates behind him to rest on the (01:14:08) opposite side from where Yanmo and his (01:14:10) group were, while he himself walked (01:14:12) toward them. Brothers, we're just (01:14:14) stopping here for the night to rest. It (01:14:17) won't<unk>t cause you any inconvenience, (01:14:18) so please do us this favor," Shaolu (01:14:21) said, stopping about 5 m away from Yanmo (01:14:24) and his group. "Suit yourself," Yanmo (01:14:27) glanced at Shaolu briefly before quickly (01:14:29) averting his gaze, not intending to (01:14:31) engage in further conversation. Having (01:14:33) received a response, Sholu turned and (01:14:36) left without hesitation. Before coming (01:14:38) over, he had already instructed his (01:14:40) teammates to pack up. It was clear he (01:14:42) was merely informing them with no real (01:14:45) intention of discussion. Though Yan Mo (01:14:48) didn't mind either way as long as they (01:14:50) didn't provoke his group, he wouldn't (01:14:52) interfere with where they chose to rest. (01:14:54) Brother Mo, what's going on? Busiang and (01:14:57) Mucci gathered around and asked in a low (01:14:59) voice. All five of them are ability (01:15:01) users. If I'm not mistaken, they're the (01:15:04) ones from the road during the day. Yan (01:15:06) Mo didn't finish his sentence, but they (01:15:08) all understood. Busianguen and Muiimai (01:15:11) were somewhat shocked. It was impossible (01:15:14) not to be surprised. In the apocalypse, (01:15:17) very few could successfully awaken their (01:15:19) abilities. For all four of them to have (01:15:21) awakened abilities was like hitting the (01:15:23) jackpot eight lifetimes over. They went (01:15:25) out several times to practice their (01:15:27) abilities, but never encountered other (01:15:29) ability users. Nor did they meet any on (01:15:31) their way here. Little did they expect (01:15:33) that their first discovery would be five (01:15:35) at once. The small pride, the little (01:15:38) sense of superiority, (01:15:40) and the feeling of being special that (01:15:42) had just begun to rise in their hearts (01:15:43) were completely extinguished when they (01:15:45) saw the traces by the roadside in the (01:15:47) afternoon. They still held on to a (01:15:49) sliver of hope, thinking that the other (01:15:51) side must have a large group to have (01:15:53) five ability users. But by evening, (01:15:56) reality had slapped them hard in the (01:15:58) face. Indeed, there's no such thing as a (01:16:01) slap in the face being too fast, only (01:16:03) faster. No such thing as too harsh, only (01:16:06) harsher. (01:16:08) Chapter 53. Roasted sweet potatoes with (01:16:11) leave note. In the dark hall, occasional (01:16:14) crack sounds came from the bonfire. (01:16:16) Sparks bursting from the tips of the (01:16:18) flames, casting flickering light on the (01:16:20) faces of a few people. The two teams (01:16:22) were separated by the entire hall, (01:16:24) ignoring each other as they rested and (01:16:26) regrouped. Shu Aan stared blankly at the (01:16:29) bonfire before her. Her premonition from (01:16:31) the day had come true. It really is the (01:16:33) original novel's male leads team. There (01:16:37) was no need for Shaolu to introduce (01:16:38) himself. The team's supernatural ability (01:16:41) configuration, the number of members, (01:16:43) and Shaolu<unk>s strikingly (01:16:45) protagonist-like appearance made it (01:16:47) obvious at a glance with so many (01:16:49) matching conditions coming together. It (01:16:51) was undoubtedly the original novel's (01:16:53) male lead and his team. No doubt about (01:16:55) it. Fortunately, the original novel was (01:16:58) a strong femaleled story, so running (01:17:01) into the male lead was safer than (01:17:02) encountering the female lead. Otherwise, (01:17:06) given the rule that being around the (01:17:07) protagonist inevitably attracts canon (01:17:09) fodder with a death wish and sudden (01:17:11) accidents, Shuakai would definitely (01:17:13) choose to steer clear. She certainly (01:17:15) didn't want to get involved in the (01:17:17) protagonist's troubles. Protagonists (01:17:19) have plot armor to survive, but she (01:17:21) didn't. The best course was to stay as (01:17:23) far away as possible. What's on your (01:17:25) mind, Shin Bao? You seem so lost in (01:17:28) thought. Yan Mo handed the ready to eat (01:17:31) self-heating rice to Shuakai. (01:17:34) I was wondering if this campfire could (01:17:36) be used to roast sweet potatoes, not (01:17:38) wanting to reveal that she recognized (01:17:39) the people over there. Shuakai voiced (01:17:42) the first thought that came to mind when (01:17:43) she saw the fire. Roasted sweet potatoes (01:17:46) should be fine. Just remember to flip (01:17:48) them. Do you want some? Yan Mo gave a (01:17:51) doting smile and lifted the lid of the (01:17:53) self-heating rice for Shu Axian. Aa just (01:17:56) a tiny bit. Shu Axian held up two (01:17:58) fingers to indicate a small distance. (01:18:01) Her eyes sparkling with longing. Then go (01:18:04) grab a few from the bag and I'll roast (01:18:06) them for you. Yan Mo whispered, leaning (01:18:08) close to Shu Xen's ear. You're the best, (01:18:11) Mua. She quickly planted a kiss on Yan (01:18:14) Mo<unk>'s face and then turned to run to (01:18:16) her backpack, using the backpack as (01:18:18) cover. Shuaken discreetly took out four (01:18:20) or five medium-sized sweet potatoes from (01:18:23) her space, making sure nothing seemed (01:18:25) unusual. After all, no one knew what (01:18:28) they had in their backpacks. (01:18:30) The five people on the other side were (01:18:32) also whispering about Shu Ain and her (01:18:34) group. Captain, "Any findings?" Lon Jing (01:18:37) Ming asked, glancing in their direction. (01:18:39) "The leader is the one sitting by the (01:18:41) fire, about 185 cm tall, wearing black (01:18:45) sportsware. I sense danger from him. (01:18:48) He's definitely not ordinary. The other (01:18:50) three are probably also superhumans, (01:18:52) though we don't know what their (01:18:53) abilities are. Just the fact that they (01:18:56) dare to travel in this apocalyptic world (01:18:58) with no fear at all proves they're (01:19:00) anything but simple. Tonight, we'll take (01:19:03) turns keeping watch. Stay sharp. After (01:19:06) listening to Shiaol<unk>s analysis, the (01:19:08) group nodded solemnly, reassessing the (01:19:10) level of threat posed by Shu Axen and (01:19:12) her companions. Shu Aakian and her group (01:19:15) didn't care how others perceived them. (01:19:17) They were each happily munching on (01:19:18) roasted sweet potatoes, savoring the (01:19:21) slightly scalding warmth without a (01:19:23) second thought. The warmth is the best (01:19:25) part of roasted sweet potatoes. When it (01:19:28) was time to sleep, Shuin and Yma shared (01:19:31) one tent, while Busyang and Muimai (01:19:33) shared another. Shuin first went to (01:19:35) Busyangs tent to release Tyian and (01:19:37) Juing, then returned to her own tent to (01:19:40) release Dubai and Xiaoa. Night watch was (01:19:42) left to the shrunken white tiger and (01:19:44) snow wolf, allowing them to sleep (01:19:46) soundly without worrying about their (01:19:48) surroundings, ensuring ample rest and (01:19:50) quality sleep. Seeing Shu Axen and the (01:19:54) others go straight into the tent to (01:19:55) sleep, the people on Shaol<unk>s side (01:19:58) were completely baffled. Are those (01:20:00) people really that lacking in vigilance? (01:20:02) Or do they just trust them that much? (01:20:04) They couldn't figure it out. But (01:20:06) Shaol<unk>s analysis and instincts had (01:20:08) never been wrong before. They had (01:20:10) absolute trust in Shaolu, but for the (01:20:12) moment, they were just stunned. Their (01:20:14) weariness hadn't lessened in the (01:20:16) slightest. P.S. Dear readers, I'd like (01:20:19) to ask for a short leave. I've been busy (01:20:22) with interviews recently and didn't (01:20:24) bring my laptop, so writing is a bit (01:20:26) inconvenient. Updates might be slightly (01:20:28) slower. Please forgive me. Thank you so (01:20:30) much. Chapter 54. The decision. The (01:20:33) night passed without incident. Early the (01:20:35) next morning, just as dawn was breaking, (01:20:38) Shaolu<unk>s group made the first move, (01:20:40) having received professional military (01:20:42) training. Shaolu and his team packed up (01:20:45) their belongings with quiet efficiency. (01:20:47) But Yan Mo still woke up the very second (01:20:50) they made any movement. The comfortable (01:20:52) figure in his arm seemed displeased with (01:20:54) the movement of the large pillow beside (01:20:56) her, mumbling a few sounds and shifting (01:20:58) slightly, burying her head deeper into (01:21:00) Yan Mo<unk>s embrace. Mm. Yan Mo let out (01:21:03) a muffled groan in a lowered voice and (01:21:05) gently patted Shuakai<unk>s little (01:21:07) bottom to make her settle down early in (01:21:09) the morning. The little girl sure knows (01:21:11) how to be a handful. The debt of (01:21:14) patience now will one day be repaid by (01:21:16) the little thing in his arms. Before (01:21:18) going to bed last night, Yanimo used his (01:21:21) psychic energy to envelop their tent (01:21:22) from the outside. If anyone tried to spy (01:21:25) on them with psychic energy, he would (01:21:27) sense it immediately, unilaterally (01:21:29) blocking any external attempts to peek (01:21:31) inside, calming down the morning's (01:21:33) natural reaction. Yanim Mo quietly (01:21:35) dressed and stepped out of the tent. (01:21:38) Ensuring his movements didn't disturb (01:21:40) the still sleeping Shu Axan in the (01:21:42) slightest, less than 10 minutes after (01:21:44) Yan Mo left, the person across had (01:21:46) already packed their belongings and (01:21:48) walked out. Within a minute, the sound (01:21:50) of a car starting and driving away could (01:21:52) be heard. Captain, we can't reach (01:21:54) headquarters now. Should we still (01:21:56) proceed with the original plan to head (01:21:57) to cityb? Jeang Cho asked, tilting his (01:22:01) head towards Shaolu beside him. Shaolu (01:22:03) didn't answer immediately. (01:22:06) After a few minutes of silent (01:22:07) contemplation, he slowly shook his head (01:22:09) and made his decision. I'm not going (01:22:11) anymore. Let's change course to City C. (01:22:14) In the later stages of the disaster, due (01:22:17) to disagreements among the upper (01:22:18) leadership and power struggles, their (01:22:20) direct leader at the time lost in a (01:22:22) silent battle for control, resulting in (01:22:24) the loss of their leadership and command (01:22:26) authority after being taken over by new (01:22:29) leadership. The tasks they were (01:22:31) subsequently assigned were clearly (01:22:33) inconsequential, having no impact on the (01:22:36) overall situation and no access to the (01:22:38) core operations. Their entire squad was (01:22:41) gradually marginalized. The special (01:22:43) forces team being gradually marginalized (01:22:45) is certainly not the only one. Their (01:22:47) situation is not unique. Although aware (01:22:49) of the circumstances, Shaolu knew his (01:22:52) teammates were holding back frustration (01:22:54) in their hearts. Just as he was (01:22:56) previously, (01:22:58) they still harbored some lingering trust (01:23:00) and reluctance toward the country and (01:23:01) the government. Despite dissatisfaction (01:23:03) with the assigned tasks, they had (01:23:05) accepted the deployment and followed (01:23:07) orders. Little did they expect the (01:23:09) situation could worsen further. The (01:23:11) government became completely (01:23:12) dysfunctional. Core leaders acted (01:23:14) independently. The military scattered (01:23:17) and everything fell into disarray. City (01:23:19) B is the center of political power. If (01:23:22) they return now, they will inevitably be (01:23:25) dragged into various power struggles, (01:23:27) tested and courted by different factions (01:23:29) with endless troubles coming their way. (01:23:31) That's not the life they want. Others in (01:23:33) the team have vaguely expressed their (01:23:35) reluctance to return, but have persisted (01:23:37) only out of consideration for his (01:23:39) stance. Now, for the sake of his own and (01:23:42) the entire team's future, Shaolu finally (01:23:45) severed the last trace of attachment to (01:23:47) the government in his heart and made the (01:23:48) final decision. Hearing Shaol<unk>s (01:23:51) decision, Jang Chio, Lon Jing Ming, Kuf (01:23:54) Guang, and Lihonging were both surprised (01:23:57) and relieved, a faint smile appearing on (01:23:59) their faces. (01:24:01) Clearly, they were very pleased with (01:24:03) their captain's decision. Back to (01:24:04) updating. Just a little for today, but (01:24:07) tomorrow I'll post three chapters. I (01:24:10) swear it'll be at least 6,000 words. (01:24:12) Chapter 55. The green hat. Shuakan (01:24:16) stepped out of the tent punctually at (01:24:18) 7:00, followed by two little tales. (01:24:20) Opposite Shaolu and his people had (01:24:23) already left, so Bhu and Shu Lang no (01:24:25) longer needed to hide in the tent or the (01:24:28) space when they came out. Now she took (01:24:30) out some stored meat from the space to (01:24:32) feed Bh who and Schwang to tide them (01:24:34) over. That's right, just to tide them (01:24:37) over. The four creatures appeared (01:24:38) smaller in size, but their appetites (01:24:41) hadn't diminished accordingly. Now, when (01:24:43) Shusheen feeds them meat, vegetables, or (01:24:46) fruits, it's more like serving them (01:24:48) appetizers or desserts, their main (01:24:50) sustenance still comes from their own (01:24:52) hunting. Each hunting trip they make can (01:24:54) sustain their bodily needs for about (01:24:56) half a month after feeding the four. (01:24:59) Shusheen washed her hands, took out (01:25:01) their breakfast from her space, and laid (01:25:03) it out on the table, a spread of (01:25:05) remarkable variety. Last night, there (01:25:08) were outsiders present, so they couldn't (01:25:10) eat too well without outsiders around. (01:25:12) Their meals were no different from (01:25:14) before the apocalypse, with no tasks or (01:25:16) other constraints weighing them down. (01:25:18) They had plenty of time. After leisurely (01:25:21) finishing breakfast, (01:25:23) they waited for Shuene to store (01:25:24) everything in her space before setting (01:25:26) off in the RV along the planned route. (01:25:28) Yi Yuan, who left the neighborhood (01:25:30) early, had the memories of her past life (01:25:33) as a reference, making her goals very (01:25:35) clear this time. Initially, Yi (01:25:37) Yuan<unk>s destination was city H. While (01:25:40) collecting undamaged supplies along the (01:25:42) way, she coincidentally encountered Du (01:25:44) Honu and Wong Yaun, who were being (01:25:46) chased by zombies and looked utterly (01:25:48) disheveled. Seeing Du Honu and Wong (01:25:51) Yaun, Yi Yuan was reminded of the (01:25:54) unpleasant events from her past life and (01:25:56) the good mood from finding supplies (01:25:58) instantly vanished. She had originally (01:26:00) planned to deal with them the next time (01:26:01) they met, but she didn't expect to run (01:26:03) into them so soon since they had crossed (01:26:06) paths. Yi Yuan decided to follow them (01:26:08) and take care of them. Duh Honu and Wong (01:26:10) Yain were fleeing among a group of about (01:26:12) 20 to 30 people with one or two (01:26:15) superpowered individuals protecting them (01:26:17) as they escaped from the shelter. Out of (01:26:19) the dozens who managed to escape the (01:26:21) shelter, aside from sheer luck, it was (01:26:24) thanks to two young men who suddenly (01:26:25) discovered they could summon water and (01:26:27) earth. The zombies behind them weren't (01:26:29) fast. But the terror they had witnessed (01:26:32) in the shelter, watching perfectly (01:26:34) healthy people turn into zombies on the (01:26:36) spot after being scratched or bitten, (01:26:38) filled them with such fear that they (01:26:40) didn't dare stop running. "Hurry, (01:26:42) there's a supermarket ahead. No sign of (01:26:44) zombies. Let's go in and rest." Someone (01:26:47) in the crowd shouted, and the dozens of (01:26:49) people rushed inside in a frenzy. The (01:26:51) last one and quickly pulled down the (01:26:53) shutter to keep the outmaneuvered (01:26:54) zombies from following. (01:26:56) Finally finding a place free of zombies, (01:26:59) the group collapsed onto the ground (01:27:01) without a care for appearances. Catching (01:27:03) their breath, Yi Yuan followed from a (01:27:05) safe distance, watching as Du Honu and (01:27:08) Wong Yaun, disheveled and haggarded, (01:27:10) fled in panic among the crowd. An (01:27:12) indescribable sense of satisfaction (01:27:14) welled up in her heart. Her previously (01:27:16) ruined mood began to lift slightly, (01:27:19) estimating the position. Yuan found a (01:27:21) spot where she could keep a clear eye on (01:27:23) every move Du Honu and Wong Yain made. (01:27:27) Having lived a second life, Yiuan (01:27:29) probably understood Du Honu and Wong (01:27:31) Yain better than they knew themselves in (01:27:33) situations like this. As soon as one of (01:27:36) them regained their composure and (01:27:37) realized the other could no longer (01:27:39) benefit them, they would start scheming (01:27:41) how to exploit each other to the fullest (01:27:43) for their own gain. So Yuan decided to (01:27:46) first enjoy the spectacle of a dog eat (01:27:48) dog fight before dealing with them. (01:27:51) Considering it a way to recycle their (01:27:52) worth and derive some emotional (01:27:54) satisfaction after tailing Du Honu and (01:27:57) Wong Yaun for just a few days, events (01:27:59) unfolded exactly as Yi Yuan had (01:28:01) anticipated. Regaining their composure (01:28:03) to face the zombie onslaught and (01:28:05) accepting the arrival of the apocalypse, (01:28:08) Du Honu and Wong Yaun began calculating (01:28:10) their own little schemes in their (01:28:12) hearts. (01:28:13) This group of people were barely (01:28:15) acquainted with each other, having only (01:28:17) coincidentally gathered while fleeing, (01:28:19) and they constantly faced the risk of (01:28:21) disintegration. During the escape, two (01:28:23) individuals who had displayed abilities (01:28:25) different from ordinary people naturally (01:28:27) became the de facto leaders among them. (01:28:29) Those two were not yet proficient in (01:28:31) controlling their suddenly acquired (01:28:33) special abilities, relying entirely on (01:28:35) vague instincts when using them. (01:28:37) However, those two individuals were (01:28:40) clearly aware of their differences from (01:28:42) others and temporarily enjoyed a level (01:28:44) of admiration and treatment that was (01:28:45) unattainable in peace time, which left (01:28:48) them somewhat intoxicated. If they were (01:28:50) truly asked to lead over 20 burdensome (01:28:52) individuals through the unpredictable (01:28:53) challenges of an apocalyptic world, they (01:28:56) would undoubtedly be unwilling. Their (01:28:58) remaining rationality made them cautious (01:29:00) when facing the overt and covert probing (01:29:02) from others, and they refrained from (01:29:05) making any promises that would ensure (01:29:07) their safety. The attitudes of the two (01:29:09) were clear to everyone, and Duh Honu and (01:29:11) Wong Yaun saw it just as clearly. Duh (01:29:14) Honu and Wong Yaun would definitely not (01:29:16) give up on these two currently (01:29:18) indispensable supporters. One of the two (01:29:20) ability users named Huangqing Hua cast a (01:29:23) strange glint in his eyes when looking (01:29:25) at the slightly more attractive women in (01:29:27) the group. It wasn't the usual leerous (01:29:29) gaze of someone coveting beauty, but (01:29:32) rather an indescribable feeling that (01:29:34) made those who noticed it extremely (01:29:35) uncomfortable. Wong Yaun noticed (01:29:37) Wongqing Hua<unk>s gaze lingering on her (01:29:39) for increasingly longer periods. The (01:29:41) initial disgust and fear she felt toward (01:29:44) his stare gradually doled into (01:29:45) indifference. No matter whose shadow she (01:29:48) hid behind, the person would always step (01:29:50) aside upon sensing Hongqing Hua<unk>s (01:29:52) gaze, leaving her exposed. Duh Honu (01:29:55) simply feigned blindness, pretending to (01:29:57) be completely unaware. (01:29:59) He showed no sense of responsibility (01:30:02) that as Wong Ya<unk>s nominal boyfriend, (01:30:04) he should step forward to protect her (01:30:06) when another man was staring at her so (01:30:08) blatantly in his presence, she shrank (01:30:10) into an unnoticed corner, playing deaf (01:30:12) and dumb. Wong Yain cursed Du Honchu (01:30:15) vehemently in her heart, but it did (01:30:17) nothing to change the situation. (01:30:19) Finally, she figured it out herself. (01:30:21) Hongqing Hua taking a liking to her (01:30:23) actually gave her a way to curry favor (01:30:25) with him. Using her own body to cozy up (01:30:28) to a superhuman, gaining his protection, (01:30:31) she could also leverage this status to (01:30:33) secure some benefits for herself. This (01:30:35) deal seemed to offer her even greater (01:30:37) advantages. Wong Yaun, without knowing (01:30:40) what she had imagined in her mind, took (01:30:42) the initiative one night to go upstairs (01:30:44) to the second floor where Hongqing Hua (01:30:46) and Hong Tao lived. She didn't come down (01:30:49) all night, and everyone had a clear idea (01:30:51) of what Wong Ya was up to. The gazes (01:30:54) directed at Duh Honu carried an (01:30:56) indescribable meaning, and some people (01:30:58) occasionally glanced at his head, making (01:31:00) him feel both furious and helpless, (01:31:02) unable to do anything about it. Chapter (01:31:05) 56. starting a new life. Since that (01:31:08) night, Wong Yain successfully became (01:31:10) Hongqing Wa<unk>s woman without having (01:31:12) to lift a finger. She had come to him (01:31:14) willingly. Huang Ching Wua was quite (01:31:17) satisfied with Wong Ya<unk>s compliance (01:31:20) until he found another woman who better (01:31:21) suited his tastes. He didn't mind (01:31:23) offering her some protection. Duh (01:31:25) Honu<unk>s expression was not good. Oh (01:31:28) no, to be precise. Ever since Wong Ya (01:31:31) left him and openly threw herself into (01:31:32) another man's arms, it was destined that (01:31:35) his expression wouldn't be good. To say (01:31:37) that Du Honu had any real feelings for (01:31:39) Wong Yaun would be complete nonsense. (01:31:42) His bad expression was simply because he (01:31:44) felt his pride had been wounded, (01:31:46) restrained by Huang Ching Ha<unk>s (01:31:48) supernatural abilities, and unable to (01:31:50) voice his anger. Duh Honu felt utterly (01:31:52) suffocated every day. Finally, he seized (01:31:55) an opportunity when Hongqing Hua went (01:31:57) out to find food. He dragged Wong Yaian (01:32:00) away to a secluded spot, then abruptly (01:32:02) released her hand. "Duh Honu, what are (01:32:05) you doing?" Wong Yain rubbed the spot (01:32:07) where he had gripped her tightly. "You (01:32:09) ask me what I'm doing. I should be (01:32:12) asking you what you mean by all this. (01:32:14) How did I never realize you were such a (01:32:16) fickle woman? One day you're clinging to (01:32:18) my arms, sweetly, calling me brother (01:32:20) Sue, and the next you're climbing into (01:32:22) someone else's bed. It makes me sick." (01:32:24) Duh Honu<unk>s words struck a nerve in (01:32:26) Wong Yaun, and her emotions flared up (01:32:28) instantly as she looked at the man (01:32:30) before her with a mocking gaze. (01:32:32) Disgusting. Me, Duh Honchu, how dare you (01:32:35) say that? Weren't you the one who (01:32:37) recommended me to Hongqing Wa? And now (01:32:40) you're acting all righteous here. What's (01:32:42) the matter? Did you finally realize how (01:32:44) ugly that green hat you put on yourself (01:32:46) looks? Ha, you call me disgusting. Look (01:32:49) at yourself when you secretly got (01:32:51) involved with me behind Yuan's back. Why (01:32:53) didn't you feel disgusted then? Can't (01:32:55) even protect your own woman. Duh honchu, (01:32:58) you're nothing but a useless waste. You (01:33:00) You shameless [ __ ] I'll teach you a (01:33:02) lesson today. Wong Ya<unk>s words tore (01:33:05) off the last shred of Du Honu<unk>s (01:33:07) pretense. (01:33:08) Enraged and humiliated, Du Honu<unk>s (01:33:11) eyes turned red as he raised his hand (01:33:13) and slapped Wong Ya<unk> hard across the (01:33:15) face. The force of the slap was so great (01:33:18) that it split the corner of Wong (01:33:19) Ya<unk>s mouth, causing blood to flow (01:33:22) instantly. Her body swayed unsteadily (01:33:24) before she collapsed to the ground. (01:33:26) Caught off guard by Du Honu<unk>s sudden (01:33:28) violence. Wong Yain fell. Only when she (01:33:31) touched her bleeding lip and saw the (01:33:33) blood on her hand did she react. Letting (01:33:36) out a scream as she lunged at Duh Honchu (01:33:38) with a desperate life or death ferocity. (01:33:41) Driven to the brink, Wong Yaun clawed (01:33:43) fiercely at Du Honu<unk>s face, leaving (01:33:45) deep scratches, then grabbed his hair (01:33:48) with such force that even a grown man (01:33:49) like Duh Honu couldn't break free from (01:33:51) her grip. Hiding in the shadows, Yi Yuan (01:33:54) watched the entertaining spectacle of a (01:33:56) dog eat dog fight, smacking her lips in (01:33:59) satisfaction, (01:34:00) she could hardly resist clapping for the (01:34:02) two of them to express her delight. (01:34:04) After all, it wasn't every day she (01:34:06) wasted 5 days tailing them for such a (01:34:09) payoff. And so she did just that. Bravo, (01:34:12) bravo. How could such a thrilling (01:34:14) performance go without an audience? Let (01:34:16) me start by giving you both a round of (01:34:18) applause, clapping as she stepped out of (01:34:20) the darkness. Yuan stopped before Du (01:34:23) Honu and Wong Yaun. Looking down at the (01:34:25) two of them as they wrestled on the (01:34:27) ground. Startled by the sudden sight of (01:34:30) Yiuan, Du Honu and Wong Yaun were both (01:34:33) taken aback. They hadn't forgotten how (01:34:35) they had previously hired people to (01:34:37) trouble Yi Yuan. Nor had they forgotten (01:34:39) that Yi Yuan had changed from how she (01:34:41) used to be. Yi, Yi Yuan, why are you (01:34:44) here? Wong Yaun, bolstered by the (01:34:46) thought of now having a superhuman ally, (01:34:48) mustered some courage, swallowing hard (01:34:50) to ease the dryness in her throat. Why (01:34:53) I'm here isn't what you should be (01:34:54) worrying about right now. What you (01:34:57) should be concerned with is how to avoid (01:34:58) my retaliation later. Yuan, you've (01:35:01) Please let me go. I know you still love (01:35:04) me in your heart. I promise I'll only (01:35:06) love you from now on. If you let me go, (01:35:08) I swear I'll be devoted to you alone and (01:35:11) never betray you. Slap. Hearing that (01:35:13) Yuan had truly come for revenge. Duh (01:35:16) Honu<unk>s pupils constricted, (01:35:17) remembering how Yi Yuan had once been (01:35:19) utterly devoted to him, he felt a (01:35:21) glimmer of hope and shamelessly begged (01:35:23) for mercy. (01:35:25) Du Honu<unk>s words only made Yi Yuan (01:35:28) scoff in amusement. Do they really think (01:35:30) she's some kind of pushover? Listening (01:35:32) to the please of the two, Yi Yuan (01:35:34) suddenly felt it was pointless. Not (01:35:36) wanting to waste any more time on Du (01:35:38) Honu and Wong Yaun, she used her powers (01:35:41) to freeze their mouths shut, tied them (01:35:43) up, and dragged them toward the spot she (01:35:45) had chosen. In her past life, she had (01:35:48) been pushed into a horde of zombies by (01:35:49) the two of them, torn apart and devoured (01:35:52) by countless undead. This time she would (01:35:55) let them experience the same fate. Bound (01:35:58) hand and foot, Du Honu and Wong Yaun (01:36:00) were powerless to resist. They watched (01:36:03) as Yi Yuan took a knife and carved (01:36:04) wounds of varying depths into their (01:36:06) bodies. The searing pain making their (01:36:08) eyes widen in terror. Yiuan hung the two (01:36:11) individuals outside a two-story (01:36:13) building, their bleeding wounds serving (01:36:15) as the most lethal attraction for the (01:36:16) zombies. Before long, zombies from (01:36:19) several nearby streets were all drawn (01:36:21) over. Gathering beneath Du Honu and Wong (01:36:24) Yaun, snarling and stretching their arms (01:36:27) upward, desperate to reach the source of (01:36:29) their allure, Yi Yuan<unk>s method of (01:36:31) inflicting wounds was highly precise, (01:36:34) ensuring enough blood flowed to attract (01:36:36) the zombies while keeping the two fully (01:36:37) conscious to witness everything unfold, (01:36:40) forcing Duh Honu and Wong Yaun to watch (01:36:42) as the zombies gradually gathered, (01:36:44) inched closer, and ultimately devoured (01:36:47) them was undoubtedly the most fitting (01:36:48) revenge. (01:36:50) Yuan moved to a more distant location (01:36:52) before the zombies gathered in large (01:36:54) numbers, ensuring they wouldn't discover (01:36:56) her. Witnessing Du Honu and Wong Ya (01:36:59) being devoured by zombies until there (01:37:01) was no trace left, Yi Yuan felt the (01:37:03) hatred that had weighed on her heart (01:37:05) since her rebirth dissipate, leaving her (01:37:07) feeling much lighter. With this matter (01:37:09) concluded, it was as if she had (01:37:11) completely bid farewell to her former (01:37:13) self. A new life still awaited her, and (01:37:16) she was determined to carve out her own (01:37:18) path in this apocalyptic world.